Friday, May 18, 2012

Exercise: It's Good for Your Brain Too! with Find It® Games - the ultimate "Contained Adventure"


Find It! On the Farm and On Dry Ground Review



Find It! On the Farm ($23) is the newest Contained Adventure™ from Find It® Games.  This silo shaped version brings an old favorite to life, appealing to little farmers and animal lovers alike. “On the Farm” features 42 hidden items including a tractor, pitchfork, scarecrow, milk jug, and a hearty assortment of furry friends & livestock nestled among the brightly colored pellets.  Like all Find It® hidden object games, "On the Farm" provides hours of fun for the entire family, young and old.  Use the enclosed score pad to check off items as you find them in this Contained Adventure™.  With all the hidden items conveniently listed on the bottom of the silo, you can take it on a car ride, play it in the field or in the barn - this game has everything you’d expect to find down "On the Farm!"

I think these are absolutely adorable. It's ironic that the first time I saw them was at a school bookstore fundraiser this year. I picked them up and was all "What is this?" Giana is telling me how they have one in the aftercare room and how she plays with it. So when the opportunity came to get one for her, I knew she would be excited. One girl on the website says: "Do NOT hand this to an obsessive personality!"

At first Giana would start to see the corner of an item, but not be able to tell what it was, and shake it too hard in one direction to reveal it, only to send it covered in beads again. But she is determined and doesn't let it frustrate her.
What is frustrating is how I can't Find the Penny!

What's funny is: you would think it would be easy to find the things, because the canister is slender. I imagine the more slender and full it is the harder it would be. 
 Devonny (my 2 year old) just thinks it's a rattle and walks around the house shaking it with this hilarious excited look on her face!  I think it is cute how it's shaped like a silo too, but I am not sure Giana has made that connection yet.
This game is good for brain "exercising" and challenging your brain!
This year, stimulate your neurons with a diet of challenging, novel tasks. Don’t worry if training seems difficult at times. It’s perfectly normal to feel challenged—and it’s good for you. If you feel like challenging your brain at the next level, consider playing/buying some of the games on the Find It! website, they are available for purchase at many fine retailers as well.

Package included the Find It "On The Farm" hidden object game. A family game for one or more players to enjoy whether you are 8 or 98!






ON DRY GROUND PUZZLE - ( $13) NEW FOR 2012
There are timeless moments in history that have been captured in writing and passed down from generation to generation.  Find It® Games brings some of these moments to life in our new “Pieces of History” series of interactive puzzles.   

On Dry Ground puzzle captures the crossing of the Red Sea, a significant event of historical relevance. Jigsaw puzzle players will delight in the vibrant artwork commissioned from painter Rachel Land. Pictured on the perimeter of this 300-piece puzzle are icons from that era including objects like a chariot wheel, & scrolls.

Like the traditional Find It®  hidden object games, players need to look closely throughout the finished puzzle to discover these hidden objects within the artwork. The included key, resembling an Egyptian parchment document, explains the significance of each found object. Finished puzzle measures 20.75" x 15".

Hindsight is 20/20 and I wish I had instead picked the Parade of Animals. I think it would have held her attention better. I assumed since she is gifted that this would be a breeze for her. She is almost 7, and the puzzle is recommended for 8+. I have seen her complete 200 piece puzzles in an a little less than an hour. I think it was boring to her, because she doesn't understand history yet. Ironically that is what I was trying to do- of course, was interest her in history.

 I think if I hold onto this puzzle for another year, she might be more driven to finish it. She does love puzzles. We had to help her with this puzzle a little, but she did think it was adorable. And I don't mind that she needs the help, since it gives me an opportunity to spend quality time with her. Since shes in school most of the day, I lack that. Thank goodness it's almost summer though. Lots of one on one time for Mommy & Daughter & Baby Sister too! She misses her while she's at school!

Giana was getting very excited when she found items on the border. I thought it was neat how the items you are looking for are all laid out for you on the framing. I loved the construction of the box, because flimsy boxes can be a major issue when it comes to storing puzzles. If a child accidentally tears the side of the box, the pieces will spill and the puzzle is no good. My trick is to tape the edges as soon as I get the box, and to also keep the pieces stored in a plastic zippered bag inside the box.

Would I recommend this puzzle/game? Heck yes!

We have little to no storage space/closets in this house. In fact the only closet that is NOT in a bedroom is my pantry which is uber small. I know, I could kick whoever designed this house in the groin. I even have to keep our vacuum in the garage it is so silly! I also keep our massive stack of bard games./puzzles out there too. Since the garage isn't properly sealed and we live close to the woods, I get a visitor every year- well, lets call him an unwanted roommate. I call him Warehouse Mouse. I can't kill him, I just can't. It doesn't feel right. I would cry. So he eats all the stuff in my garage in the winter.
Including my games and puzzles. :(
 Not fun. I actually had the hubby install wire shelves to protect my cardboard games. So now this will be stored up high with them.. outside. *Sad* Unless he goes all spider-man and starts climbing the walls, they should be good- right?
Hate to go off on a rant there, but wondering if anyone has suggestions for this? Perhaps moth balls?

I have a cat now, but she is 3 legged. She can't run fast, but she tries. Perhaps I will keep her in the garage this year and let nature takes it's course? She is small though, and this "mouse" is a biggun.



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This giveaway ends on 5/30 the widget will stop accepting entries, winner will be notified and have 48 hours to respond with shipping address! GOOD LUCK!~






Find It® Games featured on the Todayshow



*Disclaimer*  I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” The opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own. Your experience with the product may differ from mine.

Thursday, May 17, 2012

“American Dad” Volume 7 out on DVD now! Seth MacFarlane stole my heart with this show.




Dear Television Critics,

Klaus here to remind you that I am still suffering the aftermath of an American inferiority complex that has left me perpetually entrapped in this hideous amphibious body with this absurd family… But that’s neither here nor there. I’m penning this letter to tell you about something, something important:


Although I may have my qualms with the alien, this collection of episodes is truly a pleasure. For starters you will get to admire my sharp wit and swoon over my sexy accent as often as you would like. But perhaps most importantly, “American Dad” Volume Seven brings the most beautiful woman of Langley Falls into your living room, Francine. Oh, Francine.

Anyways, you must take a look at the “American Dad” Volume Seven DVD, because like me, the best things lie under the surface. Of course Volume 7 includes fantastic episodes, loads of extra features and bonus content. 

Well my equally cynical friends, I think I have said enough.
……

auf Wiedersehen for now
Klaus


List of episodes:(2010-2011 season)

"100 A.D." 4.5/5
"Son of Stan" 3.5/5
"Best Little Horror House in Langley Falls" 4/5
"Stan's Food Restaurant" 4.5/5
"White Rice" 4/5
"There Will Be Bad Blood" 3.5/5
"The People vs. Martin Sugar" 5/5
"For Whom the Sleigh Bell Tolls" 5/5
"Fart-Break Hotel" 3/5
"Stanny Boy and Frantastic" 4.5/5

"A PiƱata Named Desire" 3.5/5
"You Debt Your Life" 3/5
"I Am the Walrus" 3.5/5
"School Lies" 4/5
"License to Till" 4.5/5
"Jenny Fromdabloc" 3/5
"Home Wrecker" 4/5
"Flirting with Disaster" 4/5 (Hilarious spoof of "The Office" in the opening scences)
"Gorillas in the Mist" 3.5/5




OK, I'll admit it. I am a TV junkie. The raunchier the better. While Family Guy is unquestionably one of the dirtiest cartoon to hit public TV..I mean, am I the only one who remembers the days when The Simpsons was first out on TV and it was deemed inappropriate because it was a cartoon and the dad (Homer) drank beer and Bart was a troublemaker? Those days are long past, move over Simpsons; because apparently western civilization can't get enough of dirty cartoons. While Family Guy is the dirtiest I think it pushes the envelope too much as far as religion goes. I am not a religious extremist by any means. But hearing the things that that show says as far as religion and sex is concerned can just make a preacher cringe and flush in anger, and a whore blush I am sure. And while this isn't a review of Family Guy, I do want to say that.


While I enjoy King of the Hill, and thought it would never be topped by any cartoon, I was wrong. I love American Dad so much, that I have to watch it at night on Adult Swim, even though here, it is on at some 1 in the morning and I have to be up to be the "bus-driver" (not literally, but yes I have to transport a little one to school). 


I dismissed American Dad at first- as being too much like Family Guy and like its predecessor too dirty but it has definitely grown on me. Both come from the mind of creator Seth MacFarlane. To surpass King of the Hill? I have seen EVERY episode of King of the Hill and that has been my late night friend/companion throughout my insomniac sleepless nights for some 8 years now. 



American Dad, in case you have missed this golden nugget: follows the Smith family, led by CIA agent Stan and his level-headed wife, Francine. Sharing their house are two teenagers, a talking goldfish and an effeminate, housebound alien.

Whereas Family Guy’s punch lines reference pop culture, American Dad has a decidedly political slant.



Turning off my satellite/cable scares me actually- because I know how much I will miss watching American Dad at night. That is why I was so glad when FOX agreed to send me the Season 7 three disc set of American Dad. I love this family. Haley, Klaus, Roger and Steve are so perfectly imperfect and likable that is is ridiculous. The episodes always make me smile and almost always make me laugh out loud. Of course, all that praise be it for naught, (it should go without saying) that I adored watching this set and was tickled pink to get it. THANK  YOU  FOX! 


My favorite episode on the disc is "Homewrecker". 
Equally good is the 100th episode where Haley elopes with Jeff . Jeff is a some-what newer stoner character who cracks me the hell up.
AMERICAN DAD: Stan and Francine fight over how to redecorate the house in the "Home Wrecker" episode of AMERICAN DAD.


There is a review on Amazon that I whole-heartedly agree with by a reviewer called: The Man With No Name

He says, and I quote: 

"Anyway, American Dad was a show that for years I ignored. I never gave it the time of day, after all I had Family Guy. Well, Family Guy for me has started to wane in years past and I decided one night to give American Dad a try. My brother and I laughed ourselves almost to the point of hiccupping. This show is histerical. (He meant to say Hysterical) Also this is NOT Family Guy Jr. This show follows it's own formula and style. I.E. no cut scenes like Family Guy."
end quote.


I whole heartedly agree with that statement, except the mispelling of Hysterical, but I am sure there are many typos among this blog, so I'll let it slide. But just this once. :)
His opinion 100% reflects the way I feel about American Dad. I mentioned to a few friends that I had gotten it and it seems to still be quite the undiscovered gem. Everyone seems to think it is a Family Guy Wanna Be. It isn't. Please don't diss on this show like that. It is a million times better than Family Guy ever dreamed of being. 


Even though I had seen most all of the episodes on Adult Swimalready, I could watch them every night. And I do.


If reading this review makes you want to watch it it and see what all the fuss is about, don't fret! You can buy the same set I received on  $25.91 & this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping


Keep up with them on Facebook.com/AmericanDad



*Disclaimer*  I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” The opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own. Your experience with the product may differ from mine.

Coppertone®: I'm a Water Mom!!!




I entered my beautiful daughter Giana in the Little Miss Coppertone Contest, and you can enter your little girl too! The contest is open to girls of a certain age, and the photos must be taken outside. Read all about it and ENTER HERE! on Facebook. They know each of you is a Coppertone Girl in your own unique way and now you can find out what kind of Coppertone Girl you are by taking this fun quiz on Facebook

Remember, if you have a little girl age 2-8, all you have to do is submit a photo of her by June 22nd to enter the Little Miss Coppertone Contest.  Special guest judge Alison Sweeney will lead the judging team in selecting finalists and starting on July 13th, America will vote to choose the next Little Miss Coppertone! The winner gets a dream family vacation and will be featured in a Coppertone print ad! To enter the contest and read the official rules, visit the Coppertone Facebook page.

So make sure you spread the word about the Little Miss Coppertone contest and the What Kind of Coppertone Girl Are You? quiz 

 I am a proud Coppertone Water Mom! Protecting our little ones is UBER important, in every way possible. Even the sun. Especially the sun. Since we live near the beach, and visit quite frequently most weekends, this was a venture I was excited about! Coppertone is driving the force is safe outdoor play! Pardon the pun- but if your looking for suncare Coppertone has you covered!
I loved my little Coppertone Water mom kit they sent out, it has all kinds of samples which I promptly gave out to my friends. I intend on keeping a bunch of them in the trunk of my car so that when we go to the beach, and the spray cans run out, we are still safe and protected! Did I mention this gorgeous towel they sent?






I love the little classic image of the dog pulling the bikini bottom of the little girl. That has got to be one of the best logos a brand has had. Ever.

Sun Care Tips: Smart Sunscreen Use
  • Get a head start on the sun. - Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before you are exposed to the sun.
  • Don't skimp on sunscreen. - Use it liberally and apply it evenly over all exposed skin to ensure complete coverage. Reapply as directed.
  • Cover all the bases. - It's easy to overlook spots like the ears, neck, and shoulders, but they need sunscreen too. Remember to grab a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses and to seek shade when the sun is most intense.
  • Follow the numbers. - SPF tells you the level of protection a sunscreen provides from sunburn. Use sunscreen with broad spectrum SPF 15 or higher whenever you'll be outdoors.
  • Reapply, reapply, reapply. - Apply another coat of sunscreen as needed, at least every 2 hours- and be sure to reapply after swimming, sweating, vigorous activity or toweling off.
  • Select water resistant sunscreens that can keep up with kids. - Use water resistant sunscreens with broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and look for products that are quick and easy to apply to squirmy kids. (Keep babies under six months of age out of the sun and consult a doctor before applying sunscreen.)
I even have a coupon for you so you can get some of your very own Coppertone. $1/1 Print the coupon here.

While I love the convenience of the sprays, I do question the safety of them, and have noticed they are only good for one family for one day. I much prefer the lotions, as they seem to go a lot further!



For more sun care tips, please visit 
Coppertone.com


Thank you Coppertone and MomSelect!
 "No Purchase Necessary. Contest Ends on 6/22/12. Click for Details
As a member of the Coppertone® Water MOMS group, I receive product samples and promotional items to share and use as I see fit.  No monetary compensation has taken place and any opinions expressed by me are honest and reflect my actual experience.
"Disclosure: I was entered for a chance to win a gift card in exchange for this post.  No monetary exchange took place."  

GetHeavenly.com has Heavenly prices! REVIEW



Heavenly Couture has some really trendy clothing! The selection on this site is astronomically outstanding, there's so much to choose from.   Women shoes, juniors, the styles range from sexy, classic, basic, flirty, abstract, to so many other different styles, and all marked down from rather high prices to unbelievably low prices. If you are looking to refresh your wardrobe my suggestion is you start here!

Here is what I chose, and how adorable is it?

Unfortunately it is CURRENTLY Out of Stock, but it was priced remarkably low, and only 17.95!!!

Sweetly tiered, this jacket by S-Line features ruffled sleeves and a bow as a back strap. Single breasted with 1" wide buttons, this adorable coat is layered with 7.5" and 6.5" tiers. The sleeves end with 3.5" ruffles. The bow on the back is 7"x3". A decorative coat that would go nicely with an equally cute outfit.
  • 100% Cotton.
  • Machine wash cold. Tumble dry low. use non-chlorine bleach. Warm iron.
  • Measured from a Small: 31" Highest point of the shoulder to hem. 36" Bust. 1" Buttons. 13" Shoulder to shoulder. 19" Sleeves.


MY OPINION:
You know, to be honest (always!) I really didn't expect too much for $17.. But boy was I surprised! I guess what I am saying is I expected it to be of poor quality, thin, poorly sewn or crudely made if you will.. but it is anything but. It is very heavy duty thick material and I cannot believe they sell this for that cheap! No wonder it is all sold-out now! I haven't worn it yet- since I live in Northern Florida it gets extremely hot here, we have all of like 6 weeks in which you would even need a jacket. But it will get worn eventually. We might end up living up north again soon, with the military you just never know. We have to go where his boat goes... But it is super nice, and I love the satin lining inside it. The flared/ruffle cuffs on the sleeve add to the flirt of this jacket, you could pair it with so much! I adore it!



I also almost picked this (above) because I love houndstooth. It is a very cool KLD Signature jacket.  It is not out of stock, and is only $17.95! That's an amazing price for ANY jacket, let alone one this stylish!



I love this sweet & romantic Romeo & Juliet floral print ruffled dress. Like most things on the site, it is only $17.95.

Also, if you have time- do check out this dress, it looks splatter painted, and it is very abstract. It is called the Angie Abstract Bird Print Mini Dress  in Multicolored. If you look close the splatters are in the figures of birds. It is only 15$

Lastly, these AMAZING  Multi Strap Black Wedge Booties are only $20, ok ... $19.95, but you get the point!

They also offer free shipping on $75 or more, and have all sorts of items, not just dresses and outwear!
They have: TOPS, BASICS, SWEATERS, BOTTOMS, ACCESSORIES & SHOES!!

But enough about that, just go check out the site yourself, I bet you find something that you love!


Don't forget to "like" them on  Facebook.com/HeavenlyCouture
or follow them on Twitter @heavenlycouture

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” The opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own. Your experience with the product may differ from mine. The sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment and will be shipping the winner(s) their prize(s). For more information read my disclosure policy.

Trymbl: Discover. Try. Buy.




Of course, it's Trymbl is FREE to join. So sign up now!