The Prettie Girls! - Doll Review

I received dolls for review.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

My girls are past the doll stage but I still purchase gifts often for nieces.  Some of those gifts require browsing for dolls.  Just like most moms, I'm appalled at the teeny tiny outfits and too mature "personalities" of some dolls sold on the shelf.  I'm an open-minded person but that still doesn't mean I'm going to buy dolls that aren't age appropriate, even if they are considered cool.

 

I was recently introduced to the One World Doll Project’s Prettie Girls! Four dolls make up the Prettie Girls! collection, each with their own unique story, style and personality. Although they hail from different cultural backgrounds, each girl embodies the positive and aspirational attributes that every little girl can embrace.  Prettie stands for Positive - Respectful - Enthusiastic - Talented - Truthful - Inspiring - Excellent.  A Prettie Girl! Doll can be a girl's toy, friend and positive role model, who offers a glimpse into their biggest and brightest dreams by getting good grades, helping their communities and taking their futures seriously.

 

 

The current collection includes:

- Lena - fun, fresh, confident, and smart

- Valencia - bold & daring, with a passion for a healthy lifestyle

- Kimani - artistic, creative, and loves the performing arts

- Dahlia - a natural born comedian with a brilliant mind and quick-wit

back of doll packaging

 

Lena and Kimani are the two Pretti Girls! dolls I received.  Each doll has their own traits and characteristics for who they are.  For example, Lena's favorite childhood memory is summer cheerleading camp and she excels in fundraising.  With a blouse and jumpsuit, she looks very business-like.  Kimani wears a fashionable red and yellow dress with accessories that include a purse and necklace.  The dolls are jointed at the arms and legs, making them moveable.  I like that the dolls are available in different ethnicities, are appropriate for girls, and bring a positive light to positive attributes.

Which of the Prettie Girls! dolls would your child most relate to or play with?

Eggs

I can lay 'em but I can't scramble 'em.  If I ever have to live on my own, I will be eating cereal for the rest of my life.  I can kiss better than I can cook.  Thankfully I have wonderful co-workers who scramble me up some delicious eggs with onion and feta.  I could just kiss them.

Master Lock Safety Tips For Married Couples - Review and Giveaway

I received product for review.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

Master Lock is kicking off wedding season and National Safety Month by reminding newlyweds of important safety and security precautions to consider as they embark on married life. Saying “I do” is one of the most significant commitments and milestones people experience during their lifetime.

“Getting married is the beginning of a new chapter in couples’ lives,” said Rebecca Smith, vice president, marketing for Master Lock. “Understandably, many couples are focused on the excitement of planning a wedding and don’t always spend time ensuring for a safe and secure future. Master Lock can help newlyweds by offering a variety of reliable tips and products they can trust.”

As a part of the brand’s continuous commitment to keep consumers safe through all life stages, Master Lock is providing married couples with these safety tips and easy-to-use products:

1. The Registry: Although more than 2 million couples tie the knot each year, 84 percent of U.S. and Canadian residents do not include safety items on their wedding registry.* Adding a durable, long-lasting safe, such as the Sentry Safe FHW40200 Waterproof Fire-Resistant File, to your registry will help ensure your valuables, marriage license and other important belongings are protected and safeguarded for years to come.

2. The Honeymoon: Whether you are traveling to an exotic destination or spending the weekend away, your honeymoon is a celebratory time for you and your spouse. As you pack your sunglasses, sandals and suits, don’t forget to lock up your luggage with a Master Lock 4688D or 4692D TSA-Accepted Luggage Lock to protect your valuables while traveling. Make sure to keep credit cards, cash, jewelry and other small items in the portable Master Lock 5900D SafeSpace personal safe to secure your belongings while you have some fun in the sun.

3. The Home: Buying your dream home and moving in together may be the first time couples combine their belongings. From electronics to jewelry, your home is the place where all of your personal valuables and belongings are located. With a burglary occurring every 15 seconds,** turn your house into a safe haven with added protection and security measures. Beyond customary locks, use a Master Lock 265DCCSEN Door Security Bar to resist forced entry through front, patio or sliding glass doors.

4. The Finances: Filing jointly with your spouse offers many advantages, and with a new marital status comes significant changes that could affect your taxes. Couples who jointly file are able to deduct two exemption amounts from their income and qualify for multiple credits. To keep all your necessary tax documents organized and protected throughout the year, use the Master Lock Vault, a free, digital safe deposit box, to store credit card numbers and digital copies of tax forms or other important documents in a secure, reliable location for easy access from any smart phone or computer.

5. The Commitment: Getting married should be a positive time in your life, and committing to your spouse and relationship is a significant milestone. As in other areas of your life, marriage will be full of ups and downs. Planning for the long-term, discussing your goals, compromising and making sacrifices are all important steps to creating a happy and strong foundation together.

*According to a March 2015 Safety and Security Survey of more than 1,500 U.S. and Canadian residents conducted by Master Lock via SurveyMonkey. **According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

Master Lock is best known as the world's largest manufacturer of padlocks and other security products. One of their items is the 5900D portable personal safe that's best used for electronic devices, identity protection and credit card storage.

When I'm out and about, there's times I want to keep my valuables locked up tight. I mean, let's face it, it's not always a safe world out there! It's cool to have a safe at home, but it's also nice to have a product that will keep my valuables secure when I'm not home.

The Master Lock Portable Personal Safe is lightweight and ideal for MP3 players, cell phones, cameras, gaming devices, jewelry, and other small valuables. Granted, it doesn't hold large objects, but it does keep small assets protected. Instructions are included, and they are easy to understand. By following the instructions, you can set the combination to the four numbers you want for access. A cable wrapped around the sides can be used to affix the portable safe to a fixed object if desired. The cable also doubles as a carrying handle. A shock absorbing foam interior liner keeps the valuables from being broken if rattled around. The safe is constructed with durable water-resistant materials.

I've started taking this portable personal safe with me when I go on day trips or to events.  It usually holds my cash, cell phone, and car keys. Although there's no guarantees in life about safety and security, it helps give me a peace of mind that my valuables are protected.

Win It!

One person will win a Master Lock 5900D SafeSpace portable personal safe.

*This is a Rafflecopter giveaway open to residents of the USA.*

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H20GO! Backyard Water Slide - Review

I received product for review.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

It's now officially summer vacation for most students.  I don't mind if my kids stay in the house once in a while, but they're not allowed to veg out.  There's no reason they can't play outdoors and be active.  Backyard water slides are a form of outdoor fun, especially in the heat.

 

Bestway, Inc. is making a huge splash this summer with the unveiling of its new line of wet and wild H2OGO! backyard water slides.  The H2OGO! slides are the first line of water slides to feature the patent-pending Speed Ramp, an inflatable launch pad that creates a smooth, big splash belly-flop landing while propelling riders down the 18-foot slide.  Water funnels throughout the entire slide, reducing friction and increasing speed as riders cascade towards the final deluge in the drench pool.

Jason blowing up the Speed Ramp by mouth

 

The H2OGO! water slides come in a single, double, and triple model.  I received the triple model for review.  It is designed so that three riders can go down the slide at once.  Included with the water slide are hose nozzle connectors and a repair patch.

water slide fully inflated with water flow cascading all around

 

Set-up of the H2OGO! water slide is pretty easy.  Once you take it out of the box and completely unroll the water slide, it's important to lay it on ground that is free of debris.  The Speed Ramp, the section at the top of the water slide, requires air inflation.  My husband did it by mouth, although I'm sure it'd be much easier and quicker if done with a pump.  Afterwards, he connected the garden hose to an opening and let the water fill up the entire sides of the water slide.  Once that was complete, fountains of water sprayed out of little openings, surrounding the entire slide and getting it wet and ready for use.

Playing on the water slide

 

My kids are older and took a couple turns on the H2OGO! water slide.  They gained some enjoyment from it.  But the ones that really got a kick out of it were the 3 and 5 year old kids that come around from time to time.  They squealed and screeched with excitement.  Some time was spent going down the slide on their bellies and some time was spent just running up and down the water slide, going through the sprinkling water.  The slide is 18 feet long, so there was ample room to get a good slide.  Inflatables can be a bit tricky because they can tend to rip or tear easily.  So far, we haven't had that problem.  And it's not due to being careful!  The kids have stomped, slid, and ran on it over and over again. 

 

The H2OGO! water slide has been a lot of fun and we'll continue to use it throughout the summer.

laying in the drench pool at the end of the water slide

Turbo Fast: Season One - #TurboFastInsiders Giveaway

In exchange for this post, I will receive product.  This post is in partnership with Fox Home Entertainment Insiders.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

"Turbo Fast" Season One Start your engines... and rev up the fun! From DreamWorks Animation, creators of the hit movie Turbo, comes the high-speed animated series that takes comedy, action and excitement to the extreme. Join the world's fastest snail and his Fast Action Stunt Team as they put their elite skills to the test against all- new opponents on and off the track. It's a Turbo-charged collection of heart-racing thrills!

Turbo Fast Maze

Turbo Fast: Season One is coming to DVD June 2nd. This 3 Disc DVD set contains all 26 episodes from Season 1 of the Netflix cartoon.

Turbo Fast Trading Cards

Turbo Fast Word Search

Win It!

 

One person will win Turbo Fast: Season One on DVD.

 

*This is a Rafflecopter giveaway open to residents of the USA.*

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Start Your Summer with H.O.P.E. - Tshirt Review

I received product for review.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

Start your summer feeling loved! With the daily challenges of life, a simple reminder that you're not alone can make all the difference. Gift yourself or a loved one with a message of H.O.P.E. (Hang On Pray Everyday)!   Whether you are looking for products to inspire yourself and others or to help a friend or loved one through challenging times, spread H.O.P.E. with HOPE IN A Box

Romans 12 LLC is a Christian, family business focused on spreading H.O.P.E. (Hang On Pray Everyday).  A portion of their profits go to life, marriage, and family affirming ministries that offer hope.   

I don't consider myself overly religious but I am strong in my faith. I may not throw a Bible or spew scripture at you, but I will never deny my Christian belief.  I received a white H.O.P.E. logo tshirt from HOPE IN A BOX and I wear it proudly.  The shirt itself is Hanes brand and is made to be worn by a male or female.  On the front is the H.O.P.E. logo with the words "Hang On Pray Everyday" underneath.  The acronym is catchy.  The back summarizes the Romans 12:12 Bible verse "Rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer".  It's a very strong message that holds deep meaning for me and lets others know where I stand with my beliefs.  The shirt is designed in a way that grabs the reader's attention and hopefully makes them stop to think about what it says.

The apparel and accessories that HOPE IN A BOX carries is a positive way to show your love for Jesus and show others where you stand.  They also serve as a reminder to always have hope during summer and all other seasons.

The Dog Who Saved Summer - DVD Review and Giveaway

I received DVD for review.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

 

A paws-itively delightful treat for the whole family, The Dog Who Saved Summer arrives on DVD and On Demand June 2 and is available in Digital HD now from Anchor Bay Entertainment. Mario Lopez (“Extra” host, “Saved by the Bell”), Dean Cain (“Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman”), Gary Valentine (“The King of Queens,” Paul Blart: Mall Cop 1 and 2, Jack & Jill), Elisa Donovan (Clueless, “Sabrina the Teenage Witch”), Patrick Muldoon (Starship Troopers) and Joey “Coco” Diaz (The Longest Yard) reprise their roles in the sixth installment of the popular franchise and are joined once again by director Sean Robert Olson and screenwriters Michael Ciminera and Richard Gnolfo. The hilarious fun-in-the-sun comedy also stars Martin Kove (“Cagney & Lacey,” The Karate Kid), Francesca Capaldi (“Dog with a Blog”), Cole Jensen (“Crash & Bernstein”) and the voice of William Zabka (The Karate Kid).

Synopsis: 

 When former police K-9 Zeus (voiced by Lopez) accidentally destroys an important party, the Bannister family decides it’s time to send him to obedience school. Classes start off on the wrong paw when the no-nonsense instructor Vernon (Kove) and his Marine K-9 assistant Apollo (voiced by Zabka) fail Zeus on every lesson. Fearing the pound may be his next stop, Zeus and the Bannister children (Capaldi and Jensen) enlist help from a janitor who teaches them his unique training methods that could help Zeus win “Top Dog” at the school’s showcase. Meanwhile, a familiar trio of bumbling burglars (Cain, Muldoon and Diaz) is planning a daring diamond heist. Zeus must outsmart the thieves, as well as his hard-nosed instructor, in order to win the big tournament and foil the jewelry robbery before it’s too late.

My Review:

 

Cute, cute, cute! I found this The Dog Who Saved Summer to be a fun movie to watch with the whole family.  An adorable dog whose voice is narrated by Mario Lopez, lots of energy and antics, and slapstick comedy kept us captivated while watching this film.

The story tells of a dog named Zeus who is sent to obedience school.  He doesn't fare so well there.  A janitor helps Zeus set his skills straight so he can be a worthy dog.  Zeus is also caught in the middle of a planned jewel robbery and, in the end, shows his family he's worth keeping. 

The film is predictable and some of the scenes are campy but, overall, The Dog Who Saved Summer is an enjoyable film that kids will probably get a kick out of. Viewers will root for Zeus, and the heartfelt theme that family bonds matter will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy.

Win It!

One person will win The Dog Who Saved Summer on DVD.

*This is a Rafflecopter giveaway open to residents of the USA.*

 

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Wordful Wednesday - Cherished Gifts

 

I have great respect and huge admiration for my uncles.  Unfortunately, I don't get to see them very often.  Saturday, when I learned one would be somewhat nearby, I jumped at the chance to see him.  It had been four years since I last saw uncle John.

 

My uncle John and his lady used to be in the business of making handmade rag rugs.  They are created with afghan or blue jean pieces from a large wooden loom.  Both retired from the business seven years ago but have made the decision to come back this year part-time. 

 

Back when they were in the full swing of things, John and Selma had a large customer fan base.  John has been featured in several calendars and historical magazines.  It's most likely because he looks Amish and would always have his large wooden loom on hand to show how he made the rugs.

52" woven rug made from afghan pieces

This particular rug sells for $41

 

While I was there to see them at the arts and craft show Saturday, John insisted I have one of his rugs.  I was honored that he wanted to give me a piece of his work.  After going through the selections, I chose one to match my living room décor.  In addition, I was given one of Selma's small handmade dolls.  I was overjoyed to have been given the gifts.  They are special reminders of an amazing couple who I love dearly.

Power Rangers Super Megaforce: Sky Strike - DVD Giveaway

I received no product or compensation for this post.  This post is in partnership with PR firm.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

The longest running and most-watched kids action series in television history continues with Power Rangers Super Megaforce: Sky Strike arriving on DVD (plus Digital), Digital HD and On Demand June 9 from Lionsgate Home Entertainment. In these five action packed episodes, the iconic Power Rangers, Troy, Noah, Emma, Jake and Orion must work together to save the world when Vrak returns to annihilate our planet. The Power Rangers Super Megaforce: Sky Strike DVD will be available for the suggested retail price of $14.98.

The Power Rangers are in for the fight of their lives as they battle their greatest enemies yet -- dimension-hopping Professor Cog, Prince Vekar's mighty Armada Megazord, Emperor Mavro and his Royal Guard, and Damaras, the most lethal warrior in the universe! When Vrak returns, transformed and more powerful than ever, he will turn one of the Power Rangers' most trusted allies against them -- the Super Megaforce team will never be the same after facing Dark Robo Knight!

Win It!

 

One person will win Power Rangers Super Megaforce: Sky Strike DVD.

 

*This is a Rafflecopter giveaway open to residents of the USA.*

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Australian Gold SPF Lotion with Kona Coffee Bronzer - Review

I received product for review.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

Shelby showcasing Australian Gold

Finally, the long-awaited spring break is here! After a brutal winter that hit most of the country, it’s time to pack your bags and head somewhere to soak up the sun, lounge by the pool and relax.  It’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s harsh rays. But, it is even more important to do it in style. With its UVA and UVB protection, the Australian Gold SPF 15 Lotion with Kona Coffee Bronzer will be the one of the most sought after beach products.

Australian Gold SPF Lotion with Kona Coffee Bronzer delivers sun protection with instant, natural-looking color.  Shelby uses it often and sits out in the sun to receive a subtle glow.  The bronzer provides sun protection while delivering a sun-kissed look at the same time.  It has the signature Australian Gold fragrance, which Shelby is familiar with and really likes.  As with any other bronzer, this one has to be applied in a smooth, consistent fashion all over the skin in order for the bronzer to look natural.  Shelby is very pleased with the results of this bronzer and that it helps protects her skin from harmful UV rays. 

Skinvolve Body Boost Gel and Body Karate Cream - #skinsmarts Review and Discount

I received products for review.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

 

Up until about five or six years ago, I didn't take very good care of my skin.  I did not have a skincare regimen and paid little attention to moisturizing or toning.  Reality sunk in once I started noticing the wrinkles, sagging, and under eye circles.  Since then, I've tried several products to help replenish my skin and keep it from aging so fast.  Some of those products have been very beneficial; others haven't.

 

A short time ago I was introduced to Skinvolve, a skincare line that slims, tones, and helps reduce the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks.  Skinvolve ingredients are paraben and sulfate free.  They market two products, Body Boost Gel and Body Karate Cream. 

The Body Boost Gel is formulated to release “fat cells” within your skin to give you tighter, smoother skin, free of lumps and bumps. It works through the stimulating ingredients used and the concentration of each ingredient.  Ginseng, Green Tea, Guarana, Menthol, Aloe Vera, & Vitamins A,B,C,E are the boosting properties.   Massaging into skin alongside daily use and healthy diet are key to see results.   Body Boost Gel is green in color and has a cooling sensation when applied. 

The Body Karate Cream is a daily lotion blended with Pure Caffeine and Argan Oil to moisturize, improve skin texture and tone. Caffeine helps boost circulation while Argan oil nurtures skin with its anti-aging and hydrating properties. Body Karate Cream boasts two powerful ingredients to keep skin hydrated, toned and smooth. A Middle Eastern ancient oil, Argan Oil, fights dry skin problems through it’s fatty acid content and keeps skin youthful through it’s anti-aging properties. Caffeine, when topically applied stimulates and tones skin. Consistent use alongside healthy diet will help skin stay strong, deeply moisturized and toned.  It is white in color and has a silky smooth feel when applied.

When used together daily, the Body Karate Cream and the Body Boost Gel really seem to be making my skin look and feel so much better.  I like how my skin seems more refreshed and toned.  The products are not miracle creams and won't completely reverse the signs of aging, but I'm satisfied with how my skin has an improved look and feel when I use Skinvolve.

Discount code:  Use code BLOGLUV15 at checkout to receive 15% off your order at Skinvolve.

Minuscule: Valley of the Lost Ants - #kaboomkids DVD Review and Giveaway

I received DVD for review.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

Synopsis:

After a couple leaves their picnic in a hurry, a gang of hungry ants moves in to steal what could be their most coveted treasure: a tin box filled with sugar cubes. But before they can get away with the loot, a newly-born ladybug strays from its own family and gets trapped inside the box! The ladybug is soon spirited away by the ants as they try to transport their prize across the woods toward their colony. Together, the insects embark on an epic journey to protect their sugar.

Fun Facts About Minuscule:

•Minuscule: Valley of the Lost Ants is a 2013 France/Belgium animated film, co-written and directed by Hélène Giraud and Thomas Szabo

•The film has been a huge box office success worldwide: France, Poland, Korea, Czech Republic, Switzerland and more

•Created by the same animated studio that produced Dragon Hunters

•Feature is based off the TV show ‘Minuscule - The Private Life of Insects’

•Series aired on the Disney Channel in the U.S.

My Review:

Miniscule: Valley of the Lost Ants tells of a war between black ants and red ants.  They are at odds with each other, and even more so when a tin of sugar cubes enters the scene.  Added in to the mix is a heroic ladybug whose intention wasn't to get caught in the middle.

Miniscule: Valley of the Lost Ants has only the dialogue of a narrator, Richard Dreyfuss.  His narrations are interesting enough and keep viewers tuned in.  Music and sound effects are used to convey the bugs' thoughts and emotions.  There's a good amount of whistling, clanking, and other non-verbal chatter.  A couple of high whistles here and there unnerved me a little but, other than that, I like how the story was told.  Although there are scenes of ants doing battle with each other, it's not done in bloodthirsty form.  Everyday household objects like crayons and paper clips are used for weaponry.  It's an absorbing movie with charming visuals.

Win It!

One person will win Miniscule: Valley of the Lost Ants on DVD.

*This is a Rafflecopter giveaway open to residents of the USA.*

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Three More May Winners

Three of my giveaways have ended and the winners have been randomly drawn.

The winner of the Daddy Loves You So Much book giveaway is #17, Xty C.

The winner of the Animal Mouths book giveaway is #1, Kristen.

The winner of the Wrestling For My Life book giveaway is #1, Sue Hull.

Congrats to the winners and thanks to all who entered.  Be sure to check out my currently active giveaways, listed at the top left hand side of my blog.  There's no limit to how many you can enter or how many you can win.

Skippy Salted Caramel Candy Bar Cookies - #HormelFamily

I received products as part of the Hormel Foods Extended Family.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

SKIPPY® has really went and done it this time! Their peanut butter is amazing to begin with, but the addition of salted caramel this year really takes it to the top. The overall flavor combination is remarkable. I've used SKIPPY Salted Caramel Peanut Butter as a sandwich spread, but went further with it and used it as an ingredient in a cookie recipe.  Very delish, if I do say so myself!

Skippy Salted Caramel Candy Bar Cookies

Ingredients:

1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. butter
1/4 c. Skippy Salted Caramel Peanut Butter
1 egg
1 1/2 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla
1 pkg. mini (or "fun-size") milk chocolate candy bars
1/2 c. peanuts, chopped

Directions:

Mix together sugar, brown sugar, butter, peanut butter, egg, flour baking powder, baking soda, and vanilla.  Chill dough in refrigerator for approximately one hour.  Then remove dough and mix in chopped peanuts.

Cut each candy bar in three pieces.  Wrap a piece of cookie dough around each piece of candy bar.  Dough balls should be about the size of a walnut.  Bake at 375 degrees for 10 to 13 minutes.  Remove from oven and flatten with a spatula.

Snuggle® All-New Booster® Scents - Review

I received products for review.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

As the summer season ushers in more sunshine and crisp air, Snuggle® understands the importance of bringing these outdoor aromas into the home as well. The brand introduces two new, refreshing Scents of Summer to the Scent Booster® lineup – Wild Orchid Wonder® and Island Dream® – giving laundry a burst of long-lasting freshness.

New Snuggle® Scent Boosters Wild Orchid Wonder® combines vanilla and enticing wild orchid in a scent pac that just needs to be tossed into the washer for a boost of freshness. It is best paired with Wild Orchid & Vanilla liquid and sheets.

New Snuggle® Scent Boosters and Exhilarations Island Collection® includes Island Dream Scent Booster® and Island Hibiscus & Rainflower® liquid softener and dryer sheets to soften, freshen and control static. The new scent is inspired by tropical island scents and essence.

Ever have laundry smell so good that you just want to stand there inhaling the scent forever? That's exactly how I feel when I use Snuggle Scent Boosters. 

Snuggle Scent Boosters are concentrated pacs of scent boosters, and they are very easy to add to the laundry. One regular load takes one pack and a large load takes two. There are approximately 25  pacs to each package. All you have to do is plop them in the washing machine at the start of the wash. The pac dissolve themselves and the only thing left behind in the end is an extraordinary smell.  The scent is noticeable and long-lasting. Snuggle Scent Boosters are a quick, convenient way to make my laundry smell disernibly fresh with a pleasing fragrance.

Bear Naked Granola - #LiveBearNaked Review

I received product for review from Influenster.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

It wasn't until quite recently that I've started paying attention to the food I consume.  I'm still not a health nut, but I have been more conscious of what goes in my body.  I'm pretty sure it's thanks to a co-worker who is very aware of ingredients in foods.  I'll never be as self-controlled as she is, but I'm more aware.  Baby steps, baby steps.

Recently I was introduced to Bear Naked, a company who markets granola.  They use ingredients from nature, and make them taste good.  There are several different varieties, and the two I tried are Coconut Almond Curry and Sea Salt Caramel Apple.

 

Coconut Almond Curry was a mix of soft-baked granola, coconut, whole almonds and cashews, blended together with the spicy zang of Eastern curry.  Sea Salt Caramel Apple tasted just like the name implies. It had the sweetness of caramel with the tart and tanginess of an apple, topped with savory sea salt.  Both granolas had a crunchy texture with an unusual, yet delicious, combination of flavors.  Although they tasted all right by themselves, I enjoyed them more when added in with yogurt.  The ingredients are recognizable, and the packages are re-sealable to pack in the freshness. 

Primate School - Children's Book Review and Giveaway

I received book for review from Arbordale Publishing.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

Gorillas using iPads, lemurs finger painting, squirrel monkeys blowing bubbles...these primates are pretty smart! Could you make the grade in Primate School? Learn how diverse the primate family is, and some of the ways humans are teaching new skills to their primate cousins. Author Jennifer Keats Curtis is once again working with organizations across the country to share fun facts about primates through this photo journal.

My Review:

Orangutans, apes, monkeys and gorillas have always fascinated me.  When visiting the zoo, I spend a lot of time at the primate exhibits.  I'm mesmerized by how "human" some primates behave.  In Primate School, readers get a realistic view of different primate species.  The pages are filled with engaging photos and interesting material.  Children will learn what a primate is and their characteristics.  Primate School also gives a glimpse of how zoos train and handle primates.

The "For Creative Minds" section in the back of the book delves into Endangered Species, allows children to determine if a certain animal is a primate or not, gives a glimpse on what enrichment is offered to primates in the zoo, and briefs on chimpanzee sounds and calls.

Win It!

 

One person will win a book copy of Primate School.

 

*This is a Rafflecopter giveaway open to residents of the USA.*

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This Land is Your Land - Children's Book Review and Giveaway

I received book for review from Arbordale Publishing.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

Take a trip around the world to discover a wide variety of Earth’s landforms and geological features through the rhythmic verse in This Land is Your Land. On the journey encounter plains, plateaus, and rolling hills. Find out how a stream can make a canyon or lava creates an archipelago. Read aloud and discover new terrain with the flip of each page.

My Review:

Told in cadence form, This Land is Your Land details and illustrates geographic areas and why they're called what they are.  Children will get a grasp of what valleys and plains look like, as well as peninsulas and islands.  There are illustrations within the illustrations that give an idea of the expanse and make-up of landforms.  It's catchy with its wording and refined with its examples.

The "For Creative Minds" section in the back of the book further educates with information on Earth Movers, Landform Sorting, Landform Matching, and Map Skills.

Win It!

 

One person will win a book copy of This Land is Your Land.

 

*This is a Rafflecopter giveaway open to residents of the USA.*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

More May Winners

A few of my giveaways have ended and the winners have been randomly drawn.

The winner of the Neuschwanstin Castle 3D Puzzle giveaway is #17, Kristen.

The winner of the Shark Vacuum giveaway is #61, Emily Endrizzi.

The winner of the CASE book and toy giveaway is #15, Shelly Leatham.

The winner of the Strawberry Shortcake DVD giveaway is #3, Xty C.

The winner of the Matthew West CD giveaway is #8, Lauren.

The winner of the Gummi Bears Should Not Be Organic book giveaway is #13, Jennifer Cervantes.

Congrats to the winners and thanks to all who entered.  Be sure to check out my active giveaways, all listed at the top left hand side of my blog.  There's no limit to how many you can enter or how many you can win.

Coming Home - Children's Picture Book Giveaway

I received no product or compensation for this post.  This post is in partnership with PR firm.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

Memorial Day is approaching- and while BBQs and picnics take over our thoughts, it's important to remember that the true reason for the holiday is a celebration of those who have served our country.

Greg Ruth's incredibly poignant picture book, COMING HOME, beautifully illustrates the story of a young boy waiting to reunite with his military parent at the airport. It's garnered immense praise from outlets like The New York Times, who wrote, “Coming Home makes as strong a case as a picture book can for visual storytelling, and for making few words count.”

As long as American troops are serving overseas, there will be children waiting to be reunited with them. In Ruth's nearly wordless picture book, readers follow the anxious progress of a young boy in a red T-shirt as he looks through the crowds of returning veterans and their loved ones. Along with him, there's a border collie dashing into its owner's arms, a man tenderly touching the belly of a pregnant woman, tight embraces, and comradely photo shoots. Ruth's skillful depiction of a variety of people simultaneously experiencing joyful reunions culminates in a wildly exuberant "MOM!" as the boy spots the person he's been searching for. Respectful and as handsome as it is useful, this book has a place in most collections.—Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Library, NY

Win It!

One person will win a hardcover book copy of Coming Home.

*This is a Rafflecopter giveaway open to residents of the USA.*

  

a Rafflecopter giveaway