Thursday, November 29, 2012

Tinkertoy® Transit Building Set {Review & Giveaway}

Tinkertoy® Transit Building Set 
{Review & Giveaway}

Does your child(ren) love to build? Mine do! Logan & Kira will build with anything and everything they can get their hands on... even the pillows on the couch. I enjoy giving them toys that encourage them to play together, build and use their imagination! I received the Tinkertoy® Transit Building Set to review. 


Tinkertoy® Transit Building Set is intended for kids ages 3 and up. It comes with a manual to help guide and encourage the kids to build a train, garage, bridge and more. Of course Logan saw the photo of the train and that is the first creation we had to work on together. I did most of the building. I had Logan tell me what pieces I needed and where they should go... and together we made a train.


The Tinkertoy® pieces are durable... which is great when you have a 3 and 5-year-old. My kids stepped on them, tossed them in the air, and "drove" them in the entryway. With 150 pieces, there is so much you can build. It's just enough for 2 kids to play together. The colors are bright, which is an attention grabber. Plus when you are done, you can use the box it came in for easy storage!

The kids really got into the Tinkertoy® Transit Building Set... and started to create their own designs! My mother loved this toy so much, she took it home with her so the kids have something fun to play with when they visit!



WIN IT!
One lucky reader will WIN the Tinkertoy® Transit Bldg Set
Simply follow the Rafflecopter entry form below! 
Giveaway ends 12/14/2012 at 12:00 am PST

Toot! Toot! Thomas the Tank Engine is coming to Santa Cruz {Giveaway}


Thomas the Tank Engine is bringing a special delivery of holiday cheer to children and families in Santa Cruz! The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Roaring Camp Railroads are pleased to announce the return of the children’s festival, Holiday Out With Thomas. Thomas the Tank Engine™, the popular storybook engine, chugs into Santa Cruz for what is becoming a seasonal tradition starting December 8, 2012. 


The Holiday Out With Thomas event includes a 25 minute train ride led by a life-sized Thomas decorated for the holidays and ready to greet his friends in Santa Cruz. Festivities also include a spin on the Boardwalk’s 101-year old Looff Carousel, face painting, a choice of arcade games, miniature golf or laser tag; a “make and take” Thomas ornament, and photo opportunities with Holiday Thomas and Sir Topham Hatt, Controller of the Railway. Thomas& Friends™ merchandise will also be available. 
When: December 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, and 23
Train Hours: 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm
400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Holiday Out With Thomas tickets are $24.00 per person. Ticket price includes a 25 minute round-trip Thomas train ride departing from the Boardwalk featuring interactions with Santa and his elves, candy canes, holiday carols and a souvenir song book, face painting, a “make and take” Thomas ornament, a Carousel ride, plus a choice of arcade tokens, laser tag, or mini-golf on the Boardwalk.

For more information and reservations, please visit www.beachboardwalk.com/thomas . Tickets are also available by calling TicketWeb at 866-468-7630. Parking at the Boardwalk is $6 per car.

For more information about the Day Out With Thomas tour, visit www.thomasandfriends.com/dowt

I've taken the kids to the Day Out With Thomas event 3 years in a row. They love visiting their favorite blue engine! You can too! 

I've giving away a family 4-pack for Sunday, December 16th at 11:30 am. (The prize is just for 4 tickets. Winner will be responsible for transportation, parking, food, etc.) Simply follow the Rafflecopter entry below. Ends 12/13!

RoomMates $40 Gift Code Giveaway

RoomMates removable wall decals  

How many rooms do you have in your house? Are they all white? Plain? Need a little pizzazz? Looking to surprise your child for Christmas with a NEW ROOM!!! I love RoomMates Wall Decals! For those of you NEW to RoomMates let me tell you a little about them. They manufacture wall decals, wall stickers, laptop skins, peel & stick mirrors, wall borders, XL wall murals, chalkboard wall decals, giant wall graphics, 3D wall decals, wallpaper, foam tiles, shelves... and so much more!

Three of our rooms are decorated with style thanks to RoomMates!

Kira's room has the Disney Fairies.
 Tinker Bell Giant Wall Decal with Glitter

Logan has the All Aboard MegaPack.
All Aboard MegaPack

And most recently we added the this tree to our livingroom...
and made it into our family tree.

The decals are easy to apply (as you can see in the photo above, Kira helped us put up the family tree)... and easy to move if needed. And yes, we have moved them... we redecorated Kira and Logan's rooms within the past year and had to move the decal. No problem at all... they peeled off (no damage to the wall/paint) and re-stuck them in a different location in their rooms. They are still clinging to the walls!

Interested in reading my past reviews? Click HERE

Buy It:
Are you ready to redecorate without the mess and fuss of painting? Use code GIVEAWAYTRAIN15 for 15% off your entire order (valid for US & Canada)! Just enter and apply the code in the shopping cart (this code can't be combined with other offers aside from the everyday free shipping on orders $49+). Expires at the end of the day on Dec. 15.

Win It:
One lucky reader will win a $40 gift code to RoomMates! (Open to US & CAN) Simply follow the Rafflecopter entry below. Ends 12/13!

Monday, November 26, 2012

MommyParties: #BatmanPowerAttack Sponsored by Mattel!

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Thanks to MommyParties (AKA: Mom Select) and Mattel for allowing my kids and their friends a chance to play with the amazing Batman Power Attack toys!

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Logan & Kira invited 8 of their good friends to attend our Batman Power Attack Party! Logan couldn't wait to open the toys... especially the Batmobile!

The Batman Power Attack Party Kit included:
  • 10 Batman Power Attack Basic Figures (one for each child who attended the party)
  • 4 Batman Power Attach Deluxe Figures
  • 1 Batman Power Attack Total Destruction Batmobile
  • 1 Batman Host Entertaining Party Pack - including Mylar balloons for each child, goodie bags, cups, plates, plastic table cloths, recipe suggestions & games!
We decided to host our party after school on Friday (11/16)... and they were ready to fight crime! Our super heroes needed some tasty treats to fuel them up! I made Gotham Grape Juice, Bats in a Blanket, Robin's Rolls Ups and Batmobile Wild Wheels Pasta Salad for everyone to snack on during the party (see recipes below).

Gotham Grape Juice: Gotham City might be home to some pretty scary villains but its residents know a few things about refreshment! This sweet adn tart punch will quench your thirst after all those adventures.

Ingredients:
  • 2 cups red grape juice
  • 2 cups white grape juice
  • 5 cups lemon-lime soda
Instructions:
  1. In a large punch bowl, combine the juices; mix well and chill.
  2. Add in chilled soda just before serving.
Not only was this juice easy to make, but both parents & kids love it!

Bats in a Blanket: Just like Batman is cloaked in his signature cape, these irresistible treats are wrapped in a neat little package!

Ingredients:
  • 1 package of mini hot dogs or cocktail wieners (I used regular hot dogs and cut them into 3 pieces)
  • 2 packages of crescent rolls
  • Mustard and ketchup for dipping
Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Unroll crescent rolls and cut each roll into thirds, making 3 small, long triangles strips.
  3. Starting at one end, roll hot dogs in crescent.
  4. Place on greased cookie sheet.
  5. Bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown.
  6. Serve with mustard or ketchup for dipping.
Another favorite! The bats disappeared quickly into the mouths of our super heroes!

Robin's Roll Ups: Batman's trusty side kick loves these tasty and healthy wraps for a great on-the-go snack!

Ingredients:
  • 4 tortilla wraps
  • 8 oz sliced chicken, ham, or roast beef
  • 1/2 cup of cream cheese
  • Lettuce
Instructions:
  1. Divide the cream cheese among the tortillas, spreading an even layer on each tortilla.
  2. Top each with the lunchmeat of your choice and lettuce.
  3. Roll tortilla tightly and cut into halves or thirds.
  4. You can serve immediately or place in plastic wrap and refrigerate for later.
Not a huge favorite... but I didn't put in the lettuce and I used bologna! Worth trying again.

Batmobile Wild Wheels Pasta Salad: This veggie-packed pasta dish will fuel your party-goers with energy for all their upcoming car chases!

Ingredients:
  • (1) 14 oz box wagon wheel pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 container cherry tomatoes (I opted not to add these since I am not a fan of tomatoes)
  • 1/2 cup Italian dressing
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Cheese
Instructions:
  1. Cook pasta according to directions on box, drain and set aside.
  2. Chop broccoli and tomatoes into small bite size pieces.
  3. Once the pasta has cooled to room temperature, gently mix in all ingredients.
  4. Stir in dressing ad cheese. Chill until ready to serve.
This was a great dish to have available, since one of my good friends is a vegetarian!


Beyond the food, the kids played while the adults talked and relaxed on the couch. We watched the kids run in and out of the bed rooms. Chasing each other with Batman figures in their hands. All of the adults were pleased with how durable the toys were. Only one toy broke and that's because two kids were playing tug-of-war with the Robin figure. His arm snapped off, but not to worry... Daddy had super glue (a man's best friend... super glue and duct tape).

The Batman Power Attack Total Destruction Batmobile was a favorite amongst all the children. The Batmobile can seat most six-inch Batman figures, so they could take turns taking the car around Gotham city! Plus, at the press of a button the battering ram can be deployed to push through any barrier... and it comes with 4 projectiles that the cannon can launch with a push of a button!

The basic figures are pretty cool... but the deluxe ones are amazing. With a squeeze they PUNCH through any thing or anyone with ease! Logan liked the deluxe figures so much he really wanted to buy a couple for his friend's birthday!


Trying to get all the kids in one photo presented a challenge (there were a total of 8 kids, 2 couldn't make it so we will give them their goodies later)... I should have taken a photo before the party. Oh well, all of the kids had fun. It was like a kid/Batman tornado hit my house! We had Batman figures "fighting" everywhere. It was a great party... and I am so happy that we were able to share with our friends.
 
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Disclosure: I was selected to be a host of MommyParties sponsored by Mattel. I was not paid to post, but I did receive product to host the party.

Cyber Monday: Buy a Medium Custom Gift Set, Get a FREE Gift (Today Only - Limitied Quantities)

If you order 2, then you will get 2 gifts + FREE shipping (use coupon code FREESHIP40)! 


Give the gift of ReNewell this holiday season!

The Medium Custom Gift Set includes 5 ReNewell Products:
* (1) Bath Bomb or (1) Dead Sea Bath Salt
* (1) Bubble Powder or (1) Whipped Body Butter
* (1) Solid Lotion Bar
* (1) Massage Oil
* (1) Lip Balm

(Comes in a holiday round box.)


YOUR FREE GIFT:
* (1) Whipped Body Butter
* (1) Dead Sea Bath Salt
* (1) Lip Balm

Don't forget to check out their Bath Bomb Sale (all Bath Bombs are 50% off)!

Monday, November 19, 2012

Review - Shari's Berries!


In need of some real gift inspiration? Don’t worry, for all those special calendar events and holidays, we love to make a fuss. It’s why we’re always updating our seasonal gift collection to include all kinds of yummy and festive favorites and new gift ideas. That means you can always log on to Shari’s Berries and find something scrumptious and sophisticated for Christmas. After all, who doesn’t love a great excuse to indulge in the sweeter side of life and one of our legendary trays of chocolate-dipped berries, gourmet cookie baskets or fun desserts? Bon appetit!  
So up until now I had never had Shari's Berries. I had always seen the commercials on TV and ads in magazines. Plus my sister in law always said she loved them. So when I got the opportunity to review Shari's Berries I jumped at the chance! Shari's Berries sent me the Cheesecake Trio and Half Dozen Drizzled Strawberries along with the Hand-Made Caramel and Pretzel Sampler.
    

 Yes they were trying to get me addicted. and they succeeded... these treats are AMAZING! The strawberries are the juiciest I have ever had and the chocolate is incredibly decadent and smooth. It's not too sugary sweet, you can tell that it's high quality. My husband pilfered the cheesecake right away but I got a few bites in and it was SO good. My favorite was the Rocky Road mini cheesecake. And by the way - they are not mini... two people can easily share a cheesecake (but really - why would you?) The Caramel and Pretzel Sampler was so delicious as well. A really nice variety of light, dark, and milk chocolate that complimented the caramel and toffee so perfectly. Delish! Shari's Berries is seriously one of the best gifts you could give someone! There are TONS of options and price ranges. My sister in law just may get some from me this year!

Be sure to use one of these Shari's Berries Coupon Codes for the BEST savings!

Visit Shari's Berries and Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with current specials!

#HolidayHelpers Giveaway - Snack Prize Pack from Cool Gear


We at Cool Gear pride ourselves on our reputation. Since 1986, we have been conceptualizing and developing ideas, turning them into products and bringing them to the marketplace. We deliver innovative and imaginative products to the marketplace while providing a 100% customer satisfaction policy.  
So my kids are at an age where they don't get bottles and sippy cups are the norm. BUT they also like their snacks. And we are often on the go so portability is a must. Cool Gear thinks so to - their products are all portable, easy to use, and most of all FUN! I was sent a Zooey Flip Top Cup and a Snacktime Cup for review:

Zooey Flip Top Cup

  • Squeezable material
  • 4 Fun Character designs
  • Non-toxic gel filled freezer stick keeps drinks cold
  • Flip-top straw cap
 

Snacktime Cup

  • BPA Free
  • Twist-off cookie container
  • Non-toxic gel filled top container keeps drink cold
  • Bottom container keeps snacks fresh
  • Flip-top sipper
  • Great for school, ideal for travel
The Zooey Flip Top Cup is SO cute - I love that the top flips closed so I can toss it in my bag and not have to worry about it spilling. It also has a freeze pack to keep the liquids cold all day :) BONUS! And my daughter loves it :) She is always asking for her "purple monkey"
 

 The Snacktime Cup is pretty awesome too - it's two parts - one straw cup and one snack container. They screw together to keep it all together and tidy :) You can also freeze the drink cup - the walls are filled with a gel to keep the drink insulated!

   
 Cool Gear also has some GREAT Christmas-themed cups! And they carry adults and kid items! PERFECT teacher gifts, kid friend gifts, an stocking stuffers!

You can find Cool Gear at Target, Walmart, Bed. Bath & Beyond, and several other retailers

WIN IT!

One lucky reader will WIN a Cool Zooey Flip Top Cup and Snacktime Set! Simply follow the rafflecopter entry below. Ends 11/30!

Sunday, November 18, 2012

#holidayhelpers Giveaway - WIN $30 to Bows Etc!

I have been making hair bows and other items for personal use for about 2 years. My little girl was my inspiration to let my crafty side show. I decided to start selling my items in 2012. I can make just about anything! I make hair bows, tutu's, hair bow holders and much more. I am always willing to try new things! 
 - Jessica, Creator of Bows, Etc
  
 Bows Etc has the cutest bows, ribbons, and more! You can check it out on the Bows Etc. Facebook page and Etsy - she offers custom embroidery and bow holders too. What a PERFECT gift for that special little girl! And as an advocate for small businesses I encourage you to take a look!


I kinda LOVE this cute Elephant! You can have any name or phrase embroidered on just about anything!
November Special: Spend $15.00 or more and receive 50% off of a bow holder and receive a coupon for $2.50 off your next order! Also, gift certificates are $3.00 off for the month! And Tutu's are 25% off! So now would be a great time to get your orders in for Christmas:) Shipping will be free on orders of $30.00 or more! Jessica also makes special orders so if you are looking for a particular style she can do it!

WIN IT!

One lucky reader will WIN a $30 Gift Certificate to Bows Etc! Simply follow the Rafflecopter entry below. Ends 11/30!

Holiday Helpers - the Giveaways!


Here's a list of all of the giveaways! All end 11/30/2012!




Saturday, November 17, 2012

#HolidayHelpers Giveaway - $50 to Wind & Weather




We have a passion for the weather. We love to study clouds, gauge winds, count raindrops, predict storms, and track every single life-affecting detail. This boundless enthusiasm for all things meteorological began brewing in 1976 when Wind & Weather opened its doors on the beautiful north coast of California. Over three decades later, we're drenched in industry knowledge and experience, and recognized as a world-trusted supplier of weather instruments.

My mother is a huge fan of yard artwork. When Wind & Weather offered me a chance to review, I wanted to get my mom a special surprise. They are sending me the Illuminarie Anemometer Wind Spinner ~ review coming soon.


The Illuminarie Anemometer Wind Spinner gives movement to your backyard! The spinner moves in two different ways! As the wind blows, the cups catch the breeze and twirl in a fascinating dance. During the day, the blue-green ball absorbs the sun' s energy, so at night is glows in the dark. The spinner comes in 3 pieces that easily screw together and is made with sturdy metal. Please be careful... the globe is made of glass.

Wind & Weather has tons of amazing products... perfect for anyone on your holiday list!


Win It:
One lucky fan will win a $50 Gift Certificate (Limited to the U.S.). 
Simply follow the rafflecopter entry  below! Giveaway ends 11/30!

#HolidayHelpers - Kidorable Umbrella


Kidorable Raincoats  

Is your kid Kidorable?
I know both of my kiddos are...

thanks to Kidorable!


Liping Yang and Jonathan Domsky founded Kidorable in 1997. Creating a line of clothing that was fun for kids, yet functional. Over 10 years of being in the business, they have grown world-wide as a leading designer and wholesaler of children's products! 
Kidorable delights both children and the adults who love them by transforming everyday, functional kids accessories into objects that excite their imaginations and enrich their lives at play. From rainwear to backpacks to knitwear and towels, Kidorable speaks to the precious spirit of childhood. 
13 styles to choose from ~ Dragon Knight, Ballerina, Butterfly, Dinosaur, Fairy, Fireman, Frog, Ladybug, Lotus Flower, Lucky Cat, Mermaid, Pirate & Space Hero.
It's the details that really make them special.
And the customer service is AMAZING! 

WIN IT:

One lucky reader will receive Kidorable Umbrella!
(Winner's choice; $13.50 value)
 
 (Limited to the U.S.). 
Simply follow the rafflecopter entry  below! 
Giveaway ends 11/30!