Archives for 2021

The Mitchells vs. The Machines * A Must-See, Animated, Action-Packed Comedic Film

A quirky, dysfunctional family’s road trip is upended when they find themselves in the middle of the robot apocalypse and suddenly become humanity’s unlikeliest last hope. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Tiana S. comments, “The Mitchells vs. The Machines is a must-see animated, action packed, comedic film! It’s complete with robots, evil smartphones and one crazy unexpected family adventure to save planet Earth. The fight scenes and special effects are literally out of this world.” See her full review below.

The Mitchells vs. The Machines
By Tiana S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

The Mitchells vs. The Machines is a must-see animated, action packed, comedic film! It’s complete with robots, evil smartphones and one crazy unexpected family adventure to save planet Earth. The fight scenes and special effects are literally out of this world.

The storyline follows protagonist Katie Mitchell (Abbi Jacobson), a creative outsider who is looking forward to meeting “her people” at her new film school. Her dad, who just wants to keep his family together, decides to go on a cross-country road trip to take her there instead of Katie flying, so they can bond one last time. On the way, the family ends up in the middle of a robot uprising and now it’s up to the Mitchells to work together to save the world.

The main characters in this film are Katie, her dad Rick (Danny McBride), little brother Aaron (Michael Rianda), mom Linda (Maya Rudolph) and family dog Monchi (Doug the Pug). This film is all about connecting. Its director, Michael Rianda, uses every part of the creative process to make sure the audience relates to the characters. The storyline and the Mitchell’s road trip are based on a real road trip some of the staff took while not using cell phones and just connecting. I love how the film combines both an illustrative, hand-painted approach and realism animation style to help develop the characters. Rianda helped develop Katie’s character by making her love for filmmaking a focal point throughout the movie. There are hilarious freeze-frame moments where Katie is writing on a screen, it’s almost as if she is the narrator. One of my favorite scenes is when Linda turns into a “super” mom and takes on the robots to try to protect her kids. I also like that Rick and Katie’s family song “Live Your Life” by T.I. and featuring Rihanna is used to represent their relationship and wrap up the theme of the movie.

The message of this film is that everyone in a family has their own personality and you should just let people be themselves and focus more on understanding and connecting to them. In this film, Katie is considered a “weirdo” because she isn’t like everyone else. The film shows how you should embrace your “weird” qualities, because that’s what makes you unique. 

I rate The Mitchells vs. The Machines 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.  It releases April 30, 2021 on Netflix.

From Cradle To Stage * The Ultimate Rock-umentary!

Directed by Dave Grohl and inspired by his mother, Virginia Hanlon Grohl, and her critically-acclaimed book, From Cradle to Stage: Stories from the Mothers Who Rocked and Raised Rock Stars, the Live Nation Productions FROM CRADLE TO STAGE is a dynamic personal exploration of the special relationship between successful musicians and their moms. The six-part series will debut exclusively on Paramount+.

Honest, humorous and emotional, each episode features a famous performer and their mother, alongside Dave and Virginia, as they take an impassioned journey home and explore each artists’ upbringing and the tools they received as a young talent to survive the turbulence of success. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Heather S. comments, “This show is so creative. Virginia’s and David travel around the United States to learn more about their musical friends. It’s so interesting seeing rare videos and pictures of the stars, along with first-hand stories about their formative years. From Cradle To Stage shows how the love of music runs in the veins of these artists from an early age. You see how Virginia’s love of music spread to David, who grew up surrounded by music.” See her full review below.

From Cradle To Stage

By Heather Suarez, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

From Cradle To Stage is the ultimate music documentary series! From rock, to country, to pop, we learn so much about our favorite musicians and the women that raised them.  A plus is that we get to see their adorable baby pictures.

This new series is based on the book by the same name written by Virginia Hanlon Grohl, mother of David Grohl, drummer of Nirvana and guitarist for the Foo Fighters. The two discuss what it was like raising and being raised as a rock star. They also team up with Dan Reynolds of Imagine Dragons, Pharell Williams, Miranda Lambert and their mothers to talk about the childhoods of these incredible artists. The show answers a loaded question, “What was it like to raise a musician?”

This show is so creative. Virginia’s and David travel around the United States to learn more about their musical friends. It’s so interesting seeing rare videos and pictures of the stars, along with first-hand stories about their formative years. From Cradle To Stage shows how the love of music runs in the veins of these artists from an early age. You see how Virginia’s love of music spread to David, who grew up surrounded by music. It’s very insightful to watch how a mother’s love and support encouraged her child to pursue a mutual love for music. Although worrisome, these mothers always encouraged their children to pursue doing what they love. It’s heartwarming to gaze upon the mothers’ collection of framed platinum records and Rolling Stone magazines.

The moral of the series is to always have your child’s back. In the music industry, where some become famous Grammy winners and others are not as lucky, these mothers always supported their children. Whether or not the parents supported the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle and fame their child pursued, they always put their child’s happiness first. Always asking, “How can we help?” There are some warnings for this series in regards to adult language and mentions of alcohol and drugs.

I give From Cradle To Stage 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for older teens plus adults. It is available on Paramount+ May 6, 2021.

Moving with Toddlers During Covid-19 in 2021

Ask most people and they will agree that moving house is one of the most challenging things to deal with.

Let’s be real, apart from the excitement that lies from the promise of starting life anew on the other side – assuming our reason for moving is a positive one in the first place, such as for instance, starting a new job or moving in with a SO – the actual process itself is a pain.

But if you thought moving alone was work, you haven’t tried a family move with everyone including young children and pets in tow. These necessitate a special rethinking of the entire move since, well, we can’t leave them behind. 

This is why it makes sense to work with a reputable long-distance or local moving company (depending on where you’re going) so they can ease the burden of the move for you – and all the better if you opt for a full-service as opposed to partial or labor-only service.

But even then, we now have the Covid-19 to think about.

Since it struck in early 2020, the novel coronavirus has meant we factor it in into everything we plan on doing. On the upside, the vaccination drive is in full gear, with the United States leading the way in terms of the number of individuals vaccinated.

At the time of publishing, at least half of the population has received the first dose of the vaccine, with those who have been fully vaccinated accounting for north of 30%, according to the Coronavirus vaccine progress tracker.

Worth noting is that children have not been vaccinated for the simple reason that most Covid-19 infections have been diagnosed in adults. However, that doesn’t mean kids are completely immune from the virus.

According to an earlier report by the American Academy of Pediatrics, 11% of those diagnosed with Covid-19 during the first wave were children. The difference is that most children only experience mild symptoms or illness, although worth stating is that some babies and children have gotten very sick from the virus.

You certainly don’t want to risk your baby when moving.

This is why while masks are not particularly a must-have for children under two years of age (due to their smaller airways), it’s worth taking precautionary measures to protect your little one throughout the move.

A lot of these measures do not deviate much from the safety guidelines issued by the CDC really. It’s all about adapting them to your move.

Opt for a virtual estimate – If you’re going to hire a moving company, as professional as they might be and conscientious in following Covid safety protocols, it’s better to request moving estimates virtually as opposed to having a representative of the company come into your home (‘cos social distancing?). Video estimates can still give you a pretty accurate quote and have in fact become the norm since the pandemic hit.

Wearing of masks – Everyone involved in the move should wear a proper face mask throughout. Doesn’t matter if they have been vaccinated. Before you sign up with a mover, this is one aspect you need to be on the same page about.

Opt for new boxes – You can bet a toddler will be all over those boxes the moment you get the boxes into that door. For this reason, it’s advisable (as has been the norm during the entirety of the pandemic) to purchase new moving boxes instead of sourcing second-hand in a bid to keep costs down, or whatever the motivation is. According to research, the coronavirus can survive for up to 24 hours on cardboard boxes, the material used on regular moving boxes.

Wipe everything down – Goes without saying. In addition to washing hands and wearing face masks, sanitizing should be a given on both hands and surfaces. It’s become second-nature for us all by now anyway, and just because most people have received the jab shouldn’t be an excuse to drop the ball. Sanitizing of hands applies to your child as well, not to mention various surfaces. These include everything from door handles (of course, the baby won’t reach them but someone else will), armrests, cup holders, seat belts and buckles, you name it. If you’re moving into a house that was previously occupied, ensure the house is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before you move in.

Follow these simple standard measures when moving house and you and your family should be home and dry when all is said and done.

Last-minute Gift Idea for the Mom who loves Coffee!

For thoughtful gift ideas that check all the boxes, look no further than Steeped Coffee (www.SteepedCoffee.com). The innovative startup is committed to premium coffee, convenience, and environmental stewardship in equal measure. So, when you introduce the coffee lovers in your life to Steeped, it’s a win-win for them and the planet. And, in an effort to fight hunger in America, the coffee company has launched its Packs for Good program, committing 20% of all sales to Feeding America for hunger relief (steepedcoffee.com/packsforgood).

What sets Steeped Coffee apart is its proprietary brewing method that does not require machines or brewing equipment, made much like tea. The coffee comes in single-serve bags that are nitro-sealed to ensure absolute freshness. It’s a uniquely “unplugged” coffee experience, from the award-winning packaging made using compostable and renewable materials to the non-GMO filters. All it takes to brew a perfect cup is hot water and a few minutes, and at the end of the day, there are no wasteful plastic pods accumulating in waterways or landfills.

Best of all, each Steeped Pack contains hand-roasted, ethically sourced, Direct Trade coffee that’s precision ground to showcase the distinctive flavor profile of every crafted blend. Whether you’re looking for light, medium, dark, French roast, or even decaf, there’s something for you.

So instead of racking your brain for the perfect gift, visit the Steeped website and make someone’s day while also being eco-conscious! With plenty of one-of-a-kind items, it’s the simplest way to give the gift of Coffee without Compromise this holiday season. Here are 5 gift ideas for the coffee lovers.

The Mug and More

Start with a vessel they’ll love and fill it with packs of Steeped Coffee. Selections include the ceramic Steeped Diner Mug (perfect for homebodies) or the Steeped Miir Insulated Camp Mug (for the adventurous type).

The Steeped Lineup Sampler

A great way for newcomers to discover the roast that suits them best, the Steeped Lineup includes five alluring blends ranging from Light, Medium, Dark, and French Roasts to the Swiss Water Processed Decaf.

The Steeped Coffee Subscription

What could be more convenient? They can choose their favorite roast and have it delivered straight to their doorstep as often as they like with the ultimate flexibility to switch roasts or pause their subscription at any time.

Steeped Home Kits

This indulgent gift has everything they need to make the perfect cup: a “smart” electric kettle or elegant stove-top kettle, a Steeped Coffee Subscription, and two high-end mugs.  

Two Double Wall Tasting Glasses

Experience coffee like never before with this set of two double wall tasting glasses. The flared lip delivers coffee to your entire palate in order to taste the full spectrum of coffee flavors.

These Fellow double wall tasting glasses are cool to look at and cool to the touch, even while you’re drinking your hot cup of Steeped Coffee.

Add a delicious cup of Steeped Coffee with breakfast in bed for mom, with these coffee recipes.

GINGERBREAD LATTE

Ingredients

1/4 tsp cinnamon

1/8 tsp ground ginger

2 tsp molasses – blackstrap or regular

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

3 tbsp strong Steeped Coffee

1 cup milk of choice – almond milk, coconut milk, etc.

sweetener of choice, to taste

Instructions

Mix everything together in a small pot or in a mug. Then heat until desired temperature is reached. (Alternatively, if you want a foamy latte: Mix spices into coffee. In a big measuring cup, heat or microwave the milk until foamy. Then pour the milk into the coffee mixture.)

PEPPERMINT MOCHA LATTE

Ingredients

1/4 cup lowfat milk

1/4 cup coffee

1 tablespoon dark chocolate syrup

1 drop peppermint extract

Instructions

Brew some coffee and heat milk in microwave until hot. Mix chocolate syrup and peppermint extract into coffee. Foam milk with milk frother or just pour hot milk into cup. Sit down and enjoy!

Features of Steeped Coffee include:

  • Hand Roasted Specialty Coffee: no instant powders, just delicious coffee
  • No Machines Required: unplugged single-serve convenience
  • Guilt-Free Packaging: made using fully compostable and renewable materials
  • Nitro-Sealed: removes oxygen, stopping the clock on freshly ground beans
  • Full Immersion Filter: renewable plant-based non-GMO compostable filters that regulate ideal water-in and maximum flavor-out
  • Ultrasonically Sealed: no glues, staples, or wasted materials for max steeping
  • Precision Ground: consistent water-cooled grinding to the micron
  • Pre-Portioned: optimal SCA recommended water-to-coffee ratios
  • Barista Approved: continuously tested by multiple independent specialty coffee Q-graders for freshness, quality, and taste
  • Just + Water: a simple cup

I had the opportunity to try samples and I love this coffee!

About Steeped Coffee

Steeped, Inc. based in Santa Cruz, California, is a Certified B Corp and Benefit Corporation focused on every detail from farm-to-cup and beyond, to bring people the most convenient, high quality, ethically sourced, and sustainably packaged products available. Steeped Coffee is the new single-serve coffee standard helping to make quality coffee accessible within Guilt-Free Packaging. The proprietary Steeped Brewing Method delivers 100% freshly roasted, precision ground, and nitro-sealed specialty coffee pre-portioned within Steeped Full Immersion Filters. Steeped Coffee is the simplest way to make a perfect cup of coffee by just adding water, with no machine needed.

Steeped Coffee is available on Amazon with Prime Free Delivery, at premium supermarkets, luxury hotels, and offices with craft coffee and at-home services. Through licensed partnerships, Steeped, Inc. works with over 200 specialty coffee roasters to share its technology and brewing method around the globe. For more information, visit steepedcoffee.com. For business inquiries, contact sales@steepedcoffee.com or visit steepedcoffee.com/business.

Self Disclosure: Sample were provided and images were also provided.

Kirby, May 6th Pet of the Week!

Kirby may not look like an Italian greyhound mix—and he is—but any doubt about it will be whisked away by the speed by which he enters your heart. Kirby, a petite 20-pound 3-year-old, is an owner surrender. He’s used to peace and calm and would do well in a quiet, adult-only home. He seems to prefer women to men and likes to hang with the gang in dog parks, but he still needs practice meeting other dogs while on leash. Come meet this adorable critter. Adoptions are conducted through appointment, so call 562-570-PETS or email PetAdopt@longbeach.gov to meet Kirby. Ask for ID#A620729.

(This rescue encouraged by the usual suspects.)

Crappy Mother’s Day * If You Think Your Family Is Crazy, Think Again!

Three generations of women come together on Mother’s Day. Things don’t go as planned. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Katherine S. comments, “If you think your family is crazy, think again. When three generations of women, Sarah (Kristen Krak), Totie (Jackie Debatin) and Grandma (Vivien Landau) attempt to celebrate Mother’s Day, things go from bad to worse – immediately. From a senile grandmother to whacky uncles to a grandpa who is buried in the backyard, keeping the family together for a single day proves a difficult task, especially when Sarah brings her fiancé into the mix. You don’t need to be a master chef to figure out that this is a recipe for a really “Crappy Mother’s Day.” See her full review below.

Crappy Mother’s Day

By Katherine S, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Crappy Mother’s Day is sure to get some laughs out of you and it comes out just in time for Mother’s Day.

If you think your family is crazy, think again. When three generations of women, Sarah (Kristen Krak), Totie (Jackie Debatin) and Grandma (Vivien Landau) attempt to celebrate Mother’s Day, things go from bad to worse – immediately. From a senile grandmother to whacky uncles to a grandpa who is buried in the backyard, keeping the family together for a single day proves a difficult task, especially when Sarah brings her fiancé into the mix. You don’t need to be a master chef to figure out that this is a recipe for a really “Crappy Mother’s Day.” 

Director Dan Karlok lets go of the reins and allows slap stick comedy to insert itself at every turn of the movie. Though the comedy is hilarious, some of the scenes are a bit longer than needed and a bit random. The acting is wonderful, making this family look absolutely wacky and wild. None of the relationships seem normal. Kristen Krak, as Sarah, really appears to be the only normal person in the family. Addison Anderson, as James, plays a very fun character that breaks out of his shell as the movie develops. Bill Rutkoski, the crazed fiancé of Totie, is very believable. I certainly wouldn’t want him for a stepdad. Vivien Landau plays the perfect mean, old grandma. John Rutkoski and Mike Rutkoski, as Uncle Lenny and Uncle Donny respectively, nail the Planet of the Apes-obsessed uncles. My favorite characters are Grandma and Aunt Sonny (Marie Lenzie) because they are the most entertaining. They are always arguing and fighting in humorous ways, like two old, senile bats that love tormenting each other.

The message that is your family is the only family you have and, as crazy as you think they might be, they love you. Also, when getting married, be prepared for your newly expanded family and find something in common, even if it’s just Planet of the Apes boxers. There is profanity, some mature topics and heavy drinking.

I give Crappy Mother’s Day 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 14 to 18, plus adults. This film releases on VOD May 4, 2021

George Lopez Brewing Company and Chingon Kitchen Marinated Meats now available at Food 4 Less

Just in time for Cinco de Mayo, Food 4 Less has partnered with stand-up comedian, television and film actor, talk show host and author George Lopez to  announce the launch of George Lopez Brewing Company’s first four beers, “Ta Loco Cervezas” and Chingon Kitchen Carne Asada and Pollo Asado, available exclusively at Southern California Food4Less grocery stores.

The launch coincides with the release of the first of its kind “Comedy” Non Fungible Token (NFTs that will be available for customers and fans to unlock, collect and share with their friends).

George Lopez’ longstanding passion for authentic Mexican food and beer encouraged him to develop a restaurant brand, George Lopez’s Chingon Kitchen and now the George Lopez Brewing Company.

“I wanted to create beers that pair well with our Carne Asada and Pollo Asado but also taste great when just enjoying a cerveza after work or at the beach,” said George Lopez. “From our Naranja Crema which is an orange cream ale to our Mexican style lager ‘Lil Mexi’ to our grapefruit IPA, there is something for everyone.”

George Lopez Brewing Company’s first four Ta Loco Cervazas available at Food 4 Less include: Naranja Crema, an orange cream ale; Paloma, a west coast grapefruit IPA; Li’l Mexi, an award-winning Mexican style lager; and Agria y Fresca, a hibiscus sour ale. They come in a four pack, with a suggested retail price of $9.99.

Inspired by family recipes, George Lopez’s Chingon Kitchen Carne Asada and Pollo Asado is fresh, never frozen, and produced in the United States. Just tear open the package, throw on the grill and enjoy.  

“The best memories of my grandmother were the times we spent together in the kitchen. Her cooking was exceptional, especially her marinated meats,” said Lopez. “My Chingon Kitchen restaurants replicate her original recipes and we are thrilled to be able to now offer the Carne Asada and Pollo Asado at Food4Less for people to enjoy at home,” said Lopez.

Along with the launch, Food4Less stores will host an in-store promotion for customers and George Lopez fans from April 28 through May 11. By scanning a QR code via phone located on George Lopez Brewing Company displays in-store, customers can unlock an exclusive George Lopez non-fungible token (NFTs), a collectible digital asset, which holds value as a form of cryptocurrency created and distributed by the GFT Exchange.

The NFTs are a comedic look at a few of George Lopez’s most memorable phrases from “member you ‘member” to “why you crying?“ to the list of everything that goes great with the George Ta Loco Cervezas. There will also be unique and rare digitally signed George Lopez Brewing Company NFTs or the artwork on the can by San Diego based street artist DyseOne. The NFTs will be able to be shared by shoppers everywhere.

“What better way to kick off the Cinco De Mayo holiday than with some new great tasting beers that can be paired with carne asada and pollo asado,” said Eddie Vasquez, Customer Communications Manager, Food 4 Less. “We are also very excited to be utilizing innovative technologies like blockchain and NFTs to engage our customers at the point of purchase.”

“Delivering a George Lopez NFT is a perfect way to support the incredible products and deliver a unique shopping experience for Food4Less shoppers interested in the new and exciting digital medium,” said Mitch Chait, co-founder, GFT Exchange.”

Credit:

Food 4 Less/Foods Co

Food 4 Less is dedicated to our purpose: to Feed the Human Spirit ™. Food 4 Less/Foods Co is more than 12,000 associates serving customers in 129 price-impact, warehouse-format supermarkets under the banners Food 4 Less in Southern California, Illinois and Indiana, and Foods Co in Central and Northern California. We are committed to creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities by 2025. To learn more about us, visit our newsroom and investor relations site.

George Lopez’s Chingon Kitchen and George Lopez Brewing Co.

George Lopez joined forces with restaurant industry entrepreneur and hotelier Michael Zislis (Zislis Group) in 2017 to launch the George Lopez’s Chingon Kitchen brand in a deal that was brokered by George Lopez’ agency, UTA.  George Lopez Brewing Co., founded in 2019, is based at The Brews Hall in Torrance, Calif. Lopez, along with his expert brew master, carefully develop extremely flavorful recipes designed to appeal to a wide range of discerning palates, many using fresh tropical fruits. Ta Loco means crazy and that is exactly what these outrageous and unique beers are. The recipes are inspired from fond memories from Lopez’s life or classic authentic dishes or cocktails from his family traditions. The latest flavors include Naranja Crema, an orange cream ale; Paloma, a west coast grapefruit IPA; Li’l Mexi, a Mexican style lager; and Agria y Fresca, a hibiscus sour ale and can be found at Southern California Food4Less stores. These flavors along with new creations like the Sauvecito Stout, an Imperial Milk Stout aged on Cinnamon and Cacao Nibs can be enjoyed at The Brews Hall in Torrance. Lopez worked with San Diego based graffiti artist, DyseOne blending traditional styles with innovative approaches to create Mexican street art inspired cans. No beer is released until Lopez says that it is “Ta LOCO!”  More about George Lopez Chingon Kitchen and George Lopez Brewing

About the GFT Exchange

The GFT™ Exchange delivers NFTs that are Authentic Digital Collectibles™ powered by Blockchain technology.  The NFTs introduce a revolutionary way for IP owners to deliver a unique and trusted digital asset that has value for the everyday consumer.  The platform enables IP partners, brands, distribution partners and marketplaces to mint, distribute and reconcile trusted, individually identifiable digital assets to customers.  Through a private/public blockchain hybrid approach and an IP alliance (called the GFT™ Alliance), the GFT™ Exchange enables protection for IP owners and consumers when it comes to provenance, asset security, and secure financial reconciliations. https://www.gft.exchange/

Self Disclosure: Images were also provided.

Mother’s Day Gift Suggestions!

Looking for Mother’s Day gift ideas? Here are a few of my favorites!

Baked salmon garnished with parsley. Photo courtesy of Oshen Salmon.

 Give a Gift of Wellness Straight from the Ocean, everyone’s Mother Earth! This one is sure to be a hit! How about making Mom salmon for dinner? Oshēn is a vibrant, fresh, and sustainably raised Atlantic salmon that has a perfect combination of healthy omega-3s (DHA & EPA). No hormones or microplastics are included and it is Kosher.  It tastes really good and it’s even good for the environment! Its mission is to continue to provide Ocean Raised, Ocean Loved salmon that is responsibly sourced and thoughtfully packaged with the environment in mind.

If you’re looking for a refreshing & guilt-free alternative dish to serve, on behalf of BluGlacier and Oshen Salmon here are a few exclusive recipes below that we know your Mom will just love! Oshen also arrives in super-chic and cheeky packaging, so if you don’t feel like cooking, it’s a great gift to give her to prepare at a later time as the fish is available fresh or frozen and good to store for up to a year in your freezer.

I personally loved the Fresh Mango Salsa Salmon Kebabs! Oshen Salmon has also created an exclusive discount code for our readers! Simply use  SOCIAL15 that offers 15% off your first order along with free shipping. Now, how cool is that?

Watercolor & Ink Abstract Floral Painting

Want to make something for Mom or with Mom this Mother’s Day? This next idea is for you! Mother’s Day ART BOXES from Art Classes for Kids is sure to be a hit!

With Mother’s Day quickly approaching, Art Classes for Kids introduces the Mother’s Day ART BOX, offering fun and educational experiences for artists of any age and their moms. Created by instructor Kim Bavington, each ART BOX includes all the supplies needed to create three cool art projects, along with upbeat video tutorials containing all instruction needed.

“From the memories created while working on these fun art projects to the final works of art moms will cherish for a lifetime, the Mother’s Day ART BOX offers a sweet, enjoyable and bond-building experience for mother and child,” said Bavington, founder, Art Classes for Kids.

The special edition Mother’s Day ART BOX is ideal for beginning and advanced artists to do with their mother, grandmother, aunt or any amazing woman in their life. The ART BOX includes a Watercolor & Ink Abstract Floral Painting, Baked Clay Roses Bracelets and Acrylic on Canvas Garden Painting featuring Mommy + Me in a floral garden.

“Every ART BOX includes educational tutorials designed to introduce kids to well-known painting, drawing and sculpting techniques,” explains Bavington. “The artistic lessons combined with hands-on activities is what makes our projects so fun and educational.”

Baked Clay Roses Bracelets

Priced at $120, the Mother’s Day ART BOX may be shipped anywhere in the United States. Each box contains all the art supplies needed, including watercolor paints, ink, a clay set, various sizes of paintbrushes and canvas for two people. To receive $25 off, use code “MOM25” at checkout. The Mother’s Day ART BOX may be purchased at  www.artclassesforkids.com.

Acrylic on Canvas Garden Painting

ABOUT ART CLASSES FOR KIDS
For nearly 30 years, Las Vegan Kim Bavington, artist, art teacher and founder of the popular Art Classes for Kids, has inspired literally generations of young artists to mine their creativity, refine their fine art skills and grow their excitement for visual art in her private lessons, group classes, birthday parties and school-break camps, as well as on her YouTube channel. Kids and families can enjoy Bavington’s extraordinary art instruction at home via her Art Classes for Kids YouTube channel, her virtual summer art camp, ART CAMP IN A BOX, Monthly ART BOX subscriptions and holiday ART BOXES. For more information, visit www.artclassesforkids.com or follow on Facebook and Instagram.

Photos courtesy of Art Classes for Kids.

Here is the perfect Mother’s Day Gift for Book Lovers! Corie Adjmi, award-winning author and women’s empowerment activist, harnesses the power and relatability of storytelling to help empower women in all areas of life in her award-winning book, Life and Other Shortcomings. This book illustrates the stories of 12 women, all on a different path in life, with one common overarching theme: the beauty, honesty, and compelling nature of the female experience and what it means to be a woman. Through each character’s intimate journey, specific truths are revealed about what it means to be a woman—in a relationship with another person, in a particular culture and era—and how these conditions ultimately affect her relationship with herself. The stories as a whole depict patriarchy, showing what still might be, but certainly what was, for some women in this country before the #MeToo movement. I truly enjoyed reading this book and recommend it to all women! You can find it on Amazon.com.

Looking for something for Mom other than chocolate? This one will be a hit and it comes packaged in a hear shaped box!

 Welch’s Fruit Snacks Heart Shaped Gift Box.

The perfect gift for mom that deserves a little something sweet, the Welch’s Fruit Snacks Heart Shaped Gift Box features a blank canvas for special personalized notes along with 3 Welch’s Fruit Snacks Mixed Fruit pouches – made with REAL fruit and bursting with a delicious combination of fruitful flavors.

This completely customizable Welch’s Fruit Snacks Heart Shaped Gift Box can be delivered right to doorsteps, with availability on Amazon for $13.95.

Self Disclosure: I received samples to post. Images were also provided.