Adorable Moosh-Moosh Stuffed Toys #GiftGuide

December 6, 2018 by 1 Comment

smoosh toys

Do you know someone who loves soft, squishy toys? My son (and my partner) both loft pillow-like toys, especially when they are super soft on the outside. They would be great gifts this holiday season. If you know any kid (or kid at heart) who likes to collect stuffed toys, these are sure to be a hit.

Moosh-Moosh is an adorable new, marshmallow-soft, squishy stuffed animal/pillow. You can use it as either or both (we do). You can find them in the aisles of Michaels Stores or CVS,  Moosh-Moosh comes in quite a few sizes and options. More than three million cuddly characters have been sold since they first came out this year. Cuddle, snuggle, squish or stack these cuties, they are fun to collect as well. Moosh-Moosh makes the perfect December present for stocking stuffers, dreidel game prizes or an under-the-tree surprise.

You can get these soft plushies in a palm-size 4”Clip-on ($5.99) to a huggable 7” Regular ($9.99) to the ultimate 10” Large ($14.99).

Shop for over 72 styles online at Moosh-Moosh.com . You will have a hard time choosing just one, but as with all things, they are better with friends.  These have been hot sellers at neighborhood Staples, JOANN Stores, AC Moore, and Party City, as well as select Hudson News airport stores.

 

Companies that Care- GOOD DEEDS

Behind the Moosh-Moosh logo is a caring company that donates plush buddies as need arises. A Kindergarten teacher in the Washington, DC area was looking for an educator discount to buy her 28 students plushies for reading circle. Imagine her surprise when Sean Price, VP of Business Development and Marketing for parent company MMG Brands, shipped her two dozen soft friends.

A bigger shout out came from Omaha, Nebraska, home of Elliott’s Hoedown for ATCP. After learning about the A-T Children’s Project, MMG Brands donated $11,000 worth of toys! The Midwest charity creates awareness for A-T (a rare, inherited disease that affects several organs and systems, including the nervous and the immune systems) and funnels donations to Johns Hopkins’ A-T clinic in Baltimore, Maryland.

Filed Under: Holiday Gift Guide, review, toys Tagged With: , , , ,

Reindeer In Here book and plush #GiftGuide

December 6, 2018 by 1 Comment

Not everyone is a huge fan of “Elf of the Shelf”, for various reasons. Some people don’t like the elf’s antics, some feel that the kids should not have bad behavior reported to Santa. While I have no such qualms (and our Elf does NOT get into mischief that takes hours of prep time and then more to cleanup, thank you) there is a cute alternative or addition to the Christmas Elf.

elf on the shelf

According to RIH, “Since its 2005 release, Elf on the Shelf has proven to be both a Christmas tradition and commercial success, leading holiday sales charts each year. As time wore on and its popularity grew, the story began to receive criticism from both parents and experts on child psychology.

Owner and creator of Reindeer in Here was looking for a Christmas tradition to start with his own family after the birth of his daughter and quickly discovered that he too became one of the parents questioning the elf’s effectiveness. REINDEER IN HERE is his attempt at providing a friendlier, more positive tool for parents and children to get into the holiday spirit.  As the children bond with their Christmas friend the entire family creates a lasting Christmas tradition as everyone looks forward to REINDEER IN HERE coming back year after year.

“Not only have we shelved the elf,” says Reed. “But in doing so we’ve created LESS STRESS for parents and MORE CHRISTMAS for families across the globe.  I couldn’t be more proud of our little REINDEER IN HERE and all it has accomplished in such a short time.”

“For those ready to change things up,” begins the glowing review by The National Parenting Center, “Reindeer InHere offers a cute, loving and stress-free alternative to help you celebrate the magic of Christmas throughout the month of December.”

Created by a Dad, the Reindeer In Here book and plush “magically” arrive in early December, setting the stage for a new yearly Christmas tradition.  It’s the child’s very first gift of the holiday season from Santa — and can return year after year.  Read part of the delightful 2018 Seal of Approval review, below:

“Parents couldn’t wait to embrace a new, positive and refreshing tradition. The reasonably priced kit comes in a beautiful box and includes a book introducing the Reindeer tradition to your children, as well as the cute Reindeer plush. The plush is a good size and struck parents as being of a great quality, which meant that it could last through several Christmases.”

Reindeer In Here can be found at many specialty stores including Hallmark and Learning Express. To find a neighborhood store nearby, simply click on their online Store Finder map at www.ReindeerInHere.com. There is also a limited supply available on Amazon.

Filed Under: Holiday Gift Guide, review, toys Tagged With: , , ,

What are the cheapest international holiday destinations from NZ

December 6, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Beijing, China

Hall of Prayer by Fong Chen

Flights: From $720 each

Accommodation: $837 for seven nights for two people

Average meal cost for two: NZ$34

 

China is not the easiest country to travel in. There is a language barrier, the lack of Facebook and Google maps and a big cultural difference. Even the traffic alone can give the average Kiwi nightmares! But it’s an incredible place to visit. Visit the Great Wall, The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, The Summer Palace and explore the Hutongs in the city.

 

Eat classic Peking Duck, pancakes stuffed with crispy skin duck, spring onion and sweet tangy sauce. Or try a breakfast pancake ‘jianbing’, a wheat pancake filled with pickles, crispy fried crackers, herbs, spring onions and topped with hoisin or chilli sauce. Grab cheap noodles or dumplings street-side for a few dollars- eating cheaply is easy here.

Manila, Philippines

Manilla Bay

Flights: From $800 each

Accommodation: $397 for seven nights for two people

Average meal cost for two: NZ$24

 

Fly to Manila and then take a cheap internal flight to Palawan. From there, you can tour the Underground River, swim under Estrella Falls, scuba dive in El Nido or just spend time snorkelling and exploring the spectacular beaches. The food here is amazing and the hospitality and friendliness of the Filipino people second to none.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi at night by Greg Hayter

Flights: From $853 each

Accommodation: $411 for seven nights for two people

Average meal cost for two: NZ$28

Hanoi is an incredible city that would take easily a week to explore. It’s got history thousands of years old – the old quarter is a warren of wire-draped lanes lined with shops selling everything from sequins to welding.

The food in Vietnam is amazing, starting the day with a bowl of steaming Bo Pho, fragrant with herbs. Then fresh spring rolls or hand cut noodles for lunch, and then try a bunch of snacks for dinner. The local street-corner ‘bia hoi’ (pub) offer delicious draught beer for next to nothing, and platefuls of snacks. Point at what others are eating- fresh tofu stuffed with herbs and served with nuoc cham dipping sauce. Crispy sticky pork ribs. Make-your-own spring rolls. It’s all very, very good. The Vietnamese are incredibly friendly and love children- take your family and the kids will be spoiled and treated with much love.

Delhi, India

Akshardham Temple in Delhi, India

Flights: From $1052 each

Accommodation: $148 for seven nights for two people

Average meal cost for two: NZ$25

India has got a reputation that some would say it deserves. But it can be safe and the vibrancy and colourful chaos of Delhi makes it a truly memorable place. It’s a short drive/ train ride to Agra, where you can see the Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri. In Delhi itself, there’s the impressive red fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Qtub Minar and Lodi Gardens.

The food in Delhi is famous throughout India and the world. Head to he old city, Chandni Chowk. The food stalls seemingly stretch on forever, with everything from cheese stuffed kulcha breads and aromatic curries to snack foods. Indian food isn’t just about chilli, try the chaat. Pani puri is a mixture popped into a crisp shell, topped with a watery sauce- eat it in one go and feel the crunch of the shell followed by the taste explosion from the sauce. Vegetarians rejoice- India is heaven for those who don’t eat meat.

Bali, Indonesia

Besakih, Bali by Uwe Aranas

Flights: From $714 each

Accommodation: $358 for seven nights for two people

Average meal cost for two: NZ$22

Only a ten-ish hour flight from Auckland, Ubud in Bali has become one of the most loved destinations for Kiwis and Aussies. It has beautiful beaches with great surf, amazing inland volcanic peaks, a vibrant nightlife scene and loads to explore. It’s also relatively safe and cheap- it has been developed a destination for tourists with a huge range of food options and cheap beer!

As well as natural beauty, there are also plenty of historic attractions- Tanah Lot water temple, beautiful rice terraces and the Pura Ulun Danu Batur Temple are all highly recommended. Kids will love a tour of the monkey forest!

Get your skates on!

No matter what you want- relaxation on the beach, a buzzing city to get lost in or to explore history in ancient surroundings- there is a budget location for you. Get travel insurance from a company like State, then check if you need a visa, and escape the drudgery of real life.

* All prices calculated on Kayak.com for May 2019 ex Auckland

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Portable North Pole Toys for the Holiday Season #GiftGuide

December 6, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Portable North Pole (PNP) brings the magic of Christmas to life with personalized video messages and calls directly from Santa to children young and old. Children (and parents) have sent more than 210 million videos globally since they started 10 years ago.

New for 2018 – the10th Anniversary of Portable North Pole- a line of adorable products, toys and plush dolls that lets kids live the magic of the season while encouraging good behavior:

  • NEW! Letters to Santa Kit: Take your personalized video to the next level using the Letters to Santa Kit, as the included video message reply will include your child’s hand-written letter. Each kit comes with stationary, envelopes, festive Christmas stickers and an officialNorth Pole post office stamp and ink pad. MSRP $12.99.
  • NEW! Twenty-Four Sleeps Until Santa Christmas Storybook:Kids count down the days of December with Santa! Every page offers the “Search and Find” game where kids hunt for Santa’s missing keys and a merry advent verse to read each day. Plus, the book can be personalized with a child’s photo and details. MSRP $12.99.
  • Do-Good Elf:Inspires learning about the true spirit of the holidays by encouraging kids to teach their elf the difference between naughty and nice.

The Do-Good Elf catches you doing GOOD vs. other elves that “spy” on you and report bad behavior back to Santa…

Comes with four (4) personalized videos where Santa checks in on the child teaching progress and more. MSRP $24.99.

  • Karamelli Santa’s Sweetest Baby Reindeer Plush and Okida Santa Playful Husky Puppy Plush: Children teach their cuddly baby pet about the spirit of Christmas. MSRP $12.99.

All toys will be available across North America at most Walmart locations and at Walmart.com this fall.

Filed Under: Holiday Gift Guide, holidays Tagged With: , , , , ,

Standing The Test Of Time: Pieces To Invest In For Your Family Home

December 6, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Adding personality and decorating our home can be a fun way to refresh and update it. However, there are key pieces that are worth investing time and thought over, so that you don’t end up making constant (and often costly) changes to your interior space. The following are some ideas for those with a busy family home, who want to invest wisely.

A Place To Dine

 

The table where the family gets together to eat, play games, and discuss their lives, is often the heart of the home. If you’re always making memories while sitting at that large piece of furniture, it should be an item that will last and adapt to your life and interior space as they evolve and develop. Therefore, it’s wise to think about buying a sturdy table, in a classic design, that will last through any trend or room you might put it in. When the design of a table is fairly straightforward, it also allows for the introduction of different styles of chairs, ensuring it will withstand any drastic changes in interior movement. As with most items in this list, these investments can be expensive for most families, therefore, it might be worth looking into home equity loan vs line of credit in regards to funding any large items or perhaps renovation cost so that you can make wise financial decisions.

 

Somewhere To Sleep

 

On average a human spends a third of their lifetime asleep in their beds, making it an integral part of any home. Nowadays, people also tend to watch T.V, read, and spend time on social media when snuggled up under the duvet; therefore investing in a quality bed will ensure you’re comfortable and well-rested for years to come. Bedsheets, cushions, and even the bed frame can be affordable things to change when interior themes and style move on, but the mattress is the most important part of bed and should be chosen wisely.

 

A Chill-Out Zone

 

Again, interior styles will continue to evolve and change; so you want to buy furniture that will stand the test of time. Cushions and throws can be updated to suit colour schemes in a living room and to introduce pattern; however, a sofa is a risky way to directly update the overall look of a room, as interior trends can change quickly. It’s a smart move to pick a sofa style that will have longevity, like an old school classic design, or a simple and clean silhouette, for those who prefer a modern feel to a space.

 

Something Special

 

There are few items in your home that will actually appreciate in value; however, art can be one of them. Aside from bringing back special memories from where and why you bought it, art can inject your true style and personality in a room, and make it truly unique. When spending more money on art, it’s a wise choice not to pick it simply because it fits in with an interior scheme. Instead, choose art that you love and reflects who you are, that way you’ll continue to admire it wherever it sits in the house. Invest carefully, and you’ll have homewares that will last you for a long time ahead.

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4 Things That Can Damage Your Exterior AC Unit

December 5, 2018 by 1 Comment

It’s easy to ignore your HVAC unit. Outside of replacing the air filter, it may seem like you don’t have to do much to keep your exterior air conditioner running. But this system is exposed to lots of risks, and it’s entirely possible for a problem — one that could easily have been prevented with routine maintenance — to totally disable the system. These are a few different ways an outdoor AC unit can get damaged.

 

Debris

5ec65423abf361518d0349b24226be2e.png

Image via Flickr by scubadive67

 

Since your exterior AC unit is outside, it’s at risk of being crushed by falling debris. Though the unit is protected by its casing, some parts are particularly vulnerable. The exhaust fans, for example, can be damaged by debris from trees, and the coils can similarly be flattened. These problems may not disable the unit entirely, though. In some cases, the system simply won’t run as well because the damage has restricted the air flow or otherwise affected the air conditioner’s efficiency.

 

When this happens, you’ll notice issues like the unit taking longer to cool the home. You’ll also discover higher utility bills as the system must now work harder to reach the desired temperature. You can prevent this problem to a degree by keeping the trees trimmed and watching for yard debris that could be blown toward and damage the unit.

Regular maintenance is another way to mitigate this type of damage. Especially before the peak season, a checkup of your system can prevent seasonal HVAC problems such as refrigerant leaks and worn-out belts. Your HVAC technician can also help identify debris in your yard that could damage the system.

 

Overgrowth Near the Unit

Lawncare is also essential to keeping an outdoor unit running well. Overgrowth can make it hard for the system to run and more difficult for a technician to access the unit for checkups and repairs. Just be cautious when mowing near the air conditioner. Lawnmowers can throw grass and dirt in the air, and some of that debris can wind up in your HVAC unit.

 

You can use a hose and light water pressure to clean off the surface of the unit. A technician can help with more intensive cleanings.

 

Rust

Rust is the natural result of any material containing iron being exposed to oxygen and moisture for a long period of time. Since your AC is outdoors, it’s at risk of rust formation.

This is especially true for the inside component since it’s easier for moisture to become trapped inside. If it’s newly formed, you have time to remove rust. A technician can help with more serious repairs.

 

Wear and Tear

It’s natural for your outdoor AC unit to experience some damage over time from basic use. Especially if you live in a warm climate, you’re likely running your air conditioner 24/7 during seasonal peaks. Some parts will wear down simply from heavy use. Again, routine maintenance checks can confirm whether any components are worn-out and need to be replaced before they cause a severe, expensive problem with the HVAC system.

 

Outdoor units are exposed to unique risks. Maintain your AC and get professional help when needed to keep your HVAC system in top shape.

 

 

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Gifts For the Gamer in Your Life #GiftGuide

December 1, 2018 by 9 Comments

If you have a gamer on your holiday shopping list this year, there are some fantastic games that have recently come out that we think they will really like.

LEGO fan? Who isn’t? No matter what age, in this house, everyone likes LEGO. Combine it with video games, then mix in the DC Universe, and you have the recipe for a win right there.

“LEGO DC Super-Villains” has just been released, and let’s gamers play as villains for the first time ever. In collaboration with DC Comics and joined up with DC Super-Villains including The Joker, Harley Quinn, Lex Luthor, Deathstroke, Killer Frost, Sinestro, and more from the Legion of Doom, players set out to create chaos and strike out against good.

Following the trio of “LEGO Batman” , it is a similar style action-adventure game featuring a features a two-player cooperative multiplayer mode. It is available for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.

LEGO video games

For another LEGO game, check out “LEGO The Incredibles”.  Coming out in time to join the new Incredibles movie, this fun-filled game features all your favorite characters getting themselves into and out of trouble. Take control of your favorite Incredible and act out sections from the movie, recreate favorite scenes and home and family life. Make sure you battle and defeat all the bad guys and team up with other members of the family while you save the world, LEGO style.  Available for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.

lego game

Can’t get enough LEGO?  We were really looking forward to the “LEGO Harry Potter: Collection” game, and cannot get enough of it. The LEGO Harry Potter games were the first ones that created a huge hub to interact between missions or chapters. There are many secrets to discover in Hogwarts and it’s grounds. You can play as many different characters once you unlock them, and you will need to do so in order to progress to different areas. This compilation brings LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 and LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7 to the Nintendo Switch and Xbox One with both top-selling videogames remastered into one.  This game will cast it’s spell on everyone, young and young at heart alike.  Available now Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One.

best video games

“Scribblenauts Mega Pack” is a  new two-game collection which features entire versions of both “Scribblenauts Unlimited” and “Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure”. You also get special bonus content for both games. “Scribblenauts Unlimited” follows the storyline of trying to save your sister, who is trapped. You have to solve puzzles to save her. Each gamer can create and summon anything they can imagine, from characters like Mario to a puppy to a rainbow to whatever else. Your creations then run about in your world. You can share creations with other players, as well, by putting them in a “hub” or shop. This is a 1 player game.

Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure lets your imagination run wild(er) by combining the Scribblenauts world with thousands of DC characters and objects. Available now on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One.

yo kai video game

My child is obsessed with Yo-Kai, and I’m guessing he’s not alone. The latest Yo-Kai games, “YO–KAI WATCH BLASTERS: Red Cat Corps” and “YO–KAI WATCH BLASTERS: White Dog Squad“, let players team up with up to three other friends either at home or online (parents, be on your toes as to whom your child “friends” online) to fight the “Big Bosses”. Develop and use skills and special “Soultimate Moves” and befriend more then 400 Yo-Kai on your journey. These games are different from previous Yo-Kai games in that instead of playing turn-based battles, the “Yo-Kai Watch Blasters” games have gamers play in fast paced, real time battles and missions with action-RPG throughout. During these battles, you directly control your Yo–kai as you strategize with different skills and equipment to defeat bosses.

YO–KAI WATCH BLASTERS: Red Cat Corps and YO–KAI WATCH BLASTERS: White Dog Squad are available for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems for $39.99 each.

harry potter video game

Can’t think of any game that the recipient may not have? Give them a game-related item instead. Find the perfect present for the gamer in your life among these unique graphic tees designed by in-house and independent artists. You can choose from many game-related prints, pop culture-inspired designs, and Japanese animation graphics, among many others.

Filed Under: entertainment, gaming, Holiday Gift Guide, technology Tagged With: , , , , ,

How To Make Your Winter Wear Look Chic

November 30, 2018 by 1 Comment

Here in the UK, we are getting ready to brace ourselves for the much colder weather that is fast approaching. December is almost here and with it the long, dark days and freezing cold temperatures. However, as you wrap up warm this winter, this does not mean that you will also have to compromise on your style and there are lots of ways in which you can still look chic over the winter season. Here, we are taking you through our top tips as to how you can make your winter wear look chic this year and into the next.  

 

Play With Proportions

The winter season is the perfect time to play around with your proportions. For example, why not layer a gilet over an oversized sweater? You can then pair this up with some fabulous high waisted trousers and a big roomy coat. These roomy coats are very on trend right now and we would recommend going for a fun teddy bear coat as this is the perfect coat to keep you warm this winter whilst also looking chic.

 

Include Colour

Winter can be an extremely dreary month and we tend to reflect this in our clothing with darker colours. However, bold and bright colours are not just simply reserved for the summer months as adding a bold colour in the winter can really add a touch of warmth, whilst looking stylish. Go bolder than you would normally dare to and pair up some thick and cosy gloves with a bright fleece or coat.

 

Go For Volume

Looking to get the va va voom effect this winter season? Then these are some fantastic top tips that you need to follow. We would recommend pairing an oversized sweater with a voluminous puffer coat to really make a statement. Ditch your trousers with this look and instead opt for some black tights and a pair of cool statement boots to really finish off your outfit.

 

Invest In Boots

You will be spending almost every day of winter in boots and so it is important that you invest in a chic and stylish pair. Biker ankle boots are a staple and the ankle boots found here at Dune London are a great collection to browse through if you want to stay on trend. There are lots of amazing designs for you to choose from on Dune, so no matter whether you want a plain pair of black heeled ankle boots or something a little more edgy and cool with buckles and diamantes, you can find what you need. These ankle boots can then be teamed up with everything from jeans and jumper to your favourite winter dress.

 

Layer Up

Winter is the perfect season to layer up as much clothing as you possibly can, so really commit to this look and load everything on. Pop on your sweater, pop a fleecy vest over top, and then finish off with a big coat. You can then throw on a pair of leggings, some chunky socks and combat boots. Gloves and a hat will finish off your outfit and keep it looking chic.

 

Mix And Match Textures

Over the upcoming winter months, we would recommend elevating your cold weather look with a pair of chic leather leggings. Leather leggings are fantastic as not only are they incredibly stylish and look amazing, they also keep you warm when the temperature drops. Mix up your textures and team up your leather leggings with a cable knit jumper to create an edgy but cool look.

 

Winter is almost here, so if your closet is not yet ready for the fast-approaching cold weather, now is the time to invest! Fill your closet with these fun fashion trends that are sure to help you stay looking chic, but warm over winter.

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