It'S jUst mY LiFe...

Pamper Yourself Spa Giveaway #PGMom

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Wed, 15 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

If your life is anything like mine it means you are on the go a lot and do no take enough time for yourself. It seems like I have a lot of things that get in the way of taking time for me – laundry, housecleaning, homeschooling, family commitments and life in general. Not that I do not enjoy all of these things but a day of pampering is just the ticket for me to repair, relax and refresh not just for myself but it changes my over all attitude when I am dealing with daily life.

Most days I only have time for a quick shower before mommy duties call me into action. I have been using Pantene Pro-V Repair & Protect Collection on my hair, it can help repair six months of visible signs of damage in just one use. The weightless, non-sticky serum resurfaces hair at its weakest points and helps to restore hair while you sleep for a healthy looking start each morning. I thought my hair was healthy until I started using this and could feel the difference it made on my hair. My hair now feels softer and silky smooth.

Here's your chance to try it for yourself as well as some other wonderful products, one of It's just my life... readers has a chance to win the prize pack pictured above,

WIN!

P&G Spa giveaway valued at $95*. The bundle includes:

Febreze Vanilla & Moonlight Candle
Pantene Repair & Protect Conditioner
Pantene Repair & Protect Shampoo
Pantene Overnight Miracle Repair Serum
Pantene Stylers Hairspray Flexible Hold
COVERGIRL Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss Grapevine
COVERGIRL LashBlast Clump Crusher Mascara
Olay Massaging Bar Soap
One Free Clairol Hair Colour Coupon
COVERGIRL LipPerfection Jumbo Gloss Balm

GIVEAWAY RULES

The DEADLINE:

GIVEAWAY ENDS

MONDAY, JUNE 10, 2013 ~ 11:59 PM EST

Open to Canada ONLY.

Pamper Yourself - Spa Giveaway (arv $95)
Disclosure: I am a P&G Mom and I was provided with product to test. My opinions are my own.
By entering the following contest you are accepting that if you win your contact information will be shared with a P&G PR and shipping agency for the purpose of mailing your prize. Please allow 4-6 weeks from the contest closure date to receive your prize.
This giveaway may appear on other blogs as part of the #PGmom program. However, to be fair, you can only win once per giveaway. If your name is chosen more than once, another winner will be selected.

Catching up

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Mon, 13 May 2013 13:26:00 +0000

Just in case you have not been following me on social media lately you might not realized that we moved back to our hometown. It was not an uneventful move day but it was one filled with joy as we were finally coming home after 10 long months of being in Toronto.

Upon returning to this small city we noticed the many things we had taken for granted while we lived here the first time. Here is a short list of the things that we missed while living in Toronto.

The colour green – it might not mean much to you but when you have lived around apartment buildings for 10 months you begin to miss the colour green. Every where I look around town I see green.
The fact that I can run errands and be done in an hour and that is with going to about 6 stores.
I can walk to most of my destinations on a daily basis. This just warms my heart. I love living in what is thought to be the downtown area of my little city.
There is hardly any vehicles on the road no matter where I go in town.
Best of all I am only 20 minutes away from my parents. Oh how my heart is happy with just the thoughts of this.

Those are a few things that we enjoy about our little city here in Southwestern Ontario. I will be starting a house tour shortly of our 153 house that we purchased. I love everything about it.

On Another Journey

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Wed, 01 May 2013 23:40:00 +0000

Time for another journey that will be taking us to another city. After much prayer and talk we have decided to return to our hometown. Yes, you heard me we are heading back. We have purchased a house less than three weeks ago and we move in this week.

As you can see the SOLD sign is on the house and we have done our final walk thru of the property. We are almost completely packed just some necessities left to pack now.

We are leaving the big city of Toronto but not without it making a huge impact on our lives. We have met so many wonderful people and are blessed to have them in our lives.

When it comes right down to it .... big city people we are not. We came to Toronto from small city Ontario and when we came to Toronto we were excited about the adventure we were on but once the excitement wore off we were missing small city Ontario and longed to be back with our friends and family.

It was not an easy decision to go back but it was the best decision for our family. I want to thank everyone we have met here in Toronto for making us feel so welcome from the very first day. We have had the most amazing landlords anyone could ever ask for and I thank them for that.

I am so looking forward to what I call normal and familiar way of life back home. We will be back to visit as this city has so much to offer but at this time we are returning home where our hearts are and always have been.

Koala Kid {DVD Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 11:56:00 +0000

I was finally about to sit down and review my copy of Koala Kid and I found it very colourful and not to mention cute. My child did enjoy the movie and will probably be watching it again as it kept her attention. There was a lot of action in this show to keep your little ones engaged.

More about the movie:

Journey down under and meet a whole new breed of hero in this laugh-filled, action-packed animated adventure with an all-star voice cast, including Rob Schneider, Tim Curry and Alan Cumming. Johnny (Schneider) is a rare white koala bear who just wants to fit in and make friends. But when a twist of fate mistakenly transforms him into a fearless protector of animals, called “Koala Kid,” Johnny finds himself in over his head on a thrilling trek across the outback. With help from his hilarious new sidekicks, including a crafty Tasmanian devil, a lovable lizard and a boomerang-flinging female koala, Johnny may just outwit a villainous crocodile named Bog (Cumming) and become a true hero after all.

Koala Kid DVD
Starring: Rob Schneider, Tim Curry and Alan Cumming
Director: Kyungho Lee
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: April 30, 2013
Rating: PG
Run Time: 86 minutes

** Disclosure: Posted by It's just my life... I was provided promotional material by the manufacturer or a representing PR agency. Images, information and prize provided by PR agency. The opinions and comments on this blog are those of the author. **

May is #MonthOfMom Photo Challenge #PGMom

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 13:40:00 +0000

I am participating in a photo challenge this month and it will be a challenge. I love taking pictures and take lots but I have a bad habit of not posting them when I am supposed to but I am up for the challenge and maybe I will get in the habit of sharing more photos with all my readers.

Follow my twitter feed to see if I keep up with the challenge this time around or better you we would love for you to take part in the challenge also by using the hashtag #MonthOfMom.

The photo above shows the calendar of the photo challenge I am doing for May to celebrate the Month of Mom.

Disclosure: Posted by It's just my life... on behalf of P&G as part of the #PGMom program. Product, perks and compensation are part of this program. Opinions and comments are those of the author.

Laundry Care for Sensitive Skin {#Giveaway} #PGmom

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 21:19:00 +0000

I find that in our family we all have different skin types. The winter really does a number on our skin making it more sensitive and dryer. My youngest daughter breaks out if we use certain detergents. I do make sure that I buy products that are gentle on her skin.

You do not have to have sensitive skin to use these products as a P&Gmom I was given these products to try out on my family and we loved how soft our clothes felt as well as the itch free wearing we were able to enjoy as our skin was not irritated by the detergents and perfume.

Tide, Downy and Bounce have joined forces to provide a laundry regimen that’s gentle enough for sensitive skin.

1. Wash: Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Detergent has been specially designed for sensitive skin. It’s made with no dyes or perfumes and is dermatologist tested to provide your fabrics with a great clean that’s gentle on your skin.
2. Soften: Experience all the softness of Downy, free from dyes, perfumes, and worries. Ultra Downy Free & Sensitive Liquid Softener is the leading “free” fabric softener that’s also 100 per cent dermatologist tested so you can focus on enjoying fabrics that are wonderfully soft with less static and fewer wrinkles.
3. Protect: Use Bounce Free & Sensitive Dryer Sheets and enjoy the softness and static protection of regular dryer sheets without perfumes or dyes. It’s like sensitive skin’s BFF.

One of It's just my life... readers has a chance to win the prize pack pictured above.

How do you do your laundry? Do you use your favourite fabric softener or the same detergent?

WIN!

P&G Sensitive Skin Laundry Trio Prize Pack(arv $25)

Giveaway Rules:

Each entry must be accomplished exactly as it is stated, including providing anything in the "Extra Info" field, for it to count.
You can perform each entry type ONE TIME ONLY unless otherwise specified.
If there is a "leave a comment" entry type, be sure the name you type in the comment's name field is EXACTLY the same as the name you use in the form (this is so I can verify your comment).
Make sure to leave a VALID email address in the promosimple email field so I can contact you if you win.
If you already follow/like me or the company via G+, Google Friend Connect, Twitter, Facebook, etc., that's okay–the entries still count.
If contacted as the winner you have 24 hours to reply.
Entry is via the promosimple widget below.

The DEADLINE:

GIVEAWAY ENDS

MONDAY, APRIL 29, 2013 ~ 11:59 PM EST

Open to Canada ONLY.

WIN Sensitive Skin Laundry Trio Prize Pack (arv $25)

I am a P&G Mom and I was provided with product to test. My opinions are my own.

By entering the following contest you are accepting that if you win your contact information will be shared with a P&G PR and shipping agency for the purpose of mailing your prize. Please allow 4-6 weeks from the contest closure date to receive your prize.

This giveaway may appear on other blogs as part of the #PGmom program. However, to be fair, you can only win once per giveaway. If your name is chosen more than once, another winner will be selected.

The Many Uses of Vinegar

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 13:39:00 +0000

I love using some of the products on the market today but I know in today's economy many people do not have the money to spend on products that line the grocery store shelves? Vinegar is a safe, effective, and economical product. (Plus, I just bought a gallon for $1.49.) Here are some of it's many uses:

Uses for Vinegar in the garden:
1. Kill grass: Undiluted vinegar will kill grass between bricks and sidewalk cracks. Simply spray where needed.
2. Clay Pot Cleaning: Vinegar will remove the white salt buildup on old clay pots. Simply soak the affected areas in full strength vinegar.
3. Kill Weeds: Spraying full strength vinegar on weeds will kill them - be careful not to spray it on the surrounding grass as it will kill that too.
4. Deter Ants Spray vinegar around doors, appliances, and along other areas where ants are known to gather and the vinegar will keep them away.
5. Keep Cats Away: Vinegar will help keep cats away from areas you don't want them. Sprinkle vinegar on any areas where you don't want the cat walking, sleeping, or scratching.
6. Freshen Cut Flowers: Vinegar will help fresh cut flowers last longer. Add 2 tablespoons of vinegar and 1 teaspoon sugar for each quart of water.

For Cleaning:
1. Laminate floor cleaner.
1 part vinegar
1 part rubbing alcohol (speeds up the drying time)
1 part water
1 drop liquid dishsoap

Keep a spray bottle filled with this stuff for touch up jobs. When you need to mop all over, mix it up in a small mop bucket, doubling the water vs. the other ingredients, make sure wring out mop well.
Windows: Save your spray bottles and use a 50/50 vinegar and water mixture to wash your windows. Use an old newspaper instead of a paper towel. The newspaper won't leave paper towel lint or streaks on your windows.

Dishwasher- Run 1 cup of white vinegar through your dishwasher once a month to remove soap residue. You'll notice your glasses come out with fewer spots and streaks throughout the month.

Coffeepots- Run a pot full of white vinegar through your drip coffee maker once a month. (Be sure to run about 3 pots of clean, cold water through afterwards.) This keeps your coffee maker free of mineral buildup and allows the great taste of your coffee to shine through.

Walls: Remove grease from kitchen walls: Put straight vinegar on a dishcloth to wipe grease off kitchen walls, or the stovetop.

Clean kitchen and bathroom faucets: Soak a paper towel in vinegar then wrap it around your faucet to remove mineral deposits.

Clean the toilet rim: Put straight 5% vinegar in a squirt bottle and use it to clean the rim of the toilet. It disinfects, too!

Prevent mold and mildew in the shower: Wipe down tile or Formica shower walls with a sponge or cloth dampened with water and vinegar. The vinegar will clean the walls and inhibit the growth of mold and mildew.

Unclog the showerhead: Mineral deposits from hard water can cause a sputtering, clogged shower head. Place the showerhead in a pot, add enough vinegar to completely cover it. Heat the vinegar to just below boiling, then remove from heat. Allow to sit for at least 6 hours. The acid in the vinegar will eat away the deposits. Rinse the showerhead well, and it's ready to go again.

Remove rust: To get rid of rust, soak items in vinegar (do not dilute). This will work on any metals.
Get rid of stickers, decals and sticky residues: Rub a few coats of vinegar on the area and allow to soak. Then wash off with a wet washcloth and the sticky will rub right off.

Beauty Care:
Sunburn: Add a cupful of apple cider vinegar to the bathwater to soothe tired muscles and relieve dry itchy skin and sunburn.
Remove residue and styling product build up from hair: After shampooing, rinse your hair with a mixture of 1/2 vinegar, 1/2 warm water to remove all the build up and get rid of that dullness.

Laundry:
Make your own fabric softener by mixing baking soda, vinegar and water (parts: 2/2/4). Add a quarter cupful of the mixture to the final rinse for hand or machine washing.
Stain Removal: Ink stains can be removed by soaking the fabric in vinegar for an hour or two before washing in the usual way. Or rub a small amount of vinegar gently on fruit, jelly, mustard or coffee type stains and wash as usual. No more stain!
Eliminate smells: Run a hot tub of water and pour in one or two cups of vinegar. Hang smelly clothes on hangers along your shower curtain rod. This will remove smoke and other tough smells.

Smells:
Make your own air spray by mixing two cupfuls of white vinegar with one cupful of crushed herbs, choosing from rosemary, lavender, cloves, thyme or pine needles. Place the ingredients in a saucepan and boil gently for ten minutes then leave to cool. Pour into a large jar with close-fitting lid. Leave to stand for three or four weeks. Strain and add the mixture to a spray container or atomiser. Use in the same way as commercial air sprays.
Remove pet urine stains (and smells) from carpet: Mix about 1/4 cup of vinegar to a quart of water. Soak a washcloth in the mixture and blot the area several times.

Do you use vinegar for other things if so please share in the comments below.

Shopping for my Pet at Target #cbias

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 17:23:00 +0000

This past week we purchased a house to move back to our home town. While we were packing we noticed that the bed we had for our dog had seen better days. Since we were getting some new digs to live in she needed some new digs to sleep in. Our pet is a member of our family and we love to spoil her rotten. We decided to head out to Target which has recently opened in Canada to see what kind of things they had for our precious furbaby.

Look at the Canadian Love when you walk in!

When we entered Target we noticed how bright the store was and we felt the Canadian love displayed as soon as we looked up. I really love the spacing in the aisles in the stores. There was so much room to get your cart or stroller through it was so nice.

The room in the aisles is amazing and can fit all strollers and carts no problem.

We spent some time in the home decor aisles seeing if we thought anything would be good for our new house and making mental notes of things we liked for after we moved. Trust me I found many things that I will be picking up once we have moved.

Cruising through the Home Decor aisles.

But on to the reason we were here... a new dog bed. While walking through the pet area I could not help but notice all the choices of dog chews. So many to choose from and displayed so neatly.

Dog Chews

The aisles in the pet area were packed full of many different products and also the tried and true brands we counted on for our dog. I noticed aisles after aisle of dog and cat supplies, food and toys.

We took our time cruising the aisles looking at all the selection they had for our little furbaby. So many of her favourites lined the aisles and many products we haven't seen before that we are going to pick up and try for her.

It was finally time to check out the beds for our dog.... if you are anything like me you have to look at everything before finally making your way to what you came to purchase.

Lots of dog beds!

So many dog beds to choose from making my choice a more strategic one. In the end I went with a style she was familiar with, she is 10 years old now and change isn't something she loves. Of course it helped that the colours match my new house as well which did help in narrowing the selection down for us.

And the one we choose!!!!

Just look at her enjoying her new digs! She was a bit camera shy but I know she likes it because I often find her laying in her new bed.

Head over to G+ to see our whole shopping trip here.

** Disclosure: It's just my life... is a member of the Collective Bias® Social Fabric® Community. This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias® #cbias #SocialFabric. The opinions and comments on this blog are those of the author. **

Brita New Product Innovations {#Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 17:26:00 +0000

There has been a judge of water in my fridge forever! We love having cold water to drink all the time and I often refill it on a daily basis. We have used Brita's from time to time over the years. We always go back to Brita after trying a different system. We have always had the traditional white Brita Pitcher in our fridge and now I have this colourful new sleek one! I love the new look of the pitcher.

We are blessed in Ontario, Canada to have good drinking water out of our tap but it doesn't taste the best all the time. I really taste the chlorine in our drinking water and the Brita. This year Brita has come out with a new series of pitchers including the one pictured above.

The Brita® Grand Pattern Series Pitchers offer a sleek yet fun new look to the Brita® Grand pitcher we know and love. The new designs and colours make for a great kitchen, table or patio accessory.

Product Details:

Capacity: 10 (240 mL or 8 oz.) glasses
BPA free
Reduces chlorine (taste and odour), copper, mercury and cadmium*
Electronic filter change indicator reminds you to replace pitcher filter every two months or 151L
Easy-fill lid
Comfort grip handle
Available in Blue Bubbles, Black Bubbles, and Turquoise Versailles
MSRP: $39.99

Be sure to check out Brita.ca for their new product and information. They really do have some great colourful new looks!

Also remember this past summer I reviewed the Brita Water Bottle filtration system, you can see that post here.

** Disclosure: Posted by It's just my life... I was provided promotional material by the manufacturer or a representing PR agency. Images, information and prize provided by PR agency. The opinions and comments on this blog are those of the author. **

Keep those Tweens Brushing with Oral-B and Crest {#Giveaway} #PGMom

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 13:29:00 +0000

Getting my tween to brush is like pulling teeth! It is a constant reminder that I should just record and put on repeat every morning and night. I will say that Oral-B Pro-Health FOR ME Electric Powered Toothbrush has helped with the auto repeat that I was doing on a daily basis.

P&G was nice enough to send over an electric powered toothbrush for my tween that has her brushing her teeth without reminder on a daily basis. In her own words she says that after brushing her teeth with the Oral-B Pro-Health FOR ME Electric Powered Toothbrush her teeth feel so smooth and clean.

I wish I had known a few years ago that all I needed was an electric toothbrush to save my voice every day. I am not saying it will change your life like it did mine with being able to mute the auto repeat but it just might make brushing your tweens teeth a lot easier and more fun for them.

P&G didn't want to just bless my family with the new Oral-B Pro-Health FOR ME Electric Powered Toothbrush, they also want to give one of my readers a chance to win a Oral-B Tween Teeth Bundle.

WIN!

Oral-B Tween Bundle (arv $50)

Giveaway Rules:

Each entry must be accomplished exactly as it is stated, including providing anything in the "Extra Info" field, for it to count.
You can perform each entry type ONE TIME ONLY unless otherwise specified.
If there is a "leave a comment" entry type, be sure the name you type in the comment's name field is EXACTLY the same as the name you use in the form (this is so I can verify your comment).
Make sure to leave a VALID email address in the promosimple email field so I can contact you if you win.
If you already follow/like me or the company via G+, Google Friend Connect, Twitter, Facebook, etc., that's okay–the entries still count.
If contacted as the winner you have 24 hours to reply.
Entry is via the promosimple widget below.

The DEADLINE:

GIVEAWAY ENDS

SUNDAY, APRIL 28, 2013 ~ 11:59 PM EST

Open to Canada ONLY.

WIN Oral-B Tween Bundle (arv $50) I am a P&G Mom and I was provided with product to test. My opinions are my own.

By entering the following contest you are accepting that if you win your contact information will be shared with a P&G PR and shipping agency for the purpose of mailing your prize. Please allow 4-6 weeks from the contest closure date to receive your prize.

This giveaway may appear on other blogs as part of the #PGmom program. However, to be fair, you can only win once per giveaway. If your name is chosen more than once, another winner will be selected.

My Little Pony - Friendship is Magic { #Giveway }

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 21:09:00 +0000

My daughter really likes watching My Little Pony. Over the years she has collected her fair share of ponies, she really enjoys playing with them. I do have to say my favourite pony is rainbow dash with the colourful mane.

She was excited to receive My Little Pony Friendship is Magic - Adventures of the Crystal Empire and My Little Pony Friendship is Magic Pinkie Pie Party!

available on DVD now

My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic is the #1 show on Treehouse in Canada, and is a hugely popular brand the world over. My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic – Adventures in the Crystal Empire is now out on DVD in Canada.

My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic - Pinkie Pie Party is coming to DVD in Canada on April 16th. It includes 5 episodes, and bonus features include a Sing-Along and a Party Activity Kit. My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic - Pinkie Pie Party is priced at $14.97 SRP and will be available exclusively at Walmart where you can preorder your copy now here.

available on DVD on April 23rd

I really love the positive messages in the My Little Pony series. It is very entertaining to watch and holds her attention the whole time. We enjoyed the shows on Friday evening with some popcorn for a special movie night with our daughter.

WIN! Two (2) My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic DVDs!

Giveaway Rules:

Each entry must be accomplished exactly as it is stated, including providing anything in the "Extra Info" field, for it to count.
You can perform each entry type ONE TIME ONLY unless otherwise specified.
If there is a "leave a comment" entry type, be sure the name you type in the comment's name field is EXACTLY the same as the name you use in the form (this is so I can verify your comment).
Make sure to leave a VALID email address in the promosimple email field so I can contact you if you win.
If you already follow/like me or the company via G+, Google Friend Connect, Twitter, Facebook, etc., that's okay–the entries still count.
If contacted as the winner you have 24 hours to reply.
Entry is via the promosimple widget below.

The DEADLINE:

GIVEAWAY ENDS

MONDAY, APRIL 29, 2013 ~ 11:59 PM EST

Open to Canada ONLY.

WIN Two (2) My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic DVDs!

The Bible: The Epic Miniseries {Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 01:52:00 +0000

On on Blu-Ray and DVD

The Bible is one of the best miniseries I have watched in a long while. It includes 10 hours of the television series on Blu-Ray and DVD. The Bible first premiered on the History Channel in the spring.

I really enjoyed seeing the stories of the Bible come to life on the screen and I love that the stories were brought into many homes for everyone to watch. The Bible is now available to be purchased on DVD and Blu-Ray.

This Blu-ray and DVD offers audiences will be captivated by the special features, including:

~	The Bible: Genesis – With Mark Burnett and Roma Downey as our guides, we discover how the team approached the daunting task of filming the stories of the Bible.
~	The Cast of The Bible – Highlighting the international cast, we join Mark and Roma on their search for the perfect actors to bring the characters from the Bible to life
~	The Bible: Creation – A three-part journey through the making of THE BIBLE
		Creation I: The Vision, The Look – Discover the vision of producers Roma Downey and Mark Burnett in this behind-the-scenes look at how THE BIBLE was created including the incredible team, beautiful location, high-quality production and superb costume design
		Creation II: Production Stories – An exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the challenges faced by the production - including the supernatural experiences with snakes on set – plus Diogo’s approach to portraying who he has called the most complex figure in human history
		Creation III: Crucified & Resurrected – A deeper look into the emotional filming of the crucifixion, resurrection and the last days in Morocco
~	Scoring The Bible – A rare look into the recording session for the soundtrack of THE BIBLE with genius composer Hans Zimmer and award-winning soloist Lisa Gerrard
~	Believing in Miracles – The cast and crew relive the moments that happened while filming in the deserts of Morocco
~	The Bible: Visual Effects – A montage of the striking visual effects that make THE BIBLE the most high-quality Biblical epic of all time

Here are some other great Biblical classics you may want to enjoy this Easter season:

Ben Hur

This epic film follows Judah Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston), a rich Jewish prince who is betrayed and sent into slavery by his Roman friend Messala (Stephen Boyd). The prince somehow survives and returns to Jerusalem in the hopes of finding his family and exacting revenge on his one-time friend. This biblical tale won 11 Academy Awards in 1960 including Best Picture.

Passion of the Christ

Mel Gibson’s Passion of the Christ depicts the last twelve hours of Jesus’ life, including the betrayal and crucifixion. The film begins in the Garden of Gethsemane and follows Jesus as he is arrested, tried and sentenced to death on the cross. The film holds nothing back and includes a graphic and disturbing depiction of Jesus being tortured and whipped. This intense depiction of Jesus’ final hours was nominated for three Academy Awards including Best Original Score.

The Prince of Egypt

This 1998 DreamWorks animation tells the story of Moses, a Hebrew who becomes an Egyptian prince, only to flee Egypt and return to free the Hebrew people. This film about power and plagues had an all-star cast.

I give it 4.5 out of 5.

The Bible is NOW available on BluRay and DVD!

** Disclosure: Posted by It's just my life... I was provided promotional material by the manufacturer or a representing PR agency. Images, information and prize provided by PR agency. The opinions and comments on this blog are those of the author. **

Parental Guidance {Movie Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 11:17:00 +0000

My family found Parental Guidance to be a very funny movie. It was slightly predictable but it was so funny we didn't mind that it was predictable. Artie was the grandfather played by Billy Crystal and his story line was both funny. I loved seeing Billy Crystal and Bette Midler just take over with their entertaining comedy.

I really loved seeing the bond grow between the grandparents and their grandchildren. They started to far apart and are brought together through out the movie. I love heart warming tales like this. Once you purchase this Blu-Ray be sure to check out the gag reel because it is really funny and totally enjoyable.

About the movie

Billy Crystal, Bette Midler and Marisa Tomei prove that laughter is relative in this hilarious comedy that’s fun for the whole family!

Old-school grandparents Artie (Crystal) and Diane (Midler) get more than they bargained for when they get stuck babysitting their type-A daughter’s (Tomei) overprotected kids. But things go from hectic to hysterical when Artie realizes the kids are running the house with their newfangled technology. By playing by his own rules, which include sugary snacks, old fashioned games and tough love, Artie manages to outsmart the kids and achieve the impossible- bring the family closer together!

I give it 3.75 out of 5.

Parental Guidance is NOW available on BluRay and DVD!

Love Unconditionally

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 14:09:00 +0000

The events of the past week have made me realize a couple of things. Life is very short and you just don't know when you are going to see the person you love again. Nothing in this world can take the place of the ones you love and most important all the love in the world can not bring a loved one back to you.

Staying upset with someone you love is just not worth it. Life is too short to sweat the small stuff and in the grand scheme of life will what you are upset about really make you or break you? These are things you must consider when you are dealing with loved ones. I know for me it doesn't because the people I have in my life are very important to me and I love them more than any conflict I could possibly have with them.

My Children!

This post has been floating around in my head since the events of last weekend, you know what I am talking about... the passing of a loved one so unexpected. For us it was also in such a violent and senseless way. As I attended the funeral and felt nothing but the out pouring of love and adoration for my cousin and the heart wrenching pain of his family. I realized how fortunate I am to have such a loving family.

My extended family is spread out all across North America but that doesn't stop us from caring and loving each other. And when we do see them it is as if time has never passed. They are the same as I remember back in the day when we saw each other almost every weekend. When it comes to supporting each other we are there. That is what family does.

It is not that my family doesn't have its differences but loving people means you love people unconditionally even when you do not agree or have differences. Cherish the moments you have with your loved ones. Appreciate the time you have together because you never know when the last time will be. Live life to the fullest and live it without regrets!

Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Easter Eggs for Tastebud Tuesday

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 11:28:00 +0000

With Easter just days away it has been a tradition for me to make Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Easter Eggs for my family. Everyone loves to help out to make these delicious treats.

1 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 bag chocolate chips, melted

Directions:

In a large bowl, melt peanut butter and butter together for 1 minute this can be done in microwave on on the stove. Stir to incorporate together. Stir in vanilla and powdered sugar. Mixture will seem dry but should hold together when you form it into shapes. Using a tablespoon shape even mounds in the shape of an egg. (You can make them larger but we find them very sweet so we make them smaller) Refrigerate 10 minutes.

While peanut butter eggs are chilling, melt chocolate in microwave on low heat, stirring every 30 seconds or so.

Dip each egg into chocolate to cover completely. Remove egg with fork or skewer, and tap along the edge of the bowl to remove extra chocolate. Place onto parchment paper and sprinkle with any desired toppings or leave plain. Repeat until all eggs are covered in chocolate. Refrigerate 5 minutes until chocolate has hardened. Wrap up to give away as gifts or serve.

Happy Cooking!

Packing up the Dorm - #StorageWorx Student Special & #Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 04:01:00 +0000

Packing up the dorm and bringing my daughters home from university is an end of April ritual in our house. Whether you have a child at Western University or Fanshawe College, in London, Ontario, it is something you contend with at the end of every school year. I do love having them come home but now that their stuff is out of the house and we have organized our house to accommodate what we now have the thoughts of putting all her stuff here in boxes for 4 months of clutter is not something I look forward to doing. Storage Worx has a Student Special that offers free pick up and delivery when you return to school. All you have to do is load and unload.

Those small dorm rooms really do hold a lot of stuff and of course they add to the collection while attending university for the year. I loathe the idea of having to cart all her stuff home only to cart it right back in September, not to mention having to store all her belongings in boxes until they return to school. This is where Storage Worx comes in they can keep the clutter and store my daughters stuff for me allowing my home to be kept organized and free of clutter!

Storage Worx offers a clean secure climate controlled environment to store your child's belonging during the summer break. Just think all you have to do is call them and book a time for pick up and drop off, be there to load and unload the truck and you are done. One phone call is all it takes. Saves time and lugging everything back home. As a parent of university students this is a wonderful service at a great price.

Storage Worx Student Special includes...

4 Months of 5' X 10'
Secure Climate Controlled Storage
Free Disk Lock (Yours to keep, A $12 Value)
Free Move-In with our truck and driver
Delivery back to your place when school starts
$15 worth of Free Boxes to pack it all in!
All you have to do is Load & Unload

All this for only $395, just think the headache of storing all their belonging needed for university or college and trying to rent a truck GONE! Please note that the special runs from Feb 21, 2013 until Apr 20, 2013.

A little more about Storage Worx...

located in London, ON on 4474 Blakie Rd Suite 115
offering state of the art self storage
new climate controled facility
offers a complete business centrer for their customers
nation’s most outstanding self storage facility (awarded in 2012)
strives to "go green" by doing what they can to promote ecofriendly choices and options

Connect with Storage Worx for up to date information:
Website http://storageworx.ca/
Twitter Handle: http://www.twitter.com/StorageWorx
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/storageworx/

WIN! an Apple 16 GB WIFI iPad mini contest. (This prize does not include any data or telecommunications components – only the Apple iPad mini device).

The DEADLINE:

GIVEAWAY ENDS

MONDAY, APRIL 15, 2013 ~ 11:59 PM EST

Open to legal residents of Canada only (except Quebec)

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY to enter or win

a Rafflecopter giveaway

** Disclosure: Posted by It's just my life...was compensated for this post. Images, information and prize provided by Storage Worx and It's just my life... The opinions and comments on this blog are those of the author. **

La Roche-Posay Itch-Free Day Drawing Contest - #itchfreeday

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Sun, 24 Mar 2013 10:36:00 +0000

Every since my daughter was born she has had flare up of eczema. Even though her eczema is mild when you put it with her sensory processing disorder it just seems to make it an even bigger problem. We were told that it is not unusual for red heads to have very sensitive skin but really there was only one red head I was worried when it came to treating eczema.

We tried countless lotions, potions and prescriptions over the years, they were either to thick, greasy, scented, didn't work or felt weird on her skin. I know many of you parents out there know what I am talking about when I say it felt weird. There is no point in putting something on my daughters skin if it is going to make her skin feel like it is crawling. Then we were introduced to Lipikar Baume AP and we found it was the right combination for my daughter and it helped!

In 2012, La Roche-Posay organized the “100 families” – a program to follow families with children suffering from eczema and to provide them with the education necessary to better manage their eczema, as well as free Lipikar products. The Lipikar product line is designed for dry and eczema-prone skin and is especially adapted for children and infants.

This spring, thanks to their “Itch free day” contest, La Roche-Posay is asking children suffering from dry skin and eczema to draw what an itch free day looks like!

La Roche-Posay Facebook fans will vote for their favorite drawing and a jury will then select the winning drawing among the top 10. The artist will win a selection of La Roche-Posay products and will see his or her drawing on a limited edition Lipikar Baume AP container, released in October 2013.

Connect with La Roche-Posay on
Twitter -@larocheposayca
Facebook - La Roche-Posay

** Disclosure: Posted by It's just my life...was compensated for this post. Images, information and prize provided by representing agency and It's just my life... The opinions and comments on this blog are those of the author. **

Happy 19th Birthday, Alyssa!

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Sat, 23 Mar 2013 11:30:00 +0000

I would like to scream from the rooftops that my baby girl is 19 today. A day that less than 3 months ago we never thought she would live to see. We are beyond blessed by the medical professionals who were finally able to diagnose our daughter after an almost 5 year battle of back and forth to doctors to get a diagnosis.

Some of the wonderful traits of my beloved daughter.

She has an incredible unwavering faith. Even as sick as she was she was strong in her faith.

Her strength can not be measured. The unimaginable pain she was in for months on end and she really didn't complain a whole lot.

Her zest for life to keep on going no matter how large the obstacles is something I am in total awe of.

Her give all or nothing, she always gives 110% to everything she does in life. This is what most definitely got her through all the medical issues she has had.

My wish for you dear daughter on your 19th birthday

That the sparkle in your eye always gleams!

Always listen to your heart and know that the world is filled with possibilities!

Be your authentic self it is not the clothes you wear or the make up you put on that makes you who you are it is what is on the inside that glows.

Know that you are unique, caring, beautiful, grounded, creative, smart, brave and LOVED!

Always know that you are enough and be the only you, you can be.

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!!!!

For those of you who have followed my daughters story I will be posting an update including diagnosis in April.

Penguin Lapbook

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 18:10:00 +0000

Lapbook Cover

Flaps of Lapbook

All flaps of lapbook open
We labelled a penguin and did our Letter P page

Playing the penguin number match game.

Links for Lapbook:
I first want to say I got most of my resources at Lapbook.com.
The penguin letter sheet came from Christian Preschool Printables.
I am really sorry if I forgot any links for anything else that was done in the penguin lapbook. I am going to try to remember and jot down the links so I can give proper credit to those who have put them on the internet.

Easter Ideas and Links ...

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 17:37:00 +0000

I found this post in my drafts folder and thought it would be really cute in time for Easter so I thought I would share this post I did a few years ago but the links are all still working.

Easter themed Game and Printable

Easter Writing Station

This idea is so cool. I am definitely going to be making this for my daycare tomorrow.

The kids are going to love it. They love doing stuff now with writing and sentences.

Build a Bunny

This is an adorable game....

How to Homeschool on a Budget

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 12:58:00 +0000

Homeschooling in a creative way doesn't have to cost a lot of money. We have been on a very limited budget for four years now and yet still manage to homeschool our daughter. I find you just have to be creative with how you homeschool.

Here is my biggest tip:

All you need to homeschool is a library card! Yep just a library card will do the trick.

For years the local library has been on our must do trips every week. I know many families who homeschool pride themselves on a large home library but with our downsizing to a smaller home that just doesn't make sense to me as space is very limited. We do keep our favourite books on hand but for the most part we utilize a free tool and that is our local library. When my daughter has an interest in something I immediately go to the library website to see what books they have available and put them on hold so we can pick them up later. By putting them on hold I am guaranteed to be able to get the books needed for my daughter to investigate her chosen topic further.

Field Trips to museums, art galleries, musical programs or lectures, we are really fortunate enough to live in a community that has all of this accessible. Not to mention the live theatre we can view very inexpensively. I do realize not everyone has these kind of resources but if they are in your community please take advantage of them.

Homeschooling Groups are a great way to connect with other homeschoolers. Last year we started a homeschool group in our community and within in the group we would meet weekly. The parents would take turns with planning crafts and various activities for the children to do. As well as planning field trips to local businesses and attractions.

Television can be used as a homeschooling tool when used properly. PBS has a teachers site which offers thousands of lessons and activities to go along with their TV specials and current events.

Organize a book swap to swap books with other families to find some true gems your family will fall in love with. There are very few books that we actually keep in our home library. We do have limited space so even though I love books a lot I have to be very careful in what I keep.

Here is something that is important to remember it is not the curriculum you learn from that makes your child smart. A child can learn from anything put in front of them. The passion to learn is something we were born with and you just have to keep nurturing that in your child.

Next week I plan on writing a post on free resources online for homeschooling your child or children.

Other homeschooling articles I have written:

Reflecting on why I homeschool
What my homeschooling daughter gets to do while others are in school

Disney On Ice: Rockin’ Ever After {Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 23:34:00 +0000

As we took our seats at the Rogers Centre we noticed that they had more seats available for this performance and you could feel the excitement of all the children around you.

The show opened with our favourite characters Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy taking the ice to introduce the performance to us. They also had some dancers join them on the ice for a very entertaining opening number.

We have been to a few Disney on Ice shows and this was by far one of the most entertaining shows we have been too. We love the Disney Princesses and their stories were narrated by Mickey, Minnie, Donald and of course Goofy. They walked us through the stories as the characters on the ice performed the stories.

Our favourite story was Beauty and the Beast. It included all our favourite characters including Gaston who had a solo at the beginning that show cased his skating abilities. They talent at the show was amazing and kept us all interested the entire show.

If you are looking for not only a fun but entertaining show to take you whole family to then look no further than this Disney on Ice production. It was professionally done and an enjoyment to watch for our whole family from 8 to 47. Definitely look this show up when it comes to your area.

Puzzle Love for Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:01:00 +0000

Passing away a rainy day!

Willow {Movie Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 22:17:00 +0000

Today marks the 25th Anniversary of the movie Willow. I remember watching Willow as a teenager and sharing this movie with my young adult children when they were young. Now I am able to share this movie with my 8 year old daughter. I love when movies transcend many generations.

We really enjoyed the movie but I have to warm you that at the beginning of the movie an evil queen is searching for a baby and is planning on killing the baby so this could be frightening to some children. I just thought I would let you know. I usually do not watch fantasy movies but this is one movie I will make the option for. We really enjoyed watching the digitally restored copy on Blu-Ray.

About the movie

Journey to the far corners of your imagination with Willow, for the first time ever on stunning Blu-ray! Written and produced by George Lucas and directed by Ron Howard, the film tells a timeless fantasy tale in which heroes come in all sizes...and adventure is the greatest magic of all. In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the unforgettable classic has been fully digitally restored and debuts on Blu-ray and DVD Combo Pack March 12, 2013 from Lucasfilm Ltd. and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.

When young Willow Ufgood (Warwick Davis; Harry Potter franchise) finds an abandoned baby girl, he learns she is destined to end the reign of the wicked Queen Bavmorda (Jean Marsh; “Upstairs, Downstairs”). In order to protect the child, Willow must team up with a rogue swordsman (Val Kilmer; Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang) and overcome the forces of darkness in the ultimate battle of good versus evil!

Willow is NOW available on BluRay and DVD!

Chicken Tortellini Soup for Tastebud Tuesday

noreply@blogger.com (Annie Brown) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 13:53:00 +0000

There is nothing better when you are not feeling well then some Chicken Soup but we like to put a different spin on the classic Chicken Noodle Soup and use Tortellini noodles instead. This recipe is perfect for leftover chicken or even turkey. I also usually buy my tortellini in bulk at Costco and they had it on sale within the last month so I purchased it and put it into the freezer to use it on days like today when we weren't all feeling well and just needed some good comfort food.

1 container (28 ounces or 946mL) chicken broth
2 cups water
1 pound cooked Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini
2 celery ribs, thinly sliced
2 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon pepper

In a soup pot combine broth and water and bring it to a boil, add all the other ingredients. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes until tortellini is cooked.

When I make this for my family of 4 it usually makes enough for leftovers for lunch the next day. We often serve it with bread sticks or a salad to start.

HAPPY COOKING!