Everyone Loves Grace

Our daughter loves to read.  But I remember that my son did not.  I had to fight with him just to get him to read the minimum required by the school for his homework.  I had to find books that he liked and even then, this was still a challenge that we continuously fought about.  

 

Thanks to Katy McQuaid.  My daughter received a review copy.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

Since learning to read, this girl always has a book in her reach.  As she has gotten older, she is getting picky about the books she wants to read.  She is adventurous, so she definitely loves to read stories that take care on adventures.  The adventures take her to places she has never been to or sometimes places she has been to.  

If you can find a great book series, you can make a little reader very happy.  

My daughter loved going on this adventure with Grace.  She was so happy to find out that Grace was a dog.  Because of course, she loves animals.  She was excited to find out that Grace was traveling to Texas.  And the rest, you will have to read on your own.  No spoiler alerts.  I will tell you that this was a book that she did not put down.  She literally read it from start to finish.  And when she was finished, she loved talking about it.  She told me what she learned and wanted to find out what other adventures Grace was going on.  

Katy, the author of the “Everybody Loves Grace” illustrated book series aims to give kids hope and courage as they face life’s many challenges.  The books are based on true stories told from the perspective of Katy’s beloved Finnish Lapphund, Grace.  The inspiring lessons are written in a fun, light, and humorous tone while addressing some of the most challenging situations people encounter in life.

“In summary,” says Katy, “this book series is an acknowledgement that we need to treat each other well, and that we have the ability to have a profound impact on others’ lives with simple acts of kindness.”

2019 Kids Gift Guide

Christmas time is upon us.  Are your lists ready?  Do you know what to get your kiddos?  Everyone is always asking me what to get their kids.  I love shopping for kids.  I like looking for the perfect gifts that will make their eyes light up.  Do you?

Well if you are still looking for some gifts ideas, here are some of my recommendations:

1)  Sesame Street - 50 Years and Counting - Who does not love Sesame Street?  350 mins of fun and learning.  I love giving DVDs as stocking stuffers.  They make the perfect gifts because you can watch over and over.

Books are great gifts to give.  Winter break is the perfect time to grab a book and read.  

2)  Three Paws - This book encourages children to be bold, make new friends. It promotes the importance of both independence and inclusivity.

3)  Ted the Friendly Frog and Santa Frog - On Christmas Eve, Ted and Brad snuggle by the fire as their father tells them the magical story of his encounter with Santa Frog.

4)  Disney The Nutcracker and the Four Realms: A Center Stage Pop-Up Book - The Ballerina of the Realms dances on every page of this magical book!  Follow the elegant Ballerina of the Realms as she dances center stage in this artistic pop-up book, celebrating each of the unique and picturesque Four Realms.

5)  Bright Lite -  Inspiring a “you CAN sit with us” mentality amongst their readers and creators, BRIGHT LITE is a one-of-a-kind publication that takes shape in the form of a small, bi-annual coffee-table book.

Who doesn't like toys?  STEM toys are even better.  I love to give gifts that call for learning.

6)  Stomp Rocket - Stomp Rocket's line-up of STEM toys provide hours of screen-free fun and make a perfect for all ages! Stomp Rocket is 100% kid-powered and easy for kids to set up with no batteries required! 

I hope you find the perfect gift for your kiddos.  I have lots of wrapping to do, how about you?

Ted the Friendly Frog and Santa Frog

Does your child like to read?  Winter break is around the corner, what will your kids be doing the entire time?  My daughter loves to read.  My son was the total opposite.  He did not like books or reading.  I tried everything I could think of.  But I remember having a hard time with reading too.

Disclosure-Sample product was received for book review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

Reading was not my thing.  But that is why I wanted my kids to like it.  Reading can take us places, teach us so much, and you can do it anywhere at any age.

My daughter received the book Ted the Friendly Frog and Santa Frog.  The Ted the Friendly Frog books are great for kids.  Written with kids in mind by a parent trying to teach his kid how to read. 

In the book - Ted and his brother Brad are snuggled up by the fire on Christmas Eve, waiting to hear the story of Santa Frog.  Their father tells them an incredible tale of the time he met Santa Frog, and they can't believe their ears!  A frog in a red coat, flying a sleigh pulled by nine birds, leaving presents under Christmas trees; it almost sounds too good to be true.  When the story is done, Ted and Brad can't wait to see if Santa Frog comes again that night.  Will Ted get to meet Santa Frog this Christmas?

I like the story.  I like that the book rhymes and is an easy read.  I like the lesson in the story.  My daughter liked reading about Ted and following along the adventure as each page was turned.

  

Scott McCall began writing short stories to help his son learn to read.  Together they wrote some stories that rhymed.  It was from this experience that the idea of Ted the Friendly Frog evolved.  Ted the Friendly Frog and Santa Frog is the third book in the series.

 For more information about the series and author, visit www.TedTheFriendlyFrog.com. 

***CLOSED***Giveaway - Cinderella and the Secret Prince

Do you have a princess at home that dreams of a castle and dancing at a royal ball one day?  My daughter was born with pixie dust dreams.  Who am I to judge having been there myself?

Disclosure-This giveaway is hosted by Shout! Factory.  Review copy was received.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal opinion.

On November 5th, Shout! Kids and Gold Valley Films released a secret, never-before-told tale of Cinderella.  Cinderella and the Secret Prince tells about a new adventure we have yet to hear.  Just in time for the holiday break.  Grab your blanket, some hot chocolate, and curl up on the couch with the family.  Follow along with the fairy, the mouse friends, and of course, Cinderella.  Check this out:


About - During the Royal Ball, the real prince was turned into a mouse by the evil witch, and the "Prince" from the Royal Ball is in fact a fraud! Now begins the new adventure to save the real Prince and help him defeat the evil force.

Want to win a copy for your family?  Enter below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is only open to US.  The winner will be randomly selected.  They will have 24 hours to claim their prize.  Fulfillment of prize will be by the sponsor.  Good luck.

Let’s Get Ready for Bed

How are your routines and bed times going?  Are you back on track yet?  After long holiday school breaks, routines, schedules, and bed times can get all out of whack with our families.  But the little ones can have a harder time than mommies and daddies.

 
Thanks to Nurturing Steps for sending sample product for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

Healthy sleep habits are learned from a very small age.  I loved receiving tips and tricks from other mothers on what worked for them.  Every story shared always reiterated routine, routine, routine. 

Michael W. Smith has launched Nurturing Steps, an infant and toddler series with the simple mission to enliven a child's journey with hope and faith through music and storytelling.  

Let’s Get Ready for Bed takes children on a journey through Sleepy Puppy’s bedtime routine. And when Sleepy Puppy turns out to be not-so-sleepy after all, his friends Eddie the bear and Lamby the sheep know just what to do to help him drift off to dreamland. Along with read-aloud rhymes and a cover that sparkles with glitter, Let’s Get Ready for Bed also includes an exclusive link to a lullaby by Smith. The song is meant to further help lull young children to sleep.

“One of the greatest joys of my life is being a parent and a grandparent,” says Smith, the father of five, who is called “G-Daddy” by his 14 grandkids.  “I want to serve the next generation well.  That’s why I created Nurturing Steps, to provide stories and songs that will help shape the faith of our newest generation.”

I have been a fan of Michael W Smith since I was a teenager.  I love his music.  And now, I love this book.  It is a cute story that we can share with our kids.  It is not just any story, it has a great message. 

For all the latest Nurturing Steps news, go to www.nurturingsteps.com.  To connect with Michael W. Smith, go to www.michaelwsmith.com, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.

On the Go Snacking

By now you are back in session, school that is.  School has started, routines are back to normal, and the schedules are starting to fill up with after-school activities, practices, and games.

Thanks to Fresh Cravings for sending samples for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

My schedule fills up super fast when school starts.  I am sure that is the same for all parents with school aged kids.  From packing the school lunches to running to a practice, we all have one thing in common.  We look for easy on-the-go snacks that our kids will enjoy.  But what about mom and dad?  Do you ever grab something for you?  Or are you like me, starving? 

 Who doesn't love chips and salsa?  Introducing Fresh Cravings salsa.

Made with fresh vine-ripened tomatoes and crisp, hand-picked vegetables, along with zesty peppers and spices, Fresh Cravings salsa is never cooked, which gives it a fresh authentic taste.  These snack packs come in Fresh Cravings’ most popular recipe, Restaurant Style, in Mild heat.  They include just the right amount of tortilla chips for it to be a nourishing treat without worrying about portion control.  They are sold in Walmart stores for $1.78 and can be found in the produce section.

“We continuously hear from our customers that they want healthier, more affordable snacking solutions for their families,” says Jay Whitney, President of FoodStory Brands, the company behind Fresh Cravings.  “We developed this Fresh Cravings Salsa and Tortilla Chips combo to help parents find a fun, and more nourishing snack for their kids and for themselves.”

Whether I pack them for my lunch for work or grab a snack for mommy to sit on the sidelines with while watching practice, this is the perfect grab-and-go snack.

Hot Hot Baby #SunnyMoments

Boy do we love our fun in the sun.  Did you know even on gloomy days, the sun is still harmful?  Even if it is cloudy, 80% of the sun's rays can be pass through clouds.  We have to take precautions to protect ourselves and our babies from sun damage.

 
Thanks to Aveeno for sending product samples for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

The sun's ultra violet rays can be most harmful between the hours of 10 am to 4 pm.  This when they are extremely damaging because they are the strongest which is why they should be avoided.  Our skin is our largest organ of the body.  Aveeno Baby's Pediatrician Dr. Andres Cotton says, "Our skin is the first barrier our bodies have to protect itself." 

Here are some things to remember:

1)  Direct sunlight is not recommended for babies less than 6 months old.

2)  Keep babies shaded by putting light colored, thin clothing that covers their arms and legs and don't forget the hats. 

3)   When children are outdoors, make sure to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF30 or more that can protect against UVA and UVB.

4)  Always remember to apply sunscreen to nose, cheeks, tops of ears, and feet.  You can use a face stick like the Aveeno Baby Continous Protection Sensitive Skin to make application easier.  And never forget the shoulders.

5)  Apply sunscreen 10-15 minutes before fun in the sun so that product can absorb into the skin.             Reapplying every 2 hours.

Aveeno has been a preferred brand in my home.  It is the brand I trust for my daughter's sensitive skin.  It is pediatrician and dermatologist recommended for the entire family. 

Up Up and Away-Kid Travel Tips

Our first family trip this year happened to be my daughter's first flight ever.  What can I say, we are a family that enjoys road trips.  This time would be a different experience for our family.  Planning a trip with a small child is hard.  When you go on road trips, you can over pack as much as you want.  Not when you are flying.  This trip took a little planning ahead.  

But no matter how much planning, don't you always manage to leave something behind.  My daughter left her coat on the couch.  I wanted to have it out so that when we landed, it was ready to be put on.  That did not happen.

Here are some things that I did plan right for traveling with children:

1)  Tablet-We fully charged my daughter's table and did not forget her charger.

2)  Phone-We have an extra phone for my daughter to be able to use apps, watch video, etc while her tablet is charging as back up.

3)  Chargers/Power banks-We had enough power banks and chargers just in case.  Our plane actually had power outlets.

4)  Snacks-Not only because I know food is an arm and a leg a the airport but also because kids.  Moms know that snacks a must.  At the airport, we did have to pull food items out at the security check.  Once these went through, we place them back in my daughter's bag.

5)  Gum-You know you hate when your ears pop.

6)  Pillow/blanket-Airplanes can be very uncomfortable.  Familiars things can help your kids with comfort in an uncomfortable, tight situation.

7)  Head phones-Do not forget the head phones. Our plane had a free movies playing but none of us could hear the movie, except my daughter who enjoyed watching one of her favorites, Coco. 

8)  Coloring Book/colors-The dollar store has small activity books.  And for the crayons, I actually had gotten an extra box at a restaurant that I packed in her bag. 

Now, packing her luggage was even harder.  My daughter is always hot and remember the whole thing about her forgetting her coat.  Luckily this mami planned ahead, here is how:

1)  Undershirts-Since our trip was to Chicago, long sleeve was our choice.  I even brought some turtlenecks.

2)  Leggings/jogging pants-Jeans can be restricting, thick, and sometimes hot.  Elastic bands or non-restricting waist can be more comfortable.

It is always good to wear your most comfortable pair of shoes.  So remember that when you pack your kids luggage too.  This may not be the best time to break in new shoes.

All in all we had a great experience.  My daughter was like a seasoned pro.  She had many questions a long the way and I was happy to answer all of them.  I was an adult when I took my first flight anywhere.  I am glad that my kids get to travel from a small age.  My daughter is already asking when are we going back to Chicago.  And Paris is on her wish list, too.

Giveaway-Stride Rite #FitTopia Tour Spring 2018

The perfect fitting shoe can be hard to find.  I know when my daughter was little we wondered what shoes would be best for her.

This is a sponsored post in collaboration with Stride Rite.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

There is no doubt about it that my daughter's first pair of shoes where Stride Rite.  Stride Rite has been a favorite for comfort, style, and design since she took her first steps.

It is important as our kids continue to grow that we fit their little feet with the healthiest fitting shoes.  Our kids have growth spurts which includes their feet.

Stride Rite made their first stop in their Fit-Topia Spring Tour at the McDonald's Children's Festival in Houston.   A family friendly event that includes a hands on lei making station,

an Instagram-able swing photo experience, light-up displays, and goody bags.  This tropical tour is bringing you the latest Stride Rite styles for you to check out and your little can get fitted by an on-site expert.

Fit-Topia is headed to nine more cities across the US...

April 25, San Jose, CA - Santana Row Pop Up

• April 28-29, San Diego, CA - Kids Expo
• May 5, Charlotte, NC - MommyCon
• May 13, Boston, MA - Friends of the Public Garden Duckling Parade
• May 17, Chicago, IL - Navy Pier Pop Up
• ...and a surprise location to be announced!


Don't forget to check the Phibian Lighted-the sandals are the first to market for kid’s water-resistant and machine washable shoe with light up technology that glows with every step. The new fashions feature a more athletic inspired silhouette.  Available in sizes 11-3 for $46

Thanks to Stride Rite, one lucky reader will be able to win (1) Stride Rite pair of shoes.  Enter below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is US only.  The winner will have 24 hours to claim their prize.  Good luck.

Snap To It Family Time

With winter break coming, have you thought about what you and the kids will be doing for two weeks?  I like thinking of creative ways we can share family time together that we can all enjoy.

Thanks to Revell for sending sample product for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

What ideas come to mind?  The weather can be unpredictable sometimes.  Planning things outdoors can sometimes be back fire, so I try to have back up plans.

Did you ever build a model as a kid?  Model car, plane, train, etc...  How much fun was it?

Scooby-Doo Bi Plane Snaptite Model Kit-

Model Includes:

• Highly detailed bi-plane

• 3 Characters ready to fly (Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, and Velma)

• Fun and bright model design

Lil Bit got help from Daddy.  The directions are numbered, have big pictures, and only a few steps that are easy to follow.

Kit does come with a caution to position all parts carefully because they will only snap together once.

My Little Pony Equestria Girls – Magical Movie Night

Do you have a My Little Pony lover in your home?  We have a pony lover in our house.

My daughter received a copy of My Little Pony Equestria Girls – Magical Movie Night for review.  All opinions stated are our own based on our personal experience.

Full-time students and part-time magical pony-girls, the Equestria Girls are always ready to save the day with the Magic of Friendship! So, gather round for three mystical adventures:

Dance Magic

With the Camp Everfree fundraising deadline looming, the Equestria Girls realize they need a new plan to raise more money and are ready to try new things. Rarity finds out about a music video competition, with a huge cash prize, and she’s eager to convince her friends at Canterlot High to enter the contest. However, the girls soon learn that Crystal Prep Academy is also interested in participating in the contest. The students at CPA have many more resources and are better dancers! The girls learn that sometimes coming together instead of competing is the best plan of all!

Movie Magic

The Equestria Girls have been specially invited by A.K. Yearling to go on the set of the upcoming Daring Do movie and they are overjoyed. For super-fan Rainbow Dash, watching behind the scenes as her favorite heroine comes to life is a dream come true. However, when a rare and important prop from the set goes missing, putting the movie on hold, Rainbow Dash’s dream becomes a nightmare. The Equestria Girls take it upon themselves to track down the missing prop and end up trotting into a real-life Daring Do adventure!

Mirror Magic

As the pages in her journal run out, there’s only one thing for Sunset Shimmer to do: return to Equestria as a pony to get a new journal! There, she meets new pony Starlight Glimmer and agrees to bring her back through the mirror portal to experience life as a human girl at Canterlot High. However, while Sunset Shimmer is away, a revenge‐seeking Juniper Montage finds a beautiful hand mirror enchanted with Equestrian magic. Not only can it provide a window into another land, but if you push the right button, It can also make things disappear into limbo, trapped between the two realms! Sunset Shimmer and Starlight Glimmer return to find the Mane 6 missing and Juniper Montage acting extremely suspicious. Will Sunset Shimmer and Starlight Glimmer save the girls, or are the Mane 6 lost in limbo for good?

My Little Pony Equestria Girls – Magical Movie Night comes to DVD on today from Shout! Kids in collaboration with Hasbro Studios.

Your pony won't want to miss these next adventures.  

Not Feeling PreK

We have had a rough start to our Academic career.  We have a feisty four year old who was not feeling PreK.  Littles sometimes do not know how to deal with change.  Their little worlds are turned upside down.  New routines, schedules, people, and places can be a lot for anyone to get used to.  A whole lot of new and none of the old comforts can be so scary.  This is exactly what happened. 

My poor daughter did not know how to deal with all that was going on.  Her emotions were all over the place.  As parent, we tried it all trying to find something to help her and at times we felt a little helpless.  We can try to control everything but some things are out of our hands.

Thanks to Moodsters for sending a character and sticker activity book.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

The school has been great and the teacher has been so helpful.  One of the suggestions they had for us was to get a sticker chart at home for our daughter's success.  We worked on a strategy that we could do at school and at home.  And it has been successfully working for us.  We work daily on handling our emotions wherever we go.  The sticker idea was a great idea.  

The Moodsters Plush Characters and Sticker Activity Books are based on the five lovable Moodsters detectives - Coz, Lolly, Quigly, Razzy, and Snorf - that each personify an emotion that all children experience in their everyday lives including happiness, anger, love, sadness and fear. Additional details include:

• Each plush character features sayings specific to the emotions they represent
• Comes with a fun and educational activity book to learn about each feeling

Lolly and the Moodsters sticker activity book was a great way to help us continue to talk to our daughter.  The book comes with guidelines and full of activities to help you and your child with their moods.  Ever have your kiddo throw a tantrum, why not give them a way to work through their emotions. 

At the point when I felt helpless, I was willing to try anything.  Who knew old school ways-stickers, would do the trick?  I did not know how we would get through the school year after that first week of school.  Now I see a light and am glad our daughter can have good days not only at home but at school too. 

Beating the Sickly Blues

My daughter started Pre-K this year.  She is now in big girl school.  One of the papers we received in our school package was the attendance policy.  We can plan for everything but we cannot predict if and when our kids will catch a cold.  All we can do is find relief for them, so they can get better sooner.

Thanks to Little Remedies and Walgreens for sending samples for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

Little Remedies provides families with safe and reliable formulas, using only the necessary ingredients to support the health and well-being of infants and children.

1. Little Remedies Sterile Saline Nasal Mist & Spray/Drop: Non-medicated relief that safely soothes and moisturizes dry, crusty nasal passages caused by low humidity, heated environments, air travel, allergies or colds.  It is 100% natural.  Suggested for all ages.

2. Little Remedies Gas Relief Drops: Helps relieve stomach discomfort due to excess gas.  It has no artificial flavors, no artificial colors or dye, no Saccharin or alcohol, and gluten free.  Suggested for all ages.   

3. Little Remedies Probiotics Plus Electrolytes (Digestive): It combines a probiotic and electrolytes in one convenient packet.  It helps maintain digestive health and help support hydration.  It has no artificial flavors, no dyes, and is gluten free.  Suggested for ages 1+.

When my son was born, he rarely got sick.  My daughter on the other hand regularly catches colds.  That is one of the differences when you go to daycare instead of grandma watching you at your own home.  My daughter would also suffer from tummy problems.  The nurse practitioner recommended us using natural remedies.  The doctor also explained how some kids are over medicated with too many antibiotics.  Little Remedies has always helped my daughter feel better when she needed relief and continues to help her now.  I hate to see my babies sick and I don't want them missing school either.

You can find Little Remedies at your local Walgreens.  From now through November 5^th with the purchase of $15+ of Little Remedies products, you can receive 30% off at your local Walgreens Photo Center.

Wordless Wednesday-McDonald's Houston Children's Festival

Easter Basket Ideas for the Littles

This year we are going to be attending more than one Easter egg hunt.  What kid needs all that candy?  Not mine.  So I got a little bit creative with this year's Easter basket from mami and papi.

I normally do not go all out on an Easter basket.  One year I ran out and got a prepackage one that was way over prized.  I hate to admit that all those Pinterest Perfect moms made me feel bad because I did not make my kid a basket, or create something cute.  My daughter is only 4.  I feel I am learning and getting better at this.  No one should make you feel bad that you do or do not get your kid an Easter basket.  If you want to, then do it.  If you don't, then don't.  If you do choose to get your littles basket, it should not break the bank.  I stopped at the dollar store to get some of my goodies.  Here is what I have in the above Easter basket for my Lil Bit:

1)  Basket-This is a recycled basket that I already had.  I actually counted and my daughter has 4 Easter baskets.  These are starting to multiply and I have something to do with it.  So I instead of buying a new basket, I used this one and it happens to be the perfect color I was looking for.

2)  Grass-It is messy.  What do you do with it afterwards?  I actually was at Walmart during my lunch hour and found they have several rollback racks in the middle aisles.  I found cute character t-shirts for $1.00.  I used one of these shirts as my "grass".

3)  Eggs-Every Easter basket needs eggs with wonderful surprises inside.  (I actually got some really cute chick eggs last year on clearance after Easter.  Those were not used in this basket but will be used for one of the egg hunts.)  Since my daughter will be attending several parties, candy is not on my list of goodies in these eggs.  I decided to stuff the eggs with other useful things that my daughter likes, needs, and were the right size.
-kid's nail polish (Disney multi pack)-2 fit perfect in a larger egg, or 1 in a regular size egg
-socks-1 pair fit in the larger size eggs.  My daughter loves colorful socks.  The dollar store carries character socks.  I also thought of doing undies, but we have plenty from back to school time.  Those character undies come in multi packs.  You can probably get 1 in each egg. 
-hair accessories-small hair bows can be used to decorate the basket or they can be placed inside the eggs.  The size of the bow will determine the size of the egg.  The dollar store carries a lot of different hair accessories.

4)  Toys-Most kids always want toys.  My kid does need anymore toys.  Her birthday and Christmas just passed.  We still have gifts that are in the boxes, unused.  I decided to get my daughter a useful toy like chalk.  We have a chalkboard wall in our kitchen.  She loves to color, write, and draw.  I found a big box of chalk at the dollar store and they even had the fancy chalk holders.  My daughter needs this, because she keeps breaking her chalks.  Once they are broken, she does not want them.  This chalk can also be used on the sidewalk perfect for any Spring day.
Movies-If you want to splurge on a big ticket item, why not spend money on something your kiddo will use over and over.  Summer will be here soon enough and my kids love to watch movies.
Plush-I do not do stuff animals.  What do you do with so many stuffed animals?  It is an asthma sufferers hell when those things get all dusty.  Someone has to dust them off.  But I do get the kids small collective figurines, dolls, or action figures.  This year I found a replacement for the little chick my daughter loved.  Both of hers from a previous basket broke, and she loved those little chicks.

Do you get your kids' Easter baskets?  Have you gotten your kiddos baskets ready this year?  What are some things you add to your basket?  I am already thinking about next year's...

***CLOSED***Giveaway-Monster High: Great Scarrier Reef

Do you have a Monster High fan in your house?  Did you know that Monster High: Great Scarrier Reef was just released on Blu-ray?

Splash into a Whole New Monster High™ World!  Join your favorite ghoul friends in an all-new aquatic adventure!  When the ghouls get pulled into the school pool, they’re transported to the gore-geous underwater world of the Great Scarrier Reef.  Lagoona realizes she's come home and, in a fintastic mission of the heart, decides to come to terms with her own freaky flaws.  Of course she’ll need some help from the most creeperiffic friends ever as she confronts a frenemy from her past, competes in a scaretastic dance extravaganza, and fights a terrible beast from the deep!

This Blu-ray will make a perfect addition to any Easter basket.  If you have a little ghoul lover, don't forget to grab this while picking those goodies.  (By the way this title has not been licensed to Netflix.)  Do you want to win a copy?

Enter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Making your Kids Early Readers with Fun Children's Magazines

My daughter is at that age where she wants to start learning how to read.  She pretends and story tells.  As her proud mom, I love that she likes Reading.  Reading has not been a popular subject for myself or my son but apparently daddy and daughter do love this subject.  So of course, I want to support her joy.  I have been looking for literature she can enjoy.

Note-I am a USFG blogger.  I received some Redan Publishing Magazines for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

When you subscribe and you'll get:

• FREE delivery before it's in stores
• Lock in low price
• FREE to switch magazine titles at any time
• Available in the US only

I like that these magazines are kid friendly.  They are age appropriate.  They have many different titles to choose from.  You can find your child's favorite characters.

Each magazine will have activities, stories, crafts, posters, and so much more.  You can also win prizes in the Readers' picture gallery. 

 

My daughter is not in school yet and does not have to do homework.  So everyday she picks a different page from the magazine for us to do.  Some pages she can do on her own, other she needs my help.  

This is a perfect activity for weekends, school breaks, or holidays.  Go to Redan.com for more information or to place your order today.      

Toddler Friendly Jewelry

***Disclosure-Sample product was received for your review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

My daughter loves to play with my jewelry but she is still a toddler.  What do most babies and toddlers do?  They stick everything in their mouth.  I have been looking for jewelry that is kid friendly and that she would like.  I happen to have a little diva.

My princess received the Spring Heart Necklace from Juniorbeads.

Juniorbeads is children's jewelry made for ages 3 and up.  It is safe for your kids because it has no BPA, no phthalates, no cadmium, no lead, and no metals.  The beads are 100% silicone (similar to pacifiers and nipples).  Necklaces have a breakaway clasp for added safety.  Jewelry can be used as a sensory tool.  (If using as a sensory tool, please use under adult supervision.)  Easy to clean, just use dish soap and water, also dishwasher safe too.

Your daughter will love these.  They are available in different colors.  They also have dog tags and bangles.  And best of all some even glow in the dark. 

If you have baby, you may want to try Chewbeads.

Chewbeads are stylish and add extra interest and color to your outfit.  They are completely safe for your baby or toddler to chew on when they are teething.  Baby-safe jewelry is a great gift for new moms.  It is 100% safe silicone.  It is a piece of fashionable jewelry and e and not a string of baby toys hung around your neck.

For more information, go to: http://www.chewbeads.com/

Tasty Thursday-Chuck E Cheese

***Disclosure-Sponsored Post.  Any opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

My family and I were invited to come taste test the new thin crust pizza at Chuck E Cheese.

Chuck E Cheese is a family friendly place where we like to hang out.  Thanks to Chuck E Cheese, we received a complimentary thin and crispy pizza, 4 drinks, and some tokens.  After placing our order, I got to get a behind the scenes look and watch our order be made.  

First thing I noticed was the fresh ingredients.

Did you know that Gluten free is an option?  Yes, not only do they make their own dough on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays but they also offer their guests a gluten free option.  Gluten free dough comes in pre-packed.  It even comes with it's on cutting tools.  It is handled separately.  We went with regular dough for our thin crust experience.

 Next is the sauce....spread all over, not one spot missed

Then comes the cheese.  We all love cheese!

Bring on the P-E-P-P-E-R-O-N-I....

Now our pizza is ready to go into the oven....this is the before

4 1/2 minutes later....

Yes, you read that right.  Your pizza is fresh and ready after 4 1/2 minutes in the oven.  Ready to be cut and served for my hungry family.

The pizza was yummy.  We have always liked the pizza at Chuck E Cheese.  I like that they have thin crust now.  Most kiddos don't like eating the crust or any part without cheese or pepperoni.  But clearly you can see, that every slice has cheese and pepperoni.  

We had an awesome time, like always.  Thanks to the Chuck E Cheese on Weslayan for allowing me to step behind the scenes of this location.

Tips-

1)  Go on off peak times so it will not be so crowded.

2)  Don't forget your coupons.  

3)  You can also go online and print reward calendars.

4)  Have fun!  Remember this is the place- Where a Kid can be a Kid! 

*In a blind taste test of 413 respondents, 57% preferred Chuck E. Cheese's Thin & Crispy Pepperoni Pizza to Pizza Hut's® Thin & Crispy Pepperoni.  (© The Pizza Hut name, logos and related marks are trademarks of Pizza Hut, Inc.)

Flick Friday-My Little Pony Tales

***Disclosure-Sample product was received for review.  All opinions stated are my own based on my personal experience.

Did you grow up watching My Little Pony?  It was one of my favorite shows.  I wanted to collect all the ponies.  Well this classic TV series has been put together on DVD and it is coming April 28.

It is a 2-DVD set that includes all 13 episodes of the show, originally airing on television in 1992, as well as sing-alongs.  You can rejoin your 7 Pony Friends—Starlight, Sweetheart, Melody, Bright Eyes, Patch, Clover and Bon Bon. 

Episodes include:

Disc 1                                                                                

Slumber Party / Too Sick To Notice                                 

Battle Of The Bands / And The Winner Is…                        

Stand By Me / The Tea Party                                              

The Masquerade / Out Of Luck                                          

The Play’s The Thing / Shop Talk                                    

Impractical Joker/ The Great Lemonade Stand Wars        

Blue Ribbon Blues / Roll Around The Clock

Disc 2

Princess Problems / An Apple For Starlight

Up, Up And Away / Sister Of The Bride

Birds Of A Feather / Send In The Clown

Happy Birthday, Sweetheart / Gribet

Bon Bon’s Diary / Just For Kicks

Ponies In Paradise / Who’s Responsible

Bonus Features:

Sing-Alongs

My daughter was fascinated with the ponies.  When I popped in the DVD, she was glued.  She wanted to keep watching to see all the pony adventures.  She loves horses, unicorns, and ponies.  These DVDs have now become her favorite to watch.  We even have to take them with us so she can watch in the car when we go places.  If you have a little girl, I recommend getting this set.  I know I enjoyed watching them with my daughter.  It took me back to my childhood.