Zensible Mama

Home Solutions: Rubbermaid New Clean & Dry Plunger Review and Giveaway

2012-05-31T03:00:00.001-04:00

Talk about perfect timing! Rubbermaid's Clean and Dry Plunger arrived on my doorstep the same day the wooden handle of my poor plunger broke! Ok you guys, who in the world would be so giddy with excitement to get a plunger? Yep. No one but me! I'm crazy I know. But hey, imagine getting a plugged toilet and you're without a plunger, you get the picture... And besides, this plunger is no ordinary plunger!

The plunger may look rather ordinary and common like the regular plunger we know but there is more to this plunger than meets the eye! Take a good look.

Plunger in Action!

And here's a short clip I put together to show you how the plunger works and how effective it is and what my overall recommendation is.

Now there's only one caveat. The coating is easily corruptible. To ensure it retains the coating, you have to make sure it doesn't get into contact with oils and refrain from touching it, or it will ruin the unique coating on the plunger. You can clean with bleach when needed. Product retails for $12.99.

Giveaway:
One lucky winner will win (1) Rubbermaid Clean and Dry Plunger.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

**By entering this giveaway, you release ZensibleMama.com from any liability in case of lost, unreceived sponsored prizes.

***Rubbermaid provided the product to facilitate this review and sponsored the giveaway.

Photologue: Famous Reptiles and Bird Rookery

2012-05-30T03:00:00.000-04:00

Entrance to Gatorland Orlando

Chester the Big Dog Eater - Giant Alligator 13 1/2 feet long and 1000 lbs.

Rare white Gator - 12 feet long and 800 lbs.

Crocs in the Swamp

Baby crocs and Heron

Egret in the Breeding Marsh

See more interesting pictures and videos inside Gatorland: Crocodiles and Alligators @Gatorland Orlando

For more inspiring photos, check these wonderful blogs: The Bonafide Life, Better in Bulk, Shanamama, From Dates to Diapers, Not Your Momblog, The Divine Miss Mommy, Colorado Moms, Rajean Blomquist, Rachel Ferruci, BrainFoggles, Zensible Mama and link your own photo stories.

Don't forget to check our Mobile Shots collections for more interesting pictures like the ones you see above! Mobile Shots Collections.

An Exclusive Sneak Peek Inside Disney's New Art of Animation Resort

2012-05-29T03:00:00.001-04:00

Ever get that overwhelmingly good feeling inside that's just about enough to make you burst with delight? Kinda like when you're boyfriend or husband surprises you with an exclusive Dooney and Bourke Disney bag - yes, I really do need to insert that in here and hoping my husband reads this and gets the hint - but you do get what I mean! The thrill of something new and exciting and fabulous. This is how I felt when I got an exclusive sneak peek inside the new resort at Disney world's Art of Animation Resort! You would too if you saw what I saw AND getting to do that before it even opened up to the public! Admit it, bragging rights is agreeably like getting an expensive bag at times. Not the same but close.

There's also a lot to be excited about this resort. Besides being it at Disney, on its property, with all the perks of being within the property, it is, well, NEW! Like having a new car, without the new car smell! And since Nemo Suites opens this May, first guests gets first dibs of the highly-decorative and themed resort rooms with all it's luxurious appearance and amenities! It's so new it's like breaking in a new car or horse! Best of all, the resort looks nothing like a value resort! WIN! I'm almost envious of the first occupants of those rooms. Ah joy!

This is a magic bed. Watch the video below to find out why!

Eitherway, not to leave you clueless about what I'm rambling endlessly about, here is an exclusive sneak peek inside these excitably new resort. Oogle and drool as much as you want. You're allowed!

Watch on Youtube: Exclusive Sneak Peek Inside Disney's Art of Animation Resort

Needless to say, I'm personally excited to experience Art of Animation as a guest and splash on that awesome pool like Ariel and maybe swim like Nemo? You bet!

Excited yet? You should be!

And my little bag scheming strategy? We'll see. I have to cross my fingers, toes, eyes and legs on this one. In the meantime, I'll dream...

**The private tour was provided by Disney World as part of the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration experience**

Remembering Our Veterans And Fallen Heroes

2012-05-28T03:00:00.000-04:00

photo courtesy of National Memorial Day Parade

Zensible Mama joins the millions of citizens in this country today to pay tribute to our war veterans and remember our Fallen heroes who fought for and gave this country its freedom. THANK YOU!!!

My good friend Rich McFadden of Good Day radio show is taking part in the monumental annual parade in Washington DC. And if you can't join the parade in person like me, the parade will be live streaming today, Monday, May 28th at 2pm.

You can watch the series of webcasts here: National Memorial Day Parade Live Stream

A BLESSED MEMORIAL DAY TO ALL.

Crocodiles and Alligators at Gatorland Orlando

2012-05-24T03:00:00.000-04:00

White Gator - rare creature in the world!

Orlando has become uniquely identified with Disney World that I became oblivious to the other parks and attractions in the area that are equally worth visiting. I obviously have been so Disneyfied that I never thought of any other theme parks when in Orlando or the surrounding areas like Kissimmee. But discoveries were in order while on an assignment to write for Visit Kissimmee.

Gatorland was one of those great finds we were quite pleased with. And my daughter currently into anything reptile-related, visiting the theme park was a real treat. What's even more exciting was the opportunity to be in close proximity to live alligators and crocodiles without the threat of being eaten alive!

Now that's a perk. A little taste of Crocodile Dundee. Now, besides the usual reptilian displays, our visit was also equally educational. One thing that impressed in me was how to tell a Crocodile from an Alligator and setting eyes on the rarest creatures in the world - the White Gators! See picture above.

Some areas of interest:

Gator Jumparoo Show - great fun for both kids and adults with a little comedy thrown in.
Breeding Marsh - haven for alligators, crocodiles and different bird specie in Florida including Herons and Egrets.
Upclose Encounters - A what's in the box? kind of show that puts you at the edge of your seat but dosed with fun and laughter.
Swamp Walk - A self-guided tour through a live swamp with wild natural inhabitants depicting the wetlands of Florida.
White Gator Swamp - A rare glimpse at the four leucistic Alligators aka White Gators on display for a limited time. It is also believed that "its piercing blue eyes are believed to have the ability to command good fortune to those lucky enough to make eye contact with them!"
Gator Gully Splash Park - A great pit-stop for your little ones and you to cool down when the heat is high. Make sure to bring your swimsuits when you visit the park!

From the site:

"Hundreds of programs have been filmed at Gatorland, from the alligator scenes in the blockbuster movie Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, to documentaries from National Geographic, the Discovery Channel, and the BBC, even TV series such as American Choppers, The Pet Psychic, and Swamp Thing." - Gatorland

This place is also a great place for Zip-line enthusiast. If you're in Orlando or Kissimmee area, it would be a shame not to visit this reptilian-themed park! We truly enjoyed visiting it ourselves and hope to visit it again when we get the chance. And we'll make sure to bring our swimsuits next time :-)

Photologue: Me and My Pandabrella

2012-05-23T03:00:00.000-04:00

With Elmo and Zoe at SeaWorld Orlando

If there is one thing in my possession that almost always attract attention when I utilize it, it would be my Panda Umbrella! It attracts a lot of attention, I'm almost jealous!

But on the other hand, I'm actually riding on its cuteness factor. I can't count how many random pictures were taken of me because of it. There are instances where I was stopped for a quick picture or strangers always points out how cute it is and some are brave enough to let me know. So I flaunt it!

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Inside Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden at DisneyWorld

My sidekicks getting a piece of the action at T-Rex
Downtown Disney Orlando

Want your own Panda Umbrella? Check it how and where to get it here: Panda Umbrella

Don't forget to check our Mobile Shots collections for more interesting pictures like the ones you see above! Mobile Shots Collections.

A Sneak Peek at SeaWorld's Shamu Show

2012-05-22T03:00:00.000-04:00

Shamu Show One Ocean

It has been a sweet treat to go back to SeaWorld after eight years and relive a special memory that I had when I first visited the theme park. The park hasn't change as much but there were few notable changes that made the park a little different than when I remembered it. Some were great, some a little disappointing. Yet overall, it made perfect sense why the park made such changes to thrive in the industry.

If you haven't been to SeaWorld, check this short sneak peek video to see the main highlight of the park just for you!

Watch on Youtube: Sneak Peek of the Shamu show at SeaWorld

And make sure to watch out for Elmo and Zoe around the park, you might get lucky and get a photo opp with them like I did. Aren't we just cute?

**SeaWorld provided two complimentary media passes to access the park and collect materials for several cover stories and personal experience at the theme park**

SeaWorld After 8 Years

2012-05-21T03:00:00.000-04:00

Inside the famous Shamu Show

Seeing myself within the confines of SeaWorld after 8 years almost gave me the chills. And the burgeoning emotional onslaught of nostalgia that overcome me, brought me to a few tears and I was a little choked up. It's one of those episodes in your life that just means a lot, it holds so much sentiments. You get me, do you?

Shamu Rocks Show

Eight years ago, literally on the dot, I was there technically a newly minted new bride, where my hubby and I were consummating our MUCH-delayed honeymoon. See my emphasis on the much? I was also practically an FOB (Fresh Off the Boat - as how they "lovingly" call migrants around these woods) getting used to the new culture around me and above all that, I just found out, I was a little over 8 weeks pregnant! Holy schmokes! See, it would get you too, right?

And now eight years after.

Holding my hands is that little teeny weeny peanut who almost did not want to abandon the comfort of my poor tummy and the fun of torturing my organs, now walks alongside me inside this theme park. Aw...tissues please!

Eight years.

We are Family

Her 8th birthday. It was not planned. We were out traveling. I was out attending and speaking at a conference. The opportunity presented itself so we took it! I guess it was meant to be. But it was a wonderful surprise no less.

SeaWorld after 8 years:

With the Cast of A'lure after the show

The Dolphin Cove "petting" area has been greatly minimized. A huge portion of it is now dedicated for a paid-feeding experience for visitors wanting a closer encounter with the Dolphins. Much to the chagrin of young patrons hoping to have more space to "pet" and touch the mammals within the pool.

A'lure's The Call of the Ocean was a new show that we all enjoyed. Think Cirque de Soleil on a smaller scale. It's short and sweet and filled with chuck-ful-o'-fun! You even get a photo opp with the performers after the show which was a sweet treat!

All-day Dining Deal was a lifesaver. With little one in tow, you bet, that incorrigible demand to be feed or hydrated was ever-present! Good thing, there were enough restaurants participating in the entire park to feed you when you need food.

Sea Lions Tonite is another great show that we all enjoyed and had a good laugh out of. It is a parody of SeaWorld shows and attractions. The night we were there, they were spoofing Shamu show.

**SeaWorld provided two complimentary media passes and we covered our daughter's ticket**

A Beary Happy Bearthday Celebearation

2012-05-18T03:00:00.000-04:00

Waiting to be stuffed with love

My little cub finally got to celebearate her birthday at her most favorite toy store in the world! Build-A-Bear Workshop! After traveling a lot and being on the road during her bearthday, this day was truly worth all the long wait for her. Her friends. And us. We were all looking forward to it!

Putting on the finishing touches on everyone's cute animals

You should know that this is not the first time we've had her bearthday at Build-A-Bear Workshop. The first one was so good, we have to do it again! And there are great reasons why we do it there:

We don't have to do any work - I just sit tight and hang loose while the Party leader takes care of the battalion of young cubs for us. Entertaining and making sure they're having fun while I gab with the parents. Win!

Full control of my budget - I love the flexibility of being able to set my own budget. You can start from a minimum of $10/bear and work your way up if you want to add accessories to the animal. Just ensure you reiterate this to your party leader so she can advise your little guests of their options or limits.

Everyone leaves happy - The greatest thing about the whole experience is each guests goes home with a sweet treat! It totally takes care of the goodie bags but a lot grander!

Sharing the love for Build-A-Bear Workshop - We are proud to be able to share the fun and thrill of celebrating a birthday there and why we do. Needless to say, we've got some converted in the process!

Want to see how it's done? I've put together a video just for you! Take a look.

Watch this on Youtube: How To Celebearate a pawsome Bearthday

I don't have to tell you that we had a pawsome time because we obviously did and you can easily see it! :-)

**Build-A-Bear Workshop covered the Birthday party as part of being one of their 15 Blogger Friends and for being an Ambassabear**

Road Trip From Charlotte NC to Disney World in 6 Minutes?

2012-05-17T03:00:00.000-04:00

Watch on YouTube: Charlotte NC to Orlando FL in 6 minutes?

Imagine an exhausting 9 hour long drive and finishing it in 6 minutes! Incredible is it not? Yeah I know, if only it was possible! But it can be. With a little help from technology and a little elbow grease, here's a little time-lapsed video I put together during our road trip to Charlotte NC to Orlando FL all the way to Disney World to get you to experience what it's like to journey in less than 6 minutes! Brace yourself. It can feel like a roller-coaster ride without actually being in one and smoother! Divine! Thanks in part to the all-new fully-loaded Toyota Sienna 2012. The Chariot for the road warrior champion!

**Toyota USA provided the car for this trip as a part of being a member of the Toyota Women Influencer Network (TWIN) through its extended Ride and Drive program**

Photologue: I Spy and Got Mickeyfied

2012-05-16T03:00:00.000-04:00

Mickeyfied at Disney Social Media Moms Celebration

Mickey Pumpkin

Mickeyfied Shrimp

Botanical Mickey

Mickey Hose

Don't forget to check our Mobile Shots collections for more interesting pictures like the ones you see above! Mobile Shots Collections.

DisneySMMoms 2012: Royalty, Strollers, Marketing And Pizza!

2012-05-14T03:00:00.000-04:00

with @Maritramos inside Disney Social Media Moms Conference Hall

Did the mention of Pizza in my title made you just a tad hungry? Well, you should be! This pizza has been a big hit at this year's conference, everyone just couldn't get enough of it or him, for that matter, it was almost insane! In a good way, of course. Yes, it's needless to say that this years' conference is definitely an interesting mix! One that made the conference a little more, let's just say, unforgettable!

Meg Crofton, President of Walt Disney World officially opening the conference

And in true Disney fashion, magic and enchantment abounds throughout the entire conference experience. Each session leaves you feeling wanting more! And hope it could be longer... yet the takeaways can be priceless and grand especially if it speaks directly to you...

@AmyJoMartin of @DigitalRoyalty and @LisaDruxman of Stroller Strides

The Royalty

It won't be Disney without the presence of Royalty! It was then befitting that Amy Jo Martin of Digital Royalty graced us with her presence and encouraged us to find our WHY and reiterated that humans connect with humans NOT logos! - AMEN to that!

The Stroller Goddess
Moms + Babies = Stroller. Makes perfect sense that the Stroller Goddess is in attendance, right? Well, Lisa Druxman of Stroller Strides made sure she gave us a great workout. She even made Amanda of @HighImpactMom plank in front of the stage and who was totally awesome doing it too!

@PeterShankman of HARO

The Marketing Dudes
HARO fan? Yes! Peter Shankman was a delight to listen to. He insisted that we focus on creating amazing stuff for the sake of creating amazing stuff and in turn people will tell us how amazing we are! And when do you know when you've changed your status quo? As soon as we have haters! What a radical idea but it sure have a hint of truth to it.

Chris Brogan came back for the 3rd year and I don't think I heard him say any swahili (or some african) words this year.

And last but not the least.....

@Ramon_DeLeon of Domino's Pizza

The Pizza Guy
Who doesn't love pizza? Everyone I know loves it! And Ramon De Leon? He's as loved as the pizza he sells. He totally rocked the house and he was an oasis of great ideas that was totally inspiring! He was also the most-kissed man in this conference!

Ok, for the record, I didn't get to kiss him (Woe is me, right? Though that would have been a real challenge) but I did manage to get a picture with him and it looked cool nonetheless! He's a force to be reckoned with!

This year is quite special for me compared to last year, being that, this time, I was able to experience Wild Africa Trek! (you'll want to hear all about it!) And though this year is uniquely different than the last - it can never be the same - it's always full of fun, thrill and excitement. One that always makes you look forward to the next year. And with a stroke of luck, I may see Mickey again next year! Crossing fingers, toes, legs and eyes!

But for now, thank you Disney. Thank you Disney Social Media Moms Celebrations for making me a part of this wonderful conference three years in a row...always proud and enriched to be a part of it!

**Disney sponsored me and my family by providing a deeply reduced rate accommodation package**

What Does Motherhood Means? Moms Speaks Out

2012-05-12T03:00:00.000-04:00

Mother's Day is this Sunday, May 13 and we are delighted to have real life moms who are very influential in social media and in their own special ways, share their insights on what being a mother means to them!

Rajean Blomquist

"I have always looked at being a mom as huge responsibility because I'm helping to mold someone's future best friend, sibling, spouse, employee, mom or dad. Some days I feel very proud of my work in this area , others I realize I still have a lot of work to do, but it is the most fulfilling, frustrating, beautiful job I'll ever have. I try to take the best parts of what I adore about my parents and sprinkle a bit of me in my duties. I pray I'll get good references some day." - Rajean, Rajean Blomquist

Jessica Cohen

"Being a mother, to me, is about giving my children have a childhood full of possibility and wonder while doing what I can to help them become kind, well-adjusted, strong, confident adults." - Jessica Cohen, Found the Marbles

Tania Reuben

"Being there to love, hug, encourage and parent to my children...every single day." - Tania Reuben, Pure Natural Diva

Amy Kronstedt

"...Means being there through all the exciting learning stages, and though the good, the bad, and the totally rotten. They will always be loved unconditionally by me! - Amy Kronstedt, Grinning Cheek to Cheek

Katja Presnal

"...Devoting the largest part of my life to bringing up three children and giving them best foundation for their lives as possible by teaching and guiding them and showing different cultures and people." - Katja Presnal, Skimbaco Lifestyle

As for me, Motherhood is like a Chinese Dish - Sweet and Sour! I'm sure you'll easily figure out why that is!

And what do these Moms (me including) want for Mother's day? Build-A-Bear Moms have some interesting answers here: What Moms wants for Mother's day - Check it out! They might just be similar to yours!

What about you? How are you celebrating Mother's day this year?

Natalia Flores

"Have some R and R and to have my little one close by!" - Natalia Flores APR, Charlotte NC

Me? I'm taking it easy! With a permanent crown in place and two teeth extraction, you bet I'm taking it easy... Yeah, perfect timing. I know I'm crazy, even my dentist agreed! What can I say? I'm talented that way!

Happy Mother's day to all of you Moms out there! Oh, please feel free to send some Ice cream this way. I encourage you!

Toyota Sienna 2012 Went To Disney To Meet Mickey

2012-05-11T03:00:00.000-04:00

Toyota Sienna 2012 at Disney!

Yes, I sure gave this fully-loaded Toyota Sienna 2012 a ride of its life by taking it to Disney with me! And I, on the other hand, had a fun and smooth ride in return, WIN! This is the second time I've ridden a fully-loaded Sienna and each time I fall more in love with it. There is just a lot about it that's, well, lovable!

Proud "scars" of a true road warrior!

For the record, I will say that we are now officially in love with the Sienna due to some of these great reasons:

GPS feature. It helped us get out of tough knots and kinks out in the highways quite a few times.
Satellite radio. Not once did we bother bringing our favorite music CD's or MP3 players. There was a lot of stations to select from and ones that we liked too.
Roominess. I just love the extra room and comfort that I get from it that it felt awkward getting back into my car after being in the Sienna for a while.
Camera and Rear Parking Assist Sonar. It got us spoiled. All we need was look at the double-purpose monitor when backing up especially in to our driveway and it beeps when we're utterly close for comfort to another object. Now that is totally cool!

My list doesn't stop there. You know I can go on non-stop if you let me, but what I'll say is that the Sienna is as magical as being at Disney! You just can't help but fall in love with it! We may be (very) close to deciding on what our next car is really going to be with all the blings we love about it. And I, is almost convinced that we have totally evolved into the next Swagger Wagon family! And that's NOT a bad thing at all!

The Toyota Sienna 2012 Silver during our road trip to Ft. Lauderdale and Kissimmee

As I've said before, what's not to love about this bad boy?

**Toyota USA provided the car for this trip as a part of being a member of the Toyota Women Influencer Network (TWIN) through its extended Ride and Drive program**

EcoStore New Honey-Almond Shampoo and Conditioner Review

2012-05-10T03:00:00.000-04:00

If you know me (well enough) and follow my blog (regularly), you probably know by now that I'm a big fan of Green products and anything ALL natural! What can I say? I want to stay healthy or at least achieve a rather healthier lifestyle which is not a bad idea of course! Though I'm not at a point of being called a green freak (yet), being green can be fun! Especially when you're not constantly factoring in the price of green products! Yeah you know what I'm saying.

With that being said, I'm not permanently tied in to a certain brand unless it's one that works for me, I love it and aligns with my requirements irregardless of price. I've got a few of those in my list but that doesn't stop me from "experimenting" with other similar brands out in the market today. I'm loyal to a certain brand of shampoo but I also find it beneficial to switch brands once in a while. My scalp usually tells me when it's time! Does that happen to you?

I was quite ecstatic when I got the news that Eco Store was launching a new product line of hair care. I've tried other Eco Store products and was pleased with them. I was also at that moment of switching up brands so it was perfect timing getting the shampoo and conditioner at my disposal. I was quite intrigued with the Honey & Almond formulation and tried the combo and here's what I love about it:

Scent - don't you ever experience getting this whiff of a familiar scent and it transports you back in time? This product did it to me. It brought me back to my childhood days and the scent of my favorite shampoo then. Exhilarating to say the least.
Moisturizing property of Shampoo - I kid you not, my daughter's hair was the true test. Her hair gets tangled easily, it is long, thick and hard to comb without the intervention of a conditioner. Now this shampoo was a miracle-worker! It made her hair soft, feel soft and best of all, I didn't even have to use the conditioner on her hair and yet I didn't have any problem combing her hair!
No nasty chemicals - I won't say more. But I'll say that I was very happy that my daughter can use it and also works for her.

To tell you the matter of truth, my daughter took full dibs of the shampoo and conditioner because she liked it too much. I don't blame her. And in those fleeting moment that I was able to try them, I concur that her reason for liking them were substantial.

The only thing I found a little odd was that I didn't find the presence of an actual honey and almond in the shampoo and conditioner's list of ingredients. Not sure if that was by design or was manufactured that way or it was written in a scientific name too gibberish for me to understand. Nonetheless, I would recommend this as a great alternative for your regular shampoo.

Products featured are 13.5fl and retails $6.50 each and can be purchased online at EcoStoreusa.com

**EcoStore USA provided the products to facilitate this review. All opinions expressed herein are based solely on personal experience unless otherwise stated.**

Photologue: A Peek Inside Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

2012-05-09T03:00:00.000-04:00

The majestically enchanting display of creativity and botanical artistry welcomes guests at the entrance to Epcot, with the iconic Mickey greeting overly-eager fans who can't wait to experience the annual Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival!

The Festival runs from March 7 to May 20, 2012 and features HGTV Designers and Gardening Experts with delicious refreshments at the Festival Center (located between Universe of Energy and Mission: SPACE). Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Thrilled to be there and see it this year!

Don't forget to check our Mobile Shots collections for more interesting pictures like the ones you see above! Mobile Shots Collections.

Toy Review: Best Flower Bud and Happy Nappers Play Pillow

2012-05-08T03:00:00.000-04:00

Best Flower Bud Doll and Igloo to Penguin Happy Nappers Play Pillow

Toys with creative characteristics are usually the ones that stands out and get our attention. These are the same unique properties that The Best Flower Bud Doll and Happy Nappers toys from Jay At Play possesses. One that I thought was simply interesting and made them relevantly unique all on their own.

Best Flower Buds Doll
They're what I call small, cute and fun version of Jack-in-the-box! Though this one pops out from a nifty girly-pink pot! When this doll is hidden inside its pot, it looks like an unassuming little flower in a pot but once the head peeks out, the sweet fun begins! I like that it's versatile. From being a display item to a plaything. Nothing can be so neat as that! The quality of materials used are also good. Let's just say that this little thing now has a permanent spot on my desk. That is if my daughter is not playing with it! - Product featured is 9 inch and retails $9.99 at Toys R Us.

Happy Nappers Play Pillow
This is a 2-in-one reversible pillow. It's a toy and a pillow. And that's what I love about it. It's also a toy appropriate for kids at any age if you ask me. Comparing it to the more popular Pillow Pets, I think this has more edge on the creativity side, though I would say the design and quality of pillow pets would be more upscale, but let not that deter you from liking this especially when you have younger kids who also love music! This toys' got it. My only suggestion is, I wish there was a volume control since the music can get a bit loud. Overall, I like this product and it is durable enough to use as a travel pillow! - Product featured is the Igloo to Penguin and retails for $14.99 (current sale price online only - reg. price $19.99)

If you love toys that are unique, creative and doesn't cost and arm and a leg, these are great gift ideas or toy selections for your own kids!

**Toys were provided by Jay at Play to facilitate this review. All opinions expressed herein are solely based on personal experience unless otherwise stated**

Movie Review: Marvel's The Avengers - "A ROLLER COASTER RIDE OF AWESOME"

2012-05-07T03:00:00.000-04:00

photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures

We are happy to have our good ole' matey Nigel reviewing The Avenger's Movie for Zensible Mama and sharing to us his bountiful nuggets of wisdom about the movie. For all you big fans out there, you might just find this review pretty exciting and something that will definitely will make you look forward to watching the movie!

Genre: Action-adventure

Rating: PG-13

U.S. Release date: May 4, 2012

Running time: 143 minutes

The Review:

From the opening sequence till the obligatory, wait till the FULL credits roll moment, the Avengers is pure joy and a ROLLER COASTER RIDE OF AWESOME.

Without giving too much away, this masterpiece of visual candy, great scripting and intertwining plot and sub plots, opens with the return of Loki, Thor’s estranged brother.

From that moment on, the action rolls thick and fast as the team of Avengers is found in their various places, assembled, and subsequently battles both their own demons and the common enemy.

For fans of the comic book series, there are even those childhood questions posed and answered, somewhat, such as who would win a battle between Iron Man and Thor, Thor and Hulk, and even Hawk and Black Widow, to name a few.

Then there are the copious amount of one liners and visual moments of mirth delivered with aplomb, from Tony Starks response to Captain America’s “What are you without the armor?” to the Hulks response to Loki’s demand that the Hulk bow before him. The latter bringing howls of laughter from the packed theater.
The action is fast paced with no lags in the movie at all; humor that had the whole theater laughing together and moments of suspense where you genuinely felt this may be the end only to find it was just a precursor to bigger thrills ahead.

Even the 3D effects were appropriate, nothing cheap or ill placed so if you get the chance to see it in 3D, take that opportunity.

The story was complete and should satisfy even the most discerning fans of the Marvel genre with no obvious plot holes or “mistakes” and the reaction from the audience at the ending after the first set of credits said it all in terms of the excited anticipation most felt at sighting the character who will undoubtedly be the sequels antagonist.

The Avengers delivers all that you would expect and more from what will be the franchise film of the year, grab a ticket and strap yourself in for the ride, you will be thankful you did.

Nigel Harrison, is a 42 yr young father of two, who used to live from the land down under and now resides in Charlotte, North Carolina. He enjoys many things in life, family, bowling, Spartan runs, working out, shooting the breeze, movies, being a business operations engineer and food. He would probably be diagnosed with ADHD if still in school today. He is an aspiring writer, but can't get focused enough to stick to one topic, though he is writing a book encapsulating his 26 years+ of work experience which hopefully will be out before the world ends.

The Magic of Disney Beyond Disney - Facing my "Demons"

2012-05-05T03:00:00.000-04:00

Mickey - my travel buddy

The thing about spending a magical time in a magical place like Disney is that you have to go back to your own reality one point or the other. No way around it... Just like my reality check immediately the next day we got back...

Hubby to me: "You are no longer in a hotel (Walt Disney World) so replace the toilet paper when it's gone! Don't just leave it there empty!" Yep, hello reality...

But somehow the magic of Disney didn't end at Disney for me... really... In spite of my obvious realities which was a headache that put me down for the whole day after we got back (stress settling in so fast already) and my scheduled (scary) appointment with my Dentist for an initial procedure to prep me for my permanent crown the day after, something truly magical happened to me.

No, the Tooth Fairy didn't magically appear and paid me Millions of dollars for my tooth - I wish - but...

Rather, just like Tim Gunn, I too, have a fear of driving. To be more detailed (not to be too TMI), driving in the highway. I can drive anywhere else just not the highway. I get really scared. An acquired phobia brought about by a past accident. As you have guessed, IN the highway.

But today, I have to drive myself almost close to 60 mins round trip via the highway to my dentist. Face your fears right?! Or "demons" whichever is appropriate. It was not by choice but by a need to. Yes, I was scared.... very scared... If you must know, I almost peed in my pants just thinking about it.

What helped me???

Mickey. Weird but true. Believe it. Having him in my passenger seat against my Minnie Bag calmed me down and helped bring back wonderful memories of those magical moments I just had the previous days. I'm proud to say, I survived the drive and I survived the procedure with a little mishap. Of course, that's another story.

Yes, this is a true story where Disney's magic goes beyond the park itself. Thank you Disney. Thank you Mickey... Thank you Disney Social Media Moms Celebration...

Yep back to reality...And I know I just have to share this story... What helps you face your "demons"?

Recap on the Disney Social Media Moms conference will soon be posted. Stay tuned. - Maricris

Zensible Mama Special Guest at PRSA Charlotte Coffee Chat

2012-04-28T03:00:00.000-04:00

Mark your Calendars!

I always say nothing beats having coffee in the morning. And to top that with a good chat ... pure win! This May, I'm the special guest of Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Charlotte's Community Coffee Chat and I'm a little giddy with excitement and a little anxious because this is the first time I will be joining the chat! Though I do look forward to meeting members and chatting with this prestigious group!

Mark Your Calendars.
The chat is an exclusive for members-only event on Thursday, May 10, 2012 at 9:30AM and will be held at Sunflour Baking Company (their menu looks delish!). If you're a local member, I hope you'll join us!

Huge thanks to Natalia Flores for getting me on board. Gracias Amiga!

On The Go! 5 Make Up That Works

2012-04-27T03:00:00.000-04:00

BEFORE
Mickey Ears and Tiaras!

I'm at a conference for social media savvy fairies right now and timing is crucial - you know the drill. You stay up late and wake up early the next day. No time to dilly-dally! Just like the Fairy Godmother would say. You have to keep up with the schedule or you'll have Mickey crackin' the whip on you! Now that would hurt. Ooh did I just hear you mumble Fifty shades of Grey. Oh you naughty! But nope we're not going there. We're going to talk about how to spiffy up and lookin' pretty in no time. You'd like that, won't you? Kinda like a quickie for make-up! Yes I did just say, quickie. Because it is!

You probably won't believe this, but there is actually a way to put make up on in less than 20 minutes, Ok 30 minutes tops - if you have the right tools! uh-huh. You can be zooming in and out of that bathroom looking all fabulous like Superwoman or close. The key is quick! I know no one will look at me or oogle at how pretty I'm at this conference but hey! I need to be pretty... for me and quick. And so do you! It's also good for boosting your confidence. So for those who says putting make-up on is not necessary? Shame on you!

Now, I'm probably sounding off to a wall here. No one probably even cares about this but heck, let's unveil these Top 5 Make Up that WORKS!

1- E.l.f Studio Eyebrow Kit - Toss the eyebrow pencil that makes you look like the joker pu-lleease. This kit does the trick! An eyebrow shaper and a filler powder duo to give you that pretty arch and a brow to die for! Applying is also quick and easy! Retails for $3.00

2- Elf Studio Eyeliner and Eyeshadow Stick - No messy powder trouble. I call this glide and go! The soft gel liner glides smoothly with intense color and perfect for creating hot smokin' eyes! All in the comfort of one stick or two! Retails for $3.00

3- Almay One Coat Dial Up - I love this mascara. It gives you 3 choices of ooeey-gooeey-goodness depending on the occasion at hand. I usually use number 1 for quick prepping up on normal days and number 3 when I need to make an eye statement! Retails for $8.49 {Amazon}

4- E.l.f Studio Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 - What I love about this? It doubles up as concealer and foundation to give you that evenly-colored skin tone. Best of all, it's got sunscreen! WIN.

5- Clinique Blush Wear Cream Stick - Dab and go. No powdery mess and no brush to deal with. It's got intense color and easily blends in to create that natural-looking rosy cheeks without looking like a clown! Retails for $21.00

Finish up with your favorite face powder and lipstick and voila! You're done. Quick right?

Oh la la! AFTER

What make-up can you not live the house without? Well, while you're thinking about it, I've got a date with Mickey, don't tell Minnie. And YOU! Stay pretty...

**Not a sponsored post. All products featured are owned and used personally and highly recommended**

Where is Zensible Mama?

2012-04-26T03:00:00.000-04:00

If you're seeing this and staring right at my shirt in the picture, then I'm most likely on the road en route to the happiest place on earth where Pixie dusts abounds and Mickey Ears are known to be hidden! Or I'm already there and thrilled like a little girl at the adventures that lies in store for moi'! Yep, Zensible Mama and her traveling ZCrew is yet on another road trip and is looking forward to tons of fun and adventure in the next few days ahead of them. As for me, I'm going to take this magical journey as a mini-me-cation so if you don't hear from me soon enough, just imagine me on a long, extended date with Mickey! Or lost in Peter Pan's world and definitely needs no rescuing! So, see you later alligator...

Photologue: Signs of Wild Life Around My Yard

2012-04-25T08:21:00.000-04:00

Squirrel soaking in the April Showers - Where's Dug when you need 'em? Squirrel!

5 hungry baby Robins waiting for their daily sustenance

Bunny playing peek-a-boo

Don't forget to check our Mobile Shots collections for more interesting pictures like the ones you see above! Mobile Shots Collections.

Zensible Mama Visit Kissimmee Featured Blogger of the Week

2012-04-24T03:00:00.008-04:00

Are you a big fan and believer of the cliche' hitting two birds with one stone? Well, I just had this phenomena happened to me while I was in Florida a few weeks ago. I was there for the uber-exciting She Streams conference in Fort Lauderdale and also was on assignment as the upcoming guest blogger and travel writer for Visit Kissimmee! What a delight to be able to do two things at the same time. It was on it's own a one heck of an adventure for me.

It was hard work though but it was also an experience worth remembering. To be able to write and be featured at Kissimmee Convention and Visitors Bureau official blog as well as being able to feature local establishments and individuals in the community who deserved recognition, are to me, priceless! Good Karma if you will.

My fun-filled and excitable posts are currently "on display". Head on over and check me and my posts out! If you look close you might just see the ghost alligator in there! And maybe a few worthy travel tips here and there.

In the meantime, I'm heading back to Florida, this time in Orlando for Disney Social Media Moms Celebration where I was lucky to be invited back, third year in a row! Wohoo! Here's to more adventure for me...And you! Stay tuned for tons of fun and pixie dust-filled updates! You might just get a reward...Hmmm...

New Purple Hello Kitty From Build-A-Bear Workshop

2012-04-23T03:00:00.000-04:00

Purple Hello Kitty by Sanrio - New at Build-A-Bear Workshop

Purple is one of my favorite colors and Hello Kitty is one of my favorite brands growing up in the Philippines. Can you see how perfect the Purple Hello Kitty is for me? It sure is. I'd say I'll never be too old for either purple or Hello Kitty! Ever.

But of course, there's a slight variation to my situation now. I have a daughter who shares the same affinity to both which means I get the pleasure of enjoying ownership of the Purple Hello Kitty with her. Though she of course, gets more play time with the Kitty and establishes ownership of it close to 100%! Yup. Can't be helped. The little one always gets first dibs! And I love it that she loves it just as much as I do! Enough that it was the only stuffed doll that traveled with us during our recent road trip to Florida!

My daughter was inseparable with the doll and held it close every time she falls asleep while she is in the car. I thought that was really sweet. One particular touching moment was when we were on our drive home to Charlotte and she wasn't feeling well. She had the Purple Kitty strapped with her on the seat while she sleeps, even up to the point when she wanted her Mama sit next to her for some mama comfort. Precious!

What we love about the Purple Hello Kitty:

Unique color - perfect choice if I must say so!
Embroidery on Paw - The word LOVE is embroidered on it's left leg paw with the "O" in the image of Hello Kitty!
Color of Fabric on Paw - I like that the fabric used is vibrant and is rainbow-colored.

The doll is fun and trendy and is truly adorable! Best of all, my daughter likes it as much as I do! It's a doll totally made for girly girls, even the girly grown ups... and that's for sure! Oh and add that's it's got a pretty nice Spring color too! Purple the color of the Royals - so me! - Ok just kidding.

**Build-A-Bear Workshop provided the Purple Hello Kitty to facilitate this review and for being one of their 15 Blogger Friends**