Tuesday, February 24, 2015

Preparing for Our #DisneySide Party

I am super excited to be one of the hosts of the #DisneySide Celebrations this year. As always, I try to do way more than I really need to, so I am still working on some of my ideas, but this is what I have so far.


We are having a multi- generation party and will have guests ranging from age 1 to over 50. We are planning to use the games in the packet and add some of our own as well. For the smaller kids, a coloring contest, costume contest and marshmallow pickup will be fun and easy enough for all. The older kids will be doing puzzles, maybe a treasure hunt to the pirate ship outside (depending on the weather) and other fun games. Teens and adults will be doing trivia, word search and brain games. This way everyone has a chance to join the fun and win a prize too.

I have gathered a ton of prize items, some for games, door prizes and more. Look at the cute nail polishes and Mickey soaps!! I can't wait!!


Monday, February 23, 2015

Minzos 4-In-1 TurboPen for Tablet & SmartPhone Review




With all the devices, toys and other technology around the house, it seems someone is always needing something for one of them. Someone always needs batteries, cases, cover and especially a stylus. I have no idea what they do with them, but there never seem to be any on hand when they are needed.

When I was given the opportunity to review the Minzos TurboPen, I knew it was perfect for the kids. This would allow them to have a stylus to use, but one that had other purposes and could be stored as such. Instead of keeping this in their rooms with their devices, I could store it in the pen holder and everyone would have access to it.

The first thing I noticed was how bright the light was. I honestly expected it to be a dull light but it had more power than I assumed in that little pen. It works great for seeing into small spaces and is perfect for keeping in your purse or desk for emergencies.

The laser light on this is fun to use. It makes an excellent pointer for class, works well for attracting attention and is fun to play with the cat too. It is the perfect accessory for my sons science fair project, allowing him to highlight areas as he explains the different parts.

The pen tip works well and writes in black ink, making it handy for normal use and excellent for emergencies too. It writes smoothly and prints clearly without runs or blank spots.

The stylus is nice and soft, making it great for avoiding scratches on your screens. The tip seems a bit large to me though. I found myself hitting the wrong buttons with it often, but then again, that may just be me because the kids didn't seem to have any issues with it.

All in all this would make a great tool for any student or adult. It is handy to have in your office, car, briefcase or purse for a variety of uses. This would also make a great gift for any tech fan or someone who always has their phone in their hand.

**I received a sample item for review. No other compensation was received and all opinions are my own.

Saturday, February 14, 2015

Beejuvenate All Natural Beeswax Premium Skin Balm Review



As the days and weeks pass me by, I find myself making more of an effort to find and use products that help to slow down the signs of aging. I look for sun protection in everything and always have an eye searching for words like "healing, smoothing and softening".

Of course, then I have the ingredient concern. What exactly is in this miracle product that promises to keep me looking young?  Considering some of the ingredients I have come across, I just might prefer to have a few of those wrinkles than to slather on a blend of unknown compounds, so "natural" is a word I look for too.



The Beejuvenate Natural Beeswax Balm caught my attention for two reasons. It says Natural right there in the name, and the ingredients list was full of words I recognize and understand. This is what it says on the jar.

Contains: Beeswax, Coconut, Safflower, Shea Butter, Grape Seed, Kukui, Emu, Macadamia, Cocoa Butter, Avocado, Apricot Kernel and Hemp Seed. As soon as I read the list, my first thought was how delicious this sounded. The mix of ingredients that I have used before made me much more comfortable in giving this a try.

The balm is so thick it forms a solid in the jar. It took a bit of pressure to break into it enough to remove some of the balm, but once I did, it was well worth it. It only takes a small amount of this to do the trick. I was able to cover my elbows and both hands with a dollop the size of a large pea. It smooths onto the skin easily and covers well.

Like any product containing beeswax and oils, this does have a bit of a greasy feel to it. It isn't slippery or bothersome, but it is there.You notice the balm for only a few minutes before it soaks into the skin enough that it doesn't feel oily anymore.  It also has a soft, soothing scent to it that smells like the coconut and Shea butter to me. This is not a bad or overwhelming scent, but a nice, relaxing one.

I plan to keep this on my desk so the kids can use it when coming and going. I imagine it will work well during the cold weather for their hands and faces.

*I received a sample item for review purposes. Al opinions are my own.




Friday, February 13, 2015

Rash Guard Mens Shirt Review






My husband  and my oldest son are addicted to wearing those silky long sleeved athletic shirts.They wear them for everything from avoiding the sun to blocking the bitter cold while they go about their various activities. They have several different types and styles in a variety of colors between them and are always looking for new ones to try.

My pals at Legend Rash Guards sent me an awesome men's shirt in a glossy black to try. As soon as I opened it, my son said he had to have it. He loved that it was thicker than some of the other shirts he has, so it is perfect for layering in these freezing Ohio temperatures. He really likes the fit of it too. He loves that he can wear it under a shirt or alone and it looks and feels great.


The shirts are available in a variety of sizes and several colors so you can even match them to your other clothing or wear a different one each day. The shirts are nicely made with a soft nylon/spandex blend, giving them plenty of flexibility without becoming stretched or out of shape. If you go a size or two larger you can wear this in a more loose fitting form too without it being baggy and unattractive looking.  My boys think this is perfect for skateboarding and BMX, when they want a little give but not loose or hanging clothing. 



The best part about these shirts is that they keep you feeling fresh and in control. The material is breathable while still protective and it helps you stay cool and dry, no matter how intense the workout. They maintain their comfort through hunting, shooting, racing, working out, running and more. 

*I received a sample item for review purposes. All opinions are my own. 



Sunday, February 8, 2015

My Influenster #FrostyVoxBox

I have told you before about being a member of Influenster. This awesome group sends out boxes of fabulous products for us to try and test, and let me tell you they are always full of fantastic iteems. My most recent shipment was the #FrostyVoxBox.

Inside this box was a wide array of different products anyone would be thrilled to test. I received-


NYC Expert Last Lip Color in Sugar Plum-
Not only does this color apply smoothly but it stays put during normal daily activities. It provides a nice overall color without smudges or thick spots and looks great. This comes in a simple twist top case that allows you to apply it in seconds and go on your way. I love the satiny looking finish and the lack of color coming off everywhere else.

Rimmel London Gentle Eye Make Up Remover-
This is one of the fastest working removers I have tried. It takes only seconds to remove everything from shadow to liner and doesn't leave my skin feeling dry after use. It takes only a small amount to do the job, so the bottle will last quite awhile before needing replaced.

Rimmel London Scandal Eyes Waterproof Mascara-
I received this awesome liner in the Kohl color to review. The first thing I noticed about this eyeliner is how darkly it applies. There is no need for going back over a line to darken it, you get a smooth finish in just one swoop. The eyeliner stays put throughout the day and removes easily too.

Boots No7 Protect and Perfect Serum-
I received a sample size of this in my box. The serum is almost silky feeling to the touch. It was a bit more runny than I would have liked, but it wasn't too difficult to apply. It is designed to reduce pores and restore radiance to the face. It is a non-greasy serum that leaves your skin looking and feeling more soft and supple.

Celestial Seasonings Candy Cane Tea-
I am not big on flavored teas but I thought I would give this one a try. I love that the package came with two bags, allowing me to use more than 1 if I felt the need. I didn't find this tea to be quite strong enough for my liking. It had both a weak tea and a weak mint flavor to it where I would have preferred both to be more noticeable.

Eco Tools Hair Brush-
I love the multi-function design of this brush. It provides both brushing and detangling bristles for maximum results and comfort. The handle is a sturdy wooden design that allows a comfortable grip while using this product. It works well on long hair and did a good job of removing the tangles from my daughter's hair without a lot of hassle and fuss.

Fruit Vines Bites-
These super chewy fruity snacks are great for kids. They are small enough that they can have a few pieces for a serving, but not so small that you can't taste them individually. The snacks we tried were Strawberry flavored and you could taste the fruity essence to them easily. They weren't too strong, but strong enough that you could identify the flavor with ease.

McCormick Thyme-
I loved the glass bottle this thyme came in. It is cute, yet small enough to fit in with your other spices easily. This features a flip-top lid that allows for easy dispensing and can be opened one handed if need be. The actual spice inside was not old or dried out and had a nice flavor to it. This has been used several times already and I even had another kind already opened before this one!

All in all I loved my #FrostyVoxBox and all the fun stuff inside it. Thanks to the sponsors and the people at Influenster for allowing us to be part of the testing!








Shop Candy Crate for Valentine's Day

You only have a little less than a week before Valentine's Day. I know many of you still don't have something for that special someone in your life, but you still have time to grab the perfect sweet treat from Candy Crate. 


If you are looking for something a little unconventional, a giant sized gummy treat could be it. You can get these in several designs including bears, bunnies, gators and skulls. They are so unique making them perfect for gift giving.



There are a selection of gift boxes and baskets filled with fun candy mixes too. From modern choices to new versions of old favorites, there are so many yummy candy options to select from. You can purchase an already made gift or build one yourself for an extra personal touch. 


Of course, there are tried and true options like chocolate galore and stuffed friends too. I love this adorable bear and would be thrilled to receive it for Valentine's Day. Hint, Hint to my darling  husband if he is reading this :).

You can find adult selections, choices for kids and more at Candy Crate. What do you still need to get for Valentine's Day?



*This is not a sponsored or paid post. I just wanted to share some ideas with you.

Sunday, February 1, 2015

50 Shades of Grey at the Studio Movie Grill

I know how many of you are excited to watch 50 Shades of Grey. I read the books, so I know what you mean. While I personally am not impressed with the people chosen to play the roles, I know there are a ton of people waiting to sit with their eyes glued to the screen, and a lot of happy partners that night too!

I found the perfect place to enjoy the show if you live near Columbus, Ohio. Studio Movie Grill will be showing this long awaited film starting February 13th, making it a nice way to celebrate Valentine's Day. You can take in the movie in relaxation mode and even order food or drinks to be delivered right to your seats!

Yes, you read that right. At Studio Movie Grill you can choose from a number of  starters, entrees, dessert and drinks using this in-theater dining experience. Simply press the button and the server comes right to your seat to take care of your needs.

There is even a lounge so you can grab a drink, relax with friends or enjoy the atmosphere before and after the show. They offer daily drink specials, a kids menu, private screenings, reserved seating and much more to make visiting them a special treat. You even get 4 hour parking for only $2. Well worth it to save a long walk to the car after the show and get home that much faster ;).

*I was provided with free tickets to visit a show and try the experience. All opinions are my own.