Reviews Archives - Page 24 of 63 - Look What Mom Found

Dressing Down for the Holidays with Tea Collection

December 3, 2011 by Melissa

Dressing up the kids for the holidays always seems so daunting. Finding the perfect dress or dressy sweater (that won’t be worn again) and the perfect shoes (that won’t be worn again) and the right shade tights (that never stay up) and then making sure everything fits; it’s just too much work. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve done it before but sometimes I want the kids to wear
Children’s Clothes that look like children’s clothes and be comfortable AND still look great. Tea Collection puts out some of the most unique clothing and accessories for children. Inspiration for the colorful and sometimes funky choices is derived from the designer’s worldwide travels.

amate canon wardrobe set

double eagle wardrobe set

Tea Collection offered me a great opportunity to review some outfits just for this reason. I selected one of their Girl’s Wardrobe Sets ; A is for Awesome, which included 2 tunics/dresses, 1 pair of leggings and 1 pair of bootcut leggings. The colors pulled me in first. The reds are festive but the purples and oranges tones it down for everyday wear. A simple sparkly headband and pair of elegant shoes can dress-up these outfits in a second. Shae’s outfits come from the Mercado Mexicano collection. The folk art bird on Shae’s dress can be found throughout Mexico at festivals, markets and as body art. Using the natural surroundings as a muse creates their pairings of color and pattern.

Each outfit has been put through a wearing and 2 washings and the materials are still soft and easy to wear. This is important to me as there is NO way I want to monitor labels or pull out an iron for a trip to the grocery store. Tea Collection focuses on what is important; practicality, color and look. I’m hoping to add more Tea Collection to Shae’s wardrobe; these clothes are a natural fit to her easy-going but girly personality.

Keeping Smiles Big and Healthy with Crest and Oral-B

December 1, 2011 by Melissa

Oral hygiene might not be the most interesting topic but Oral-B Pro-Health FOR ME makes it more fun for kids. I recently hosted a “MommyParties” with Shaun’s Cub Scout troop to talk about ways to keep the boy’s teeth and mouth clean and healthy.

Each week at the scout meeting we discuss a new topic, sometimes it’s about family, sometimes it’s about nutrition sometimes it’s about safety. I thought introducing Oral-B Pro-Health FOR ME would be a fun way to not only have my party but give the boys a little lesson. I know from experience kids don’t always follow through on proper brushing so I knew this would be a perfect chance to teach a little something to kids from a different perspective.

I started the “presentation” asking the boys if they knew how long they were supposed to brush their teeth or how often they were supposed to floss. One thing I loved was that some of them knew to use a song like Happy Birthday or Twinkle Twinkle Little Star to ensure they brushed their teeth long enough. The whole thing ended up being a very educational experience for the boys and a very entertaining with the unique answers they were giving. It wasn’t at all boring, we made it fun with balloons and a cute smile craft and a sample of Cars II Gummy Vitamins.

Toothbrushes and toothpaste might not sound like a fun gift but the kids loved the gift bags provided by Oral-B Pro Health FOR ME. Each boy (and some siblings) went home with a toothbrush, full size toothpaste, pack of flossers, various coupons and a wealth of information they will hopefully us.

My own kids have been using the Oral-B Pro Health FOR ME Mouth Rinse and Flossers on a daily basis. Shaun especially seems excited to have tools just for him. No more spicy mouthwash is what he’s most grateful for.

A special thanks to MommyParties and Oral-B Stage III an Crest and Oral-B Pro Health FOR ME to allowing me to share their products and information with a great group of boys!

Craftsman Guaranteed For Life!

November 26, 2011 by Melissa

I have used Craftsman tools my entire adult life and feel why should I use anything else since I already love the tools I am using. I recently received the Craftsman 19-piece inch and metric universal socket set and I have to say I am glad I received this to add to my already large collection.

One of the biggest reasons to use Craftsman tools is that they are guarantees forever meaning if you ever break a tool all you need to do it take it to a Sears store to have it replaced no questions asked. I will say though that I have never broken a Craftsman product which is a testament to the durability of Craftsman.

For those who love Craftsman as much as I do here is some additional information on the 19-piece inch and metric universal socket set:

Ratchet with quick-release button and 45-tooth ratcheting mechanism provides 8-degree ratcheting arc
Inch sizes: 1/4 thru 3/4-inch
Metric sizes: 8 thru 11, 13, 14, 16 thru 18 mm

Craftsman provides people with tools that they can use and pass down from generation to generation. When I moved into my first apartment I remember my grandfather giving me Craftsman tools that he used and that I still use to this day which if you think about it is pretty cool. I am hoping one day I am able to pass my tools down to Shaun for him to use.

Craftsman tools make the perfect gift so if you need a gift for someone this holiday season take a look at the Craftsman 19-piece inch and metric universal socket set or any tool for that matter. I can guarantee you whoever you buy Craftsman for will be happy you did. Check out the Sears Holiday Tools Catalog online and at your nearest Sears store.

Receipts, Recipes and More with Neat Receipts

November 25, 2011 by Melissa

Leafing through magazines, catalogs and cookbooks searching for that just right recipe, home décor ideas or gift for someone…This is how I’ve been spending my nights sitting on the sofa.
So now I have a stack of papers there is no way I can work from it. This is where The Neat Company steps in to get my clutter under control. Using their Intelligent Text Recognition the Neat software captures key information to streamline the filing process. This works great when it comes time to scan in medical documents, receipts for tax purposes and Sam’s vet bills and vaccination records.

Once scanned in, the documents are searchable by keyword because all printed text is captured. This works well when I’m looking for Sabreena’s grades from a particular teacher or subject. This season I’m using the Neat Receipts to keep track of our holiday shopping. Once we get home I submit the receipt right away and track what gifts are for what person. Not only does this help with tracking our spending it helps with knowing how much we are spending on each kid. No more surprises when it comes time to wrap presents.

The Neat Receipts portable scanner is helpful for more than just tracking receipts and business cards for the small business person. Crafts, recipes, toy instructions and holiday card lists are some of the other ways you can utilize this handy tool for the holidays this year. At just over a pound in weight it’s also something that you can toss into your laptop bag and take along with you on weekends away, big shopping trips or to cookie swaps. Shop today in time for the holidays.

UNO Roboto Is The New Way To Play Uno

November 24, 2011 by Melissa

UNO is the game that seems to be played most in our house but now regular UNO may be replaced with UNO Roboto. We recently received UNO Roboto for review and it is a pretty cool game that takes UNO to a whole new level. Looking for a new way to play Uno? Check out UNO Roboto – the latest game from the makers of the classic card game. With an aviator betway-themed twist, UNO Roboto is sure to be a hit with everyone.

UNO Roboto is played like regular UNO where each player is dealt seven cards but that may be where the similarities end. UNO Roboto makes every player record his or her name and also asks if you want to select a house rule which is optional and can be made up by you if you want or you can use the suggestions that are provided. Some of the house rules that are provided with UNO Roboto are meow like cat and a real mouth full where you can talk like a pirate or a cowboy. There are a more options provided but these two are my favorite. The House Rules are done when UNO Roboto tells you to perform your house rule and whoever does it last has to draw two cards. Another cool thing about UNO Roboto is at times when instructed you get to exchange your cards with the player you are told to exchange with. When I played this worked more against me then it did for me but that is ok because I had a blast playing. UNO Roboto will surprise you by calling out Random Rules and funny phrases that change the way you play.

If you are accustom to playing regular UNO you should give UNO Roboto a try. It takes what is already a cool game and makes it a really funny game that is great to play with kids, family members or friends at a party.

UNO Roboto comes with 1 UNO Roboto figure, 108 cards and instructions and is recommended for ages 7-11 years.

Also, Mattel has an awesome promotion with Toys ‘R’ Us for a free Shutterfly photo album with any games purchased between now and the end of the year. For further details click HERE.

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

History and Charm in a Small Package-Galveston Island

November 23, 2011 by Melissa

My first thoughts of a vacation are laid back, no hassle, exotic trips to the beach. My mind has been changed. Last week’s visit to Galveston Island, Texas has made me a convert to sticking to what is right here in the states. Yes Galveston Island has beaches but there is so much more. A city rich in culture, history and pride, Galveston Island offers a little bit of everything for whatever vacation you’re planning; a romantic getaway, a family retreat or a lesson on times past on a small footprint.

Moody Gardens Hotel and Spa Resort- It all started with a decadent suite just for me and Rob. Way too much room for the two of us but it was so nice to have space to spread out and relax in-between activities. Moody Gardens is more than a hotel too; it’s a non-profit foundation for the conservation and education of nature and wildlife. A member of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association, Moody Gardens works with captive and injured animals and their rehabilitation.

Aquarium Pyramid-More than 10,000 marine animals and 1 million gallons of water is the showcase at Aquarium Pyramid. Coming over the the Galveston Causeway this 10-story blue-glass aquarium stands out against the palm trees and blue skies. The Aquarium Pyramid is separated into 4 regions of the world; Carribean, South Atlantic, North Pacific and South Pacific. Each exhibit is centered around the species from that region and gives an educational overview of their natural habitat, predators and lifespan.

lionfish

Rainforest Pyramid-Glass and steel make up this see through pyramid filled with free roaming exotic animals and birds. A recent $25 million upgrade has revolutionized the way we learn about the rainforest by bringing guests up to the canopy, up close and personal to what lives within. Carnivorous plants, lizards, butterflies, macaws and even a white faced saki monkey can all be seen right before your eyes. Once on the floor you’ll visit the replica home of a giant green anaconda, piranhas and vampire bats.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark was a family owned and operated hidden gem located right next to Moody Gardens. From the hotel room you could see the rides and slides and it instantly drew us in. Even though the outside park is open seasonally the indoor park is enough for a family to enjoy a relaxing and exciting day together. We are looking into heading back to enjoy the full park next summer.

Schlitterbahn Cliffhanger ride

learn to body surf at BoogieBahn

Historic Galveston is full of stories, memories and reminders of surviving. Walking and driving past buildings you’ll see markers stating the flood lines from 1900 Hurricane, Hurricane Ike 2008, and others in between. Sea water damaged trees are transformed into pieces of art. Buildings are being brought back to their original state reminiscent of from Being one of the oldest seaports in the States and considered the “Ellis Island of the South” Galveston Island has a deep rooted foundation in maritime operations and immigration. Lots of it’s architecture has stood the test of time and is now protected by the Historical Foundation. Bishops Palace was a place that had to be seen. Built in 1892, this now museum stands as a regal Victorian presence in the midst of smaller less conspicuous homes. It survived the 1900 hurricane virtually unharmed and now attracts visitors who admire works from Nicholas Clayton and home rich in character, charm and eccentric design.

Birds of Galveston Tree Carving

Bishops Palace Architecture

bishops palace galveston tx historic mansion

Bishops Palace Details

The Galveston Seawall was built shortly after the 1900 hurricane to protect the island from disastrous storms and surges. The seawall is exactly that, a wall built into the island at the waterline about 17 feet above sea level. Spanning 10 miles long of the 32 mile long island it’s the perfect spot to watch surfers, sunbathers and the tranquil water crashing on the shore. Memorial Day 2012 expect to see a newly constructed Pleasure Pier; an amusement park built right out on the water.

The Hotel Galvez and Spa might be one of the most beautiful architecturally designed hotels I’ve ever seen. It’s multi-leveled roofs, tall windows and grand entrance make it a sight from its historic beachfront. They are celebrating 100 years with a history rich in the military, community and rebuilding of the city. Our next visit to Galveston will hopefully be on one of their rooms overlooking the water; where state of the art meets old world charm.

Hotel Galvez

I was surprised with the beauty and culture found all over Galveston Island. The people were friendly, the sites were plentiful and the heritage was rich. Since it was just Rob and I that got to enjoy the tours and fun we really want to head back so the kids can experience the fun too.

A special thanks to the Galveston Island Convention and Visitors Bureau and the participants of the Galveston Island Familiarization tour for hosting us during our Carnival Magic experience. We hope to see you all again soon.

Labels that Last – Brother P-Touch

November 22, 2011 by Melissa

Some of you may know that I am part of the P-Touch Tough Test-It Challenge and if not you can read my original post HERE. My room that I was assigned for this challenge was the bedroom and playroom. Being that I have three kids and a niece who are always playing and wanting to do crafts I focused mainly on the playroom.

About two months ago we reorganized all of our craft supplies so that they were easier to find and when I say we I mean Melinda because all I did was put the cabinet that we bought for the craft stuff together. After getting everything reorganized Melinda took the time to label everything with the Brother P-Touch Label maker so that when Sabreena, Shaun or Shae go into the cabinet for an item it is easy for them to find. Having everything labeled allows them to find what they are looking for with ease so that they won’t destroy the cabinet in the process.

Melinda labeled all of these craft items about two months ago as you can see from the below pictures and those labels are still in place today which to be honest I was surprised. Our kids and niece tend to be extremely rough so I thought after about a week Melinda would be replacing the labels but those labels haven’t and aren’t going anywhere. To me this is a testament to the quality of the P-Touch label maker because if those labels can stand up to the daily abuse of a 2 and 4 year old they can withstand all most anything.

I am extremely happy to have had the opportunity to be a part of this challenge and Brother passed with flying colors. I like the quality of the Brother P-Touch so much I actually started using it in the garage so that I could label my stuff so items are easier for me to find.

I know some people might think labeling your items is weird but trust me try it and you will be glad you did but be sure to use the Brother P-Touch label maker if you are looking for quality and long last labels.

“I wrote this review while participating in a campaign by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Brother P-Touch and received a product and gift card to facilitate my review and a promotional item to thank me for taking the time to participate.”

Skylander Spyro’s Adventure

November 21, 2011 by Melissa

Video games are big in our house. We have the Xbox 360, Wii, Nintendo 3DS and the Nintendo DS so needless to say my kids as well as I love video games. Recently Activison released a pretty cool game that I am sure is going to be a hit called Skylander Spyro’s Adventure.

Every time Shaun sees the Skylander commercial on TV he tells Melinda and I how bad he wants that game and I can totally understand because it looks awesome. This is the first game that allows the gamer to bring an action figure to life. All you have to do is place a Skylander on the Portal of Power and they come to life in the video game. To me this might be the coolest feature of the game and it a feature that kids are going to find really cool. Skylanders are more than just action figures in the game they are action figures with brains. Skylanders will remember their in game experiences and upgrades and they move through the world of Skyland.

One feature that kids and gamers are going to love is it doesn’t matter what gaming system your friends have because the Skylanders work on and across all major video gaming systems. So that means you grab your favorite Skylanders take them to your friends house place them on their Portal of Power and your Skylander will come to life in the game.

Skylander Spyro’s Adventure is available for Wii, Playstation 3, Xbox 360 and Nintendo 3DS and available at most major retailers.

For more features and information on Skylander Spyro’s Adventure click HERE!!!

Wordful Wednesday- She Gets it from Her Mama

November 9, 2011 by Melissa

Not a word people! We know she’s only 15 but there isn’t a freakin’ thing we can do about the way she looks. She obviously gets it from her mama 🙂

Anyway this is her going to Homecoming 2 weekends ago. All dressed up with NO date. She went with a group of friends then headed to Main Street for a late pancake dinner.

Did you see her shoes? Thanks to My Shoe Connection and their crazy big selection of evening and wedding shoes in every color and style Sabreena got to sport these super hot purple peep toe shoes.
Oh, and they fit mama 🙂

Lonesome George Needs Your Help

November 9, 2011 by Melissa

In a former or next life my career path will be very different. I want to travel the world and explore species of animals that few people ever see. Lonesome George is one of them. He’s a 100 year old Pinta tortoise from the Galapagos Islands that may be the last of his species.
Lonesome George has become the icon for world conservationists and ecological educators. Lonesome George is also the name of a clothing and accessories collection designed to inspire people to respect and embrace the world we have. Wearing Lonesome George & Co Impact Apparel makes a statement to those around you that you care and want to be part of the change for good.

Sabreena received the 1930 Element tee that features Lonesome George himself as well as a message asking for help. She’s chosen the right career path; Environmental Engineering. She wants to do something good for the world; she’s on the right track already. The tee is soft, thick, cut large and long and expected to last a long time.

Created using organic Peruvian Pima cotton each tee, hoodie and tote helps support the efforts to bring back the Galapagos Islands where it should be. This oasis and home to many unique species of animals is under attack by commercial fishing, tourism and introduced species. The money raised with the sale of Lonesome George products goes directly to programs to prevent more loss.

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