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Organic Ceremonial Grade Green Tea Matcha

December 3, 2014 By Leave a Comment

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I am not a big Green Tea drinker but I do like this product! I don’t have to use much..just a little makes a great cup of tea! but, my favorite way to use this is in baking. A free recipe guide is included for great ideas for snacks and drinks. I like many of the drink recipes but my favorite is the Cupcakes. I like that the frosting isn’t too sweet! Also, you do get a slight burst of energy from drinking this product. I also like that it states that  it has Up To 137x the Antioxidants of Brewed  Green Tea. Antioxidants are essential as you age to boost your body’s natural defenses against oxidation. Researchers have found that a high level of dietary antioxidants can prevent many age-related diseases.  So, if you are looking for a something you can drink and also bake with, this is the product for you!

 

You can find on Amazon.com. 

 
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

Penguins of Madagascar – A Wonderful Animated Film to Share with Your Younger Kids

December 3, 2014 By Leave a Comment

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Here’s a super cute animated film that you can feel comfortable taking your younger kids to. The story follows a super spy team – the hilarious, covert birds of the global espionage biz – Skipper, Kowalski, Rico and Private. These elitists of the elite join forces with a chic undercover organization, The North Wind. Led by handsome and husky Agent Classified, they set out to stop the villainous Dr. Octavius Brine, from destroying the world as we know it. KIDS FIRST! Critics Haley P. comments, “The movie Penguins of Madagascar is hilarious!  It is the funniest movie I have seen in a long time.” Brianna B. adds, “Besides the message of revenge not being good, I also like the message that everyone is a valuable member of a team.” And, Samantha A. had this to say, “You may have already seen the penguins in DreamWorks original movie Madagascar but now you are seeing them in their own movie comedy.” See their full reviews below.

Penguins of Madagascar

Reviewed by Haley P., KIDS FIRST! Critics, Age 12

 

The movie Penguins of Madagascar is hilarious!  It is the funniest movie I have seen in a long time.

This animated movie, in 3D as well as 2D, is about three penguins that grow up together, find another penguin that hatches from an egg and they all become best friends. They go on all their adventures together as a team. The youngest one, Private, tries his best to become an important part of the team.  An evil villain named David captures them for revenge.  He’s jealous because he used to be the main attraction in zoos until the penguins come along and stole his glory!  The penguins are rescued by a new elite team called the North Wind who claim they are the best at rescuing helpless animals.

There are so many funny scenes in this movie that it’s hard to pick a favorite.  I love when Kawalski’s (Chris Miller) status report says that they are in Ireland when they really are in Shanghai.  Another funny moment is when Classified (Benedict Comberbach) tries to explain his teams’ purpose and Skipper (Tom McGrath) keeps interrupting him by chomping on Cheesy Dibbles every time he speaks.  Also, when the villain reveals himself, expecting the penguins to be shocked, they don’t even know who he is. I can go on and on with funny moments but really, you have to watch the movie to see what else will tickle your funny bone.

My favorite character is Private (Christopher Knights) because he is cute and he finds his purpose in the end which makes him an important part of the team.  The other characters are equally fantastic. The writers have created a wonderful comedy script and I think this movie will keep you laughing.  The moral of the story is that your appearance on the outside shouldn’t matter, it’s who you are on the inside that counts, baby!

This movie is a good fit for ages 8 through 18. Boys, girls and even adults will enjoy this movie because it has a lot of “adult” humor. My parents laughed more than us kids!  I rate this movie a five out of five “dazzling” stars! The Penguins of Madagascar is in theaters now so, go check it out.

This is Haley Powell reporting for KIDS FIRST!   Thanks for tuning in, bye bye!!

Penguins of Madagascar

 

Reviewed by Brianna B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

 

This animation is hilarious and has great cinematography. Seeing this film in 3D definitely adds to the excitement of the story line.

 

Skipper, (Tom McGrath, Voice) and his gang are up against, Dave (John Malkovich, Voice) who is an octopus that has his sights set on revenge. He believes the penguins have stolen his publicity and fame by being so cute. He plans to make Skipper and every other penguin pay for it being tossed out of every zoo. Dave plans to turn the penguins into monsters and release them in the streets of New York.

 

This film has great comedy with funny remarks. It’s funny from the very beginning. I like it when famous actors are referred to in the script. For example, Nicholas Cage is mentioned when talking to one of the octopi. It has great animation and the 3D aspect makes the characters seem as if they are coming right at you and you are a part of the action. This animated story travels to France, Hong Kong, Ireland and other places. The authenticity of the locations looks very believable. The voice actors have natural comedy to them. I like how sometimes the sound track plays but the characters don’t hear it. It is unheard by everyone except the audience.

 

My favorite character is Eva, (Annet Mahendru, Voice) who is an Owl. She controls her emotions and is the complete opposite of the penguins. She carries herself well and brings another personality to the film. My favorite scene is at the very beginning when the baby penguins chases the egg. It’s funny to watch the egg going everywhere as it  takes the Penguins to unknown territory.

 

Besides the message of revenge not being good, I also like the message that everyone is a valuable member of a team. It doesn’t matter how smart or how small the part is, everyone matters.
I recommended this film for ages 7 to 15. Both girls and boys will enjoy and love it. I give it 5 out of 5 stars. The comedy is great and it comes with a meaningful message.

The Penguins of Madagascar is in theaters now, so please check it out.

Penguins of Madagascar

By Samantha A., KIDS FIRST! Critics, age 11

 

Penguins of Madagascar is an animated movie about a group of penguins (Skipper, Kowalski, Rico and Private) that go on globetrotting adventures. Their adventures take them to Antarctica, the Desert, Venice, Shanghai and New York City. In this movie, the Penguins meet an elite team called “The North Wind” led by a husky handsome dog, Agent Classified (Benedict Cumberbatch) and together, they must fight the evil Dr. Octavius Brine (John Malkovich)

You may have already seen the penguins in DreamWorks original movie Madagascar but now you are seeing them in their own movie comedy. You may not think it, but this movie does have a few very good messages. For example, don’t let anyone underestimate you and your true power and also, always speak up and be heard.

This movie is action packed. Sometimes I wasn’t sure if it was a good or a bad thing because it feels like it jumps from place to place. Sometimes that is good because, once the action REALLY gets going, it feels just right how everything goes so fast. One of the reasons I like this movie is because, even though it is action packed and funny, it also had sad parts. I like that because even though the penguins are supposed to be adventurous and strong, it is nice seeing their more sympathetic side.

Something I like (and always have liked) about the penguins is that they all have simple personality traits that define who they are. For example, Kowalski has his big brain. They are each so different but together they are a very cool team.

I commend the directors of this movie, Simon J. Smith and Eric Darnell, for a great job.   Other than things moving a bit too fast, everything else is simply great.

I give this movie 4 out of 5 stars because it is a great film and I recommend it for 6 to 13 year olds because it is funny and most little kids will understand the topic but there are some jokes that kids might not understand. This movie is great and I loved it and so will you!

Credit: KIDS FIRST! Coming Attractions, www.kidsfirst.org

 

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Where to Take Your Little Ones on Those Winter Days!

December 3, 2014 By Leave a Comment

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With the temperatures dropping and the holidays just around the corner, mommies and daddies everywhere are starting to think about where to take their little ones throughout the festive season.

 

My kids and I just love Thanksgiving, and while the evening will be spent with all the traditional turkey and other festivities, we’ll also be braving the cooler weather by taking a trip outdoors. If you need some inspiration, here are a few suggestions for great days out for all the family – plus a few suggestions on mommy and daddy me time.

 

The San Diego Boat Parades

 

A trip to San Diego is more than worth it for a Christmassy atmosphere this winter season. If you’ve never been before, hundreds of decorated boats across the harbors and canals on the Southern Californian coast will be covered in twinkling lights. It’s a joy to behold for families of all ages, although if you’re the kind of parents who don’t like the cold, consider warming yourself up with a hot chocolate while the kids marvel.

 

 

Outdoor Ice Skating

 

Ice skating is something that can be enjoyed by everybody from keen athletes to clumsy moms like myself, so why not capture the winter spirit with a little outdoor skating? If you’re around Los Angeles, try out the paradoxical but fun skating by the beach at Ice at Santa Monica, or head over to the Winter Wonderland that is CHILL, presented by the Queen Mary. Families can enjoy skating as well as ice slides, tubing, a holiday village and even an Ice Kingdom – Disney’s Frozen has nothing on this!

 

The Nutcracker

 

Traditionally something considered for adults, this Christmas you can take your kids to the a kids-only version of the play featuring dancing sugar plum fairies and monkey kings. At just 45 minutes long, it’s the perfect time for little ones to watch without getting too bored. You can check it out at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts on 13th December. And for the adults, check out the original in a local theater near you if you can find a babysitter.

 

Bring the games back home!

 

After all that fun outdoors, you’ll want to do something a little more relaxing at home too. Try digging out those old board games that are such favorites at Christmas – whether it’s Boggle or Buckaroo, these are guilty pleasures for kids and adults of all ages. And once the kids go to bed you can try a little guilty pleasure gaming of your own – the themed slots at www.casinosagafans.com give those mommies and daddies with a naughty streak the chance to unwind and win big.

 

Photo: courtesy-Cook-Schmidt

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Holiday Time with The Container Store!

December 2, 2014 By Leave a Comment

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It’s that time of the year! Time for baking and time for wrapping Holiday gifts! Did you know that The Container Store has really cute Cookie boxes, cupcake liners and Cookie bags? They do! My son and I had so much fun picking out boxes that you can fold into gingerbread houses and his favorite actually was the Gift Wrap! He found the cutest Scottish dogs Holiday wrapping paper and really cool Labels & Seals. I also saw many cute ides for stocking stuffers too! You can also find many gifts at The Container Store!Of course, they have the best products for organizing! My favorite is the Desk Station which is just perfect to add to any desk!

Visiting The Container Store is really a Must-Do this Holiday season!

Self Disclosure: I received a free gift card to purchase items for this holiday post. 

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

Ravensburger 3D Coastal Lighthouse Puzzle

December 2, 2014 By 7 Comments

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Looking for really fun puzzles for the kids this Holiday season? My family love the puzzles by Ravensburger. 

They can be a bit challenging but so much fun!  Ravensburger’s Coastal Light House features 216 carefully constructed plastic puzzle pieces, including curved and hinged pieces that interlock to create a colorful reproduction of this historically important structure.  I love how realistic this one looks! I recommend it for ages 10+. Would make a great gift this Holiday season! Check it out here!  You can also find so many other great puzzles!

We have teamed up with Ravensburger for a Holiday Giveaway! One winner will win this 3D Coastal Lighhouse Puzzle! To enter, leave a comment below telling us if you have visited a Lighthouse before. Deadline to enter is December 9th, 2014 at noon PST. One winner will randomly be selected via Random.org.

Self Disclosure: I received a free product to facilitate this feature and giveaway.

 

Filed Under: Archived Content

Gaslamp Popcorn is a fave this holiday season!

December 2, 2014 By Leave a Comment

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I love Gaslamp Popcorn! You may remember that I recently reviewed their new Holiday Flavors. They are delicious! The New Sea Salt & Olive Oil is also quite delicious! The best thing is that it is only 37 calories a cup! Well, I guess that would be the second best thing because the taste in really the best thing!  But, it is also a healthier snack option this Holiday season! Look for this product near you! The bags did not last long in my house!

Gaslamp Popcorn is available for purchase in major retailers across California or buy online today.

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this feature. Photo Credit: Gaslamp Popcorn.

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

More Holiday Gift Suggestions!!

December 1, 2014 By Leave a Comment

Looking for Holiday Gift Suggestions? Here are a few of our favorites!

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Jennifer Lopez Collection by Endless Jewelry

Endless Jewelry is known for its colorful bracelets in quality leather and a wide range of classic and modern charms which has swept through the markets in Europe and North America. The combination of affordable luxury and bright colors, has made Endless Jewelry a colorful fashion statement across continents, and with the addition of the Jennifer Lopez Collection, a new dimension has been added to the already exciting collection.

 

Jennifer Lopez is one of the biggest superstars on the planet, known especially across the globe for her artistry, beauty and style. Now Endless and Jennifer Lopez are joining forces to introduce a brand new collection of fine jewelry, unique bracelets and charms, all reflecting the glamour of Jennifer Lopez and the quality of Endless Jewelry.

 

The collection is available exclusively in fine jewelry stores across the United States and Canada.

 

Jennifer Lopez said “My exclusive collection with Endless Jewelry embraces the attitude of being fun and elegant at the same time. It is also about letting each woman express her personality through her jewelry. The collection will let women celebrate what is unique and beautiful about themselves.”

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CEO and Founder of Endless Jewelry, Jesper Nielsen, is equally thrilled about the agreement, “Endless Jewelry is all about being yourself, positivity and daring to show your colors whether you wish to be elegant, discrete or stand out. We offer women a way to personalize her jewelry by letting her mix and match classic and modern charms with her choice of color or colors of the day. It’s simple yet unique, and Jennifer Lopez’s extraordinary style and charisma perfectly represent the new collection. We are proud and delighted to be in this long-term relationship with Jennifer Lopez.”

For further information, please visit endlessjewelry.us, Facebook.com/endlessjewelry

Self Disclosure: No compensation was received to post.

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This next gift suggestion is a Must-Have for everyone in the family!

POWERSKIN LAUNCHES THE POP’N 2 PORTABLE CHARGING SOLUTION FOR IPHONE 6 AND

IPHONE 6 PLUS PROVIDING ADDITIONAL BATTERY LIFE, QUICK CHARGING AND PROTECTION!

With millions of consumers already purchasing the iPhone 6™ and iPhone 6 Plus™ there is an immediate need for on-the-go charging solutions for these new devices.  To meet the incredible demand, PowerSkin, a leader in portable power solutions, today announced that the company’s popular PoP’n battery packs now includes PoP’n 2 for iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, available for only $69.99.

Utilizing state-of-the-art, patented suction adhering technology, the PoP’n 2 suctions onto the back of the iPhone for an easy to hold, seamlessly integrated charging experience. That means no dangling cords or having to awkwardly juggle around two different devices. Featuring a 4000 mAh battery and 2.1 amp charging equipped, the PoP’n 2 charges the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus faster than any other battery pack and the reinforced hard shell plastic helps stabilize and protect the phone.

With changes in Apple MFI regulations, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus battery cases are not slated to hit the market until early 2015, however the PoP’n 2 is available immediately for both devices.  As iPhone 6 and 6 Plus use soars, consumers are calling for more battery life to keep their now favorite devices powered longer.

PoP’n 2 is a functional and practical charging solution for everyone looking to add more battery life to their iPhone, but not wanting to compromise its streamline look and feel. Its flexible approach means users can pop it on when they want power, and pop it right off when they’re done.

The battery pack gives the iPhone 6 one and a half full charges and the iPhone 6 Plus one full charge, and weighs less than 5 ounces. It also comes with a FREE crystal clear protective case for iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus and customers can take advantage of PowerSkin’s 30 day, risk-free shopping with free shipping and returns within the continental US.

PoP’n 2, priced at $69.99 and comes in Black, White, Pink, and Blue, and can be ordered at www.Power-Skin.com

I received a sample for my cell phone and love this product! I do not have an iPhone any longer but have an android phone.  It works great! This would make a great Holiday gift or even a stocking stuffer gift for teens and adults!

About PowerSkin®
PowerSkin®, is a leading provider of built-in battery cases and universal portable power solutions for popular iOS, Andriod, and Windows smartphones, tablets, and other rechargeable devices.  Their staple is sleek, modern, one-piece designs and patented innovations that fit your phone and fit your style. PowerSkin is backed by exclusive XPAL Inside™ technologies including: short circuit/overcharge protection, thermal management heat dissipation, pass-through charging (i.e.: device is charged first, followed by the case when plugged in), and flame retardant- highest industry standard UL94 v-0 rating.  Designed to be your go-to, go-anywhere, go on-and-on power source, PowerSkin® has got you – and your phone – covered. For more information, visit www.power-skin.com.

 

About XPAL Power

 

XPAL Power, a subsidiary of TennRich International, is a California-based corporation with its sales and marketing team located in the United States. The TennRich design team is located in Taiwan, and the company-owned factory in Shenzhen, PRC is the first factory in China to focus on rechargeable lithium polymer batteries and is currently one of the largest manufacturers of portable power packs in Asia. The  XPAL Inside™ seal stands for quality, safety and efficiency – a guarantee that these traits are inside every product that authenticates through the XPAL verification service. XPAL Verified™ is an authentication process that underscores our commitment to quality, using complex algorithms to detect and transfer battery serial numbers to verify our product’s legitimacy – a safeguard customers can trust. For more information, please visit www.xpalpower.com.

Self Disclosure: I received a free sample to facilitate this Holiday post.

 

I also love this next idea! This one is similar to Elf on a Shelf  but I think this is a cuter idea!

Roaming Reindeer product shot

Roaming Reindeer! Now, how cute is this?!

Angela Meju’s Christmas keepsake and children’s book, Roaming Reindeer™,  is a touching tale celebrating teamwork, good manners and the holiday season, and will serve as a fresh, new Christmas tradition for families and classrooms around the country.

Roaming Reindeer™ is centered on Gus and Sam, two of Santa’s reindeer, who decide to help Santa by visiting little girls and boys to report back on who is naughty and who is nice.

When the pair realize there isn’t enough time to visit all of the children, they call on their friends for help. The reindeers are sent off in pairs of two and are assigned a home to visit. Reindeer 1 is in charge of going back to Santa to report naughty children while Reindeer 2 stays to keep watch.

The book comes in a keepsake box which includes a Reindeer 1 and Reindeer 2. Children and siblings will keep a close eye to make sure their reindeer stay together until Christmas Eve, when they leave to help Santa deliver presents—until returning next year to keep watch!

I received a free sample of this product and love it! I have actually never done the Elf on the Shelf but am looking forward to starting a new tradition with Roaming Reindeer!

To find out more about this cute product, go here.

Self Disclosure: I received a free sample to facilitate this holiday feature.

 

 

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

Holiday Cards from Shutterfly!

November 30, 2014 By 7 Comments

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Thanksgiving is over and now it’s that time of the year! Time to send out Holiday  and Christmas Cards! Shutterfly is my favorite to-go-to website for cards because they have so many choices! Above are two of my favorites this year. I love how you can personalize them so easily and that there are so many choices. There really are so many choices that it is difficult to choose but after choosing the theme, it is so easy to add photos and your text.

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I really like how the one my son and I designed this year! (Above photo).

Just check out these awesome holiday cards at Shutterfly !”  And, don’t forget to check out all the wonderful holiday photo gifts at Shutterfly !”

We have teamed up with our friends at Shutterfly for a Holiday Giveaway! One winner will win  $50 off total order so you can design your own cards (plus free shipping) code at Shutterfly!  Next,  visit the Holiday Cards landing page at Shutterfly (click on our link above!) and leave a comment below telling us one of your favorite card designs. Deadline to enter is December 5th, 2014 at noon PST! One winner will randomly be selected from all entries.

Self Disclosure: I have received compensation (photo credit for free) to facilitate this feature but any opinions expressed are my own.

Filed Under: Uncategorized
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