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Fun with Outdoor Toys

Our weekends are our time to spend not just as a family but as part of a close knit community that actually gets together to do things as a group. Friday and Saturday nights are our bonfire night. We share the duties with our neighbors, we all pitch in with s’more’s supplies, pie iron ingredients and even toys and games for the kids.

For months we’ve been hijacking one little boy’s light up bow and arrow set. The kids get a kick out of playing it at night so they have an excuse to play in the dark. They’ve made up rules and a point system with prizes of extra marshmallows or who gets to pick the movie when it’s time to go in.
Air Storm Firetek Light Up Bow and Arrow
There’s no more having to borrow anymore. Sabreena, Shae and Shaun are now enjoying their own ZING Air Storm Firetek Bow. This high performance but low tech toy is exactly what the kids love to so outdoors.
Air Storm Firetek Light Up Bow and Arrow

Air Storm Firetek Light Up Bow and Arrow

Maybe it was the introduction of the movie Brave but bows of all kinds are hot. In our community alone about 6 families have some version of a bow & arrow set that they bring out to play with.

This particular one has a light up feature that allows the kids to play at night. It’s bright enough that they can shoot it across the field so everyone goes scrambling. The materials are very kid friendly too. Made of lightweight plastics and foam no one is getting hurt at least not seriously.

Besides the night time light up feature the kids also get a kick out of the whistle as the arrow goes flying through the air. It’s the indicator that it has gone fast and far.

for about $30 (affiliate link) this is a great toy for boy or girl, at least the age of 6 even though packaging says 8. I’d even say a dexterous 5 year old could have lots of fun once they managed the right hand eye coordination.

The fun doesn’t stop there for great outdoor toys. The kids love playing all kinds of hunting, shooting, capture, war games. The Dart Zone Scorpion Gatling Blaster is a fully automatic motorized foam dart gun that has a rapid fire action for high intensity games. I’m a witness to say these sting a bit when you’re hit but that doesn’t deter the rougher boys of the group. The girls weren’t a fan.

Dart Zone Gatling Blaster

Unfortunately like most of our dart gun toys we’ve lost most of the foam darts. The kids have a couple acres to run around and play but they aren’t good about retracing steps to find the casualties.  Finding replacements online is proving to be a touch difficult. Hopefully by spring we can replenish our supply for a season of fun.

The Dart Zone Gatling Blaster is available exclusively at Walmart and Walmart.com for just under $20.




Smile Brilliant Teeth Whitening System

A few weeks ago I started the Smile Brilliant teeth whitening system and I’m so excited to see the results. I’ve tried whitening my teeth in the past but the results were never what I expected. I’ve done the strips and the gel that you add to the toothpaste but I’ve always been disappointed. They took weeks to show any change and never lasted very long after I stopped the process. Since I don’t smoke or drink coffee or soda, I expected my teeth to stay white for a good amount of time after using these products.

Smile Brilliant is a much more professional kind of whitening treatment. Instead of the one size fits all trays that you get at the drug store, Smile Brilliant will send you custom made trays that fit perfectly to your teeth. This guarantees that the whitening gel will coat the full exterior of your teeth to provide an even whitening. Their process is incredible; everything that you will need is sent to you in a kit. This includes the two different kinds of paste that you need to take the molds of your teeth as well as several syringes full of the whitening and desensitizing gels. The box is also full of instructions for each step of the process from taking the impressions to applying the whitener to cleaning and caring for your trays. The instruction sheets also include tips for the best ways to achieve the best results.

Smile Brilliant Teeth Whitening

Smile Brilliant is a lab quality process with custom fitted trays and professional quality whitening ingredients to ensure the best results without the high cost of visiting your dentist. My kit cost about $140 and should last months if not a year or so I can do maintenance whitening every couple months as needed.

  • Teeth Whitening Trays – 2 Custom-fitted whitening trays (upper and lower teeth)
  • Carrying Case – Compact case holds both your whitening trays
  • Impression material to make your own dental impressions (plus extra material included)
  • 3-Way, pre-paid postage – all postage between you and the lab is covered (2-way for international orders)
  • 1 set of custom dental models – created by our lab technicians from your impressions
  • Professional teeth whitening gel – Dentist-strength 22% Carbamide Peroxide in 3ml syringes.
  • 2 year teeth whitening tray replacement warranty
  • Detailed instructional brochure – Simple guide to creating your custom-fitted teeth whitening trays
  • 30 day satisfaction guarantee!

Here’s my update with about 8 days of use. It’s really quite simple to use. So simple that I wear them to work so I don’t have to skip a day due to a weird schedule or lots of things to do. I’m pleased with the progress. I purposely didn’t watch the changes each day because I didn’t think I’d be happy without a dramatic difference. In just a week’s time I do notice the brightening. I can’t wait to see the results after 3 weeks.Smile Brilliant Teeth Whitening

excuse the lighting, an overcast day versus sunny day in the shade makes for a big difference in great lighting.

 




Jord Wood Watch Recap and Giveaway

While I wouldn’t classify Rob as a trendy or fashionable man he does enjoy his little luxuries. Sneakers, watches and tattoos is where he spends his money. Everything else in his life is pretty simple; jeans and a sweater for a nice dinner, shaved head instead of weekly haircuts and locally crafted beer instead of pricey wine lists .  I honestly don’t know if I could deal with a man that needed to iron his shirts or “do” his hair.

When we were on our cruise this summer Rob was eyeing a wood watch at a Caribbean jewelry store. I was in another store trying to convince myself to buy a HUGE blue topaz pendant so I didn’t get a good look at the watch he wanted. We both left empty-handed.  Fast forward a couple months and Rob got his wood watch. It was a surprise for him that he really loves.

Wood Watch Holiday Gift Guide #jordwatch

Jord Watches are handcrafted timepieces made with sustainable materials from all over the world. Jord watches are designed to take people back to nature, away from the metal, plastic and rubber that we’re all used to. A wood watch is not just an accessory to tell time it’s a fashion statement that outdoes the terrible trends happening  each day. These watches are meant for those individuals who are looking for something new, something different.

Rob is wearing the Sully. Our Sully series marries complimentary and contrasting woods giving a vivid and varied tonal effect that can only be achieved when constructing a wood timepiece. The large face numbers and cut out bezel add playfulness to an otherwise classically styled timepiece. This is not just a men’s watch. I’m realizing after trying this on that I’d love something this unique to wear for myself. In fact I’ve been looking at a few designs for myself.Women's Wood Watch Holiday Gift Guide #jordwatch #giveaway

Shop Jord Watches this year for anyone on your list who is looking for something distinctive.  Enter to win a $139 (plus free shipping) Gift Certificate. This gift is enough to purchase a new watch, like Rob’s Sully or go towards the purchase of something  else like the copper faced Sidney (my favorite).

Entering is simple, Tell me which #jordwatch you would pick for yourself.



EXTRA ENTRIES:
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Your entries must follow the rules or they won’t be eligible for prizes. This contest ends 11:59 pm, Monday, December 2, 2014. The winners will be emailed and will have 48 hours to claim their prize. This contest is open to Contiguous US residents, age 18 or over. For complete rules please read our blog contest rules page.
Blog Holiday Gift Guide 2014 for Christmas, Hanukkah




Jamberry Nails Manicure

I don’t do much for myself in terms of beauty and glamour these days. This summer has been busy and we’ve been spending alot of time at the pool, on vacation, at the beach and enjoying other activities. This leaves little time for plucking, waxing, steaming, scrubbing and moisturizing. BUT I did finally get a chance to try out Jamberry Nails.

My nails are my nemesis. They grow unevenly and wide and then I pick at my cuticles and skin and used to bit my nails. I’m happy to say I’ve stopped biting my nails for about 3 months. I rewarded myself with a mini home manicure and Jamberry wraps for my nails.

My Jamberry Consultant is Jenna Urban and she rocks. I told her my preferences and dislikes when it comes to nail art and she sent me a sheet of Kiss Me Ombre for me and a sheet of Stars and Peace Signs for Shae. I also got a sheet of a variety of designs which I like for accent nails.Jamberry Nails Manicure Review

There is definitely a learning curve when it comes to application. It took me almost 10 minutes to get my first nail on, in place and filed down. The rest of my nails took about an hour.

For the next few days I had to keep using a blow-dryer and flat iron to re-adhere the ends of the nail wrap. I take some blame because I don’t think i filed them all correctly.

I did love the look of the Jamberry Nail Wraps. I didn’t have to worry about nicks and chipping and could have a pretty shiny design without multiple layers of polish.Jamberry Nails Manicure Review

I did Shae’s nails a few days later and had much better success. Her manicure lasted 2 weeks and through our cruise.Jamberry Nails Manicure Review

I love the idea of Jamberry nail Wraps and the low maintenance idea of a 2-3 week manicure. Watching tutorials and getting advice from my Jamberry rep I see there are many tips and tricks to getting a perfect application.

I have enough wraps to do another application or two or even mix it up with some regular nail color. I will be playing some more with Jamberry Nail Wraps.

If you’re interested in trying them out for yourself visit Jenna Urban online for the entire Jamberry collection and to find out about the new Jamberry StyleBox.

Jamberry style box




Never Go Hungry On @CarnivalCruise #cruisingcarnival

2014 disclosureOne of things cruises are known for is the food. The unlimited food can be found not just on the Lido Deck but in the dining room on Carnival CruiseLines. Our recent trip in the Carnival Fantasy showed us that big time.

Within minutes of getting onboard we were on the Lido Deck grabbing some lunch waiting for our stateroom to be ready so we could shed of our 12 hours in the car grossness. The choices were simple; salads, burgers, dogs, chicken tender, veggies and stirfry. Never Go Hungry on @CarnivalCruise #cruisingcarnivalLet’s not forget about the 24 Soft Serve Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt. That took just a few minutes to get into. It’s one of the things the kids remember them most. Oh and the 24-hour Pizza. The pizza was so good. I’m talking gourmet shop style with a thin chewy crust.

Never Go Hungry on @CarnivalCruise #cruisingcarnivalIn fact the Hotel Director, Alina, chatted long about it. She said she doesn’t even like pizza but was won over when Carnival came up with this recipe with special imported flour from Italy. We ate pizza everyday. It was our nighttime snack when the kids were done with camp and we were done with the Comedy Club. We took a walk to the Lido Deck and stood in long lines waiting for hot fresh pizza and ice cream.

Never Go Hungry on @CarnivalCruise #cruisingcarnival

Seaday Brunch was my favorite meal. We actually missed it the first morning I regret that so much. The menu items were a mix of decadent, homestyle and simple dishes. Shae wanted a simple bagel and cream cheese but was brought lox as an accompaniment. Instead of dismissing it she tried and of course liked it. Rob and Shaun were brought oatmeal while Sabreena chose cereal crusted french toast. I opted for an omelet filled with fresh veggies. The options were endless and delicious.Never Go Hungry on @CarnivalCruise #cruisingcarnival
Dinner was just as indulgent too. Our dining room staff was amazing. Gultekin (Glen), Wahyudi and Jewel anticipated our every need or want and didn’t hesitate to make each meal the best ever.

Never Go Hungry on @CarnivalCruise #cruisingcarnivalHow many servers have you seen cut your child’s food for them? And to think I thought I spoiled them at home.Never Go Hungry on @CarnivalCruise #cruisingcarnival
We sat at our table each night for dinner and our head waiter “Glen” always called out good evening Mr. & Mrs. Babiak which turned into a more comforting and friendly Mr. Robert and Mel. The kids were also greeted with smiles and favorite foods.Never Go Hungry on @CarnivalCruise #cruisingcarnival

To say we were doted on is an understatement. Some nights we were just brought appetizers “Glen” thought we would enjoy rather than wait for us to order. He also knew my kids like to experiment so when it came to more exotic dishes he made sure to bring them their own plate. This is Shae and Shae eating escargot.Never Go Hungry on @CarnivalCruise #cruisingcarnival
Next up were Frog Legs. They weren’t as big of a hit but they tried it because “Glen” and his crew gave us everything and more.Never Go Hungry on @CarnivalCruise #cruisingcarnival
I don’t know how other cruiselines handle their guests grumbling bellies but Carnival is all about filling them up with mouth-watering and gorgeous food.




Fitmark Bags for Healthy Food on the Go

In our house it’s pool season. Our neighborhood pool is like a 2nd home from Memorial Day to Labor Day.  Being there all day is so much fun but it can wreck havoc on  my body when I’m trying to eat healthy.  Planning out my meals has been imperative for the last few weeks as I’m tried to get in better shape and establish healthier habits.  The snack shack is home to ice cream, candy, chips, easy mac, microwave popcorn and soda. The only good choice for me is a fudge pop at less than 100 calories.

I ‘ve been packing snacks, shakes and food in my Fitmark bag instead.  I received The Box LG for review just in time to pack up for a day at the pool.  The convenience is paramount with its four large seal-tight containers. Each container can hold 2 sandwiches for the kids or a hefty salad for me, a few granola bars plus cut up fruit and veggies. It will hold enough for a few hours sitting by poolside.Fitmark Bags, Totes and Accessories #review #health

Fitmark Bags, Totes and Accessories #review #health

The insulated tote along with the included icepacks kept my contents cool while sitting in a shady spot.  The shaker bottle is too small for my protein drinks but Sabreena likes it for her fruit smoothie.

While this bag is meant for someone that is hardcore into their meal management it works perfectly for me and my family too.

Key Features

  • 4 Seal-Tight Meal Containers, BPA Free
  • Custom Shaker Bottle with vitamin and protein mix organizer, BPA Free
  • 2 high quality Ice Packs (1 LG and 1 MED – TSA Approved)
  • Keeps food fresh, longer
  • Lightweight, portable
  • Exterior pocket for your water bottle
  • Swivel action center dividers for organization
  • Back side pocket for your workout and diet journal
  • Interior labeled inspiration
  • Luggage strap and attachment
  • Made with high-grade ballistic nylonFitmark Bags, Totes and Accessories #review #health

Fitmark creates entire lines of functional lifestyle bags for the gym rat to the yogi to the runner and even moms like me who want simple solutions for staying healthy and making smarter choices. No shoes, no apparel, no supplement, just bags and accessories to go along with those bags.Fitmark Bags, Totes and Accessories

Fitmark bags are guaranteed to be made with the highest quality materials to stand up to the toughest abuse. If you aren’t satisfied then you’ll bag will be replaced against any defects in the product materials or manufacturing. Whatever your fitness or health passion is Fitmark can fill the void with function and convenience instead of passing trends and second-rate quality.




New Balance 711 Trainer Shoes

The road to weightloss and healthy living is a long bumpy one. There are many distractions and excuses that get in the way. The best way to stay focused and on track is to have a goal and enlist the help from products you trust and rely on. New Balance is one of those brands.

A while back i was sent a pair of 711 trainers. The timing was great, i was getting back into running. Over the years my feet have grown a tough. My usualy size 8’s weren’t comfortable when it came to athletic shoes so I moved up to 8 1/2 for these. Unfortunately that did work for these shoes either. I had to request a size 9. Perfect fit. I chalk it up to being a slimmer fit shoe, no big deal. Those 8 1/2 shoes when to my mother who has started walking again too.


The 711 Trainer is lightweight with a stretchy flexible fit all over the foot. The cushioning technology called CUSH+ is a revolutionary foam compound. Offering ultra soft and responsive cushioning and comfort without sacrificing durability or stability.

That cushioning makes it’s comfortable to run on concrete, wall the mall, workout in the gym and hike the trails with the kids.
New Balance 711 Trainer Review

New Balance 711 Trainer Review #runner

I’ve trusted New Balance for many years to outfit my feet in comfort and support. I also support New Balance as they support Made in America efforts.

In 2013, 1 out of every 4 pairs of shoes we sold in the USA was made or assembled here. Where the domestic value is at least 70%, we label our shoes “Made in the USA.”

With over 5 US factories New Balance is providing jobs for their own employees and the employees of their Made In America suppliers from Pennsylvania to Maine to Ohio and back home to Massachusetts.

Shop New Balance knowing you’re getting great shoes, gear and apparel.




ProFlowers and Evite #PartyBlooms Sweepstakes

proflowers disclosureWho doesn’t love the look, smell and feel of fresh flowers and plants in a room. It takes such a simple undertaking to make a big impression. That impression could be in a home or someone’s day. ProFlowers has been making a HUGE impression on my mood and my home over the last few weeks.  And now ProFlowers is partnering with Evite to give 10 lucky people 6-months of flowers to make the Perfect Pair

Host a Party on Evite by 6/30/14
or
Post a photo of flowers on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using #PartyBlooms so your image can be found.
 
Find Official Rules here.

Love Flowers @ProFlowers @Evite #PartyBlooms I’d gladly accept flowers for the next 6 months.  Lilies are my favorite, I love their large colorful blooms and fragrant scent.  Tulips with their rainbow of colors is a close second. I’ve noticed if I have fresh flowers in the house I’m more likely to keep the tables cleared off so as not to distract from the beauty of the bouquet. So I guess fresh flowers help me to keep a cleaner, neater home. I should let my husband in on this little bit of insight.

Whether you’re trying to decorate your home, a party space or special evening for two trust in flowers to evoke the proper aura of sophistication or fun. Use Evite to help create the perfect event with a wide variety of invitations for all types of events.

I’m using Evite for Sabreena’s graduation party later this month.  We’re looking at keeping the decor fun and festive so bright bouquets like these would fit in so well.

These are arrangements (and Shari’s Berries) I’ve received recently from #ProFlowers and I love them.Love Flowers @ProFlowers @Evite #PartyBloomsLove Flowers @ProFlowers @Evite #PartyBlooms
sharis berriesLove Flowers @ProFlowers @Evite #PartyBlooms

Follow ProFlowers’s board All About Celebrating- Party Decorations, Recipes and More on Pinterest.

ProFlowers is offering you 20% of your purchase with coupon code: PARTYBLOOMS
This should make your or the recipient so happy.




Chafe Free Swim Shorts Coastal Dog Apparel

Each year we head to the beach as much as we can get there. It’s one of our favorite places to be as a family. First we hit the beach then we clean up and do dinner and rides.  I don’t think my kids will ever grow old of doing rides.  One thing Shaun grows old of is the chafing from his swim trunks. The sand and water put  a beating on his legs. I’m usually armed with powders and creams.  I don’t have to do that anymore. Coastal Dog Apparel has saved my son’s legs so he can play for hours without the discomfort of chafing.

It may not have been true beach weather but that didn’t stop Shaun from jumping in the ocean and swimming out with the other nuts.  He spent all his time out there with a couple breaks for food and water.  When we were packing up I asked him how he felt. He was so happy. He didn’t feel any discomfort or pain creeping up. No rash was developing. His chafe free shorts worked.  The walk back to the car or hotel is usually murder but he didn’t have one complaint.Coastal Dog Chafe Free Swim Shorts

We were able to spend the rest of the day on the boardwalk enjoy the Gillian’s Wonderland Pier.Coastal Dog Chafe Free Swim Shorts

Then the next day we hit the pool for 6 hours. Not a peep about being uncomfortable.Coastal Dog Chafe Free Swim Shorts

Coastal Dog Chafe Free Swim Shorts

Coastal Dog Chafe Free Swim ShortsCoastal Dog Apparel produces these anti-chafe swim shorts for men and boys. The navy inner chafe-free liner is made of a soft Nylon/Lycra blend, which fits snugly and comfortably to protect sensitive skin from surf and sand. It’s like wearing a biker short under swim trunks. No rubbing, no friction, no chafing, no pain.

Coastal Dog was founded to create swimwear that was durable, functional, and fashionable but they also give back to the community. 100% of profits from Coastal Dog Apparel (swimsuits, baseball caps, clothing, everything!) go to support charities that focus on helping children in need. When you buy swimsuits from us, you can feel great about your purchases.




My Little Pony Friendship is Magic Season 5

Twilight Sparkle and her beloved pony friends will continue to celebrate the magic of friendship as the Hub Network announces season five of its hit animated series “My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic.” The series, from Hasbro Studios, is slated to air in 2015 on the Hub Network, champions of family fun and the only network dedicated to providing kids and their families entertainment they can watch together. The network has ordered 26 episodes for season five.My Little Pony Friendship is Magic Season 5

Excited is just one word used to describe how Sabreena and Shae feel about this news. You see this is one cartoon that Shae can get Sabreena to watch with her without complaint. The cuddle up and discuss the plot, the character’s personality traits, why such conflict is happening and how the “problem” should be solved. It’s like their very own soap opera.

“My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic” follows the magical Princess Twilight Sparkle and her trusted assistant Spike, who live in Ponyville in the enchanted land of Equestria, along with her colorful pony friends – honest Applejack, generous Rarity, kind Fluttershy, loyal Rainbow Dash and fun-loving Pinkie Pie. Together, they teach one another valuable lessons about the most powerful magic of all – the magic of friendship!Hub Club Member

To celebrate “My Little Pony Friendship is Magic” head over to Build-A-Bear Workshop to make your own My Little Pony stuffed plush. This is Twilight Sparkle that Shae made for her 6th birthday plus a Flip ‘n Whirl Rainbow Dash from Hub Network.
My Little Pony Hub Club