The Big Year

Summary: Let the fowl play begin!  Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment presents the story of a competitive trio who quickly turn a simple quest into the ultimate competition when THE BIG YEAR spreads its wings on Blu-ray and DVD January 31.

Steve Martin, Jack Black and Owen Wilson portray three men from very different walks of life, facing a mid-life crisis, a work-life crisis and a no-life crisis.  In the biggest competition of their lives, they undertake an unforgettable trek through North America, engaging in hilarious and bizarre adventures and forming friendships that will last a lifetime!

MY REVIEW:
  Not quite what I was expecting for Steve Martin(Stu Preissler), Owen Wilson(Kenny Bostick) and Jack Black(Brad Harris), but it was a really good movie my family enjoyed together.   We sat down to watch it for dinner, which we try not to do but this was a special occasion.  I didn't expect the commentary that went along with this movie.  But it didn't take away from the cuteness of it by any means.  Steve Martin plays a man who's afraid to retire, he has the most amazing wife any man could ask for, she's supportive and strong and always helpful, allowing him to fulfill a life long dream, or come close to it.  Owen Wilson, well he's a jerk.  He gave up everything, countless marriages, at least 3 were mentioned, and all for the love of birds.  Scratch that, it's not the love of birds that keeps Wilson going, it's the power, the challenge of wanting to be first, he needs to be first so bad and winning this contest ruins his life in so many ways that he can't see until its too late.  He is obsessed with being the one who has "The Big Year".  And then we come to Jack Black, I absolutely love Jack Black.  When my oldest saw that he was in the movie she was so happy, eager to watch the movie from that moment on.  Black, is the one with the passion for the birds, he can hear them from a distance and know exactly what bird it is.  He too has been divorced, his wife didn't understand his fascination with birds.

  Along the way Stu and Brad become friends and team up to beat Kenny, which didn't happen.  And although Stu was a retiring man and always dreamed of having a Big Year, he saw in Brad hope and promise and with a little number fib on his own part Stu came in below Brad.  A heartfelt gesture that many wouldn't have made.  Some times in our lives we realize what is more important in our lives, as Stu did.  Other times we are driven by greed like Kenny.  And if we're lucky we will be like Brad and find a happy medium, the best of what life has to offer us.

  This movie is fantastic.  I laughed, I hoped for a different outcome, but in the end everything happens for a reason.  The characters were very believable in their roles.  Jack Black did a fantastic job with his character.  This movie will be watch again, likely sometime soon.  I really enjoyed it.  Not too much drama, no "un-classy" scenes, and lots of racing around the USA!

I give this movie 9 out of 12 thumbs up.

~~I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free for a written review of my honest opinion. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.~~

Martha Marcy May Marlene

Summary: From 2011 Sundance Film Festival “Best Director” winner Sean Durkin, in his feature film debut, and featuring breakout star Elizabeth Olsen in her “Best Female Lead” Film Independent Spirit Award nominated role, MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE arrives on Blu-ray and DVD February 21 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.

After escaping from a dangerous cult and the watchful eye of its charismatic leader, a young woman named Martha (Olsen) tries to reclaim a normal life with her family. But the haunting memories from Martha’s past trigger a chilling paranoia — and nowhere seems safe as the fragile line between her reality and delusions begin to blur.

Supported by unforgettable powerhouse performances from Academy Award® nominee John Hawkes (Winter’s Bone, American Gangster) and Sarah Paulson (Down With Love, What Women Want), the MARTHA MARCY MARY MARLENE Blu-ray and DVD is rich with feature special features, including “Mary Last Seen,” the chilling short film by writer/director Durkin that started it all.

MY REVIEW:
When I received this movie yesterday morning I was excited for my husband to get home and watch it with me.  I knew that it was going to be HIS type of movie and not mine.  Sure enough, he loved the movie.  And I guess part of me was a little captivated by it as well.  When the movie was nearing the end my husband looks over to me and says "makes you wonder just how many places are like that out there!"  Unfortunately, my answer is too many!
  I have to be honest with you, I didn't think I was going to like the movie because it's a "mind movie" as we call them, and I don't really get into them very much, I found it to be very slow, not a whole lot of action or anything.  But for the type of movie it was I actually did quite enjoy it.  My husband said that I may need to watch it again to get a "true feeling" for it, but I couldn't watch it again, once was enough for me.  For me, personally, this is not a movie to watch over and over, for him it definitely is though.  Watching it the first time, likely only time, I did enjoy it.  The actress who played Martha (who is also Marcy May and Marlene), Elizabeth Olsen, did a fantastic job in her role.  She was very convincing for the part she was playing and to me that is what makes a movie enjoyable.  If you can watch it and get so captivated and involved with it then you know they did a great job.  My husband thinks there may be another one, because of the ending, I guess time will tell.  And if there is, I would likely enjoy watching it too, but just once.  For a movie that is "not my type of movie" I really enjoyed it.  Except for the slow parts.  I do remember at one point not knowing if we were in the past or present time but other than that it was a very good movie in my opinion.  If you're like my husband and enjoy movies that make you wonder, you will like this one for sure.  This is not a movie for children and it is rated R.

I give this movie 3 out of 4 thumbs up.

~~I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free for a written review of my honest opinion. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.~~

Sleeper's Run

Synopsis: 
War on Terror veteran, Eric Caine, is found wandering the streets of Miami with no memory of the car accident that left him there. Alone and suffering from PTSD, Eric is on a one-way road to self-destruction. Then a chance meeting at a bar begins a series of events that helps Eric start anew. When his new job relocates him to Venezuela–the land of his childhood–things, however, take an ominous turn as a catastrophic event threatens the stability of the country. Now Eric must escape an elite team of CIA assassins as he tries to uncover an international conspiracy in which nothing is what it seems.

MY REVIEW:

This book has action and suspense.  It is jammed packed right full of details, information overload maybe?  Henry Mosquera did his research before writing this book, that is very clear.  There are so many great aspects in this book the thrills and suspense keep you on the edge of your seat, but at the same time too much detail can hurt my interest.  I really enjoyed the beginning of this novel, it peaked my interest to keep reading more.  It was very suspenseful reading about Eric Caine, jumping to my own conclusions of what was going to happen on the next page, how did he get there? Where did he come from? What will happen next?  I can see this book not being for everyone.  The language on Caine was a bit much for my taste as well.  I mean, I don't think I have ever read another book with the F-word in it.  Yes, juvenile "F-word" I know but I have children and I would not like them to use it, or read it or say it...they are all too young for this book but someday they will read things like this and I hope the language is more tasteful, but it did suit the story a little bit.  I was surprised by the language in the book, definitely not in my taste.  I cannot take away the fact it is well written for sure, for a first time book, Henry did a fantastic job bringing Eric Caine to life, but the things that played out through this book seem too unbelievable.  The effort is good but I think there needed to be a more believable element happening.  

I give the author credit he did a fantastic job getting the information together and making the story really well written.  I just wish it was a little more believable, realistic if you will.

I give this book a 1 out of 2

~~ I received this book free for my honest review~~

Master Your Acne

Product Description
This is a thorough, complete, well-thought-out e-guide to curing acne with diet and lifestyle. It wades through all the pseudoscience, distilling the real science into actionable steps people can take to achieve clear skin. The method requires no skin care products, no prescriptions, and no strange "natural" cures (i.e. no oatmeal, cider vinegar, baking soda types of treatments). This is not a "magic bullet" solution, but rather a comprehensive, multi-pronged attack strategy to cure acne. By choosing certain foods and avoiding others, and making sure some key nutrient needs are met, this course empowers readers to take their health into their own hands, and cure their acne once and for all.

Included in the course is a 45-page ebook, along with a resource guide, a quick-start checklist, and a convenient list of good/bad foods for acne to print and take to the grocery store, or pin onto the fridge. This is a complete acne system, focused not on "tricks", but rather on holistic education.

MY REVIEW:
  I have be a lifelong sufferer of acne.  I have had it since my preteen years and it's just stuck to me, stands out like, well like a pimple on my nose.  I have never had much luck with the creams and gels and all the other crap you're supposed to lather on your face to get acne off.  Seems a little silly to me, so I stopped trying things, I just gave up.  But then I realized that it was an issue I had to deal with from the inside out.  And so begins my journey to master my acne.

  It would be hard for me to give a review on how I think Master Your Acne works because this is not one of those "do it today and all your acne will disappear tomorrow" things.  This is not what I would call a "gimmick" or anything like that.  This is a way to get rid of acne naturally by changing your diet, eating food that are good for you and prevent acne.  Growing up my mom always told me that if I ate too many chocolate bars my face would break out and I'd have tons of acne.  While that may or may not be true, completely, as you will find in this e-book acne has a lot to do with the food we consume on a daily basis.   This e-book is a natural cure for acne it won't clear up your skin overnight but I think if you stick to healthier eating and following the guide propared here you may just find a solution to your acne "problem", a solution that cannot be bottle and sold to you over the counter or otherwise, but a real "cure".  You will learn how to get rid of acne and if you follow this guide I believe that you'll be able to say goodbye to it forever.

  The issue I can see many of you having, if you're anything like me, is that if you don't see instant results you may give up.  But you know what, and I will try very hard to do this as well, this is a lifelong condition many people have.  Wouldn't you love to finally put a stop to it?  I mean, all this requires from you is that you dedicate yourself to eating a more healthy diet, cut out stuff you probably shouldn't be eating anyway.  We all know there are "good" foods and "bad" foods.  And even if you don't want to admit you are on a "diet" we all eat a diet of some sort.  Eating a diet to shed some pounds, or to put some on, eating proporly for the next marathon, we all have reason's why we eat the foods we do.  So why can't eating foods to cure your acne be part of that list?  I will try very hard and in a couple months, after STRICT diet following the foods on the list, I will write a revised review and let you all know how my acne battle is going.

 I give this ebook 2 out of 2 thumbs up.

~~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.~~

Face Racers: Photo Finish 3DS

 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
Start your turbo-charged engines and blast into the outrageous arcade racing game, Face Racers: Photo Finish, with photo customizable 3D racers that put YOU in the game! Available on the Nintendo 3DS, Face Racers delivers unique, in-your-face gameplay, with dangerous obstacles that come to life in 3D right before your eyes! Take photos with your 3DS camera and place them on the face of your custom 3D racer, billboards and power-ups. Take on friends in multiplayer mode for a true photo finish in Face Racers!

System:Nintendo 3DS 

Release Date: Sep 13, 2011 

No. of Players: up to 4 players 

Category: Sports, Racing  

Publisher: Majesco Entertainment

 MY REVIEW:

I was so excited when I was given the chance to review this game.  I only have one son and he's always out numbered by his sisters and their "girlie" games.  So when I saw this in my inbox I had to jump at the chance to review a game that my son would love.  And what a great game too.  Okay, so it's not that easy for him and he does get a little frustrated but the fact that his face is on his race car is awesome.  No more asking "well which one are you?"  You will always know.  He has enjoyed the game so much, but of course he doesn't actually get to "play" it the way that it was made to be played, his racing skills will develop over time I'm sure and then he will leave the rest of us in the dust.

So, that's where mommy comes in.  I set up my character, which is actually quite easy, and then I'm ready to race, track is set, players are ready and we're off.  This can be an "up-to" four player game, on four different DS's of course.  I really enjoy the excitement of racing games.  The graphics are good, the courses are very creative and colorful, I really like them.  I, like my 3 year old son, get frustrated because I'm not very good at the actual racing, but I do enjoy trying so much.  My favorite feature of this game is the fact that my children can put their own faces on the cars and that, to me, gets them more into the game.  It's a whole other level of excitement to play as yourself with your cars, instead of the avatars that they give you on all other games.  I think this game is fantastic.

Again, I am not a fan of the 3D, I feel that it hurts my eyes and I don't let my younger children play with it on.  You are cautioned by the company that 3D can hurt the development of children's eyes age 6 and under.

If you like racing games and you're looking for just that something extra that gives it an edge over the competition, grab this game, put your face on a racer and speed down the tracks.  I bet even those who don't like racing games will get a little joy out of racing their own image through all the twists and turns.

I give this game 5 out of 6 thumbs up.

FACE RACERS: PHOTO FINISH GAME FEATURES INCLUDE:

• Put your face onto your very own racer!
• Customize not only your racer, but also the karts and billboards with your Nintendo 3DS™ camera.
• Use standard controls or try the 3DS gyroscope control scheme for a unique racing experience.
• Tons of power-ups like the “In Your Face Taunt” and “Triple Missiles” give you the leg-up on the competition.
• Supports single and multiplayer (for up to four players) kart racing action.
• Race through 20 exotic track locations like Ghost Ship and Outer Space.

 ~~ I received this product free for my honest review~~

Apple iPad 2

Technical Details
Sizes: 16GB, 32GB, 64GB | Item Shape: Wifi, Wifi & 3G  | Color: White or Black

9.7-inch (diagonal) LED-backlit glossy widescreen Multi-Touch display with IPS technology.
1 GHz dual-core Apple A5 custom-designed processor.
Forward facing and rear facing cameras.
Apple's iOS 4 and access to Apple's app store.

MY REVIEW:
My 11 year old asked Santa for an iPad for Christmas, kind of glad she did because we couldn't afford one. I mean it was this or a four-wheeler, I'm glad he brought this. The very first time I turned it on it froze on me. My first thought was, maybe I'm just not supposed to have a tablet, you've read the other reviews Motorola Xoom and Kobo Vox. So far I have had no luck with them. But I gave the iPad the benefit of the doubt and blamed myself "I hit the button too fast" you know, computers do it all the time. I find the iPad to be fantastic, I have Kobo, Kindle, iBooks any app I think I could ever need is on this tablet. Like the Xoom, I am able to load more than one email address into the email reader and that is fantastic, because I have so many of them. Now they are all in one place. I do absolutely love it.
It does have it's "this thing is a pain in the BEEP" moments... It freezes every so often, not a big deal as of yet, I can not write my reviews from it which is a huge downer for me, I have to share with my daughter....okay, that last one is not the fault if the tablet, nor is it an issue, it's nice to share something with her. She's a good kid and deserves to enjoy this wonderful tool.

My 3 year old can play games on it, and sometimes if I am doing something, like trying to get dressed I will let my1 year old doodle in one of the fantastic apps available. I can honestly say, I see what all the fuss is about. In so many ways I think, great product but the zoom did that too, this is lighter than the Xoom, I think it's the lightest tablet on the market right now, if I'm not mistaken. In all honesty, I think Apple products are all fantastic cutting edge products. I really love my iPad and the fact that everyone in the family has something to do out makes me very happy.

  I almost forgot to mention, "FaceTime" is my favorite feature.  It will come in very handy when my husband is away so he can still see the children because at these ages they do grow really fast.  I really like this feature, it's just another excellent way to keep in touch with each other, or family and friends who live far away.  We have friends all around the world, now we need to get them all to buy one of these amazing little devices.

I give this product 11 out of 12 thumbs up!

~~this product was given to my family by Santa Claus and was not given it to us to review but we think it's fantastic and wanted to share that~~

Wagner Paint 'N Roll Plus

PRODUCT INFORMATION:
• Wagner's manual roller system
• Manual plunger delivers paint to the roller
• 18 oz applicator paints up to 57 sq. ft. on one fill
• 9" (23 cm) roller splatter shield, can lid and suction tube included

 MY REVIEW:

I was cruising around my local Canadian Tire this afternoon with a friend looking for a birthday present.  Straight to tools and hardware we went.  As we all know, the paint desk is by hardware in Canadian Tire stores and there sitting on the shelves of "miss-tints" was this fabulous shade of blue, a nice Royal Blue, two cans actually.  Well, I impulsively picked them up thinking I was going to buy them and "use it someday", as I've done many times before.  Well, I then thought about actually painting, we've lived with the ugly light brown/tan color on our walls for more than 4 years and I was more than tired of it.  So I went to purchase a tray and roller set because that's what you need when you're painting a large room.  I took a look at the shelf and as I was getting ready to leave this Wagner Paint 'N Roll product jumped out at me.  I needed to purchase it, I said to my friend "even if it's bad, I'll still get a review out of it".  Well, here it is.  I love this product.  You attach the lid that comes in the box to the paint can and then place the extender on the lid, suck up some paint and away you go.  I have to admit, I didn't read the instructions, I have difficulty with that sometimes.  I mean, how many of you have gotten a new toy and just wanted to play with it?  Ya, that's what I thought.  It took about ten minutes to cover 2/4 of the room (our living room is about 20x14.5).  It is fantastic, in that time I only filled the wand twice, and although my husband doesn't agree with my color choice he is sure liking the Paint 'N Roll and I can't blame him, there is so much less mess than with the traditional tray and roller.  I love the convenience of not having to worry about dripping excess paint all over.  You slowly push the handle up and a decent amount of paint came out.  I really like this.  I would recommend it to anyone who wants to paint their rooms in minimal amount of time, with little mess.  Clean up seems to have taken a little longer, but if you're keeping your roller to re-use it you have to remember that this product works its way from the inside out, so it is thoroughly in that roller.  It's not going to just be a rinse and go, like the rest of the kit is.  The best part about this product is that it carries a 1 year exchange warranty redeemable at any Canadian Tire store.  How great is that.  If something starts to mess it up, in theory, you can take it back to any Canadian Tire in Canada and get a new one.
  Like I said, if you are painting a room, big or small, ceiling, anything, grab this product, I paid $25 for it and it was well worth it.  I may have to just paint my entire house now...Shhh don't tell my husband or he won't let me pick the colors.

I give this product 3 out of 4 thumbs up!

~~I purchased this product with my money and was not given it to review~~

Christmas in Guatemala 101 ebook

Product Description
This Christmas in Guatemala 101 ebook (available in print, pdf, and Kindle format) is a comprehensive guide from an insider's point of view, sharing my experiences and those of friends and acquaintances as told to me.
In addition, this book contains step-by-step Guatemala Christmas recipes, instructions on how to make Guatemalan Christmas ornaments, and fun Christmas activities for kids, as well.

Christmas in Guatemala 101: Traditions, Fun Activities, and Recipes for an Authentic Guatemalan Christmas has facts and insights that you won't find anywhere else.
This exclusive, information-packed ebook (of over 150 pages!) gives you a realistic look into the Guatemalan Christmas season... available at only a small fraction of the cost of a trip to Guatemala to experience it yourself.

MY REVIEW:
I was given the opportunity to read this book and give a review of it, I thought it would be a great thing for me because I love learning new things about people and places around the world.  Let's be honest here, I know nothing about Guatemala, country, people or traditions.  I was given 36 pages to read of the book, far cry from the "over 150 pages" that the book is supposed to have, but that's fine, it is a review copy.  I can tell you based on the pages I was able to read, the information is great, I know so much more about their Christmas traditions now.  The photos were fantastic as well, what a great way to illustrate the events of December.
  I love the recipes section.  I really enjoy cooking new things for my family and I can't wait to try some Buñuelos.  I am so excited to do some of the crafts that are in the book with my children and decorate the house a little with this.  I think Guatemalans sure know how to do Christmas, and Benjamin Barnett gave us a great look into it.  From his knowledge I have learned so much about something I knew nothing about.  I really enjoyed the book, I wish that is was the full 150+ pages but I have learned enough for now.  I really enjoyed so much, it was almost like I was there as I was reading his words.  Imagining the processions through town, envisioning what it must be like for them, how exciting it is for me just to know that this happens there.  I would love to visit around this December just to see it all actually happen.  I'm captivated with the excitement of Christmas and knowing that some people still celebrate it the way it deserves to be celebrated!  I love this book.  If you like learning new things about other cultures, like trying new crafts, recipes, I would suggest getting this.  It's available in different formats, PDF and on Amazon for your Kindle.  If you like the "old fashion" book you can pick one of those up too.  I enjoyed this so much, I would like to see Benjamin travel around and write some more books about other traditions around the world.  I could really get into them.

I give this book 2 out of 2 thumbs up!

~~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.~~

Cooking Mama 4: Kitchen Magic for the 3DS

Game Overview:
She cultivated your green thumb in Gardening Mama, turned your world into a work of art in Crafting Mama, and rocked the little ones to sleep in the innovative Babysitting Mama, but Mama's talent is truly unparalleled in the kitchen.  The original video game chef is whipping up all kinds of fresh fun in her 3DS debut.  From new recipes and ways to play to exciting kitchen activities and dish combinations, the iconic kitchen cutie has some tricks up her sleeve that will magically transform kitchen newbies into master culinary artists!

MY REVIEW:
Cooking Mama has been a favorite in this household for awhile now (thanks to facebook), my middle daughter adores playing it and when I had the opportunity to review this game I had to say yes.  I knew my daughter would be thrilled, she got the 3DS for Christmas in her stocking so it was perfect timing to be given this chance.  Of course, not that there was any doubt, my almost 6 year old really loves the game.  She enjoys the cutting and cooking and stirring, everything that we've all come to love about "Mama" is in this game, it's such a fun game, but a little slow.  I mean, I find myself getting bored, it doesn't help that I'm an impatient person, but really, everything is on a timer and you're trying to beat the clock but if you go too fast the things spill or break or whatever upset could happen with the task, it does.  But I guess that is the challenge of the game.  I do enjoy playing it, and it's easy enough for my three year old to play without difficulties.  I think it's a very cute game, but I do feel that it's too slow for myself, personally.  I find I get very bored quickly waiting for the one task to be finished for the next to start.  But, luckily, this game is geared toward children and my three who can play the 3DS love it.  Mind you, the 3D part is not good for children under 6 because their eyes are still developing and it will mess with them.  I don't even like to play it with the 3D on.  I have never been a fan of 3D, not in the movies and definitely not on my hand held video games.  This game itself is wonderful.  I could have done without the 3D though. 

  I give this game 5 out of 6 thumbs up.

Cooking Mama 4: Kitchen Master is developed by Cooking Mama Limited and published by Majesco Entertainment.  Rated E for Everyone.

Cooking Mama 4: Kitchen Magic features:

• Cook in new ways with the Nintendo 3DS gyroscope; move your handheld itself to crack eggs, balance plates of food, grate cheese and more.
• Watch kitchen mishaps unfold in comedic 3D events and work to save your mistakes with additional activities on top of each recipe step.
• Race against the clock as you set the table, wash dishes, clean up, organize, decorate, and more in new time-based activities!
• Combine any two recipes to make your very own delicious dish and whip up everything from designer cupcakes to gourmet popsicles, New England clam chowder and cherry pie.
• The stylus serves as your ultimate cooking utensil in over 200 unique mini games as you chop, slice, stir, knead, roll, toss and more.
• Recipes progress from simple to complex, from small to large dishes, so do your best to meet Mama's expectations and impress your friends!
• Combine two recipes to make your very own delicious or unusual dish.
• Cook off with up to 4 players using DS Download play.

~~ I received this product free for my honest review~~

While I'm Still Myself ~~GIVEAWAY~~

A passionate December love affair.
The meeting of an unexpected traveler.
The consequences of protecting a young new acquaintance.
A journey into an unknown past.

In the stories of While I’m Still Myself, Jeremy Lane eloquently describes the life changing impact of the brief encounter, showing that life and love are not shaped by an entire lifetime, but by the fleeting moments with unexpected people in unexpected places.

MY REVIEW:

I must admit, I don't read short stories often, and Jeremy Lane demonstrates perfectly with his book of short stories, just exactly why I don't read them.

As soon as you start to read his stories you're hooked, and before you know it they are over and you're begging for more, just a few more pages, a few more lines, what happens next.  Every one of his stories were well thought up and beautifully written.  He certainly has a way with words, he lures you in and makes sure you're paying attention and just when you think it's going to be predictable, something jumps out and takes you in a different direction.  I was not expecting to read the words I did in so many of his stories.  I have my favorites of his collection and some I like a little less, but they were all very well written and perfectly explained in the length of the story.  They leave you wanting more and I really like that.  I wish some of them had a different ending, a "happily ever after" but I most definitely wish that Jeremy writes another short story book, or even a longer one, I would love to see a full length book of his work.  I think he is a fantastic author and has a great sense of what captivates an audience.

You would never think some of the stories would end the way they did, some abruptly, but it is a short story, it's a story inside a story.  I mean, you know there is more to the lives of the characters and if you could just see outside the little box you have it would be so much better, but that's also where the intrigue comes in because you don't know what happens in the lives of the remaining person.  The heartbreak they feel.  I don't think I have one favorite, there are a few I like, I can relate to some and I can appreciate them all.  I would definitely recommend getting a copy of this book and if you would like an autographed copy you can email Jeremy

I give this eBook of short stories 2 out of 2 thumbs up.  Fantastic work.

Fantastic work.

There will be 1 copy of While I'm Still Myself to be given away, thanks to the generosity of Jeremy Lane.  Good Luck everyone.

The Boot Stroot

How To Guide

Using the Boot Stroot is as easy as:
C UFF   W RAP   S TRAP


Three easy steps to tuck your jeans in boots without bunching or bulges!
Steps to use the boot Stroot, described in video: 1. Cuff jeans and fold them on both sides so that they are flat against your ankle. 
2. Wrap the Boot Stroot around the cuffed jeans
3. Pull on your boot with your pants in boots.  No bunches.  No bulges.

MY REVIEW:
  I know we haven't really needed this product too much, yet, this year, but I have warn it on the few snowy days we've had.  And the days where my feet were cold and boots were a must.  I must say, I personally love it.  The one I got is brown, so it doesn't go as well with jeans as the blue one would have, or my black dress pants as the black one would have but that's okay, it's still fantastic, and really, I don't mind that much what it looks like.  I think it's comfortable and makes throwing my boots on in a rush so much easier.  No more fumbling with the pant leg only to get it in almost right and have to take my foot back out.  I wrap the Boot Stroot (strap + boot = Stroot) around my ankle in the morning and I'm good to go all day.

  I haven't actually been able to use it on some days when I'm just running in and out all day getting wood for the fire...because...I bought my son a sleeper and it's just a little too big for him, so I hike up the feet (too where they should be) and wrap the boot stroot around his ankles and he's golden.  No issues with the feet of the sleeper dragging on the floor and tripping him, nothing like that is going to happen because the Boot Stroot is here to save the day.  I bought him this sleeper for Christmas, so he's only had it two weeks, but those were a long two weeks when it instantly became his favorite sleeper.  Everything else on the sleeper is the right size, but the legs, they are at least one foot too long, kind of frustrating.  I was thinking of just giving them away, no point in saving them that long (lack of storage) but then one day as he was suffering from his dragging feet I remembered the Boot Stroot, I went to the kitchen and pulled it out of my boots, that's where I store them so they are never lost and I know I will have them when I go outside, I put them on my son and he loved it.  He felt very special. 

  I would completely recommend the Boot Stroot to anyone woman who wears boots, fashion or other.  I wear them with my dressy boots and also with my big clunky "wood getting boots".  They are great, makes the transition from not wearing boots to wearing boots WITHOUT THE BULK so much quicker
 

I give this product 4 out of 4 thumbs up.



 ~~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.~~

David Bach "Debt Free for Life" 6 Disc Audio book

GOODBYE DEBT-HELLO FREEDOM!

Most of us grew up with the idea that there is good debt and there is bad debt.  But as America's favorite financial coach, David Bach, points out, in difficult times there is no such thing as good debt.  There is only debt.  And all debt is too expensive-of what you desire is freedom!  In fact, Bach believes the best investment you can make today is to pay down your debt, faster and smarter than you have ever attempted before- STARTING TODAY! Offering a revolutionary approach to personal finance that teaches you how to pay down your debt and adopt a whole new way of living, Debt Free For Life unveils the Debt Wise program that empowers you to pare down your debt automatically.

Whether you have home loans, student loans, car loans, or credit card debt_paying down your debt is truly a game you can win, if you know the rules.  Debt Free For Life will teach you the rules and give you the tools to buy back your freedom. 

MY REVIEW:
  As I was listening to David Bach's book on disc Debt-Free for Life I realized, I'm not in debt, not that I can't get out of anyways.  There have been some good and bad things I have learned by listening to David's book.  First off, it's geared to Americans so if you are Canadian and want to listen to this the basic information will be fine, but all in all it has American terms etc that we just don't have north of the border.  I really did enjoy listening to the book, I was captivated by his thoughts and ideas, and they are good thoughts and ideas.  The story about the credit card in the microwave proves how desperate people can be to spend money that just isn't theirs.  I truly found it to be quite entertaining.  I knew most of what he was talking about already, and just like every other "get out of debt" book I found myself thinking "you're telling me everything I already know, that's great but how do I get their from here"  It's not enough just to pay off your debt, but he teaches us what to pay off first.  He has a fantastic program to help you figure out what to do, when to start (NOW) and what steps are key to completing your goal of financial freedom.  I personally LOVED listening to this audio book and I will be purchasing David's other books as well.  If you are drowning in debt David might just be the life preserver you're looking for.  I would recommend it for anyone in debt.  You can find David Bach on Twitter @AuthorDavidBach and on Facebook by his name. 

I give this 2 out of 2 thumbs up!

~~I purchased this audio book with my money and was not given it to review~~

Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer

Synopsis:
Megan McDonald's popular series of children's books comes to life on the big screen in this family-friendly adventure that finds mischievous third grader Judy Moody experiencing a summer she'll never forget. School is out, and with the endless possibilities that summer has to offer, Judy (Jordana Beatty) plans to have fun in the sun with her best pals Rocky and Amy. And right after learning that Rocky and Amy will both be leaving town with their families until fall, Judy finds out that her own parents are taking a trip to sunny California without the kids. At first Judy grows depressed at the thought of spending the summer at home with her little brother, Stink (Parris Mosteller), and their friend Frank Pearl, but once their aunt Opal (Heather Graham) arrives, things quickly start to look up. Later, after making a list of dares to spice up their summer at home, Judy and her friends discover you don't have to travel far to find real fun, because every day is an adventure if you want it to be. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi

MY REVIEW:
The first thing I want to say about this movie is "Steve Urkel"!!!  Okay, secondly, what a great movie for my children.  My oldest daughter went to see it at a friends birthday party when it was in theaters and when it hit the shelves my middle daughter wanted to own it right away.  We waited and gave it to her for Christmas, they watched it right away but my husband and I didn't sit down to watch it until tonight.  We sat down and watched it with our little girl for a "movie night just the three of us" and he loved it, while I have mixed feelings.  It's a fantastic children's movie I will give it that.  But personally I was finding it hard to keep my attention in so many places throughout the movie.  It was really fun for the children, they all seem to enjoy it and it was funny in some parts, but for me, they were few and far between.  Actually, I was relieved when it was finally over, I was in shock (a little bit) when my husband said it was a really cute movie, but sometimes (a lot of the times) our tastes differ and that's fine.  I just found it to be a little irritating.  This young girl has her whole summer ahead of her, the one thing she looks forward to every school year and she made this fantastic "NOT Bummer Summer" plan and just because two of her "TP Club" members are going away for the summer and having adventures of their own, she gets jealous and miserable and lets her entire summer slip away not realizing what an amazing time she is and could continue to have IF she'd stop competing and just have fun!  In the process of the "Dare Race" her two friends are away and having a wonderful time, completing dares and getting "Thrill Points" while hers are not coming at all.  Everything she tries to do fails and she blames it all on the one friend that remains.  Which of course will never end well, they have a fight and then her summer is ruined, yet again, I think by now we are at the sixth letdown of her not bummer summer.  She reminded me of one of my own children, sulking because not everything goes her way.  But I mean, for children they can relate to so much of this movie.  So, I would say for the age category this movie is geared to it will be/is a hit, but for the older generations, don't be surprised when you don't like it much.

  I would give this movie 9 out of 10 thumbs up!!

~~I purchased this movie with my money and was not given it to review~~

Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked

 The game is based on the Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked movie which hit theaters on December 16th, which finds the trio vacationing aboard a luxury cruise liner until they become ‘chipwrecked’ on a remote island. The Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked video game continues the story with an around-the-world journey that has the ‘Munks visiting six tropical locations inspired by the movie. While dancing as the playable Chipmunks or The Chipettes, players perform more than 50 different dance moves to excite the crowd while rocking out to 30 of the greatest Chipmunk tunes that all generations can enjoy together.

Full Music Track List Includes:

1. All Day and All of the Night
2. All Star
3. Beat It
4. Bring It On
5. California Dreamin’
6. Crocodile Rock
7. Hit Me With Your Best Shot
8. I Fought The Law
9. It’s Tricky
10. Just Like Heaven
11. Karma Chameleon
12. Kids In America
13. La Bamba
14. Life Is A Highway
15. Love Shack (w/ The Chipettes)
16. Oh Pretty Woman
17. Only Want to Be With You
18. Play That Funky Music Chipmunk
19. Shake Your Groove Thing
20. Stayin’ Alive
21. Surfin’ Safari
22. The Chipmunk Song
23. Turn the Beat Around (w/ The Chipettes)
24. Video Killed the Radio Star
25. Walkin’ On The Sun
26. We’re the Chipmunks (Deetown Remix)
27. Whip It
28. Witch Doctor
29. You Really Got Me
30. You Spin Me ‘Round

MY REVIEW:
 What a fantastic game for the wii!  It got my entire family up and dancing, even the baby.  I couldn't believe how much fun this was for everyone, whether you are the person dancing as the Chipmunks or Chipettes OR just the pesky little sister (or daddy in our case) who is just dancing because it's so much fun.  To be honest with you, as I always am, I was a little leery at first, I had planned to play this alone one night when my children and husband were away, but that never happens so I was thinking maybe when they were in bed.  Then one night my youngest three went to bed and my oldest daughter wanted to play a video game.  I said "well, mommy has this one to review, do you want to try it out?"  And of course an excited little girly squeal came out "YES!!"  And so began our night of fun and dancing excitement.  At first my daughter played, then my husband and finally it was my turn to get up there and embarrass myself but busting a move Chipmunk-style.  Well, in all honesty, I had the most fun that I have had in a very long time.  We have played games like DDR (the original, with the mats) and I didn't like them very much, to say the least I was not very good at them at all.  But the thing I absolutely love about this wii game compared to the matted style of the original DDR.... you are NOT stuck standing in one place.  This game is not about moving your feet tediously around a mat back and forth and back and forth.  In this wonderful high energy game you MUST move that body.  I mean it, get up, dust off your dancing shoes (or don't wear any, it's likely safer that way) and when the song starts be prepared to sweat your buns off.  This game encourages it's players to get up and move.  We have played some wii games and the children get lazy and sit down to do it, I honestly don't think you could with this game.  You need to get up and get dancing and even if you don't "like" to dance and want to sit down, I'm pretty sure this awesome soundtrack will keep you on your feet.  Who need exercise videos, throw this little disc into your wii and you will get that workout you've been too lazy to do.  I know that, despite my dislike of dancing, I love this game.  Playing it with our family is absolutely an amazing experience, and an opportunity for everyone, not just the "player" to get up and dance and have fun.  Chipwrecked has a fantastic lineup of songs, I was very impressed with the music on this game.  My daughter looked at me funny as I was trying to catch my breath from dancing and singing these songs that she doesn't know.... SUPER FUN GAME!!!  The graphics aren't bad for a video game, as you can see in the photos.  Very enjoyable experience!!!

   We even pulled this game out for our annual New Years gathering and our guests danced along too.  My favorite part is when you get to do a solo and I just go very crazy dancing, the chipette on the screen can't keep up, it gets my children and my husband laughing so hard, and I surprise myself a little just by the fact that this lazy butt can move that fast.  I really love this game, if you have children who love to dance, like my three girls, I would advice you to get this game. 

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS™: CHIPWRECKED VIDEO GAME NOW AVAILABLE ON KINECT FOR XBOX 360, Wii AND NINTENDO DS!

But this review is based solely on how I feel about the Wii version as that is the game that I've played.  I'm sure the Kinect version is likely pretty good, but as for the DS, I just don't see how it could be as much fun.  Luckily my big girls have a DS so we may have to find out.  Then compare the two?

~~ I received this product free for my honest review~~

BodyMind Weight Loss Hypnosis Mp3s

Product Description

BodyMind Weight Loss Hypnosis Pack is a set of 3 professionally scripted and recorded self-hypnosis sessions designed to manage and maintain weight loss, healthy eating, and exercise.

Used regularly, these recordings will naturally promote healthy habits and natural, effortless weight loss.

MY REVIEW:

   I must say I have never experienced "hypnosis" before and I'm not even sure that I did here.  I mean I was relaxed when I listened to these three recordings but I can't really say that I was under hypnosis.  I found the recordings to be very relaxing and that is great, I can't say if they will help me with my weight loss journey or not as I have only started listening to them.

  They come in three sessions.  The first week you are to listen to Healthy Eating, week two you listen to Naturally Slim and week three (next week) you listen to Fitness Motivation.  At the end of week three you listen to all three of them ONCE during week four and then once a month after that.  I must say that I hope the Fitness Motivation works.  It is the one I need.  I mean, I have a huge lack of "urge" to workout.  I know that I need to and I know it's part of helping me get to the goals I want but in all honesty, I'm lazy.  I run around chasing four children all day, isn't that enough exercise?  Really?!  Please say that's enough!!  Okay, well, now that I'm done begging and pleading I will get on with my hypnosis....

  The voice is very calming and it's so nice to feel relaxed for 10 minutes out of my days.  In a few months I hope I will be on my way to a much healthier me.  Of the three recordings I would have to say (as I already have) that the third one is the one that will effect me the most.  I have a good grasp on what foods are bad for me and we don't usually eat "junk food" in my house, my children call crackers "chippies" (I think I've mentioned that in another review).  I am just so proud of my families healthy eating, but it's the fitness that is going to be what I need to get a grasp on.  I am hoping that by the end of this third week, after listening to Fitness Motivation, I will be motivated to get off my butt and actually get out there and do things.  My husband loves to run, he does it almost every day (not right now because he's having back issues) and I would love to be out there and running with him.  I do periodically and I thoroughly enjoy it when I choose to do it, but when he pushes me into it because I said I would and changed my mind when I discovered sitting on the sofa is so much more fun for me, well, those are the times I really don't like to exercise.

  I truly believe that this product will do wonders for me, it will get me motivated and get me to shed those inches that I've been wanting to go away for years now, I mean four children have changed this body over and over again and it's time I take it back!  I want to have me back, and feel good about myself in the process.  I think this will help me a lot.  I can't wait to see what my future holds with these recordings!!!

 I give this product 2 out of 2 thumbs up!  Lets hope I see results soon (and once I do, you'll be the first to know)!!!

~~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.~~

Party Planning Checklists

 Product Description

When hosting parties, food is usually the star of the show. It is very important that the host choose enough recipes for the number of guests attending and that they complement each other. This Party Planning Checklist ebook was created to not only help entertainers choose enough of the right recipes, but to also help keep everything organized so that shopping and preparation is stress-free.

MY REVIEW:
I was really excited to be able to review this product because I love having a get-together, big or small.  We have at least five birthday parties every year and it's always hard to remember if we thought of every menu item.  Did I remember to get enough snacks?  One year I almost forgot the main food for the event.  Well, I will never have that issue again.  In these few pages of the Party Planning Checklist you will find there is enough spaces to plan for back up meals, you have plenty of room to think of what you would like for a menu item and then some more room to write down back up options, or rearrange, have some fun with it.  The checklist itself is very boring, it's just really plan and not fun, but it serves it's purpose.  I would have liked to see a little more color, some sort of design, I mean we're having a PARTY right?  Even the checklist should represent that.  I do think Sandee did a fantastic job making sure every category was accounted for, there is no loss for list making ability.  She did a wonderful job putting it all together the way that she has.  And the list itself is great, just a little too bland.  It does serve it's purpose though.  I can not take away from that.  She has thought of everything from Recipes To Serve to Table Arrangement, Beverage Coolers, Garbage and Recycle Bins.  This lady has made a wonderful checklist for us to know what we're going to be serving to our guests, and she's also made it very easy by helping us choose the days to prepare the food.  There are three columns for each section of the party.  I will never forget to serve any dish, I will remember what I need to buy when I go to the grocery store and I will throw fabulous parties with full menus and always have enough food for everyone.  Thank you Sandee for making this mommy's sometimes flustered and forgetful mind rest at ease!

You can go directly to Sandee's website to obtain your Party Planning Checklist.
Make sure you check out these links so you can.....
Like Theme Party Queen on Facebook
Follow this Theme Party Queen on Twitter
Check out Sandee Lembke's Pinterest pages

I give this product 3 out of 4 thumbs up!

~~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.~~

Colgate Sensitive Whitening Toothpaste

	Fights pain due to sweet/sour/hot/cold foods by desensitising nerves.
	Helps maintain the natural whiteness of your teeth.
	Significant inhibitory effect on the formation of supra-gingival calculus.
	Has a pleasant taste.
	You will notice improvement in 2-4 weeks.
	If your teeth are still sensitive after a month of consistent use, consult your dentist.

MY REVIEW:
 
   I have tooth sensitivity, I try to pretend it's not there and I have never really had the problems or pains that I been experiencing in the last few months.  I have always been a fan of Colgate it's the only toothpaste that I personally use.  I will buy everyone else in my house whatever they would like but for me, nothing feels like Colgate.  So, when I decided I had to do something for the pain of my teeth until I went to the dentist in the new year.  I went into my local grocery store for dog food and remembered.....I needed to get some stuff....so I bought some mouthwash (I wrote a review for this product tonight as well, check it out) and I grabbed some Colgate Sensitive.
  At first I likely looked a little lost standing in the toothpaste aisle of the grocery store with my 16 KG bag of dog food in one hand and my milk in the other, but I was so confused.  I've seen the commercials for Sensodyne and Colgate, I believe there were two other kinds of "sensitive teeth" toothpaste there which didn't make my choice any easier at that moment.  I mean, my gut instinct told me to stick with Colgate I trust them, love them and in my experience I don't like any other toothpaste brands.  So, why was this so difficult for me?  Well, all I can say is that the media got in my head and was pulling strings.  But in the end I picked what I new and loved.  I guess what?  Yep, that's right, I love it.  The box says that it will take two weeks for the product to fully work, but let me tell you, I could feel a difference during the first brushing.  I have used it in the morning and at night and I have loved it.  I can drink and eat, almost, anything again and it feels great.  I mean, I have two cavities so I'm not going to be able to eat a lot of sugar and have no worries but the actual sensitivity from my teeth themselves (not the pain from the cavities) has been relieved so much.  And if I do happen to eat something that bothers my teeth, like the delicious fudge I had last night at our new years eve gathering, well I will do as I did last night when ran right upstairs, almost in tears because my cavity was having a party of it's own in my mouth, dancing all over my tooth and bringing tears to my eyes.  But what do I say about that......COLGATE SENSITIVE SAVED THE NIGHT!!!  I brushed any little food that was on my tooth away, helped protect the surrounding teeth and I was in no more pain when I finished brushing.

   I am so happy to have found this toothpaste, I really think it has become my new favorite.  I love it!!!

I give this product 2 out of 2 thumbs up, way to go Colgate, you made my mouth smile!

~~I purchased this product with my own money and am writing a review because I think you all deserve to know how fantastic I think it is~~

Listerine Total Care

The Most Complete Mouthwash*, now with less intensity.

New LISTERINE^® TOTAL CARE ZERO gives you all the healthy mouth benefits of LISTERINE^® TOTAL CARE, now with less intensity and ZERO alcohol.

One mouthwash - many benefits:

• Helps Prevent Cavities
• Restores Enamel
• Strengthens Teeth
• Kills Bad Breath Germs
• Cleans the Whole Mouth
• Freshens Breath

*Among OTC fluoride rinses. 

MY REVIEW:

  I am a baby when it comes to oral care, if it stings I don't use it.  Which is why I NEVER USE MOUTHWASH!!  I know horrible right?  Well, I just can't do it.  My mouth is so sensitive to the "tingles" of Listerine that I can't bare to do it, and the taste of Crest mouthwash, no way!  Before I even have a cap full in my mouth I am already leaning over the sink and spitting it as quickly as I can into the sink, then I follow that by a few minutes (maybe as many as five) of "rinsing" my mouth out with cold/luke warm water.  I know it sounds like a terrible thing to have to go through twice a day, so I just don't.  I would rather not experience such terrible feelings.  That is until now.  I have been having extra sensitivity in my teeth for a couple months but didn't think anything of it, I assumed it was the regular sensitivity that I have.  Then of course because there is no better time than Christmas when everyone is going on holidays and there is not a dentist to be found in my office, I need to go.  Then again, there is only one dentist there anyway and he's been my dentist my entire life so I'd rather wait out the holidays and see him in the new year.
  All was going as planned until one day the pain was so much I couldn't bare to eat anything.  Well I tried out this awesome toothpaste (I will review that tonight too) and bought this Listerine Total Care.  I thought, if something was going to work then this was what had to work.  I have seen the commercial for both products and they sounded great.  As I was searching around in my mirror, very hard to see the back of your mouth but I was trying hard, I discovered that I have two cavities in my wisdom teeth, which I'm sure aren't going to feel too pleasant to get them fixed but secondly, I needed a temporary plan of action until then because I really was having difficulty eating or drinking anything.  So, I tried this Listerine and holy cow, I LOVE IT!  Mind you, I don't use the whole cap full, yet, but I'm working my way up to it.  I have found this to be a lot more tolerable of a tingle and I actually really enjoy swishing it around in my mouth.  When I spit it out (I don't last as long as my husband with his mouthwash but I'm just thrilled I can do it at all), I do not use any water to rinse out this mouthwash, it leaves my mouth feeling gently tingly and I really like it.  My favorite part other than the actual results using the product is that it's PURPLE!!  Totally feminine color, and total irrelevant to the action or results, but I know when I tell my husband to go get some purple Listerine he's not going to come home with the wrong shade of blue or green.  It is an absolutely fabulous product and I would recommend everyone who wants to try something other than their regular mouth-burning-wash to try this out.  It's remarkable.  If you don't like mouthwash, like myself, because of the overpowering tingle that makes it feel like your mouth is on fire, I advise you go out and get a bottle of this, it will change your oral health routine.  I wish I had have been brave enough to try it before, maybe I wouldn't have any cavities.  Well, maybe not but who knows.  I know one thing for sure, I will use this mouthwash every day, two times a day, for the rest of my life (as long as they continue to make it and don't change the formula too much to make it turn out terrible).

I give this product 2 out of 2 thumbs up!

~~I purchased this product with my own money and am writing a review because I think you all deserve to know how fantastic I think it is~~