A to Z for Moms Like Me

Mega Bloks Blok Squad

2012-02-11T06:22:00.000-08:00

We were able to review this set of Mega Bloks recently. This is definitely a set that you get your money's worth! My 3 boys were going crazy over this set from the moment we opened it.

Pros & cons- there are a LOT of small pieces so even though it says ages 5+ keep that in mind according to your kids, it took a little bit of time to figure out which parts were meant to build which item (boat, bus, or car) but that could have been because my boys were so excited they opened it without me. A cool aspect of it is that because there's so many small parts and they all work great together it allows for creativity to create a lot of things not shown. (I love seeing what my boys come up with) Pay close attention to the instructions for where the stickers go.

You will want a nice container to keep all the small parts in when they're not being played with.

Check out their website: http://www.megabrands.com/

Cornbread Sauce

2012-02-02T07:14:00.000-08:00

This is a sweet sauce we always have over cornbread, you can also serve it over pancakes ,carrot cake, waffles etc. It's best when it's warm.

1 c. whipping cream

½ c. butter

1 c. sugar

1 t. vanilla

Stir first 3 in a sauce pan over low heat until sugar dissolved. DO NOT BOIL! Cool slightly, add vanilla. Blend in blender on low speed for 30 seconds-1 minute. Serve warm on cornbread, waffles, French toast, pancakes, carrot cake, and plum pudding.

Pineapple Orange Cookies

2012-01-31T07:31:00.000-08:00

These are a unique cookie my mom used to make every year for my brother's birthday since they are his favorite. These will be REALLY soft cookies!

1 c Crisco

3 eggs

1 c. pineapple juice (from can of crushed pineapple)

1 t baking powder

5 c flour

2 c white sugar

½ c. buttermilk (or milk w/ 1 T vinegar instead)

1 t baking soda

½ t salt

1 can crushed pineapple

Mix all together. May need to add more flour if dough is too sticky.

Bake at 350 for 12-15 mins

Frost with Orange frosting:

1 cube butter

1 lb powdered sugar

4 TBSP orange juice concentrate

No water

Mix with mixer till smooth.

Valentine's Day Ideas

2012-01-30T06:07:00.000-08:00

With Valentine's Day coming up soon I've been thinking about some of the fun ways we have celebrated it in the past.

Growing up, my mom would make pink heart shaped pancakes for breakfast. All you do is add a few drops of red food coloring to the pancake mix, and when cooking the pancake: make 2 circles close together, then use the spoon to make a point at the bottom. (also known as Dolly Parton hearts)

One year we were pretty broke and couldn't afford to go out on a date for Valentine's, so I spent the day cooking an amazing dinner. I made homemade spaghetti sauce, and when I put it on the plate I poured the sauce into a heart shape over the noodles. I also made homemade bread sticks to go with it. Then for dessert I made red jell-o and had it set up in some fancy glasses, then a second batch of red jell-o I made jigglers out of and cut a heart shape. I put a glob of whipping cream on top of the jell-o in the fancy cup, then placed the heart jiggler on the whipping cream. It was cheap, easy, and cute! Then I set up the table with candles of course and a nice table cloth. And no romantic dinner is complete without sparkling apple juice! Now that I type this the Jell-o idea sounds fun, I may just have to make that and post a picture soon!

A few years ago I found a heart shaped waffle maker. My kids thought that was a pretty cool breakfast! Color the pancake batter red like you would for the pancakes. Serving with strawberries, cool whip and other fruits can jazz it up a little.

Strawberry-banana smoothies in a nice glass, or with a fancy Valentine's straw can be done any time of the day.

Since this year I will be in the hospital having our baby on Valentine's Day, my family will get a pre-made gift. I am also making up a cute gift for the hospital staff. There are so many cute ideas on Pinterest- if you haven't checked out their site feel free to email me your email address for an invite! atozformomslikeme@gmail.com and/or follow me: JoDee Mason

This is the cute idea I'm going to make up for the hospital staff. Well, I'm going to make a version of it at least. My sister has the best candied popcorn recipe that has coconut and a sweet glaze (also nuts which I don't use because of my daughter's allergies) I'm going to add Valentine colored M&M's to it and bag it up similar to this one. Mostly I chose to change it because my sister's recipe sounds better than just white chocolate poured over the popcorn.

Feel free to share some of your cute projects, ideas, and ways you've celebrated in the past!

2012-01-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

We had the chance to review the new Dagedar DS game. This is a game my boys love! I on the other hand stink at it and just can not grasp the game enough to win even one race. At first my 8 year old son said it was a really hard game and he wasn't sure he liked it, but then after playing it some more he really enjoyed it.
Here's my take on it- as an untalented parent that knew nothing about the game or toy (other than breif commercials on tv and my kids talking about them) To play you pick which ball charecter you're going to be, then you pick a track to race on. The tracks are kind of a cross between a roller coaster & outter space looking to me. You use the arrows to direct the dagedar where you want it to go.

Here's the official info on the game:

The competitive racing video game based on the popular DaGeDar™ brand of racing balls is available now for the suggested retail price of $19.99.

Battle it out with your friends or race evil spirits alone; DaGeDar’s virtual raceway will keep you playing for hours. With more than 30 fast and furious raceways, you’ll be looping, dropping, climbing, and banking your way to the end with fury, but watch out for the blocks and gaps in the raceway! Featuring 100 collectable balls with unique abilities, as well as special, limited edition characters, you’ll have a blast collecting and trading your favorite DaGeDar items. Whether playing alone or sharing with a friend using the game’s multiplayer download options, the action-packed world of DaGeDar will keep you hungry for more racing, collecting and conquering of evil spirits in a unique 33rd dimension world.

Additional DaGeDar game features:

Collectables:Unlock and collect up to 100 DaGeDar racing balls, for collectable and trading fun! Special limited edition, cool characters available too!

Unique Race Abilities: Each ball carries abilities of Acceleration, Top Speed, Defense and Attack modes.

Rewards: Earn DeGaDar points at the end of every race for special rewards and bonuses!

What's Happened to Society??!?!??!

2012-01-13T13:48:00.000-08:00

After a discussion with my husband the other night I thought I would post to get your comments and thoughts.
We were talking about the changes in society for the worse- crime, obesity, teen pregnancy, health problems, entitlement attitudes, waste, debt, and so many other issues that the majority of people did not have as a regular part of their life 50 years ago.

We came to a few conclusions we think strongly contribute or caused these:

Moms going to work.

with moms going to work to provide a "better" life financially for the family, or because of the need as a consequence of single parent homes, there were a list on consequences such as:

lack of supervision for children
less time spent teaching children life skills
daughters not being taught domestic skills such as cooking, sewing, etc
meals changed from home-made to quick and easy freezer meals, processed foods, and fast foods
kids not supervised in doing chores and/or expectations decreased
more teen pregnancy from lack of both supervision, and education
guilt of the parents for not spending time with kids result in spoiling and letting them get away with more
financial spending of the family increase according to available income until it becomes necessary for both parents to work
obese and unhealthy family members from eating quick but unhealthy foods
lack of emotional support for children and validation for parents
kids left to the influences of the world- friends, TV, books etc without guidance

without the mom (or dad) at home to teach, give example, and offer an adult presence kids are left to raise themselves. Just like if you were to have your kid clean the bathroom without showing them how, the quality of work would be a lot less than if they were taught step by step what to do and how. I can only imagine what my house would look and smell like if the kids were left to do everything to their standards!! Picture a house from the show "Hoarders" and a menu from Charlie & the Chocolate Factory.

2. More foods processed and less home-made.

As time became an issue for most Americans, the microwave came to the rescue! Then along came TV dinners because heaven forbid we should miss our favorite TV show because of dinner time. Then since heating up a TV dinner became too time consuming we were offered fast food. Dollar menu's offer the illusion of a meal cheaper (but not healthier) than you could make yourself. If you don't think fast food makes you unhealthy or affects your body I dare you to watch the show "Supersize Me". It will change the way you look at fast food forever.
We have to remember, the companies that process foods for cheap sale are in it for a profit. So in order to make the product stretch further they add things to it. Don't believe me? a simple google or bing search of the ingredients of some of your favorite processed or fast foods will be enlightening. Here's just a couple that I have read that have taken my desire for processed and fast foods away:

McDonald's Chicken Nuggets- check out the ingredients list.

Fake blueberries in advertised products

What's in your fast food?

Who serves wood in your food?

One site that I like the suggestions of for eating healthy is:

7 rules for eatting

Bottom line= READ THE LABELS OF YOUR FOOD!! Don't trust the marketing of the company trying to sell you their product.
I've never been big on fast food, or soda pop so they are fairly easy for me to avoid. But I must admit there are a few items I was disappointed to see on the lists. So the plan is to avoid as much as possible- knowing that my 3 weaknesses: pizza, ice cream, and chocolate will keep me from going too paranoid and extreme!

3. Violence in media- TV, movies, music

Some may suggest that the news can be just as violent as a superficial reality of TV, movies, or music but here is my opinion: Media takes what is acceptable, known, or tolerated by society and goes one step further to create the "shock" factor that interests us and keeps us spending our money. Then once people witness the shock factor over and over again it becomes tolerated and accepted as a new standard of what's ok. Crimes then begin to mirror this new standard, and in turn the media needs to take another step to create a new shock factor. So they build upon each other by taking what one has taught to be acceptable and going further. That's my opinion and analysis of it at least :)

4. Standards becoming "grey"

OK, I know I'll probably get some heat for this one but it was part of our discussion. It seems that right and wrong have been blended into grey areas of what's not right but ok, and not wrong but not that bad. Justifications and rationalizations are seen everywhere. When you stop to take something at a simple context of what does it truly mean then the answer is usually obvious. It is also easier to justify your actions if there is no consequence of a God, or the option of believing in a God that will let you do the things you want with little or no repentance.

One thing my husband pointed out to me was that society has taken people and done the following:
when there's an abnormal issue or behavior it's first classified as a "condition" which may or may not require medication (conveniently)
then the condition becomes an identity- it's just who they are, not a choice or anything they can do anything about.
With this evolution in attitude comes lack of personal responsibility and accountability.

5. Selfishness & Entitlement

Lastly, I have to mention the observation of selfishness and entitlement as a society. It seems more and more people are concerned about themselves and what they get or are entitled to rather than a desire to help, volunteer, and serve others to better the whole. It's an attitude about "me me me" rather than spending time thinking about what we can do ourselves to improve our life or situation, I'm willing to bet that the majority of people spend time thinking about who can help them. Yes even day-dreaming about the lottery counts! (I'm TOTALLY guilty of this one haha) Think about the story of stone soup. A Village that was so poor no one could feed their own family, yet they were so selfish none wanted to share for the whole. It wasn't until a stranger came and convinced them all into sharing what little they had and before you know it there was plenty of food for everyone!

Well there you have it! This was basically the conclusion of our conversation. What do you think?

Chipwrecked Wii Game

2012-01-02T08:35:00.000-08:00

We've had the chance to review a new Wii game "Chipwrecked" based off the new Alvin & the Chipmunks movie Chipwrecked.
I wasn't sure what to expect when we first got the game. It's a sort of sing-along and dance-along game. Imagine DDR without the mats! You get to choose which chipmunk you want to be, your favorite songs (and there's some pretty cool ones to choose from- see list below) and then 3 of the chipmunks will appear on the screen to sing the song and dance.
Your job is to mimic the dance moves the chipmunks do. You get scored on your ability to do the moves and pass off certain moves.
The words to the song also go across the top in a sort of Karaoke fashion so you can sing along with them if you so desire.
I had fun watching my 10 year old daughter play this game. As much as I love her, she is not coordinated when it comes to dancing, and she still managed to pass of quite a few of the moves!
This would be a great game for a workout, or just for family fun.

Here's some official info on the game:

Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked is a full-body motion-based dance experience on Kinect for Xbox 360 and Wii™ that is fun for all ages. Players can choose to dance to multiple routines as their favorite ‘Munk (Alvin, Simon, and Theodore) or Chipette (Brittany, Eleanor, and Jeanette), while earning more points if they can dance on the beat. In addition, players who fill their “Munk Power” meter are then able to perform ultra-cool dance moves that electrify the crowd.

“A terrific soundtrack and dynamic play mechanic puts players right on stage with The Chipmunks and The Chipettes in an experience that continues the storyline of the upcoming blockbuster movie,” said Jesse Sutton, CEO, Majesco Entertainment. “Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked delivers a fun and engaging full-featured experience that is perfect for the entire family to enjoy.”

The game is based on the forthcoming Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwreckedmovie in theaters December 16th, which finds the trio vacationing aboard a luxury cruise liner until they become ‘chipwrecked’ on a remote island. The Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked video game continues the story with an around-the-world journey that has the ‘Munks visiting six tropical locations inspired by the movie. While dancing as the playable Chipmunks or The Chipettes, players perform more than 50 different dance moves to excite the crowd while rocking out to 30 of the greatest Chipmunk tunes that all generations can enjoy together.

“The music of Alvin and the Chipmunks has always been a great way for families to come together, and a huge high note for the blockbuster film franchise,” said Jeffrey Godsick, President of Fox Consumer Products. “Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked is the perfect vehicle for fans to become immersed in the energetic, musical world of The Chipmunks leading up to the film’s release next month.”

Full Music Track List Includes:

All Day and All of the Night

All Star

Beat It

Bring It On

California Dreamin’

Crocodile Rock

Hit Me With Your Best Shot

I Fought The Law

It’s Tricky

Just Like Heaven

Karma Chameleon

Kids In America

La Bamba

Life Is A Highway

Love Shack (w/ The Chipettes)

Oh Pretty Woman

Only Want to Be With You

Play That Funky Music Chipmunk

Shake Your Groove Thing

Stayin’ Alive

Surfin’ Safari

The Chipmunk Song

Turn the Beat Around (w/ The Chipettes)

Video Killed the Radio Star

Walkin’ On The Sun

We’re the Chipmunks (Deetown Remix)

Whip It

Witch Doctor

You Really Got Me

You Spin Me ‘Round

Developed by Behaviour Interactive, Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked is rated E10+ and now available on Kinect for Xbox 360 for a suggested retail price of $39.99, and on Wii™ and Nintendo DS™ for a suggested retail price of $29.99.

Back to work!

2011-12-29T10:47:00.000-08:00

Well after a nice holiday break it's time to get back to work!! I've got some reviews to post, and heaven knows there's a list of things to do around the house- between cleaning and projects!

We're down to the final 6 weeks of this pregnancy!!! Woo hoo!! It'll be so exciting to not only have another girl join our family, but for me to have my health and energy back! It's been a long pregnancy and feels like the person I was and all the things I used to do on a regular basis is so far away. So we all can't wait to get back into the swing of things and have life back to normal (or as normal as it can get with a newborn!).

Thanks for sticking with my blog- through thick and thin posts, and healthy and sick ones too! I'm excited for this new year to bring lots more opportunities for projects, reviews of new items, trips, recipes, and much more!

If you have any suggestions, or things you would like to see on here, please feel free to email me: atozformomslikeme@gmail.com

Happy 2012 soon!!

NEW- Follow by email!

2011-12-11T18:10:00.000-08:00

Just added to the site- Follow by email option!
On the right hand side of this page under our followers you now have the option to follow by email as well.
Submit your email address to be notified of new posts.

Since this is a new feature- anyone that follows by email gets one extra entry for the Applebee's $25 gift card giveaway!

Thanks for following! Love to hear your feedback- atozformomslikeme@gmail.com

Applebee's Gift card giveaway!

2011-12-10T08:58:00.000-08:00

We were offered another opportunity to do a Applebee's review & giveaway!

So yesterday the hubby and I headed off to Applebee's for a lunch date. As always, the food was great! I was really impressed to see their "all you can eat" soup and salad specials. It's a great way to try a couple of their great soups and salads. My husband's favorite was the Oriental Chicken salad, and of course the Chili.
I tried a side of bacon & cheese mashed potatoes and oh my goodness!!!! They were AWESOME! I'm definitely ordering them again!

Applebee's currently has a great holiday special- Buy a $50 gift card and get a $10 gift card free!!
Just in time for Christmas shopping & gifts!

Here's some official info:
Applebee's today announced the return of a FREE $10 Bonus Card for the 2011 gift-giving season. With the purchase of every $50 in Applebee's Gift Cards, in-restaurant guests receive a $10 Bonus Card -- a 20 percent value. Applebee's Bonus Cards are available only in participating Applebee's restaurants for a limited time.

Expert sources predict a robust season for Gift Cards. Gift cards continue to be one of the most popular holiday gifts with 62 percent of people saying they plan to buy a gift card this holiday season, according to a recent Consumer Reports Holiday Shopping Poll. Additionally, 44 percent of respondents feel that getting a good deal is more important than it was last year. Applebee's was recently named tops for overall value in an annual consumer restaurant chain survey conducted by Market Force Information.

"Giving Applebee's Gift Cards is a sure hit because of their value and the experience they create for family and friends," said Bridget Moen, director, gift cards, Applebee's Services, Inc. "You can treat your friends and family to a memorable meal in the neighborhood and pass along, or keep, the bonus card."

Applebee's Gift Cards are available in a variety of different styles and themes, including patriotic, holiday, sports and Girls' Night Out. Applebee's Gift Cards are accepted at nearly 1,800 U.S. locations, have no expiration dates, no hidden fees (such as inactivity charges) and offer an easy way to check card balances online.

Bonus Cards will be available at participating Applebee's through Dec. 31, 2011 and are redeemable through Feb. 29, 2012.

For more info visit: your local applebee's or http://www.applebees.com/
Just for my readers-
Applebee's has graciously offered to give one of my readers a $25 digital gift card!!

1 comment per entry. Giveaway will end 12/15/11. Winner will be notified by email and announced on our facebook.

How to enter:

1 comment each-
*Follow this blog
*Tell us your favorite thing to order at Applebee's
*Like us on Facebook

2 comments each-
*Share our blog link on facebook
*Comment & link our facebook on your status

Good Luck!

Crockpot Mushroom Chicken

2011-12-05T18:56:00.000-08:00

I was feeling creative (and somewhat lazy) when it came to planning dinner tonight, so I chose to throw a few random things in the crock pot and see how they turned out. WINNER! My family LOVED it! So here's what I combined:

In a crockpot put:
chicken (I did raw frozen tenders)
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can mushrooms

Cook on high for 3 hours then add:
8 oz cream cheese
1/3 c. shredded cheese (I used colby-jack)
1 t. garlic powder
1 t. onion salt

Cook for another 30 minutes or until ingredients are mixed well and chicken is cooked fully.

Serve over rice!

Pillow Pets DS game

2011-11-30T10:50:00.000-08:00

We recently reviewed the new Pillow Pets game. If your kids have or like the pillow pets they'll love this game that brings them to life!
The basic run down of the game is this: you go to each level to rescue a pet from their sleep, sometimes a level will have a pet that needs you to help them find something as well. After you wake up the pet and find the key at the end of the level you will sometimes get dress up accessories such as a hat, glasses etc.

While you are looking for the pet to rescue on each level there are stars, flowers, and other things for you to collect. There is also some really cute things kids will love such as a magic hat that makes you transport to another hat in that level. There is also a magic wand that makes your pet grow bigger to complete some tasks in the level.

In the play room (where you can choose which pillow pet you've rescued and want to play with) you can dress your pet up, and go to the rooms to rescue more pets.

I would recommend this game to children ages 3-7. Although some reading is necessary, I think with younger children once they know how to play they will enjoy it and not need the reading instructions. Originally I thought this was more of a girl game, however after playing it I think it is pretty gender neutral and would be enjoyed by boys just as much.

Official information:

Based on the beloved children’s line of plush pillows from CJ Products that easily transform into snuggly companions, the Pillow Pets™ game for Nintendo DS invites you to jump, fly, buzz and explore Dreamland, the imaginative world where the Pillow Pets™ characters thrive. Get to know your charming pet’s personality as you customize him or her with hats, glasses and more! When your favorite pal goes missing you must set out on a journey to bring your lost pet home safely. But don’t fret! Along the way you’ll meet cuddly friends and uncover tokens and rewards that will make for an unforgettable experience! Whether playing alone or side by side with friends, the Pillow Pets™ game for Nintendo DS creates a nurturing and fantasy-filled adventure that can be enjoyed by boys and girls of all ages.

Additional Pillow Pets™ In-Game Features:

Collectibles:Meet and collect up to 16 well-known Pillow Pets™ characters including farm critters and jungle animals!

Beautiful Lands to Explore: Venture into magical lands including Fantasy Woods, Rainbow Valley and Slumber Land Castle!

Customization:Accessorize your Pillow Pets™ from head to toe! Up to 40 accessories to unlock from hats, glasses and more!

Rewards: Gather tokens, unlock bonuses and garner prizes in each level!

Custom Lamp Shades

2011-11-29T20:02:00.000-08:00

So I got 2 buffet lamps recently and the red lamp shades didn't match our purple, black and white bedroom. So I first wrapped silver/white ribbon around the shade in one direction tightly, then I wrapped the purple ribbon around the other direction leaving spaces to create a striped look that matches our bedspread and curtains. This is what the end result was- I love it!!

The ribbon gave it a cool texture- I was going to add beads to them, but it's not necessary now.
Here is the inside of the lamp shade.

Holiday Sales

2011-11-22T07:48:00.000-08:00

Here is some of the Tupperware specials ending soon! These items are not normally available for purchase at all, so to be able to get them now on sale is a double treat!
PLUS!
I'm placing an order on Wed 11/23, so anyone who orders through me by then gets 10% off their entire order! It's a perfect time to get some cute Christmas gifts!!
There's even more sales on other items on the website- www.mytupperware.com/jodeemason Everything on the website can be added to your order, with the exception of the "online only" items (if you want any of those items you have to place your order online and I can't give the discount for online orders)
Get shopping!!

Happy Thanksgiving soon!

Moxie Girls Review & Giveaway

2011-11-21T18:55:00.000-08:00

If you have a little girl to shop for this Christmas, check out this adorable Moxie Girls Nintendo DS Game, Doll, and purse giveaway!!

This new DS game is a fun game for I would say girls ages 6-10.

"Official information":

Moxie Girlzfor Nintendo DS provides hours of fun with thousands of art options and creations awaiting your personal touch! Customize your Moxie Girlz character and express your creativity in Fashion Play mode with dozens of hair styles, accessories and more. Share your deepest secrets and get lost in Journal and Diary Modes, or have fun with friends as you take the Moxie Girlz quizzes to find out which of the Moxie Girlz you and your friends resemble the most. Whether playing alone or with others, Moxie Girlz provides an interactive and encouraging environment where young girls can be whatever they want to be. Be true! Be you!

Additional Moxie Girlz video game features:

Customization:Pick which Moxie Girlz character you want to be or upload pictures of yourself.

Variety of Modes: Art Play, Fashion Play, Games and more!

Personality Quizzes:Discover the Moxie Girlz character that resembles you!

Picture Fun: Use DSi functionality for picture taking and puzzle games - mix and match!

Positive Message:All modes and gameplay focus on the positive Moxie Girlz message- Be true! Be you!

Developed by 1st Playable, Moxie Girlz for Nintendo DS is rated “E” for Everyone by the ESRB. For additional information about GameMill’s line of products, please visit: http://www.game-mill.com/.

Entries will be accepted until 11/26/11, winner will be chosen on 11/27/11
To Enter to win the above pictured game & products:

To enter comment below as follows (one entry per comment) be sure to leave your email so I can notify you if you win!

Winner will be notified by email and have 24 hours to respond with requested information.
1 comment for each if:

-you have a little girl ages 6-10
-you follow this blog

-you "like" our facebook

-you follow our twitter (twitter name: atozformoms)

2 comments for each if:

-you link/share this page on your facebook

-you link/share this page on your blog

Good Luck!

Homemade Oreos

2011-11-21T18:38:00.000-08:00

When you're craving a soft chocolate sweet- these are great!

Mix together:
2 boxes- devils food cake mix
4 eggs
1 c. applesauce (I always substitute applesauce for oil, it's healthier and makes them softer too!)

once the batter is smooth, spoon out even sized cookies on a greased cookie sheet. I use an ice cream scoop to keep them all as close to the same size as possible.
Bake at 350 for 15 mins. You want them to be set up- but don't overcook them or they'll be hard cookies!

Let cool, then frost 2 cookies together.

Cream Cheese Frosting:
1 cube butter
8 oz cream cheese
1/2 bag of powdered sugar
1/4 c. milk
1 t. vanilla
beat together until smooth.

*Since these are a sandwich cookie make sure you make an even amount of cookies! Also, it will only make half as much as you think it will because each cookie uses 2*

Britax Baby Carrier Review & Giveaway

2011-11-18T08:08:00.000-08:00

In reviewing the Britax baby carrier I got to see first hand the quality and comfort of the Britax brand!
Some parents can't live without a baby carrier- or a "baby backpack" as I describe it to my younger kids. Perfect for the fussy baby, or those that always want to be held, but allows the parent to have both hands free while still holding their precious one.

My favorite features of this Britax baby carrier are:
super soft & washable bib like cover (great for babies who might have crackers or finger foods while in the carrier)
all the straps are padded for comfort for both parent and child
reversible- allowing the child to be carried facing the parent, or facing outwards

Neutral color- works for boys or girls, moms or dads, and easily matches anything. I think this is a very important detail overlooked by a lot of products that would be used by both mom & dad. My husband is not fond of having to tote around pink girly girl items, I can't imagine him ever putting on a pink baby carrier- at least not in public! The one I reviewed was black & grey, personally I prefer it's colors to the tan one pictured above- but they both are neutral and work nicely.

Britax has generously offered to give one of my followers a free baby carrier! Valued at aprox $130!
Rules:
Drawing entries will be accepted until 11/30/11 and a winner will be posted on our facebook & emailed on 12/1/11

To enter comment below as follows (one entry per comment) be sure to leave your email so I can notify you if you win!

1 comment for each if:
-you have kids or are expecting!
-you follow this blog
-you "like" our facebook
-you follow our twitter
-you "like" Britax's facebook page
-you follow Britax on twitter

2 comments for each if:
-you link/share this page on your facebook
-you link/share this page on your blog

Good luck!!

Pinkalicious DS game

2011-11-11T15:03:00.000-08:00

I had the chance to review a new Nintendo DS game- Pinkalicious.

This is a girly girl game! It's based on the best selling book series.

Basically, you design your own character- choosing skin, hair, clothes, and colors etc. And you name it as well. I typed in my name "JoDee" and it called me "JoDeelicious" which I thought was cute!

Once your player is created you go on a series of tasks arranging parties or get togethers. You design the invitation, choose what neighborhood people you're going to invite, how you're going to decorate the party, food to be served etc.

It's a great outlet that lets girls be creative and arrange and color or make things the way they want. As an adult I found the game a little repetitive, so I would say it's a game perfect for girls ages 6-10. There is reading required.

The game also comes with a cute pink stylus and little pouch shaped cleaner.

Here's some "official" information on the game:

Pinkalicious loves her friends, family, and fun ... and what better way to combine them than a pinktastic
party! Players express their ‘licious style by designing parties, choosing invitations and decorations,
creating cupcakes and other delicacies, and ultimately staging a party experience for Pinkalicious and
her friends. With each party, yet more decorations, foods, and activities are unlocked, offering an endless set of combinations for imaginative fans.

Set in Pinkalicious’ village, the player prepares by visiting different shops and homes, to provide a
sense of place. Whether delivering invitations or helping the baker decorate cupcakes, players have
a multitude of exciting party customization options. As new party themes and activities are unlocked players are further invited to explore and share in the pinktacular world of Pinkalicious!
Key Features:

Creative and Aesthetic-based Gameplay –

Quick, easy-to-access activities off a central hub allow a variety of fun party- related activities and games that cater to girls’ creative game play

Dress-Up Play – Create and dress up characters to attend your party based on real friends, or imaginary ones. Similar to Pocket God, the names float above the characters while in the party, lending a social play aspect to the player’s endeavors

Variety of Party Themes –

Whether an old fashioned birthday party, Luau, or ... Pinkalicious party (!), players pick the theme and settings that suits their mood.
Endless Customization – Choose a setting, decorate with stickers, create treats, and enjoy games to play with your guests.

Use for Real-Life Party Planning –Your guest list, themes, decorations, and activities can be used to stage parties, whether an imaginary friend tea-party or a real birthday party!

Unlockable Decorations and Activities – Discover new gameplay as you gain more party creation experience.

Party Planner – A journal records the parties you’ve held.

Homemade Cheese Sticks

2011-11-11T11:51:00.000-08:00

We tried these last night and they were AMAZING!

You can use string cheese or do like I did and just cut up a block of mozzarella cheese into strips.

Bowl 1:
1/2 c. flour
2 T. corn starch

Bowl 2:
4 eggs- beaten
1/4 c. water

Bowl 3:
1 1/2 c. Italian seasoned bread crumbs
2 t. garlic powder
1 t. onion salt

take each strip or log of cheese and roll it into the bowls in order, then place into a pan of hot oil. Cook until golden (about 30 seconds).

We served them with marinara sauce for dipping.

One Pan Breakfast

2011-11-07T08:04:00.000-08:00

If you're like me and HATE making messes first thing in the morning, this is a recipe for you!

In a frying pan cook up 3-4 slices of bacon. You can cut it before or crumble it after- either way.
remove bacon and add hash browns to the bacon grease (no butter needed, or you can drain the grease and add butter)
Once hash browns are starting to brown up a little, add crumbled bacon to the hash browns.
Mix the two together a bit, then make little dips in the hash browns.
Crack an egg into each dip and cover the pan with a lid.
Cook until your egg is desired stage (hard or soft yolk).
Salt and pepper
That's it!

Dutch Oven Potatoes

2011-11-05T19:01:00.000-07:00

These can be made in a dutch oven, or like I did tonight- in a frying pan.
Cut up bacon, place in pan and cook slightly

Add 1/2 chopped onion

(no need to add oil because the bacon provides it!)
cook for a few minutes together then add:
sliced potatoes
Salt and pepper as desired
Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are cooked through.
Easy and Delicious!

FREE Cookbook!

2011-11-03T17:55:00.000-07:00

I just got an email from a Chef offering to give away a free copy of his new cookbook to my readers!
I checked out the cookbook and some of the recipes and it looks pretty cool-

"The recipes are super family-friendly, healthy, have less than 10 ingredients, and take less than 30 minutes to prepare."

*Let's get the family back to the dinner table and out of the fast food joints!*

This cook book will retail for $27 when it officially comes out!

To get a copy free now go to:
http://www.dinnerevolution.com/cookbook/nerfree.html

Crock pot Stroganoff

2011-10-31T15:13:00.000-07:00

This was another amazing recipe idea I got from allrecipes.com
It's super easy, fairly cheap, and creates minimal dishes! Plus it'd be a great one to throw together with food storage ingredients.

In your crock pot put:
raw stew meat (1#)
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 T dried onions
1-2 T Worcestershire
cook on high for 2 hours, or low for 4

You can either add in uncooked noodles and about 3/4 c water and let the noodles cook in the sauce, or boil noodles in a separate pan and add once cooked.
Add a block (8oz) cream cheese to sauce about 1/2 hour before serving

I used 3 color or veggie noodles this time, but you can use any kind of noodle you like!

Camping Mama

2011-09-24T12:24:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago I had the opportunity to preview a new ds game called "Camping Mama". We had so much fun with it the day it came I had a hard time putting it down!

Even though the game is intended for kids ages 10 and up (because reading and story are involved) my 4 year old enjoyed playing it!
The game has different objects and things to do or get- and throughout each level there are mini games you play. I still don't think I've seen all the mini games there are so many different ones! They are all a lot of fun too.

Camping Mama was available for purchase as of Sept 13th for $29.99

Here is some more information directly from the company about the game:

Set off on an island camping adventure with Mama, Papa and their two children in Camping Mama: Outdoor Adventures! Navigate the wilderness, live off the land and master your survival skills to thrive in the great outdoors. From adventurous activities like rock climbing and spelunking to necessities like foraging for food and cooking your meal, you’ll explore the island and interact with the wildlife as you create lasting memories with Mama and her family.

Features

• Based on the best-selling Cooking Mama franchise that has sold more than 8 and a half million units in North America alone! Mama now has 8 skus on the shelf and has expanded across platforms from DS to Wii, iPhone and Facebook since the series’ first 2006 introduction.

• Explore the camp site and island as you play a mix of stylus-based cooking, crafting, treasure hunting, and action mini-games in the signature Mama format.

• Play through 38 levels with 100 brand new mini games as Mama’s son or daughter with either Mama or Papa on hand to provide guidance.

• Participate in activities including rock climbing, swinging on jungle vines, spelunking, rowing a boat, tree climbing, and more.

• Use items in mini-games to survive in the woods - craft a fishing pole to fish, sharpen knives and axes with stones you’ve collected, make a fire to cook shellfish you’ve caught, cook the eggs collected from captured chickens, set up your tent to sleep in, construct a net to catch butterflies, and much more!

• Experience nature in a variety of settings, such as the Forest, Mountains, and Seas in day, night, snow, and more!

• Find treasure that you can use in further adventures, or even to decorate your camp.

• Earn the highest achievement level by creating the rarest and strongest tools –

• Collect insects, fish, treasure, and more, then survey your collection in your scrap book. Aim to find everything!

• Shake trees and move rocks to access hard to reach areas that could be filled with treasure or more activities.

• Perfect mini-games you’ve unlocked in Challenge Mode

Be sure to check them out at: www.cookingmamaUS.com

Just when we thought we couldn't get any more impressed by this game and company- low and behold they surprise us with a package in the mail full of some promotional products for the game! Our box included: a backpack, the official ds game, flashlight, binoculars, lady bug camping spork, smores kit, first aid kit,and canteen!

If you have young kids with DS game units I highly recommend this game- it's fun, educational, and not one they'll finish and do everything there is to do with the game quickly. It's defiantly a value for the amount of entertainment it provides!

Sex in a Pan (aka 5 layered dessert)

2011-09-19T12:21:00.000-07:00

This is an amazing dessert- and super quick and easy to make as well. It's been known as "Better than sex", "Sex in a pan" or if those names make you blush you can call it "5 layered dessert" like my mom does :)

Layer 1:
1 cube butter- melted
1 c. flour
1 c. walnuts
mix together, press into baking pan and bake at 350 for 10 mins. Let cool.

Layer 2:
8 oz cream cheese
1 c. cool whip
1 c. powdered sugar
mix until smooth, spread over crust. (I do it when the crust is still warm so it will spread easier)

Layer 3:
1 large box instant vanilla pudding
2 c. milk
mix together and pour over layer 2.
(for this layer, this time I substituted banana cream pudding and sliced fresh bananas on top of it- it turned out great!)

Layer 4:
1 large box instant chocolate pudding
1 1/2 c. milk
mix and pour over layer 3.

Layer 5:
spread cool whip on top and sprinkle shredded chocolate on top if you want.

*hint* For the pudding layers I pour them in before the pudding is fully set up- it will be runny but will go on more evenly and set up after you pour it on.