Showing posts with label Holiday Gift Guide. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Holiday Gift Guide. Show all posts

Be a super hero with Marvel Avengers RC Extreme Iron Man

Little boys dream big. They want to save the world from bad people. They want to have extreme strength and power. Most importantly they want to soar above the clouds and fly with ease.  What's the next best thing to being a superhero - the Marvel Avengers RC Extreme Iron Man.


In all the comics and movies, Iron Man flies to extreme heights and conquerors his foes. With the Marvel Avengers RC Extreme Iron Man, everyone can help him fly, dive and climb to victory. This 19" ultimate flying machine is made from lightweight yet durable, reinforced, structural foam, powered by high output twin engines, fueled by a built in, super capacity, rechargeable LiPo battery and driven by a custom programmed, extended distance 2.4 GHz controller. This remote controlled flying toy can soar up to 300 feet into the air.

Even with all the flying power, the Marvel Avengers RC Extreme Iron Man is quite manueverable. The unique patent pending steering mechanism offers great control. The steering allows the user a tight turning radius and the ability to produce some amazing flying tricks.

The Marvel Avengers RC Extreme Iron Man comes with a rechargeable battery that allows 6-8 minutes of high powered flying. Additional 6 AA batteries are required for use. It is recommended for ages 8 and up. The item is available for purchase at a variety of stores and the cost is approximately $60.

Give the gift of flight with the Marvel Avengers RC Extreme Iron Man.


Disclosure: I received this item to review. All opinions are my own.

Make playtime about learning with these educational toys - Holiday Gift Guide

As a parent, I love it when I can sneak in educational aspects during playtime. The kids are having fun and learning at the same time. It is a perfect scenario.

Here are some educational based toys that your kids will love. Just don't tell them that they are learning.

Thames and Kosmos Chemistry Set
The Thames and Kosmos Beginner Level Chemistry set offers 75 experiments that are easy to perform and understand. With a 40 page manual, kids and caregivers can start with easier experiments and build their confidence. All the tools to success are included in the kit. Kids can learn how to make invisible ink, surface tension of water and many, many more. Your kids will start asking to "play" with science.

Red Toolbox
Being able to build an item from scratch takes skill. Red Toolbox offers a wide range of wood building kits for various skill levels. These kits use real wood and tools.  Kids and parents can expect to assemble, glue, hammer and file. Kits can be painted to personalize. These kits offer kids and parents the chance to spend time together while learning a new skill.


Nancy B's MoonScope
The Nancy B's MoonScope can start the sky gazer's dream. The MoonScope makes looking at the night sky easy for the younger set. With magnification up to 90x, the night sky sparkles under the lens. Whether you want to see Saturn's rings or the mountains on the moon, sky gazers can explore all the night has to offer. With the activity journal, even the novice sky gazer can become more in-tune with the celestial beings. A telescope can let the user travel to faraway places without leaving home.



Disclosure: I received some of these items to review. All opinions are my own. 

How do you serve Cabot Cheddar? Tips on storage and serving

Whether it is a snack or an elaborate cheese tray, serving and storing Cabot Cheddar the right way can enhance its full flavor.

Cabot offers the following tips to enjoy its award winning cheddar.

  • Refrigerate your Cabot cheddar immediately.
  • When serving, allow the cheese to come to room temperature for the richest and most fully-developed flavor, texture and aroma.
  • If surface mold develops, simply cut it off and re-wrap in fresh plastic wrap. Flavor and quality will not be affected.
  • Once opened, re-wrap any remaining cheese tightly in plastic wrap and store in your refrigerator.
  • Properly wrapped and stored in your refrigerator, Cabot natural cheddar will keep for many months. We do not recommend freezing our cheddar as texture will be compromised, although freezing prepared dishes containing our cheeses will not affect quality.
  • Storage at room temperature for even a few hours may cause butterfat in naturally aged cheddar to separate from the cheese. The flavor will not be affected and the cheese is still edible, but may be somewhat drier due to loss of moisture.

Taste the difference this holiday season. Give yourself and your friends a delicious cheese from Cabot.

Science becomes accessible with Thames Kosmos Chemistry Set - review

Science can be a tricky subject. For some kids, it is a jumble of mis-understood words, letters and concepts. It can be intimidating. To make science more fun, take the "study" out of the subject and see how it works in our daily lives. Let the kids "play" with science with a Thames Kosmos Chemistry Set.

The Thames Kosmos Beginner Chemistry Set offers 125 experiments in 80 pages of manual. Since kids are experimenting, this set is recommended for ages 10 and older and should be used under parental supervision.

This set introduces a child to chemistry without it becoming overwhelming. Each experiment is a way for kids to see chemistry occurs in everyday, common occurrences. It takes chemistry from a difficult, frustrating subject to a fun, engaging part of daily life.

Here are some of the examples that kids can discover with the Thames Chemistry Set.

  • Learn about indicators with litmus solution and write a secret message in invisible ink. These the inks from your colored markets on the chromatography racetrack to review their different color components. Experiment with air pressure, surface tension and the physical properties of fluids.

  • Experiment with soaps, detergents, and emulsion of water and oil, investigate with chemistry in the kitchen by experimenting with sugar honey eggs and proteins.

  • Kit offers clear instructions for preparing and performing the experiments also gives safety advice offers explanation for the observed occurrences and asks and answers questions about the results. 

This kit contains:
Experiment Manual • Protective Safety Glasses • Four Test Tubes • Two Pipettes • Sodium Bisulfate • Sodium Carbonate • Potassium Hexa-cyanoferrate(II) • Calcium Hydroxide • Ammonium Iron(III) Sulfate • Ammonium Chloride • Copper(II) Sulfate • Litmus Powder • Hexamethyl-eneteramine • Screw-top Jar • Two Measuring Cups • Two Cup Lids • Test Tube Rack • Measuring Spoon • Test Tube Brush • Carbon Rod • Plastic Basin • Safety Lid Opener • Four Wires • Copper Wire • Battery Connector • Magnesium Strips • Light Bulb • Rubber Stopper • Cork Stopper • Pointed Glass Tube • Angled Glass Tube • Filter Paper

This kit works well with the advanced student or the beginner but I would follow the age recommendations. Some experiments are easier than others. We have used the manual to start small and build to more complex tasks. I would recommend constant parental supervision and a clean, clear area to use this set.

The Thames Kosmos Set retails for approximately $64.95.  Thames Kosmos has a wide variety of chemistry and other science related kits for children. For more information on the companies products, please visit their website at http://www.thamesandkosmos.com.

Give kids the tools to make science and chemistry fun. Put a Thames Kosmos Chemistry Set under the tree.



Disclosure: I received this item to review. All opinions are my own.

What are you putting in the kids' stockings?

Christmas morning is quickly approaching. Are you done shopping? I'm not!  Usually my stumbling block is stocking stuffers. I can't just buy stuff. I want items that the kids will enjoy and use. Plus, I'm trying to avoid lots of candy too.

Here are my suggestions for kids' stocking stuffers that will bring smiles to their faces.

Nanoblocks
These miniature 3D construction sets focus on tiny details. The super small sized blocks can create amazingly detailed creations. From planes to animals, there is a design for every like. Nanoblocks come in a variety of sizes and price ranges. They are produced by Ohio Art.

Holiday Specs
Who doesn't love looking at holiday lights? This year make the lights sparkle and shine even more with Holiday Specs. These glasses transform regular lights into cool designs. Options include gingerbread men, santa and ornaments. Single glasses and multi-packs can be purchased.

Tenkai Knights

Spin Master has a new twist on construction figures. These construction bricks shapeshift and change to become mini figures, action figures, weapons, gear, gadgets and more. Plus, these bricks are compatible with other construction sets. Kids can shapeshift, build and battle. The figures are based on the television show Tenkai Knights.

50 Pranks to Freak Your Friends
Who doesn't love a good laugh?  50 Pranks to Freak Your Friends shares the secrets behind some silly and fun pranks that will leave you on the floor laughing. Show off your mischievous side with this kit.

Rainbow Loom
Are your kids part of the Rainbow Loom craze?  This device allows kids to create bracelets, rings and necklaces out of little rubber bands. From starbursts to fishtails, the kids will have hours of fun creating new items to wear. 

Time to be amazed, Deluxe Legends of Magic - review

My husband and children love watching magic shows. From the slight of hand to the theatrical tricks, they sit on the edge of their seats waiting to be amazed. After the tricked is completed, the guys are awed.  They pepper me with questions like - how did they do that, what didn't I see, how can I learn magic?  This holiday season they will be able to learn the magic they love with the Deluxe Legends of Magic.

The Deluxe Legends of Magic offers an aspiring magician all the tools to learn the craft. With over 250 tricks in this set, kids can start with simple slight of hand and work their way to more complex tricks. The set comes with instructions, poster and a 90 minute DVD. The DVD provides visual instruction and inspiration from legendary magicians.

Once the kids learn the tricks of the trade, they can perform a magic show for the whole family. With the kit on the table, they can begin the show. With a full array of professional props, wand, production tubes, phantom deck, Chinese sticks, and linking rings, the kids are set to perform classic magic tricks.

I like that these tricks are easy to perform and to understand. While this kit does take away some of the mystique of magic, the kids enjoyed knowing the magician's secrets. As a parent, I liked that they were thinking and reasoning as they learned all the tricks.

The Deluxe Legends of Magic is recommended for ages 7 and older. It comes with professional props, a cardstock performance table, instructions and DVD. With this kit 250 tricks can be performed.

The Deluxe Legends of Magic retails for approximately $59.99 at CP Toys, Constructive Play Things.


 
 
Disclosure: I received this item to review. All opinions are my own.

More pieces, more to create K'NEX 521 Amazing Value Tub - review


What does your child like to create?  Building a tall skyscraper can be fun, but what about a motorcycle?  Will that motorcycle jump over the canyon?  Maybe your child likes dinosaurs. Would they smile at the chance to create a super large T-Rex who can stomp over the family room?  Give him the creative outlet that he needs with K'NEX. 

The 521 Amazing Value Tub Building Set gives kids endless creative outlets. With 521 parts, the kids have so many items to build. 

 The set includes instructions/ideas for 35 unique models including, dragsters, Ferris wheels, dinosaurs, creatures and more!  Parts and built models can be stored in the convenient storage tub. 

The suggested retail price $24.99. It is recommended for ages 7and up .  It can be purchased exclusively at Toys “R” Us. 


Disclosure: I received this item to review. All opinions are my own. 

Dip and dive to fun -K'NEX Typhoon Frenzy Roller Coaster - review

Roller coasters are amazing thrill rides. When you stomach plummets after the first drop followed by the  
g-force in the next turn, everyone is screaming and having fun. Bring that excitement to the playroom with K'NEX Typhoon Frenzy Roller Coaster.

K'NEX has a huge set of rods, connectors and track that can build a huge the fastest, most daring roller coaster. Build it tall with a winding drop or make multiple dips and turns. With 19 feet of track, the silver coaster car is on a ride of its life. If you can imagine it, K'NEX allows you to build it.

After you build your first coaster, check out the download exclusive instructions to build a second model. This set contains 649 pieces, motorized chain lift, 19 feet of track and silver coaster car. the motorized component required AA batteries.


With the amount of pieces and complexity of the build, this set is recommended for ages 9 and up.

The K'NEX Typhoon Frenzy Roller Coaster can be purchased online at the K'NEX website or at Toys R Us. It retails for approximately $39.99.





Disclosure: I received this item to review. All opinions are my own.
























Bring Mario off the console and into your playroom - K'Nex Mario Bowser's Castle - review


Mario has become one of the most popular characters for children. From the cartoons to the video games, many families have one or more Mario products in their homes. It is time to bring Mario and his friends off the screen and into your playroom with Super Mario 3D Land Bowser's Castle by K'NEX.

If you are familiar with the Mario video games, Bowser's Castle is usually the final area where Mario tries to defeat Bowser and rescue Princess Peach. K'NEX. Do you have the skill and knowledge to defeat Bowser?  Make it happen when you build Bowser's Castle.


The K'NEX Bowser's Castle has all the fun features direct from the video game. One new feature is the jump disk. This item allows Mario to run and jump just like he does in the game. Whether he's launching himself into the action or raising the flag in victory, Mario will rescue Princess Peach!

A few obstacles block Mario's path. From the spinning fire bars to moving platforms, each level offers a new challenge. Once Mario finds Bowser's hiding place, he can use the jump launcher to knock him down. In the end, Mario will save Princess Peach and raise the flag in victory.

The adventure that Mario takes is totally up to the kids. Maybe one time Mario succeeds and maybe another outcome is that Princess Peach saves herself. It's your adventure and your imagination. The building set gives players more flexibility than the video game. 

Bowser's Castle comes with the following:


  • Buildable course inspired by Super Mario™ 3D Land


  • Includes new jump disk and launcher


  • Buildable Mario figure


  • Buildable Bowser figure


  • Buildable Princess Peach figure


  • Battery-powered motor spins Draglet figure and Fire Bars


  • Track slider, moving Fire Balls and moving platforms also included


  • Collect the coins and hit the mystery box


  • Includes warp pipes and pop-up goal flag


  • EXCLUSIVE to this set: Draglet, Bowser's Castle Entrance Gate


  • Ages 8+


    K'NEX Super Mario 3D Land retails for $99.99. It can be purchased at the K'NEX website or Toys R Us. 


    Disclosure: I received this item to review. All opinions are my own.






















    Can you aim like Katniss, Air Huntress by ZING

    Powerful women characters can make any story. Katniss Everdeen, the heroine of the Hunger Game is one of those characters. She is known for her expertise with a bow and arrow (don't worry I won't ruin any plots). The ability to deftly aim at a target takes skill and practice. Now, girls everywhere can channel their inner Katniss with the Air Huntress by Zing.

    The best selling Zing air hunter gets decked out for girls. This new version is full of pink, purple and sparkles. It is the next generations of Z-Curve Bow. It offers the same play value as the original Curve Bow except the boys won't steal this fashionable one.

    The Air Huntress Z-Curve Bow can launch soft-foam ammo over 125 feet. The bow can be used with Z-Arrows or stick anywhere suction cup Zartz. The Air Huntress comes with two Z-Arrows and one Zartz.

    With many toys, this item is intended for outdoor use. Kids and parents should use good judgment with its use. 

    The Air Huntress and the Z-Curve Bow was named to the Toy Insider's Must-Have Toys for Spring and Summer Guide in the Outdoor Category.

    Zing offers a wide variety of outdoor play toys. Fun options include Sky Rippers, Zoom Rockets and ZoomZooka.

    Zing produces toys that focus on high performance fun. These simple yet innovative products make any time play time. The company is on a mission to get kids off the couch and outside playing. For more information on any of the Zing products, please visit the website at www.zingtoys.com.


    Disclosure: I received this item to review. All opinions are my own. 

    Ready to rock, K'NEX KISS Rock Stage Big Rig Building Set - review


    KISS is the flamboyant rock back with a long list of hits. The stage antics and elaborate performances is part of the rock band's lore. Now, families can bring the iconic band home and build its stage for themselves.

    KISS Rock Stage Big Rig Building Set 
    The band KISS rocks more than just Detroit City! Known for their theatrics as much as their musicianship, KISS offers the KISS Nation a great show. For the fan in your house, bring the fun home in the Rock Stage Big Rig Building Set. This set from K'nex comes with a building concert set and the following figures
    The Demon, The Spaceman, The Catman and The Starchild. Don't forget the roadies figures will help pack up their equipment and drive the band off to their next event. This set includes over 300 pieces and figurines. 

    This set is recommended for ages 7 and up. It can be purchased at Toys R Us or online at knex.com. Estimated retail price is  $29.99.

    Are you ready to rock with K'Nex building set this holiday season?

    Little fingers create imaginative structures with Lincoln Logs - review

    When a child creates what she imagines, she gains a sense of accomplishment. It shows her that anything is possible. From the tallest building to the largest house, she can build that structure of her dreams. Giving a small child the chance to build with the right building blocks can create a love of building and imagination. Lincoln Logs are an iconic building set that kids and adults love.

    This classic toy has quite a history. John Lloyd Wright first produced Lincoln Logs in 1916 and obtained a patent in 1920. The simplicity of design and durability of the product has kept it successful to this day. 

    K'NEX has a variety of Lincoln Log sets that can begin the love of building.The pieces are easy for little fingers to build cabins, outposts or a special house. The creation offers more play with the building accessories and play figures.

    Each set comes with step by step instructions for building a ranch. Kids can imagine great adventures for the cowboy and his horse. From riding the range to building an outpost, Lincoln Logs offer hours of fun. The bonus for parents is that all the parts come in a collectible storage containers, which makes clean-up quick and easy.



    Lincoln Logs, the Redfield Ranch, is sold online at knex.com or at Toys R Us. It retails for approximately for $40.99. It is recommended for ages 3 and up.




    Disclosure: I received this item to review. All opinions are my own.







    Introduce Ringo and Paul to your kids, K'Nex Build the Yellow Submarine - review

    When I listen to my kids' music, sometimes I wonder what is that noise. I don't know if all of these artists will stand the test of time. But one iconic band, the Beatles, will always be on the top of my playlist.

    One day, I played the Beatles One album for my kids. I was pleasantly surprised that they enjoyed the music. It got us talking about bands, music and the movie, The Yellow Submarine. This year, the kids are getting K'Nex Build the Yellow Submarine building set.

    The K'nex Build the Yellow Submarine building set is a scene out of the classic movie. Now we can re-create the submarine from the movie in our family room. This building set includes John, Paul, George, Ringo and two Blue Meanie figures. Do you remember the The Blue Meanies? 

    With the figures, kids can battle the Blue Meanies or jam on the concert stage, since the submarine doubles as a concert stage. Even if the kids don't recognize the film or the band, they can have fun building the submarine and playing the figures.

    The Build the Yellow Submarine contains 226 pieces. It is recommended for ages 7 and up.

    This K'nex building set can be purchased at Toys R Us or at K'nex website. It retails for approximately $29.99.


    Disclosure: I received this item to review. All opinions are my own.












    Silhouette Holiday Promotion, huge savings November 28 through December 8


    When it comes to the holidays, everyone is thinking about holiday memories. What better way to save your precious family moments with beautifully designed scrapbook pages, memory books and cards. Silhouette offers a variety of products to help create perfect crafts for any occasion. 

    For Black Friday, Silhouette is offers HUGE savings on some of their most popular products. This Black Friday promotion lasts from November 28 through December 8.

    Here are the special savings. 


    (1)          A Silhouette CAMEO®, Silhouette Studio® Designer Edition Software, a dust cover (the color is decided by Silhouette), a $25 download card, a hook, a scraper, a spatula, and a pick-me-up® tool for $229.99. Retail price for all of this would total $406.93 (over 40% savings!)
    (2)          A Silhouette Portrait®, Silhouette Studio® Designer Edition Software, a dust cover (the color is decided by Silhouette), a $25 download card, a hook, a scraper, a spatula, and a pick-me-up® tool for $129.99. Retail price for all of this would total $286.93 (over 40% savings!)
    (3)          A Silhouette CAMEO®, a Silhouette Portrait®, and two $25 download cards for $299.99. That’s right: If you buy a Silhouette CAMEO® at full price, you get two $25 download cards and a Silhouette Portrait® ABSOLUTELY FREE! Retail price for all of this would be $406.93 (over 40% savings!)
    (4)          40% off consumable products at silhouetteamerica.com. This excludes machines, subscriptions, download and gift cards. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Rain checks not available.
    (5)          FREE SHIPPING on orders over $25.


    To take advantage of all these great savings - enter promo code 
    MOMSBUCK at checkout

    Nanoblock, 3D structures in the palm of your hand - review



    As kids get older, the challenge to build an amazing creation grows. While kids might think a design that fills an entire room is fabulous, parents might beg to differ. While large structures are impressive, attention to the smallest detail requires finesse. Nanoblock requires skill, patience and the precision to build small.

    Nanoblock is micro-sized building block. While the pieces may be small, the attention to detail is great. These 3D models adhere to the smallest details. The finished product can fit perfectly in the palm of your hand.


    With these micro-sized building blocks, 3D models take shape right beneath your fingers. Since the blocks are quite small, this set requires patience and attention to detail. I would recommend a quite, clean space to work. Also, nimble fingers are an asset.

    The P-51 Mustang has over 480 assorted pieces. Even with all these pieces, the finished details is quite astounding. The finished size is   H: 6.25"w x 7.28"d x 4.3"h”. This plane can fit in the palm of your hand.

    An American fighter plane, the P-51 Mustang was a single-seat aircraft used in World War II and the Korean War. It was considered one of the most efficient fighters used in World War II. Today there are nearly 300 P-51 Mustangs left in the world and over half of them are still airworthy.

    This set includes detailed color instructions. With the small pieces and extreme detail, it is not intended for children under 8 years old. Please consider your child and his competence in building when considering this toy. 


    The Nanoblock P-51 Mustang retails for $49.99. 

    Nanoblock can be purchased online at the Ohio Art website, at Toys R Us and at other retailers. 


    Disclosure: I received this item to review. All opinions are my own. 

    Be a professional prankster, Fifty Pranks to Freak Your Friends - review, Holiday Gift Guide

    With the holiday shopping season here, Reeves International provided my family with toys to review. All opinions are my own.

    Kids love to laugh and pull pranks. From the slumber party jokes to the carpool shenanigans, pulling the wool over a friend's eyes can be hilarious. Expand your repertoire and become the supreme prankster with Fifty Pranks to Freak Your Friends, by Marvin's Magic.


     Fifty Pranks to Freak Your Friends is a set of special props and instructions to perform fifty practical jokes and stunts.These easy to perform tricks will get everyone shrieking with laughter.

    My kids enjoy making each other laugh. From the silly bodily humor jokes to the silly phrases, kids can enjoy the idea of making fun. With this activity kit, the kids were given permission to do the outrageous and not get in trouble.

    Most of the pranks are easy to follow and require little effort, but some practice. While the kids loved the idea of the cup in the water trick or the spilled coffee, they did tire of cleaning up the mess. Other props were great to pull on friends during carpool and didn't have the "spill" factor.

    This game is produced by Marvin's Magic. This company offers a wide variety of magic, illusion and trick items.

    Fifty Pranks to Freak Your Friends can be purchased from Reeves International website for $25.00.


    Disclosure: I received this item to review. All opinions are my own.

    Fun never dries out with Skwooshi - review





    Kids like to play, create and use their imagination. Mold-able clay is a great way for them to explore their inner artistic side. From exotic animals to tall buildings, every pull, roll and stack of the clay is unique. The biggest problem with mold-able clay was that it would dry out, crack and break. Skwooshi is the clay that will never dry out. 

    Skwooshi is the cool new compound that stretches, molds, and shapes into amazing detail with no mess and will never dry out. Kids can mold, stretch, combine and roll the clay over and over. As a parent, I enjoy that there are no little pieces of clay left on the table, floor or on clothing. The Skwooshi keeps playing as long as your kids want to use it.

    Each box of Skwooski  comes with three different colors of Skwooshi and 10 activity tools. My kids liked using the activity tools. They enjoyed cutting out shapes and creating a little scene of clay. From stars and clouds to little buildings, their imagination was in over drive. 


    A great aspect to Skwooski is that it is wheat and gluten free. My kids have a friend that cannot touch wheat. Since other clay product contain wheat, we couldn't use it during a play date. With Skwooshi I can safely have this toy out without concern.

    For more information on Skwooshi, please visit its website, Facebook page or Twitter account

    Give your kids endless imaginative play with Skwooshi. 


    Disclosure: I received this product to review. All opinions are my own.


    De-stress from the holiday pressures with Puritan's Pride supplements - review

    After pulling out the winter coats and Halloween decorations, I know that the holidays are fast approaching. While I love the holidays, I get stressed. From cooking, baking and hosting guests, the festive season comes with additional stress and pressure. The question becomes how I can enjoy the holidays yet combat the stress. Puritan's Pride supplements can be the answer. 

    Puritan's Pride is a vitamin and supplement company. For over 40 years, the company has been committed to providing the finest quality nutritional supplements at the best value.  From daily vitamins to specifically targeted supplements, Puritan's Pride offers a wide variety of options for your life. When it comes to using supplements it is always important to consult with your health care provider and consider your overall health before starting any regime.

    Getting back to stress and life's complications. The question is how do you combat the stress in a way that your body can benefit and not deteriorate. While a glass of wine at night could do the trick, the alcohol in my diet isn't necessarily good for my waist line nor my overall diet. Puritan's Pride has a Holiday Survival Kit that can help de-stress the natural way. 

    Included in the Holiday Survival Kit includes:

    Vitamin B-12 1000mcg Timed Release-1380
    Aromappeal- Lavender 100% Pure Essential Oil # 60115
    Cozy Chamomile Herb Tea-#70963
    Melatonin with St. John’s Wort 3mg/900mg 51829
    Valerian Root 450 mg #3390

    So why do these supplements help combat stress? Here's a little info on how each item works.


    Why should anyone consider taking Vitamin B-12?
    B-12 vitamins can support energy metabolism in the body.* Vitamin B-12 is essential for the normal formation of blood cells, contributes to the health of the nervous system and promotes heart function.* Vitamin B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin which helps maintain circulatory health and helps keep your gums and mouth healthy.*

    How can I use essential oils?
    The art of aromatherapy can be traced back to the great ancient civilizations of Egypt, Greece and Rome where essential oils were valued for their many uses. Essential oils such as Lavender can be used to provide tranquility and serenity, meditation and overall soothing and comforting, especially when used in massage.
    What are some uses for Chamomile Tea?                   
    Chamomile is an herb that people have used for centuries. The soothing effect of a warm cup of chamomile tea is ideal during these busy times of year.

    How do Melatonin with St. John’s work in combination? 
    Puritan’s Pride Melatonin with St. John’s Wort is a nighttime sleep aid used by people who experience occasional sleeplessness and want a good night’s rest.*  Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced in the body that is closely involved in the natural sleep cycle and is excellent for those experiencing jet lag or occasional sleeplessness.* St. John’s Wort has been used for centuries as a tonic and helps promote mental well-being and peaceful mood.* Contains 900 mg of St. John's Wort Extract and 3 mg of Melatonin per serving. 
    What are some uses for Valerian Root?
    Valerian works in harmony with your natural cycle to help promote relaxation, so you can leave your busy day behind and get the tranquil rest you deserve.*

    Over the past couple of weeks, I have tried these supplements on and off as needed. My favorite item is the Chamomile Tea. It has been a great way to end a hectic day. Usually by the end of the day, I am cold, tired and beat. A cup of warm Chamomile Tea while watching a show on the couch has let me forget about the chaos of the day. 

    My second favorite item was the B-12 supplements. I admit that my diet tends to suffer when I am stressed. From too much caffeine to poor food choices, my body can lack energy. The B-12 has left me with a boost in my energy and overall willingness to get up and move. The days are long but I'm getting through them. 

    When it comes to supplements and your holiday season, it is best to understand your triggers, difficulties and obstacles. By finding ways to combat these issues, your holiday season can seem a little brighter. 


    For more information on these products and other offerings, please visit the Puritan's Pride website, Facebook page and Twitter

    Don't be overwhelmed this holiday season. Find a way to cope with a Puritan's Pride Holiday Survival Kit.


    Disclosure: I received these items to review. All opinions are my own. 

       *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

    Travel the 50 states in your living room with 10 Days to Travel the US game - review

    Have you taken your family on a road trip? The idea sounds exciting. Seeing the historical high points in each state, stopping to visit relatives or just driving to see our country's beautiful scenery. Unfortunately, the amount of time in a car can be bothersome (Are we there yet? He's touching me!) what if you could travel the country from your own living room? You can in 10 Days in the USA.

    From Out of the Box Games comes 10 Days in the USA. This game has players arrive at a destination by traveling throughout the United States. Players travel by train, plane, boat, car or on foot. The goal is to be the first player to complete a ten-day journey.

    The game begins by each player drawing cards to complete their 10 day journey. Cards include the 50 states and transportation cards. The goal is to be the first player to complete a 10 day journey.A ten day journey is considered complete when, starting with DAY 1, each day is connected to the next day in the tile holder. The completed journey must also meet the following criteria:
    • Completed journeys must start with a state tile and end with a state tile.
    • It is not necessary to include either an airplane or an automobile tile to complete a ten day journey.
    • Transportation tiles, next to each other, do not form a connection.

    The key to doing well in this game is your knowledge of geography. For example, can you reach West Virgina via Pennsylvania by foot or do you have to fly (you can reach West Virginia by foot because they are boarding states). Knowing your states and locations is the way to win this game.

    I like this game for children because it gives them a  better understanding of USA geography. I am sad to say that my kids didn't know that New Mexico bordered Arizona. So, for us, this game was a great way to start a discussion about geography and traveling the United States. Also, we were able to discuss the various states that our family has visited together and how we traveled to them. For example, our kids know that we can travel to Wisconsin via car, but we usually travel to Florida by train. I can see how this game can grow with my kid and can re-enforce the information that they learn in school.

    Ten Days in the USA retails for approximately $27.99. Other games similar to the USA version is 10 Days in Europe, 10 Days in the Americas, 10 Days in Africa, and 10 Days in Africa.

    Next time the kids ask where are we going on vacation, grab the Ten Days in the USA game and start a fun yet intelligent discussion on US geography.



    Disclosure: I received this game to review. All opinions are my own.