My Totally Random Life

Live Puzzle App Review

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 04:53:00 +0000

-I received financial compensation to give my review on this app. The review is 100% mine.-

Live Puzzle is an app available on Google Play for Android devices. This app is great for any age, as long as you love a great puzzle. It isn't your average every day puzzle though.

The puzzles here are live! They move as you try to put them together. It really is fun. Not only does my almost 9 year old son love it, but I had a blast with it. I played it on my Nexus 7, and the color and picture were clear and beautiful.

Some info about the app:
The names of the animals are written AND spoken in 10 different languages. It helps kids problem solve and helps with hand-eye coordination. There are 12 animals to discover from the same type of Indian forest as in The Jungle Book (Adventures of Mowgli). A great idea for learning would be to watch the movie, and then learn about the animals while playing the app (note: the app does not teach about the animals. You would need additional printouts).

What I absolutely love above all else, is that the app is FREE from third party advertising. There are not any in-app purchases to upgrade, it does not collect data. There is a protected parent section where you can find other apps as well as social network links and website for the creator of the app, Kidoteca.

This app is a great choice, and on Google Play it has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

If you want to check out the app, feel free to do so by clicking here for Live Puzzle! Forest Animals.

Did you download the app? What do you think?

Review: Ultimate Car Dock App

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 09:19:00 +0000

-I was paid to download, use and review this app. All opinions are honest and are of my own-

This nifty little app is available for Android devices and some tablets on Google Play. I have a Nexus 7, and you don't normally think of needing an app like this for a tablet. But, they wanted me to review it anyways. While I can't make calls or texts from my app, I can use this for navigation and music. However, to use this, I needed to use the hot spot from my phone. I must add, that this is nifty for around the house. I can plug my speakers into my tablet, and play music while cooking or cleaning. Not so bad.

This would probably be better suited to phones, rather than tablets. Mainly because the app is designed to keep your hands free while driving. For those of you without an iPhone with Siri, you can't text or call people without having to touch your phone. This app can help keep your hands on the steering wheel, and your eyes on the road.

The app does need permissions from your phone/tablet for use. The permissions it needs are SMS, read contacts, phone, audio, internet and bluetooth. Of course if you have a bluetooth devise you may be able to make calls/texts without this app, depending on the model you have.

With the download you get a free 7 day trial, so it doesn't hurt to download and try it out. If you like it, pay for it, if you don't, well then delete it.

On Google Play, the app has a 4 out of 5 stars. There are some reviews that are lower than 5 simply because it is a trial, then you have to pay. Well, my personal opinion is that the app info clearly states it is a 7 day trial.

Even though I used it on a tablet, I will rate this a 5. It is good for what it says, and is kinda cool to just tell my tablet to play my music.

If you want to download it, click here to get started.

Did you download it? What do you think?

Win a Macbook? I think so!

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Sat, 01 Jun 2013 09:03:00 +0000

....At least I definitely am going to try. LOL.
The point of this blog post is to point you in the direction of a Macbook giveaway.... And earn myself some extra entries in the process.

The folks over at The Penny Hoarder is holding the giveaway. I suggest you go enter.... But I really hope I win.

Enter by clicking here.

That is all .
I know, it's a short post.

--Jennifer

Wantable Makeup Box Review

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Sat, 18 May 2013 01:54:00 +0000

-Disclaimer: I have received the product mentioned below for free in return for my honest opinion.-

Ok, by now, we have all heard of these monthly boxes that are shipped and packed with great items. There are boxes for everything, health, makeup, jewelry, kids, men, nail polish, etc. I have to admit, I've tried a couple. Julep, a monthly nail polish subscription, is a decent box with a decent price. I was Ok with it at first, but then I started to get disappointed in the polish. It chipped to easily, and just, overall started to suck. So I haven't wanted a box from them in a while because of this. I may go back, but not right now.

Another popular box is Birchbox. I've gotten those too. It is a monthly makeup subscription. I had stopped using them for a while, because I was doing Julep, and didn't want to do two boxes a month, only one. So when I recently started my subscription again, it wasn't what I expected. I was expecting a box of makeup, as I had previously (they are a makeup company!). However, I received things that those who were eating healthier than I would want. I honestly only will use one thing out of that box. Its an oil for dry skin. I've been using it on my elbows, and it works well. Otherwise, the crap in that box is just gonna collect dust. *sigh* What to do?!

Right around then, I had gotten an email from someone at Wantable, asking if I would like to try out one of their boxes. I thought, perfect timing!!! So I did. I filled out my style profile - which really just asked me what kind of makeup I liked. And then my box was shipped. It came rather quickly. Less than a week actually. I was excited to open it! Well, actually, I was nervous. I thought back to the recent Birchbox, and thought what if this isn't what I like? What if they send me colors I don't like?! But I opened it, and I fell in love!

(Psst - click this box to order your own box!)

Right off the back - there are so many FULL SIZE items! Birchbox often sends samples. But this. Wow! Full size!

There is a sample from Frownies for use to help with wrinkles and bags under the eyes. It says you can reuse them for I think 4x, but you have to have their rosewater in order to do so. So this, for me, will be one time use.

Lip Color Pot

But hey, if its good and gets rid of my under eye puffs, I will probably go order some.

This lip color pot from Cailyn is really nice. It isn't too sticky feeling, and after a moment when it dries you don't even notice it. However, it will come off on drinks and silverware while eating. I had yogurt with it on, it was on the spoon, then in my yogurt LOL.

The Color Club nail polish was so hard to get a good picture of. The color is really pink, and I love pink. This will be what I put on when I do my next pedicure (probably sometime this week LOL). I really do love this color, and can't wait to wear it. I love bright, bold colors.

Darla green eyeshadow. Has a sparkle in it
you can't see in the pic.

This green eyeshadow has a sparkle that you cannot see in the picture! It is a really light color, but when paired with a primer (I used Nyx eye primer) and it seemed to show a little better. This isn't something you would wear when you want to make a statement. This is perfect for an understated, or even natural look (without primer/base). I love the shimmer in it, and it is a very summery color. It reminds me of my birthstone, peridot. This can make green or brown eyes really pop.

This here. Wow. I never even heard of these brands before. And I can say that I love this color. When it goes on it isn't really shiny like a gloss, more like a matte, which is trending right now. This can be by itself, or paired with a clear or similar colored gloss over top. The brush actually is part of the cap. Its really handy so when you are out, it is easy to apply!

Cailyn double sided eyeshadow pencil.

This eyeshadow pencil is fabulous. I love the color. One side is just silver, the other side is a glittery silver. The glittery side I have used under my eyes and in the inside corners of looks, to give it a little pop. It really is great.

From Lavera is an eyeliner in brown.

Now, I haven't used this eyeliner yet, but I plan to when I go out wtih my husband for a solo birthday dinner for him (just us, no kids LOL). I am going to pair it with a neutral colored eyeshadow, and black mascara (probably my Nyx Doll Eyes). Can't decide if I want to do a neutral lip, or a bright lip using one of the lip colors from this box!

Now, if makeup isn't your thing, they also have a jewelry box! You can order a monthly subscription of the hottest accessories. I haven't had the chance to see one in person, but I think I may have to order a box and see!

The subscriptions run for $40 a month, or you can do a recurring subscription for $36 a month. It is worth it. You get a list with or order that tells you how much each item retails for. My box, if I were to buy everything, would be around $90! uhh, yea, I love me some discounts! And it introduces me to brands I haven't heard of before, or brands I was curious about. You can skip a month if you need to. If you want to sign up, click one of the links or ads and let me know what you think of your first box! I guarantee you will like it!

Click to order yours!

--Jennifer

Ivory® 2-IN-1 Hair & Body Wash

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Tue, 14 May 2013 02:50:00 +0000

-Disclaimer: I received the product mentioned below from Influenster. It did not influence my opinion. Opinions expressed are my own-

Ivory has a new product, it is a 2 in 1 hair and body wash. Now, while I probably won't use it for me, since my hair is ridiculous and more of a princess than me (can't use 2-in-1 on my hair), my husband and son will be using this. This is actually perfect for my son since he takes super long showers (playing around). He is 8, and usually will play in the shower and use too much soap then use too much shampoo. *insert rolling eyes smiley here* So, at his next shower, he will be using this.

The scent is "Refreshing Scent" and it really does smell refreshing. Someone needs to make a candle or bathroom air freshener with this scent, because I love it. There is another scent (that was not sent to me) called "Energizing Scent".

Now, the reviews on this are 50/50. Most people find it is great for their kids, and not so much good for their hair. It states it has conditioners in it, however, many people still had to use conditioner afterwards, another said it dried her hair out (reasons why I won't use on my hair).

This should be aimed more towards men and children, not women. But, really great for men and children. I don't know if I'll use this on baby Bella, but Eric will DEFINITELY use it! He loves the scent. Update to come after his shower - either tonight or tomorrow.

Check out the Facebook page HERE
Check this cute promotional video HERE

MVP 1 and 2 DVD Reivew

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Wed, 01 May 2013 02:10:00 +0000

-I received the products mentioned in the post below for free in return for my honest review. The opinions expressed are my own. See my Disclosure page for more info-

Recently, we were chosen to receive some DVDs for review. We received MVP: Most Valuable Primate and MVP 2: Most Vertical Primate. My son loves movies like this, and so I was excited that he was able to see these. These movies came out in 2000 and 20001 (respectively), when these came out I was barely in the 7th grade! I was like 14 years old! So this brings back some memories, because I kinda remember these movies. The movie is made by the same director and producer of similar movies from that time such as Air Buddies.

MVP: Most Valuable Primate

What's it about?

MVP is about Jack, a sign language-speaking chimp. When he is sold to a research lab he makes a run for freedom. He ends up stranded in the frozen Netherlands where he becomes friends with two teenagers. Jacks turns into the local hockey team's secret weapon when they notice he is a really good ice skater. However, during the playoffs, the lab officials are closing in on him. Jack has one chance to prove himself.

Thoughts?

Well, like I said, this movie was made back in 2000. So don't expect crazy graphics and high tech effects like we have today. Overall though, it is cute. My son really enjoyed it, which is what matters the most. My son loves the Air Buddies movies and other movies like it, so it is only natural that he enjoys this one as well. It is a really cute movie, however reviews on sites like IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes will tell you otherwise. If you are looking for something cute that your kids will enjoy, this is it. I asked my son what he thought the lesson was that it taught (not something I ask him very often), and he said that animals should not be in labs having tests done by scientists, and that it also shows that you should be kind to everyone, no matter what. Have I ever mentioned how much I love my little genius! My son is also practical, and told me that chimps wouldn't really be able to play hockey. I asked why, he said because ice skating is hard. LOL

You will also see some familiar, young faces in these movies. Kevin Zegers (Gossip Girl), Jamie Renee Smith (Weeds) and Rick Ducommun (Scary Movie). It is always fun for my husband and I to try to place these young familiar faces we see in older movies.

MVP 2: Most Vertical Primate

What's it about?

Jack is back, and this time he traded hockey sticks for a skateboard. The chimp is framed for something he didn't do, and because of this he ends up lost and alone in a big city. He becomes friends with Ben who is a shy skateboarding kid, Jack reveals he is a really talented skateboarder.

Thoughts?

Well, as I stated before, with it being made in 2001 don't expect to see crazy cool graphics. While the graphics and effects were all right back then, they are even better now. With that being said, this is a cute movie. Teaches us not to look at the exterior of everyone, and not to judge. It teaches us we can do anything we put our minds to. Now, not only did my son like skateboarding before, but now he is doing circles on our patio on his little mini skateboard as I type. He loves these types of movies, and I don't care what animal you put in there, he is gonna watch it! Me, personally, well I'm not to excited about this. I feel like all these movies, Air Buddies included, are over done. I mean, they are still trying to put out movies like this. Perfect example, Santa Buddies. Geez. When are they going to stop making these. There is a point when you watch a movie, and you see they just tried to hard to keep it going. One of those movies is the Vegas Vacation movie. I believe it is the last in the Lampoons Vacation series. It just looked like they tried so hard to get this movie to fit in with the others before it. Like they really beat that dead horse for all it was worth. Growing up, I loved Vegas Vacation. We just watched it earlier this year for the first time in a LONG time, and I realized it wasn't as I remembered. One thing I hated about that series is almost every year the kids were different. It was never the same two kids who played the kids. Ok, back to the original story - this movie. I just feel like all these movies are kinda out dated. They need to find a way to reinvent this so that kids today would go see these in a theater. Maybe if it were an animated movie, or even an animated series on TV, that may be better. My personal review, I'm over this movie. But, my son would give you a different review.

Both of these movies can be bought at Walmart now for $9.99 each. You can also check them out at Kaboom.

Berenstain Bears DVD review

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 23:29:00 +0000

-I received products in return for this post with my honest review. Please see my Disclosure page for more information-

I got the opportunity to receive some movies for my son. We received the Berenstain Bears DVD box set. It is the 50th anniversary edition, which includes 3 DVDs. The 3 movies in it are Celebrations, Homework Help and Bear Country. I can't believe anyone still sells these movies. I used to watch them as a kid, and I will be 27 later this year. My son, who is currently 8, never saw or heard of these. Then I told him that I used to watch them as a kid, and so did daddy. That made him interested, as we have introduced him to some old school cartoons. My husband introduced him to Inspector Gadget and Thundercats, and I've shown him cartoons on one of the Nickelodeon channels, when they have their 90's shows on. Shows like Angry Beavers and what not. We also watch some old school Cartoon Network like Animaniacs and Tom and Jerry. So anyways, we let him watch these, and I love that they are learning cartoons. They are cute, and fun, and teach something, unlike a lot of shows today.

My son liked it so much, he wanted to watch it again and again. I hope that some of the lessons instill something positive in him, and that he actually learns from these lessons, not just mindlessly stare at the TV lol. I also hope to pass these on to my daughter.

Berenstein Bears also teaches another language, French. Nowadays, shows either are in English, or English and Spanish. I like that it teaches French, because it isn't something that is commonly heard. At least not here in Arizona. Also, did you know that Michael Cerra (Superbad, Juno) is the voice of Brother Bear!? I had no idea! Nice to know though.

You can buy this box set at Walmart for $29.99.

You can also check out Phase 4 Films or Kaboom Entertainment for more information

Octonauts - Explore, Rescue, Protect!

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 02:04:00 +0000

*Disclaimer - I received products for review. Please see Disclaimer page for more info.*

We love the Octonauts in our house. Not only will my almost 8 month old start to bounce around when she hears the song, but my almost 9 YEAR old loves it too. The show is not only super cute, but teaches how to protect our oceans, which is really important.

I had the pleasure of receiving a few Octonauts toys that my kids got to enjoy and try out. Can I just say, they both loved them! The toys were great for boys and girls, which is perfect in my house seeing as how I have both!

Here is what we received.

All these playsets are available in the USA for sale. The magazine was a special feature that is available to my UK readers, but unfortunately not yet in the states.

I was really surprised to see how much we got. I literally thought we were only going to get a few things, maybe one playset, but this much!? Oh my. And can I add, these can be enjoyed in the water! So during bathtime with the baby we played with them in the water. It was fun for all of us lol.

Here is a the kids playing:

I think my son likes it a bit more then my daughter, but she will love it soon enough lol. She is very interested in EVERYTHING her big brother does. I love seeing their relationship grow.

This playset is very well thought out. It resembles the characters and gear in the show perfectly. We also love that on top of the large Octopod playset, there is a button, so you can sound the alarm! We love it. Bella especially loves that feature. One of the best parts for my son is that should he decide to take a bath rather than a shower, he can take it in the bath and enjoy it there too. The toys are all waterproof, some of them even change colors in the water. The smaller play sets have special features that only work in the water. Such as Barnacles going lower into the water by pressing a button on his Gup. There is also a shell with Tunip in it. The shell is "locked" and once it hits the bottom of the tub it opens and lets out Tunip! And then the other one with Kwazii has a treasure chest that has an eel like creature in it. The treasure chest floats to the bottom of the tub, and then magically opens releasing the eel!

I will definitely be on the look out for more toys from this line, my sons birthday is only a few months away. And while many may be thinking he looks a bit old to play with this - he is almost 9!!! But he still loves this stuff. I don't know if it is because he has a baby sister, or if it is because of his autism spectrum disorder (PDD), but he loves it, and that's all that matters!

The Octonauts can be watched on the Disney Channel and DisneyJR channels here in the USA. They have a website of their own (http://www.theoctonauts.com), and a Facebook page.

Get Uncommon: iPhone case review + giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 05:25:00 +0000

I recently had the pleasure of creating my own iPhone case with my sons artwork with a company I had never heard of, called Uncommon. So I uploaded the picture of a penguin my son recently drew. He got the idea to draw it on the back of the RoseArt colored pencils box, it gives instructions. I loved it so much, that it is what we decided to upload for the case for my iPhone. It shipped VERY quickly. I was not expecting it as soon as we got it, which was a nice surprise.

Uncommon is the perfect name for these cases. They are absolutely uncommon. The very definition of the word is unusual, "out of the ordinary, or different". I must say, my phone case is definitely uncommon. A fridge can only hold so many magnets, pictures and drawings. So why not put your kids on your phone case?! I can attest to the fact that I don't ever want to delete certain pics out of my phone. Even though they are uploaded to my computer, I want them on my phone so I can show people on a whim. But it takes so much space. With Uncommon, you can put your favorite picture on the case, and show it off to the world.

These are the pics of my case.

The case I got is called Capsule. It slides on
and is easy to get on and off. There are other
options available.

This is the case intact on my phone. I
thought I positioned the words so that
they aren't on the crack, but it is OK.

Another picture of his cute penguin! :)
It was so easy to upload and positon.

And how it looks from the front. I love it.

It was really easy to upload and position the picture. Although, I thought I positioned my sons name below the crack, it actually came out on it, but that isn't bad at all. Not only can you make your own cases, they do also have pre-made cases with beautiful designs. They have 4 different types of cases to chose from, including ones that are a bit transparent and you can see through it (in case you just have to show off that Apple logo). You can get a case for any Apple iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. So go and take a look.
My next case, will be this one of my daughter. It will be the same case I have now with my son.

These are a great gift idea for either the Mom in your life, or grandparents, or anyone for any reason! If you make one, upload the pic of your case in a comment (or link to it). I would love to see what you chose to make a case out of!

**Note, I have a charger from an older model iPod touch that I used to have years ago, and that cord does NOT work with this case. So make sure you use the charging cable that came with your device, as older models and aftermarket items may not work well with it.

Now for the giveaway!!!!
I get to giveaway one (1) $50 code to the website GetUncommon, and you get to create your own phone case for free! Awesome! How I would love to have another case for free, I am thrilled to be able to give you one! Please enter below on the Rafflecopter! Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

New Disclosure Policy via New FTC Guidelines

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 08:31:00 +0000

If you don't know, the FTC has recently updated their guidelines (again) on how bloggers and advertisers should disclose payments and product reviews. No need to dive into all the details, if you are interested you can check them out on the FTC website. I always tell you when I received something for review, or have been paid to talk about a product. I always give an honest opinion, that isn't changing.

I do have a disclosure for the entire site (see disclosure page here). I now also have to tell you on every post, or keep it on top of the post. So, not only do you see a disclosure above all blog posts, and in the center of every page, you also will see a banner at the beginning of a post when it contains a sponsored review, or a review of a product/service I received for free. If you click it, it will take you to the disclosure page. Sorry it isn't the prettiest, but it is what we have to do to keep receiving products. The sponsors/advertisers and companies who send products are also emailing us on campaigns to remind us about this new policy.

The banner looks like this:

So, bear with me for the next few posts as they are reviews! And I really do not want to have to post this on each post, but I have to... *sigh*

--Jennifer

Personalized iPhone cases B1G1 Free!

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 02:20:00 +0000

I got a case from Uncommon and let me tell you, my iPhone case is definitely uncommon! I have a post coming that I am going to put up that shows the details of the case and a review. But for now, you can get an iPhone case free when you buy one!

Valid only from April 22 - April 24. Use code MOMSDAY at checkout. iPhone cases only (all models).

This would make a great Mothers Day gift!

Click the pic below to go make your cases!

Genetically Modified Foods.

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 03:58:00 +0000

When I first heard about this, I thought, "Wow, we actually do this? It's allowed!?" And then to find out that things like GMOs can possibly be the cause for Autism, ADHD, and a million other issues... Well, it just scares me. I have always questioned what have I done, what did I do to cause my sons ADHD and Autism. It had to have been something I did. Here I find out it could have been what I ate during pregnancy. What he ate as he was developing. And that there is little I can do to keep my daughter, who is 7 months old, safe.

In animal studies, they have found that when they consumed GMOs, they had several problems including infertility, immune problems, accelerated aging, cholesterol problems, diabetes, and changes in liver, kidney, spleen, and the list goes on and on. Are you kidding me?! We see proof that these GMOs have harmed these poor, defenceless animals during testing, and yet we give this to our children?!

Granted, now I know that a lot of the organic fruits and veggies aren't really any different. You need to know where they came from and if that farm used anything on them. But there have been several news stories here on my local news that talked about it. ABC 15 in Phoenix, Arizona did a story with two or so other ABC channels across the country. They all sent organic and non organic fruits and veggies to a lab and found that there were still pesticides on some of them. Mainly those from other countries. They suggested stay local. I plan on going to the local farmers market to get some fruits and veggies one week. I just need to wake up early.

And as I am watching this documentary on GMOs, I found out that this toxin that is placed in corn that will rip open an insects gut if it eats from the corn, has been found in the blood of pregnant women, and in 80% of their unborn babies. This is sick. I can't.... Even soy isn't safe, and I drink soy in my coffee drinks from Starbucks since I am lactose intolerant (onset at the age of 21). To hear that only 30 years ago no one had the allergies and problems that we have today. Its pretty obvious where this has come from. Food shouldn't be harmful, it shouldn't make us sick.

Ugh. I'm leaving this post with this...... do your homework and do your research.
I'll update later after I finish this documentary.

Edit: You can view the documentary here: http://geneticroulettemovie.com/

--Jennifer

Update on Bella.

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:21:00 +0000

So I took her to the ER yesterday. She had a 101 fever, and has a double ear infection. Poor baby. They gave her Motrin as a suppository (in her butt) and gave her Zofran for the vomiting. she got drops in her ears for the ear infections. Poor baby. By time we left, she drank 4oz of Pedialyte, and fell asleep comfortably.

After we got home, she threw up a little more, but eventually was able to keep it down after taking the 2nd pill of Zofran (dissolves in the mouth). We have ibuprofen and amoxicillin for her to take for the next ten days. Today she had about 8oz of formula, and is not comfortably napping. My sister brought us some Pedialyte, which she drank a little of before falling asleep. She also has diarrhea. Poor thing. She is also teething with that lower front right tooth coming in.

But when she is awake, she isn't too cranky unless she is hungry or needs a change. Other than that, she is all smiles. Nice to see my baby back to her normal self. Well, off to eat some late lunch.

--Jennifer.

New language of mess

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 05:54:00 +0000

(This post is sponsored. The content and thoughts are my own.)

The new language of mess is coming from Clorox. They have a new Icktionary. It is for those words that you use to describe the messiest of messes. You know, the diaper blow out when the baby ate a new food, or that backed up toilet that had your kids toys, and other things, in it. Or that time when your kid decided to mix a few foods together that didn't belong together, just to see what it would look like. Yea, we have all been there! Those times call for new words. Gross just won't cut it anymore. neither will yucky. It's a new breed of grossness out there, and for that, we have the Clorox Icktionary.

The Clorox Icktionary is a dictionary of all these new words that moms have made up. It captures the "every-day over-the-top" situations that just about everyone can relate to. The Clorox Icktionary will also help you figure out what cleaner can help you clean the Applesauce off the ceiling fan.

The two words I submitted to the Clorox Icktionary were:
Goobs - unidentifiable grossness.
Uber-ucky - when something is super yucky.
These words are words I have used, mainly with my son. It explains some of the messes he has made in his almost 9 years, and I'm sure I will be using these with baby Bella soon enough. Some of her diapers have been goob diapers... Well, OK, uber-yucky too.

Thinking back to when Eric was a baby, OMG, it was crazy! He was such a typical boy! There was one time, where he pooped and decided he was gonna play in it. It was ALL over his crib! The sides, the mattress, HIM! Oh it was so gross! I can't even tell you how I cleaned it because I can't remember! I just hope Bella doesn't decide to do that. Eww. Its bad enough that right now she has a bit of diarrhea and that's just gross. But she is getting better, and hopefully that all stops soon.

The Clorox Icktionary features words of the week, so you can see words that others have made up, and while you're there, you can get a coupon for $0.75 off any Clorox product. You can also submit your own words, and learn how to clean up the ick. You can also interact with the words and play games for the chance to win a $25 prize!

Clorox is my go-to cleaning product for most things. Especially bad messes. I love the Clorox wipes, you can never have enough of them. I use them mostly for the counters, they work really good.

You can visit the Clorox Icktionary here (you can also click the sidebar widget to the right if you want). If you make up any words, comment and tell me what words you made up!

--Jennifer

You can like Clorox by clicking here:

(This post is sponsored. The content and thoughts are my own.)

Teething... Ear infection?

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 08:56:00 +0000

Tomorrow we will be going to a doc (probably urgent care since it's Sunday) to have Bella seen. Poor baby. I know she has her first tooth coming in, but she also shows signs of an ear infection. It sucks because my car is still not running at the moment (two damn sensors need replaced) and so I gotta have my mom take me and Bella in the afternoon.

She hasn't eaten much, but I have been squirting water in her mouth. I've been using one of her bottles with the medium flow nipple on it and squirting the water into her cheek area. When she has her binky on, I'll drop it in on the side through the hole (we have Nuk paci's for 6+ months). She doesn't like it all too well, but she needs some liquids in her! She did drink a very watered down 4oz bottle of apple juice. I actually managed to give her about 6 oz of it. Other than that, she doesn't want any formula. :( Poor baby. I hope she feels better soon. I don't remember Eric acting like this when he was teething.

Poor Bella. Sleep on the couch in only her diaper,
wrapped in a small, light blanket. One of the few moments
she slept without being on me. :(

I'll update once I know something.

--Jennifer

Update on schooling at home.

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 23:16:00 +0000

Some would like to say that what we are doing isn't home school. However, it is school at home, therefore it is homeschooling. My son is a student of Arizona Virtual Academy (AZVA) which is a K12 school. The curriculum is great, and his IEP is even getting implemented. It is great that we can work any time of day, and it is a lot less than what he would be in school for. It is nice that he can sleep in if he wants, and we can do school later in the day.

I would definitely recommend K12 to anyone who has a child that needs more time, more one on one or even needs an advanced/accelerated program. It really is a great program to be in. You can visit their website (www.K12.com) to see if there is a K12 school available in your area. I would also tell you to call and speak to an enrollment advisor as well. Granted, their job is to get you to start, but they are very helpful and can provide lots of information.

--Jennifer

Making baby wipes!

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 23:08:00 +0000

So in no way do I call myself a "natural" mom, or someone who is into naturals and being green and what not. While I do try to do my part, conserve energy, gas, etc, I am not exactly green.

Currently, my car isn't working, which is hard on us not being able to get what we need, when we need it. And I realized today that Bella needed wipes! She is really low on our last pack, and it didn't hit me till today. So, I posted on my Facebook about how it sucks not having a car when you need wipes. My friend then says "make your own".. And I'm like, how?! So my aunt then comments with a link to Blessed by Brenna where she talks about how she makes her own baby wipes out of paper towels, baby wash, baby oil and water. I thought, OMG I have all this! So, I started off trying to make my own! After about ten minutes, I noticed that the liquid mixture wasn't soaking up all the way, only about halfway. So I had to add a little more water/soap/oil mix. And BOOM it all soaked up. I haven't had to use them yet, but I can't wait to try! And the best part, they smell like her bath wash, Vanilla Oatmeal from Johnsons. Mmm. I love that baby wash. I am happy my aunt posted the link, and thankful that it was on Blessed by Brenna. Not only did I get a great recipe, I found a beautiful blog that I can follow :) The story is touching.

If you are looking to make your own wipes, check out the recipe on Blessed by Brenna by clicking here.

--Jennifer

Been busy but... (Some updates!)

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 05:08:00 +0000

I am trying to make an effort! I have had a crazy month, and I am just trying to catch up. Between the baby having her episode where she stopped breathing (scary, but all was well) on her 4 month birthday, and then just recently I was sick, I am just tired.

I've been taking a lot of work on some of the freelance writing groups I am in, even though the pay isn't super steady (I obviously have to claim the work), it is work, and it does add up - pretty quickly I might add. I like doing it, but I prefer the easier articles. Mostly because right now I am just so busy! But I'll take anything if I have the time to. I really need to focus on my main gig because I need to meet my weekly quota on that since it pays more.

On to the baby: Bella is doing GREAT! She is now over 14lbs (as of her 5 month appointment on 2/13/2013). She is back up to the weight she needs to be. But I also notice that she is halfway to the weight limit on most of her things! The swing, the bassinet... Sigh. Soon enough she will be in her own bed.. Ok, who am I kidding? I'm going to co-sleep with her. I did with Eric, but that was unintentional. I plan on getting the rail that goes under your mattress to help prevent the baby from rolling off the bed. She isn't rolling while she sleeps, but she will be soon I'm sure. Why are bassinets not for larger than 25lbs? Maybe it's just the one I got (Delta brand). Are there any that go larger? I mean, I have a crib for her, But I don't know when I'll be ready for her to sleep in her bed at night by herself. Naps are one thing. All night is a whole 'nother story!

On to my oldest, Eric: He is doing well. We had a change in meds because he was showing obsessiveness. He seems to be doing better now. I also decided to take a major leap with him...

Homeschool..

Ok, not like the kind of home school where I use my own money and buy curriculum. But the K12 Homeschool. Here in Arizona its AZVA (Arizona Virtual Academy). We just recently had conferences with his teacher, and as much as I love his teacher and his school, I had to make this decision. The teacher confirmed my fears: he wouldn't be ready for 3rd grade; mentally/socially. For those who don't know, he has ADHD and Pervasive Development Disorder (an autism spectrum disorder). He was held back in 1st grade so that he could catch up and get on grade level. And he did mostly... Except for reading. That is his major struggle now. So, while speaking to K12, they are keeping him at grade level with everything else since he is doing good, and adjusting his reading so that he can catch up. While Eric had an aide in his classroom, he would most likely not have one next year (according to his teacher), and that is scary. The classroom is proving to be too distracting for him at the moment. So we are doing this. I feel confident that this will help him, and so we shall try. We were able to log in a bit today and see how it all works. He isn't doing actual school work yet, the courses right now are for me to learn how to get around the system. He will be getting a computer in the mail in the next 5 or so days, and same with all the materials that we need (books, flash cards, everything!). I am so excited about this journey in our life!

Do you Homeschool or use K12? When did you start? Why did you start?

--Jennifer

Freelancer? Make some money selling your gigs/work

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 04:25:00 +0000

Gigserr is the perfect alternative to Fiverr for many reasons. Some of these reasons include the fact that you can earn more than just $5 for a gig. You can create a gig for $5, or up to $1,000. There are more categories offered such as Silly Stuff. This is great for freelance writers who are able to do more than just a $5 article. Many professional, experienced freelance writers won't take anything less than one cent ($0.01) per word. Gigserr allows writers to offer longer articles, or bigger jobs for the appropriate cost.

Gigserr also offers categories such as Gift Ideas, Bizarre, and Silly Stuff. This makes categorizing your gig that much easier. The Gigserr blog offers tips on how to sell your gig. Some tips include uploading a relevant image, have a description that is informative, but short, and to offer a quick turn around time. 

On Gigserr you can also trade gigs with another member. This is great for those who have new accounts and the gigs are priced the same. You can help each other attract new customers by giving each other a good review of the service. 

When signing up with Gigserr you should know you may not make a full time, or even part time income. However, you can make some extra money by doing what you know how to do. You can offer a variety of services on the site, from making videos in a certain costume, drawing a picture for someone, selling your homemade gifts, or even writing songs for people. The best part is you can price them for more than just the standard $5 offered at Fiverr. At Gigserr you can price them accordingly. 

Alternately, if you are looking for a specific gig, Gigserr offers the option to suggest jobs. You can type in what you are looking for and put how much you want to pay and someone who is qualified can see it and send you a message. Gigserr is the perfect alternative to Fiverr, especially for those who have had a not-so-great experience on Fiverr. 

Click here to sign up.

The 3 month breastfeeding hurdle…

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 01:58:00 +0000

I have come to notice something rather odd. A lot of women seem to have a major drop in breastmilk around three months. My baby lost a whole pound, and is still catching up. We are supplementing, I am trying to pump, and taking fenugreek, drinking mothers milk tea, and eating oatmeal. It just seems like a lot to go through seeing as how mothers did this for many years before now. Ever since man walked the earth, babies were nursing from their mothers. So why would your milk supply suddenly drop? Is it something we eat? Is it our birth control? The environment? All of the above?

I got back on the Depo shot at about 6 weeks post partum. And my doctor didn’t tell me anything about it possibly making my supply dip. I didn’t think it would. But sometime between the end of November and Christmas week, my baby lost a whole pound. Mid-November was her 2 month appointment, and she was 8lbs 11oz. But Christmas Eve I had to take her to urgent care (she had a cough, freaked out about RSV, and she got breathing treatments. We had to do them at home too for 2 days), her weight was only 7lbs 11oz. She was born 7lbs 1oz! I was concerned, and worried. So that following Friday we followed up with her doctor, and he said I needed to supplement. So I started to, and tried to pump. But nothing came out! It made sense now. I understand that sometimes if you don’t regularly pump that it can seem as if there isn’t anything there, but I’m telling you, something would have came out. I feel it would have, had there been anything there. So I figured out the reason. In the past 3 weeks since then, she has gained 3lbs! She (as of 1/16/2013) weighs 10lbs 2oz!

However, when I went to my OBGYN to get the next Depo shot, I said I wanted to try something else because I feel like it is the cause of my milk dropping. She said it would not cause that… I felt like I wanted to argue because I have heard from other breastfeeding moms, other doctors and even nurses that it can cause this! So why was my OBGYN saying it wouldn’t? I love my doctor, and I had a great pregnancy because of her, but I was confused.

Either way, I am on the “mini-pill” hoping that helps some. If it does, then I know that it was the shot! If it does not help, then it may not have been the shot.

At first, I was really upset that I had to possibly stop breastfeeding. But then I realized that I breastfeed her exclusively (with a few rare occasions) for 3 1/2 months! That’s much longer than my son, who only got to day two. My daughter got a lot from me, and I am proud of that. I also am torn between the two. I want to continue to a minimum of 6 months, but hoping for a year. But at the same time, formula feeding offers a freedom that I had wanted. It allows me to easily leave my baby with my husband and to go spend time with friends, or my sister, or just by myself. It allows me to work out and not worry about pumping or being home before she wakes again. It offers a freedom that I hadn’t remembered from when I had my son.

But breastfeeding is best, right? Breastfeeding is something I should strive for. I don’t understand why those who breastfeed exclusively do not understand that not everyone can continue. Not everyone can do it for as long. Not everyone can do it at all. Not everyone wants to. I want to, but if I don’t, I shouldn’t be thought less of. I shouldn’t be “shamed” by some other breastfeeding mamas. However, some breastfeeding moms are so consumed with it that they don’t think of those who have issues, or who have medical problems and need to take medications that may harm the baby if they breastfeed while taking it.

I think that those who advocate breastfeeding should understand that many want to, but can’t. And that we should be applauded for trying. And if someone choses not to breastfeed at all, they shouldn’t be shunned, shamed or looked down at.

Back to the reason for the post… Why does everyone's milk seem to go down at about 3 months? I even heard Snooki (yea, that one) stopped breastfeeding at about 2-3 months because it went away. So why does this happen?

If you have any advise, please feel free to comment and let me know! If you have an article or proof for why, then please share!

---Jennifer

Need a Vacation?

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Sun, 23 Dec 2012 22:51:00 +0000

OMG YES! I seriously need to get away. However, the first trip we have out of state the kids are actually coming with. Hopefully while we are out there we get to get away for just a little bit without the kids.

However, if you have $300 right now, you can get an all-inclusive four night stay at Villa Sol Hotel and Beach Resort in Playa Hermosa. That is in Costa Rica!!! This normally costs $1,395. But until January 7, 2013 you can get it for only $299! I wish I had that laying around. Maybe you can surprise your husband or wife, girlfriend or boyfriend with this fabulous deal!

Go here to get this deal before it’s gone!!!

Let me know if you take advantage of this. Share pics!!!

--Jennifer

Ten foot charging cable for Apple, Android and Blackberry

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Sun, 23 Dec 2012 22:45:00 +0000

Sometimes we realize that our phone cables are just too short. So, here is a solution! A 10 foot cable! Only $11, regular price is $29.99! That is a 63% savings. This offer is valid until 1/3/2013 at 11:59PM (local time). Offer available through this link: 10 foot charging cable.

Printable Coupons

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Sun, 23 Dec 2012 22:40:00 +0000

Here are some coupons =)

$3 off BIC Mark-It Permanent Markers

$3 off any two Triaminic Products

$0.75 off any one Odwalla Juice, Smoothie Drink

--Jennifer

FREE Whopper at Burger King

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Sun, 23 Dec 2012 22:38:00 +0000

Burger King has a coupon for a free Whopper when you buy a Whopper.
Print it out here
Free Whopper with Whopper Purchase

--Jennifer

Crest 3D Whitestrips: Review

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Tyree) — Sat, 01 Dec 2012 03:58:00 +0000

I received a VoxBox from Influenster. In t was a month of Crest 3D White Strips. I was excited because I had always wanted to try these.

At first I was a bit nervous. The box mentions that some people have had side effects like their teeth becoming sensitive, and I did not want that to happen, but I put them on and hoped for the best.

Now, let me say. I do not like them on my teeth! It did not hurt, it was not complicated, it was annoying. My teeth aren’t perfectly straight, and I am 100% OK with that, because they aren’t like super crooked or anything either. But I had the hardest time to get the strip to place under and onto the backside of my teeth. And then when I did get them done, it felt weird, it didn’t stick completely on the back, and was just annoying. Pretty sure I licked some of the peroxide or whatever whitening agent was in it. Also, it doesn’t tell you if you should dry your teeth ahead of time. No, not with a blow dryer! But like, dab a paper towel or something. I think you should! Trying to place the dang sticky thing on wet teeth seemed absolutely impossible! I felt like a crazy person.

Then when they are on… don’t try to talk! It feels so weird. It screwed with my speech – not that the strips did anything, but I was afraid to talk, hell, I was afraid to close my lips over my teeth! And I had to do this for 30 mins?! I felt crazy. So I did it while I washed my face/put weekly facial mask on, and took shower.

Also, the package doesn’t say how long after you brush you should use them… or how long you should wait to brush after using! It just says something along the lines of do not use directly after brushing… So like what? An hour?

The commercials make it all seem simple and easy, but it just didn’t feel as glamorous as it looked on TV. *sigh* what can you do ya know? It’s a commercial for Gods sake!

Anyways. So I was expecting this crazy transformation on my teeth. Not that they are bad or really discolored, but could definitely use some whitening. Well… I don’t know. Maybe I should have dried my teeth, maybe it should tell you when to brush after using, etc. Because I don’t see that much difference. I mean, yea, its maybe a tad lighter, but nothing to go jumping and spend $30 again next year on a box (yea, you should only use 2ce a year, anything more then you really need a dentist!). I also don’t feel the need to post a before/after pic, sing their praises, or anything really.

Yes, I do use Crest 3D toothpaste, so I thought that would give me some kind of secret edge…… nope.

This is my honest review. I hoped I could give you better news than this. And maybe I just applied it wrong? Who knows. I am happy that I did not sit here and spend out of pocket, because I would have been asking for my money back.

Do I think you should get this? Well, that would be based on you. Like I said, maybe I did something wrong. Maybe it will work for you. Maybe it won’t. I would def watch for a good deal with EB at CVS or a really good coupon from P&G in the Sunday papers (usually the first of the month).