RSS Email
You are here: Home / Archives for Reviews

2012 Kia Sorento EX AWD

July 27, 2012 by

What is better than getting to drive an awesome new car for the week except maybe owning that awesome new car but I must say that I really enjoyed my week behind the wheel of the 2012 Kia Sorento EX AWD.

My commute to work one way is about 52 miles which takes about an hour with no traffic but could take as long as 1.5-2 hours depending on traffic.  Having the Sorento get me through the daily traffic for an entire week was terrific.  It was super comfortable to drive and had a ton of awesome features like Sirius Satellite radio, blue tooth enabled phone and navigation.

iPhone/iPad Cable

The Kia Sorento that we got to recap was a dark cherry/black color with black leather interior.  To me there is nothing better than the feel and smell of new leather interior and I instantly feel in love and this was just the beginning.  Sitting behind the wheel looking at all of the controls threw me into a little bit of overload since neither of our two cars have anywhere near this many features.  Our Sorento had an AM/FM radio with Sirius Satellite radio, navigation, blue tooth enabled phone, backup camera and iPhone connection.   That was just the entertainment features then I saw the dual heated leather seats, climate control settings and dual power seats and darn near lost my mind.

Ok, so that I don’t totally forget some of the features of the Kia Sorento that I really enjoyed I will list them for you now:

  • AM/FM/CD/MP3/SiriusXM Satellite Radio Audio System – What more could you ask for and I love Howard Stern so it col to have Sirius.
  • Infinity Surround Sound Audio System w/10 speakers – Shaun asked me on numerous occasions to turn the radio up so we could jam to Maroon 5.
  • Navigation System & Rear Camera Display – backup camera was a little hard to get use to because I was afraid I was still going to hit something or someone.
  • Push Button Start w/Smart Key – Really cool that you can start the car with the SmartKey in your pocket.
  • Eco Minder Indicator – Told me when I was achieving optimum fuel economy which is awesome since gas in Delaware is $3.47/gallon.
  • Auto-dimming Mirror w/Homelink – This is cool because cars behind you won’t blind you and I like that on the rear view mirror there are buttons that you can use to control your garage door.
  • Power folding outside mirrors – hit the lock button twice on the SmartKey and the vehicle locks and the mirrors fold in. TOO COOL!
  • 8-Way Power Driver’s Seat and Lumbar Support – Seats were soooooo comfortable and with all of the different settings it seems impossible for anyone not to be comfortable while driving this vehicle.
  • Third Row 50/50 Split Folding Seats – Since we are a family of 5 the third row came in handy but didn’t figure out until the last day that the passenger seat in the second row folds up allowing easy access to the third row.  LOL, we aren’t the smartest people in case you haven’t noticed.

These are just a few of the highlights for me but it had so many more cool little features that you probably would never even think about but make the Kia Sorento a really nice vehicle.

All in all an AWESOME vehicle and definitely a vehicle I would consider buying.  The Sorento offered a really comfortable ride and I must admit I was a little sad when they picked it up.

I Disclose




New Balance made in the US

July 25, 2012 by

You won’t find many sandals or flip flops in Rob’s closet. In fact other than his work shoes, 1 pair of slippers and 1 pair of slides all he owns are sneakers. He loves sneakers of all kinds and ends up keeping them for a really long time. Even the garage has a stash of sneakers that are now only worth mow the lawn or cleaning the car.

new balance 990 AlignNew Balance have been Rob’s go to sneaker for years. He loves the fit and styles that go with everyday clothes. This Father’s Day Rob got another pair of sneakers to start the summer off fresh.

The New Balance 990 is what I would call a throwback. Rob and Shaun have both had this shoe in the past and it’s one that they lean towards when picking out new shoes. What we like especially about this shoe is it is/or mostly made in the US.

New Balance is the only athletic shoe company that currently manufactures or assembles shoes in the USA. Calling some already existing historic and shoe manufacturing facilities home is a great way for New Balance to nestle itself into the little communities.

Align is a collection of men’s training apparel that is designed to give visual cues during weight training. The wicking fabric pulls the perspiration away from the body allowing body to stay cool and dry. The weight of the shirt feels much high quality than other sport shirts that Rob purchases.

New Balance will be staying a staple in Rob’s closet for a long time.
I Disclose




Clearasil PerfectaWash for clean skin

July 6, 2012 by

One would think as an adult you wouldn’t have to worry about acne and other skin issues. For most of my life I didn’t worry about things like that, I was blessed with good skin that didn’t breakout. Today I suffer from clogged pores and black heads. Sometimes I have to perform mini surgery just to get clearer looking skin.

Raising a teenage daughter is hard sometimes. I try to educate her about keeping her skin healthy, washing her face and applying moisturizer. Clearasil recently came out with Clearasil Perfecta Wash, a perfect dose dispenser of rapid action face wash.

clearasil perfectawash

Rob and I have been using Clearasil Perfecta Wash for a couple weeks, we replaced our Oil Free Face Wash to see it this is was something that would improve our skincare routine.

clearasil perfecta wash
Key Product Ingredients & Benefits:

  • Maximum strength acne fighting ingredient – 2% Salicylic Acid
  • Dermatologist tested
  • SuperFruit Splash – energizes and refreshes with raspberry and cranberry extracts
  • Soothing Plant Extract – gentle formula with ingredients known to calm and reduce redness

I haven’t noticed a huge difference in the appearance of my skin but I have noticed a softness without additional moisturizer. I don’t feel tightness and dryness on my cheeks after using Clearasil Perfecta Wash. Rob is enjoying the hands-free dispenser. He’s a little bit of a clean freak so anything that cuts down on the mess in the bathroom is a bonus. I’m not crazy about the fragrance, I would prefer something more neutral or better yet fragrance free; to me it smells more like a household cleaner.

This summer, Clearasil is giving you and your family the chance to Rock Your Skin with PerfectaWash! Just head to the Clearasil Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/ClearasilUS, for a PerfectaWash Buy One, Get One Coupon and other great summertime sweepstakes, including the opportunity to WIN VIP tickets to the Clearasil Six Flags Summer Concert Series and tickets to Lollapalooza Music Festival!

Shop for the dispenser and refill as your local Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, RiteAid and Amazon.com.

“I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Clearasil. I received a product sample to facilitate my review and a promotional item to thank me for taking the time to participate.”




Experience with Radisson Warwick Philadelphia

June 27, 2012 by

I’ve been debating whether write this review or not. I don’t’ typically like to write bad reviews but this experience really left a bad taste in my mouth.

A couple weeks back I attended Bloggy Boot Camp in Philadelphia and to truly take advantage of the full experience I wanted to spend the night at the conference hotel. I got a room at the Radisson Warwick Hotel for one night and shared it with a fellow blogger.

I called the night before arrival to add my roommate’s name so she could check into the room since she was getting into the city before me. The person that was supposed to be assisting me on the phone was giving me a hard time because my name was spelled wrong in their system. I finally got to the point of giving her the name of my roommate, asked for her to be added to the room and was told it would be fine. I also asked about the parking fees and she was clueless, telling me to ask the front desk. I was transferred and was finally given the answer I was looking for.

The next day as I was riding the train into the city I got a text from my roommate saying they wouldn’t allow her to check in; her name couldn’t be found on the room. Luckily she was able to hang out at the Bloggy Boot Camp cocktail hour till I got there.

I checked in, headed up to the room and was looking forward to a little quiet time before the nighttime festivities. I plopped down on the bed and instantly regretted my decision to stay overnight. The bed was miserably hard and uncomfortable. I remembered later that night that I should’ve asked for a Sleep Number room, by that time it was late and we needed to get some sleep.

The bathroom had a strange set up. The window sill was dirty and had an old rusty looking window but they kept extra toiletries there. I know they were going for a boutique look with a beautiful bathroom vanity but the counter tops were so high I couldn’t reach my face into the sink to wash up. I’m short but by no means a little person. The hot water for the shower took almost 10 minutes to reach temperature and there were piles of dust/hair in the corners and under the vanity.

The room itself was dimly light and lacked outlets to charge our phones. The hotel did bring up a microwave at my roommate’s request and that took up the outlet that I needed to use.

I really expected more from a Radisson at a discounted rate of $217/night. The exterior and lobby was beautiful, the in-house staff were friendly but the room accommodations left a lot to be desired for such a swanky area of Philadelphia.




Kaijudo: Rise of the Duel Masters

June 24, 2012 by

Recently I was asked to have a viewing party for Kaijudo: Rise of the Duel Masters and as soon as I did a little research I knew this was a show that Shaun would love to check out.

Kaijudo: Rise of the Duel Masters” is an animated action-fantasy series that follows the adventures of a young hero, Ray, who possesses the rare ability to befriend and duel alongside fantastical creatures from a parallel dimension. Evil forces would have these creatures tamed and enslaved, so Ray and his two best friends must join the ranks of the mysterious Duel Masters to ensure the survival of both races before it’s too late.

We were sent the first two episodes to view and Shaun was excited to invite a few friends from the neighborhood over to have some pizza and chips and watch Kaijudo.  Everyone even got their own Kaijudo headband to wear during the party.

All of the kids really enjoyed Kaijudo and a lot of them said they were going to ask their parents to set it up on the DVR so that they didn’t miss any episodes. We set Kaijudo up for Shaun as well because like I mentioned this is a show that Shaun really enjoyed watching.

Here is a trailer for Kaijudo: Rise of the Duel Masters:

If you or someone you know is into animated action-fantasy then you are going to want to check out Kaijudo for sure.

Kaijudo: Rise of the Duel Masters airs on Saturday’s at 8pm on The Hub TV network so be sure to check it out for yourself, you won’t be disappointed.

I Disclose




Celebrate Reading with iVillage and PBS Kids

June 21, 2012 by

Reading is an important way to keep kids sharp and focused until the school bell rings again. Our weekly trips to the library often start with requests to get on the computers or play with the toys but I encourage the kids to first pick out the books that they want to borrow then we play. In our home reading is done 1st thing in the morning before the day gets hectic and the tv turns on. Summer mornings work best for us because we haven’t started on other activities yet but nighttime in the winter.

PBS Kids and IVillage have teamed up to bring you the Summer Reading Community Challenge officially started June 18th. To kick it off the kids and I set up all the goodies we were sent outside where we could include the kids in the neighborhood.

dr seuss hat

that’s Cooper, too young to read but he makes a mighty fine Cat in the Hat

The iVillage PBS Kids summer Reading Community Challenge is designed to keep kids reading and building literacy over the summer months. i’m guilty of just letting the kids do whatever they want some days during the summer. Schedules are still hectic and full and sometimes it’s easier to let them watch a movie instead of productive and quality activities. This reading program give me and the kids a little bit of accountability by having them fill out a Reading Progress Chart. I’m allowing for some laziness throughout the day and of course outside play and swimming but we are focused on keeping hold of what was learned throughout the school year.

Our exploration of the materials sent included books, how to track time spent reading, activity sheets, fill in the blank stories, tattoos, DVD of Super Why and markers and notebooks. I’m going to say the notebooks and markers were the hit. There is something about doodling that excites kids and I’m happy to oblige. I also had each child complete a little questionnaire about their love of reading. I think this made them feel a little grown up. Some were able to write on their own, some needed help but everyone tried.
pbs kids ivillage summer reading program

pbs kids ivillage summer reading program super why tattoos

pbs kids ivillage summer reading program doodling notebook
pbs kids ivillage summer reading program activity sheets
There is still time to sign up for the iVillage PBS Kids Summer Reading Community Challenge. How will you encourage your kids to slow the brain drain this summer?  Also join in the fun and celebrate reading for a chance to win $1,000!

I Disclose




Cattiva Cosmetics 2-in1 Shadow Crease Brush

June 18, 2012 by

There’s something about opening the drawers to my vanity and seeing all of the Cattiva Cosmetics bling that makes me smile.

cattiva luxury cosmetics sparkle packaging

missing Mineral Quad Eyeshadow

My most recent article is the Shadow Crease Brush. If you know me you know I’m a eye shadow collector. I love the color and drama I can easily add with bright and deep and vibrant colors. With the collection of eye shadows comes drawer full of brushes. The Shadow Crease Brush is awesome because it’s dual tip makes it 2 brushes in one. The fluffy side is for all over shadow on the lid and the tighter angle is for applying in the crease. I add another extra fluffy brush to the mix for my brow color and that’s all I need.
applying eye shadow smoky eye crease
blog ambassdor cosmetics beauty bloggerWhile Cattiva Cosmetics give off a luxurious special occasion feel they certainly have become my basics. The eye liner, lip gloss and new Shadow Crease Brush have made their way into my purse so I have go to color wherever I am. I use the Bellaza Blush/Bronzer Mineral Duo over my foundation almost daily and the mascara has made it way onto my eyes more often than I originally anticipated since I’m not usually a mascara wearer. While I love my Mineral Quad Eyeshadow it gets left behind because of the lack of case.

Cattiva Cosmetics is chock full of antioxidants, minerals and anti-aging properties allowing your true beauty to shine through.
I Disclose




This Dad Loves Watches – Timex

June 15, 2012 by

Over the last two years I have become somewhat obsessed with watches and collecting them and currently have four in my collection and just added a fifth.  My newest watch is the Timex Quartz Fly-Back Chronograph and I must admit it’s really an awesome watch.

The first thing that I really like about this watch is that it is black stainless steel.  All of the watches in my collection are silver and with this one I wanted to add some color to my collection.  I have looked at a few white watches but for some reason I can’t pull it off but this black Timex Quartz Fly-Back Chronograph pops when I have it on and I must admit looks pretty darn good.  Timex is known for quality long lasting watches so I know this is one that I am going to have in my collection for a while.

Lets get into some specifications of the watches for all of you watch geeks like myself:

  • 6-hand proprietary movement
  • Independent motors and microprocessors
  • Four hour fly-back chronograph
  • 2nd time-zone function
  • Stainless steel case
  • INDIGLO® night-light
  • 100m water-resistant
  • Date feature

With Father’s Day this Sunday this watch would make a perfect gift for that watch enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a really nice watch.

I Disclose




NUK Freshfoods Mash and Serve Bowl

June 13, 2012 by

baby food masher nukWith the baby coming in a few months, I’ve already started to think about once he starts eating table food. So when I got the opportunity to analyse NUK’s Freshfoods Mash and Serve Bowl, I jumped at the chance.

One of the things I’m really looking for in food preparation for the baby is something that both myself and the girls can do easily. I know that once we start feeding him regularly the girls are going to love to help. I first tried banana’s and blueberry’s which mashed up with ease. Then I had some steamed potatoes that the girls practiced mashing. It was extremely easy for Parker and Peyton and they had a blast doing it. It was great to get them involved and they wanted to mash everything in the house.

Clean up was a snap. The bowl rinsed out with no problems and even the mash washed up clean in no time. It’s also nice that the bowl is microwavable. I only wish it had a lid so that it would travel easily. It’s the perfect size to toss in a diaper bag but with no lid it’s not practical to take along. At home though it’s going to be great. The girls are really going to feel apart of taking care of the baby and I don’t have to worry about too many parts that they may hurt themselves on.

 




Using Skype for Home and Business

June 13, 2012 by

Talking to long distance family and friends can be stressful. Timing the calls right so the rates are low during off peak times can be difficult especially when we are working with different time zones and countries.

Life can be simpler with Skype. But did you know it’s not only for family chats, Skype Mobile and Skype for  Business are great tools to have for those just in case moments. Learn to work smarter, more effectively and more efficiently using Skype Manager. Use Face to Face video conferencing with colleagues and clients instead of expensive traveling. Share large files without the hassles of shared drives and connected networks.

skype ambassador bloggerTake Skype with you on your mobile device. Don’t miss another important call or video chat because you’re on the go. Purchase Skype credits and save money on international calls and texts from your Windows Phone, Android, iPhone or iPad.

Skype makes staying in touch simple with Skype to Skype calling; and as long as everyone signs up for Skype the calls are free.

  1. Download Skype
  2. Add your contacts
  3. Make a call….That’s it!

Now that my grandmother has a computer I’m sending her a webcam so we can chat and she can see her great grandkids grow up. She’s new to Facebook but I think because Skype is so simple to use she’ll get the hang of it and I’ll be hearing that fun Skype ringtone much more often.

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Skype. I received Skype credits to facilitate my review and a promotional item to thank me for participating.
I Disclose




« Previous Page
Next Page »