Silkki's Reviews: TalkNotes Plus App for Android Review

I got this really cool app to test a couple weeks ago.  I really liked it, except I kept forgetting to use it all the time.... check out the review here.  Silkki's Reviews: TalkNotes Plus App for Android Review: Description TalkNotes Plus is a Business Productivity tool that allows you to enter and review notes for your contacts during a call. Ne...

TalkNotes Plus App for Android Review


Description
TalkNotes Plus is a Business Productivity tool that allows you to enter and review notes for your contacts during a call. New feature added is the pen drawing mode. This comes up when Samsung Galaxy Note S-Pen is detached on the Note Entry/Modify screen.
* Refund Policy: 48 hours (15 minutes is not enough time!)
* Extended Caller Identification
* Set Appointments and Reminders Integrated to Google Calendar
* Automated Activation of App on Call Pick up or Hang up for Easy Note Taking
* Backup and Recovery to Cloud
* Export Call Log to MS Excel
* Galaxy Note S-PEN integrated; save writing, drawing, along with picture and sound as note attachments
Features
EXTENDED CALLER IDENTIFICATION
The call ringing dialog provides additional information on the caller beyond the caller name, like company, department, matter, special note on contact, as well note on the last conversation.
ONGOING CALL DIALOG
Ongoing call dialog is presented on call pick-up, on call drop, or manual invoked, depending on settings.
This console becomes the center of information during the phone call, providing ease of notes entry that would be associated with the contact. Meanwhile the subjects of previous conversation are visible, with full details just clicks away
Reminder could be entered, setting date and time of follow up, as well as notes on the purpose and agenda. Reminder alarms could be automatically set through the Google Calendar.
This console also allows turning the speakerphone on or off, as well as hanging up; lending to the app being the center of call control.
FULL NOTES DATABASE
The data that drives the call ringing and ongoing call dialogs are derived from a full notes database. This database allows storing notes with sound and picture attachments. Notes could be attached to phone numbers, call log items, contacts, or independent.
There is full search, sort and filter capabilities, based on fields like contact, date of note create, update, or reminder date.
Quick menu is provided for the note list, that allow call, SMS, email to contact associated with the note. Tweets and FaceBook posting could also be generated. The email send would include all attached sound and picture files.
Any information that needs to be at the finger tip could be stored.
Provided is export and import to and from the cloud, as well as to the smart phone SD CARD.
TODO LIST
Apart from reminder for call follow up, TalkNotes Plus could be used to manage of TODO or Task list. Notes could be entered associated with Task or TODO items, list of sub-task could be entered into notes. The list for the day could be obtained through the sort by event and filter for the day. The items associated with contacts could be followed up with phone call, SMS or email, through the quick menu. Once concluded the task note could be marked as completed.
CONTACT MANAGEMENT
TalkNotes Plus contact information is built on the standard Android native contact database. It provides alternative means of accessing the contact list, with enhancements like allowing sort order by company, first/last name, last name/first name, as well as providing list of notes associated with contact through the quick menu.
TalkNotes Plus provides means to manage Company and Matters information. Contacts could then be associated with these, which show up in the caller identification.
CALL LOG MANAGEMENT
Call log listings is provided which provides additional sort and filter facilities, as well as easy add and view of associated notes.
There are features allowing exporting Call Log data to Excel spreadsheet on the SD CARD
Keywords : CallNotes, call note, Notebook, NotePad, Notes, Todo list, Todo, To do List, To do, To-do, Call reminder, reminder note, list maker, Calendar, Task, Memo, text editor, Sticky Note, Post It, notes, notepad, memo pad, memo widget, sticky, editor, getting things done, caller ID, caller identification, contact management, CRM, Call log, call log manager, call log notes, cloud backup

MY REVIEW:
I took the opportunity to review this product because I thought it would be a great tool for "my other life", the one where I leave the house to work.  I found that I used it quite a lot when talking to... my husband.  He would remind me of things we would need or he would say something during the phone call and it would spark a memory of something I wanted to write down for him to do later or something I needed to buy at the store.  I also found it came in very handy when talking to clients as well, taking down phone numbers of people I needed to call while I was on the phone, made my life a lot easier.  You don't always have a pen and paper on you, and if you do you usually can't find it, if you're anything like me.  Well, this is the perfect app for that.  The option is there as soon as your phone starts ringing, place calls through the app and you're ready to write.  Can take down multiple notes from conversations with the same person at different times or on different days, and they are all conveniently in one place when you need to go over them.

  With this app you'll never forget what your wife told you to pick up for dinner, never forget where your boss told you to go to pick something up.  It is a fantastic app for those who are always on the go and need to remember things quickly, easily and conveniently.  I must admit, I didn't use it as often as I likely should have and it could have been of great usefulness but that is my own error for not remembering I have it.  I truly believe that if you grab this app, and you take the time to learn to use it properly, put it into use routinely and remember you have it, then it will make you life a lot easier.

I give this 2 out of 2 thumbs up!!

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

Silkki's Reviews: THE CROODS: Belt on the red carpet

I am so excited to see this movie... my kids can't wait either!!! Here's a little clip. Silkki's Reviews: THE CROODS: Belt on the red carpet: The Croods coming to BluRay and DVD tomorrow!!  CAN'T WAIT!!

THE CROODS: Belt on the red carpet

The Croods coming to BluRay and DVD tomorrow!!  CAN'T WAIT!!

~~Silkki's Reviews received this **Media Alert** and thought my readers would be interested~~

Canada's Largest Pokemon Gathering

To learn more about Canada's Largest Pokemon Gathering or to find other locations for this event click HERE!!
~~Silkki's Reviews received this **Media Alert** and thought my readers would be interested~~

Stumbled upon a Kindle Fire giveaway today!!

I was browsing the web as I often do while my Little B is napping and I stumbled upon this giveaway!!
Kindle Fire HD.

Giveaway Details
1 winner will receive their choice of a Kindle Fire 7″ HD (US Only), $199 Amazon Gift Card or $199 in Paypal Cash (International).
There is a second separate giveaway for bloggers who post this giveaway on their blog. See details in the rafflecopter on how to enter to win the 2nd Kindle Fire.
Ends 10/31/13
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the participating authors & bloggers. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

Articles of the Mind eBook Review


Product Description
Articles for the Mind is a collection of 58 short articles about: beauty, health, careers, education, family, pets, financial planning, frugal living, money, food, holidays, home, psychology, self-help, values, and writing. The articles are very informative and contain savvy advice for those interested in gaining helpful knowledge and improving their life.

MY REVIEW:
  This book is full of many useful tips and tons of information that might be useful to many people.  Many of us are looking for the little “secrets” to successful living, healthy living, working, all aspects of life people feel that there is some magical secret that the universe holds.  In this book you will read many useful tidbits of knowledge the author has gained over the years through a multitude of personal employment opportunities.  I have learned some new things through reading this book, I have personally decided that I will to incorporate some of these things, some I had already developed into my life but there is always room for improvements.  I think this book is a great way for many people to read things they “already knew” but needed someone to tell them anyway.  I don’t know about you, but I am one of those people, I find it very easy to know everything and very difficult to actually do what I know I should be doing.
  I think my favorite part of this book is knowing that I’m not the only one who thinks you should quit your job if you’re not happy there.  Yes, I said it.  I believe it, and so does this writer. She’s a smart lady, with a lot of smart facts to make our lives happier, healthier and better to live.  This book is a great resource for those who like to learn, I am among them, those who enjoy reading or watching something just to learn things you didn’t already know, or confirming those that you did know.
  Inside you will find some information on maintaining your Mother-Daughter relationship, as you all know I have three daughters, so I found this part of the book particularly interesting and potentially full of useful information, depending on the relationship you currently have, how old your children are etc. I know when my girls have moved out and we no longer live together I will definitely be getting as much face to face time as I can.  The girls are almost 13, 7.5 and 3 right now and I cannot even begin to imagine my home without the sounds of their constant bickering and screams of dislike.   But when they do move out I will now have some new ideas of how to continue to have a strong Mother-Daughter relationship with each of them.
  Next we move on to financing.  Who couldn't use some more information on how to budget and spend wisely? A little frugal living never hurt anyone, I think this is a must read chapter, you can always learn something that you didn't know.  Just one more helpful bit of information to better budget and help you survive this crazy thing called life.  There is always more shopping time than money, but if you want to live your life free of debts it is always nice to learn about better options, more tips and ideas to help you not get into money troubles.  I suggest everyone read this chapter, hopefully you can all pick up at least one useful tidbit of knowledge here.
 There are many more chapters that I didn't mention, not because they weren't interesting (they are) but because I don’t want to give the whole book away.  I believe there is something in this book for everyone.

I give this book 1 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.~~

Silkki's Reviews: Disney's The Little Mermaid Diamond Edition

Completely enjoyed watching this with my children.... The Disney traditions continue....Silkki's Reviews: Disney's The Little Mermaid Diamond Edition: The Little Mermaid: Diamond Edition Blu-rayTM Combo Pack Ariel (voiced by Jodi Benson), is a free-spirited mermaid, who is off on th...

Disney's The Little Mermaid Diamond Edition

The Little Mermaid: Diamond Edition Blu-rayTM Combo Pack

Ariel (voiced by Jodi Benson), is a free-spirited mermaid, who is off on the adventure of a lifetime with her best friend, the adorable Flounder (voiced by Jason Marin), and the reggae-singing Caribbean crab Sebastian (voiced by Samuel E. Wright) at her side. But it will take all of her courage and determination to make her dreams come true—and save her father’s beloved kingdom from the sneaky sea witch Ursula (voiced by Pat Carroll). 
Bonus Features: All-New Music Video; @ Disney Animation; Disney Intermission; Deleted Character; The Real Little Mermaid: Live Action Reference Model; Part of Her World: Jodi Benson’s Voyage To New Fantasyland; Howard’s Lecture; Classic DVD Bonus Features

MY REVIEW:

Things happen when they happen...

  Moving to the country was a long time in the making.  We lived in the city for 1 year and 3 months, the most miserable year and 3 months of our lives.  We decided to start looking for a new home shortly after moving into the semi in the city, that's how not city we are!!  Well, after a long year of looking at homes and getting our hopes up we decided that maybe now wasn't the time to move.  And then it happened.  My husband took flight for the coast for 3 months and that evening I heard back from a couple that their house was still available and I could come take a look.  I did, it wasn't love at first sight by any means.  The previous occupants were smokers, and you could tell, it showed and the smell still lingers to this day.  Hopefully it will be gone soon.  There were bags and boxes everywhere, I'm not sure if that's how they lived or if they were in the process of packing but it was not at all appealing to the eye. One of the downstairs rooms, the one my oldest uses as a bedroom was housing some rabbits and there was rabbit droppings all over the floor, it was kind of gross.  The house needed work.  Unfortunately, I had built this home up in my mind, the price was too good to pass up, there were 5 beds two baths, and many many beautiful acres....well, I left very disappointed, I was going to just leave it but something inside of me told me this was the house.  A couple days had passed and I finally made up my mind, I was going to make an offer, a plea really, I wanted to live in that house and I wanted the owners to say YES!!! And they did!
  We tried to keep it secret and not tell my husband, and we succeeded for a short time, I spent the month of June painting and moved in July, and then he found out.  I thank Facebook for that but it's fine, he was happy and we were all happy.  It's been a long couple of months; packing, painting, moving, unpacking, construction, new bathroom, septic issues, toilet issues, floor leveling, and so much more.  We got a second dog because my monster needed a playmate.  And he loves her.  A couple weeks ago we fixed up one of the sheds and purchased some chickens... That was one thing we knew we were going to do when we moved.  You see, with 6 people, we eat a dozen eggs per meal when we eat eggs, and they are expensive.  We love chickens and my husband has decided that one is "his", "she likes me" lol.  What a guy.

  Well, I better get back to it, a farmers work is never done, but that I mean laundry and dishes... ugh!! Have a great day all.  Hope you enjoy the weather we're having today.

LittleTikes, LaZBoy and Simon & Schuster giveaway...

I received an email today about a giveaway that's happening RIGHT NOW!! Head over to the Warm And Cozy Sweepstakes over at LittleTikes for more information.  Keep in mind this is open to legal residents of the U.S.A.  Sorry to all my Canadian readers, I was disappointed too!  Good luck to anyone who enters!!

~~Silkki's Reviews has nothing to do with this Sweepstakes but I thought I would pass it along to my U.S.A. readers in case some were interested in it!!~~

Modern Family Season 4 REVIEW

Join TV’s #1 family for another hilarious and refreshingly original season of Modern Family, winner of eleven Emmy® Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series two years in a row! As the extended Pritchett/Dunphy clan faces an uproariously unpredictable array of family vacations, holiday hassles, troublesome in-laws, and surprising secrets, they still somehow manage to thrive together as one big, loving family — even as they drive each other absolutely insane! Season Three features a hilarious gag reel and never-before-seen couch confessions that will make you laugh out loud and remind you why viewers and critics alike have fallen in love with this thoroughly Modern Family.

MY REVIEW:

The View From the Kitchen Window...

As I'm preparing dinner today I look out my kitchen window, which my fridge is perfectly positioned right beside..not on purpose at all.. well maybe a little on purpose!! This is the view I see.  I love it! Our miserable year in the city was well worth this beautiful location that we have now.  I'm so happy with how things have turned out.  We always learn that we really don't like a lot of things that we are going through at the time but when we get through them we learn that it's not that terrible, it was definitely worth it.  Not all the time mind you, but some times it happens that way.

Strawberry Shortcake Berry Bitty Mysteries REVIEW

Strawberry Shortcake: Berry Bitty Mysteries
Get ready for mischief, mystery and marvelous good times in Strawberry Shortcake: Berry Bitty Mysteries. You’ll follow the clues to fun and adventure as Strawberry and her pals learn to face their fears, become real-life heroines and find some missing VIP’s (Very Important Pets)! It’s glimmery girl power to the rescue in these stories of friendship!

Special Features:
  Printable Coloring Pages

MY REVIEW:

Home at last!!! We miss you Great Wolf Lodge

Well, our vacation came to an end yesterday... we wanted to stay and swim all day but we also wanted to beat Toronto traffic and get through before rush hour.  So, we headed out around 1, I believe, and I was reading a book that I have to review "Resolution" well, I don't know if it was the long couple of days, the swimming, the heat (cold depending on where in the van you were) or just the drive but after we pulled over at Little Caesar's for our two pizza's and bread sticks (sadly, not enough food for the six of us) we ate our lunch and were on our way again.  Shortly after we hit the highway I fell asleep, I think the traffic was getting to me and making me tired also.  I put my iPad down and I drifted off into a nice slumber, woke up on the east end of Toronto, I think it was around Whitby, and felt well rested.  Just in time for a bathroom break.  We got home yesterday and had enough time to feed the kids and get them ready for bed.  Much to their surprise, I was expecting it, Strawberry Shortcake was in our mailbox when we got home and my little B and I have been having a Berry Bitty Mysteries kind of morning... so nice :)  Hope everyone else has been doing well today!!  
Check out Silkki's Reviews for the review.  It'll be there later on today.

Happy Birthday Little Man!!!

  Tomorrow is my son's fifth birthday and what an exciting few days he's had.  His Uncle, my brother, took him for a ride in his boat on Friday, he had his birthday party with friends at our house on Saturday and then Sunday we took the 4 hour trek to Great Wolf Lodge in Niagara Fall, Ontario.  Yes, I did, as always, sing "Niagara Falls, Ontario.." as I always do...thank you MarineLand for that.
  I let all three of my older children play hooky from school Monday and Tuesday, although they have missed school a little bit I think they like this much more.  There is an arcade here and we have enjoyed it greatly, and spent a lot of money there.  My youngest daughter won 5000 tickets, she hit the JACKPOT, which was super awesome but it left mommy sitting on the floor waiting for five thousand tickets to pop out of the machine... whoever thought that was a great prize had a heck of a lot more patience than this lady!!!
 I booked a Kid Cabin room and the first night we were here the youngest two girls slept with me in the Queen bed, my husband and son slept on the pullout and then my oldest slept on the top bunk of the bunk bed.  Hopefully tonight everyone sleeps comfortably because tomorrow we're going to be heading home and I don't want grumpy children... too long a drive for that.  Well, I better get to bed, we need to get up early to make the most of our last half day here.  Check out is 11am :( Sadly, we aren't going to want to leave then, but I'm pretty sure we get to still swim after that.......only time will tell.

Have a great night everyone.  Another 2 hours and 10 minutes and my Little Man is 5..holy cow!! Happy Birthday Bud!  We all love you!!

Birthday Party Fun

We had a blast at my Little Man's 5th birthday party.  I had a "MommyParty" to host and this was a great opportunity to incorporate both fun and learning. We were supposed to go for a wagon ride, but one issue after another kept happening.  First the team we originally were going to take had a surprise foal, then it poured rain all day so it didn't end up happening with a back up team either.  And despite illness and sleepy heads who wouldn't wake up in the car we still had a great party.  You can check out the LeapReader review at Silkki's Reviews: LeapReader "Ready, Set, Read & Write" MommyParty: Product Features LeapReader helps your child learn to read and write with confidence by teaching reading comprehension, vocabula...

LeapReader "Ready, Set, Read & Write" MommyParty


Product Features

  • LeapReader helps your child learn to read and write with confidence by teaching reading comprehension, vocabulary and listening skills
  • Features a LeapReader, activity sampler, Learning Paper writing sheet plus download 1 Audio Book Bundle, 1 Music Album and 1 Trivia Challenge pack
  • Works with LeapReader and Tag books (a library of 150+ books, games and more). Sold separately. Select Tag books only
  • Teaches reading, comprehension, phonics skills, vocabulary, writing and letter forms
  • Ages 4-8 years





MY REVIEW:
Today we had the joy of celebrating my son's 5th birthday with his school friends.  Mind you his birthday isn't until Tuesday and he made sure everyone knew it wasn't today!!
  So, I received this fantastic party kit.  My kit included to 2 LeapReaders, Learn to Write Letters With Mr. Pencil Writing Workbook, Talking Words Factory Writing Workbook, LeapFrog Disney-Pixar Monsters University 3D book, Get Ready for Kindergarten book, Talking Word Factory Flash Cards and 2 LeapReader Sampler books, among some grown-up paperwork.
 All of the children had such fun.  I must admit I have seen these "pens" in stores and been very skeptical, I mean really?! a pen that can read to you.  How is that even possible, how is technology getting so advanced that a pen can touch a piece of paper and tell you what's on it?  What's in the paper that can enable that to happen?  Well, I may never know, do any of you?  Not that it matters at all.  What matters is that my children and the other party guests loved reading with these LeapReaders, they had so much fun.  The Talking Word Factory Flash Cards seem to have been a favorite, although the kids didn't always match up the words that were associated with the picture on the card it was fine because the cards still let them know what words they were making.  I love this product.  I really think that this is a great learning tool for children just starting out and learning the sounds of the letters, those learning how to put the letters together to form words, those learning to read on their own.  Even my older two girls played with it after the party was over.  My 3 year old was playing with her LeapReader in the car and within half an hour she could perfectly recite the alphabet... no this doesn't work magic, she's been learning the alphabet for a long time now but not always getting them all in the right order. Now she can.  I'm so proud of her.  My eldest daughter (almost thirteen) says she wished she had this for all her books... she's a bookworm and loves to read, and I'm sure one day in the future they will!  But for now, for all those children just starting out or the ones who need a little extra reading fun, I suggest you go out and grab yourself a LeapReader, it's a fantastic learning aid, you will not be disappointed...at least I don't see how you could be, it's a wonderful tool!!

We give this product 12 out of 12 thumbs up!!

~~I received free LeapFrog products in order to host the LeapFrog sponsored MommyParty. The opinions expressed here are, as always, my own~~
~~Party goers faces were "LeapFrog"'ed out for their privacy~~

Win Clear Skin For Life

Truth In Aging is giving away Clear Skin For Life (over $500 value) to two lucky winners. Stop using toxic and/or chemical lotions and start treating your acne with FDA approved devices from Quasar that really work.

Enter to win

Aoede's "What Are Dreams Made Of?" CD


Product Description

What Are Dreams Made Of? (Sep 2013) is a unique musical story combining narration, story, characters, and music intended for tweens and teens and tells the tale of Aoede the Muse’s adventures in the magical kingdom of Wonderhaven. Aoede has a bad dream, children go missing, and Aoede has to explore both overland and underworld where she meets magical characters including fairies, goblins and dream gods, to figure out what it means. The collection includes guest voice artists, renowned actor Michael Des Barres (“Phobetor”) and David Yow (“Luk”), founding member of the band The Jesus Lizard. "What Are Dreams Made Of?" is Aoede's fourth album and sixth release.

Is Love A Fairy Tale? (Sep 2012) is recipient of 3 Awards: Creative Child Magazine's "Preferred Choice Award-Kid's Cd Category", Tillywig Toy Award-"Sterling Fun," and Family Review Center's "Gold Award" as well as LA Music Awards-Children's Album of the Year and ISC Winner for Children's Music and John Lennon Songwriting Contest Finalist. It was considered for Best Children's Album in the 55th Annual Grammy Awards.

MY REVIEW:
  I got this in the mail today and I thought what a great day to get it since we'd be on the road for a lot of the evening.  We popped it right into the CD player in the van and away we went.  My oldest daughter didn't seem too pleased with it and actually questioned "what are you listening to?"  She made me think of her Grandmother, my Mother, it was so funny.  My second daughter kept asking for it to be turned up as the other three were making too much noise for her to hear it.  I was very pleased to hear that.  There was a mixed review in the van today about this CD but luckily on the way home from our adventures, everyone was sleeping and I got to play the CD through for the second time.  I picked up on a lot of bits and pieces that I had missed and I'm really glad I did.
  I actually quite enjoyed this CD, which says a lot because I don't normally like things like this.  Although, to be fair, I have never really heard anything like this.  It's a story, but it's singing, too.  It's actually very pleasant to the ears. I liked that the story voices weren't loud & obnoxious and the singing voices were very peaceful and calming.  It's not the type of thing that I would listen to all the time but it's definitely worth listening to again.  I love Mythology and I do like magic and fantasy, it's really worth a listen if you are interested in any of those three things.  I would suggest if you have some long driving and you want something to intrigue your mind, acquire this CD when it comes out on Tuesday, I think you'll be happy you did.  But be careful, if you like to envision what you're hearing, you have an active imagination, or get easily lost in fantasy... you may want to be the passenger because this story is very easy to envision scenes playing out in your head.

 I give this 5 out of 8 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.~~

The official release date is Tuesday, September 24, 2013.
Album website is currently under development.
You can connect with Aoede on FACEBOOK and TWITTER pages!

The Smart Savvy Mama: GIVEAWAY!!! $10 E-Giftcard to Toms.com - Celebra...

I just entered this giveaway... would be awesome to win!!

The Smart Savvy Mama: GIVEAWAY!!! $10 E-Giftcard to Toms.com - Celebra...: To celebrate reaching 1,000 likes on Facebook , I am personally hosting a giveaway for a $10 e-giftcard to Toms.com . While on the su...

Silkki's Reviews: ~~GIVEAWAY~~ The Complete Second Season New Girl

Silkki's Reviews: ~~GIVEAWAY~~ The Complete Second Season New Girl: How to Celebrate Your Friend-iversary  Available on DVD October 1   The audience got to witness a momentous milestone in Nick and...

Silkki's Reviews: ~~GIVEAWAY~~ Thirty Scary Tales eBook

Silkki's Reviews: ~~GIVEAWAY~~ Thirty Scary Tales eBook: The stories in this book present a buffet of fear in its subtle flavours: suspense, apprehension, foreboding, disquiet. They don’t shock...

Silkki's Reviews: ~~GIVEAWAY~~ The Croods on BluRay with a Belt Plus...

Silkki's Reviews: ~~GIVEAWAY~~ The Croods on BluRay with a Belt Plus...: Croodaceous Creatures  Available on Digital HD September 15 and Blu-ray & DVD October 1  Throughout their adventure, the Croo...

Terry Fox National School Run Day...

My children are supporting their school's 2013 Terry Fox National School Run Day. They are proud to be part of this Terry Fox Fundraiser and would love for you to support their efforts to find a cure for all cancers, just like Terry did!!!

  If you can support them online that would be fantastic, if you have your own children to support, neighbors children, don't have the funds or are unable for whatever other reason, don't feel ashamed to decline.  That is a feeling I know all too well.  We don't have a lot of money and whenever we have "extra" it's really not extra, it's spot just hasn't shown it's face yet.  I donate when I can and I help when I can, it's not always possible and I feel bad, guilty actually.  The grocery stores ask for donations, along with other stores, "donate to the local breakfast club"...well, I would love to but you're always asking for that right when school starts, right when I have just outfitted four children with all the back to school supplies I can think of and then some for the school to keep in their possession.  Anyway, I could ramble on but I'm losing site of what I'm trying to say... Please donate if you can, Cancer Research is very important, many people die every year and I pray that one day with all the funding they receive they may find a cure!! Some day!!

Thanks again!!

Terry Fox National School Run Day

My children are supporting their school's 2013 Terry Fox National School Run Day. They are proud to be part of this Terry Fox Fundraiser and would love for you to support their efforts to find a cure for all cancers, just like Terry did!!!

  If you can support them online that would be fantastic, if you have your own children to support, neighbors children, don't have the funds or are unable for whatever other reason, don't feel ashamed to decline.  That is a feeling I know all too well.  We don't have a lot of money and whenever we have "extra" it's really not extra, it's spot just hasn't shown it's face yet.  I donate when I can and I help when I can, it's not always possible and I feel bad, guilty actually.  The grocery stores ask for donations, along with other stores, "donate to the local breakfast club"...well, I would love to but you're always asking for that right when school starts, right when I have just outfitted four children with all the back to school supplies I can think of and then some for the school to keep in their possession.  Anyway, I could ramble on but I'm losing site of what I'm trying to say... Please donate if you can, Cancer Research is very important, many people die every year and I pray that one day with all the funding they receive they may find a cure!! Some day!!

Thanks again!!

“Homeland” Season Two


Synopsis:
“Homeland” makes its triumphant return after winning six Emmy® Awards, including Outstanding Lead Actress for Claire Danes, Outstanding Lead Actor for Damian Lewis and Outstanding Drama Series. Marine Sgt. Nicholas Brody (Lewis) is now a U.S. congressman, and former CIA agent Carrie Mathison (Danes) has returned to civilian life. But when a new and potentially devastating terrorist threat emerges, Brody and Carrie's lives become intertwined once again and they resume their delicate dance of suspicion, deceit and desire. Delve deeper into the edge-of-your-seat excitement with the thrilling second season of this "unmissable and gloriously suspenseful" (USA Today) hit show.

MY REVIEW:
Without watching Season One it takes a minute to figure out what's going on but this show is definitely easy to get lost in, as in captivated by, like so entranced that you forget to cook dinner until bedtime.  And yes, sadly, I did that!
I really enjoyed this season, except I do think it could do with a little fewer "waterworks" by Claire Danes.  The show itself is really good but it doesn't need that much crying, weeping, sad, sorry for you drama.  I feel bad saying that but really, why is her character so much of a baby?  Clearly there are some issues that she has, the mental kind, I can only assume they would have shown us in Season 1 what her problems are but since I didn't watch it I think she needs to stop tearing up every episode.  Although, you do know that she was made to believe that she's completely nuts so that could be the soul reason.  Makes you wonder, if the CIA treat their own like that then how do they treat the people they're "against"?
I enjoyed this show, I will definitely watch it again, maybe go back and watch Season 1 and then continue on from there.  I can really appreciate this series, it is my type of show.  Unfortunately, they usually stop playing the show that I really like so maybe I shouldn't say that too loud.

I give this show 1 whole thumb and 1 to the knuckle...Up out of 2!!

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

The League: The Complete Season Four


Synopsis:
America’s favorite pastime – talking smack to your buddies and making their lives miserable – is elevated to hilarious new heights in the uproarious Season Four of The League. This season kicks off with the arrival of Kevin and Jenny’s baby…and the race to the Shiva Bowl is on! As Taco tangles with Chicago Bears great Jim McMahon and Andre’s tailgating plans go horribly awry, the rest of the guys contend with dirty trades, circumcision debates, breast-a-lyzers and blackmail. Make these outrageously funny Season Four episodes of The League your number-one draft pick!

MY REVIEW:
Well, it surely wasn't love at first sight... to be honest, almost the entire first disc I was wondering what I had gotten myself into and why I torture myself this way sometimes.  Well, as I always do, I watched the entire series, as agonizing as the first disc was, it did get better.  By the end my husband and I were both actually laughing at some of the stupid things they were saying and doing.  This show is definitely for the type of people who have a crude sense of humor, people like my husband!! I for one did not get into it until the second show on the second disc, then I started to find the actions a little funny but as I said this will not be a show for everyone.  There is a lot of sex related talk and actions and it is pretty vulgar more often than it's not.  There is reference to drugs, there is quite a bit of drinking and really not the type of show I would care to make time for.  It would definitely not be one of those shows I look forward to each week.  I had never heard of this show before, I don't watch much TV other than what I review and even if I did this would not be on my list of must make time for.  If you like crude humor, inappropriateness and just down right "dirty" talk, this show may be for you, otherwise I would advice you steer clear of it or you may be offended...on more than one occasion.

I give this show 2 out of 4 thumbs up!!

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

Disney's Super Buddies


Disney’s beloved and adorable ‘Buddies’ are back in a hilarious all-new movie for the whole family -- ‘SUPER BUDDIES’ debuts August 27, 2013, on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack and DVD.  An action-packed canine adventure, ‘Super Buddies’ stars the world’s most adorable talking puppies - Rosebud, B-Dawg, Budderball, Buddha and Mudbud, as caped crusaders em’barking’ on their biggest adventure ever.

An ordinary day at Fernfield Farms turns extraordinary when Budderball, Mudbud, B-Dawg, Buddha and Rosebud discover mysterious rings that grant them each a unique super power. Before you can say, “Buddies, assemble,” the pups unleash their amazing abilities and race to the rescue when a shape-shifting bully from outer space threatens the planet. But can they succeed in kicking major tail without revealing their new secret identities?

A must-own movie event packed with laughter, action and incredible new characters, ‘SUPER BUDDIES’ proves when you use your wits and work together, you don't need super powers to be a super hero!

MY REVIEW:
I must confess, it's been a long while since I've seen one of the "Buddies" movies.  After watching the fun these pups are still having I think we may need to go back in time and check out the other ones.  We really liked this movie.  What kid wouldn't love the combination of puppies, superheros and aliens from outer-space?  Mine sure did.  I think Rosebud's super fast speed was the favorite of my middle daughter.  She loves pink and of course Rosebud leaves a "jet stream", as we like to call it in my house, of pink.  This is a great movie, letting the kids see that sometimes your imagination can bring things to life.  Disney has always done great work and this one is sure to make your children happy as well.  We've watched it numerous times already and we will likely end up watching it many more times as well.  Each pup has it's own personality and it's own Super Buddy power which is what makes them all great in their own ways, just as individual as the kids watching them.  I think my favorite part is when the alien "pig" tries to go through the drive thru, that poor boy trying to take his order lol.  If you're looking for a nice movie for the kids to watch this would be a good one to get.

 I give this movie 8 out of 10 thumbs up!!!

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

~~GIVEAWAY~~ Thirty Scary Tales eBook


The stories in this book present a buffet of fear in its subtle flavours: suspense, apprehension, foreboding, disquiet. They don’t shock with extreme violence or gross out with masses of gore. However, they may induce terror, and some may leave you disturbed long after you’ve closed the book.

Fear is personal. The same story may constrict one person’s chest and set their heart racing, yet send only a mild tingle down another readers’ spine.

We all have certain personal fears, and if a story touches on one of those themes, the horror escalates. If you have a dread of drowning,  I Dived the Pandora will be the scariest story for you.
Dog lovers may find Black Karma cute, but if canines give you the creeps, you may read it and shudder. While most readers find The Bridge Chamber scary, it can be a source of unbearable terror if you’re claustrophobic.

The great thing about horror fiction is that it puts you in control of your fears. In the comfort of your armchair, you can release the adrenaline rush that comes from danger, enjoy its thrills yet know you’re safe.

You decide when, how, and how much you want to be frightened. You can choose to linger over passages that give you a pleasant thrill, read straight though sections that do nothing to you, and if a story gets too frightening for your taste, you can close the book and relax.

With a short story collection, you can skip some stories and savour others that give you fear in your preferred colour, flavour and strength.

My brand of horror is ‘quiet’ in the tradition of classic British spooky tales, atmospheric and creepy rather than gory and violent.

The stories in this book have been previously published in magazines, ezines, collections and anthologies, sometimes in different versions. They’re also collected in volumes 1-5 of the Six Scary Tales books.  The grammar and spelling are British.

**PLEASE KEEP IN MIND WHILE ANYONE IS WELCOME TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY THE AUTHOR SUGGESTS THIS EBOOK IS RATED PG-13 AND IS NOT SUITABLE FOR YOUNG READERS WITHOUT PARENTAL GUIDANCE**

~~GIVEAWAY~~ Knowing Vera



~~This giveaway is NOT being hosted by Silkki's Reviews and I am not affiliated with the author of this book but I will be having a review of it shortly~~


Knowing Vera, a thrilling romantic suspense and cross-cultural family drama, released September 6 on Amazon.

Excellent and exciting read! – Cate Beauman

The tension just ups and ups!  Well, done. – H. Elliston

Vera’s dating Zach, casually, not committed, when she finds out her long-departed father is the killer of Zach’s mother many years ago.

Meanwhile, Zach reevaluates his life after a tragic accident and realizes he's falling in love with Vera.

Can their timing be so wrong? Vera knows the relationship is doomed, but she cannot resist the tugging of her heart and Zach's panty-melting grin.

Caught in a web of family secrets and hidden agendas, Vera and Zach must depend on each other for survival. A dangerous killer is on the loose, and Vera must find the truth, wherever that leads, even if it’s shocking news for Zach.

From the Author:
Vera Custodio is possibly my most favorite character. I never planned on making her a heroine, but she grew on me. In Broken Build, she first appears as the sister of a dead man, and then as the flirt enticing Dave Jewell with her pancit malabon. From there, she grew to be Maryanne Torres’ best friend in Hidden Under Her Heart. She met Zach Spencer, a playboy triathlete, and succumbed to his charms, but under her terms. Since she was a side character, she had several bad traits she had to grow out of to become a true heroine. She was a flirt, had trouble keeping her panties on, and dropped boyfriends like used nail extensions. But she was also caring, loyal, and a darn good cook. When Zach Spencer suffers a crippling injury, I knew Vera would be the perfect woman for him. But first, she has to overcome the mystery in her past and open her heart enough to trust. And that’s the theme of Knowing Vera.

So, download Knowing Vera for 99c, kick up your heels and enter my awesome Giveaway, featuring the all NEW Improved Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, a paperback, and giftcard.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

AUTHOR LINKS
Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

BUY THE BOOK
Amazon (US) | Amazon (UK) | Amazon (CA) | Amazon (IN)

SCANDAL: THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON DVD

Experience every breathless, jaw-dropping moment as Olivia Pope and her team of “gladiators in suits” turn up the heat and raise the stakes in “Scandal: The Complete Second Season.”

For Olivia Pope and Associates, cleaning up other people’s messes takes a shattering personal toll.  Season Two blows the lid off Quinn’s identity, exposes Huck’s dark past, and uncovers Olivia’s darkest secret – something so shocking and enormous that it threatens the entire nation. From boardrooms to bedrooms, relive all 22 episodes of the explosive second season of “Scandal” including exclusive, never-before-seen bonus features with this riveting 5-disc set.

Bonus Features: A Closer Look: President Grant’s Assassination Attempt – Get an inside peek at how one of Season Two’s most pivotal scenes was shot (pun intended); Hanging with Huck – Spend the day with actor Guillermo Diaz and get to know the man behind the eclectic yet oddball character “Huck”; Extended Episode – Delve deeper into the drama with an episode featuring additional moments too revealing for broadcast television; Deleted Scenes – Discover more scandalous secrets through several never-before-seen moments from the hit series; Outtakes – Fans will laugh out loud at these funny, unseen moments from the set of “Scandal.”

MY REVIEW:
It would be easy to just say "I love this show" and leave it at that.  But there are so many reasons why I love it, the cast, the chemistry, the story line, the lies, the secrets, the scandals.... oh ya, this IS a great show.  From the very first episode my interest was peaked.  I had never heard of this show before but now that I've seen the complete second season I feel the need to step back in time and watch first season.  I cannot believe how much I got into this show, I watched it every day, at least one whole disc a day but there was one night I watched two (my husband was away with work and I was waiting up for him).  I liked so many things but there was this one thing I couldn't get over.... the facial expressions of Olivia Pope, they were a little too much!!  All and all this was a fantastic Season and I can't wait to see season three.  The very last scene of the show caught me off guard and left me wondering "how did that happen?"  I don't want to give it away for those of you who will end up going out and grabbing this, like I think everyone should do... who doesn't need a little scandalizing drama in their lives.  I know I'm always wondering who Olivia Pope is going to be the "Fixer" of next.  Makes you wonder if they really do exist?!  If you have done something terrible that people are going to be judging you for etc and this person swoops in from behind the scenes and fixes everything for you.  You have no accountability for anything because you just pick up the phone and someone comes to the rescue, making all your problems go away, how fantastic would that be!?  Ya, not really something I would want, or would want anyone around me to do, but you never know... maybe it does happen.  I know am definitely looking forward to more, I sure hope they give us more.

  I give this 2 out of 2 thumbs up!!

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

The Croods ~ Printables

Hey everyone, to celebrate the upcoming release of The Croods I received these printables to pass along to my readers.... enjoy with your family!!



~~GIVEAWAY~~ The Croods on BluRay with a Belt Plush

Croodaceous Creatures 

Available on Digital HD September 15 and Blu-ray & DVD October 1 

Throughout their adventure, the Croods encounter tons of unique croodaceous creatures. The beauty of these peculiar animals that they had never before amazed audiences across the world. Continue reading below to learn all of the background information on these wild animals, and get to know the Croods’ co-stars on a deeper level. 

Join the Croods on the journey of a lifetime in the epic comedy-adventure that "has the magical wonder of How To Train Your Dragon" - Jake Hamilton (Fox-TV). When their cave is destroyed, the Croods set out to explore a spectacular landscape filled with fantastic creatures, strange surprises…and a whole new world of adventure!


Mousephant 
The tiny blue mousephant is only 4 to 5 inches in length and is often preyed upon by other larger croodaceous creatures. For this reason, the mousephant uses it’s large ears to hear long distances and tiny trunk to make loud, intimidating trumpet noises.  This furry blue animal snacks on a wide array of plants and, as seen in the film, often travels in packs. 


Crocopup 
Thunk’s favorite animal pal, the crocopup, is a playful reptomammal. Crocopups use their large eyes, sharp teeth, and strong jaws to hunt for food. Although the crocopup is about 200 to 300 pounds with short powerful legs and a strong bite, they still have to be careful of their main predator, the bear owl. 

Macawnivore 
If you’re a cat person like Grug, the macawnivore would be the perfect pet for you! This 15-foot creature is a speedy hunter that has no known predators from the whole croodaceous era. The macawnivore’s colorful feather body and large saber teeth make it a beautiful sight to see in nature. 

Punch Monkey 
The punch monkey’s large fists are used for their favorite activity: fighting! Punch Monkeys use their tails as a third hand, and are willing to fight anyone who intrudes on their territory. But, if you offer them any sweet fruit such as a banana, you will be safe from their powerful punch. 

Piranhakeet
The piranhakeet is the most frightening creature in the croodaceous environment. Each night, the piranhakeets fly from their underground hiding place in a giant red swarm to find their next source of food. These vicious birds leave nothing behind but the skeleton. However, their fear of light makes them easy to defeat.

ENTER TO WIN!!