HGTV’s Santa HQ at Freehold Raceway Mall #SantaHQ and #loveHGTV

November 16, 2016 by 2 Comments

santa visit

It is that magical time of year again, where malls across the country are packed with shoppers, including kids and parents of all ages.  One of the main draws of shopping at the mall, beyond the shopping, is to see the big man himself Santa.  This year HG TV brings you a very special Santa’s HQ, where visitors travel to the North Pole and explore the big man’s abode.  The visit starts interestingly enough, with an app download. There really is an app for everything. The app is called Elf-Ray vision, and should be downloaded before you get to the mall.

app for santa

This app gives the user a special insight into the working of the elves.  Point your phone at the walls, and see what the elves have been up to.  Once activated, the gears show elves working hard behind the scenes or getting ready for the big day.  These scenes are dispersed at various places all along your trek, so keep an eye out.  The first step is the “Elfie Selfie” in Santa‘s workshop where, after snapping your pic as an elf, you star in your own holiday video (that also features some HGTV favorite stars) that you can share with with your loved one as well- just email it to yourself on the tablet.

visit santa

Next up is the Naughty or Nice O’Meter.  Users input their name, then they are measured on whether  they have been naughty or nice.  My son was just barely nice, according to the meter, but he made the cut…..so far. Then off to the observatory where your Elf Ray vision really kicks in, and you can see an incredible display with twinkling snow and presents.  The end of your visit culminates in a family photo, and then a meeting with the big guy himself, Santa. Make sure your kids bring him a list- then you can avoid those post office lines  😉

mall santa

Guests of the mall are invited start to making reservations by visiting www.santa-hq.com.  Guests also can enter to win $10,000 in cash online at www.santa-hq.com/sweeps orwww.mallsweeptakes.com or in mall at the Concierge Desk beginning November 14th.

Enjoy your visit!

Filed Under: holidays, review Tagged With: , ,

North Pole Kids Club

November 15, 2016 by 3 Comments

Disclosure- We received the below in order to facilitate this review.  All opinions are our own. For more information, see “I Disclose”.
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The magic of Christmas time is very fun for the majority of people. It gets even more exciting when you have children. The North Pole Kids’ Club does nothing but get your family even more excited for the magic of the Christmas Season.

About North Pole Kids Club:

Since Santa is especially busy during the holiday season, the North Pole Kids’ Club is brought to you by Cooper’s Corner, a magic workshop just outside of Denver, Colorado. They create fun and festive products that promote family togetherness and the spirit of Christmas.

Colleen Nutter, Chief Operating Elf, of the North Pole Kids’ Club has direct orders from Santa Claus to certify as many Junior Elves as possible. For kids that want to stay off the naughty list, enlisting in the North Pole Kids’ Club secures a spot on Santa’s nice list. That’s because youngesters 4-years-old and up become Junior Elves by being polite, helpful and merry. It all starts with the Official Elf Kit.

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About the Official Elf Kit:

The Official Elf Kit (Single Pack), from the North Pole Kids’ Club is a Christmas activity kit containing everything a kid needs to help out Santa, become a certified junior elf, and make a merrier Christmas!

Each kit includes:

  • Cozy elf hat with North Pole Kids’ Club insignia in green or pink
  • Magical key that helps Santa visit
  • Letter from Santa
  • 64-page Official Handbook, with an illustrated story explaining how the North Pole Kids’ Club began
  • 16-page elf activity book to write and color in
  • Official elf certificate
  • North Pole Kids’ Club membership card

Ages 4+

 

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My Thoughts:

How wonderful and exciting. My girls were so very excited to become official elves. They loved getting their own neat little package with all the goodies that it entailed. They have had a great deal of fun looking through and reading the Official Handbook. They also greatly enjoyed the activity book. I think that this is a great company and product to take your holiday season to the next level. It is a great way to get your children even more involved in this special time of the year.

Purchase:

If you are interested in purchasing a single or double Kit, head on over to the website and get one headed your way right away.

Don’t forget to use this awesome discount code “BLOG20”, which gives 20% off your order at checkout on the company’s website and expiresDecember 5, 2016.

Filed Under: Holiday Gift Guide, Holiday Gift Guide 2016, kids, review Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Starting Your Holiday Shopping? Check Out These Fun Items

November 15, 2016 by Leave a Comment

If you, like me, like to get a head start on the holiday shopping, you will love these cute and fun toys. Your children (grandchildren, nieces or nephews, etc) will have a ball with these long after the festivities are done.

kids charm bracelet

Do you know a little girl who loves crafts? How about jewelry? She would enjoy Charm U®. Designed for kids aged five and up, they can create and then wear these cute toys that double as jewelry. There are more then 70 charms currently available, including fun foods, pets, princess, travel, sports, and more. These are very cute, and very trendy at the moment as well.  There are starer sets that come with the Charm U Bracelet and Eight Charms– everything a girl could need to begin her designing and creativity. This comes with a charm bracelet and eight different charms,as the name suggests- but you also get a “surprise charm” in a fun mini backpack, stickers, and more.  (about $12.99) If you ant to add some charm, there are additional charm packs with four charms or blind bags that each have two collectible charms. Looking for a little more? Try the Charm U Display & Playsets for about $19.99.

fighting robotsMy 9 year old son loves Big Robots, these were one of his “must have” toys this year, and it’s easy to see why. The 8” fighting robots are responsive and easy to set up. You use handheld controllers to “fight” (think motion controlled nun-chucks), moving your hands to move the robots.  They are easy to control, and fun- even for dad. They work best on a flat, smooth surface- floors are best, you don’t want them to fall off a table.  Also cool are the“damage tracking” LEDs that let you see the devastation you inflict. About $59.99 each, or $119.99 for a 2 Pack- and you are going to want the 2 pack, they are nowhere near as much fun alone.
 
travel stuffed toys
When you are ready to go to bed or snuggle up by the fire, grab your FlipaZoo. The coolest thing about FlipaZoo is that they are not only two animals in one toy, but also that it is two items in one. Not only a toy, it doubles at a pillow, something this traveling mom loves. They are so cute and the plush is very soft (and they are smooshy-cuddly, even if that’s not a real word).   There are 12 transforming characters available, just flip them from one to another. Safe for all ages, $19.99 on the http://www.flipazoo.com/ website. When you buy, you get a free “Little Flipzee” mini FlipaZoo as a bonus.
 Mim-Mim
Do you know Kate & Mim-Mim? If your kids are fans of this fairly new TV show, they will love the new toys available. One of the most fun is the Kate & Mim-Mim Magic Twirl  Mim-Mim, a large (and oh so soft) stuffed purple bunny from Mimiloo. Mim-Mim also likes to chat- he says 10 phrases from the show. You can turn off the sound if you are so inclined or for bedtime, if you’d like to.  About $19.99. If you want to complete your set, there is the Kate & Mim-Mim Adventures with Kate Doll. Standing at 8.5”, she comes dressed in in her adventure outfit and ready have some holiday fun with Mim-Mim.  About $12.99.
powerpuff girls toys
If you have a little helper on your hands, you can give them a playset that will encourage them to act on those instincts. They can help save the world- or at least Townsville- from any evil doers that would threaten it. (It’s also a good size for many standard size action figures, so “friends” can join in.)  The Deluxe Flip To Action Playset comes with 2″ Bubbles and Professor Utonium (other figures and playsets  sold separately) and with an easy flip, transforms from The Powerpuff Girls’ bedroom to their superhero lab. Who wouldn’t love that commute? The set looks just like the rooms on the TV show, and the “accessories” like dressers and backpacks, flip with the rooms and stay attached (no pieces to lose!) Available for about $24.99 at most major retailers, safe for kids 5 and up.

Filed Under: Holiday Gift Guide 2016, review, toys Tagged With: , , ,

Must Have Swaddle Me WrapSack

November 14, 2016 by Leave a Comment

Disclosure- We received the below in order to facilitate this review.  All opinions are our own. For more information, see “I Disclose”.
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Finding the perfect way to get your little one to sleep through the night is very important. I have had amazing luck using the SwaddleMe blankets with all 3 of my girls.

About Swaddle Me:

SwaddleMe knows that when your baby sleeps better, you sleep better, allowing everyone to enjoy the magical experience that is getting to know the newest member of your family. Their complete line of sleep products has been expertly designed and tested to keep babies snug, safe, and comfy every night throughout their first year. Safe Sleep. Brighter Days.

Why Swaddle?

  • It soothes babies by mimicking the familiar snugness from the womb.
  • It teaches babies to sleep through the night without startling themselves.
  • Helps reduce loose bedding in the crib and helps keep babies sleeping safely on their backs.

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About the LoveSack/WrapSack:

The SwaddleMe WrapSack can be worn with babies arms in or out, making it perfect for babies who can roll but still need the security of a swaddle. The LoveSack/WrapSack has been designed and tested to keep babies snug, safe, and comfy every night throughout their first year.

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My Thoughts:

I absolutely love the entire line of SwaddleMe Blankets. I have used them with all three of my girls and they have slept through the night within days of being home from the hospital. I firmly believe in the swaddle (even when your baby is fighting you), and think that it helps babies feel more comfortable. We have already transitioned her out of the arms wrapped swaddle, but it is still too cold to not have something on her other than just her pajamas. I love this LoveSack/WrapSack. It is perfect for our daughter and I know that she loves it as she gets cozy as soon as we put her in it.

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Purchase:

If you are interested in purchasing this Swaddle or any other from SwaddleMe, head on over to their website and get one or two ordered. I promise, you will not be disappointed.

Filed Under: baby, review Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Piper Was Afraid – Kids Book and Plush Toy

November 14, 2016 by 1 Comment

kids book

What’s better then a cute kid’s book? One that comes complete with a stuffed animal of it’s hero, of course. Piper, an Irish Wolfhound, was afraid. Of other dogs, of storms- of pretty much everything. Big a dog as Piper was, he was just a scaredy cat. What will Piper do?

“Piper Was Afraid! Piper is the main character of the children’s book Piper was Afraid. He is a cute and cuddly companion that helps children be brave… especially at bed time. Piper comes with an adoption certificate as well as instructions on what to do if Piper gets scared! “Piper was Afraid” is based on a real Irish Wolfhound named “Inspirations Bagpiper of Blackwatch” or Piper for short. He is a rescue dog and was adopted by the owners of The Inn at Willow Grove in Orange, Va.”

Check out the Inn at www.innatwillowgrove.com and don’t forget to tag your photos of Piper with @piperwasafraid to get featured on his instagram page- and who doesn’t want that?  Interaction with the real Piper. Well….his people, anyway.

My son got a kick out of Piper, and my guess is your children will as well. Even the very youngest kids will not have a problem following along this simple book with an easy, and relateable theme. Most kids get scared now and again- if a big dog like Piper can get scared (and learn to be brave), then they can feel better about it, themselves. Maybe they will feel like trying something new as well, and having a “brave” moment, just like Piper. Plush Piper can go along on adventures with your child as well, or just snuggle in for a story and bedtime.

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Adorable Handcrafted Plush Dog is available with it’s hardcover book. The Piper stuffed toy comes with an adoption certificate, the kids get a kick out of that.
Piper’s soft, shaggy fur feels like a real Irish Wolfhound.
Get your set today in time for the holidays! Order at http://rebekahphillips.com/features/

Filed Under: book review, Holiday Gift Guide, Holiday Gift Guide 2016, review Tagged With: , ,

Nature Made®at Walmart #NatureMadeAtWalmart #IC #ad

November 7, 2016 by

This post was sponsored by Nature Made® as a part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central.

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There are many facets to a healthy lifestyle, a few of them being exercise, eating right, mental health, and proper nutrition.  Some of these can be difficult to do on the regular, with busy lifestyles and juggling a family, work, and social responsibilities with personal health.  Often times, parents put their own health last, after those of everyone else around them have been cared for.  One way to help keep yourself in better health is with vitamins, minerals, and probiotics.  Some of the most potent and value minded can even be found at Walmart’s and Walmart SuperCenters. Nature Made® Probiotics are available at Walmart SuperCenters, and the other vitamins and supplements are at both Walmart and Walmart SuperCenters.

probiotics

Nature Made® is the #1 Pharmacist Recommended brand for many key dietary supplement categories*.  Nature Made® has a variety of vitamins, minerals, and supplements (VMS) to help support nutritional gaps with your health goals in mind ranging from Digestive Support, Heart Health & Function, Energy Metabolism, Women’s Health and much more!†  In our house we regularly use vitamins and herbal supplements as well as probiotics to give our bodies that extra boost we can’t seem to find elsewhere, especially Mom and Dad.  Nature Made® vitamins and supplements: An easy, convenient way to help your body get the nutritional support it needs every day, whether it be to support bone health, immune health or energy metabolism (helping convert food into energy).†  Nature Made® Probiotics: Nature Made® Advanced Dual Action Probiotic has been clinically studied and provides dual support to both your small and large intestine for comprehensive coverage to help support digestive balance and healthy gut flora.†   On the Retailer Hub, readers can enter for chance to win one of 60 Walmart gift cards worth $50 each (No Purchase Necessary).

vitamens

We also like how convenient it is having such high quality supplements at our local Walmart and within reach.  Being able to support so many different functions, like boosting energy at a cellular level, supporting digestion, or simply giving our immune system a much needed boost. It makes it easier when items are easy to find at Walmart with the help of Nature Made.  So be sure to check them out at your local Walmart today.

*Based on the 2016 U.S. News & World Report – Pharmacy Times Survey.http://shopcentric.influence-central.com/walmart/nature-made/

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent any disease.

Filed Under: health, review Tagged With: ,

Treasure Necklaces From Chamilia Review

November 7, 2016 by 1 Comment

Chamilia

The new Treasure necklaces from Chamilia will be a timeless and priceless necklace every woman will want to adorn her neck. From a Swarovski company, the Treasure sterling silver necklaces are the perfect gift for this holiday season.

With this new Treasure necklace collection, which features six dainty classic sterling silver disc pendants each featuring an engraved sentiment on the front; with the words Love, Friend, Sister,Family, Mom, and Daughter to choose from with the Chamilia hummingbird logo on the back of each pedant.

Chamilia necklaces are beautiful sterling silver, open-filigree frames are electroplated in 14 karat gold and lay freely on top of the discs, which hang from 18″ sterling silver chains with a 2″ extender.

Treasure Necklaces

Chamilia line has beads, charms, necklaces, build your own to create your personal style and look. The charms that Chamilia has for every event, sports, city,animals, and so many more that you can create your own charm bracelet.There are tons of different jewelry and other items for $50 or less and create a holiday gift she will never forget.

This is a perfect holiday gift to express your love to that special woman in your life; give her a touch of classy elegance this year. Treasure your relationship this season with the new Treasure necklaces from Chamilia.

Swarovski jewelery

Filed Under: fashion, Holiday Gift Guide 2016, review Tagged With: , , ,

Must Have Baby Items from Balboa Baby

November 4, 2016 by 1 Comment

Disclosure- We received the below in order to facilitate this review.  All opinions are our own. For more information, see “I Disclose”.
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I am one of those people that loves to find neat baby products to use. I must admit that when I found Balboa Baby, I was incredibly excited. They had amazing practical products that were adorable and at an affordable price.

About Balboa Baby:

Shirley Pepys, founder of Noel Joanna Inc. (NoJo) and her son Noel Pepys have teamed up with Dr. William Sears, best known as “America’s Pediatrician,” to create fashionable and functional products to make life simpler for parents and better for babies. Balboa Baby designs contemporary, unique products using luxurious fabrics and distinctive prints. They  will continue to find innovative ways to make parents’ lives easier, their babies happier and to give them both opportunities to bond and experience life together.

About the Carseat Canopy:

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This amazing Carseat Canopy has some awesome features:

  • Reversible design in two unique prints, easy to reverse.
  • Velcro tab closures for a universal fit.
  • Can also be used as a colorful playmat or blanket.
  • Measures 42″ height x 31″ width.
  • Keeps the sun out & protects from the elements.
  • Machine Washable.

About the Nursing Cover:

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  • Structured reinforced neckline holds fabric away from mom, permitting easy eye contact.
  • Developed, tested, and recommended by America’s Pediatrician” Dr. William Sears.
  • Generously sized to give nursing mothers full coverage while providing baby room to move.
  • Contoured design with fashionable details and convenient pocket.
  • Can also be used as a stroller cover.
  • Measures 26″ height x 46″width
  • Machine Washable

My Thoughts:

I am absolutely in love with each of these amazing products. The carseat canopy has came in handy since day one. When she was first born it was incredibly bright for her to be out in that sun and we also live in the Kansas Wind. It was completely necessary for me to have a product that would cover the carseat well!  The nursing cover comes in handy anytime that we have company and she is hungry as well as when we are out and about and she is ready to eat.

Filed Under: baby, review Tagged With: , , , , , ,