Thomas and Friends “Steam Team Station”

Several weeks ago, we received a neat game/iPad app combo from Duo games.  It’s the Thomas and Friends “Steam Team Station” game.

The game box includes the activity center (seen above), along with the game cards.  It is compatible with all versions of the iPad.  You simply place your iPad into the activity center, download the free app, and you’re ready to play. 

There are 3 games to choose from – the first 2 are both free with the app download – the 3rd requires an additional purchase to play. 

The game comes with a package of AA batteries to get your started (these can easily be replaced).  It’s simply and quick to set up; so anxious kids can start playing almost immediately. 

While this game seems more geared toward preschool aged children, I asked my son Ian (age 6) to help me demonstrate:

This is a cute game and I will be passing my copy along to my 2-year-old nephew. However, if I had purchased this myself, I would be a bit disappointed. At a cost of almost $40 (at Amazon.com), I would have been very upset to discover that I had to pay extra for the third game app (that seems inappropriate to me). Also, as previously stated, this game should be marked for preschoolers. Once a child can read even the littlest bit, this game is below them.

If you have a little one who loves using the iPad and you’d like something “different” (rather than just tapping the screen), this might be just the game you’re looking for.  In addition to inserting cards into the system, this game also encourages some exercise!

NOTE: I received the above game for free in exchange for my posting about it on my blog.  I was not obligated to write a positive review.

The BIC® 4-color pen

CONFESSION TIME: I’m a color-coder and I pretty much always have been.  As a little girl, I had a strong fascination for crayons and the 64-box was a must!  As I got older, my fascination extended to things like markers and colored pencils.  Now, as an adult who works from home and homeschools my kids, I have a variety of colored pens, highlighters, and Sharpies adorning my desk space.  If you don’t believe me, here’s proof:

By nature, I’m an organized person – in high school I was voted the person with the neatest locker!  And, when it comes to paperwork, I’m an organizational freak! 

One of my favorite things to color code are my schedules and my calendars.  (Yes, that is plural!)  Here is the posting schedule for Homeschool Mosaics that hangs at my desk:

And here is the wipe-off calendar that hangs beside my desk:

As you can tell, I like color!  Not only does it make me happy, but it helps me to feel more organized.  And, at first glance at either of these calendars, I automatically know what I need to do that day, based on the colors. 

So, when I had the opportunity to test and review the Bic® 4-color pen, I jumped at the chance.  See, there’s a back-story here . . .

When I was a little girl, my mom was in the nursing profession.  And, she had this very pen!  Every chance I got, I snuck that thing out of her pen holder and used it!  I’m guessing she must have used it for marking nursing charts, etc.  But, to me, that pen was a little piece of happiness!  I mean, seriously, 4 colors in one pen! 

My mom’s pen looked just like this one:

Now, here is it, 30+ years later, and I have a pen just like that fascinating pen that my mom had!  And it’s just as wonderful as I remembered. 

And I used it to color code my life planner:

I’m not sure if you can see it well enough – but red is for Brian’s reffing schedule, green is my work schedule, blue is for everything that I need to taxi the kids to, and black is for the extra fun stuff.

And, do you want to know the neatest part?  I received an extra pen to give away to one of my readers or friends.  It disappeared from my desk the first day.  Why?  Because apparently I’ve raised another color-coding freak like me – my daughter Ashley swiped it. 

I saw her using it to color-code her notes at church on Sunday!  I leaned over and whispered in her ear, “Did you take my pen?”  She replied, with a sly little  grin on her face, “Didn’t you have two?!”

And this, my friends, is what I hope you learn from this post:

• Color-coding rocks!
• The Bic® 4-color pen is a classic
• You need one for yourself!

NOTE: I received the pen mentioned above for free as part of a Smiley 360 Blogger Mission.  I only share about products that I have used, believe in, and feel would benefit my readers.

Esio Hot & Cold Beverage Dispenser

Recently, my family was introduced to a new kind of drink machine – the Esio Hot & Cold Beverage Dispenser.  We own a SodaStream, which the kids just love; and I’ve been eyeing up the single serve coffee machines for quite awhile.  So, we were all excited to see what this new drink machine would be like. 

We received the machine a few weeks ago, so we’ve been trying it out as a family before sharing it at our “Drinks on Us” party.  We were surprised by the size of the machine – it’s actually quite larger.  We have it sitting beside our microwave and the Esio is actually taller than the microwave. While not quite as wide as our microwave, it’s longer from front to back also. 

We received a variety of drink mixes to try.  I was actually surprised with the variety of drinks that are available.  The kids have really been enjoying the cold beverages; but I would have preferred a larger selection of hot drink mixes (more coffees, hot teas, hot chocolate, and hot cider). 

I was so impressed with how easy this machine is to operate.  You simply fill it with water and the machine runs to keep the water cold (so you can also use it to dispense just cold water, if you like – since we don’t have a water dispenser on our refrigerator, this is a plus!)  The machine also heats the water – which, in addition to the coffee drinks, is also great for making instant oatmeal, tea with teabags, etc.

Each multi-serve e-pack will make up to 14 8-oz. drinks.  And the cool thing is that you can change them out between every drink, without having to worry about the flavors mixing, etc. 

In order to demonstrate how simple the Esio is to operate, I thought I’d have my 6-year-old son show you:

We thought it would be the perfect opportunity to give it a good test run at my family’s Christmas Eve gathering.  My parents host this event each year.  There were 9 adults and 7 children in attendance (ranging in age from 2-12). 

Since we had already used up several of the e-packs, we were happy to find out that they are available to purchase at Wal-mart.  Brian headed out one evening and stocked up so we’d have plenty to share at the party!  Here are a few pictures of my 12-year-old daughter enjoying the ease of a personalized drink:

So what are our thoughts? 

• The kids love the drink mixes. 
• I wish for a few more hot drink choices.
• The machine is larger than I’d have liked for in-home use (seems more appropriate for an office beverage machine).
• I love that the drink pouches are available locally at Wal-mart.
• The machine is heavy and bulky to move (especially when it still has water in it!)
• I love the ease of use – especially for kids.
• I think it’s great that you can swap from one drink mix to another without having to worry about washing the machine between flavors, etc.
• I am very impressed with the “strength meter” – a dial that you can use to adjust the strength of the drink, to taste.
• All of the drinks (with the exception of the coffee) are ones that I’m ok with serving my children.  They aren’t full of sugar and they don’t contain aspartame (which my oldest daughter is allergic too).
• It’s great for entertaining because everyone can drink exactly what they like, in the strength they like. 

While I probably wouldn’t go out and buy one – simply for the size alone – I would recommend it, especially if you have a large home with plenty of counter space, and are looking for a drink machine that the whole family can use. 

Do you have an Esio machine?  What are your thoughts?

NOTE: I received the above-mentioned product for free from Esio and BSM Media, in exchange for my personal use and posting about it on my blog.  I was not obligated to write a positive post, I only share products that I have used and believe would be of benefit to my readers, and I was not compensated in any other way.

Just Dance Disney

Thank you to Ubisoft for sponsoring this post. Please click here to learn more about Ubisoft. I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective. #UbiChamps #JDDisney

Last week, we received a fun surprise in the mail – the Just Dance Disney Wii game!  Previously, we had tried the ABBA version of Just Dance.  We had so much fun with that one that we knew we just HAD to have the Disney version, since we’re all such huge Disney fans! 

The game did not disappoint!  We’ve been having so much fun playing it this week.  The kids enjoy it, but it seems like I am the one who always says “hey, let’s dance!” 

There are a few different modes of play that you can choose from. 

First, you need to select your song.  You can choose from a playlist, from the song list itself, or (if you’re feeling an overabundance of energy) just go for the non-stop shuffle!  So far, we’ve always opted to choose our own song from the Songs heading.

There is a nice selection of songs from a wide variety of Disney movies and shows.  There are oldies – like The Bare Necessities from Jungle Book, right on up to songs from current Disney Channel favorites, like Good Luck Charlie.  We’ve tried most of them now and they’re all quite fun and a great work-out.  I have to confess that I’m not a huge fan of exercise – but playing is a great way to “sneak” some exercise in!

One of my favorites to do is this one:

In addition to regular dance mode, there are also some other options like “bubble pop” and “freeze & shake” – both of these are the regular dances with extra challenges thrown in (for more fun and more points). 

While Ian can beat us all at Disney Sing-It, so far I’ve been kicking his butt at Just Dance Disney – so, yes, I’m pretty excited about that!

This game would make an excellent Christmas gift for any Just Dance or Disney fan in your family!  Up to 4 players can dance at the same time (but you do need some room to spread out).  You can find Just Dance Disney at many stores and various online retailers – my favorite is Amazon.com (affiliate link).

Meet Master Moves Mickey!

Fisher-Price has long been a go-to toy manufacturer for our family.  Ashley’s 19 now, but her first Christmas (at just one month old), she received a Fisher-Price tape player to attach to her crib – and the following year was filled with LOTS of Little People!  And I still remember playing with my own Little People, many years ago! 

So, when we were given the opportunity to try a new toy from Fisher-Price, this one with a Disney twist (another favorite around here), we were thrilled!  Enter Master Moves Mickey! 

When Master Moves Mickey (otherwise known as “M3”) arrived, it was like Christmas at our house!  Ian and I couldn’t wait to get him out of the box and see what he could do.  We played and danced with him and then he took up residence on my desk (because he’s just way too cute to throw in the toybox!) 

In addition to Mickey, we also received 4 M3 t-shirts and 4 little towels (to wipe the sweat from your brown after all that dancing!)  Since Ashley is a nanny, she thought it would be fun to take both Ian and Mickey to work with her and have a Master Moves Mickey Party with the kids.  THEY LOVED IT! 

They started out their party by making refreshments together.

Then, they got down to business (dance business, that is!)

If you have busy little ones in your life, Master Moves Mickey would make a great Christmas gift this year!  And, dare I say it?  He’d also make a great gift for that Disney Lover in your life too. Yes, I admit, even if I didn’t have kids, I’d get a kick out of this little guy.  His dance moves seriously make me smile! 

Master Moves Mickey can be purchased directly from Fisher-Price and is also available at your local department and toy stores.  Currently, I’ve found the best price to be at Amazon.com (with FREE Super-Saver Shipping!) 

What do you think?  He looks pretty cute, huh?  Will your kids find M3 under the Christmas tree this year?

 

SPECIAL THANKS to Ashley, Ian, and the Three E’s for enjoying Master Moves Mickey for the sake of this post! 

NOTE: I received Master Moves Mickey for free with the hopes that I would share him with others and post about him on my blog.  I was not obligated to post a positive review.  This post contains an affiliate link.

Mary Kay® NouriShine Plus™ Lip Gloss

OK, I’m just going to say it . . . I’m addicted to lip balm.  In fact, I’m so addicted that, last year at BJ’s, I purchased the HUGE packages of 2 of the major brands.  I have a tube at my desk and in my purse at all times.  Oh, and in the van too.  Quite often, there’s also a tube in my pocket!  I know it’s not a healthy addiction; but, quite frankly, I don’t care. 

I’m not a fancy girl.  Lipstick isn’t my thing.  It’s too heavy.  I do own a few tubes of lipstick; but I really only wear it on VERY special occasions.  My favorite shade is actually one that I got from Mary Kay®. 

So, when I was given the opportunity to review some of Mary Kay’s lip gloss, I went for it. 

With Mary Kay® NouriShine Plus™ Lip Gloss, you can kiss those dull lips goodbye—it’s time to shine! Its lip nourishing formula delivers an instant boost of hydration, with a Hollywood-ready polished, stay-put shine. Offered in 14 fashion-forward shades, including: Cream & Sugar, Icicle, Mango Tango, Au Natural, Fancy Nancy, Pink Parfait, Pink Sateen, Pink Luster, Berry Tart, Café Au Lait, Rich Spice, Beach Bronze, Rock ‘n’ Red and Red Passion.

Here is a bit more information about this line of lip gloss:

• The Mary Kay NouriShine Plus Lip Gloss contains key ingredients such as Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Aloe Leaf Extract and a Pomegranate Sterol to help strengthen skin, reduce appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, smooth lips and help soften and calm the skin
• This gloss is perfect for women of all skin types/tones and those looking for a boost of moisture with gorgeous color or silky lips
• With an ultra-glossy shine and the subtle hint of vanilla, Mary Kay NouriShine Plus Lip Gloss will help kiss away a flavorless pout
• Suggested retail $14.00

So, what did I – the lip balm freak – think? Well . . .

I received 5 shades to try - Mango Tango (pictured at right), and these 4 (in order from left-right above): Café Au Lait, Cream & Sugar, Pink Parfait, and Rock ‘n’ Red.

Because I’m not a big fan of HUGE color on my lips, I tried the Cream & Sugar first.  I really liked it.  It gave me just a hint of color, which was very nice for everyday. 

Ashley wanted to take one to try and knew that I would also lay claim to the Café Au Lait, since she knows I go for the more neutral, warm tones.  So, she took the Pink Parfait. 

I  tried the Mango Tango on Sunday morning, thinking it might be nice for church; but it was just way too dark for my taste.  I love wearing red clothing, but considering the darkness of the Mango Tango, I know I can’t even try that Rock ‘n’ Red! 

Therefore, for me, I like the lighter shades.  They stay on quite nicely and they feel ok, though they are definitely a lot more sticky than lip balm.  The light vanilla flavor is nice.

If you would like to learn more about Mary Kay® NouriShine Plus™ Lip Gloss – or any of  their other products – you can visit them at the Mary Kay Website, on Facebook, and on Twitter.

Note: The information and products were provided by Mary Kay® through MyBlogSpark.  I only post about things that I have used and think would be of benefit to my readers.

Undaunted DVD

A few weeks ago, I received the movie Undaunted in the mail.  My family set it aside. Finally, yesterday afternoon, I found myself with some free time (of my making – sometimes, you just need to walk away from the computer); so I sat down and watched this film. 

Undaunted is a 68 minute film, depicting the true story of the early life of Josh McDowell.  It’s not an easy film to watch.  Josh’s early years were filled with some horrible realities – he had an alcoholic father who was abusive to Josh and his mother. He was also molested by a family “friend” (ongoing for many years).  Josh was hurt and he was ashamed; and, as a result, he hated God and even questioned His existence. 

Josh set out on a life journey to prove that Jesus Christ never existed.  But, God had other plans for Josh. 

Undaunted, narrated by Josh himself, is a docu-drama.  In it, Josh shares his journey from skepticism to faith. 

This movie would be an excellent choice to share with anyone who is questioning the existence of God.  It would make a wonderful outreach tool for churches to share.  I’d highly recommend it.  During those 68 minutes you’ll feel sad, shocked, hurt, broken – all the things that Josh himself must have been feeling.  If you’re anything like me, chances are you’ll feel changed by the end! 

Christmas Music Already? (Giveaway)

I love music.  I love Christmas.  So, it makes perfect sense that I really love the combination of the two – Christmas Music! Each year, we try to add at least one new Christmas cd to our collection.  And, each year, I think how the Christmas music season just doesn’t last long enough! So, I’ve been known to dig out my collection early and start listening. 

Lately, we’ve been listening to some new Christmas cd’s in the  van.  I’d like to tell you about them (then, offer a giveaway, so that you can enjoy them as well!)

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GRAMMY-nominated and BEC Recordings’ artist Jeremy Camp has released a Christmas project this holiday season titled Christmas: God With Us. This is Camp’s first full-length Christmas project in his 10-year career. The album is produced by Brown Bannister and Ben Shive along with Camp. Camp’s Christmas album is filled with holiday classics as well as the original title track “God With Us.” Fans will hear favorites such as “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Joy To The World,” and “Mary Did You Know.” Although these are traditional songs, Jeremy takes a fresh approach to the arrangements on his album.

Heidi Says . . . I am really enjoying this album!  Jeremy has a rich-sounding voice and gives these traditional songs a bit of a country-flair.  I don’t think there are any songs on the album that I don’t like.  I’m especially fond of “God With Us” – a song that Jeremy and his producers wrote together.  I think it’s hard to write a Christmas song that rivals the greats of old; but this one is excellent.  Its easy to pick up on and sing along with.  I’m sure this album will be a family favorite.

This Christmas, our friends from down under, Hillsong, bring us an album full of inspiring and festive songs soon to become Christmas classics. The seasons may be flipped with December falling in the middle of summer for Australia and there may not be snow, sleigh rides or “chestnuts roasting by an open fire”, but there is a common love for a baby born in a manger over 2,000 years ago. God incarnate. God amongst us. The greatest reason to sing this year and every year – sun or snow.  The first Christmas album from Hillsong in over 7 years features last year’s popular radio single “Born Is The King”, new arrangements to classic Christmas hymns as well as brand new songs to help keep our minds and hearts focused on the true reason for the season.

Heidi Says . . . Of the 3 albums that I received, I expected this one to be my least favorite, but I honestly don’t have a least favorite – I like them all for very different reasons.  I really enjoy listening to the voices of Hillsong on this album.  “Born Is The King” is a particular favorite, and I know I’ll like it even more when I’ve committed it to memory and can sing along.  I haven’t had this album as long, but I know we’ll all enjoy listening to it throughout the holiday season!

Rising singer/songwriter Josh Wilson releases his first full length Christmas album, “Noel”, this October as a follow up to last year’s hugely successful Christmas tour (Noel: A Unique Christmas Experience) and the #1 Christmas single of 2011, “Jesus is Alive”. Known for being one of the top songwriters and multi-instrumentalists in the industry, Wilson has been hailed as “the future of Christian pop” by media and his albums are regularly named to Year-End Top Ten Album lists. He has released numerous No. 1 hits including “Savior Please” and the powerful track “Before the Morning,” which landed the No. 4 spot on Billboard’s Year-End Christian Songs chart.

Heidi Says . . . I’ve been a fan of Josh Wilson since I heard “Before the Morning” several years ago.  The message behind that song really met me where I was at the time.  Immediately upon popping Noel into the cd player, you can tell that it’s classic Josh Wilson.  He has a very distinct sound, which I love!  His voice is so friendly and makes me feel like I’d like him just as much in person!  The 2 instrumental works on this album are great.  There are also 2 duets – one with Mandisa that is a lot of fun! 

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Now for the giveaway . . .

I have one of each of the above albums to give away.  And because I’m in the Christmas spirit, we’re going to make this as simple as possible . . .

All you have to do is leave me ONE COMMENT.  In the comment, tell me about your favorite Christmas song or cd and why it is your favorite. 

Then, also tell me which cd listed above that you would most like to win.  Listing your 2nd and 3rd choice will make your chance of winning a little bit better!

Next Saturday, November 10th, I will randomly select THREE winners, who will each receive one of these great cd’s to enjoy! GOOD LUCK!

 

NOTE: I received the cd’s mentioned above for free, in the hopes that I would share about them on my blog.  I only share things that I personally use and think would be a good fit for my readers.

The Beginner’s Bible App for iPad

I’ve  been a long-time fan of The Beginner’s Bible.  Both my girls (now 18 and 12) received copies of the Bible when they were dedicated.  Those Bibles got a LOT of use over the years, as we’d read the stories over and over again at bedtime. 

So, I was excited when I heard that they had released a new app for the iPad.  Ian loves playing on the Ipad, so I figured he would enjoy the app.   Here’s a bit about the app from the website:

The bestselling Bible storybook of all time with over 6 million copies sold is now available in an iPad app that includes enhanced audio with compelling narration, music, and sound effects that help bring 94 Bible stories to life like never before.

With Bible characters you can touch, coloring pages, puzzles, and games, this special iPad edition of The Beginner’s Bible brings God’s Word to children ages 2-6 in an engaging and interactive way.

Ian is 6 now, so he’s on the upper end of the suggested age range.  He played for awhile, but soon tired of it. 

I have to admit that even I had fun with the coloring pages!  I love those!

You can download the first “Story Pack”, which includes 6 stories, coloring pages, puzzles, and game, is included in your app download, completely FREE!

Unlock all story packs of 6 Bible stories each with coloring pages, puzzles, and games with in-app purchases of only $1.99 each. The second Story Pack is available for in-app purchase now with additional Story Packs releasing between now and the next three to five months.

Check it out for yourself (and your little ones)!

If you give a blogger a muffin (mix) . . .

I don’t know about you, but when I’m looking for good quality baking mixes, I almost always turn to Betty Crocker. I’ve used cake mixes, muffin mixes, cookie mixes, corn bread mixes, any many more!  I don’t think I’ve ever been disappointed. Betty Crocker is a brand that I’ve come to know and trust.  (I also love the Betty Crocker cookbooks!)

A few weeks ago, while Ashley and I were on our shopping run to a local grocery store chain, I saw some interesting muffin mixes on the shelf.  Not long later, I was offered the chance to review the new Betty Crocker® Cereal Muffin Mixes, inspired by Big G cereal favorites Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cocoa Puffs, and Reese´s Puffs.  I wasn’t about to pass up the opportunity! 

I got the neatest gift package of goodies in the mail, including:

•  a box of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal muffins
•   a box of Cocoa Puffs cereal muffins
•   a box of Reese´s Puffs cereal muffins
•   a Cinnamon Toast Crunch Apron
•   a Cocoa Puffs Tumbler
•   a red Betty Crocker Spoon
•   a Reese’s Puffs Therm O Snack

At my house, when these fun surprise packages come in the mail, we all stand around with anticipation, waiting to see what’s inside.  It’s like Christmas!  Ashley grabbed the apron right away – she’s been wanting one of her own.  And everyone else ooh’d and ahh’d over the muffin mixes. 

Of the 3 varieties, we all like the Reese’s Puffs Cereal the best, so we decided to try those muffins first.  The muffins are very easy to make – with just adding a few simple ingredients that you’re sure to already have on hand.  They bake up fairly quickly and look delicious!  I must admit that we weren’t as crazy about these particular muffins as we expected to be.  I think because both Gracie and I love chocolate cake with peanut butter icing, and these weren’t that – they are most definitely a MUFFIN, not a cupcake.  The topping is crunchy. 

Next, we decided to try the Cinnamon Toast Crunch muffins.  In recent years, despite my love of cinnamon, I’ve developed a sensitivity to it; so I was anxious to see how these muffins would be for me.  “Delicious” would be a good description.  They are very much like mini coffee cakes, and would be a great thing to serve friends for brunch, with coffee.  I will most definitely be purchasing these again, as we all enjoyed them.

We have yet to try the Cocoa Puffs muffins, so I can’t speak for them.  I’m guessing they will fall somewhere in the middle of the above two, as far as our assessment of them. 

I’m so happy because I get to give away one gift pack, just like the one that I received (pictured above).  If you would like to win, simply follow the Rafflecopter entries below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Can’t wait to see if you won?  Want to try these muffins NOW?  Be sure to print out this $.80 off coupon.

Disclosure:  The product, gift pack, information, and additional sample have been provided by Betty Crocker through MyBlogSpark.

I Am Gabriel

Recently I was asked to preview and review a new movie starring John Schneider and Dean Cain - I Am Gabriel.  Here's a bit of information about this movie, directed by Mike Norris (Walker Texas Ranger):

Promise, Texas is no place to raise a family. There's no rain, businesses are failing, and the kids can't wait to grow up and move away. Some folks say the town is cursed. But just when things are at their darkest, a mysterious boy wanders out of the wilderness with nothing but the clothes on his back and a strange mat tucked under his arm. He has a message for the people of Promise, but they're slow to listen. They are blind to the similarities between the slow death of the town and their own parched souls. Confronted by their spiritual shortcomings, the town's indignation turns to outrage. Still, the boy holds true to his message: there is no hope without Christ, and Promise can only be remade through earnest communion with the Father. In the end, with his back against the wall - surrounded by skeptics - the boy is forced to reveal his true identity.

I Am Gabriel is a lesson in connecting with those that really matter, whether they be on earth - or in Heaven.

Gracie and I viewed the movie together last week;  this morning, I sat down and watched it again with Ashley.  While it doesn't strike me as a high-budget film, and at times I'm left thinking that the acting is rather poor, the message that is being proclaimed in this movie is a very important one - and one that we all need to be reminded of - often!

I picked up on something this morning that I didn't notice last week - at the very beginning of the movie, there's a reference to this verse:

"if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." ~2 Chronicles 7:14

What a strong message - not only for the town of Promise in this movie, but for the United States.  Especially right now! 

This is a movie that you can put into the dvd player and watch with your entire family.  While there is a brief reference to drug usage, and there's a scene containing a gun, there's nothing that you'd be afraid to share with your kids.  And it will definitely stir up some healthy discussions! 

 

NOTE: I received a free copy of the dvd mentioned about in the hopes that I would share about it on my blog.  I only post about products that I've used and feel would be of benefit to my readers.

PLAYMOBIL® Take Along Soccer Match

I don’t know about where you live, but here in central PA, soccer season is in full swing.  My little soccer player is in his second season of playing outdoor soccer with the local town league.  He’s moved up to the U8 team this year and is learning more about plays and staying in position. 

A few weeks ago, I showed him a picture of a new soccer set that is available from PLAYMOBIL® and he immediately said that he’d love to have one!  He watched the mail each day, eagerly awaiting its arrival. 

When it finally arrived, he couldn’t wait for me to open the box.  I have to admit, I was pretty excited too.  Surrounding the carrying-case style toy was this box wrapper – just the picture makes you want to dive right in and get started playing some soccer, doesn’t it?  I’m not the least bit athletic, but it looked fun even to me!

The Take Along Soccer Match comes in a self-contained briefcase-style container.  There is a little assembly required to play, but not very much.  You have to remove the handle and another connecting piece – then you’re ready to set up the soccer match.

When you lay out the two sides of the case, you end up with a 22 x 33 inch field. 

There were some stickers that I needed to put along the sides of the field.  Then we were ready to check out the players!

The figures have a leg that kicks to propel the ball forward, which helps make playtime more realistic. There are also goalie figures that connect to goal joystick, which allows kids to control the goalies’ movements from behind the goal net.  These goalies, and the goals themselves, need to be removed after play in order to close up the play set. 

The PLAYMOBIL Take Along Soccer Match is ideal for kids ages five to ten; because of small parts it is not recommended for little ones under the age of three.  Should I share here that while my 6 year old son loves the soccer match, I’ve also caught my 12 year old daughter and my 43 year old husband playing as well?

They are both pretty competitive and had fun challenging each other!

As a mother, my favorite part of the PLAYMOBIL® Take Along Soccer Match is that it is all self-contained in a small carrying case.  Not only is it mobile – for take-along fun (my son has enjoyed carrying it along to Mimi’s on a few occasions already) but it’s also very easy to store. 

GIVEAWAY!

Thanks to PLAYMOBIL®  and MyBlogSpark, I have another PLAYMOBIL® Take Along Soccer Match to give away to one lucky reader!  If you would like to win, simply enter using the Rafflecopter widget below!

Can’t wait to see if you have won?! Visit Playmobilusa.com to redeem the coupon code US72A12C for 20% off Playmobil Take Along items.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure:  The information and gift packs have been provided by PLAYMOBIL USA through MyBlogSpark.

My Well Planned Day Goes Digital! (Giveaway)

Several years ago, I co-created another well-known planner in the homeschool marketplace – a .pdf format planner that could be used entirely online, or printed out and bound to create your own personalized planner.  Because of my connection to that particular planner, I resisted the urge to check out the other planners that were out there (even though I’m a known planner/planning junkie!)  This year, though, I decided it was high time to make some changes in my life – and the lives of my children – when it comes to our homeschool planning. 

Despite my creation of said-planner, I have always created personal planning forms for my kids.  I like things to be exactly the way I want them – I know that might sound picky, but it’s just the way I roll.  This year, though, with Gracie entering the 8th grade, I really felt that it would be beneficial for her to take a more active role in her school planning.  So, I went in search of a printed planner that might work for her. 

What I ended up with was the Student Planner from The Well Planned Day.  I posted about my early experience with that planner over at Homeschool Mosaics several weeks ago.  Quite honestly, we have had a busy summer and really haven’t gotten much further into our school year – but we have used the planner to schedule in all of her music lessons and various field trips.  And, I’m continuing to really like the format for her. 

A few weeks ago, I was offered the opportunity to test (and give away!) the brand new DIGITAL VERSION of The Well Planned Day.  I wasn’t 100% sure that I really “needed” the extra planning software, but I was curious to see what all it had to offer.  And I thought it might be a good way for me to oversee ALL that is going on in our homeschool – Ian’s first grade work, our busy family schedule, etc. 

While I must admit that, with our crazy-busy summer, I haven’t had a lot of time to really dig into this software, there are definitely a few things that I’ve observed about it that I really like:

• It is fully customizable (if you click on this link you can see all the color options that are available – and, while this might seem trivial, I love things to be pretty and “me” so this is a great addition!)
• You can create separate records for individual students.  Within those accounts, you can have various file folders for different things – projects, field trips, extracurricular activities, etc.
• I’ve talked about our homeschool portfolios in the past.  While I love creating them as keepsakes for my kids, they do take up space and space is always limited.  This year, we decided to go paperless with our portfolios.  With this software, you can keep record of your children throughout their school years (in other words, this software will last you through your homeschool career – not just for one year, like a paper/print planner). 
• It’s more than just for school.  This planner gives you the option of tracking your budget, keeping your family calendar, creating chore charts, making your menu, and much more!  I love that it’s so versatile.
• And, did I mention that it’s pretty?  Yep, I think I did.

Now, all that being said, this is just a planner software – it’s not your brain.  Therefore, there is a learning curve involved.  I still haven’t figured out all the features.  (But, then again, I really haven’t had the time.)  I look forward to investigating it further over the weeks to come. 

So, what do you think?  Have you looked into this program at all for your homeschool?  Are you maybe sitting on the fence, not quite sure if you’re ready to invest the $65 to try it out?  If so, then I think you’ll be pleased with this ---
Just for reading this post on Heidi’s Head, you are entitled to purchase My Well Planned Day Software for $15 off!  Just enter this code at checkout: 05wpdblog12 (the code is case sensitive, contains no spaces, and expires on October 1, 2012).

I also have ONE COPY of the software to give away to one of my readers.  If you would like to win, simply follow the Rafflecopter instructions in the widget below.  (Please note that due to international sweepstakes laws, this giveaway is for US entries only.) 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

NOTE: This giveaway is not connected to any social media site. I received a free access code for the software, in the hopes that I would try it out in my home and share my thoughts on it.  I only ever share things that I feel will be beneficial to my readers.  This giveaway is sponsored by Home Educating Family.

What’s Your Laundry Detergent of Choice?

Mondays are generally considered “Laundry Day” at my house.  I try to get as much of our laundry done as possible on Mondays, and then just do “straggling” loads throughout the week, as needed.  What about you?  Do you have a designated laundry day at your house? 

As a busy work-at-home, homeschooling mom, I’m always looking for ways to make my around-the-house tasks simpler and quicker.  In the past, I was very “into” making my own laundry detergent.  I did like the feeling of having made it myself, and knowing exactly what went into it. But (and here’s my lazy side coming out) lately I’ve been buying laundry detergent – it just saves me so much more time (and, quite frankly, I like the way it smells!) 

Most recently, I’ve been using all small & mighty.  I love that the bottle isn’t huge and heavy, but it’s concentrated enough that you need very little in a load.  A 64 fl. oz. bottle is enough for 64 loads! 

I had an opportunity through Smiley 360 to try a new product from all – their mighty pacs.

Can you say “easy”?! These little things are a great idea in laundry  detergent!  Each little “packet” contains a pre-measured dose of super-concentrated laundry detergent.  The outer layer of the packet will dissolve in either hot or cold water, allowing the detergent to interact with your laundry – both cleaning it and removing stains! 

What I find so neat about these handy little pacs is that they are so simple and easy to use, and don’t require lifting a big heavy bottle of detergent.  I think these would be so ideal for older people, who maybe have issues with arthritis or muscle problems.  All you do is grab a teeny little pac and through it in your washer – no lifting whatsoever. 

I’ve been using my mighty pacs for about a week now and my laundry is clean, fresh, and stain-free.  Yay! 

Would you like to try all mighty pacs?  Guess what?  If you “like” them on FB, you can get a 75 cent off coupon to use toward your purchase.  I’m guessing that, if you take advantage of this coupon, you’ll probably come back here and thank me! 

NOTE: I received a full-sized bag of all mighty pacs (enough for 24 loads of laundry) as part of a Smiley 360 mission.  I was not required to post a positive review.  I only share items that I feel are beneficial to my readers.

Sun, Sunday, and Sunglasses

Today is a sunny Sunday, so I thought it seemed like the perfect time to tell you about something I received in the mail recently . . .

I was offered the opportunity of reviewing a pair of glasses or sunglasses from Firmoo.  Those of you who have been reading my blog for some time, probably already know that I realized a few years ago that there are better (cheaper) options than purchasing your prescription glasses from the eye doctor.  There had been a few occasions that we had paid over $250 for one pair of glasses.  Then, I discovered the online options and have been purchasing glasses for my family online ever since. 

Firmoo.com is a “global online optical store” specializing in both prescription glasses and sunglasses.  The thought of being able to wear sunglasses again made me very hopeful, as I’ve been missing sunglasses ever since transitioning from contacts back to glasses a few years ago.  Let’s face it, not only is there something fun about wearing a trendy pair of sunglasses, but they also greatly help with keeping the sun out of your eyes – something regular glasses just can’t accomplish.  Oh, I’ve tried the transition lenses that get dark in the sun – they’re ok, but I hate how you walk into a building and they stay dark for awhile.  So, I browsed the sunglasses selection at Firmoo, found a pair I liked, and placed my order.

I was very impressed with the  customer service department at Firmoo.  Just a short while after placing my order, I received an e-mail from them, saying they were confused by my prescription.  I scanned the original and e-mailed it to them; and all was well.  They wrote back to tell me that my sunglasses would be on their way soon. 

I received a shipping notice and saw that the glasses had shipped from China, so I figured it would take them awhile to reach me here in the states.  I was wrong – they arrived at my door in just a few short days!

I’ve had them for about a week now and must say that I’m really enjoying them.  I keep them in my van because that’s where I need them the most.  I thought it would be a pain swapping glasses all the time; but, really, it hasn’t been that big of a deal.  I have realized how much I was squinting when I was driving before – now I don’t have to squint, my eyes are protected from the sun, and I can see!  Pretty cool!  I’ve used them this past week on walks, at amusement parks, and for driving.

Would you like to try a pair of glasses from Firmoo?  Well, you’re in luck!  Firmoo is the world's most popular online eyeglasses store.  Vision and Fashion the Frugal Way is the ultimate goal of Firmoo, so it has always committed itself to providing customers with high-quality and fashionable eyewear at the most affordable prices.  Firmoo launched a program offering free eyewear to first-time buyers in order to make more people try Firmoo’s quality products & excellent service. Plus, it’s easy to get your free eyewear, and the delivery is pretty fast! Want to have a try? Just go to http://www.firmoo.com/free-glasses.html to get your FREE pair! 

One thing I must mention about the free glasses --- there are only a limited number of each style available each day, and it’s a first come, first serve thing.  In other words, you might have to be a bit flexible with your time, in order to snag your favorite pair.  But, it’s worth it!  After all, they are free!

After my girls saw my glasses and realized how much I was enjoying them, they each wanted a pair of prescription sunglasses of their own.  I’d highly recommend them! 

Here’s a bit more about Firmoo, if you’re interested in learning more about this company:

Firmoo.com is the most popular online eyeglasses store worldwide. Years of expertise in optical industry enable firmoo.com to offer varieties of prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses in a frugal way and to be the ultimate fashion events guide. Since the establishment of our company, we have served over 300,000+ customers and now we also have 470,000+ fans on facebook. We have always committed ourselves to offering customers the best quality products at the most affordable prices, 85%~90% lower than that in the brick-and-mortar optical stores.

NOTE: I received a free pair of eyeglasses in exchange for my posting about them on my blog.  I was not required to post a positive review.  I only post about items that I feel will be of interest and benefit to my readers.