Potette Portable Potty - Review and Giveaway

Brandon

I've been watching my nephew, Brandon, for some time now on Wednesdays while his dad goes to a game night.  Brandon is now at the age where he's starting to potty train.  It's been a work in progress but we're getting there.  To help aid in the process while I have Brandon, we've been using the Potette Portable Potty from Kalencom.

 

Ideal for travel and fully collapsible, this potty training system is available in an array of colors and includes completely sanitary utilizing disposable liners.  Extra liners can be purchased separately.

The Potette USA portable potty can be used as a trainer seat on the toilet or as a stand-alone portable seat.  To use on a toilet, all you have to do is unfold the legs and position the seat on the front half of the toilet seat.  To use as a portable potty, unfold the legs and place a liner inside the potty.  Position the child on the potty and let them do their thing.  After use, unlock handles and dispose of the liner as you would any disposable diaper.  There's a storage bag included with the Potette so you can fold it up and take it with you.

I've been helping potty train Brandon with the Kalencom Potette 2-in-1 Trainer Seat and there's been a couple of times that his dad has borrowed it to use when he takes Brandon on an outing.  It took a couple times for Brandon to get used to the seat but he's become familiar with it and has become comfortable going potty on it.  When he's at my house, I use the seat atop the toilet.  When he's out and about, Brandon can use the seat with the liners.  Then I just take the liners and dispose of them in the trash.  I like that Potette is a 2-in-1 system and easy to use.  

The only disapproval I have is that the storage bag is thick plastic.  It works and does the job but would like if there was the option to purchase a Potette "wet bag" that's a little thicker.  The disposable liners have disappearing ink, as a motivational tool for kids.  That's been a big help in encouraging Brandon to pee in the potty.  

Win It!

One person will win  $50 Potette credit.  (This will allow you to get $50 worth of Potette products online for free.)

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

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.

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More June Giveaway Winners

Photo by Jason Dent on Unsplash

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

The winner of the Photography Trivia Deck giveaway is #11, Donna.

The winner of the Smurfs DVD giveaway is #15, Tandi.

The winner of the Salonpas giveaway is #2, Kim Avery.

The winner of The Official Britney Spears Coloring Book giveaway is #3, Dynal R.

Congrats to the winners and thanks to all who entered!

Father's Day 2022

Jason and Allyson

Father's Day this year was pretty low-key but we had a great time being with family and friends.  Jason's oldest daughter, Allyson, invited us over for a cookout of grilled steak, corn on the cob, cookies, baked potatoes, and watermelon.

 

Has a glare from the sun, but this is Jason's gift from Henry.

Allyson and Russ purchased their first home less than a month ago and it was my first time seeing the place.  Must say, they did well!  

Henry chowing down on some food.

We got to spend some time with our grandson, Henry.  He's growing so quickly. (Make it stop!)  Russ also had his daughter, Ginny, there.  Russ' father and grandfather also stopped by to eat.  So did Allyson's bio mother, Amanda.  It took several years for us to be able to get together and do things with Jason's ex.  But we've all grown and matured.  I get along quite well with Jason's ex and it's nice that Allyson can have an event with both her mother and step-mother there.

Russ and Ginny

Jason received a framed photo of Henry's daycare picture.  Of course, I was excited about it too.  Jason received some new boxer briefs and spices/seasonings from me.  

My father passed away in 2005 so Father's Day is somewhat bittersweet for me.  But spending time with people I love while eating great food made it a perfect day.

Jason and Henry spent some time "squirrel hunting" and Jason taught Henry how to make squirrel sounds.

How did you spend Father's Day this year?

Middle of Month Blog Giveaway Winners

Photo by Yoksel 🌿 Zok on Unsplash

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

The Winner of the Royal Trivia book giveaway is #3, Jim.

The winner of the PAW Patrol DVD giveaway is #13, Ellie Wright.

The winner of the There Are Moms Way Worse Than You book giveaway is #10, Jennifer C.

The winner of the 3-month Pure Flix Subscription giveaway is #4, Charlene S.

Congrats to the winners and thanks to all who entered.  Be sure to keep an eye out for upcoming giveaways and enter the current ones.  There's lots of fun prizes to be won!

Family Camp - DVD Giveaway

 PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The hilarious family-comedy, Family Camp arrives on DVD , Digital and Video on Demand on June 28 from Lionsgate. The film follows two families competing for the coveted camp trophy while the dads try to keep their families and marriages together.  Directed and written by Brian Cates (TV’s The Glory of Christmas, Super Dads), Family Camp will be available for the suggested retail prices for DVD is $19.98, Digital $14.99 and Video On Demand for $5.99.

 OFFICIAL SYNOPSIS

When Grace Ackerman signs her family up for a rustic summer Family Camp, a comedy of errors ensues as these polar-opposite families must share a yurt and compete for the camp’s coveted games trophy. It’s not until the two dads end up lost in the woods that their faith and family bonds are truly tested in this heartwarming family comedy.

DVD SPECIAL FEATURES

Trailer

Heart of Family Camp

Who Are the Skit Guys?

Deleted Scenes

Deleted Scenes with Director Commentary

Rhett Walker Goes Behind the Scenes

Eddie’s Yurt Tour

Win It!

One person will win Family Camp on DVD.

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

I received no 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.

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Weekends at Woodyz Acres

Camp yard that's been "flocked"

As most of you already know, I spend most of my weekends at Woodyz Acres RV Park & Campground from April to November.  We have a permanent campsite and our camper stays there year-round.  This is our third year camping there.  

David cooking Reuben sandwiches on the Blackstone

This year I've missed a couple of weekends due to vacay and illness, but it's already had its fair share of fun, food, trail rides, Bingo, Cornhole, and lots more.  There's a large group of us (that seems to keep growing and growing) that get together every Friday night, Saturday morning, and Saturday night for food.  There's always at least 25 of us stuffing our faces during each meal.  Between the Blackstone, gas grill, smoker, and charcoal grill we've got ample ways to cook.

camper selfie

This year, I've become the "official" Bingo Caller every Saturday afternoon.  I've also joined forces with a few other girls to plan activities for each weekend.  If we're not busy with all that, we usually get together to play Left Right Center, ride the trails, or drink a few cocktails.

  

Our Bingo system may be old-fashioned but it gets the job done.

To help raise money for activities this year, we've started "flocking" people's yards with flamingos.  In order to have the pests removed, people have to pay a donation.  They then get to decide whose site gets flocked next.

Kids are not left out on the fun.  Every Saturday is a Candy Bar Bingo and a movie at night on an outdoor screen.  There's also a pool that's quite popular.  A couple weekends ago, adults and kids got together for a cardboard car game.  Each person had their own cardboard box and had to decorate it at each pit stop with wheels, taillights, and other car parts.  It's nice to see the kids out and about on their bikes, fishing, or actually communicating with each other rather than have their heads in some device.  As I've always said, "A little dirt never hurt!"

one of the adults in his cardboard car

So far, there's been one band play this year.  I can't remember the name of the guys (and wouldn't call them out publicly if I did) but they were baaaad.  I wanted to stab my ears with a pencil just to make it stop.  It's great and grand that they knew how to play an instrument but a guitar and drum solo can go on for only so long.  

our Side X Side needs its own car wash

I can't say there's not a fair share of drama from time to time.  There's a couple old campground friends that are hell-bent on tattling on me and Jason if we fart wrong.  I'm surprised they want to put so much energy into their lives to try to make ours miserable.  It's not working out much for them, by the way.

eggs, sausage links, sausage patties, and seasoned potatoes for breakfast

We've got a few more months of camping left for the season and I'm excited to see what's ahead!

The Official Britney Spears Coloring Book - Review and Giveaway

Overview:

From “…Baby One More Time” to the Las Vegas stage, there’s no shortage of iconic Britney Spears moments. Now, color your way through the late 1990s to today with these gorgeous coloring pages based on the best of Britney. This book includes classic song lyrics, unforgettable album covers, stunning performance looks, and more!

The Official Britney Spears Coloring Book is the ultimate way to pay tribute to the Princess of Pop and the perfect gift for any Britney fan. So hit that Britney playlist one more time, grab your pens, and get coloring!

My Review:

Whether we were fans of her back in the day or have been keeping up with her conservatorship and legal battles, I think it's safe to say Britney Spears is someone we are all familiar with.  Personally, I think she's got great vocals and has paid for her past mistakes.  That aside, who wouldn't want an adult coloring book of the famous pop icon and her lyrics?!

I jumped on the hobby of adult coloring books back in 2016 and have acquired quite a collection.  I've found that coloring is calming and brings down my stress level. I have a tiered container full of gel pens, markers and colored pencils that have been used upon many coloring pages.  With any other hobby, there are some products that are better than others.  The Official Britney Spears Coloring Book is middle-of-the-ground for me.  I like most of the illustrations, but would prefer more detail in others.  

Each page is one-sided, meaning the illustrations are only on one side.  I like it this way so that what I'm coloring with doesn't bleed through to the other pages.  I'd prefer if the pages were perforated but there's still enough leeway on each one to carefully cut or tear them out without cutting into the design.  The paper quality the book is favorable for coloring pencils, pens, markers, and other utensils.  Although I haven't completed the entire book yet, I have enjoyed coloring some of the pictures and "connecting" with Britney. 

Win It!

One person will win The Official Britney Spears Coloring Book.

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

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.

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Life Lately - Sinus Infection and Baby Shower

 

The past few days have been hell.  I'm just now feeling semi-sorta normal again.  I came down with the worst sinus infection I've ever had and it knocked me on my arse.  I went to the Walk-In Clinic twice, once on Thursday and again on Sunday.  After having three shots in the butt and enough meds to fill a pharmacy, I'm finally getting on the upside of things.  I was coughing and throwing up so much that I could barely speak; I was losing my voice.  I pissed myself every time I coughed, so you can imagine how many pants I went through.  I'm sure stock in Kleenex went through the roof.  Good times!

Funny side story:  One of my antibiotics came with a verbal warning from the nurse..."Don't run with these pills. Could cause appendix rupture.." Good thing I don't run, and don't have an appendix!

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Sabrina and Winston

Last Sunday I held a small baby shower in my home for my son, Logan, and his lady, Sabrina.  Of course, Winston had to be there to support his human brother.  It was a co-ed shower with about 15 people in attendance.  Sabrina is due at the end of this month, and I'm more than excited to have another grandson to spoil.

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None of my numbers got called!

Last month I went to Quincy Quarter Madness with my friend, to support Special Olympics.  I can't explain exactly how it works, but the main gist is that you purchase paddles with numbers on them.  Then there's a huge list of donated items.  If you want to bid on that item to win, you put in the requested amount of quarters.  I lost a bunch of quarters that night, but won a good time.

me and Rebecca at Quarter Madness

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When me and Rebecca went on vacay, we ordered Starbucks drinks on our way out of town.  I'm thinking I should be salty that her sticker said "You're the Best" and mine said "Keep Trying".  

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This Side X Side is going to be the death of me.  Jason has a stiffy for taking it out on the trails at camp.  That's all fine and dandy; I don't even mind going with once in a while.  But, him and his buddies ride it so hard that it either comes out looking like it's been immersed in mud (cuz it has!) or a part breaks and we've gotta buy a new one.  I can't...I just can't.

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How have you been lately?  

Have any fun summer activities planned?

Flavor Your Food with Casa M Spices - Review

 

More than food itself, me and my husband are most interested in delicious condiments, spices and sauces. I think it's because we like to add a variety of flavors to our food. For example, pork chops can be enjoyed in a variety of ways if you dress them up with different tastes and flavor textures.  Jason's been having a prime time creating dishes with some of the Casa M Spice collection.

This insane amount of fried chicken was cooked just last weekend by Jason, and he used the Casa M Spice Free Range Chicken Seasoning on it.  We ate it, along with several people at the campground, and it was amazingly delicious!  The seasoning definitely put it at superior quality.

The flavor profiles of Casa M Spice blends for chicken, pork, beef, lamb, fish, and vegetables have been perfected over the course of two decades and are now available for consumers to share with family and friends at every meal. With a fraction of the salt in typical spice blends, Casa M lets home cooks spice confidently while controlling the amount of salt. 

The Casa M collection of cleverly named spice blends includes Chain Reaction, a season-all, Cattle Drive for beef, Free Range for chicken, Good Shepherd for lamb, Hooked for fish and seafood, Jerked Chain a jerk seasoning, Pecking Order for poultry, and Whole Hog for pork. All of Casa M’s premium spice blends are low or very low sodium, keto-friendly, free of dairy, nut, and soy, and contain no fillers, MSG, Gluten, or animal products. They are made in the great state of Texas.

 Casa M Spices are available in major grocery stores throughout the Southern U.S, in many specialty retailers, and on Amazon in a variety of formats including a plastic shaker (1 cup, MSRP $11.99), a stainless steel shaker (1 cup, MSRP $16.99), a refill bag (1 cup, MSRP $9.99), and a bulk bag (1 pound, MSRP $22.99).

Not only have we flavored chicken with Casa M Spices, we've also used them on pork chops, cube steaks, and hamburgers.  I like that the pouches and containers show the heat level of each spice.  

Father's Day is coming up, ya know.  I think Casa M Spice collection would make a great gift for the dad in your life.  Or, if you like to experiment with different flavor profiles, Casa M Spice is the place to purchase different spices.

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.

Restaurant Recommendation: Lambert's Cafe

 

servers throwing the rolls

Towards the end of May, Rebecca and I went on a road trip to Arkansas.  While there, we passed through The Ozarks in Missouri.  We stopped upon Lambert's Cafe for lunch and it was one of the best places I've been to eat.  

Lambert's is a folksy local chain with classic Southern-American fare & "throwed rolls." The cafe is located in three locations: Sikeston, Missouri, Ozark, Missouri, and Foley, Alabama.  Who do I need to get in contact with to get one in our town?!

my main meal

There was a 20-minute wait to get seated.  The place was packed, and I can definitely see why.  There is a gift shop adjacent to the restaurant selling branded merchandise.  I picked up a koozie, mug, matches, and pen.

I wanna go back!

The menu itself features an extensive collection of oh-so-good food.  But, fret not, you will be full by the time your meal even arrives.  Servers are constantly coming around offering free macaroni in tomato sauce, black eyed peas, fried okra, fried potatoes and onions, and the "famous" rolls.  You can't be afraid to catch a hot roll being thrown at you!  If it hits the ground, try for another.

Rebecca

Have you ever been to a Lambert's Cafe?  If not, go...just go!

'Going Home' Now Available on Pure Flix - #GoingHomeMIN #PureFlix #PureFlixVIPAmbassador #MomentumInfluencerNetwork Review and Giveaway

Pure Flix is a streaming media platform where you can view thousands of faith and family-friendly movies, shows, and documentaries.  One series that was recently added to Pure Flix is 'Going Home'.  Released on June 2, this series follows an inspiring team of nurses who help guide patients and loved ones on the ultimate journey – one of transition from this world to their forever home. It’s a race against time as the team must help their clients find peace and wrap up loose ends with compassion and dignity.

• Stream this powerful and moving show about family, faith and salvation as one journey ends and another begins.

• With themes of courage, forgiveness, and faith, “Going Home” is a show you won’t want to miss!

• Featuring Charisma Carpenter from “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Angel”.

• Synopsis: Everyone has a calling from God and Charley’s purpose is to help people transition from this world to their forever home. Watch this heartfelt series that will inspire you to think deeper about your relationships and how you can live well with the time we’re all blessed with. God gives everyone a calling – and for Charley, it’s to help families during one of the most difficult times of their lives. 

So far, I've watched the first episode of 'Going Home' and I have no doubt I'll be watching more.  In the first episode, Charley was named Hospice Nurse of the Year and she shares her thoughts on her job and how they work as a team. Death is a journey and the Sunset House treat death as a journey and believe everyone deserves a good death and a helping hand from the staff on the journey.  They work through grief and self-blame with patients.  Charley shows great faith when she prays to God for guidance and peace, rather than miracles. This show brings out emotions and calls you to think about how you'd reach out to God if faced with these situations.

Win It!

One person will win a 3-month Pure Flix subscription.

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

Many thanks to Pure Flix for providing a sample of the product for this 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.

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The Photography Trivia Deck - Review and Giveaway

Overview:

Think you know photography? Quiz yourself and friends with this deck of cards packed with fascinating facts and mind-blowing trivia all about photography history, famous shooters, and technical equipment and knowledge.

Each card features a variety of questions of varying difficulty and subjects. Whether played as a game with others or as a personal challenge, players will learn more than they ever thought possible about photography. The Photography Trivia Deck makes the perfect gift for any camera enthusiast.

My Review:

I'll be the first to say I'm no expert when it comes to photography.  I pretty much know the basics.  But, I do love a good trivia game, and learning new interesting facts.

The Photography Trivia Deck comes with 80 cards that have 240 questions.  The cards come in a sturdy box that looks like a camera.  It is super simple to play, and the questions range from easy to hard.  The questions and answers are on the same side of the card, so you don't have to flip a card over to read a question or answer.  Going through the deck, trivia players will answer questions about famous photographers, the history of photography, and terms and technology involving photography.

Here's an example of some of the questions and answers (so you can get a feel of what it's about):

1.  What is the term used to describe loss of image definition due to excessive brightness?

A: Blooming

2.  Which prolific photographer also directed the movie Shaft?

A.  Gordon Parks

3.  What does JPEG stand for?

A.  Joint Photographic Experts Group

I went on a long road trip with a friend just a couple weeks ago.  She and I played this game one night while hanging out in the cabin.  I've also played it with a group of friends at the campground.  It's fun trivia that enlightens and entertains.

Win It!

One person will win The Photography Trivia Deck.

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

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.

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Shop at eShakti and Save $50

 At eShakti, a woman can shop for exactly what she wants - no compromise, no premium to pay. She can ask for the fabric, color, body, styling and sizing that she likes. Never again will a woman have to hear that her size is not available.  The apparel at eShakti can be ordered to exact specifications or in a size and style already on the site.

Shop at eShakti and receive $50 OFF your first order! Your $50 benefit will be auto-applied at checkout. Additionally, you will be covered under their fit guarantee program for free. In case you unhappy with the fit, eShakti will offer a free remake to get you the perfect fit.  I've previously ordered a couple dresses and some blouses from eShakti and have been pleased with their apparel.

This post contains affiliate links.  The opinions within this post are of my own.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

The Smurfs: Season 1, Volume 1: DVD Giveaway

The blue crew returns to Smurf village in a brand-new series on Nickelodeon, The Smurfs! Get ready to adventure with Smurfette, Papa Smurf, Gargamel, and more in nine fun-filled episodes!

The Smurfs: Season 1, Volume 1 will be available on DVD from Paramount Home Entertainment and Nickelodeon Home Entertainment on June 14, 2022, for the suggested retail price of $10.99.

The Smurfs: Season 1, Volume 1 episodes:

Smurf-Fu / Diaper Daddy

Who nose? / Clumsy not Clumsy 

Unsmurfable Smile / Mind the cat

Where’s Papa Smurf? / Who’s Heftier? 

Smurfs in disguise / Joke’s on you

The Scariest Smurf / DRIIINNGGGGG!

My Smurf the Hero / Alien Smurf

Smurf your seat belts! / Leaf it alone

Bringing up Smurfy / The Makeover

The Smurfs: Season 1, Volume 1 synopsis:

The Smurfs have a new home on Nickelodeon! Join these beloved blue characters as they go on ALL-NEW adventures that will push the charm, absurdity, and humor of the original series to even greater heights! Smurf we go! This volume contains the first 9 episodes of season one in a 1-disc set!

Win It!

One person will win The Smurfs: Season 1, Volume 1 on DVD.

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

I received no 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.

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Salonpas Pain Relief Products - Review and Giveaway

 I'm no stranger to Salonpas.  I've received and used it in the past, especially on my mother when she was alive and living with me.  She suffered with pain, and Salonpas helped ease that.  As much as I hate to admit it, I'm not getting any younger.  And with the rise in age comes the rise in aches and pains.  I don't have any chronic health problems but do suffer from joint and muscle pain from time to time.  Even more, my husband is on his feet all day and works hard as an HVAC Technician.  I'm not saying we're a bunch of living fossils but we have our fair share of hurts between us.

Salonpas is a leader in external analgesic products, and I like it as much now as I have in the past.   The company name Salonpas comes from its active ingredient, Methyl Salicylate.  Methyl Salicylate passes through the skin and goes directly to the site of your pain, right where it hurts.  Their products are intended to provide symptomatic relief of conditions where pain is present.  Gels, patches, and sprays are formulated to administer pain alleviation.  I'm a fan of the entire line but my favorite is the Salonpas DEEP Relieving Gel.  It feels good when it's being applied and makes my body instantly feel better.

The Salonpas Jet Spray is a favorite for Jason.  He mostly uses it on his feet for temporary relief.  It's applied by pointing towards the affected area and spraying.  It contains menthol which provides a cooling sensation.  It dries fairly quickly, and eases the pain.  The Salonpas patches are especially great for back pain.

As with any other pain relief products, there's precautions to follow.  It's important to read and follow directions for each product.  Salonpas does not take the place of the importance of seeing a doctor but their products can and do provide temporary relief for aches and pains.  I, along with others in my household, have benefited and felt the relief.  Salonpas is an alternative for pain sufferers who prefer to avoid the use of oral OTC pain relief medication labeled for only minor aches and pains. Unlike an oral medication, the active ingredients in Salonpas® is absorbed through the skin and go directly to the pain site.

Win It!

One person will win the complete line of Salonpas pain relief products.

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

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.

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