Family Summer Films from Phase 4 (2 of 3)

 

Summer is in full swing and the days are long and busy are you looking for a quite night of fun have a movie night! Here is our second installment in our rainy day movie series from phase 4. Below are three family friendly films that were released this July from phase 4.

• Description: Mischievous thirteen-year-old Ben is sent to his grandfather’s farm for the summer, where he crosses paths with a lovable mutt. With help from the unlikely canine companion, Ben learns the importance of friendship, family and responsibility. When life gets tough for Ben, a friendly paw is all it takes to pull him through.
• Smitty has a run time of 94 minutes and is rated PG.
• Special Features: the Making of Smitty and Official trailer
• Available at Redbox locations, Target, Walmart and Amazon.com.

Our Thoughts: I loved this movie and as most parents of the under 5 set know, any live action film that hold our children’s attentions is a keeper. Both my toddlers liked this movie and have asked to watch it again. It will definitely be in our family movie night lineup again.

• Description: Being small doesn't make life easy for little ten-year-old Victor and his friends, who not only have to face a world full of stern grown-ups but also the town bully Freddy Frogface. When a circus comes to the sleepy little town, Victor is thrilled at having the chance to perform in a talent show with his dog Sausage. Yet Freddy soon comes up with a sinister plot of his own to spoil Victor´s plans...
• Freddy Frogface has a 85 minute run time and is rated PG.
• Special Features: Downloadable Activity Kit, Trailer, and The making of Freddy Frogface
• Available at Redbox locations, Target, Walmart and Amazon.com.

Our Thoughts: This movie was terrible. I know that the rating says PG for rude humor and mild bulling themes, but It was riddled with curse words and gave off a unacceptable theme. I’m hoping that the makers of the film were not intentionally trying to portray that Bullying is not only OK but encouraged. Unfortunately that’s exactly what the film insinuates by having the main character turning into a bully himself when dealing with the town bully. Seeing as how Bulling is a epidemic right now causing many children each year to hurt themselves, I really feel that a movie like this dropped the ball on how to handle the bully situation.

• Description: Follow Rucio, the most adventurous, brave, and mischievous donkey of Castile as he tells the true story of the legendary Don Quixote. Rucio jumps at the opportunity to join Don Quixote on his quest to battle The Half Moon Knight and overcome the dangerous obstacles that lurks them on the way!
• Donkey X has a 90 minute run time and is rated PG.
• Special Features: English, Spanish and French language tracks, and Trailer
• Available at Redbox locations, Target, Walmart and Amazon.com.

Our Thoughts: This is a cute film that adds on to the original story of Don Quixote. My children loved the move and all the antics the donkey does to prove he is a real horse.

If your on Pinterest join the Pin It To Win It promotion featured here: http://pinterest.com/kaboomfilms/ You’ll have the opportunity to re-pin the graphic and share your pin links in the comments below the contest graphic to win complete set of the summer films in this summer's promotion. To learn more about these films and others by phase 4 visit their website: www.phase4films.com.

Disclosure: I received the movies above and snacks from Childs Play communications and phase 4 in exchange for my honest review and all views are my own.

Family Summer Films from Phase 4 (1 of 3)

 

Summer means outdoor playtime, lazy days at the beach/pool and lots of backyard barbeques. But what do you do when rainy days roll around?
Don’t fret! Phase 4 films is releasing eight new family-friendly films that are sure to keep kids entertained rain or shine! All films will be easily accessible to rent at Redbox locations and for purchase at retailers nationwide starting this summer.

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to share with you these new films. As moms of toddlers know new movies are manna from heaven after watching the same movie over, and over, and over, and over 100x. Are you starting to get a mental picture here? Although the first half of our summer was busy it has started to slow a bit, add some rain and we have been stuck indoors for over a week. So when our package came with these movies everyone was excited. This will be a 3 post series starting with the June release movies below and look out for posts 2 and 3. You wont want to miss these great movies.

• Description: Dreamzone has been a peaceful and a magical kingdom under the rule of King Maximus. That’s about to change when he is captured and imprisoned by his evil brother Dreadmis. When he unleashes his vengeance upon the kingdom, the King’s daughter, courageous Princess Kiara must conquer evil and restore harmony in Dreamzone. Together with her best friend Super Kloud, they embark on a magical journey to protect their Kingdom and bring the rightful owner back to the throne.
• Kiara The Brave has an 80 minute run time and is rated PG.
• Special Features: Slide Show, Trailer, and Downloadable Activity Kit
• Available at Redbox locations, Target, Walmart and Amazon.com.

Our Thoughts: My daughter wanted to watch this movie first but after a few minutes the children quickly became bored and moved on. DO NOT confuse this with the Disney Pixar movie BRAVE. you will be setting your self up for disappointment. Also if you are looking for a movie with a female heroine this is not it, the title is misleading and Kiara is only in 3-4 scenes.  I really don’t have anything good to say about this movie and I doubt it will become one of our favorites.

• Description: An exciting animated tale based on the true story of Belka and Strelka, two dogs sent to space in 1960. Belka and Strelka are a circus dog and a rough and tumble stray who embark on an out of this world adventure, humble becoming the world’s most famous canine cosmonauts.
• Space Dogs has an 88 minute run time and is rated G.
• Special Features: Slide Show, Trailer, and Downloadable Activity Kit
• Available at Redbox locations, Target, Walmart and Amazon.com.

Our Thoughts: My son was thrilled with this movie Dogs + Space = HEAVEN!! Our whole family loved this film and we found ourselves laughing along with all the antics. The movie also has it's occasional teary moments, but most of the movie is comical and fun. I really liked that it was based off a true story and my children got to learn a hidden history lesson.

If your on Pinterest join the Pin It To Win It promotion featured here: http://pinterest.com/kaboomfilms/ You’ll have the opportunity to re-pin the graphic and share your pin links in the comments below the contest graphic to win complete set of the summer films in this summer's promotion. To learn more about these films and others by phase 4 visit their website: www.phase4films.com.

 

Disclosure: I received the movies above and snacks from Childs Play communications and phase 4 in exchange for my honest review and all views are my own.

Huggies Mom Inspired Grant Program

Huggies recognizes that there is a dynamic and talented community of moms who strive to make life as a parent easier and more enjoyable every day.  Now in its third year, the Huggies® MomInspired™ grant program celebrates the natural creativity of moms, who solve real parenting challenges every day in innovative ways.

• Grant recipients will receive $15,000 in seed capital as well as business resources to help turn innovative ideas into real-life inventions.
• Applications for the 2012 Huggies MomInspired grant program are currently being accepted through July 31, 2012.
• Moms can learn more and submit original, innovative and viable new business and product ideas now at HuggiesMomInspired.com.
• Grants will be announced and awarded in fall 2012. 

Previous grant recipients have developed products such as:

• Nausea relief band to ease pregnancy symptoms
• Magnetic baby clothing for easy diaper changes
• Sleep coaching

Find out more information about the Huggies MomInspired grant program, past recipients and submit innovative ideas, please visit HuggiesMominspired.com.

Frigidaire Adventures in Clean

In the upcoming Disney film, The Odd Life of Timothy Green, Jennifer Garner plays a mother who embarks on the ultimate adventure in clean when a son magically springs to life in her garden. At this moment, her character understands what every mother knows: life is full of messy adventures.

To celebrate magical moments like this, Frigidaire, makers of the Frigidaire Affinity® front load washing machine that delivers a better clean, has set out to help get families out of the laundry room quickly and on to the things they love to do. Laundry expert Tara Aronson shares solutions for the 5 most common summertime stains and 10 tips for getting clothes cleaner.

10 Steps to Cleaner Clothes for Frigidaire by Tara Aronson
You can share a few of your favorite tips from the list below:

1. Immediately rinse or blot away spills on your clothes with cool water to prevent stains from setting.
2. Read fabric care labels before you wash. Your clothes will last longer if you know how to treat them.
3. Sort laundry by color, wash cycle needed, and water temperature required. The Frigidaire Affinity’s Permanent Press cycle washes with warm water and less agitation, resulting in less wear and tear on your sturdy jeans, khakis, and sweaters; the Delicates cycle uses cold water and light agitation to gently clean swimsuits, workout clothes, and lingerie.
4. Before washing stained garments, pretreat or prewash the spot using the Affinity’s Rinse & Spin cycle. If at first you don’t succeed, wash, wash again.
5. To keep snags and lint to a minimum, zip zippers, button buttons, empty pockets, and brush away lint before tossing duds in the hamper.
6. If your clothing is heavily soiled, your load large, or the water cold, add extra laundry detergent. Use the Affinity’s Heavy Duty cycle for sturdy but really dirty items like jeans and towels; choose the Sanitize setting to use the hottest water available to get rid of germs and grime as thoroughly as possible.
7. Check wet garments for remaining stains, and re-treat as needed before drying. Heat will set stains.
8. Dry only full loads. Tumbling a handful of garments prolongs the drying time by reducing the tumbling.
9. Fold shirts and T-shirts to prevent wrinkling. If the shirt has buttons, button it at top, middle and bottom. Lay facedown. Fold both sides of the shirt so they meet in the back, with the sleeves aligned with the side folds. Fold the tail up to the cuffs, making a straight line at the bottom. Then fold in thirds crosswise. For T-shirts: a child’s T-shirt needs only one crosswise fold in half; an adult’s should be folded into thirds.
10. Fold shorts and pants by aligning the inseams and outer seams of the legs and fold so that a crease forms at the front center of the legs. Fold in half or in thirds, depending on the size of the garment.

5 Summer Stain Tips or Frigidaire by Tara Aronson

Smudges, drips, drops and smears – no matter what their source, the key to keeping them from ruining your favorite shorts or T-shirt is to take quick action – before it gets a chance to dry.

For most fabrics, this means blotting up the excess or rinsing the discolored area with cold water (hot can set a stain.) Don’t rub: this spreads the spot and grinds it deeper into the fabric.

Summer spills are especially tough. Here’s how to remove the five most common:

1. Crayon.
Scrape off as much of the colorful surface as possible using a plastic picnic knife. Apply laundry detergent directly on the stained area. Gently rub the detergent into the fabric then let sit several minutes. Launder using the hottest water the fabric can handle - or the Sanitize setting of your Frigidaire Affinity washer. Dry as usual.

2. Iced coffee.
Sponge the stained area with cold water. Apply a pre-treater to the blight. Wash as usual and air dry.

3. Grass.
Prewash the garment in warm water in your washing machine –the Rinse & Spin cycle on your Affinity washer – and a laundry detergent containing enzymes. Launder as usual (normal setting) with detergent and chlorine bleach if safe for the fabric. If the garment’s care label instructions advise against it, use oxygen (color safe) bleach instead. Dry as usual.

4. Juice.
Soak for a minute or so in cold water. Remove excess water, and then apply a pre-treater directly on the stained area. Wash with detergent as usual. Air dry. Do not place in the dryer until the blight is completely gone – otherwise the stain is likely to set.

5. Chocolate (or chocolate ice cream).
Prewash the garment in warm water with a laundry detergent that contains enzymes using the Affinity’s Rinse & spin setting. Launder as usual, using the washing machine’s Normal setting. Dry as usual.

Keep the list above handy this summer you never know when you’ll need it. :) Also, when you visit Facebook.com/Frigidaire and share your personal Adventures in Clean, Frigidaire will donate $1 to Save the Children, as part of its $750,000 commitment to the cause. It’s simple to share your Adventures in Clean – just upload a photo and the online app turns it into your very own movie poster! Plus, to help spread the word, everyone who participates will be entered for a chance to win a new Frigidaire Affinity® washer and dryer featuring Ready Steam™.  DROOL!!!! That is my dream laundry room set.

 

 

disclosure: by posting, I’m eligible for a drawing and But all opinions are my own.

Book Review: Trusting GOD, A Girlfriends in God Faith Adventure

By Sharon Jaynes, Gwen Smith, and Mary Southerland

Book Description:

You don’t have to understand God to trust him.

“Just trust me.” Those are the words we often hear in movies just before something bad happens. And yet, we are told to trust God. In a culture where we tend to take control of our own lives, trusting God has become a religious platitude rather than a life-changing attitude. We say it, but do we really mean it? And what does trusting God really look like?

Sharon, Mary, and Gwen—the Girlfriends in God ministry team—have been there. They’ve traveled the tough roads of life to discover the peace and power that comes from grabbing the hand of God and trusting his plan. The life stories they share bring laughter and sometimes tears, but always spiritual growth.

Each of the 12-week sections concludes with a Bible study guide and journal page, inviting you to lock arms with Sharon, Mary, and Gwen and share with other women in a small group setting or to use individually in your own quiet time.

A few these book-related resources:

• VIDEO: Trusting God - A Girlfriends in God Devotional
• Author Podcast - Trusting God
• More Info
• Read Chapter One
• Author Bio

My Thoughts: This is an excellent devotional. It is designed to be a twelve week program and I read it in just under a day but I know that I will use it (as intended, in 12 weeks) many times in the future! I loved that the authors used moments from their own lives to get their point across. What I loved about this book is the way it is presented, a down to earth and loving read, and told in a way your best friend would talk to you. I enjoyed having a space for to journal and reflect as well as how it lends itself to be either a solo read or a group bible study. This is one of the best devotionals I have ever found, I highly recommend it!
Disclosure: "I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review."

Book Review: Brush of Angel's Wings By Ruth Reid

Book Description: Rachel and Jordan's feelings for each other are hostile at first, but angelic intervention helps the two discover peace . . . and perhaps love.

The youngest and last unmarried of four sisters, Rachel Hartlzer spends most of her time helping with barn chores. Her role abruptly changes when her father hires Jordan Engles, the son he always wanted.

As Jordan takes on brotherly roles around the house, like escorting Rachel to the youth singing, the enmity between the two grows. Besides, Jordan has one foot in the Englisch world and is determined not to get involved with an Amish girl.

Neither realizes that God has sent an angel, Nathaniel, to help mend their hearts. The angel’s intervention helps them find peace and healing in accepting God's will for their lives.

My Thoughts: Last year I had the pleasure of reading The Promise Of An Angel by Ruth Reid. I loved the book and couldn’t wait to read more by this fantastic author, so I was thrilled when I picked up Brush of Angel's Wings. While I love Amish romances, I would have enjoyed this book regardless.

Ruth Reid again does an excellent job of weaving the story together. By bringing in bits of her previous book and expanding on the story line. Although you do not have to read the previous story to enjoy this one.  This book is a sweet, simple story of two young people who find each other while trying to find themselves and their futures. Rachel and Jordan bring out the best in each other and show us how to do this in our own lives. Your heart follows these two characters and by the end you are celebrating with them as they find their way.

This is an amazing Story written about the Amish and with a twist about Angels. I have honestly never read books that is written like Ruth Reid's books and I have read plenty of Amish fiction. (AS you can tell by my previous review) I highly recommend this book and I intend to read all of "A Heaven on Earth" series.

Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Book Review: Indelible by Kristen Heitzmann

Book Description: In a clash of light and darkness, can courage prevail?

Rescuing a toddler from the jaws of a mountain lion, Trevor MacDaniel, a high-country outfitter, sets in motion events he can’t foresee. His act of bravery entwines his life with gifted sculptor Natalie Reeve—and attracts a grim admirer.

Trevor’s need to guard and protect is born of tragedy, prompting his decision to become a search and rescue volunteer. Natalie’s gift of sculpting comes from an unusual disability that seeks release through her creative hands. In each other they see strength and courage as they face an incomprehensible foe.

When a troubled soul views Trevor as archangel and adversary, Redford’s peaceful mountain community is threatened. Together with Police Chief Jonah Westfall, Trevor presses his limits to combat the menace who targets the most helpless and innocent.

Learn more:

• Author's Web site
• Follow Kristen on Facebook
• More Info
• Read Chapter One
• Author Bio

 

My Thoughts:

Kristen Hietzmann is a suspense writer of the best kind. Her fast paced novels keep the reader on the edge of their seat from the first page until the last one. I read this one while on taking a road trip... it sure made the 19+ hour car ride much more pleasurable.
This novel comes after Indivisible, Although it probably adds depth to the story, I don't think it is necessary to read one before the other. However I will say I cant wait to read the first book and I suggest if you have the opportunity read them in order. The topics Kristen chooses to write about are not the normal  everyday life type of topics, but yet they are still present and draw you in to the this could happen mind set.

The story line is unique and very well thought out. Taking two characters that have been injured in their own unique ways learn how to better understand themselves and each other. A woman with an eidetic memory who uses sculpting as her way to deal with the stress of having people’s images imprinted in her mind and a former Olympic skier with a hero complex and a stalker. The are both strong characters and yet vulnerable. The author takes great care to balance the two and give us a glimpse into the lives of these to complex people and their struggle to find a way through their struggles towards trust and love.

The story flows well, though fast, and the only thing I regret how fast I read it, you end the book wanting more. (The mark of a good book in my opinion.) She makes you feel as if you can see the scenes happening, and that you are right there. Not for the faint of heart and not an easy feel good cozy read.

"I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review."

Win a Kindle Fire

To enter, fill out the form below and Learn more about the prize at http://amzn.to/Kindle_Fire a Rafflecopter giveaway

Creativity counts

I’m glad to tell you the winner of the Crayola giveaway. Congrats #27.

Jeannie said...

my granddaughter would love the Barbie coloring pad. - Jeannie
jmicek8611 at aol DOT com

JULY 1, 2012 8:58 PM

Hellmann's Real Tastes Better

Hellmann’s was a proud sponsor of one of the nation’s most celebrated food festivals – the 30th Annual FOOD & WINE Classicwhich took place in Aspen in June.  To celebrate Hellmann's announcement of their mission to transition to 100% cage-free eggs in all its products by 2020, the brand teamed up with Chef Tim Loveto offer food lovers everywhere a behind the scenes look from the Classic.

In its bid to bring REAL to fans at the Classic and those at home, Hellmann’s® created a video series featuring Chef Love that offered an exclusive insider’s look at many of the FOOD & WINE Classic’s famed events.  Designed to show home chefs how they can bring the delicious food enjoyed at the Classic to their own tables, Chef Love shared the secrets and essential ingredients that help make up some of America’s favorite dishes.
you should to try Chef Love’s Turkey, Avocado BLT recipe: http://www.hellmanns.com/recipes/detail/13356/1/turkey-avocado-blt. It is Delicious!!



Chef Tim Love whips up his Spicy Chicken with Creamy Avocado Sauce at FOOD & WINE Classic. His tip - add a little Hellmann’s® to blended avocado or guacamole to make it even creamier


Chef Tim Love Behind The Scenes Video: Click here to view it on you tube.





What do you think about Hellmann's promise to make the switch? Sound off about it on their Facebook page facebook.com/hellmanns and enter the sweepstakes for a chance to win various prizes including a Grand Prize trip to next year’s FOOD & WINE Classic.
disclosure: by posting, I am eligible for a drawing through One2One Network, but all opinions expressed above are my own.

Lets get snacking!

The 4 winners of the MOTTS MELODYS fruit snacks are -

Comments numbers 14, 8, 3 and 20. (winners were chosen by random.org)

(#14) Anonymous said...

My grandkids love the MOTT's applesauce and Juice - Kathleen
Katerr757@yahoo.com

JUNE 28, 2012 11:12 AM

(# 8 )Karin said...

I want to try the assorted fruits.
karin56381 (at) gmail.com

JUNE 27, 2012 8:05 AM

(#3) pmj said...

email subscriber
pjames330 at aol dot com

JUNE 25, 2012 10:47 AM

(#20) Jeannie said...

As a Nana to 15 I'm very familiar with MOTT's products - Jeannie
Jmicek8611@aol.com

JUNE 28, 2012 11:18 AM

Congrats Ladies please send my your contact information right away so your prize pack can get out to you.

Thank you to everyone who entered and remember even if you didn’t win you can still save by visiting http://bit.ly/MottsCoupon. To download a printable coupon for $0.60 off the purchase of (1) Mott’s® Medleys Fruit Flavored Snacks today!

Happy 4th!

Happy independence day everyone. ours should be filled will lots of laughter and fun. Right now I’m enjoying a bit of quite before the festivities began. The salad is made and waiting and the children are still sleeping.

 

The last four weeks the children and I have been away from home visiting family back in NE. As we gear up for the 4th we are also a little sad to be heading back home this week. Both children loved spending time with their cousins and I with my siblings. As a extra surprise my oldest brother was able to make it back to NE from Cali. yesterday. Its strange to have all 6 of us in the same city again.

I just want to say thank you to all my readers who have stuck by me in the last year or so when my writing has slowed down. Life gets in the way sometimes and finding time to write has been challenging. I really hope to write more often but its great to know that when I get time you’re here to read it.