The Life of Rylie...and Bryce too!

Have You Tried The New Salads At Chick-fil-A? We Did!

2013-06-19T22:00:00.000-04:00

Disclosure: All opinions are my own. I hosted a salad tasting party for my friends through a campaign with Mom It Forward, and all of the delicious food was provided at no cost.

If you are a regular reader here, then you know that my family loves Chick-fil-A! We meet friends every Tuesday for "Chick-fil-A Tuesday", and we've been doing so for a couple of years now. The food is great, the service is exceptional, and it is the one night each week that I know my kids will eat their dinner without a fuss!

When I was given the opportunity to host a salad tasting party for several of my mom friends, I jumped at the chance. Yes, I ate at Chick-fil-A two times that week, but that was fine by me! We were invited to come in and try out the new Chick-fil-A salads and learn more about them.

When my friends and I arrived at Chick-fil-A, we were greeted by Anna, who was our hostess for the evening. She had a nice table set up in the middle of the restaurant for us, which was decorated with flowers and cute little Chick-fil-A cows.

Anna explained to us that they had made up small, individual portions of the three new salads, and she would bring them out one by one. She had already placed the three new salad dressings on the table, and told us she would tell us the best pairing for each salad as she brought them out.

The first salad Anna brought out for us to try was the Grilled Market Salad. With two servings of vegetables and one serving of fruit, this salad is rich in antioxidants, and it is also gluten free (without any condiments). The Grilled Market Salad contains sliced grilled chicken, chopped romaine lettuce & baby greens, red cabbage, carrots, fresh apples, strawberries, blueberries and crumbled blue cheese. This salad also comes with packages of roasted nut blend and harvest nut granola, and the suggested dressing is the Zesty Apple Cider Vinaigrette.

Since I have a child with a nut allergy, I absolutely love that the nuts come in a separate package. With the fruit on this salad, this might be something Rylie would actually eat, and it is great that she can have it without the nuts. It is also great for those who may be watching their calories. Before you add those two packages, this salad is only at 180 calories, and some may skip the extras to keep the calorie count lower. Of course that's not what I did!

I wasn't too sure about this salad at first because I'm not a fan of blue cheese, but I have to admit, it was pretty awesome. The blue cheese was not overpowering, and it actually blended well with all of the other flavors in the salad. Not only is this salad healthy, it tastes great too!

Next up was the Asian Salad. This salad contains sliced, hot nuggets, chopped romaine lettuce & baby greens, red cabbage, carrots, and mandarin orange segments. Served on the side are packages of honey-Thai almonds and Chinese garlic & ginger wontons, and the suggested dressing is the Honey Sesame.

The Asian Salad is absolutely delicious! The mandarin oranges and the ginger in the dressing complement each other so well, and each bite is a perfect combination of Asian flavors.

Ron, one of the store managers, stopped by our table to see if we were enjoying the salads, and he told us that he liked the Asian Salad with spicy chicken. We asked him if you can have your salads customized when you order, and he said that even though the salads are prepared throughout the day so that they are ready when you order them, you can definitely order these salads any way you like. You may just have to wait a few minutes while they make it up for you. You can have them omit ingredients you don't like and you can get different types of chicken. That is the kind of Chick-fil-A service I have come to expect, which you certainly don't get at other fast food restaurants!

The last salad we tried was my favorite, the Cobb Salad. This delicious salad contains sliced, hot nuggets, chopped romaine lettuce & baby greens, shredded red cabbage & carrots, roasted corn kernels, crumbled bacon, hard-boiled egg, shredded Monterey jack & cheddar cheeses and grape tomatoes. The "extra" that is served in a separate package is charred tomato & crispy red bell peppers. Now, I don't like tomatoes or peppers, but let me tell you, those veggies must go through some kind of magical transformation, because I think they make the salad! The suggested dressing for this salad is the Avocado Lime Ranch. Yum, yum, yum.

When I was first approached about hosting this tasting party, I kept hearing the words "new salads". I thought to myself "they just got new salads, are they replacing them again?" Well it turns out that my area was a test market for these salads, and we got them ahead of everyone else. I had not yet tried the Grilled Market Salad or the Asian Salad before this event, but I had eaten the Cobb Salad several times, and I absolutely love it! It even replaced my beloved Spicy Chicken Sandwich that I usually ordered on Tuesday nights.

A couple of my friends who came to the event had never had the salads before that night. They were honestly surprised at how great they tasted. We all really enjoyed all of the salads, and I think the only somewhat-negative comment of the whole night was that someone didn't like one of the new dressings and preferred Ranch instead.

I want to thank my friends who came out to our Chick-fil-A salad tasting party...(clockwise from the front left to the front right) Jenn, Lara (blogger at My Inner Red Head and a MOM Reviews), Nery, Dorothy, me, and Amy (blogger at Who Said Nothing in Life is Free? and Orlando Daily Deals). It was such a fun night!

We ended the party with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies, because, after all, I can't leave Chick-fil-A without having one. I also had to pick up a salad for Brian, since the new salads are also his favorite menu items, and my kids were thrilled when I came home with two Chick-fil-A cows!

If you have a Chick-fil-A in your area and haven't tried these new salads yet, you simply MUST. They are absolutely delicious, and I haven't had one that wasn't. The lettuce is always crispy and the chicken is always tasty. And like every other meal I have had at Chick-fil-A, these salads are served with a smile!

Have you tried the new Chick-fil-A salads yet? If so, which is your favorite? If not, which one will you try first?

Wordless Wednesday: Tree Frog

2013-06-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

Celebrate Summer With Bomb Pop And Publix {Review & Giveaway}

2013-06-17T23:00:00.000-04:00

Disclosure: I am working with Bomb Pop and Publix to share summer entertaining ideas using the information and products they provided me. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.

Even though summer isn't technically here it, it has been in full swing here in sunny Florida for weeks now. It is HOT HOT HOT here, and the lazy days of keeping cool in the pool have begun.

We are always outside during the summer, which means that a lot of our cooking is done outside. Whether we're having people over for a pool party, or just cooking up a quick Saturday dinner, our grill gets used all the time during the summer months. After the burgers and hot dogs have been eaten, there's nothing more refreshing than a cool treat on a hot day!

My whole family loves the Original Bomb Pop! Not only do Rylie and Bryce like the red, white and blue colors of this All-American favorite, they also love having three different flavors in one yummy frozen treat. Since we received our two boxes of Bomb Pops, every time they are out in the pool, they immediately ask for one.

Now that our pool is finally cleaned up and in working order, it is time for the pool parties to start! We love to have friends over on the weekends to play, swim and barbecue. The kids have a great time swimming in the pool and playing on the swing set, and the adults always enjoy the great conversation between friends.

If you have a pool and host pool parties for the kids, here are a few tips:

Have one adult positioned near the edge of the pool who constantly scans the pool. While most parents are watching out for their own kids, sometimes people get caught up in conversation, cooking, or taking care of another kid, and look away. It takes only seconds for a child to get into trouble in the water, and someone needs to be watching the pool at all times. Rotate this "pool scanner" position through the adults at the party so everyone has a chance to take part in the party.
Make the kids take breaks from the pool. Swimming is hard work for little ones, and they don't realize how tired they are getting until it's too late. Have them get out of the pool and have a snack, play a game in the yard like horseshoes or water balloon toss, or just let them relax on a lounge chair for a few minutes. This is also a great time to let the kids enjoy a cool treat like Bomb Pops.
Always have plenty of extra beach towels on hand. Most people will bring a towel to a pool party, but if the kids are getting in and out of the pool several times (you know, for the constant potty breaks), those towels will get so wet that they will become impossible to dry off with. Keep a stack of towels out by the pool in case any of your guests need a fresh one.

Whether you are hosting outdoor parties, or attending them, the biggest tip to remember is to relax and have fun.

Cheers to a great summer!

Did you know that June 27th is National Bomb Pop Day? Whether you like the original Bomb Pops or one of the many other flavors available, make sure you pick up some of these delicious frozen treats and celebrate!

Do you host summer parties? What are your tips for entertaining during the summer?

~*~Giveaway~*~

~*~Bomb Pop/Publix Prize Pack~*~

Prize pack includes: 2 Bomb Pop packages (in the form of coupons), Patriotic Paper Lanterns, Red Striped Popcorn Boxes, Red Paper Straws and a $25 Publix Gift Card.

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~~Winners!!!~~ Energizer, Caillou

2013-06-17T21:22:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to last week's winners!

Energizer Flameless Wax Candle

Caillou Bathtime With You Activity Set

For more chances to win cool stuff, check out our current giveaways in the sidebar!

Father's Day Fun In The Sun

2013-06-16T20:44:00.001-04:00

Happy Father's Day to all of the dads out there! I hope you all had a great day!

We had big plans to make chocolate chip pancakes for Brian this morning and hang out in the pool, but late last night we decided to meet our good friends at Aquatica for some fun in the sun. The kids had "donuts with Dad" for breakfast this morning, since they missed having it at school like they have for the last few years, and then we headed out to the water park a little before noon.

We really had a great day playing around in the different areas for the kids. It was hot and sunny most of the day, so hitting the water at the bottom of the slides was absolutely refreshing!

Rylie had fun playing with the Hogan girls, especially Payten, who she doesn't get to see as much as she would like. Those two were trying to talk us into a sleepover for tonight, but you know, us parents have to work tomorrow.

We dropped the kids off at my mom's after we closed down the park so that Daddy could get some R&R on Father's Day, and so Rylie and Bryce could sleep in tomorrow morning. I took the kids to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure on Friday, and after going to two theme parks in one weekend, we're all beat!

Father's Day has been so bittersweet for me these past three years. I love celebrating the day with my husband, who is the most amazing dad ever, but I miss my Dad, who was the best father I could have ever asked for. Days like this are hard, and I would give anything to be able to give my dad a big Father's Day hug and tell him how much I love him. So for all of you who are still lucky to have your dad here with you, give him an extra hug, call him twice today, whatever you need to do to make sure he knows how much you love and appreciate him.

Friday Ramblings & Five Question Friday - June 14th

2013-06-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

It's Friday! It's Friday!

Today is my Friday off and it is probably the only day I won't be working this weekend...and that is only because my mom has some stuff to do this morning and can't keep the kids. Otherwise, I'm sure I would be at work. It's pretty nuts there lately, and I have been working way more than I used to. We're still closing the month of May and I have financials to get out, and on top of that, our budget for next year is due at the end of this month. Fun times.

The last couple of weeks have been kind of a blur. Rylie and Bryce stay with my mom during the day, and Bryce has been spending most nights over there too. I don't mind as long as I get to see him for dinner, but when I go a couple of days without seeing him at all, I want my little man to come home.

While Bryce was at my mom's house, Rylie and the dogs had taken up residence in his bed. I figured that when he decided to come back home that they would have a rude awakening. On Wednesday night Bryce stayed home and Rylie went to my mom's, and when he hopped in his bed, guess who else hopped in there with him?

Yep! Apparently Lucy and Ernie think that is their bed now.

The transition from one dog to two has been wonderful! Ernie is such a sweet, fun dog, and he has done so well since day 1. Lucy is doing much better, too, now that she has a friend. Well, except for when she backed out of her collar Tuesday morning and Brian had to chase her down through the wet grass.

Since I am off today and the kids are home, I decided to get some use out of our annual passes and take them to Universal Studios. Yes, by myself. Please pray for me. My mom and the kids missed Tuesday morning crafts at Chick-fil-A, and Rylie asked if we could go for crafts today, so we'll be having breakfast and craft time at Chick-fil-A first. Then we're off for a fun-filled day of rides!

It looks like I'll be working most of the weekend while the rest of my family is playing in the pool and having fun. Boo! Sometimes it sucks being an adult with responsibilities.

What are you up to this weekend? I hope it's great!

1. What do you appreciate most about your children's Dad?

That he is a hands on dad. Since the day Rylie was born he has changed diapers, given baths, helped them go potty, cooked meals, read stories, taken them to birthday parties, etc. He does just as much (if not more) with the kids as I do.

I can't stand to hear women talk about how their husband is "babysitting" the kids, how they have to leave all of these instructions for the two hours they will be away, and how nervous they are. What?!?!?! I would never worry about leaving my kids with their father. I've been gone for a week at a time and everything is just fine.

2. Do you always wear your seat belt?

Absolutely!

3. Do you dream and do you remember them?

Yes and yes. Well, sometimes I remember them. I dream so vividly that when I wake up, I often think my dream really happened.

4. What is one thing you swore you'd never let your kids do before having them, that you have now changed your ways about?

I don't remember ever saying that I would never let my kids do something, but when I waited tables, I did say that I would never take my kids to restaurants until they were older. I HATED waiting on tables with kids! The parents always wanted the kids' food rushed out, and they always asked for crackers, which made a huge mess that I would have to clean up.

Obviously we take our kids to restaurants all the time. And I have asked for crackers. However, I do tip well, especially if my kids make a huge mess.

5. If you could be granted one wish, what would it be?

I could be all big hearted and say world peace, or that I want my kids to live long, healthy lives. Which I do, obviously. But if I rubbed a lamp and the genie inside only had one wish left, I would wish that I would win the lottery. A big one, too, like the $600M Powerball! I would love to have enough money so Brian and I would never have to work again. People say that money doesn't buy happiness, but not having to work and being able to spend more time with my kids definitely wouldn't make me sad. And I'm sure I'd be pretty damn happy sitting on some tropical island with a fruity drink in my hand, too.

Kids Travel In Style With The Lassig Trolley Suitcase {Review & Giveaway}

2013-06-12T23:00:00.000-04:00

Disclosure: All opinions are my own. Items for review and/or giveaway were provided by sponsor or representing PR agency at no cost.

Ever since we were transferred out of state 6 years ago, we travel a lot back to Florida to visit our families. Those visits have become more frequent since we had kids, and it seems we always have something we are headed back for. Kennedy isn't even 8 months yet and she's already been on 6 flights!

A lot of time my husband can't join us for the entire time we head there, so I am usually flying solo with both girls (and our chihuahua!). It isn't pretty, but Haley is a good helper and I have figured out how to just go with the flow. Kennedy is actually at that age where you have to entertain her the entire flight and feed her snacks for 2 hours, but she is usually pretty good too!

Since we have flown so many times, I consider myself an "expert" at traveling with kids. I have a fully stocked diaper bag, and Haley has a little backpack she takes with coloring books and her DVD player. The personal DVD player usually gets a little heavy for her to carry, so she usually hands over her back pack for me to carry shortly after arriving at the airport. That means I have our dog in a backpack on my back, as well as carrying a diaper bag and Haley's small bag. Once I gate-check the stroller, I add Kennedy to my arms, and let's just say I breathe a huge sigh of relief when we make it to our seats.

When I received the email about the new Lassig diaper bags, I loved the look and style of them, but since Kennedy is almost 18 months, I'm not really in the market for a diaper bag at this time. I asked if I could review the Lassig Trolley Suitcase since I figured with all of our travel, it would come in handy. I didn't notice the dimensions of the Trolley before I got them, but when they arrived, I fell in love with the size of this suitcase for kids! It is smaller than your traditional "business" carry-on, which makes it PERFECT for children.

We knew we would be house-hunting at the beginning of June, and I knew it would be great for Haley to put all of her plane activities in. It is also so lightweight, so it is easy for her to carry. In fact, it is light enough for Kennedy to wheel around. The day they arrived (I received the Trolley in 2 colors) the girls had a blast pretending they were at the "airport". It was so cute to watch Haley tell her little sister where they were going (usually Richmond, VA because that's where my husband travels to often) and walk through their pretend airport pulling their beloved suit cases.

What is nice about this company is that they design all of their products with adults and children in mind. They have durable products that are also functional, and eco-friendly too! I love all of the versatile bags they have available in a variety of cute styles! They are made with materials that are free of PVC, nickel, AZO dyes, cadmium and phthalates. I browsed the Lassig website and saw several bags I would love to have!

The Trolley I received came with a drawstring bag for laundry or shoes that coordinates with our bag. I LOVE that it came with a laundry bag since those plastic hotel bags are never big enough for all of our dirty laundry! It was a really convenient size/weight, and I actually grabbed it as I was walking out the door to Sea World one weekend to put all of our splash pad items in. It was perfect to have on the back of the stroller too!

When it was finally time to use her suit case "for real", Haley felt so important walking through the airport! She didn't want anyone to help her wheel it. I had intentions on snapping a few pics of her walking with it, but as I was schlepping 2 kids through 2 airports and 6 hours of traveling, it just didn't happen. I was able to snap a few as we were getting ready to leave though.

I had her stand next to both of them so that you could see how tall they are and that they are perfect for children to use on an airplane. I also think this would be ideal for a weekend getaway! It has a convenient side pouch that we used for a bottle of water on the flight.

I can't count how many people in the airport commented on what a cute suitcase that Haley had! She had no problem showing it off for everyone too! It was nice to be able to put several coloring books, crayons, her DVD player, 15 DVD's, and my large DLSR camera. It was nice to have those heavier items go in her bag that she could roll instead of on my shoulder in the diaper bag. Here are the features and specifications of the Lassig Trolley Suitcase:

Features

Large main compartment with securing strap, separated shoe and laundry bag and exterior zip pocket
Includes handle with two-stage height adjustable

Specifications

Measurements: 12 x 19 x 8
Material: 100% Polyester

You can order the Lassig Trolley Suitcase directly from Lassig for $82.00 and they have several designs available, all of them adorable! You will also find other great travel products for kids.

While you are on their website, be sure to browse a few other awesome products that they sell. One product that I love is the Tender Brief Bag, which is so fashionable, no one would be able to tell that you are carrying a diaper bag! It also has so many compartments and pouches, perfect for organizing all of your must-haves.

I also love their Cooler Backpack. It is perfect to pack a nice lunch for school-aged children. Haley would love to have her lunch bag as her back pack!

Which of the fabulous Lassig bags is your favorite?

~*~Giveaway~*~

~*~Lassig Trolley Suitcase~*~

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Wordless Wednesday: Underwater Battle

2013-06-12T07:00:00.000-04:00

Our Newest Addition - Meet Ernie

2013-06-11T08:00:00.000-04:00

Or Earnest, as I like to call him.

Just look at his face. He looks like an old man, doesn't he?

So you guys remember back in April when I put my husband on a plane out of the country and decided it was time to get another dog, right? We brought Lucy home with us and hoped that she would be the perfect dog for our family. Unfortunately, her transition didn't go as well as we had planned. She had horrible separation anxiety which resulted in destructive behavior.

Over the past few weeks, Lucy has been spending a lot of time at my mom's house while Brian and I are at work, and we noticed that when she was with my mom's dogs, she didn't seem to be as anxious. If my mom and the kids left for a little bit, Lucy just jumped up on the couch and took a nap. She didn't chew. She didn't pee in my mom's house. She didn't destroy anything. We decided that Lucy needed a friend.

I started looking around at the local pet rescue groups, and I found a beagle mix that I thought would be a good fit for our family, and for Lucy. I put in an application and asked to find out more about this dog. I really wanted to ensure that this dog would help the situation and not make it worse. Later that evening, I was contacted by one of the volunteers from Pet Rescue by Judy, and she didn't think that particular dog would be a good fit. She did, however, have a few others who she thought would be.

Early Sunday morning we all hopped in the car (Lucy included) and headed out to meet two dogs. When we arrived at the shelter, the "foster dad" was sitting outside with one of the dogs we were supposed to meet, along with Ernie. We spent some time with the dogs, and decided that neither of the dogs we went there to meet would be a perfect fit. One had a high prey drive and I was afraid she would eat my mom's dogs, and the other was just a little too young and active for us.

The whole time we were there, though, Rylie kept playing with little Ernie. Once I realized that the other two weren't going to work for us, I asked what his story was, and if he was available for adoption. I was surprised to find out that he was available, and wondered why the volunteer hadn't suggested Ernie when we first talked. It turns out that someone had already placed an application for Ernie, but withdrew it a few days ago because she was no longer able to care for another dog. A few minutes later, we all agreed that Ernie should come home with us, and after filling out the paperwork, we were on our way.

Ernie is a 6 year old Puggle, and he is the sweetest boy! He gets along well with Lucy, doesn't mind the kids at all, and will just roll over for belly rubs if you sit down next to him. When we got home, Lucy and Ernie chased each other around the yard for a long time, and spent most of the afternoon outside. At one point, he lifted his leg and peed on my curtains inside the house and I was thinking "OHMYGOD what have we done...again!?!?!" I yelled at him and put him outside, and he hasn't done it since. Smart boy!

Sunday night after the kids were in bed and everything was calm, Lucy and Ernie fell asleep together on the couch and I was serenaded by the sounds of the snoring chorus while I watched TV.

Just look at this cute little guy! Peaceful and happy in his new home...

Over the last few weeks we have been allowing Lucy to sleep at the bottom of our bed, but I decided that I didn't want two dogs in the bed, so we bought them both beds for our room. When we went to bed Sunday night, they each got in a bed, and slept peacefully all night long.

Other than the one pee incident, Ernie has been the perfect dog! He doesn't chew on the kids' toys, and seems to know which toys are for the dogs. He loves attention, but doesn't go crazy trying to get it. Lucy tries to play with him often, and if he isn't in the mood to play, he just looks at her like she's crazy and walks away. He isn't aggressive over food or toys, and seems happy to share. The best part of all of this is that Lucy seems much calmer. She hasn't been under my feet everywhere I go, doesn't seem worried about us leaving her, and hasn't peed in our house since we brought her new friend home. The dogs spent yesterday at my mom's house with the kids, and everyone did very well.

And Rylie? Well she just can't get enough of this dog! We thought that Lucy would love the kids by the way she crawled into their laps when we first met her, but we soon found out that she doesn't like their crazy antics, and usually just stays away from them. She has never been mean to them, but only wants to be around them when they are sitting quietly, which isn't often in our house. Ernie, on the other hand, will play tug of war with Rylie, or chase Bryce around the yard, and doesn't seem to mind their loud voices and the constant running around that they do.

Bryce went home with my mom last night, so Rylie slept in his bed and wanted Ernie to sleep with her. I put Ernie in there with her, and then Lucy wanted to be with them, too. Ahhhh, life is good.

I wasn't planning to let the dogs stay in there after Rylie went to sleep, but they came out on their own a few minutes later.

I'm so happy that our chance meeting led to this mutually beneficial relationship. Lucy now has a companion, the kids have a new friend, and Ernie has his forever home!

~~Winner!!!~~ Gymboree

2013-06-10T21:00:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to last week's winner!

$75 Gymboree Gift Card

For more chances to win cool stuff, check out our current giveaways in the sidebar!

VTech InnoTab 2S Wi-Fi Learning App Tablet {Review & Giveaway}

2013-06-08T12:00:00.000-04:00

Disclosure: All opinions are my own. The VTech product, information, and additional gift pack have been provided by VTech at no cost.

Haley's school, like most other schools in the country, is out for the summer. Since I stay at home, she only goes 2 days a week, but I love that she goes to have interaction with other kids. She was in daycare full-time until February of last year, and she loved going. It was important to us to put her in this year where she would have friends, and an added bonus of going to school was that she would continue learning. Obviously we do things at home, but I am not a teacher, and I love how schools find creative ways of teaching children basic things. Not only does she love school, but every day when I drop her off, she asks me if she can go to "extended day" which is an extra hour. That silly girl even gets disappointed when I come pick her up right at 2PM.

Now that summer is here, we are looking for extra things to do, and if I can incorporate learning too, that is just an added bonus. The InnoTab 2S Wi-Fi Learning App Tablet by VTech has so many ways to beat the "summer brain drain" that so many kids go through.

I was sent the VTech InnoTab 2S Wi-Fi Learning App Tablet, as well as 2 extra cartridges and batteries. We just came back from 8 days in Virginia, and this tablet was a lifesaver on the plane and hotel. We have another trip to Virginia at the end of the month, and then 3 weeks later, we go to Florida for a few weeks. I love knowing that this will keep Haley occupied during our trips!

About the VTech InnoTab 2S Wi-Fi Learning App Tablet

The InnoTab 2S Wi-Fi Learning App Tablet is one of the first children’s learning based tablets with Wi-Fi

The InnoTab 2S is a child’s own tablet that opens up a world of age-appropriate content across the widest variety of curriculums, from downloads to software cartridges, the InnoTab 2S combines innovative technology with a developmental learning tool that grows with a child and makes learning fun.

The InnoTab wirelessly connects to VTech’s comprehensive app store, the Learning Lodge™, where parents and children can easily browse a variety of content, and children can create a wish list and send to their parents’ e-mail.

This sleek and durable toy comes equipped with 180° rotating camera and video recorder, tilt sensor, photo viewer, video player, MP3 music player, e-reader, art studio, microphone and more.

When the VTech InnoTab 2S arrived, I gave it to Haley to play around with. She is so savvy with her dad's iPad that she knows her way around these electronics. I helped her set up her profile and just let her play around with it.

It didn't take long for Haley to find the camera on it, and she went around snapping pictures of everything. We are moving at the end of the month, and she was walking around taking pics of our house and then she would show me and say "Here is the carpet that I am going to miss", or "Here are the stairs I am going to miss". It made me sad, but at the same time, I can't help but remember that scene out of Father of the Bride II where the pregnant women are walking around taking pics of everything. That first day, Haley took over 80 photos!

I wasn't able to help her with too much because she wants to do it "herself" with no help. I just waited while she played a few games and did the drawing application before she asked what the games wanted her to do. All you have to do is show her how to play something once and she wants to take it from you and do it herself.

A few days ago, I was finally able to sit with her and see what some of these games were all about, and show her more things that the tablet could do. She was able to play with it for a few weeks without me connecting to the computer and setting up an account, but you have to set up an account in order to work the wireless on the tablet. Tonight while I was sitting with her, I was very impressed with all of the things that the tablet can do! The games and applications have features that require children to learn without even realizing it! Haley was able to easily navigate the drawing application without help from me, and save her drawings!

While we were playing one of the Toy Story games, it worked by moving your finger to make Buzz Lightyear go forward or backward. Then when you touched him, he jumped. You navigate him through the level, and he falls into a toy bin filled with blocks. He has to build stairs to get up out of the box, and the game prompts you to use a specific letter to make stairs. I love that it was so fun and she was using her letter recognition at the same time!

We bought her another tablet last year, and it hasn't gotten much use. She loved it at first, when I had hooked it up to the computer, but one of her favorite games is to feed/bathe pets and it will only let her feed the dog a few treats before it tells her to connect to a computer. It is frustrating to her because I can't always connect to the computer for her. What I LOVE about the VTech InnoTab 2S is that it has wireless!! You can connect to VTech's Learning Lodge. Haley can make her own wish list online of things she would like to own for applications and I can get her list when I connect to the computer. I can also see when she has reached learning milestones and set the content appropriate for her age. It is awesome that this has wireless features!

About the Learning Lodge™

The Learning Lodge features more than 350 educational games, e-books, music and videos developed specifically for each child’s unique stage of development, as well as with their age and interests.

The broad library of subjects includes reading, math, social studies, science, creativity, problem solving and so much more!

Starting with activities suitable for toddlers and expanding to grade schoolers, the Learning Lodge gives every child an opportunity to expand their learning potential while keeping them entertained.

Featured throughout the downloads and software cartridges are popular characters such as Mike the Knight™, Angelina Ballerina®, Team Umizoomi™, Dora the Explorer™, Thomas & Friends®, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles®, Jake & the Neverland Pirates, Sesame Street and more. New titles coming out on the Learning Lodge beginning in June include: Monsters University®, Turbo®, Planes®, and more.

Parents can track their child’s progress through the Learning Lodge™ Progress Log, offer encouragement and share in their pride when kids reach new learning milestones.

Haley also really liked when the tablet read her the Toy Story 3 book. She didn't want to put it down tonight to go to bed. I promised her that when she woke up we could use it again.

The VTech InnoTab 2S Wi-Fi Learning App Tablet is available at VTech for $99.99 and comes with 2 free downloads. This is a great price for a learning tablet with wireless capabilities!

Make sure you follow VTech Toys on Facebook and Twitter to learn more about the InnoTab 2S and all of the other awesome products they have to offer!

Which of the fun, educational game cartridges would your child love to play on the InnoTab 2S?

~*~Giveaway~*~

~*~VTech InnoTab 2S~*~

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Popar Toys Princess And Her Pals 3D Book {Review & Giveaway}

2013-06-06T22:40:00.000-04:00

Disclosure: All opinions are my own. Items for review and/or giveaway were provided by sponsor or representing PR agency at no cost.

I know I have mentioned on here a few times that Haley loves to read. Well, for now, she loves for me to read to her. We read several books a day, and usually she just brings them to me and asks me to read them to her, and then she will "re-read" them to her sister or her baby dolls.

When I heard about 3D Books from Popar Toys that come to life using an iOS or android device, I knew it was something Haley would love. My husband has several applications that he has downloaded to his iPad for her, and she plays with it daily. It always amazes me what young kids these days know how to do with technology!

The Princess And Her Pals 3D Book is unlike any other book or toy anywhere. It is not so much read as it is experienced. That's because this book uses augmented reality, the newest educational experience that blurs the lines of reading and emerging science. More than a pop-up book, this Princess And Her Pals adventure has text that jumps off the page! Little girls everywhere will giggle with excitement as they can literally explore all the rooms in the castle using an iOS or android device while helping the Princesses gather up their belongings to get ready for the Rainbow Ball. With just the $19.99 price tag for the book and the Viewer App available for free on any mobile device, it's easy to see why parents are on board as well.

After the Princess And Her Pals 3D Book arrived, Haley asked me for several days to just let her "look at that princess book I saw." I held strong because I wanted to be able to sit down and explore it with her. My husband got home from work one night and he decided to get it out, and he was able to download the application to his iPad in less than 5 minutes! Once they got that done, it was easy to get started. There are step-by-step instructions on the inside of the front cover that guide you through the process.

It's super easy! I love that when we have the iPad on, this book reads itself to Haley. She can then take the iPad and position it over the book and the Princesses literally POP off the page. They walk around and talk in the room they are in.

My only complaint with using this book and the iPad is that it is kind of hard to position the book the right amount of distance away from the iPad and have it in a position that Haley can use it. We just used a cookbook holder to prop the book up and set Haley up on a pillow to do her thing.

Do you see the princesses in the top right corner?...

Besides being an awesome story, there is actually a game that can be played that features the Princesses as well. As much as Haley loves the story, she loves the games too. She can dress the Princesses in anything she wants!

She can also move them with her finger around the screen.

It is awesome how interactive this book is! Haley asks to look at it every day when daddy gets home with his iPad. The illustrations in the book are very detailed and cute as well! We just returned from an 8 day trip to Richmond, Virginia to house-hunt, and we made sure we took the book with us! It was great to have on the 2 planes we took to get there!

If you have a little Prince instead of a Princess, Popar has several other 3D Books to choose from, including Bugs 3D and Construction Machines 3D. The 3D Books retail for $19.99, which is an awesome price for this interactive toy your kids will love for a long time!

Popar Toys has a great line of interactive products for kids! Which one is your favorite?

~*~Giveaway~*~

~*~Interactive 3D Book~*~

Winner's choice - Princess And Her Pals 3D, Bugs 3D or Construction Machines 3D.

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Rylie's First Dance Recital

2013-06-06T08:00:00.000-04:00

The last year has been so much fun for my little girl! Rylie has experienced so much, done so many things, and she has really grown a lot over the past year. This will be the first of my "proud mommy" posts this week.

Or maybe next week. You know how it goes around here.

Last August I posted about Rylie's first dance lesson. Even though it was more than 9 months ago, it seems like it was just yesterday. She was a little nervous and unsure at first, and I was afraid she wouldn't even go in the room without me. I didn't know then what a fun time she would have, and what a great experience it would be for her.

Rylie started the class with Peyton, one of her best friends, and she made new friends in the class. She learned some new "moves", and generally had a great time at dance class. She did goof off some, which I guess is expected at that age, and mid-way through the year, I didn't think she would make it to the end. She seemed bored with dance and generally didn't want to go on Saturday mornings. Once they started practicing their recital dance, though, she got excited about it again.

During the last few weeks of class, her teacher always had the parents come in at the end of class to be their audience. They would perform their recital dance for us, and I was usually shaking my head as we walked out. Rylie was always scratching her face, playing with her hair, picking her nose, you name it...anything but doing the actual dance all the way through. I just knew the recital wasn't going to go well.

When recital day came, Rylie was super excited to get dressed up in her costume, especially since she got to wear bright red lipstick. I thought that the girls were all supposed to wear their hair up, so I spent 30 minutes trying to get her hair in a bun (did I tell you guys that she cut a chunk out of it that morning???) and emptied a can of hairspray on it. When we got to the recital, I noticed that she was the only one who had her hair up! Oh well, she looked cute anyway!

We left the girls with their teacher and went in and took our seats. We were a few rows from the front, so we had a good view. They had all of the little kids sitting behind these props during the first several numbers, and then it was their turn to steal the show.

Check out these Broadway Babies! My favorite parts are at about :58 and 2:20. Rylie is the third from your right...

You guys, I was not prepared for what I saw. I was almost in tears. Rylie did SO WELL! It was nothing like what I had witnessed in her practices. She paid attention and did what she was supposed to do. Sure, she played with the elastic around her throat, but I probably would have too. Nonetheless, I was SO PROUD of her! I was smiling from ear to ear as I watched her perform, and I can't even put into words the pride I felt.

We were able to pick up the preschoolers during intermission, and I couldn't wait to get to her. I wanted to scoop her up and tell her how awesome she did! When she saw us, she was smiling from ear to ear, and was so excited when she saw the flowers and the little ballerina turtle I had for her. It was such a great moment!

Rylie had been wavering back and forth as to whether or not she was going to dance again. After I was done gushing over her performance, she said "Mommy, I want to dance again next year." Ahhh, my little superstar!

Wordless Wednesday: New Stunt Show

2013-06-05T07:00:00.000-04:00

Alabama Shenanigans

2013-06-04T08:00:00.000-04:00

For several years, we have had a tradition of visiting my aunt and her family in Alabama over Memorial Day weekend. We didn't make it up there last year, but this year we did. We have had some great memories over the years, and we now have some new ones to add from 2013.

Alabama May 2010 - Most of the Gang

I worked my tail off that week and ended up being able to take Friday off. I headed out first thing in the morning to get my oil changed and tires rotated before the 350+ mile drive, only to find out that my tires were bald and my brakes were bad. Since I wanted to leave early that day, I almost blew off the oil change, but there was a voice in my head (OK, Dad, I hear you) that told me to take my truck in. Mama, the kids and I finally got on the road several hours (and hundreds of dollars) later and got in at my aunt's house late Friday night.

To me, my aunt lives out in the "country". But it's not, really. They live just outside of a large city, which means it is quiet and country-like at their house, but we don't have to drive too far to get to civilization. It is nice to sit out on the front porch while we gaze at the stars and listen to the crickets chirp.

We were all up bright and early Saturday morning, thanks to my excited children. Both of my aunt's two youngest kids (Allison and Alaina) had softball tournaments that day, so my uncle (David) took Allison and my aunt (Judy) took Alaina and dropped her off. By the time she got back with breakfast, my kids were already in their bathing suits and in the pool. We ate breakfast and played outside for a bit, and then we headed out for lunch and to catch a couple of Alaina's games.

It was so much fun for me to watch Alaina play ball. I played for many years, and watching her brought back so many memories.

Rylie was very interested in the games and watched pretty intently. In between games, she climbed up and down the bleachers and goofed off with Aunt Judy. By the time we left, she decided that softball was something she would like to try.

Bryce, on the other hand, was super tired from being up too late and being out in the sun all day, so he slept most of the afternoon away...sweating to death on my lap and my mom's. When he finally woke up with the craziest hair I have ever seen, the last game was almost over and he wanted to know if it was time to go to Walmart. (He always wants to go to Walmart to get toys, and when he found out that we had to stop there, he was over the moon!)

When we finally arrived home later that evening, the Alabama family had to go to a graduation party, so Judy left me in charge of cooking the pizzas we had purchased. Long story short...I couldn't figure out how to use their double ovens, and when I finally did, the oil from the cheese bread dripped all over the place and filled the kitchen with smoke. My aunt's phone had died and I couldn't get in touch with them. I was hungry and irritated, my kids wouldn't get out of the kitchen, and my mom could only laugh at my outburst "There's always some kind of shenanigans going on every time we come here!" I'm sitting here chuckling just thinking about the madness that ensued that evening, but it certainly wasn't funny while it was going on. Damn.

Sunday was Alaina's birthday, and since she had her party the weekend prior, we decided to just hang out and have a family day. Of course my kids were in their bathing suits and out in the pool before I could even finish my coffee. Rylie did a little exploring around the deck and came running over with a huge dead lizard. "Look what I found!" Gah. This cannot be my child!

The pool water was way too cold for me, so luckily, Allison and Alaina graciously offered to get in with the kids.

Bryce has been in swimming lessons for the past few weeks, but he's still not a confident swimmer like his sister. He spent most of the morning playing around on the steps, and I thought for sure that he would be in that spot all day. I wasn't out there when it happened, but at one point, he actually slipped off the step and went under, and was forced to get himself back to the step. Being the seasoned parent of 4 that she is, my aunt watched closely to make sure he was OK, and then gave him a huge round of applause when he finally got back above water and looked like he was about to cry. After that, Bryce was a little fish! He swam back and forth between Allison and the steps, and even had a few races with Rylie.

Bryce later found a big water gun and had a great time pretending he was Buzz Lightyear and shooting his cousins with his "laser".

Alaina had filled up several water balloons, and once my kids left her alone and she was able to build up a collection, the four kids had a fun game of water balloon toss. I was surprised at how well Rylie was catching the balloons...maybe softball is in her future. Of course I ended up being the target of the water balloon war at one point. KIDS!

I figured that the kids would outlast us, but Bryce had finally had enough and wanted some lunch. My mom fixed him a sandwich and started cutting up watermelon, but he insisted that he have a BIG piece.

It wasn't long after and the kids were all snuggled up on the couch together (most of them passed out), while the adults hung out in the sun, soaking up some rays (and some peace and quiet!).

Later that evening, we decided to head to the pond for some fishing. Rylie took her first fishing trip during our visit to Alabama in 2011, and now it was Bryce's turn to try it out for the first time.

The kids got bored holding the fishing poles, and Rylie became more interested in the bait. At first, she wasn't too sure about the squiggly worms, especially since I wouldn't get near them. Yuck!

After holding one, though, Rylie thought the worms were pretty cool. She then became known as "bait girl". She was walking around with a handful of the slithering, disgusting creatures and shouting "Who needs a worm?" Seriously...where did this child come from?

Rylie and Bryce sat out on the little dock with Aunt Judy and fed the fish...first with fish food, and then after Bryce dropped a "cheetah" (Cheetos) into the pond on accident, they had fun watching the fish devour the big, puffy treats.

So here's a funny story...I was fishing. No, I didn't put the dang worms on the hooks, but once someone got me all baited up, I cast my line out into the pond. After not seeing my bright orange plastic bobber move for a while, I started reeling in my line, figuring my worm had been nibbled down to nothing. All of the sudden, this fish literally jumped on my hook. I snagged my pole back and started reeling in my "monster" fish. Unfortunately, my line got tangled in some sticks and weeds on the way back in, so I called my uncle over to get it out so I didn't lose the hook. He took over and I walked away.

A minute later I heard "Hey LeeAnn, your fish is still on here". When I turned back around, Rylie was holding my pole with my catch. I got a picture of her with it, but then was convinced to stand with my fish for a picture. ::shudder:: You notice that I wasn't all that close to it!

My uncle caught a tiny little fish and tried to get Bryce to touch it, but apparently he is definitely my son and wouldn't get near it. I guess his sister will have to toughen him up, huh?

When we got home, my aunt and her kids said they were leaving to go to my other cousin's house and feed her dogs, and put me in charge of dinner once again. "Oh hell no. I'm not dealing with any more shenanigans here tonight!" Luckily I didn't burn the house down or have a meltdown that night!

After everyone arrived back home and had some dinner, we headed out back for a campfire. Bryce was beyond excited to roast marshmallows, since he had watched Sid the Science Kid do it. Obviously he didn't know just what was in store.

Once my uncle got Bryce's marshmallow nice and crispy on the outside, Bryce didn't know what to do with it. He hates to have his hands sticky, so he wouldn't touch it, and he was trying to eat it right out of David's hand. It was hilarious! Once we assured him that we had wet wipes out there, he picked up the remnant of his half-eaten pile of mush and ate it.

Rylie had fun lighting her marshmallows on fire, but she didn't like the burnt taste of them, so she ate the plain ones while she roasted some for Judy and my mom.

When Judy and the girls went over to my cousin's house to let her dogs out, they decided to bring home her pig. Yes, my cousin owns a pig. Rylie and Bryce howled while they watched Judy and my mom try to put a diaper on this crazy pig, and the pig was squealing at decibel levels I had never heard before. When they finally realized they would never get the diaper on, they let it outside and hoped that it would do it's business there. Rylie and Bryce had a great time chasing the pig around, and Rylie actually caught it when it was time to go in. Ahhhh, only in Alabama. LOL

We left early Monday afternoon after having coffee and breakfast. It was a sad goodbye. We always have a great time with the family when we visit, and I always wish we lived closer together. The drive back wasn't too painful, and I think I only had to threaten Rylie and Bryce with leaving them on the side of the road once or twice. Of course with two kids, what should be a 7 hour drive took about 10. Still, I can't wait to go back next year...if not sooner!

What kind of shenanigans go on when you get together with your extended family?

~~Winners!!!~~ HABA, The Young Scientists Club, Publix

2013-06-03T21:00:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to last week's winners!

Götz Doll from HABA

Science Kit from The Young Scientists Club

$25 Publix Gift Card

For more chances to win cool stuff, check out our current giveaways in the sidebar!

Kids Can Bowl FREE All Summer!

2013-06-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

Disclosure: All opinions are my own. I received a free family pass in exchange for this post.

School is out and summer is here! Kids all over the country have been jumping for joy (or will be soon) when that final bell rang, and they're excited about sleeping in, swimming all day, going to the beach, or whatever else their summers have in store for them. I imagine that for some, that excitement will wear off in a couple of weeks, or there will be those rainy days when everyone is stuck in the house all day, and the kids will be climbing the walls out of sheer boredom. What to do?

How about bowling? Or better yet, how about FREE bowling?

That's right! Kids can bowl for free all summer long with Kids Bowl Free!

Select bowling centers and schools around the country are participating in the first ever Kids Bowl Free program. This program is designed by bowling centers to give back to the community and provide a safe, secure, and fun way for kids to spend time this summer.

Children whose age does not exceed a limit by a participating bowling center are eligible to register for 2 free games a day, all summer long, courtesy of the participating bowling centers along with the schools and organizations.

We decided to save some money this summer and take Rylie and Bryce out of daycare. They'll be spending their days with my mom until Rylie starts kindergarten in the fall, and I'm looking for inexpensive and free activities that will keep them moving and away from the TV. When I heard that they could bowl for free every day, I knew I would be signing them up! Rylie and Bryce have been to two bowling birthday parties in the last few months, and they both had a great time rolling those balls down the lanes and watching the pins fall.

It is so easy to sign up for this program! All you have to do is visit KidsBowlFree.com and select your state to get started. You then select the bowling alley closest to you, enter your information and the names of your children (up to six), and your weekly coupons will be delivered to your inbox. You will receive two coupons per day, per child, for the next week, absolutely free! Shoe rental is additional, depending on the policies of your particular bowling alley.

If you want to bowl with your children (I do!), you can purchase a family pass for only $24.95. This will allow up to four adults to bowl along with the kids for two games, every day. Yes, every day, even on the weekends! So if you are like me and work during the week, you can still have quality family time together on the weekends.

This is such a great program, and we will definitely be using it this summer! The kids will have a lot of fun, and we won't have to shell out a ton of money for that fun. Pretty awesome, right?

If you're looking for a FREE activity to keep your kids moving this summer, make sure you sign them up now! While you're there, go ahead and get your family pass for $24.95 so you can get moving yourself. Each bowling center only has a certain amount of family passes, and when they're gone, they're gone. You don't want to be sitting there just watching the fun, do you?

And don't let those ugly bowling shoes stop you...as you know, kids look cute in anything!

What are you doing to keep your kids entertained this summer? Have you signed up for Kids Bowl Free yet?

Smooth CE 7.4 Elliptical Trainer #SmoothBlogger {Review}

2013-06-02T18:00:00.000-04:00

Disclosure: All opinions are my own. I am a Smooth Fitness Ambassador and received an elliptical machine at no cost, in order to facilitate my review (and my quest for a healthier lifestyle).

As you all know, I have been exercising with my Smooth Fitness Elliptical Trainer for a few months now. I absolutely LOVE this machine, and I wanted to wrap up my Smooth Blogger series with my overall review.

I have had some experience with home exercise equipment, and I learned early on that "you get what you pay for". If you want a good, quality piece of equipment, you have to be willing to spend some money. If you "go cheap", not only will you be disappointed with your equipment, but your workouts will not yield the results that you would get by using gym-quality exercise equipment.

From the moment my Smooth CE 7.4 Elliptical Trainer was delivered and set up, I knew that this was a quality piece of exercise equipment. This top rated elliptical from Smooth Fitness was sturdy, and all of the pieces went together flawlessly.

My workouts on my elliptical almost seem easy because it is so smooth! There is none of that "sticking" that you get with some of the lower quality elliptical machines out there. This is due to the heavy duty flywheel contained in the Smooth CE 7.4, which allows me to glide through my workouts. It is easy to get moving, and it has consistently delivered a smooth ride every time I use it.

The ergonomic foot pedals on this machine are the best pedals of any elliptical I have exercised on! Emulating the orthopedic movement of your ankle, the pivoting foot pedal supports your heel while allowing your ankle to assume its most functional position throughout the entire elliptical cycle. I have never experienced any discomfort in my joints during, or after, my workouts. I feel that these large, ergonomic pedals also provide a safer workout - the pedals are very large with high sides, and my feet have never slipped out of position.

As I said, the CE 7.4 is very sturdy. According to the specs, this elliptical weighs 210 pounds and it does not move at all while I exercise. One of the great features of this machine is that it has Tilt and Go Wheels, which enable even weaklings like me to move it around. All I have to do is lift up on the back and move the elliptical to where I want it.

The large LED display, which is the "brains" of the machine, is very easy to use. There are different user settings that store your age and weight, so you don't have to enter that information in each time. The screen is easy to read, and the instructions scroll across at each step of the set up process.

Underneath the screen is a small shelf for your reading materials or phone, tablet, etc., along with a water bottle holder. This elliptical also comes with the SmoothSound™ Audio System, which allows you to plug in your iPod or MP3 player so you can jam out to the music coming out of the two speakers contained in the console. Brian uses this feature and said that the speakers sound good. There is also a three-speed fan above the display, which helps to keep you cool during your intense workouts!

While the exterior of the display has plenty of nice features, it is what is inside that counts. There are 15 preset programs - a manual program, 3 target programs (time, distance and calories), a MET program, a fat burning program, an interval program, a strength program, a fitness level test, a target heart rate and 5 custom programs - that allow you to customize your workout to your desired results. I generally use the fat burning program, which keeps me exercising for longer periods of time at a consistent level of intensity. There are 16 different intensity levels on this machine, so your workouts can get more intense as your fitness level increases.

This particular elliptical also comes with a heart rate monitor strap, which I use every time I work out. Since heart rate is a key indicator of your fitness level, I like to know what my heart rate is while I work out, and I try to keep my heart rate at the target rate that is displayed on the side of the display.

Overall, I absolutely LOVE this elliptical trainer, and I have absolutely no complaints with it so far. It comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame & braking system, 7 years on all parts & electronics and 2 years in home labor, so even if I do have issues in the future, I know they will be taken care of.

The Smooth CE 7.4 Elliptical Trainer was on sale for $1,599 at the time of this review. I honestly think it is worth every penny of that price. You don't normally see this type of professional-quality workout equipment in a home, and some elliptical machines I have used at gyms haven't even been this nice. As I said, "you get what you pay for", and if you want a high-quality exercise machine, this is the elliptical for you!

Wordless Wednesday: Snuggle Buddies

2013-05-29T07:00:00.000-04:00

~~Winners!!!~~ Little Mommy, Eureka

2013-05-28T21:05:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to last week's winners!

Little Mommy Bubbly Bathtime Doll

Eureka AirSpeed ONE Reach Vacuum

For more chances to win cool stuff, check out our current giveaways in the sidebar!

Weekend Win It - May 25-26 {Giveaway Linky}

2013-05-24T21:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Weekend Win It! This giveaway linky is a great way to spread the word about your giveaways, or find some great ones to enter! And remember...you don't need to be a blogger to enter these giveaways!

I have some great giveaways going on right now...

Giveaway: The Young Scientists Club
Ends: 5/28

Prize: Choice of Clifford or The Magic School Bus Science Kit

Giveaway: Publix
Ends: 5/31

Prize: $25 Publix Gift Card

Giveaway: Gymboree
Ends: 6/6

Prize: $75 Gymboree Gift Card

Giveaway: Energizer
Ends: 6/9

Prize: Energizer Flameless Candle - 3x4 taupe pillar with the honey vanilla scent - along with the batteries to power it!

Giveaway: Caillou
Ends: 6/11

Prize: Caillou Bathtime With You Activity Set

Here are some great giveaways that I found this week...

Giveaway: Quinny
Blog: Thanks, Mail Carrier
Ends: 6/11

Prize: Yezz Stroller

Giveaway: Britax
Blog: Coupon Mamacita
Ends: 5/27

Prize: Frontier 90 Car Seat

Giveaway: GelPro
Blog: Mom and More
Ends: 5/27

Prize: Ergo Comfort Rug of your choice

Giveaway: Epic Movie
Blog: A Nut in a Nutshell
Ends: 5/28

Prize: EPIC prize pack including: $25 Visa gift card to go and enjoy the movie, Mub Slug Hat and Kids Planting Set

Giveaway: Blast Zone
Blog: My Silly Monkeys
Ends: 5/29

Prize: Hydro Rush Waterslide

What are you waiting for? Head over and enter these great giveaways now! And if you are hosting a family friendly giveaway (or twenty), please link them up below! I would love to find some other great giveaways to enter! Please come back and let me know if you win a giveaway that you found at Weekend Win It.

Have a great weekend!

*Please leave the end date with your giveaway. Please post the actual link to your giveaway, and no short links. People may not click if they can't see where they are going. Thanks!

Friday Ramblings And Five Question Friday - May 24th

2013-05-24T08:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday everyone! It's been a crazy couple of weeks around here, but hey, what else is new?

So my boss decided to retire last week. I have worked for him for the last 13 years (with a brief break for my temporary move back to Tampa), and I am going to miss him. He was a great leader and mentor, and he will always be a great friend. That said, I've been working some crazy hours the last couple of weeks (after midnight one night, and past ten on two nights) and I'm just TIRED. Today isn't my normal Friday off, but my new boss told me to go ahead and take it off since I've already put in plenty of hours this week.

Last weekend was Rylie's dance recital, and let me just tell you guys that I am SO PROUD of my baby! Of course there will be a more detailed post about this, but I'll just tell you that she did so well! Seriously, her performance almost brought me to tears. She had a great year dancing with her friend Peyton, and they'll be back at it again next fall!

Next weekend is Rylie's graduation from Pre-K, and I'm sure the tears will flow then. Not sad tears, though, because I'm super excited about kindergarten next year (and about not having to write a daycare check any longer)! Her class is performing a few songs for us at the ceremony, and I'm sure I'll be wearing my "proud mommy" badge then, too!

Since I ended up with a 4 day weekend this weekend, Mama, the kids and I will be driving up to Alabama to visit my Aunt and her family today. We used to get together every Memorial Day Weekend, but we haven't been since our visit in 2011. I'm excited to see everyone again finally! That said, we will have two 7+ hour car trips getting there and back...just kill me now!

What are you all doing for the Memorial Day Weekend? I hope you have a great one!

1. Do you wake before the alarm or stay in bed until the last possible second?

Wake before the alarm? HA! I'm lucky if I even HEAR my alarm. For real. Some days it goes off right next to my head for a full hour and I don't even hear it. Other days, according to Brian, I hit snooze 5 or 6 times and just roll back over. Then Brian has to pretty much shake me out of my coma. I have such a hard time getting up in the mornings! Let's just say that it's a good thing I don't have to be at work at a certain time!

2. Who should get a baby shower? Is it just the first baby or all babies?

All babies. Well, unless you have like 18 kids. I think that all babies should be celebrated, and new parents always need stuff. Even if you have a smaller diaper shower for the 2nd, 3rd, 4th... babies, it's still fun to gather around and celebrate the upcoming birth. I love going to baby showers, and I don't care how many kids you already have.

3. How will you spend Memorial Day?

See above. We will actually be driving home on Memorial Day, so it will be a celebration in itself if we can make it all the way home without me leaving someone on the side of the road.

You guys do know that I'm kidding, right? My kids are actually pretty good in the car. ::knock on wood::

4. Do you have a Storm/Hurricane/Tornado/Fire plan for your kids, house..?

We do have somewhat of a fire plan, just because I'm terribly paranoid about fire. Our "plan" is to get the kids (and now the dog) out as quickly as possible. We actually have a ladder stored outside in case we need to get upstairs from the outside. We also have fire extinguishers around the house. Depending on how bad the fire was, I would also attempt to grab my computer so we don't lose all of our photos, but I certainly wouldn't risk my life for it.

As for a storm plan? Eh, not really. The last time we "planned" for a hurricane, we had plywood covering all of our windows for weeks. If a tornado is coming, we'll get into a closet or bathroom, but for hurricanes, we'll just have to see what the predictions are before we really take action.

5. What is your favorite morning drink?

Coffee! And lots of it!

Lilliputiens Are Now Available In The US From HABA {Review}

2013-05-23T22:00:00.000-04:00

Our house, like most houses with kids, has a lot of toys. Some toys fall into the category of toys the girls like, some fall into the category of toys I like (and wish they liked), and very few fall into the category of toys we both like. I can usually pick out toys I know the girls will love, but sometimes I think they will love something, and then get it home, they play with it a few minutes, and then it makes its way to the shelf and is seldom remembered.

When I saw the Lilliputiens, I fell in love. These toys are ADORABLE! They are brightly colored and looked like a lot of fun. I really had a hard time choosing just one to review. I tried to pick something the girls would like but that I loved too. Lilliputiens is based in Belgium, their toys are made by hand with care in Asia, and they are now being carried in the USA by HABA.

Direct from the land of little wonders, HABA is proud to be the exclusive US distributor of Lilliputiens, the land of little wonders. And like the proud Belgian mothers who created this delightful line of small, fairytale rattles, puppets and squeakers, HABA is equally proud to re-introduce this beloved line to North American babies and toddlers.

The toys, patterns, fabrics, characters, are all 100% its own creations, designed by a team of five young and trend-conscious moms who ensure that in a world full of little wonders, every toy has its own fun story. Lilliputiens' numerous mascots each have their own magical universe. Soft materials and disarming characters engender trust, while the many shapes, colors and noises will continuously challenge a child's inquisitive spirit. Designs and fabulous fabrics necessitate hand sewn, handmade results.

I chose Romeo the Well-Fed Toad to review. It was so cute, I just couldn't resist it. I thought even if the girls didn't play with it, it would make a great shower gift for one of my friends who is having a baby. I really hope she isn't reading this, because there's no way I can part with this adorable toy! I think I am just going to have to order another one for her as a gift. :)

Romeo the Well-Fed Toad • 6 months and up
Romeo is a handsome and funny toad! Made from a variety of textured materials, his feet rattle, tinkle and croak. In this greedy toad's enormous mouth, there are intricately designed creatures such as a squeaking fish, a textured crab, and colorful many-armed jellyfish and a crazy fly waiting to be discovered: each with a separate rattle, offering a wealth of colors, textures and sounds.

Romeo came in a great reusable case! I love that when we are done playing with him, we can zip him back up and keep the dust away from him. It is a great way to keep all of the pieces that go in his mouth together too!

Most of the pieces you see make some kind of noise. The crab has a bell inside of him and "jingles", the fish is a squeaker, and the fly makes a "crinkly" sound. Romeo "ribbits" when you push one of his feet.

I just love all of the different, coordinating fabrics on this toy! His tongue even has bumps and sticks out!

His mouth is quite large, and I put all of the pieces inside before I handed it to Kennedy.

She loved Romeo The Well-Fed Toad when I gave it to her! She immediately started pulling out the creatures out of his mouth.

When she finished pulling everything out, I laughed when she opened his mouth and looked in to see what else this adorable frog had in his mouth for her to play with.

When she figured out that she had them all, it became a fun game to start shoving them all back in! Her sister was there waiting in the wings to help play with the new toy.

They both love the mirror on the front of Romeo too! We have had this toy a few weeks and it still gets played with daily! In fact, as I am typing this review, Kennedy is throwing him up in the air in front of me and falling on him after he lands. Its a good thing he has a lot of cushion for her fall!

Romeo the Well-Fed Toad is available from HABA for $47.99. This is a toy that younger children will love playing with and it is great quality that will last for years!

Along with Romeo, there are several other great Lilliputiens available from HABA:

Reversible Red Riding Hood 8" Story Doll • 9 months and up
A classic tale revisited to amaze, captivate and amuse. The path taken through the forest by our adventurous heroine is shown on her dress. Follow the story right from the Belgian waffles put into the basket to the 'shortcut' taken by the Big Bad Wolf when he encounters Red Riding Hood. All three heroes can be found in one puppet. In a flash, Red Riding Hood converts into Grandma or the Big Bad Wolf.

Liz the Reversible Doll • 3 months and up
Liz, the little 9" elf, changes, in a flash, into a superb ladybug that makes amazing sounds, has a mirror and various different textures. A sophisticated rattle develops along with your baby’s abilities.

Baby Lucy 7pc set • Infant and up
Look after your favorite doll just like mommy and daddy! Give her a bottle, dress her, change her and then when it's time for bed, put her to sleep in her pretty leaf basket. Make sure you don't forget her little doll! 7 pc set includes doll, removable hooded wrap, diapers, shoes, bottle and stuffed hedgehog.

These super cute Lilliputiens are definitely toys that both my girls and I like!

Which of these adorable Lilliputiens is your favorite?

Wordless Wednesday: Rylie Is Graduating From Pre-K!

2013-05-22T07:00:00.000-04:00

Caillou Bathtime With You {Review & Giveaway}

2013-05-21T22:15:00.000-04:00

Disclosure: All opinions are my own. Items for review and/or giveaway were provided by sponsor or representing PR agency at no cost.

There are a lot of shows on television for children to watch, and my kids have a few favorites. I know that when the TV is off that they will play together with their toys, so we generally don't turn on the TV until around 4PM or 5PM when I need to make dinner and get a few things done. When I found out I was going to be doing a review for a Caillou bath toy, I recorded a few shows on our DVR for the girls to watch in the evenings to see what Caillou was all about. He is a curious 4-year old that is always discovering new things!

About Caillou

Growing up is the greatest adventure and with Caillou your preschooler will learn how to manage everyday adventures like tying shoes, composting, how to be healthy and much more!

Discovery, learning, growing. In Caillou's world, these things are paramount. Being 4 years old means life is full of little challenges – and sometimes BIG ones too! Caillou meets these challenges eagerly; exploring his world, discovering new things, and often learning from his mistakes. With a focus on healthy nutrition, exercise, safety, and the environment, each "Caillou" episode is grounded in an everyday experience – one that inspires children to grow emotionally as they explore the world around them. As Caillou overcomes life's obstacles and makes healthy choices, children are inspired to do the same – making him an everyday hero!

I was sent the Caillou Bathtime With You Activity Set and a DVD to watch. When it arrived, Haley couldn't wait until bath time to play with the toy! It was a good thing I had a DVD to let her watch since it wasn't quite time for her bath yet. She liked the episode and didn't make a peep the entire time it was on. Caillou is always up for an adventure! I know she will want to watch more episodes and there are all-new ones airing on PBS and Sprout.

Just like the TV show, the Caillou Bathtime With You Activity Set is full of bright colors. It was really easy to set up and took little time to get it put together.

The bath toy has a cute net to fish the smaller Caillou out of the water, a slide for him, a green fish that moves back and forth and makes a sound, and you can use his hat to put water in his head and it comes out of his mouth. When bath time is over, there are suction cups on the back for storage. These suction cups didn't work on my tub tile at all so we just set the toy along the edge of our tub.

Haley and Kennedy both love to put water in his head and watch the water come out of his mouth and make the green wheel turn.

You can take the smaller Caillou and pull him apart and place the lifesaver on his middle and play with him in the tub. He floats on his side but the girls still like to play with him. I think he looks like he is snorkeling.

The Caillou Bathtime With You Activity Set is available at Toys R Us for $19.99. You will also find several other Caillou toys that any Caillou enthusiasts would enjoy!

Would your little one enjoy bath time with Caillou?

~*~Giveaway~*~

~*~Caillou Bathtime With You Activity Set~*~

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