Win IMAX film “Flight of the Butterflies” on Blu-ray

August 5, 2016 by 54 Comments

Shout! Factory has just released the breathtaking IMAX film Flight of the Butterflies on Blu-ray.

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Flight of the Butterflies is all at once a natural history epic, compelling detective story, and scientific adventure at its best. This captivating film allows viewers to experience one of the most incredible natural phenomena on earth – the migration of hundreds of millions of Monarch butterflies.   The truly inspiring film is a favorite at theaters and science centers around the country, and will now be available on Blu-ray for home viewing. Bonus features include trailers, an image gallery, a making of featurette, and a special message from Lic. Felipe Calderon Hinojosa, President of Mexico 2006-2012.

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We can’t wait to watch this movie ourselves- the photos alone are breathtaking, I’m excited to see everything in action.

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To get your kids excited to watch the film, OR if they have just watched and are excited and want to learn more about butterflies, here are some cute coloring pages and information about the life cycle of butterflies for them. When you click on the image, it will be bigger and you can print full size sheets.

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One of you can win a DVD for your family. Feel free to enter using the RC code below. Good luck! Ends Aug. 27, 2016.
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Filed Under: education, giveaway, movie Tagged With: ,

Have You Seen #MiraclesfromHeaven ? It’s on DVD Now! @MiraclesHeaven

August 5, 2016 by Leave a Comment

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Jennifer Garner (Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day) and Academy Award® nominee Queen Latifah (Best Supporting Actress, Chicago, 2002) star in the inspirational box office hit MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN, the incredible true story of a young girl’s medical miracle debuting on digital June 21 and on Blu-ray™ and DVD July 12 from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment and AFFIRM Films.
Based on the story of the Beam family, Garner plays Christy Beam, whose daughter Annabel (Kylie Rogers, Fathers and Daughters) suffers from a rare digestive disorder, but finds herself miraculously cured after surviving a terrible accident. The family film also stars
Martin Henderson (“Grey’s Anatomy”), John Carroll Lynch (“American Horror Story”) and Eugenio Derbez (Instructions Not Included).

Synopsis: When Christy (Jennifer Garner) discovers her 10-year-old daughter Annabel (Kylie Rogers) has a rare, incurable disease, she becomes a ferocious advocate for her daughter’s healing as she searches for a solution. After Annabel has a freak accident and falls three stories, a miracle unfolds in the wake of her dramatic rescue that leaves medical specialists mystified, her family restored and their community inspired.

Based on the memoir by Christy Beam with a screenplay by Randy Brown, MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN is directed by Patricia Riggen. The film is produced by Joe Roth, T.D. Jakes and DeVon Franklin.

Blu-ray, DVD & Digital Extras include:

  • Featurettes:

  • “Miracles Abound: The Making of Miracles From Heaven”

  • “Bearing Witness”

  • Creating Heaven: Concept Art Exploration
  • “Your Words” Music Montage

  • Commentary with Director Patricia Riggen and Screenwriter Randy Brown

Additional exclusive Extras to the Blu-ray & Digital include:

  • Deleted Scenes

  • Featurette:

  • “Accounts From Annabel”

Visit the Official Website

Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter

Purchase your copy of the DVD at Walmart

Watch the Trailer

mason jar crafts

Make sure you remember all your miracles! These cute mason jar crafts are an adorable way- at your next family get together, just have everyone write down a blessing, and then place them all in a jar. You can decorate it, or let the kids go nuts. Then place it as a centerpiece for holidays and gatherings- it’s a fun and very personal keepsake.

Filed Under: entertainment, movie Tagged With:

Win #MiraclesfromHeaven DVD and Gift Card @MiraclesHeaven

August 5, 2016 by 149 Comments

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About the Film

AVAILABLE ON BLU-RAY & DVD

When Christy (Jennifer Garner) discovers her 10-year-old daughter Annabel (Kylie Rogers) has a rare, incurable disease, she becomes a ferocious advocate for her daughter’s healing as she searches for a solution. After Annabel has a freak accident and falls three stories, a miracle unfolds in the wake of her dramatic rescue that leaves medical specialists mystified, her family restored and their community inspired.

Bonus content on the MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN Blu-ray and DVD releases include two featurettes, as well as commentary. Join Jennifer Garner, Queen Latifah, their costars and crew for a behind the scenes look at the making of this very special film, in “Miracles Abound: The Making of Miracles From Heaven.” Viewers will also meet the real-life Beam family and Dr. Nurko, learn about the casting of the film and the challenge of “the tree.” Shot at the Beam family ranch in Burleson, TX, “Bearing Witness,” features the Beam Family, their pastor, friends, first-responders and community as they gather around the tree and celebrate their faith and the miracles that brought them together. In the “Your Words” montage, experience some of the film’s most touching and memorable moments set against Third Day’s powerful rendition of the inspirational song.

The Blu-ray release exclusively contains deleted scenes and the featurette “Accounts from Annabel,” where Christy and Anna reflect together on their past, present, future, faith and bonding over the past four years since the incident.

Blu-ray & DVD Extras include:

Featurettes:

  • “Miracles Abound: The Making of Miracles From Heaven”
  • “Bearing Witness”
  • Creating Heaven: Concept Art Exploration
  • “Your Words” Music Montage

Commentary with Director Patricia Riggen and Screenwriter Randy Brown

Additional exclusive Extras to the Blu-ray include:

Deleted Scenes

Featurette:

  • “Accounts From Annabel”

Based on the memoir by Christy Beam

Starring: Jennifer Garner, Kylie Rogers, Martin Henderson, John Carroll Lynch, with Eugenio Derbez and Queen Latifah

Rated PG

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Visit the Official Website

Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter

Purchase your copy of the DVD at Walmart

Watch the Trailer

One of you can win this movie as well!

One (1) winner receives:

Miracles From Heaven Family Movie Night prize pack including:

o    $50 Visa Gift Card to purchase snacks

o    Popcorn

o    Copy of MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN on DVD

Ends Aug. 14, 2106.  Good luck!
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Filed Under: giveaway, movie, review Tagged With: ,

Make Sure Your Kids are in #TheRightSeat #STORKS

August 5, 2016 by 2 Comments

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Did you know that every 33 seconds a child under 13 is involved in a car crash in the United States? Car seats, if used correctly, can dramatically reduce the risk of fatality or injury. But over half of car seats are misused in a way that could reduce their effectiveness and 1 in 3 children killed in car crashes are completely unrestrained at the time of the crash.*

The Ad Council and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) want you to know about Child Passenger Safety. They hope to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of selecting the right seat for their child’s age and size, and to remind them that car seats, booster seats and seat belts offer the best protection for children in crashes and help save lives.

This summer, the Ad Council and NHTSA have unveiled new PSAs featuring characters from Warner Bros.’ upcoming animated adventure Storks. By using the tagline, “Find the Right Seat For Your Flock,” the PSAs urge parents and caregivers to protect their child’s future, by making sure they secure them in the right car seat for their age and size. The English language PSAs direct to SaferCar.gov/TheRightSeat and the Spanish ads direct to SaferCar.gov/Protegidos where parents and caregivers can find more information on how to determine if their child is in the right car seat.

The campaign features footage and characters from Storks, which delivers a fresh and funny look at the legend associated with storks delivering babies.

Will you help us spread awareness about the importance of having “the right seat” and “the right fit”?  Here are a few simple ways you can help:

  • “Is Your Child In The Right Seat?”
  • Storks know how to keep kids safe. Do you? Visit safercar.gov/therightseat to know for sure that your child is in the right seat for their age and size. #STORKS #TheRightSeat

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  • How confident are you that your child’s car seat or booster is #therightseat? Enough to stake their lives on it? Car crashes are a leading cause of death for children 1 to 13 years old.
  • Many parents do not realize their child is in the wrong car seat. Visit Safercar.gov/TheRightSeat and make sure your child is riding safely. #therightseat.
  • To locate a Certified Child Passenger Safety technician in your area, go to SaferCar.gov/TheRightSeat or download the free SaferCar app from the iTunes App Store.
  • Register your car seat and booster seat at SaferCar.gov/TheRightSeat so you will be informed if there is a safety recall on your model.
Filed Under: charity/notforprofit, safety Tagged With:

4 Questions To Ask Yourself about LASIK #VisionGoals

August 4, 2016 by 2 Comments

Disclosure- This post contains shared information on behalf of the client.  All opinions are his own and honest. For more, see “I Disclose” .

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My husband has glasses, he has worn them since he was in high school.  He didn’t find out he needed them until it was time to take his driving test, if you can believe that. He’s worn them since, and the strength of the prescription has gotten higher every few years.

He sometimes loses, but more often breaks his glasses.  It’s not just costly and a nuisance, but it also impairs him. He really can’t see well without them, so it messes up his work, he can’t drive, and things like this until he gets to his backup pair (and we order another pair, as well).  It’s annoying, but also stops him from doing some normal daily activities.

What is the best money you have ever spent on yourself? Was it a vacation? An outfit or pair of shoes? Maybe it was a gadget or “toy” such as a jet ski or an ATV.  But if you ask someone who has had LASIK, they will likely tell you that having great vision — without needing to rely on glasses and contacts — is not only worth the cost of LASIK; but, the best money they’ve ever spent.  Researching LASIK lately, we came across some valuable information about it from the American Refractive Surgery Council.  Check out what they have to say;

Maybe you’ve looked into having LASIK, but the $4,000-$5,000 price tag has you wondering: Is it worth the money? Sure, there are discounts and deals to be had, but perhaps you should put the cost of LASIK into perspective.  For example, think about how much you are already spending on vision correction. LASIK starts to look like a pretty good deal once you add up a lifetime of buying glasses (over and over again) or contact lenses (plus solutions, drops, cases, etc.).  How much have you spent on something that lasts a week or two, a month or two, a year?  Even the best car you ever own likely won’t last you as long as your good vision with LASIK will. Depending on when you have LASIK, you can expect to enjoy its benefits for years – even decades.

Still wondering if the cost of LASIK is worth it?  Here are four questions to ask yourself to help put the investment into your vision correction options into perspective:

How old are you?

The younger you are, the longer you will need vision correcting glasses or contact lenses. The longer you need them, the more you will spend on them.  However, if you choose to have LASIK sooner rather than later, you can expect to have great vision without glasses and contacts for years.  However, LASIK doesn’t stop the aging process.  It can improve your current vision, but you will likely still experience age-related vision issues down the road.  This may mean you will need reading glasses at some point.

Do you have insurance?

If you do, count yourself lucky! Many vision plans help cover some of the costs of glasses and contacts, but won’t take care of all of your vision correction expenses. You also have to factor in whatever you are paying in insurance premiums into the overall cost of your vision correction. Did you know some vision policies offer discounts toward LASIK and other vision correcting procedures? Check your benefits because you just never know what might be covered.

Are you into fashionable frames and the latest lenses?

Even if your insurance covers the purchase of glasses, often the cost of the frame styles you want won’t be covered entirely. Same goes for certain protective and/or antiglare coatings or lens technologies.  There is usually a limit on the number of pairs of glasses insurance covers in a given year. So if you need prescription sunglasses, lose a pair of glasses or also need reading glasses, you should expect to pay for those on your own.

What kind of contact lenses do you wear?

Popular daily disposable contacts, on average, cost about $600 a year. So over 20 years, you will spend $12,000 — or more than twice the cost of LASIK — using the most advanced technologies available today.  You should know that, as your eyes age, your prescription is likely to become more complicated, resulting in more expensive contact lenses.  If you are using hard or soft lenses, the cost of solutions, drops and the cases required to maintain them in a sanitary fashion can quickly add up as well.

Today, there are many ways to pay for LASIK. In addition to helping you decide if vision correction surgery is right for your eyes, your surgeon may have access to financing services to help pay for your procedure. Some plans have extended periods with no interest that allow you to pay overtime without incurring additional costs.  Check out Finding Ways to Pay for LASIK to learn more ways to help make the cost of LASIK affordable.

So do the math for your own vision correction choices to see if LASIK is a smart investment for you and your vision goals. Check out Finding Ways to Pay for LASIK on the American Refractive Surgery Council blog to learn more ways to help make the cost of LASIK affordable.

Filed Under: health, lifestyle items

The Best Spots In Asia For Your Next Vacation

August 4, 2016 by 1 Comment

The continent of Asia is magical, mysterious and thoroughly modern. From the pristine beaches of Thailand to the temples of Hanoi to the modern world of Beijing’s famous shopping districts; there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular, exciting places you should consider for your next vacation.

Siem Reap In Cambodia:

Siem Reap is the capital and sits in the northwestern region of Cambodia. Many travelers believe this is the perfect destination because it’s so easy to get around, the people are incredibly friendly and there is something to do at every turn. Siem is also known for its rich history, culture, nightlife, museums and markets. You Must get up at sunrise to watch the golden light brush across the temples and ruins of Angkor Wat, it will take your breath away! The ancient ruins and buildings are housed in the largest complex in the entire world, this 12th Century Angkor Thom royal city is one of the major attractions for visitors. If natural history is on your agenda, you must visit the Cambodian Cultural Village.

China’s Capital Beijing:

Beijing has been the capital of China for 800 years and is a wonderful blend of modern and historic. It is home to the finest ancient remains from their imperial past. Their historical past includes the Ming Tombs and the Mausoleum of 13 emperors during the Ming Dynasty. Visit the Forbidden City, The Great Wall and the Hall of Preserving Harmony. The Great Wall was built between 220 and 206 BC by the first Emperor of China and is considered one of the most visited places throughout the country. Tiananmen Square is the largest square in the entire world and is a must see along with the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall. Other popular tourist attractions include their shopping districts such as Wangfujing Street and Qianmen Street for a huge variety of goods.

Hanoi – The Capital of Vietnam:

Unlike other Asian capitals, Hanoi is home to cultural influences from French to Chinese but still maintains it’s deep rooted Vietnamese ideals. Running between Hoan Kiem Lake, the Red River and the ruins of the Hanoi Citadel are a maze of streets that date back over 1,000 years. Enjoy the incredible blend of ancient monuments and colonial architecture along side a very modern world. Hanoi is very easy to get around by cab, you can enjoy beautifully kept parks, gorgeous lakes and more than 600 temples and pagodas.

Seminyak, Indonesia:

Situated in Bali, Seminyak is very proud of their gorgeous beaches and famous sunsets. While their beaches are the biggest tourist draw, they are also known for their upscale fashionable eateries, bars and restaurants that spread from Seminyak to Kerobokan, directly to the north. After a long day of sightseeing, why not indulge yourself in the finest spas anywhere in the world.

Bangkok, Thailand:

A city of old and modern, East and West, Bangkok is a very popular destination for visitors. Visit golden palaces, floating markets and glorious porcelain-laid spires. The Grand Palace houses palaces and temples that’s a must to visit. A trip to Bangkok is incomplete without visiting Thailand’s most precious relic – the Emerald Buddah from the 15th Century and is completed sculptured in Jade. Stop by the European styled gardens of Dusit or enjoy shopping at Siam or Pratunam Squares.

Shanghai, The Oldest City In China:

This prosperous city is an incredible blend of the past, the present and the future and is well known for its cultural and economic centers. The Huangpu River divides the city into the districts of Pudong and Puxi. The skyline of Pudong looks like something out of a science fiction movie with its huge Oriental Pearl TV and Radio Tower. Perhaps you’d prefer to walk along the Bund riverside to experience old Shanghai. This is a city that never sleeps so there is always something going on after dark. Whatever your taste, there’s something for you: nightclubs and bars that are open all night, theaters with Chinese and foreign films or theaters for dance, opera, puppets, drama and acrobatics. Shanghai is a paradise for shoppers looking for absolutely anything or everything, so shop till you drop!

Tokyo, Japan:

From amazing temples to the modern world of karaoke bars, what’s not to love! Although the city has an enormous population and is rather expensive, it’s also one of the cleanest cities anywhere. The residents are very friendly and extremely polite to everyone they meet. There are more 5-star restaurants in Tokyo, then throughout all of Paris! Enjoy delicious, fresh dishes such as sushi, udon noodles and wagashi. This a wonderful, vibrant city that should definitely be on your list of places to visit.

Hong Kong, China:

This city is known as the Special Administrative Region of China and is a world leading financial, banking and trading center while being the gateway from the East to the West. Visit the beautiful Chinese architecture in Ngong Ping village then jump on a tram and go up to Victoria Peak for the most spectacular views. Visit their unique floating islands or stop for a snack of dim sum, which is a Chinese dish in small bite sized portions and served in a steamer basket. The city has more than 200 offshore islands including Lantau Island which will give you a peek into Hong Kong’s rural lifestyle. After dark, the skyline comes to life with a magical show of lights and wonderful soundtracks, along with a spectacular real life show of Disney’s Electric Light Parade.

Taipei, Taiwan:

This active, vibrant city is a contrast of the old and the new. From tranquil parks to busy, fashionable streets for shopping to traditional Taiwanese markets. Taipei is as convenient and modern as Wi-Fi to discovering it’s wonderful, rich history. When it’s time to hit restaurants, you will find some of the most perfect dishes of superior foods anywhere. Not only will you be overwhelmed with the variety of foods but they are all very inexpensive. Enjoy Taiwanese dishes or other cuisines such as Chinese, Japanese, Italian and Indian. Don’t judge eateries by their cover! There are many places that might look like holes in the wall, but the food will send you to heaven!

Check business class seats reviews to Asia at http://cheapfirstclass.com/business-class-flights-to-asia-airlines-reviews/

Filed Under: traveling Tagged With: ,

South England Interactive Travel Map @dreamlodgegroup

August 2, 2016 by Leave a Comment

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When going on a trip, one of the most important ways to prepare for it is with research. Research is a whole lot easier with the right tools and a wealth of information pertinent to your trip. One great tool which I was recently introduced to is the South England Interactive Travel Map. When visiting the UK, it can be difficult to figure out what places to visit, what things to do, and where to find them. This map helps do just that in one place, broken down by area and destinations.

This map brings various locations in Southern England to your fingertips, and is broken down into four categories: directions, activities, food and drinks, and local attractions. Each category is broken down into bite size nuggets of information with just enough to whet your appetite to visit locations for yourself. Each destination also has a picture included with the short description, to give you an interesting sneak peak. Some of the locations included are: Berkshire,Cambridge, Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Sussex, Devon, and Cornwall. What I really like about the site is the local attractions section. This area includes not only historical and cultural locations like castles and cathedrals (tours Americans typically love, being as we don’t have much in the way of those here in the USA) but also family friendly fun locations like adventure parks and beaches.

I also like the food and drinks section, which includes local dishes available from both small family owned restaurants and pubs as well as upscale restaurants. (Always try local favorites and whatever the area is famous for!) The combination gives visitors a great overall taste of the area. This is the perfect tool for planning your next trip to England. It doesn’t matter if you are planning a short visit like a long weekend or a more in depth trip, the interactive map of Southern England is a valuable tool when planning and doing research and will help you find all the local hot spots.

Filed Under: traveling Tagged With:

Celebrate National Watermelon Day with Applebee’s #Woodfired #WatermelonSmile

August 1, 2016 by 10 Comments

Disclosure- I received an Applebee’s gift card in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own and honest. For more info, see “I Disclose”.

August 3rd is national watermelon day, and to celebrate Applebee’s has introduced some new Summertime favorite menu items called Wood Fired Grill Salads.  This menu includes some delightful combinations of fresh vegetables and succulent shrimp, chicken, and of course watermelon.
Southwestern Steak Salad: Hand-Cut Wood Fired USDA Choice Top Sirloin Steak paired with chimichurri, pico de gallo, corn and black bean salsa, cheddar, crispy tortilla strips and a creamy house-made cilantro ranch dressing.

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They have a few new salads to try as well-

-Grilled Watermelon and Spicy Shrimp Salad: Mixed greens, cucumbers, feta, almonds and house-made creamy mint-Greek yogurt dressing. Also available with Spicy Blackened Chicken.

-Spicy Blackened Grilled Chicken, Avocado and Grapefruit Salad: Mixed greens, pickled in-house red onions, cilantro leaves and house-made champagne vinaigrette.

-Crispy Chicken ‘N Spicy Cornbread Salad: Mixed greens, made-in-house jalapeno cornbread croutons, grape tomatoes, shredded cheddar, applewood-smoked bacon and buttermilk dressing.

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We recently went to check out these new menu items and tried the Crispy Chicken ‘N Spicy Cornbread Salad.  Upon first glance, the spice component might make some turn away from this delicious salad, but the spice is more of a flavor then a burning mouth sensation.  The jalapeno cornbread croutons a perfect complement to the smoked bacon flavor and buttermilk dressing.  For those of you not big on salads, Applebee’s has a menu full of delicious items including burgers, sandwiches, pasta dishes, steaks, chicken and fish dishes.

There is also the new wood fired grill menu including your 6, 8 or 12 oz sirloin steak, pork chops, salmon, chicken breast or baby back ribs then you get to pick two sides and your meal is created just for you.  The little guy is a cheese head and loves the mac and cheese and mozzarella sticks kids meal while my husband usually gets something different each time we go, this time he chose the crispy brewhouse chicken with a stout based gravy, cheddar cheese, garlic mashed potatoes and crispy onions on top.

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In addition to all these fun new summer dishes, Applebee’s is also celebrating national watermelon day with a contest!  To celebrate this new salad and fun occasion, from July 20 to August 3 Applebee’s is inviting guests to submit their favorite salad recipes via photo or text on Twitter and Instagram with the hashtags #WoodFired and #Sweepstakes for a chance to win a $100 Applebee’s gift card.  See details and official rules at www.beesmeetup.com.

Filed Under: food, review Tagged With: ,