Giveaway: Backyard Camping with Magic Cabin. Win a $50 gift certificate
12:01 AM Posted by Centsible Mommy
We were recently sent a few items from Magic Cabin that enhanced my children’s backyard camp out experience. Here’s how we enjoyed them:
For starters, we pitched the cute kids' Camping Tent from Magic Cabin to set up “camp”. This was not only a great way to enhance my boys’ backyard “camping” experience and make it feel like an actual campsite, but it was fun for my boys to pretend, play and relax in this fun camping tent. This one touch tent sets up in seconds as it easily just pops up when opened, so setting up camp wasn’t difficult at all. 
After the tent was pitched, we decided to do a little bug and bird watching. So we sat quietly (very hard to do with 2 young children, but we tried our best) and looked and listened for our outdoor neighbors: feathered friends, winged insects, or other creepy crawlies. To call and attract the birds we used the Audubon Bird Call from Magic Cabin.
When we’d spot a feathered friend or insect, my boys took turns using the Optic Explorer from Magic Cabin to get a closer look. Of course, they used it to get a better look at everything: the trees, the leaves, birds, bugs, our dogs, rocks and dirt and of course each other. Ha!
Our backyard camp out was fun and restful; and the boys even learned a few things too.
More information about the featured items from Magic Cabin:
Camping Tent: This professional-looking tent morphs from folded to full-of-kids in a moment. Thanks to "one-touch" technology, you just lift it out of its carry bag, hold it up, shake it to snap it into shape, and let the pretend adventures begin! Included carry bag makes it a breeze to pack along to the beach, lake or campsite. Features include a waterproof poly oxford floor adds to its versatility, netting at the roof ensures good ventilation, and the durable, UV-treated, 30-SPF-coated polyester fabric adds extra protection from the sun's rays. For happy campers ages 3 and up.
Size: Approx. 48" x 48" x 36"
Audubon Bird Call: You can attract many birds with the Audubon Bird Call, a little birchwood and pewter device that chirps and twitters - imitating several birdcalls - when you twist it. Easy to tuck in a pocket or backpack, or carry around your neck on a string. Handcrafted in New England. For ages 5 and up.
Optic Explorer: Young explorers can carry this 2-in-1 telescope/microscope in their pockets or backpacks for up-close viewing of bugs, birds, rocks, leaves and other natural (or man-made) treasures.Perfect for school field trips, camping, hiking or backyard explorations. 12x microscope extends to become a 7x telescope. Contains an 18mm object lens.Colors will vary, Blue or Red we will choose for you. For ages 8 and up.
Marshmallow Tree: Whether they're roughing it in the woods or merely pretend-camping in the backyard, kids will love our 10-prong Marshmallow Tree. It's made from non-stick coated steel wire that's bent and turned to look like the branches of a tree, and has a rosewood-stained, tapered wood handle
Buy it: All the items featured in this review can be purchased directly from Magic Cabin.
Win it: We are giving away a $50 gift certificate to Magic Cabin to one Centsible Mommy reader to use toward Backyard Camping items or anything you choose from Magic Cabin.
Here’s how to enter:
Click over to Magic Cabin, browse the site, and then come back here and leave me a comment on what you’d buy with your $50 gift certificate. Be sure to leave an email address with your entry. Keep reading for additional ways to gain entries.
Additional entries:
"Like" Centsible Mommy on Facebook (1 entry)
Follow me on Twitter- (@CentsibleMom) ( 1 entry)
Post about this giveaway somewhere (facebook, twitter, blog, etc) with a link to this giveaway included and be sure to leave me a comment to where you've posted it! ( 1 entry for each post)
Follow me on Google Friend Connect (upper right hand corner) (1 entry)
Subscribe to ¢ent$ible Mommy by Email (1 entry)
Refer a friend. Get 1 entry for each friend who enters this giveaway and tells me you sent them! (1 entry each)
Don't forget to enter all my other giveaways still going on! Look on the right sidebar for the current list.
Contest ends at 11:59 pm CST on August 10th. Winner will be randomly selected using a random number generator at random.org. Winner will be notified in this post and by email. Prizes not claimed within 48 hours will be forfeited and an alternate winner will be drawn. Open to U.S. Residents 18+ only.
2010 Top Toys Guide: Part 1- K'nex Building Sets
1:46 PM Posted by Centsible Mommy
We were sent some of the newest toys from K’nex for our “expert testers” (ages 5 and 2) to try out. If you haven’t yet heard of K’nex, they are a popular brand of building toys for ages 2 through 9+. K’nex building toys allow children to let their imaginations soar as they play and build with K'nex Building sets. Here are just some of the newest toys from Spring/Summer Collection from K’nex:
The New K'nex Sesame Street Collection (ages 2+)
More information about each:
"Kick it Elmo" Building Set
Your child can build Sesame Street's coolest red monster, Elmo, gearing up to kick his soccer ball! This 13 piece set includes parts to build Elmo in his uniform and ready to hit the field with his soccer ball. "Play & Learn" activity sheet filled with collaborative and educational fun for parent and child is also included along with additional building ideas. When playtime is over store the parts in the handy canister for a quick and easy clean-up.
Your child can build Sesame Street's friendliest resident, Ernie, dressed in his bathing suit and ready to take a swim! This 14 piece set includes parts to build Ernie, complete with snorkel and flippers, on his way to the pool, lake or beach! "Play & Learn" activity sheet filled with collaborative and educational fun for parent and child is also included along with additional building ideas. When playtime is over store the parts in the handy canister for a quick and easy clean-up.
Cookie Monster Basketball Building Set
Your child can build one of Sesame Street's most lovable - and hungriest - characters, Cookie Monster, getting some exercise by hitting the basketball court! This 15 piece set includes parts to build Cookie Monster dressed in his uniform, including his yellow visor, with basketball in hand. "Play & Learn" activity sheet filled with collaborative and educational fun for parent and child is also included along with additional building ideas. When playtime is over store the parts in the handy canister for a quick and easy clean-up.Our thoughts on the Sesame Street building sets: The Sesame Street building sets are perfect for my 2 year old son. Not only are the Sesame Street Characters some of his favorites, but at his age he is too young for most other building sets. The K'nex Sesame Street building sets allow him to build his favorite characters, as they have fewer and bigger pieces than the K’nex sets for older children. And well it's Elmo, Ernie and Cookie Monster, which was an added plus for my little Sesame Street fan. He has a blast building and playing with his favorite Sesame Street friends.
Benefits of K'nex Sesame Street Building Sets:
Physical Development: Building with Kid K'nex supports the development of hand-eye coordination
Social Emotional Development-Playing with Kid K'nex either alone or with friends encourages imaginative play
Language Development: Talking about K'nex creations can enhance language skills
Cognitive Skills-Sorting and making Patterns with K'nex encourages thinking and problem-solving skills
There are also 4 new toys in the Construction Crew Series, which includes an excavator, front loader, steam roller, and backhoe. These are great for kids who love construction vehicles. Each set comes with about 120 pieces, accessories, and a driver. Combine all 4 sets to make a huge construction site! These retail for $11.99 each, and are recommended for ages 5 and up.
More information about each:
Collect & Build the Excavator, #1 of 4 in the Construction Crew Series! This set comes with 120 K'NEX parts, including bricks, rods and connectors to build a construction vehicle with a pivoting cab and working arm. There is also a K'NEXman to operate the vehicle, and construction accessories to play with! You can build on the brick plate that is included in the set, then combine all four sets and the brick plates become your own actual construction site! Recommended for builders ages 5+.
Collect & Build the Front Loader, #2 of 4 in the Construction Crew Series! This set comes with 120 K'NEX parts, including bricks, rods and connectors to build a construction vehicle with working bucket. There is also a K'NEXman to operate the vehicle, and construction accessories to play with! You can build on the brick plate that is included in the set, then combine all four sets and the brick plates become your own actual construction site! Recommended for builders ages 5+.
Collect & Build the Steam Roller, #3 of 4 in the Construction Crew Series! This set comes with 121 K'NEX parts, including bricks, rods and connectors to build a working construction vehicle with a drum that rotates when pushed. There is also two K'NEXmen to operate the vehicle and work alongside, and construction accessories to play with! You can build on the brick plate that is included in the set, then combine all four sets and the brick plates become your own actual construction site! Recommended for builders ages 5+.
Collect & Build the Backhoe, #4 of 4 in the Construction Crew Series! This set comes with 127 K'NEX parts, including bricks, rods and connectors to build a construction vehicle with a working digger in the back and bucket in the front. There is also a K'NEXman to operate the vehicle, and construction accessories to play with! You can build on the brick plate that is included in the set, then combine all four sets and the brick plates become your own actual construction site! Recommended for builders ages 5+.
Our thoughts on the Construction Crews Series:
This set is an amazing set for kids who love construction vehicles. Not only can you have fun building these sets, but children can play with the vehicles once they are built because they have some working parts! My 5 year old son loved this set and appreciated the fact they could be combined to make a "work site".
Fire Rescue 10 Model Set
Build 10 different models, including a cool fire engine, and bring them to life with the spring motor! Packed with 127 parts plus step-by-step instructions and building ideas for 10 unique models. The convenient storage box is a great place to store your parts and makes it easy for you to take the fun with you. For ages 5+.
Our thoughts on The Fire Rescue 10 Model Set:
This set is a fun building set that comes with the directions to build 10 amazing "working" models. The possibilities are endless with this set! My boys love firetrucks so they have lots of fun playing with this set while they allow their imaginations to run wild.
Overall, we thought ALL the K'nex products sent to us to try out were really fun! We liked them so much in fact that we've included them in our 2010 Top Toys Guide. (more toys will be featured soon)
For more information or to purchase the featured sets, or to see other K'nex products visit the K'nex website.
Buy it: You can buy directly from the official K'nex online shop or purchase K'nex products at most retailers nationwide.
We were provided with the above mentioned toys for review purposes only. We received no monetary compensation for this post. All the opinions and ideas expressed are our own. Note: Some excerpts taken from K'nex website.
{Closed} Giveaway: "Hello Handsome" Mangroomer Giveaway
10:02 AM Posted by Centsible Mommy
This giveaway is now closed. The 2 winners randomly drawn are #15-Benita and #95-faithfullyfrugal. Congratulations!!
Helloooo Handsome!
Introducing the Mangroomer Product Line. Mangroomer? “What’s that?” you ask. Mangroomer products are just what they sound like…products for man grooming.
Features:
• 1.5 inch (width) blade with Cutting Edge Design enables extremely close and smooth results
• 135 degree opening (unique patent pending design for maneuverability) enables to reach all the areas of your back
• Extendable handle (extends & locks)
How does the DIY Groomer work? Watch this entertaining video to find out!
Shaving:
How To Shave Your Back Yourself
Features:
• Combined Trimmer/foil blade cuts both long and short hair effortlessly
• Use wet or Dry and cleans easily
• Quick charging
• Adjustable settings-use one of 5 predetermined length settings
Another great item for the well-groomed man: The Essential Nose and Ear Hair Trimmer
Features:
- Innovative design enables close results without causing ingrown hairs
- Use wet or dry
Stores discreetly with low profile design
Non slip grip
Okay, so now that we've covered the topics that are sometimes better left unsaid, but necessary, just think of the money you’ll save on those costly and embarrassing visits to the salon for back waxing and more. Now you’ll be afford to take your lady for a night out on the town with your newly groomed sexy self.
Mangroomer products are going to keep you looking your best and us ladies love a well groomed man!
Buy it: Mangroomer products are available at Wal Mart, Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, Walgreens Drugstore.com, and directly from the Mangroomer website.
Win it: Gentlemen, want to win a DIY Backgroomer so you can look your best? Ladies want to keep your man looking good? Or, maybe you’re just tired of shaving his back, either way, win one. We’re giving away Professional Do-It-Yourself Electric Back Hair Shavers to two lucky Centsible Mommy readers courtesy of Mangroomer. (ARV $50)
Here’s how to enter:
Click over to the Mangroomer.com, check out their products and then come back here and leave a comment telling me your favorite product and who would benefit most from it. Don’t be embarrassed. I’m not one to judge. My husband benefits from the use of these products too. Oops! Did I just call my hubby out? Sorry, darlin! Be sure to leave an email address with your entry so I can contact you should you win. Keep reading for additional ways to gain entries.
Additional entries:
"Like" Centsible Mommy on Facebook (1 entry)
Follow me on Twitter- (@CentsibleMom) ( 1 entry)
Post about this giveaway somewhere (facebook, twitter, blog, etc) with a link to this giveaway included and be sure to leave me a comment to where you've posted it! ( 1 entry for each post)
Follow me on Google Friend Connect (upper right hand corner) (1 entry)
Subscribe to ¢ent$ible Mommy by Email (1 entry)
Don't forget to enter all my other giveaways still going on! Look on the right sidebar for the current list.
Contest ends at 11:59 pm CST on July 28th. Winner will be randomly selected using a random number generator at random.org. Winner will be notified in this post and by email. Prizes not claimed within 48 hours will be forfeited and an alternate winner will be drawn. Open to U.S. Residents 18+ only.
{Closed} Giveaway: $25 Gift Certificate to ABCNeckties.com
5:18 PM Posted by Centsible Mommy
This giveaway is now closed. The winner randomly drawan is #18-chromiumman.
Congratulations, chromiumman!
As those of you know who have shopped for a tie, a good quality, stylish tie can cost around $40, sometimes more. The selection at the store is not always great either. My husband and I were so thrilled to find ABC Neckties’ website because their ties are affordable around $25 or less, and the assortment of styles and color choices is amazing.
Not only do they have ties in an array of colors and patterns, you can also find ties to match your man’s personality. ABC Neckties carries novelty ties like sports ties for sports enthusiasts, animal print ties and wildlife ties for animal lovers, fine arts ties for art aficionados, patriotic ties, occupational ties, and much more. And it’s easy to shop by color, style, and more as the ties are categorized making it easier to find exactly what you are looking for. Want a tie that is blue? Just click on the category for blue ties or if you want a silk tie, go to the category for silk ties, and so on.
My husband is a sports fanatic, so naturallu his first tie of choice from ABC Neckties was the Chicago Bears Striped Necktie. Now he can look good and show his personality and team spirit while at work. They have lots of teams and sports ties to choose from.For great prices and a great selection of ties, be sure to check out ABC Neckties.
Buy it: Shop ABCNeckties.com. Right now, it's their Sitewide Summer Sale and you can get 15% off their already low prices.
Win it: Gentleman, do you want add a great tie to your wardrobe, or ladies do you want to spruce up your man’s wardrobe? We are giving away a $25 gift certificate to ABC Neckties so you can get a tie of choice courtesy of ABC Neckties.
Here’s how to enter:
Click over to ABCNeckties.com and check out their selection, and then come back here and leave me a comment telling me which tie you or the recipient would like. Be sure to leave your email address with your comment, so I can contact you should you win. Keep reading for ways to gain additional entries.
Additional entries:
"Like" Centsible Mommy on Facebook (1 entry)
"Like" ABC Neckties on Facebook (1 entry)
Follow me on Twitter- (@CentsibleMom) ( 1 entry)
Follow ABC Neckties on Twitter (@ABCNeckties) (1 entry)
Post about this giveaway somewhere (facebook, twitter, blog, etc) with a link to this giveaway included and be sure to leave me a comment to where you've posted it! ( 1 entry for each post)
Follow me on Google Friend Connect (upper right hand corner) (1 entry)
Contest ends at 11:59 pm CST on July 24th. Winner will be randomly selected using a random number generator at random.org. Winner will be notified in this post and by email. Prizes not claimed within 48 hours will be forfeited and an alternate winner will be drawn. Open to U.S. and Canadian Residents 18+ only.
I was sent a the Chicago Bears Striped Necktie for review purposes only. The opinions and content posted here are my own based on use of the product. I received no monetary compensation for my review.
{Closed} Giveaway: Quarter Moon Nightlight from Kinderglo
6:17 PM Posted by Centsible Mommy
This giveaway is now closed. The 3 winners randomly drawn are # 29-jsc123, #22-Smarti, #40-Debbie. Congratulations!
Introducing Quarter Moon, the adorable little “Man in the Moon” nightlight from KinderGlo.com. This cute little moon not only lets off a soothing color show to help your children ease their fear of the dark and to drift off to sleep, but it never gets hot, and is portable. Kids will love carrying this cute moon by its handle for their nightly treks to the potty and more.
I love his rosy little cheeks!
What a "glowing" smile when lit up. Ha!
What a "glowing" smile when lit up. Ha!
With 3 color choices (red, blue, and green) or a additional choice of a multi-color sequence as easy as a push of a button, your children can choose the color(s) that comforts them most. It will light up for 30 minutes or can be set to stay on all night long. And because it is made never to get hot and is portable, your children can keep it very near. Just be sure to place it back on its base to recharge every now and again.
The Quarter Moon is the latest addition to an already adorable lineup of nightlights from KinderGlo.com. I reviewed and hosted a giveaway of KinderGlo’s Brontosaurus, T-Rex, and Owl nightlights here on Centsible Mommy in the past. You can read the review here.
The Quarter Moon like the other nightlights by KinderGlo work as toys as well as comforting nighttime companions, as they are made with kids in mind, and should withstand the play by children. I’m happy to say that the T-Rex and Brontosaurus lights we were sent in November of last year are still intact and used nightly.
Your child can drift off to sleep by the light of the moon with this adorably unique Quarter Moon Nightlight from Kinderglo.com.
Buy it: You can purchase Quarter Moon or the other KinderGlo nightlights here
Win it: Would you like to win an incredibly cute Quarter Moon for your child? We are giving away Quarter Moons to three lucky Centsible Mommy Readers courtesy of Blue Moon Lites.
Here's how to enter:
"Like" KinderGlo on Facebook and post a comment on their wall that Centsible Mommy sent you, or alternately you can Follow KinderGlo on Twitter (@KinderGlo). When you've completed either of these entries, please come back here and leave me a comment that you are now following KinderGlo. Be sure to leave an email address with your comment, so I can contact you should you win. That's it! Keep reading for ways to gain additional entries. Note: If you do not have twitter or facebook, leave me a comment as an entry.
Additional entries:
"Like" Centsible Mommy on Facebook (1 entry)
Follow me on Twitter- (@CentsibleMom) ( 1 entry)
Post about this giveaway somewhere (facebook, twitter, blog, etc) with a link to this giveaway included and be sure to leave me a comment to where you've posted it! ( 1 entry for each post)
Follow me on Google Friend Connect (upper right hand corner) (1 entry)
Contest ends at 11:59 pm CST on July 21st. Winner will be randomly selected using a random number generator at random.org. Winner will be notified in this post and by email. Prizes not claimed within 48 hours will be forfeited and an alternate winner will be drawn. Open to U.S. Residents 18+ only.
Blue Moon Lites, Inc. sent me one Quarter Moon for review purposes and provided 3 for giveaway. The opinions and content posted here are my own based on use of the product. I received no monetary compensation for my review.
{Closed} Giveaway: Busted Tees...because sometimes we just need a good laugh.
1:21 PM Posted by Centsible Mommy
This giveaway is now closed. The winner randomly drawn is #3, Dee! Congratulations, Dee!
Need a good laugh? Then you’ll definitely want to check out BustedTees.com. Busted Tees carries a very humorous lineup of t-shirts, hoodies, posters, and other fun accessories for both children and adults.
About Busted Tees: Busted Tees opened in March, 2004 and is entirely run by the guys from CollegeHumor.com. “We decided to start making T-shirts because we want people to have fun, laugh, look good, feel comfortable, get good jobs, get sweaty dancing, and go home with someone who also did those things.” Just from that description alone, I think you can get a pretty good idea of what's in store for you while browsing Busted Tees. Get ready to laugh!
I chuckled quite a bit while browsing the site, and I’m pretty sure you’re going to laugh out loud too. Just check out some of the kids t-shirts and you'll see what I mean.
With a great selection for both boys and girls, you’re definitely going to find something that your little guy or gal can look good in while amusing others. And if your kids are like mine, and love entertaining others and being the center of attention, then Busted Tees has the shirts just for them.
And with most children’s tees priced at $14 or less and many just for $10 as part of the Mega sale, you can afford to outfit your child in humor everyday of the week. At that price Busted Tees won’t “bust” the bank.
I love the spin on the popular Hippo kids’ game and chose the Hungry Hippo Tee for my 5 year old; and for my little guy that loves trains the I choo choo choose you tee was a must.
Buy it: Looking for a great deal? Right now Centsible Mommy readers will receive 15% off any order placed on BustedTees.com. Just use the promo code "CENTSIBLE" at checkout.
Win It:
We’re giving away a kids tee of choice to one lucky Centsible Mommy reader courtesy of Busted Tees
Here’s how to enter:
Click over to Busted Tees. Check out their selection and then come back here and leave me a comment on what tee or other product made you laugh. Be sure to leave an email address so I can contact you should you win. That's it. Keep reading for ways to gain additional entries.
Additional Entries: Above Entry must be completed first. (Please leave a separate comment for each entry)
"Like" Centsible Mommy on Facebook (1 entry)
"Like" Busted Tees on Facebook. Leave a comment on their wall that Centsible Mommy sent you (1 entry)
Follow me on Twitter- (CentsibleMom) ( 1 entry)
Post about this giveaway somewhere (facebook, twitter, blog, etc) with a link to this giveaway included and be sure to leave me a comment to where you've posted it! ( 1 entry for each post)
Follow me on Google Friend Connect (upper right hand corner) (1 entry)
Contest ends at 11:59pm CST on July 21st. Winner will be randomly selected using a random number generator at random.org. Winner will be notified in this post and by email. Prizes not claimed within 48 hours will be forfeited and an alternate winner will be drawn. Open to U.S. Residents 18+ only.
Busted Tees sent me 2 free product samples for review purposes. The opinions and content posted here are my own other than excerpts taken from a their site as noted. I received no monetary compensation for my review.
{Closed}Giveaway: Summer Fun with Popsicle
10:06 AM Posted by Centsible Mommy
This giveaway has ended. The 5 lucky winners randomly selected are #94-amyd, #36-tomgibson7, #115-beejax, #52-missybeez, and #80-Brenda. Congratulations!
As if the Popsicle lineup wasn't fun and delicious enough (you can see all the varieties here), they have come out with a new fun and tasty variety this summer-Jolly Rancher Popsicles . Not only do they taste refreshingly fruity, but they taste like Jolly Ranchers. Each pop is a delicious blend of four bold and fruity flavors: Blue Raspberry, Cherry, Grape and Sour Apple all in one pop. If you love Jolly Ranchers, you'll definitely love these pops. I love the way the sour apple flavor blends with the sweetness of the Blue Raspberry, Cherry and Grape to give it a really bold taste.At 45 calories, each pop is made with 10% fruit juice, is fat free, and provides 10% of the daily value for vitamin C per serving.
Popsicles make the perfect summer treat. Family Vacations also come to mind when I think of summer. Even if its just a day trip, nothing days summer like packing up the family and visiting fun and exciting places. And because Popsicle knows how hard it is to plan a family vacation, they would like to plan one for you. This summer, Popsicle is hosting the "Anything’s Possible" Popsicle sweepstakes and giving away three spectacular, pre-planned family vacations: a dolphin dive in Florida, Space Camp in Alabama and a dinosaur dig in Wyoming. To enter for a chance to win the grand prize trips, parents and kids can go to Popsicle.com/possibilities and enter the riddle answer from their Popsicle stick, now through September 30, 2010.
There's even a daily prize. Each day Popsicle is giving away the National Geographic Kids "Big Book of Fun." This book is jammed packed with fun activities like puzzles, riddles, games and much more. The National Geographic Kids "Big Book of Fun" is a great way to cure summer time bouts of boredom,occupy rainy days or to keep the kids busy on long car rides. You can download a mini-version of the book here or purchase a copy here. For more fun and other kids' boredom busters from Popsicle, be sure to also check the Slow the Melt Game Zone featuring fun games like Galactic Match, Penguin Crossing, Sea-the-Difference and Big Dig Pinball.
You can also participate in Popsicle's Stick Joke Contest. From June 14 through August 15, 2010. Participate in the Popsicle® Stick Joke contest by submitting a kid-friendly joke to the Popsicle® Twitter page for a chance to have your joke included on a Popsicle® stick or on Popsicle.com. The top 5 jokes will be featured on Popsicle.com. One lucky winner will have his or her joke featured on a limited edition batch of actual Popsicle® sticks, which will be distributed in the US in 2011. For more information on the Popsicle® Stick Joke contest, visit here.
Giveaway: We are giving away the Big Book of Fun and one Popsicle Product coupon redeemable for a free Popsicle product to 5 lucky Centsible Mommy readers courtesy of Popsicle.
Here's how to enter: Leave me a comment about your favorite Popsicle product. That's it! Keep reading for ways to gain additional entries.
Additional entries: (Entry 1 must be completed first. Please leave a separate comment for each ):
"Like" Centsible Mommy on Facebook (1 entry)
"Tweet" with me on Twitter- CentsibleMom ( 1 entry)
Post about this giveaway somewhere (facebook, twitter, blog, etc) with a link to this giveaway included and be sure to leave me a comment to where you've posted it! ( 1 entry)
Follow me on Google Friend Connect (upper right hand corner) (1 entry)
Post about this giveaway somewhere (facebook, twitter, blog, etc) with a link to this giveaway included and be sure to leave me a comment to where you've posted it! ( 1 entry)
Giveaway Rules: Open to US residents 18+ only. This giveaway ends on July 13 at 11:59 pm CT. One winner will be randomly drawn using the random number generator at random.org. The winner will be announced in this post and sent an email. In the event the winner does not reply within 48 hours from the time notified, an alternate winner will be drawn.
I was sent product coupons and Big Book of Fun for review purposes only. I received no monetary compensation for this post.
Additional entries: (Entry 1 must be completed first. Please leave a separate comment for each ):
"Like" Centsible Mommy on Facebook (1 entry)
"Tweet" with me on Twitter- CentsibleMom ( 1 entry)
Post about this giveaway somewhere (facebook, twitter, blog, etc) with a link to this giveaway included and be sure to leave me a comment to where you've posted it! ( 1 entry)
Follow me on Google Friend Connect (upper right hand corner) (1 entry)
Post about this giveaway somewhere (facebook, twitter, blog, etc) with a link to this giveaway included and be sure to leave me a comment to where you've posted it! ( 1 entry)
Giveaway Rules: Open to US residents 18+ only. This giveaway ends on July 13 at 11:59 pm CT. One winner will be randomly drawn using the random number generator at random.org. The winner will be announced in this post and sent an email. In the event the winner does not reply within 48 hours from the time notified, an alternate winner will be drawn.
I was sent product coupons and Big Book of Fun for review purposes only. I received no monetary compensation for this post.
Featured Product: Cooking with Kids- Handstand Kids Italian Cookbook Kit
9:18 AM Posted by Centsible Mommy
If your little ones are like mine, than no sooner than you turn on the stove, they’re not far behind asking to help in the kitchen. My boys (the little aspiring chefs) love helping in the kitchen and learning to cook, so I was thrilled when given the opportunity to review the Handstand Kids Italian Cookbook Kit.
Not only does the Handstand Kids Italian Cookbook feature delicious Italian recipes formatted in a way children can understand, but it also introduces them to the foods and language of a different culture. The Italian Cookbook is just one in the series of international cookbooks offered by Handstand Kids Cookbook Company and author, Yvette Garfield; there is also a Mexican Cookbook which comes in a tortilla bag with a child-sized oven mitt; and the Chinese Cookbook is packaged in a take-out box with a set of chopsticks.
The Italian Cookbook Kit comes appropriately packaged in a pizza box. It also comes with a cute children’s sized (adjustable) chef’s hat. The recipes inside are not only delicious, but all the ingredients and utensils used are translated into Italian and are used in the recipes so that children can learn the language as they cook. The pages are colorfully illustrated and the graphics are very cute.
The recipes are rated by difficulty with one garlic clove being the easiest and so on. Since my children are young, ages 5 and 2, the rating system shows exactly how much help they will need. The delicious recipes featured are those that kids will love, and some of the traditional childrens' favorites can be made with an Italian twist with the "Italianize my" section. For example when you “Italianize” sandwiches they become panini, popcorn becomes Italian popcorn, and many more. There are breads, soups, salads, main entrees and of course delicious desserts. There are some both nutritious and delicious choices as well.
Who are the Handstand Kids?
The Handstand Kids motto is "Traveling the world, one recipe at a time.”
“The five Handstand Kids are featured throughout the series: kid chefs can follow along as Felix, Izzy, Ari, Gabby and Marvin learn about the recipes, culture and language of a new country. The Handstand Kids offer helpful hints about cooking for special diets and finding ways to use cooking skills to Stir It Up and support the community.”
Click here to find ways your children can Stir It Up and help their community with their cooking skills.
“The Handstand Kids are a diverse bunch with varied interests so kids can easily relate to the characters. Felix is a vegetarian, Izzy is a picky eater and loves to cook for his diabetic sister, Ari uses her cooking skills to volunteer at kid's charities, Gabby is bilingual, speaking both Spanish and English, and Marvin is an aspiring chef.”
Visit the Online Recipe Box to browse free recipes similar to those found in the Handstand Kids Cookbook Series.
Buy it: Visit Handstand Kids shop to buy the Italian Cookbook Kit or any of their other kits. These kits are so much fun; and are a great way to introduce kids to international cuisine and cultures. You can also purchase children's aprons and other accessories to enhance your little chef’s cooking experience
How we used the cookbook & our thoughts on the Handstand Kids Products:
My 5 year old wanted to cook lunch for his Daddy & Papa for Father’s Day, so we choose Mamma Mia Minestrone Soup, Foot-Long Garlic Bread, and Bella Biscotti Cookies for our menu for Daddy's & Papa's Italian luncheon at our "Ristorante." And because the recipes were easy to prepare, my son only needed minimal help. My 2 year old also pitched in making our Italian cuisine. Both my boys had a blast cooking for their Daddy and the food turned out delicious! I love this product because it opened up the dialogue about the differences in people, different cultures, and embracing other cultures. Overall, this is a great children's cookbook series. And any activity that my children and I get to spend doing together gets an thumbs up from me!
The opinions and ideas are expressed are my own honest opinions based on the product I reviewed. I was sent a Italian Cookbook Kit for review purposes only. I received no monetary compensation for this post.
Featured Site: The Adventures of Zylie the Bear
10:30 AM Posted by Centsible Mommy
There’s something about teddy bears that have made both children and adults so fond of them for so long. When they’ve been given a charming personality, stylish clothing, and jointed arms and legs to make them moveable like Zylie and Shen from The Adventures of Zylie the Bear, the fondness and fascination for these two teddies can only grow.
Meet, Zylie the Bear, a traveling trendsetter set out to travel the world to make new friends and learn about the cultures everywhere she goes. Zylie, dressed in her adorable skinny jeans, flounce top and cream-colored swing jacket and carrying her stylish orange bag with passport, diary, and map in hand, begins her adventure in New York with her brother, Theo, and then suddenly finds herself in China where she meets the equally fashionable, Shen.
Shen, a panda decked out in his leather jacket, green Tee and jeans, and carrying a backpack with drumsticks and all-important passport, is also ready to set out to meet new friends and learn new cultures. Together, Zylie, and her new friend, Shen, along with Theo in tow, explore China.
The books, The Adventures Zylie the Bear, New York and The Adventures of Zylie the Bear, China, are just the start in the series with more adventures to come. The rest of Zylie's adventures will be decided by you- their customers and readers, so they don't know yet where she will be going next. These storybooks are based on Zylie's travels with each adventure focusing on a different country, helping children to learn about each country's culture and history, language, and more.
Some items from Zylie's Shop:
Zylie the Bear Kit
Begin your adventures with Zylie! Her kit comes with an 18" plush Zylie bear, in her signature skinny jeans, flounce top and beautifully-detailed cream-colored swing jacket. She’s carrying a cool orange bag that comes complete with her diary, map and all-important passport. Get to know Zylie™, her brother Theo and their wacky adventures by reading her first book: The Adventures of Zylie the Bear, New York™!
- Includes the first book in The Adventures series
- Use the passport number on the back to log into Zylie's website
- Additional outfits for Zylie and her friends are available separately
- Books can also be purchased separately
Meet Shen, Zylie's panda friend from China! His kit comes with an 18" plush Shen panda, in his green t-shirt, cool leather jacket and blue jeans. He also has his backpack, filled with his passport and, most importantly, his drumsticks. Find out how Zylie™ and Theo meet Shen and follow their travels in China with the second book in Zylie's adventure series, The Adventures of Zylie the Bear, China™.
- Includes the second book in The Adventures series
- Use the passport number on the back to log into Zylie's website
- Additional outfits for Shen are available separately
- Books can also be purchased separately
My thoughts on Zylie the Bear and Shen
You have seen Zylie and Shen for yourselves and know how adorable they are, so who cares what I think, right? But I will still say, not only are Zylie and Shen adorable and fun to play with, but they serve as a great tool in helping children learn about cultures different from their own, making them a great teaching tool. By the way, the kids I gave Zylie and Shen to have yet to put them down! They love them.
I was sent a Zylie the Bear and Shen the Panda Kit to review. The opinions expressed are my own. I received no compensation for this post.
Featured Product: Calling all Future Soccer Stars…Soccer Trainer from International Playthings
11:52 AM Posted by Centsible Mommy
With all the past few weeks’ buzz about The World Cup that began very recently, it seems everywhere you look it’s all about soccer lately. In keeping with this theme, and because my sons have also caught soccer fever and now want to be little soccer stars, I was very excited when I was asked to feature and review the soccer trainer from International Playthings. It’s just what they needed to practice their soccer skills.
Not only does the soccer trainer serve as a fun tool to help your kids learn and perfect their kicks and soccer skills, but it is a great way to keep your kids off the couch this summer... keeping them active while they are having tons of fun practicing a sport. If you have a budding soccer star in your midst, then the soccer trainer from International Playthings might just be the toy you are looking for.
The soccer set includes an easy to inflate 8 inch soccer ball that is attached to its base, which can be weighted down with either sand or water. The ball is attached to the base and rebounds back when it’s kicked, so your soccer star can practice goal keeping or shooting it continually at the goal (not included). It can be also be played with a friend for added fun by simply kicking it back and forth to one another or by taking turns to rebound the ball.
My boys (5 and 2) both really enjoyed playing with the soccer trainer and think its lots of fun, but they especially like the fact that they do not have to continually chase down the ball. Since they are so young and have not yet perfected their ball control skills, they sometimes spend more time chasing down the ball then actually kicking it.
Soccer Set Includes:
8 inch inflatable soccer ball
Attached Base
Air pump
Recommended for ages 3+. Note: My 2 year old is able to kick and rebound the ball and enjoy the fun, but I had to watch him carefully as at times the cord would wind up around his feet, which presented the possibility of falling, so the recommended age of 3+ seems accurate.
Brand:
Where to buy: International Playthings. International Playthings carries an assortment of toys for all ages. Browse by age, category, brand, or gender to find the toy you're looking for.
The opinions presented are my own. I was sent a soccer trainer for review and keep. I did receive any compensation for my opinions.
