Ditch the "Mom jeans" for Slim-sation Jeans

As a mother of 3, I know a little something about having an extra bit of “fluff” on my body. Although my weight is ideal for my height and age, I still have that mid-section that is so hard to get rid of. I have to dress in creative ways to mask my mom-tummy. When I received a pair of Slim-sation Spring Slimming jeans to review, I was excited. I picked out a dark wash, straight leg style and it came very nicely packaged when it arrived at my home.

The jeans are well made and the material is soft, yet strong. I tried them on and was so pleased at how nicely they fit and they did indeed control my tummy! They fit higher on the waist without looking like your typical “Mom jeans”. I can now wear a fitted tee or sweater and not have to worry about seeing extra lumps, bumps or fluff. I did find that the jeans were slightly on the long side, but they still look great tucked inside my boots. I’m short, so that is something to keep in mind with sizing. I washed the jeans in cold water and they did not fade and had minimal shrinkage. I think they will last for a long time. I'm so happy to have them in my closet because it is so hard to find jeans that fit my body properly.

The Slim-sation Jeans offer:

• Flexible tummy control panel that smooths & slims tummy, thighs and rear
• Get a perfect custom fit with Shape Recovery Technology
• Reduce tummy bulge
• Drop 1 size instantly 
• Look and feel up to 10 pounds lighter

Slim-sation makes a variety of styles of jeans, capris, pants and leggings. They are all designed to help lift and smooth while feeling super comfortable. Check them out online at the Slim-sation site as well as on Facebook and Twitter for product updates and promotions. If you sign up for their newsletter, you can get 10% off. I plan to order some capris for the spring and some leggings to wear with sweaters.

I received a sample for review purposes and all opinions are 100% my own. 

Valentine's Getaway for Parents at Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts #MyMyrtleBeach

My family visits Myrtle Beach several times a year and have stayed at a couple of the Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts locations. The beach is the perfect getaway no matter what time of year it is and oceanfront accommodations makes it even better. We being able to be soothed and refreshed by the sounds of the ocean, while being able to get to restaurants and shopping nearby. With Valentine's Day coming up, Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts announces their ‘Be Mine!’ Valentine’s Day Package.

Celebrate with Oceanfront Accommodations, Romantic Dinner, Champagne and More

Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts (MBSR) – operator of the area’s premier oceanfront condo-hotel and vacation rental properties – announces the release of its “Be Mine” Valentine’s Day package.

Available at five MBSR resorts (Avista, Grande Shores, Horizon at 77th, Prince and Seaside) from Feb. 11-18, 2015, the “Be Mine” features oceanfront accommodations, champagne, chocolates, Valentine’s balloon bouquet and rose petal turndown service. Bookings at select properties also include a romantic dinner at area eateries like Just Off Main, 3500 and Shoreline Café, as well as breakfast in bed.

Rates start at $281 and are based on a two-night stay for two adults in a one-bedroom condo.

“We’re rolling out the red carpet this upcoming Valentine’s Day with one of our best holiday offers in recent memory,” says Jim Eggen, General Manager of MBSR. “Day-time highs that frequently hit the 60s and 70s are perfect for exploring the Grand Strand’s renowned sugar sand beaches, exceptional shopping, diverse dining options and other calling cards.”

Myrtle Beach is within a half-day’s drive of population centers like Washington D.C., Raleigh, Charlotte and Atlanta. Moreover, Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is conveniently located to all MBSR properties. Serviced by Delta, Continental, Spirit Airlines and US Airways, it features daily, nonstop flights to over 25 destinations including Philadelphia, Baltimore, Newark, N.J. and Chicago.

For additional information and reservations: Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts, 888.571.4104.

About Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts

Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts is a collection of six oceanfront and ocean view condo-hotels in North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Avista Resort, Prince Resort, Horizon at 77th, Grande Shores, Seaside and the Towers at North Myrtle Beach all provide the comforts of full-service resort hotels with the space and luxury of condominiums.

Each property features modern décor that reflects a coastal lifestyle and breathtaking views of the pristine northern region of the world-famous Grand Strand. Elegant yet affordable, units are spacious one to three bedrooms with fully-equipped kitchens, washer / dryer, and private balconies. Most hotels have fitness centers, an array of indoor and outdoor pools, on-site dining and access to world-class beaches.

Crispy oven-baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe

I wanted to share one of my must-have foods at a Super Bowl party. Flavorful chicken wings in a variety of sauces is a staple, and my husband is obsessed with my oven-baked version. They are just as crispy as if you deep fried them. The secret is using my favorite dried seasonings (minus the salt) along with a few tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Cooking on parchment paper in a 400 degree oven on convection for 35 minutes helps to crisp them up. If you don't have a convection setting on your oven, no worries. Just bake at 415 for 35-45 minutes. The good thing about parchment paper is that nothing sticks.

We LOVE all flats and are lucky to find them at our local Kroger store in a 5 pound bag. 

One of my favorite ways to take my crispy wings to the next level is to jazz them up with garlic and Parmesan. 

To make these crispy oven-baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings, you will need: 

2.5-3 pounds of chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
Your favorite dry seasonings including 1 1/2 tbs of garlic powder (here are mine)
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/2 cup grated Parmesan Cheese
1 tsp dried parsley flakes

Bake wings according to directions above. Toss wings in the Parmesan cheese and parsley flakes. Serve with Bleu cheese dressing and enjoy! 

Tip: Make sure after you wash your chicken that you dry them extremely well with paper towels. Excess moisture will cause your chicken to steam in the oven and you will not achieve crispy skin. 

3-Ingredient Jalapeno-Ranch Deviled Eggs for your Super Bowl Party #NaturallyFresh (Giveaway)

This post is part of the blogger program by Naturally Fresh® and The Motherhood, who compensated me for my time and the development of this recipe. Opinions, experiences and photos shared here are my own, and I hope you enjoy them.

There has been so much excitement all over the country with the football playoffs and the long-waited event of the year, the Super Bowl. We love watching The Super Bowl together as a family and I go all out with yummy game food and drinks. I have been playing around with some better-for-you recipe ideas and wanted to share one of them with you. 

Of course, a party isn't a party without the deviled eggs! I can't think of a more simple and delicious finger food, and I always include them on the menu. I came up with a tasty version for our upcoming Super Bowl party that only requires three ingredients. Can it get any more simple than that? These jalapeno-ranch deviled eggs are sure to please your guests. 

To make these scrumptious eggs, all you need is:

• Hard-boiled eggs, peeled and halved
• Naturally Fresh Classic Ranch Dressing 
• Pickled jalapeno pepper rings (you can use the tamed version if you don't like spicy) 

All you have to do is separate your hard-boiled yolks in a medium size bowl and mash them finely with a fork. You then add the desired amount of Naturally Fresh Classic Ranch dressing until you reach the correct consistency you are looking for. At this point, you can add a little cracked pepper to taste if you like. Next step is to simple scoop your egg yolk mixture into you egg whites or pipe it in using a large star tip like I did. Add a half of a jalapeno ring on the top and sprinkle with paprika to make them look fancy. That's it! So super simple and you can even use the Light Ranch if you want to cut out some extra calories. 

Naturally Fresh makes their ranch dressing with their very own buttermilk and the Lite Ranch is made with their nonfat buttermilk (half the calories of the original). Naturally Fresh is a line of high-quality, homemade-tasting salad dressings and dips with no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. These dressing and dips are always sold in the refrigerated section of your grocery stores because they don't have any artificial flavors or preservatives. Naturally Fresh does not use MSG either. 

You really can taste the difference in these products. You really can't go wrong with wholesome ingredients packed with flavor. Find Naturally Fresh products at most Publix or Kroger stores and you can also find other locations using the free mobile app. Their website offers plenty of recipes too!

Enter to win one of five coupons for one FREE 12 ounce bottle of Naturally Fresh Dressing below:a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on January 26, 2015. Winners will be contacted via email to claim prize. Mom Files is NOT responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

$3 Wine that is actually good?

Hey, y'all! I just wanted to share a great wine I stumbled upon in my local Kroger store a couple months ago. I noticed that they have cases of the Bay Bridge Vineyards brand of wines displayed at the front of the wine aisle and I would walk past it because, how good can a $3 wine be? I see people picking up 3 and 4 bottles at a time and the display cases sometimes look like they have been hit hard. This heightened my curiosity *ahem* 

I finally decided to try the Merlot, since I figured I can always cook with it if I wasn't too crazy about it. It turns out that I LOVE it, and love the price even more! I was so surprised that it really does taste really nice and I can stock up without feeling a big hit to my wallet. I have not seen this brand in any other store before so if you have a Kroger in your area, it is worth trying a bottle. Let me know if you do! Enjoy :)

Behind the Taste with Bruegger's Bagels #BehindTheTaste #spon $25 GC Giveaway

Do you ever crave certain foods and insist that it must be authentic? You know, the real deal. No shortcuts, no substitutions. This is how I am with bagels. Living in NYC as a kid, you know you don't mess around with certain foods. A proper bagel is a must and anything less won't cut it. Bruegger's Bagels are certainly the real deal with that signature texture and chew that really sets the bar on bagel quality-- truly authentic New York Style. Lucky for us, Bruegger's bagels is not just exclusive to NYC residents. They have locations in various parts of the U.S. so you get a chance at having the real thing. Yes, even in South Carolina, I get to experience a fine New York Style bagel. I tell ya, there's nothing like it! I was excited when I found out that they were launching their new "Behind the Taste" website. There is a new video each month through April that you can "unlock". *Hint: there might just be a little surprise at the end!

Bruegger's Bagels has a really nice breakfast and lunch menu that offers something for everyone. I tried their Pastrami, Egg & Swiss breakfast sandwich and it was delicious! I love how much care goes into preparing your order and that you can watch the magic happen from behind the counter.

Check out this short video to see how Bruegger's keeps tradition alive and what makes their bagels so unique.

If you haven't experienced Bruegger's for yourself, you are truly missing out! Go here to see of there is a location near you. And again, be sure to check out their brand new "Behind the Taste" website and follow them on Facebook and Twitter for product updates and promotions.

Bruegger's Bagels have provided me with 2 gift cards to give away to my lovely readers. Each winner will get a $25 Bruegger's bagel gift card. Enter below:        a Rafflecopter giveaway
Giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on January 16, 2015. Two winners will be picked at random and mandatory entry will be verified. Mom Files is NOT responsible for any lost, stolen or damaged prizes.

This is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own as always.

Drink MORE water with the New PUR Ultimate Pitcher

Happy New Year! I can't believe it's 2015 already. I admit, I'm not into New Year's resolutions at all. I am a goal setter more than anything. One goal I have had for many years was to increase my water intake. I have noticed that water affects me in so many ways. If I don't drink enough I will notice that my skin is dry or my muscles ache. I don't feel well overall when I have not had at least 80 ounces a day. I know most people have a hard time drinking water, but really want to improve. One great tool is to have a dedicated container filled with the amount you need for the day. You can easily gage your progress that way. The new PUR Ultimate Pitcher is perfect to get your water-drinking goals under control. It comes in a 7-cup and 11-cup size. The 7-cup is perfect to start out with. It is also an earth friendly option over expensive water bottles that end up overtaking landfills.

The overall design of the pitcher is absolutely brilliant! The space-saving shape makes it easy to store in your refrigerator, especially the door. Not everyone has a water filtration system on their fridge so this is wonderful to have. It is easy to fill with a thumb activated lid, has a comfort grip handle and has a covered pour spout to prevent odor and particles from getting into your clean water. PUR Ultimate Series featuring MAXION filtration technology. MAXION technology is PUR’s highly specialized formula for maximum contaminant reduction.

PUR Ultimate Pitchers are certified to reduce contaminants including by-products from chlorine, mercury and industrial pollutants (to name a few) and remove twice as many contaminants as Brita’s filters. Keep track of your filter life with a built-in Electronic Filter Life Indicator. The indicator flashes green, yellow or red so you'll always know when it's time for a replacement filter. I absolutely love this feature. The filters are recyclable and pitchers are BPA free.

Your water tastes clean and refreshing, similar to bottled water. I will be keeping my 7-cup Ultimate Pitcher on my office desk so I don't forget or make excuses why I didn't drink enough. Makes PURfect sense!

You can find the PUR Ultimate Pitchers at select retailers and at PURwater.com, starting at $16.99. Be sure to follow PUR on Facebook and Twitter for product updates and promotions.

I received a complimentary pitcher for testing purposes. All opinions are 100% my own as always. 

The Hello Kitty Craze

You see the cute little whiskered face in almost every major store throughout the country and even across the world. It adorns clothing, lunch boxes, diaries, toothbrushes and bed sheets. It is even the theme for an entire hospital in Taiwan! Hello Kitty has become an international craze that continues to take the world by storm. Kids everywhere immediately recognize the unassuming round face and the familiar red ribbon that adorns this cute little cartoon cat.

What is the history of this little cat, and how did Hello Kitty toys become so popular throughout the world? Here is everything you could possibly want to know about Hello Kitty and her rise to fame.

Japanese Origins

Hello Kitty originated in Japan during the 1960’s when a Japanese company called Sanrio developed her character (which is actually known as Kitty White). Previous to selling Hello Kitty products, Sanrio primarily sold small items like pencil cases and other items for elementary-aged children. Once they developed the Hello Kitty character, their sales began to increase.

Rumors Abound Regarding Hello Kitty’s Origins

There are a couple of untrue legends circulating about how Hello Kitty actually originated. One story claims that the cute kitty was developed in an attempt to soften the corporate image of a nuclear power plant. Another story involves a fantastic claim that involves a truce with the devil to create a cute image in his honor in exchange for the healing of a young girl with cancer. Both stories are obviously false and the character was not created in any sinister way.

Emotionless Character

Hello Kitty was made without a mouth intentionally, because the lack of emotion made it more likely for people of all backgrounds to relate to her.  Because she does not seem to portray any emotions, the individual who views her can project their own emotions onto her at any time. It is this strange characteristic that may be part of the reason for her impressive international success.

Hello Kitty Almost Became a Punishment

Back in 2007, the idea was briefly entertained to force police in Bangkok to wear flashy Hello Kitty armbands if they committed minor infractions. This plan was quickly abandoned as it created outrage among both Hello Kitty fans and the Bangkok police ranks.

A Character That Kids and Adults Enjoy

While originally intended for children, Hello Kitty now adorns adult clothing and novelty items as well. Today you can buy Hello Kitty toys, Hello Kitty jewelry marketed to wealthy women, and Hello Kitty themed make up. While it may not be perfectly clear why this cute little emotionless character became so popular, it is clear that she is a character that is able to break through typical cultural, gender and age boundaries.

SOL REPUBLIC 100-day Money back Guarantee on Tracks Air (Holiday Gift Guide) Giveaway

CLOSED- Winner is The Attic Girl, Shelly D.! Congratulations!

Have you ever had that moment when you have your headphones on and you're jammin' and about to multi-task when suddenly, BAM! Your headphones come flying off your head because the cord got stuck somewhere. Yep, you know it has happened to you. Annoying, huh? I finally found the answer to my problem; SOL REPUBLIC Tracks Air Wireless Bluetooth Headphones are helping me break free from wires.

These headphones do not disappoint. They still give you the same amazing sound quality you get from the standard corded headphones. It's a step above with not being tied down with wires. Now you can do those tasks without being held back! They are great for taking with you when you are on-the-go, traveling or anywhere you want to enjoy the freedom of listening to music, audio-books or video wirelessly. Tracks Air come in 4 colors and have up to a 15 hour battery life. Another great thing is the SOL REPUBLIC Tracks Air 100-Day Money Back Guarantee.

Tracks Air comes with 100-day Money Back Guarantee, so you can go from 0 to 100% Wireless with nothing to hold you back.

The Guarantee applies only to Tracks Air wireless headphones purchased on or after October 15, 2014 directly from SOL REPUBLIC via the official Web Site at www.solrepublic.com. Tracks Air headphones must be returned within 100 days following purchase to be eligible for a refund. See full details here.

You can purchase the SOL REPUBLIC Tracks Air Wireless Bluetooth headphones directly from the website or Radio Shack for $199.99.

Be sure to follow SOL REPUBLIC on Facebook and Twitter for product promotions and updates.

Giveaway: One very lucky Mom Files reader will win a pair of Tracks Air to put the 100-day money back guarantee to the test. Enter below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway Giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on December 18, 2014. One winner will be picked at random and mandatory entry will be verified. Winner will be emailed for mailing information. Mom Files is NOT responsible for prize fulfillment or for any lost, stolen or damaged prizes.

Disclosure: I received the same item described in this post from SOL REPUBLIC. All opinions are 100% mine as always. 

Super Cute Gifts Every New Mom Needs #HolidayGifts

The festive season is the perfect time to show people how much you care about them. If you have a friend, who has recently become a mommy, you might want to do something a little special. We all know how intense the first few months of motherhood can be. Your friend needs your support now more than ever. With Christmas just around the corner, why not treat your friend? Here are some super cute gift ideas for new moms.

1. A Spa Day 

Everyone needs to relax when they have a newborn. It is likely that your friend isn't get all that much sleep these days. Has she had a day off yet? If not, she needs one. Why not treat her by booking her and her partner a spa day? You can offer to look after their baby so that the couple can spend some quality time together. Having relaxing massages and treatments will rejuvenate your friend's energy levels. It will also give her and her partner a chance to celebrate being parents for a moment.

2. A Baby Keepsake Box

In the first year of a baby's life, so many things happen. A great way to make memories is to create a keepsake box for your baby. If your friend doesn't have a cute keepsake box, yet, you might want to consider getting her one. That way, she can remember all the big moments in her baby's life. You can get keepsake boxes online at sites like My 1st Years. Explain to your friend what she has to do with the box.

3. Cute Slippers

As a new mommy, your friend will be spending a lot of her time around the house. Since it is winter, you should get her some cozy, cute slippers. Comfort will be your friend's top priority. That means that she will need to be comfortable all the time. Getting some slippers that she will adore is the perfect present. You should look for slippers that have a fluffy lining inside them so that they are super warm throughout the winter.

4. Jewelry

New mothers need a lot of stuff for their baby, but sometimes, they need things for themselves too. It is nice to treat your friend with a gift that has nothing to do with her child. After all, she is a person too. She doesn't stop being an individual the moment she has a baby. You should consider getting your friend a lovely friendship bracelet or necklace. Getting your friend something just for her shows her how much you care.

5. A Cover-Up Top

We all know it. After women have babies, they struggle to get back into shape. Your friend is likely self-conscious about her current body shape. Get your friend a fashionable cover-up top so that she can cover her lumps and bumps. Tops with extra material that are floaty work well to hide parts of the body. Choose a top that comes in just below the bust, but flows out from there. That way, it will make your friend look like she has a tiny waist.

6. Relaxation Candles

Everybody needs some time to relax after they have given birth. You can pick up some cute, aromatherapy candles in any home store or online. Make sure you choose scents that your friend will like so that the candles suit her. Ask her what her favorite scents are and choose candles accordingly. You might even want to get some incense and body oils so that your friend can create a spa experience at home. There are loads of books on massage and treatments that might also be perfect.

Green Ways to Reuse Coffee Grounds and Tea Bags

It’s easy to think of your coffee grounds and tea bags as mere tools with which to brew a little pick-me-up. However, they can both be much more. Once your cup is empty of your favorite hot beverage, you can reuse the grounds and leaves in an environmentally friendly manner. Here are 10 ways to give them a second life.

Photo by Tyler Nix on Unsplash

Remove Odors From Skin
Cooking foods with strong odors doesn’t mean you’re destined to wear them afterwards. Rub your hands with leaves or grounds to freshen your skin before rinsing them with soap and water

Brighten Up Wood
Boil 2 to 3 tea bags in a quart of water to create a green cleaning product for your wood floors and furniture, which will also brighten and leave a shine. Traditional teas (as opposed to the herbal variety) are best to ensure tannins are present. Be sure the wood is darker than the tea to avoid staining.

Deter Uninvited Garden Guests
Your coffeemaker grounds can keep your garden free of ants and other pests. They can also be extremely helpful in keeping the neighborhood cats from turning your beloved oasis into a litter box. Sprinkling only a few tablespoons of grounds near each plant will deter felines.

Deep Clean Dishes
Your pots and pans can be cleaned without the use of harsh abrasives or synthetic chemicals. Instead, use the natural abrasion offered by grounds. If the dish needs to soak, place a tea bag or two into the warm water to allow tannins to break down stubborn residue.

Compost for Plants
Both types of grounds offer nourishment to plants that live indoors as well as those outside. For plants such as roses, strawberries and tomatoes that prefer a more acidic fertilizer, use the remnants from your coffeemaker. For less acidic-loving plants such as lilacs, succulents and geraniums, use the tea.

Pedi Pleaser
Take a few of your used tea bags and steep them in warm water for a good foot soak the next time you give yourself a pedicure. The antibacterial properties of the tea assist in removing odors while cleaning and brightening up the skin.

Fridge Freshener
Place grounds in an open container and place in your refrigerator to add an aromatic scent while deodorizing and freshening the area.

DIY Dye
Whether you are looking to dye eggs, paper, clothing or even your hair, you can steep grounds in hot water to create an earth-friendly dye. Strain the liquid when you have achieved the desired color and leave to cool.

Home Facial
For a light exfoliator and skin brightener, create a facial scrub by mixing grounds with honey or avocado. Reduce puffy eyes by placing two cooled, used tea bags over your eyes for about 10 minutes.

Eco-Friendly Shoe Shine
Once you’ve steeped your brew, rub the damp tea bag over the surface of your dark-colored dress shoes to clean and moisturize.

A Milestone with a Twist

My little one has been asking me since kindergarten when I think he will lose a tooth. All of his friends have already lost a few and he was getting impatient. He went for a dental cleaning and check up at the beginning of the school year and the dentist told him he had two loose teeth. That shocked us since his teeth seemed extremely rooted and did not budge if we attempted to wiggle them. About a week ago, I noticed he had two tiny teeth emerging from the bottom (the same ones the dentist said he would lose soon). I got so nervous because neither teeth were loose. I went ahead and jiggled and wiggled with a bit of force-- It was either that or call the dentist's office. That did the trick and within a few days, he finally lost his first tooth! He was super happy that the Tooth Fairy left him a dollar under his pillow. 

By the way, in case you didn't know, the string on the tooth attached to the door trick really works. My husband was determined to get the tooth out since it looked like it was hanging by a string. Sadly, I did not get to experience what William looks like with his first tooth missing. The new tooth is halfway in already. We are working on the second one and hope to have it out in the next week.

Have you ever had the experience of your child losing a tooth after the adult tooth started growing in?

Try U-Konserve for healthier lunches and snacks for kids #ad

Ever since my kids were in kindergarten, they have taken lunch to school from home. I have had my challenges when it comes to variety because after a while, it seems like you are repeating the same things over and over. I prefer to send fresh foods whenever possible and like safer options when it comes to keeping food fresh. U-Konserve containers are a great choice since they are tested BPA-free, phthalate-free, PVC-free and lead-free. 

The Large Round Container in neon green is made from stainless steel which means it's non-toxic and non-leaching like plastic containers. The lid is leak-proof so you can worry a little less about a messy lunch box coming home. 

It is perfect to store fresh fruit, veggies, salads, pasta, cheese and more. The Large Round Container is the perfect size; 10 ounces. You can wash the container in the dishwasher, but they recommend the lids be hand-washed to prolong the life and seal it provides. 

This container will last for a very long time and the best part is there is no waste that ends up in landfills. How can you go wrong? The Large Round Container retails for $8.95. I have my eye on the matching insulated food jar. It keeps food warm or cold for hours. This is perfect since my son takes hot food to school daily.  

Check out the entire line of food storage products from U-Konserve/ Kids-Konserve and follow them on Facebook and Twitter for product promotions and updates. 

VTech Learning Cartridges Review for InnoTab Tablets #spon

Disclosure: The VTech product, gift card and information have been provided by VTech.

We recently got the opportunity to review the InnoTab MAX from VTech and it has been a great learning tool for my son. He has been enjoying the many apps the tablet offers. We were super lucky to receive two learning cartridges from VTech that work with the InnoTab tablets including the new InnoTab MAX.

We received Pixar Play and I Spy learning cartridges and my little guy could not wait to check them out.

InnoTab Pixar Play Learning Cartridge
(Ages 4-7 years; MSRP: $24.99)

·  The Pixar Store is open, and it’s time to play! In Pixar Play for VTech's InnoTab Learning Tablets, explore fun games and activities featuring your favorite characters from Toy Story, Finding Nemo, Monsters University and The Incredibles!
·  This InnoTab Learning Cartridge includes a variety of features such as five learning games that introduce spelling, letters, vocabulary, reading, phonics and creativity, an e-Book that retells the story of the movie "The Incredibles," and allows you to take photos with your favorite Pixar characters.

Our thoughts on the InnoTab Pixar Play learning cartridge: 

• They featured many of his favorite characters that are very age-appropriate. 
• You can choose your level; easy or difficult.
• The instructions are very easy to follow. 
• It is a great way to encourage spelling, phonics and vocabulary. 
• Your child will feel like they are playing a fun game without realizing they are LEARNING!
• This is an excellent aid for early readers. 

InnoTab I Spy Adventure Learning Cartridge 
(Ages 4-7 years; MSRP: $24.99)

·  I spy a fun-filled problem-solving adventure in this title for VTech's InnoTab Learning Tablets!
·  Kids can practice early reading skills as they read and solve I SPY riddles and play games to unlock 50 levels of play – each more challenging than the next.
·  Find, match and sore a variety of photo-realistic objects across four action-packed thinking games that build logic, vocabulary and visual discrimination skills.

Our thoughts on the InnoTab I Spy Adventure Learning Cartridge

• It's very simple to understand.
• Kids have the option of receiving a hint if they get stumped. This helps reduce frustration when they are trying hard to make a match. 
• My child feels accomplished when he sees how many levels he has moved up in. 
• We don't have traditional video games in our home (by choice) so this is a great alternative. 

Both learning cartridges are easy to load on the InnoTab and provide hours of wholesome fun. We are comfortable and know our child is playing something safe that he does not require any monitoring with. Be sure to check out VTech on Facebook and Twitter for product promotions and updates. 

Five Days of Fabulous Deals from Susan Posnick Cosmetics #ad

For a limited time only, you can purchase some of your favorite Susan Posnick items for a discounted price. Susan Posnick Cosmetics is offering an exclusive Five Days of Fabulous Deals! Sign-up to get the promotion codes every day from Thursday, November 27 until Monday, December 1 though http://eepurl.com/5baBv or on Facebook and unlock one of the special deals below.

Five Days of Fabulous Deals:

· BLACK FRIDAY DEAL: Free Mascara with every purchase
· Colorflo -- 30% off
· 50% off any color flo refill
· 20% off all orders
· Free Shipping & Limited Holiday Gift Pack Thru Dec or while supplies last. The gift pack is priced at $49.95 (over $70 value) and includes their new mascara, color eyedefine, and a mini tweezer in a signature Susan Posnick cosmetic bag.

I have been using Susan Posnick Cosmetics for months now and absolutely love each and every product I have. I recently tried the new ColorCoated Mascara and it delivered the results I anticipated. The actual wand/brush is very small compared to most mascaras I have used. It still helped to coat each and every lash and gave them a thick, full appearance. I have not experienced any clumping or irritation and love that they don't make my lashes look fake. The mascara removes easily with eye make-up remover. The mini tweezer is the best tweezer I have ever used. I can gently pluck my eyebrows and get a good, precise finish. That is money saved on waxing!

Susan Posnick Cosmetics is offering a FREE Mascara ($24.00) with any purchase. COLORCOATED Mascara is the newest addition to Susan Posnick Cosmetics! Not only does it enhance and lengthen your lashes, but it is gluten, paraben and cruelty-free. Go grab some of these deals while you can and Happy Holidays!

I received product samples for review and all opinions are my own as always.
 

Holiday Gift Guide: Keep your feet extra comfy with #ISOTONER Signature Slippers #ad

I have been a house slipper wearer for almost 3 decades now. They are a must when I am standing up to wash dishes, cook and other household chores. Wearing the right slippers is very important since my feet really need the extra support. The ISOTONER Signature line offers me exactly what I need. The  ISOTONER Signature Women's Woodlands Sonja Microsuede Hoodback Slippers are very cute and boy do they feel super comfy and warm! They come in a variety of colors: Ash, Black, Buckskin, Chili Pepper, Chocolate, Navy Blue and Vino. 

I have them in black and I just love how they look. My feet feel like they are wrapped in a warm blanket with added cushion. 

I went away to Myrtle Beach recently and I was so glad I packed my ISOTONER Sonja slippers in my bag. They are so cute oceanfront, aren't they?

Details:

- Comfortable hoodback slipper silhouette
- Supple faux fur lining
- Experience the overall style and comfort of ISOTONER Signature Woodlands slippers, inspired by your favorite vacation escape
- Woodlands slippers offer great colors, plush detailing and comfort-to-go styling
- ResponsIV™ Memory Foam Plus molds to your feet for comfort
- Extra EVA heel cushion to absorb impact
- Durable indoor/outdoor sole

I really do love how durable the sole is because I can run out to the mailbox or let the dog out without having to change into traditional shoes. These slippers are truly the best ones I have ever owned. I have had several pairs in the past by Isotoner, but these are my favorite. I have hinted around to my daughters that I need the navy blue and vino so I don't wear out my black ones too fast. ISOTONER slippers make the perfect holiday gift and I am sure Mom would agree! You can find them at a variety of retail stores as well as on the ISOTONER website. They sell for $30, but are currently on sale for $19.99 on the website. As a matter of fact, since most of the slippers are on sale right now, this is a great time to buy a practical gift for the women in your life or even for yourself. My daughters keep eyeing mine so Santa might just drop a pair off in their stockings.

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I received a complimentary pair of ISOTONER slippers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always.