Confetti Krispie Treats.. Perfect For a New Year's Party

Using just three simple ingredients, you can make this yummy variation of the classic Rice Krispies Treats.

I call them Confetti Krispies Treats, because they look like regular Rice Krispies Treats with confetti in 'em and it just sounds more festive... I'm a creative genius, I know. It is my burden and I must bear it alone, along with being painfully beautiful, unamusingly rich and effortlessly socially eloquent. 

 

 

I digress. (a lot, ask my husband)  

 

What You Need:

1/4 Cup Butter

5 1/2 Cups of Mini Marshmallows

5 1/2 Cups of Fruity Pebbles(ish) Cereal

  

Directions:

Melt butter in a large pan, over low heat. (Don't get hasty and turn the heat up, it will scorch when you add the marshmallows and ruin the whole batch, just keep your panties on and let it melt slowly)

When the butter is melted, add the marshmallows to the pan and stir 'til they are completely melted. 

Add the cereal to the pan and stir 'til all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Pour mixture into a well greased 9x13 pan and smooth out with the back of a spoon. I find it works best if you spray the spoon with some non stick spray.

Let them set for a couple of hours before trying to cut 'em. 

Store in an air tight container or Ziploc baggie for maximum freshness.

 

These are so easy to make (and eat) and are always a hit whenever I make 'em for the kids.

If you're really crafty and adventurous (I am neither), you can use cookie cutters and cut the treats into fun shapes, but the kids probably won't appreciate it or even notice, so why bother?! 

Mazel Tov!

 

How To Make Reindeer Food

Reindeer food is a simple, fun project that is perfect for a lazy winter afternoon.

The kids will really enjoy making it and you can also use this as an opportunity to open a dialogue with your kids about the recent tragedy in CT.

 

The ingredients for making reindeer food are things you probably already have around the house...

 

 Cellophane bags (found 'em at the dollar tree) Cheerios, Oats, Glitter, and for extra sparkle, I added some holiday themed table scatter I found at Michael's.

 

 

One of my favorite things about this fun craft is that kids of all ages can pitch in and help, since there are no scissors, heat, or other potentially dangerous items involved.

 There are no specific ratios as far as ingredients go, just add as much of each as you have on hand. You really can't mess this up.

 Add a scoop of the reindeer food to the cellophane baggie, tie it up with some ribbon & attach a cute little notecard like this one.

 

The end result....

 

Start a new family tradition this year, make some reindeer food with your little ones.

Happy Holidays!

 To You and Yours

From, 

Me and Mine!  

Homemade Coconut Chicken Nuggets Recipe

With the hustle and bustle of the Holidays (and everyday life in general for that matter), we (by "we" I mean "me", but I feel better if I place others into this group too)  often opt to feed the kids convenience foods... Cereal bars for breakfast or preservative laden dinosaur shaped microwave chicken nuggets for lunch. 

Moms are always looking for ways to feed our kids good quality food without spending all day in the kitchen and this recipe accomplishes just that!

I have come up with the perfect recipe that both kids and adults will love and the best part... you can actually pronounce all the ingredients!

What is this amazing new recipe I'm talking about, you ask?!

 

Coconut Chicken Nuggets!

Yes!

Coconut Chicken Nuggets!

 

 

This recipe calls for simple ingredients that you probably have on hand, but if not, no worries as it is very versatile.

 

What you need:

1 Lb Ground Chicken (or turkey)

Mrs. Dash (you could also use jerk seasoning for a nice kick)

Onion Powder

Garlic Powder

Celery Salt or Powder

1/2 to 1 Cup of Coconut. (You can omit this if you want)

Panko Breadcrumbs

Coconut Oil (For pan frying)

Directions:

 Mix all ingredients (Minus oil and breadcrumbs) well in a large bowl, adjust the spices to your personal taste.

 

 Roll the mixture into 1 inch balls and flatten out slightly between your hands into a nugget shape. 

 

Coat the nuggets in the breadcrumbs and panfry in the coconut oil for 2 minutes on each side (give or take a few seconds, use your own judgement)

 

You can also bake the nuggets in the oven on 350 for about 30 mins or 'til they're cooked all the way through. Just follow the directions above and put the breaded nuggets on a rimmed baking sheet and spray the nuggets with a bit of nonstick spray. 

 

To brown them, turn the broiler on for the last minute or two of cooking and turn them as needed, but watch them carefully so they don't burn. Serve 'em up with your favorite dipping sauce & ENJOY!

 I personally think honey mustard goes great with this particular flavor profile. 

Yield: Approx.  25 nuggets (depending on how large/small you make them)

There you have it! 

Coconut chicken nuggets that the whole family will devour.

These nuggets will freeze well so you can make a batch over the weekend,  pop 'em in the freezer and then serve 'em to the little ones all week long without feeling like you're just feeding them junk.   

 

FREE Santa Video for Kids

With Micah being old enough to understand who and what Santa is, I was very excited when I got the chance to check out the Portable North Pole.

PNP is a holiday favorite of parents everywhere which offers customized videos, letters and phone calls from Santa.

PNP offers lots of fun Santa stuff for kids.

From videos, phone calls, stickers, coloring books and even an *interactive letter.

Here's some more info about all the products available from the PNP.

 

Portable North Pole’s standard Santa’s Video (Suggested Retail: Free)

A FREE personalized video message from Santa Claus, filled with magic and exciting discoveries for your loved ones. Includes a brand new story and a sneak peek at never-before-seen North Pole locations!

Portable North Pole’s Downloadable Santa’s Premium Video (Suggested Retail: $6.99)

Santa has your children on his good list and he has taken the time to send a message of holiday greetings! Little ones will delight in their direct, personalized premium video messages from Santa Claus, featuring their own photos and personal details. Premium downloadable videos include more than five minutes of Christmas magic, a clip of Santa's riding on his sleigh and even a personalized Christmas carol!

Portable North Pole’s Santa’s Phone Call: (Suggested Retail: $3.99 for one call or $6.99 for three calls)

Santa has a very important message for your loved one! He will pick up the phone and call directly to deliver his personalized message. Santa’s call will last approximately two minutes and you can choose between 14 message options.

Portable North Pole’s Santa’s Interactive Letter (Suggested Retail: $19.99)

Santa will write a one-of-a-kind personalized interactive letter sprinkled with a pinch of Christmas magic! Available in Red or Green, each letter is printed in color on soft double-sided, first grade quality paper and includes up to 10 personalized items about your child or loved one.

*Exclusive web access (webcam required) will allow the child to experience:

·        An virtual reality feature confirming that the letter was sent from Santa’s village post office

·        A facial recognition feature that scans Santa’s records to confirm the child made is on the nice list

·        A personalized premium video viewable online

Portable North Pole’s Santa’s Nice List Certificate (Suggested Retail: $8.99)

Santa will go over all the personal information provided to make an official PNP customized certificate for your loved one to hang on their wall. The one-page certificate features Santa's official foil stamp and is personalized with the name, age, hometown and photo of the child.

Portable North Pole’s Personalized Christmas Stickers (Suggested Retail: $5.99)
Santa's will create a colorful set of Christmas stickers for your loved one to keep as a fun souvenir, customized with the child’s name. The set includes 12 different stickers, each customized with one name.
Portable North Pole’s Personalized Door Hangers (Suggested Retail: $6.99)
Santa’s elves will craft a festive door hanger for your loved one to hang on their bedroom door. Two messages available are available: (“Santa’s #1 Fan” and “On the Nice List”) and are printed double-sided.

Portable North Pole’s Official Christmas Book (Suggested Retail: $24.99)

Santa's elves will create a one-of-a-kind Christmas book based on the personal information provided about your loved one. The book features 25 color pages and a soft cover. The story will be personalized with the child’s photos and up to 50 personalized items integrated into the story.

Portable North Pole’s Official Christmas Puzzle (Suggested Retail: $12.99)

Santa's elves will prepare a fun and festive puzzle using a photo and the name of your loved one! Available in two themes: “Merry Christmas” and “Keepsake.” The puzzle, which features 20 rigid cardboard pieces, is recommended for ages 3 and older.

Portable North Pole’s Personalized Letter (Suggested Retail: $14.99)

Santa will write a one-of-a-kind letter for your loved one based on the personal information provided. Available in red or green, and printed in color on soft, double-sided, first-grade quality paper, each letter is personalized with name, age, gender, hometown and photo; up to 10 personalized items can be included in the letter.

Portable North Pole’s Christmas Coloring Book (Suggested Retail: $7.99)
Santa and his elves will craft a fun and festive coloring book especially for your loved one, customized with the personal information provided. The coloring book is approximately 20 pages, features a soft cover and is personalized with the name and photo of the child.

Portable North Pole’s Placemats (Suggested Retail $10.99)
Santa’s helpers will create a personalized Christmas placemat, ensuring your loved one will think of you every time he or she sits down to the table! The soft plastic placemat is printed single-sided with the child’s name and photo and features rounded edges. Four messages available: “I Love Santa,” “On Santa’s Nice list,” “Santa’s #1 Fan!” and “Santa Believes In Me!”

Portable North Pole’s Personalized Christmas Carols (Suggested Retail $2.99) COMING SOON!
Santa and his elves have a great ear for music! They're in the studio now recording a personalized Christmas Carol just for your loved one. Downloadable Christmas Carol is available as a MP3, 160 kbps, stereo and runs approximately two minutes.

Portable North Pole’s Personalized Christmas Ringtone (Suggested Retail $2.99) COMING SOON!
Santa and his elves are so tech-savvy! They're busy recording a one-of-a-kind ringtone especially for your loved one. Downloadable Christmas Carol is available as a MP3, 64 kbps, Mono and runs approximately 20 seconds. The ringtone is compatible with all major mobile devices.

Portable North Pole’s Mobile Applications (Suggested Retail $2.99 to $3.99) COMING SOON!
For iPhone, iPad and Android systems, the newly updated app includes access to premium personalized videos, an interactive Advent calendar, a call from Santa and other surprises that will delight all season long.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/PNPSANTA

Follow us on Twitter: @PNPSanta

Best of all, as a part of the PNP's Christmas outreach program, 5% of  the sale price of every PNP product sold, will go directly to affiliated children's hospitals across the US, Canada, UK, Ireland and France.

Get your child's FREE Santa message now, by going to the Portable North Pole website. 

  Disclaimer: I was provided with one or more of the above mentioned products to facilitate this post.

 

 

Build a Bear, Build a Friend, Build a Memory

Build a Bear has been a part of our lives since Kaylee was old enough to know what a Build a Bear was.

I remember the year she got her first one.

She saved some of her money and her Grandma made up the difference.

Her Grandmother took her to the mall, Kaylee picked out her favorite one, it was white. 

She picked out her favorite outfit, several times I'm sure.

She found just the right shoes to match her little cheerleader dress.

She decked that little bear out, head to toe in the cutest little outfits.

It was so sweet to see how much she loved that thing.

I don't remember seeing her without it ever. 

 

I truly believe in the power of furry friends. 

I remember when I was a kid I had a stuffed unicorn.

 I can't remember her name, but I do remember taking her with me everywhere. 

I would brush her mane and cover her up at night so she wouldn't get cold. 

I believe that having these kinds of friends can teach little ones about compassion and how to be kind to others.

I definitely don't think it hurts to start building these characteristics in kids very early on.

Lord knows we could use more compassion in the world!

Do I think Build a Bears could end wars across the world...

I can't prove it, but it's not a bad start.

Kaylee is all grown up now, but I am so happy that I can now share Build a Bear with Micah.

 

 

I was so excited to see that there was a Grinch in this year's Holiday collection at B.A.B.

 He even has a heart that lights up three times.

Micah watched the Grinch for the first time this year and he loved it!

 

 

 

I love how Build a Bear has adapted through the years and added even more unisex or boy specific choices.

 

Another one of my personal Holiday favorites, Rudolph, is also available at the B.A.B. workshop this year, along with his friend Clarice.

 

 For the first time ever, B.A.B. is offering a treat for all you Hello Kitty fans. Gingerbread Hello Kitty is resonably priced at only $23 and you can choose from tons of great outfits to dress her up in.

These are just a few of the adorable holiday items available at your local Build a Bear Workshop. 

Can you just imagine the look on your child's face when they wake up to see that Santa has brought them their very first Build a Bear?!

Yes, he will get all the credit, but inside, you will know the truth.

Don't have a B.A.B.  near you or can't get out to shop? 

No worries! 

You can order your favorite Build a Bear online.

 

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the above mentioned products to facilitate my review. I was not monetarily compensated for this review nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review.

Thank God For Boogie Wipes!

You can definitely tell it's almost winter.

The squirrels are hiding their nuts, there are Santas and bell ringers everywhere you look, they have snow up in the mountains, I see new Christmas tree lots popping up on every corner and then there's boogers... lots and lots of boogers.

 

Starting with the oldest and ending with the youngest and everyone in between, we have all officially caught the crud.

 

The sight of the Kleenexes soiled with copious amounts of nasal secretions, mixed with the scent of a weekends worth of dirty dishes piling up in the sink would probably be enough to knock a normal person down, but not me... not because I'm just that tough, but because my nose has been stopped up for four days straight. 

 

Sure I have fleeting moments of smell/taste, but they are infrequent and short lived.

 

Luckily, I've had some help.

Between the two of us, Midlife Daddy and I have been able to keep the little one from escaping, starving, killing and/or maiming himself or anyone else, wearing the same clothes more than one day or write on the walls.

 We weren't quite as successful in keeping him from crumbling up an entire serving of Goldfish crackers onto the carpet... Sometimes You have to pick your battles when sick.

It never ceases to amaze me how much energy a sick toddler can have. Me, I just want to lay down and wave the white flag, but not a toddler. They seem to have super-human powers when sick, or maybe it's just that he can sense that I'm weak and wounded and he is just toying with me, like some sick, twisted, toddler version of cat & mouse.

 

Being sick SUCKS!

Especially when your husband is sick too, because it has been scientifically proven that a Man's cold is four times worse than a woman's cold.

 Something about our DNA or something. 

It was on the news, my husband told me, it came on last night when I got up to blow my nose for the twenty seven hundredth time.

On the plus side, I know I definitely have a job waiting for me if Rudolph gets drunk and flakes out on Santa again this year... (It's a well known fact he's a lush, but nobody likes to talk about it)

My nose is so sore and red from using sub-par "Kleenexes", it's not even funny!

I, being the good Mom that I am, used all the good ones on the baby, who I'm sure didn't even appreciate the selfless act I had bestowed on him. 

... I digress...

After about day two, it was getting critical. I was down to using toilet paper on the baby, and kitchen paper towels on myself. I thought to myself...

 "How cool would it be if there was a tissue that was soft and a little bit moist, kinda like a baby wipe, but not quite as wet, something to wipe the baby's nose (and mine too) that won't be so rough and dry"

Then I thought...

 

"Wouldn't it be great if there was someone here to fix me some soup"

 

Then I went back to my initial thought, and remembered there WAS something like that. 

 

I had received some Boogie Wipes products in the mail about a week or so ago, but hadn't used them yet.

I hurried to the bedroom where I keep all my blogger review goodies, I opened the box and lo and behold, with choirs of singing angels, fireworks, glitter and the whole nine yards, there were the Boogie Wipes.

There were two different scents, fresh and grape, but I thought the little one would like the grape best.

So I took one out and proceeded to corral Micah into the living room, onto the couch, so I could wipe the boogers that had escaped his nose.

He squirmed and wiggled, in typical fashion, as to not have his nose wiped again, or just 'cause he thought it was funny to see me cry, either way, he fought me.

I explained to him that it was not gonna hurt and told him it smelled like grapes, his interest was piqued, he came in closer to smell the wipe and that's when I got him.

One quick swipe across the nose and I got it!

 The boogers that had just moments before been adorning that sweet cherubic little face, were now safely trapped in the Boogie Wipe...and there was no wailing & gnashing of teeth or crying (from me or him). 

I am officially in love with the Boogie Wipe!

These wipes smell so good, especially the grape one, it smells just like grape Hubba-Bubba Bubblegum. The wipes are soft and just the right size to do the job with one wipe, so you're not wasting them. The wipes are made from all natural saline, so no worries of harsh chemicals or parabens. They even have an unscented wipe coming in 2013.

Boogie wipes "Save the Sleeve" campaign is a fun, interactive way to teach kids that it is not cool or OK to wipe your nose on your sleeve. You can learn more about this fun campaign by visiting...

...Save the Sleeve...  <---

There you can do all kinds of fun activities with your child and they can take the clean sleeve pledge and get their very own "I Saved My Sleeve" FREE badge kit. 

Boogie Wipes are available online at tons of stores nationwide, including most Target, WalMart, Babies R Us, and Kroger stores.

Be on the lookout for their new Cotton Candy scent, coming soon. (That reminder was mostly for my benefit, I am a cotton candy scented stuff junkie, I can not wait to try these)

Boogie Wipes come in several sizes and buying options. For the home daycare, or teacher, they have a nice package including... 2 Ninety count canisters (fresh & grape), 2 thirty count packs (fresh & grape),50 samples with coupons and 1 classroom poster. This is available to professionals only and can be ordered by visiting... LittleBusyBodies.com . 

 

The nice folks over at Boogie Wipes want you to be able to see how awesome their products are, so they're giving away 2 thirty count packs of Boogie Wipes to one lucky reader.

I am glad to announce that this contest is open to residents of the USA, Canada and Australia. 

Check out the easy Promosimple form below to get your entries in.

GOOD LUCK!!!

   

Disclaimer: The nice folks at Boogie Wipes provided me with product to facilitate this review. I was not required to publish a positive post. My opinions/experiences are my own and yours may differ.

Little Green Trike Shoe Company (Formerly Squeakers Kid's Shoes)

Being a review blogger has it's advantages, sometimes. 

I am lucky enough to have first access to reviews of some of the newest, best and most useful products on the market. 

So when I recently read a fellow blogger's review of Squeakers shoes, I knew I had to have some for Micah.

I emailed the company and they were nice enough to send me a pair to check out for myself. 

After looking at their website, I chose my favorite, emailed them with my choice and size and waited for the sqeuakers to arrive.

 

When I got them I was super excited to try them on Micah and watch his face light up as he squeaked around the house with his new squeakers on. 

Yes, I said Squeak around the house.

Squeakers shoes are made with a built in squeaker in the sole of the shoe, it is placed in a way that promotes a proper heel to toe stride... and it is just plain fun for the little ones.

 No worries Moms, the squeaker is easily removed for those times when you need a quieter shoe. 

Simply slide it out and store it for later, and for those of you (us) out there who tend to lose small things, they include an extra pair of squeakers in the box.

 I love how these shoes have the look of laces, with the ease of velcro closures. (Probably designed by a Mom)

The squeaker is conveniently placed on the inside facing sole of the shoe, to be as inconspicuous as possible.

It was something like the scene in the old "Frosty the Snowman" cartoon, when he starts moving after they placed the hat on his head.  As soon as I put those shoes on his feet, he started strutting around the kitchen, listening to his new "rubber ducky" shoes, as he so affectionately refers to them.

He had walked the entire length of the kitchen, back and forth, for about ten minutes, when I realized exactly why the squeakers were removable. 

I decided to do a "test" and removed the squeakers from the shoes... just for testing purposes, of course, and he completely bugged out!

After a small meltdown (me, not him), I put the squeakers back in the shoes, took three deep cleansing breaths and went to my happy place.

After about two minutes, I had completely tuned them out and all was well again.

 

Joking aside, I really do love these shoes.

Yes, the (removable) squeaker can be a bit annoying at times, but the amount of joy I got from seeing him stomping and dancing around in his new squeakers far surpasses any little noise coming from the shoes. 

On the plus side, you will NEVER lose your child as long as they're wearing their Squeakers... Glass half full!

On the down side, they're horrible for playing hide and seek... Glass half empty!

 

Squeakers are available in girl's and boy's sizes 3-10 and are available in fifty or so styles, which differ from season to season.

They also offer adorable matching hair bows and removable shoe bows.  

Makes me miss the days when my daughter was still a little bitty thing.

The pair of shoes I received seemed to run a bit small, so before ordering, I suggest you check out their handy dandy measuring chart.

 

 Micah usually wears a size 7, but the size 7 I received was a hair too small, so I contacted my Squeakers rep, who was more than accomodating. 

I received my shoes at no charge, for the purpose pf this review, but I was still treated with a prompt and courteous response, as they would've treated any paying customer, even though the reason for return was mine.

Having worked in customer service a good part of my adult life, knowing how some companies handle returns, I really appreciate when I get excellent customer service.

Squeakers was founded by a couple of Moms, so that might have a little bit to do with their having great reps too.

I can't say enough about my affection for these adorable shoes and this company.

  sneakers, Check out Squeakers' website for a full selection of 

 dress shoes, 

  sandals and 

  boots (stompers)...

Any of which would be perfect for that adorable new Christmas dress or suit you just bought for the little one.

Squeakers is also a proud partner of Soles4Souls, a non profit charity that donates shoes to kids and grown ups in need.

How can you not love that?!

Squeakers can be found online and at brick and mortar stores in select cities or on Facebook and Twitter.

If you see something you like, order now! 

In celebration of the new year and their name change, Little Green Trike Shoe Company is having a HUGE sale.

They are offering 60% off on all Stompers and Sophisticates shoes.

Check out their website for more info.

Disclaimer: I received the above mentioned product to facilitate this review. I was under no obligation to publish a positive review. My opinions/experience is my own and yours may differ.

 

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Mickey and Donald have a Farm

In anticipation of the December 11th release of "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Mickey and Donald Have a Farm", Disney has released exclusive clips and activity sheets for your little one to enjoy.

Check out this fun activity sheet...

Or watch an exclusive clip...

 Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post.

Begin Again Toys (Review & Giveaway)

Being a Mom is hard work.

We have to do laundry, do dishes, cook food, clean up spills, kiss boo boos, find lost items, break up fights, sign permission slips and give sage advice to tender young minds... all usually before lunchtime.

Since becoming a Mom, I have become a master in the fine art of finding ways to squeeze in a few minutes for myself here and there. 

My favorite is the old "Wanna go play in the tub?" routine. 

 

Note: This method usually only works with the two year old, the eighteen year old just finds it kind of creepy.

 

It is my favorite,  because I can actually accomplish two things at once.

One, I can get the baby clean, and two, I can bring my laptop into the bathroom while he's playing and get a little bit of work done... 'til he starts splashing water everywhere causing me to jump up (slowly mind you, I'm not as nimble as I used to be) and pull a groin muscle, while trying to protect my trusty sidekick (my computer).

 

I digress.

 

Where was I?! 

Oh yeah, bath time!

 

 I recently had the pleasure of working with a really fun toy company.

From the second you click on the Begin Again webpage, you know this is not your ordinary online toy store.

Their website is so whimsical and fun. It kind of has an old "general store" feel to it. 

The toys are categorized in a unique format, based on the acronym, "A WISH".

 

*A - is for the artist. Creative artistic play develops imagination and gives a sense of the world we live in. This is where you can find creative arts, music toys, and more.
W - is for the writer. Children are natural storytellers and these toys help develop communication and confidence. Here you can find role play and character playsets.
I - is for the inventor. The Inventor loves to learn, explore, and build. Find learning games, exploration kits, construction, and science fun here.
S - is for the sportster. Exercise for the body is important of all kids. Here you can find outdoor toys, sporting games, ride-ons, and more.
H - is for the hero. Kids love to save the day. This category is all about heros, adventures, action figures, and wheels fun.

*The BeginAgain workshop is proud to introduce the first collection of ideas inspired by the world of Benjamin Barlowe.  Mr. Barlowe wrote about 5 distinct styles of play that children engage in daily. His journal entries detail the whirlwind way children bounce from one play pattern to the next.  He describes days with crayons everywhere, action figures in the couch and under the table, soccer practices, dance classes, dress up parties, bath time, and stories before bed....WHEW!

Micah, our resident toy tester had his pick of anything in the collection and he chose from the "HERO" section.

 

The bathtub ball is made of plant based, all natural rubber and is dishwasher safe... Hallelujah!

This bathtub set is so cute and fun to play with. It includes two sharks, an octopus, a diver and a reusable ball, that actually holds all the toys when your little one is not using them.

I am usually very wary when buying tub toys, because of the nasty problem of water getting inside them and growing mold, but with the open design of the ball and toys, I don't foresee this being an issue. Dry them thoroughly, before putting them up and I think they will be fine, or if in doubt, throw 'em in the top rack of your dishwasher... Easy Peasy! 

This would make a really cute present for any child in your life, especially one who is into animals, the ocean or one who fancies him/herself an explorer. 

For more details about Begin Again Toys, check out their website or Whole Foods stores nationwide.

The nice folks over at Begin Again Toys have generously allowed me to offer one of you lucky readers a Bathtub Ball toy, like the one I received.

Check out the easy entry form below to get your entries in.

 

Disclaimer: I received the above mentioned products to facilitate my review. I was not monetarily compensated for this review nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review. My opinions are my own and yours may differ. Adventures of a Midlife Mommy is NOT responsible for prize shipment.
*Taken from the Begin Again's website.

Happy's Christmas Gift

Happy's Christmas Gift

By: Geoff Parker Sr.

Happy is a sweet, helpful pup who gets himself into tons of trouble when trying to deliver a special letter to the post office.

Join Happy on his adventures to the North Pole, after he gets stuck in Santa's mailbag.

After going to the post office to mail his letter to Santa, Happy accidentally gets stuck in the outgoing mailbag... destination... 

...NORTH POLE!!!

Though his experience starts out a bit rocky, it quickly turns into a full blown North Pole adventure, with elves, Santa, presents and the whole nine yards.

I loved reading to Micah about Happy's unfortunate mishap.

 Happy is a sweet, lovable character that children as well as adults will love!

This book is very well written and wonderfully illustrated, it even keeps Micah's attention, all the way through... most times, and the times he won't sit still through the entire story, we look at the pictures while he gives me the "Cliff Notes" version of Happy's Tale.

This book has quickly become a holiday favorite with my family, and I have a feeling yours will love it too. 

Check out Happy's Coloring Contest 

 “HAPPY’S KIDS”

CHRISTMAS COLOURING CONTEST 2012NORTH AMERICA

HOW TO ENTER:
Go to the Happy Tales Publishing website www.happytalespublishing.com , click on to the
2012 Colouring Contest’—USA/CANADA -- and download the entry form/pictures. We offer
three different pictures. Enter one, two or all three. Only the best one will be considered.
Colour inside the lines to make a neat bright and cheerful picture. No help in the colouring is
allowed from others.

NOTE: Entrants should click ‘Like’ on the Happy Tales Publishing Facebook site
so that they can learn of the contest results.

Once the picture is completed make sure the entry form at the top of the picture is
completed with Printed Name, mailing address, telephone number or email and correct age.
Put the picture[s] into an envelope and mark the outside and send to:

Happy’s Kids Christmas Colouring Contest
C/O HTP Services LLC, 232 Seavey Road, Pittsburgh PA 15223 USA

CONTEST ENTRY: FREE
ALL ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED BY MIDNIGHT, Saturday, DECEMBER 15 TH, 2012.

Happy Tales Publishing is a division of Parker Limited

AGE GROUPS: [A] 5 and under [B] 6 and 7 years [C] 8, 9 and 10 years

PRIZES: There will be three prizes in each age group. Additional prizes may be provided if
the quality of the entries and number of entries warrant it.

One copy of ‘Happy’s Christmas Gift’ in English Hard Cover plus
Happy Toy ....plus one copy of the Bilingual English/Spanish edition
in Soft Cover.

One copy of ‘Happy’s Christmas Gift’ in English Hard Cover plus
Happy Toy

One copy of ‘Happy’s Christmas Gift’ in the Soft Cover Bilingual
version in English/Spanish edition plus Happy Toy.

ALSO....All contestant names will be put into a hat for a blind draw
for two special prizes:
One copy of the New “Happy as a Fox’ Book in Hard Cover English
One copy of the New “Happy as a Fox’ Book in Soft Cover bilingual English/Spanish

All Winners will be notified on Facebook and prizes will be mailed
during the week of December 17th, 2012.

Disclaimer: I received the above mentioned products to facilitate my review. I was not monetarily compensated for this review nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review. My opinions are my own and yours may differ. Adventures of a Midlife Mommy is NOT responsible for prize shipment. 

Kidz Gear Headphones Review and Giveaway!!!

 

Those of you who have been following my blog for a while, or those of you who know me outside of the interweb, know my boys are not at all close in age. 

Steven is 18 and Micah is 2... Yeah, I know, I was surprised when I found out too! 

Even with their great age difference, my boys love to hang out together... and by "hang out", I mean that Steven aggravates Micah until he is tired or until I break it up.... it is so heartwarming to see them together.  (Sarcasm fully inferred)

The one thing that I have noticed that the boys do have in common, despite their age difference, is their love of music.

Steven will share one of his earbuds  with Micah and they will listen to music together, some of it totally inappropriate for a 2 year old, I'm sure, but until I can get the big one to like Yo Gabba Gabba, I guess it'll have to do. 

The only drawback to this brotherly bonding time, is the volume I have heard Steven listening to, at times. I have explained to him that his little brother likes his hearing fully intact and that he would need to turn it down, he obliges... 'til Micah is gone and then it goes right back up.... which is a totally different blog post for another day.

Far be it from me to stand in the way of brotherly fun (which also buys me a few minutes of quiet time in the process). So instead of banning the music listening sessions, I decided to go around the problem... 

...Enter... Kidz Gear...

"Kidz Gear is grown up performance, built for kids"

Kidz Gear volume limiting headphones have been a Godsend around here. Now instead of just hoping that the boys are listening to their music at a decent level, I can be sure.

 

  With the Kidz Gear splitter, I can let Micah and Steven both enjoy their music, at different levels, at the same time. Steven plugs in his earbuds, Micah plugs in his Kidz Gear headphones and they're set.

The headphones come in five super cool colors and are adjustable, so they'll fit (al)most everybody, even grown ups (I know, I tried them on to check the level of the music). I chose the green ones and Micah loves them. I often have to hide them or be subjected to constant requests for "More more Yo Gabba Gabba on Mommy's phone". 

Surprisingly, the sound quality of these headphones is really good! I cranked them up as loud as they'd go (remember, I'm a rebel), to see if they'd distort or if they sounded muffled or anything at louder volumes... nothing! 

They sounded the same on low as they did on high. 

I definitely think these headphones are worth the $19.99 price tag.

However, I can't comment on their long term durability, as I've only had them about a month, but I do know that Micah is kind of rough on his toys, and they've held up well so far. No broken pieces or anything snapped off from rough use.

  These Kidz Gear volume limiting headphones would make a great gift for the little music lover on your shopping list this year. For more info on Kidz Gear and to order your own headphones or splitter, check out their website.

The awesome folks over at Kidz Gear have been generous enough to allow me to give one of you lucky readers a goodie box, consisting of a pair of your very own headphones, carrying case and splitter. 

Check out the easy entry form below to get your entries in!

Giveaway ends Friday, December 14th.

GOOD LUCK!!!

 

Disclaimer: I received the above mentioned products to facilitate my review. I was not monetarily compensated for this review nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review. My opinions are my own and yours may differ. Adventures of a Midlife Mommy is NOT responsible for prize shipment.

For the Die Hard Zelda Fans...

When I was approached to check out the unique products from STL Ocarina, I instantly knew what an ocarina was, but for those of you that don't have teen age boys or Zelda geeks around the house, here's what an ocarina is, according to Wikipedia...

"The ocarina (/ɒkəˈriːnə/) is an ancient flute-like wind instrument.^[1] Variations do exist, but a typical ocarina is an enclosed space with four to twelve finger holes and a mouthpiece that projects from the body. It is often ceramic, but other materials may also be used, such as plastic, wood, glass, clay, metal, and even vegetables"

It even has the TriForce symbol

 

For you Zelda lovers out there, you'll know that the ocarina is a central part of the plot of both "The Ocarina of Time" and "Majora's Mask", it was the instrument that Link played in those games to do something or go somewhere or something. My son tried to explain it all to me, but I kinda zoned out after 3.7 seconds.

I don't know much about Zelda, admittedly, but I do know that the ocarina I received for review, from STL Ocarinas is really neat!

Trying to figure it out was kind of like being in elementary school and trying to learn how to play the recorder, it sounded really squawky at first, but after a little while, I was actually making a nice sounding tone.

It was super simple to learn to play, just for entertainment purposes, I'm not quite at concert level... YET! 

Included in the package I received, there was a fingering chart, similar in design to what a guitar fingering chart would look like.

 Mind you, I didn't spend a ton of time trying to learn all the Zelda songs that were in the book, but with practice, I could see this being a totally attainable goal. (Zelda nerds everywhere rejoice)

I don't see the ocarina becoming the double neck guitar of our time, but I definitely think it would make an awesome collectable gift for anyone who is into Zelda or for a young child who is just learning about music. 

I think the ocarina is a great way to introduce music into a child's life. They are relatively inexpensive and it's a great way to let kids feel like they are making music, without having to commit to costly instruments or lessons. 

In addition to the traditional style, they also have a special 6 hole potion style ocarina, which I thought was especially cute and collectable.

For more info or to order your very own Ocarina, check out STL's website.

 

 
Disclaimer: I received the above mentioned products to facilitate my review. I was not monetarily compensated for this review nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review. My opinions are my own and yours may differ. 

#Zelda #GiftGuide #CollectableGifts