Dad of Divas' Reviews: December 2011

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

DVD Review - Glee - The Concert

About the DVD
Nominated for a Golden Globe® for Best Television Comedy, audiences everywhere can see TV’s hottest musical sensation as a full length feature film when GLEE: THE CONCERT MOVIE comes to Blu-ray and DVD from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment on December 20th. Enjoy the breath-taking concert experience like never before with new exciting never-before-seen and extended performances, clips of fans’ favorite characters, exclusive extras and more, all from the comfort of your living room.

Featuring everyone’s favorite Glee stars including Lea Michele, Jane Lynch, Cory Monteith, Chris Colfer, Dianna Agron, Darren Criss, Mark Salling, Naya Rivera, Heather Morris and the rest of the Glee cast. GLEE: THE CONCERT MOVIE features fan favorite hits recorded live from the sold-out nationwide concert.

My Take on the DVD
While I did not see this in the movie theater, I did watch this last night and had a blast tapping my feet and experiences the music, sights and sounds of everything GLEE. I have to be honest and say that I do not watch every episode of GLEE every week, but the ones that I have watched have been great and are filled with scenarios that many young adults have to experience and realize as they become adults. That being said this concert event was a great one and you will find many of your favorite GLEE songs within it. I was happy to see that there were so many songs within the movie as I was not expecting as many as were presented. All-in-all, if you enjoy GLEE or if you simply enjoy good music and an entertaining film, watch this, as it will put a smile on your face and music into your heart!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Daddy, Come and Get Me

About the Book
Daddy, Come and Get Me: a dad’s adventure through a Guatemalan adoption tells two stories about one girl. Author Gil Michelini tells the story of how he led his family through the process of adopting a daughter from Guatemala. Using the official Guatemalan adoption documents and assistance by those familiar with the Guatemalan culture, Michelini includes a plausible story of his daughter’s life in Guatemala and how her birthmother came to the decision to relinquish her for adoption. This story is included to illustrate and honor the sacrifice one woman endured for the sake of her daughter.

The book title comes from a dream Michelini had at the beginning of the process where he heard a girl calling from a mountain top, “Daddy, come and get me.”

This is not a how-to book. It is a story of a man facing fears to accomplish a dream and answer a calling. It is a story to give insight to how much a mother would sacrifice for her child. It is a story to encourage others to consider opening their lives to an orphan.

Daddy, Come and Get Me is available as a softcover book and in the Kindle format from Amazon as well as the Nook format from Barnes and Noble and Books-A-Million. For additional information on Daddy, Come & Get Me, contact Gil Michelini or visit www.DaddyComeAndGetMe.com.

My Take on the Book
What I loved about this book was the fact that this comes from the fathers point of view. I have read and reviewed  other adoption stories that were shared from the mother-to-be's perspective but this is the first from a father-to-be. The book was refreshing and you can tell that it was written from the heart. I have to say that the story itself was amazing and you just feel for the whole family when you see everything that they went through in their journey.

The book itself was inspiring and I can see many people, and especially those considering adoption to read this with wide eyes and appreciation as it does open your eyes and mind to everything that is possible in the adoption process.

On top of all of this, this is a great example of fatherhood for all to emulate!

Be aware that this book does share a large amount of emotional ups and downs and you are taken along for the ride, but that being said it is a ride you will not want to miss!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Smithsonian Mission Museum: Case of the Missing Mummy - A Very Fun Game!

About the Game
Number of Players: 2
Ages: 7+
Age Category: Family

A Mummy is on the loose in the museum! Your mission is to work together to reveal the spell that will stop the mummy from escaping into the city. As a team, you’ll decode secret messages, answer questions and complete puzzles to lead you to the spell that returns the mummy back to its case.

Discovery Bay Games is proud to partner with Smithsonian Institute, America’s national educational facility with 19 museums, 9 research centers and over 140 affiliate museums around the world.

My Take on the Game
My family loves mysteries and this game mixes the idea of mystery with history, a great combination if you ask me! My wife and I as well as my oldest daughter played this and it led to a fun night of laughs and intrigue. The game itself was easy enough to understand and to play and I can tell that this will be one that we will be coming back to in the near future as it provided us with some great family fun for game night. I enjoyed some of the puzzles that you had to solve to work your way through the game and I know that you and your family will too! I highly recommend this game to all!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Smithsonian Jigsaw Puzzle: An American Puzzle

About the Puzzle
Ages: 7+
Age Category: Family
Gather around with friends and family to re-create this Smithsonian masterpiece, one jigsaw piece at a time!

Discovery Bay Games is proud to partner with Smithsonian Institute, America’s national educational facility with 19 museums, 9 research centers and over 140 affiliate museums around the world.



My Take on the Puzzle
This was a great puzzle that challenges you visually and mentally. With the intricate melting colors and designs on the puzzle itself, know that this is not one that will be easy to put together. This puzzle will take you time and patience, but it is worth it. The imagery on the puzzle itself was stunning and the pieces of the puzzle were well crafted and interlocked well. If you are a person who loves putting puzzles together, you will love to have this one in your collection too!


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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The Name Chase® Historical Figures Edition

About the Game
Number of Players: 4
Ages: 12+
Age Category: Adult

Name Chase is a team trivia game that combines clues, facts, and fun with some of history’s most pivotal people. Presidents, authors, actors and outlaws are just some of the colorful characters and notable figures included.

Features:

  • Informative and fun
  • Features some of history’s most notable figures
  • Great gift idea for the history buff in your life


My Take on the Game
This was a fun game that taught you so much about History! The game itself is for older children and adults, thus I cannot completely give you a sense on the ability of a younger child to grasp the concepts as it was my wife and I who tried out the game itself. J-Mom and I found the game to be a ton of fun, but it is challenging none-the-less. You may even find that the game may stump the best history buff in the family as it did on many occasions when J-Mom and I played. The game itself provided quite a lengthy game play which was nice and in many ways you get to be your own detective as you uncover the clues to the answers you are working to find. All-in-all, this was a great game for the whole family!



All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - The Good, The Bad, and the Crazy

About the Book
The Good, The Bad, and The Crazy: No One’s Ever Called Me Boring (Duke, M.D. Literary Enterprises, L.L.C.) by Mary Ann Duke, M.D., is the true story of a modern-day Joan of Arc who survived being burned at the stake by the male-dominated medical and judicial systems, and now dares to tell the unrevealed truth.

Mary Ann Duke was the epitome of a success story. She graduated from medical school at age twenty-three and became a board-certified ophthalmologist by age thirty. Her private practice in the prestigious suburb of Potomac, Maryland had a patient list that read like a Who’s Who of the Washington Metropolitan Social Register. Dr. Duke was granted privileges at the renowned John Hopkins’ Wilmer Eye Institute. Happily married, she lived in a gorgeous home with her husband and their three beautiful children.

That is, until the day she found her husband and best friend together and her perfect world exploded, sinking her into a pit of despair. This was the beginning of the end for Mary Ann Duke; the God-fearing, small town girl from upstate New York. She began drinking to ease her pain, and the alcohol, along with an untreated bipolar disorder, soon cost her everything…

The Good, The Bad, and The Crazy is packed with life lessons that come together in a mixture of spirit and guts, new-found wisdom and touching sorrow. This writer’s sharp wit and glorious sense of humor (especially when she describes being in jail with an alleged killer) makes her book a page-turner that is impossible to put down!

The Good, The Bad, and The Crazy not only chronicles the myriad challenges and prejudices a brilliant, young female doctor faces from both the medical and legal systems, but it also tells the very personal and moving story of her downward spiral into alcoholism; her private war with bipolar disorder; her fight for custody of her children, and the pain of incarceration. Yet the sheer determination and perseverance of this writer incites readers to cheer for her tenacious spirit that has proven no matter what the odds - she will never give up.

Dr. Mary Ann Duke’s electrifying book challenges the status quo and shamelessly avenges her honor. It is a story of social protest that will be read and revered for generations to come. The final pages of The Good, The Bad, and The Crazy are scanned medical and legal documents that prove the truth of her writing.

For more on this attention-grabbing book please see: www.thegoodthebadandthecrazy.com.

About the Author
Samuel R. Shumaker, III, Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col., published author: "A genuine page turner. The most insightful and wise book of our generation about the medical and legal systems of America gone cancerous. The harsh realities are deftly balanced by the devastatingly perceptive humor of the author, an accomplished eye surgeon. This book is impossible to put down."

My Take on the Book
This was a book that I found to be so engaging. It was one of those books that you found yourself wanting to know what would come next. It was amazing that the author could in fact have had the experiences that she has in her life and at times I found myself saying, "really?", but alas it is true and the things that she shares were just amazing! There were parts in this book that made me laugh, while in others you see and realize some grim realities as well so the book itself is well balanced. The book is one that I think any would enjoy reading and it is one that has even more chapters within it (if the first book here is any indication).

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - I am a Follower: The Way, Truth, and Life of Following Jesus

About the Book
It's time to leave the leadership obsession behind. It's never been about leading.

“Leadership” has become a runaway obsession for those who are called to equip the body of Christ for service in the Kingdom of God. The concept of “followership” is all but lost in the wake of this leadership fetish, a near hypnotic obsession. Jesus’ clear call, and the pattern of New Testament leadership, are actually found in a pattern of followership. We’ve been told otherwise but when it comes to a movement in our churches, our families, or the workplace, everything rises or falls on followership. Sweet proposes an intentional shift from leadership cults to followership cultures. He critiques the issue of leadership obsession but focuses on reigniting a passion for the "follow me" theme found throughout the gospels and the entire New Testament. Building on a set of metaphors/images, he stirs the imagination by showing what it means to be a follower of Christ and explains the vital cog that followership and the first follower play in helping others enter into the Kingdom of God.

I Am A Follower moves readers:
  • from leaders that are over to followers that are among
  • from sages and gurus to scouts and guides
  • from Saul's armor to David's sling
  • from having the right answers to asking the right questions
  • from architects to gardeners
About the Author
Len Sweet was born of a mixed marriage: his mother was a fiery Pilgrim Holiness-ordained preacher from the mountains of West Virginia and his quiet father a Free Methodist lay leader from the Adirondack mountains of upstate New York. After a deconversion at 17, when Len set about less sowing wild oats than planting prairies, he became an atheist intellectual and scholar dedicated to exposing the nincompoopery and poppycockery, if not tomfoolery and skullduggery of all religions. After this seven-year period of liminality, Len came back to the faith of his ancestors, where he has been ever since, exploring the "insterstices" and "semiotics" of religion, culture and history. He uses two words to describe himself: semiotician and interstitial. In other words, he is obsessed with two questions: "Where have you been?" and "Where are you going?"

My Take on the Book
So many of us, when it comes to our lives, want to be leaders, I know that I do. Every day I go to work and I am expected to be a leader in what I do and what I say to others. When it comes to my spiritual life, why would this be any different? What was interesting about this book was that the book itself makes you re-evaluate what it means to be a follower of Jesus. The author postulates that what you really have to do is step away from being a leader per se and allow Jesus to lead and instead to be a follower of his leadership. The premises in this book are sound and the author lays out some compelling arguments. There were parts of the book that were a bit harder to get through as the author uses his vast knowledge of spirituality to strengthen his arguments, where in my opinion he could have toned this down a bit  and still have a strong message. Overall though this was a great book that truly does make you reconsider the path that you are on!


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Tuesday, December 27, 2011

DVD Review - The Greening of Whitney Brown

About the DVD
As the most popular girl in her uptown Philadelphia middle school, Whitney Brown seemingly had it all. Her parents, Henry and Joan, were happy and prosperous. She was elected president of her class. Her grades were perfect, her clothes were perfect, her friends were perfect – and she had a crush on the perfect boy. Her life was every girl’s dream – until the day reality crashed Whitney’s party. Her father loses his job, and with it, his family’s financial security. Forced to relocate to her grandparents’ abandoned farm far away from civilization, Whitney Brown suddenly becomes the unluckiest girl on the planet. Isolated and unhappy, Whitney is cut off from everyone and everything, unable to stay in contact with her former life and its trappings. Then, on the farm, she meets a horse named Odd Job Bob. And her life – as well as his – would never be the same.

My Take on the DVD
As my daughters get older I want them to truly understand what is important in life. Too often on television you see the materialism of society, but this movie was one that was a feel good movie that made you truly understand that what is most important are things like family, or doing the right thing when needed. The movie was family friendly and fun overall,  Whether you are an animal lover ( you will love the horse in this movie) or you are looking for a family movie, this movie is definitely on that I would highly recommend!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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DVD Review - Archer, Season 2

About the DVD
Sterling Archer, the world’s most dangerous spy, and his snarky ISIS cohorts are back for another outrageously raunchy season when ARCHER The Complete Second Season comes to Blu-ray and DVD on December 27th from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.

Loaded with three exclusive top-secret animated shorts, ARCHER The Complete Second Season features all 13 episodes plus hilarious never-before-seen extras!

When he’s not busy foiling eco-terrorist threats, tracking down mysterious killers, or having sex in x-ray machines, the suave master-spy has his hands full with bikini-clad ninjas, Swiss nymphomaniacs, and paternity suits. Archer searches for the true identity of his father, battles breast cancer, and brings a sexy, ex-KGB agent home to meet his domineering mother. It’s all in a day’s work for the international man of mystery in this uproariously edgy animated farce.

ARCHER features the voice talents of H. Jon Benjamin (“Bob’s Burgers,” “Family Guy”), Jessica Walter (“Arrested Development”), Aisha Tyler (“24,” “Friends”), George Coe, Chris Parnell (“30 Rock,” “Suburgatory”), Judy Greer (27 Dresses, Marmaduke), and Amber Nash.

Blu-ray and DVD Special Features:

  • Ask Archer
  • Archersaurus - Self Extinction
  • Semper Fi
  • L'espoin Mal Fait
  • Isis Invades Comic-con

ARCHER was created by Adam Reed and Floyd County Productions and is executive produced by Reed and Matthew Thompson. The show is produced by FX Productions.

My Take on the DVD
While I missed out on Season one, this series was one that I was quite impressed with. While I had to catch up a bit on what I missed in the first season, I was able to catch on and I enjoyed what I was seeing and the overall tenor of the series in general. The series has some good laughs as well as writing within it. The series does use some running jokes that were a bit predictable, but for me that was fine as they added to the dialogue and to the fun of the series. One of the best things that I can see here is that the series ties in many of the great things that all shows (IMHO) should, action, adventure, intrigue, romance, this show has it all!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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DVD Review - Futurama, Volume 6

About the DVD

  • The future will never be the same when the time traveling pizza boy and his friends wreak havoc on the world as they know it. Loaded with tons of fan favorite special features from the creators, “FUTURAMA” Volume 6 comes to Blu-ray and DVD December 20th from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment
  • Phillip Fry is a 25-year-old pizza delivery boy whose life is going nowhere. When he accidentally freezes himself on December 31, 1999, he wakes up 1,000 years in the future and has a chance to make a fresh start.
  • “FUTURAMA” Volume 6 once again features the original voice cast including Golden Globe® winner Katey Sagal (Sons of Anarchy) as Leela, Billy West as Fry and John DiMaggio as Bender.


Special Features (Blu-ray and DVD):

  • Deleted Scenes
  • Audio Commentary
  • Professor Farnsworth's "Science of a Scene"
  • Reincarnation Explained! With Director Peter Avanzino
  • Futurama F.A.Q. (Frequently Axed Questions)
  • Christopher's Big Score: The Music of Futurama
  • Futurama Fans: 101 Questions

My Take on the DVD
If you have never watched this show before, get ready to laugh. This series has great writing and actors and you will find yourself laughing out loud in many places with the wit and humor that is shared in this series. I had missed some of the episodes in this season, but I was impressed with the quality of the DVD itself and above that there were some great special features that were offered for the true fan! I highly encourage all to check out this DVD set!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Monday, December 26, 2011

Book Review - A Princess and Her Garden

About the Book
From her spouse or significant other, to a demanding boss, to her children or her parents, the modern woman is excellent at taking care of other people. But the one thing she probably forgets? How to take care of herself.

She¹s likely feeling the effects of all that overextension: The 2010 Stress in American Survey (American Psychological Association) reports that almost half of all women (49 percent) surveyed said their stress has increased over the past five years. So how can she set some boundaries, and nurture the one person she¹s been neglecting?

In A Princess and Her Garden: A Fable of Awakening and Arrival (Center for Applications of Psychological Type, October 2011), psychologist and author Patricia Adson, Ph.D. guides women through the self-care process, equipping them with tools for growth and emotional healing.

Using the fable of a princess who tends to everybody else¹s gardens at the expense of her own, the book illustrates the conundrum so many women find themselves in.

"I wrote this story for a women¹s support group I was leading many years ago," says Adson. "The goal was to give them a vocabulary for their emotional work, without all the psychopathology talk. When I saw the tremendous impact this story had on their healing process, I decided to make it available to more women who might need it."

A welcome gift book or book club selection, A Princess and Her Garden includes the interactive guided journal Becoming the Queen of Yourself, which helps the reader move beyond being the Princess of Other People. Journal sections include the gardens of Then (growing up, lessons and conditioning from your family), gardens from The In-Between (leaving home, people you met along the way, victories as well as painful disappointments), and gardens of Now (caring for yourself).

About the Author
PATRICIA ADSON, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist, certified coach, educator and author. In addition to a private coaching practice, she is a mentor coach and member of the Leadership Team at Hudson Institute of Santa Barbara, where she won the 2009 Excellence in Coaching Award. She is well-known for her work in the areas of personal balance, women in transition, and life purpose, and she is the author of Finding Your Own True North and Helping Others Find Direction in Life (1999), Depth Coaching: Discovering Archetypes for Empowerment, Growth, and Balance (2004) and A Princess and Her Garden (2011). Learn more at APrincessAndHerGarden.com.

My Take on the Book
This was an amazing book that was put into the form of a fable. You are drawn into the rich imagery of the book that really tells the tale of a woman in society today. What I loved was the illusion to all of the gardens which this woman must tend. Reading this I can see how many women, while tending these gardens can lose their sense of self, which is some of the underlying messages presented within the story itself. This book was well written and is one that I would encourage all women (and men) to read!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Friday, December 23, 2011

Book Review - My First Hymnal

About the Book
Generations of members of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) have cherished Lutheran hymns and taught these songs to their children in worship and at home throughout the years. Now Concordia Publishing House has created an exceptional hymnal designed especially for little hearts and minds—My First Hymnal. This treasured book will teach even the youngest of believers the traditions of the church as they grow and learn in faith.

“The dilemma we’ve faced is how to bring children into the worship life of the LCMS,” said the editor of My First Hymnal, David Johnson. “With this book, we’ve taken the hymns loved by all generations and combined them with realistic artwork that tells the story of the church and Jesus’ love. This is something that all children can take to church and say ‘This is my hymnal.’”

Johnson and the music department of Concordia Publishing House surveyed parents, teachers, and educators to choose the 52 hymns that appear in My First Hymnal. “These are songs that are easy to remember with language that shows God’s love for children and speaks to His relationship with them through Jesus’ grace and forgiveness.” The content is appropriate for children up to age 10.

Alongside the music and prayers, My First Hymnal features beautifully conceived illustrations highlighting the colors, seasons, and symbols of the Church Year. In contrast to similar childrens’ books, this artwork is rich in color and deeply engages children in the story of Jesus and His Church.

Johnson encourages families to use this book as a devotional resource at home, as an important way to prepare children for Sunday morning worship and equip them to use the full hymnal and benefit from it.

“Parents can help children memorize psalms, prayers, and portions of the Lutheran liturgy,” he said. “Each bit of text or hymn stanza in the book connects with the artwork on the page, so that even small children can understand and have the words of the Church in their mouths at a very early age.”

My Take on the Book
As members of a Lutheran church, this was a great book. The book itself had so many of the songs that we sing on Sundays and they are presented with full color and large words so that kids can easily follow along. What was nice about the book was that it presented the melody line of the music for people to read so they will not get confused by the notes on the staff for all four parts. Also, the book is laid out as the liturgical year progresses so kids can follow along as well and find songs that are typically sung during that time of the yeat. This was a great book that I would highly recommend!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Thursday, December 22, 2011

Noodle Your IQ® Festive Holiday Ornament is Great for All Ages

About the Product
Ages: 8+
Age Category: Family

These 3D wooden pop-out puzzles take average puzzles to a whole new dimension. They come in a variety of shapes and styles. Noodle Your IQ will challenge your mind to develop new skills and stay healthy.

Strengthen your brain, try them all!

My Take on the Product
What I loved about this was that it was a challenge you could work on with the whole family. On top of this, not only was it challenging to build, the end product was simply beautiful. You also could use your own creativity to decorate the ornament in any way that you would like. This is a great gift for any person and as a family gift it will definitely bring you together around the holiday season!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Omaha Steaks Offer Great Quality Food For the Whole Family!

About the Products

Flat Iron Steaks
Robust and beefy Flat Iron Steaks are perfect for the grill. This popular steak is catching on with steak lovers everywhere. Our Flat Iron Steak is extra tender and juicy with a robust, beef flavor that's delicious grilled, broiled, or pan fried. Big on flavor, yet completely trimmed, this trendy steak is one you have to try!

Caramel Apple Tartlets
The perfect choice for dessert or brunch! A delicious made-from-scratch pastry filled with freshly peeled apple slices and topped with real cream caramel have that homemade flavor like mom used to make. Individually wrapped. Simply heat in the oven or microwave and serve warm with ice cream for a delicious sweet treat.

My Take on the Products


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Teacup Rainbow Piggies = Fun For the Whole Family

About the Product
Teacup Piggies are lifelike loveable pets that have moveable legs, head and can interact with you. Dress them, feed them and take them wherever you go! Pet them and they oink, touch their noses and they snort. Each Teacup Piggie Set includes one Teacup Piggie, a teacup, feeding bottle, birth certificate and bow.

Collectable pets respond and interact

Feed them using the included bottle and they will tell you when they're full

Ideal for ages 3 and up

You'll also need

"AA" batteries (2)

My Take on the Product


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Pocoyo SwiggleTraks Inspires Imaginations and Accolades

About the Product
Based on the popular Pocoyo CGI television series, the new Pocoyo SwiggleTraks feature set is the fun and engaging preschool toy that encourages kids to learn through laughter. The set includes pieces that can bend, twist and extend to suit any child’s imagination, and a motorized bridge that gives the set a dynamic “swiggle” action.



Designed to inspire learning through laughter, the Pocoyo SwiggleTraks Feature Set empowers young children to create a track play set that is uniquely their own. The SwiggleTraks system features colorful, flexible track pieces that are simple to connect and easy to add onto, and comes with a motorized, musical Pocoyo vehicle, as well as a moving bridge that puts the exciting “swiggle” movement in SwiggleTraks.

“The Pocoyo SwiggleTraks Feature Set gives the enduring appeal of classic track and vehicle play a state-of-the-art twist with innovative, flexible pieces that add an entirely new dimension for kids,” said Tor Sirset, vice president of marketing for Bandai America Incorporated. “This is the toy of the season that’s going to charm everyone from the curious preschooler, to the savvy parent, to the nostalgic grandparent.”

“The Pocoyo SwiggleTraks system is a meaningful brand extension for Zinkia, complementing the current toys available by offering kids endless creative opportunities to engage with the characters and the stories they tell,” said Maria Doolan, managing director, brand and business development for Zinkia Entertainment. “Through the show, DVDs from NCircle Entertainment and licensed products like Bandai’s toy line, we’ve seen the Pocoyo phenomenon grow significantly to reach millions of preschoolers and parents worldwide.”

In addition to offering delightful, dynamic action, the SwiggleTraks system offers meaningful playtime for preschoolers and parents. Said Kendy Gioia, early childhood development expert and director of the Bandai Preschool Lab, “The SwiggleTraks system not only offers toddlers the chance to engage in independent, self-directed play, but also encourages fine motor skill and cognitive development, like the use of hand-eye coordination and finger dexterity to connect the flexible pieces and control the moving track. These activities are beneficial in preparing preschoolers for the more refined skills needed in school.”

Since its September debut, Pocoyo SwiggleTraks has been recognized as one of the top toys of the year by publications and leading parent’s organizations including:

  • Parents Magazine’s “Best Toys of the Year” 2011
  • The Toy Insider’s “Hot 20” toys for holiday 2011
  • Parent’s Choice Awards Fall 2011 “Recommended” Toy


In addition, SwiggleTraks has been nominated for two of the toy industry’s top awards! We encourage Pocoyo fans to help drive SwiggleTraks to award-winning status by voting for the following programs:



My Take on the Product



All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Sam's Club New Year's Fitness Twitter Party and Giveaway

On Wednesday, December 21, from 7-8 p.m. CT, you are invited to a special holiday Twitter party! Sam’s Club and co-host Susan Carraretto of 5 Minutes For Mom (@5minutesformom) are hosting a #SimpleSavings Twitter Party about fitness in the new year. Sam’s Club and Susan will be sharing tips to get in shape and asking participants for their input as well.

Three #SimpleSavings tweeters will also be randomly selected to win one of three prizes:

  • ProForm Ab Glider $144.98 (3rd prize)
  • ProForm 410 CE Elliptical $499 (2nd prize)
  • ProForm 415 CT Treadmill $499 (1st prize)

If you would like to join the party and be one of the lucky winners, simply join the conversation by tweeting to @SamsClub with the hashtag #SimpleSavings between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. CT (8 – 9 p.m. ET) to get tips and share your favorite simple exercise and fitness tips. I look forward to “seeing” you there!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Chef Ludo Baby Bites for Bugaboo

How are you? Before you step out of the office for the Holiday, I wanted to share Chef Ludo's newest recipe from Ludo Baby Bites for Bugaboo

As you may have heard, Bugaboo and Chef Ludo have teamed up to create Ludo Baby Bites for Bugaboo, a 12 webisode series promoting a healthy, on-the-go lifestyle for modern families. The series is well under way, and i just HAD to share this recipe with you after I tried it for myself. Today, Chef Ludo shared his Grandma's Roast Chicken recipe. It's a recipe that is close to Chef Ludo's heart, is healthy AND delicious, and most of all, great for the whole family!

Please see recipe attached, and go to bugaboo.com/ludobabybites today to watch this newest episode!

LUDO BABY BITES for bugaboo
GRANDMA’S ROAST CHICKEN


INGREDIENTS FOR CHILDREN 6 MONTHS+

CHICKEN:

  • WHOLE ORGANIC CHICKEN
  • 2 BUNCHES OF FRESH ROSEMARY
  • 2 LEMONS
  • 2 BUNCHES OF FRESH THYME
  • 1 WHOLE GARLIC BULB
  • 4 TABLESPOONS OF BUTTER
  • OLIVE OIL


RICE:

  • 2 CUPS BROWN RICE
  • 5 CUPS OF WATER
  • 1 BUNCH FRESH CILANTRO
  • ¼ LEMON
  • FLEUR DE SEL
  • GROUND WHITE PEPPER


COOKING DIRECTIONS

  1. PRE-HEAT OVEN TO 425 DEGREES. DRY THE CHICKEN WITH PAPER TOWEL TO REMOVE EXCESS WATER (EVEN IF FRESH).
  2. STUFF THE CHICKEN CAVITY WITH ONE BUNCH OF ROSEMARY, A FEW BRANCHES OF THYME, ONE WHOLE LEMON (QUARTERED) AND ½ OF ONE WHOLE GARLIC BULB. SPREAD 2 TABLESPOONS OF ROOM TEMPERATURE BUTTER OVER ENTIRE SKIN OF CHICKEN.
  3. HEAT CAST IRON SKILLET OVER MEDIUM HEAT AND LIGHTLY COAT THE BOTTOM OF SKILLET WITH OLIVE OIL. SEAR THE SIDE OF THE GARLIC BULB IN OIL. ADD ONE BUNCH OF FRESH ROSEMARY AND THYME (CHOPPED SLIGHTLY) AND ONE LEMON, QUARTERED, TO SKILLET. ADD TWO TABLESPOONS OF BUTTER. RUB GARLIC BULB ON BOTTOM OF SKILLET TO INFUSE ALL HERBS WITH THE GARLIC JUICE AND LEAVE BULB IN SKILLET. PLACE WHOLE CHICKEN ON TOP OF HERB MIXTURE AND PLACE SKILLET IN OVEN. BASTE CHICKEN WITH BUTTER AND HERB MIXTURE IN PAN EVERY 5 MINUTES, FOR THE FIRST 20 MINUTES. REDUCE HEAT TO 350 AND COOK FOR 45-50 MINUTES. CONTINUE TO BASTE EVERY 5-10 MINUTES*.
  4. WHILE CHICKEN IS COOKING RINSE RICE AND ADD TO MEDIUM POT WITH WATER. ADD A FEW STEMS OF FRESH CILANTRO AND ¼ LEMON TO RICE/WATER MIXTURE. BRING TO BOIL SLOWLY AND COOK ACCORDING TO TIME INSTRUCTIONS ON RICE PACKAGING. BE SURE TO STIR.
  5. CUT AND SERVE CHICKEN AND RICE FOR ADULTS, ADDING FLEUR DE SEL (OR KOSHER SALT) AND GROUND WHITE PEPPER TO TASTE. DRIZZLE JUICE DRIPPING FROM PAN OVER PLATED CHICKEN.
  6. CUT AND SERVE CHICKEN AND RICE. FOR THE FAMILY ADD FLEUR DE SEL (OR KOSHER SALT) AND GROUND WHITE PEPPER TO TASTE. DRIZZLE JUICE DRIPPING FROM PAN OVER PLATED CHICKEN.OF DRIED RED CHILE FLAKES.

TIPS FROM CHEF LUDO

  • THE MORE YOU BASTE THE SKIN OF THE CHICKEN, THE CRISPIER IT WILL BECOME
  • NOTE: BEFORE ADDING NEW FOOD ITEMS TO A CHILD’S DIET, CONSULT YOUR PEDIATRICIAN.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Snapfish Brings Disney Magic to Your Home for the Holiday

As you’re in full swing for the holidays I wanted to let you know that Snapfish is helping Disney fans give the gift of Mickey and Friends, Princess, Cars, Toy Story and Winnie the Pooh this holiday season – perfect for all the little ones in your family!

You can create their own personalized Disney photo books, calendars, posters or prints at the Snapfish Disney Store at http://www5.snapfish.com/snapfish/storepage/storePageId=store-disney.

Now through December 26, you can also get two free Photo Books when you Buy One with code YOURBOOKS.


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Sweet Homemade Gift Ideas (plus clever ways to package them)!

Below please find Country Living’s Sweet Homemade Gift Ideas (plus clever ways to package them). Nothing says family fun like spending time in the kitchen with your children, especially during the holidays. These crafty goodies make perfect inexpensive DIY last minute gifts!

Sweet Homemade Gift Ideas (plus clever ways to package them)!

At the Brooklyn bakery One Girl Cookies, owner Dawn Casale rewrites history- updating old family recipes with fresh flavors- and draws upon the past to present the treats in vintage jars, tins, and more. Santa’s not the only one who loves sweets; these unique gifts will make anyone’s holiday deliciously delightful, especially for a cookie swap!

Step 1: Choose your cookie!

Chocolate Whoopie Pies with Peppermint Filling
Makes 24 whoopie pies. Working time 30 min. Total time 1hr. 15 min.

2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
¾ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup light-brown sugar
½ cup plain whole-milk yogurt
1⁄3 cup canola oil
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Peppermint Filling (recipe below)


  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  2. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat together sugars, yogurt, oil, eggs, and vanilla on medium speed until mixed, about 3 minutes. Scrape down sides of bowl as needed. Reduce mixer speed to low; gradually add flour mixture and mix for 30 seconds. Cover and refrigerate batter until chilled, about 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat oven to 350°F. Transfer batter to a pastry bag fitted with a large plain tip (about ½ inch wide). Pipe 2-inch circles onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing whoopies 1½ inches apart. (Keep batter refrigerated between batches.)
  4. Bake until whoopies spring back when touched, about 9 minutes. Cool completely on pans.
  5. To fill pies: Turn half the whoopies over so they’re bottom-side up. Using a pastry bag or butter knife, add a dollop (1½ tablespoons) of Peppermint Filling onto each whoopee bottom. Top with remaining whoopies.


Peppermint Filling
Makes 2 cups. Working time 10 min. Total time 10 min.

4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
1⁄8 teaspoon salt
3 cups confectioners’ sugar, plus more if needed

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat together cream cheese and butter on medium speed until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down sides of bowl as needed. Reduce mixer speed to low; add peppermint extract and salt, and mix for 30 seconds. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and mix for 1 minute. If filling is too soft to hold its shape, add more confectioners’ sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency. (Store in refrigerator, in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed onto surface of filling, for up to 5 days.)

Nana Cookies
Makes 36 cookies. Working time 25 min. Total time 40 min.

2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons solid vegetable shortening, at room temperature
½ stick unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup sugar
1 large egg, plus 1 large egg yolk
¼ cup whole milk


  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
  2. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat together shortening, butter, and sugar on medium speed until light yellow and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down sides of bowl as needed. Add egg and egg yolk, and beat for 1 minute.Reduce mixer speed to low; add a third of flour mixture and a third of milk, and mix for 30 seconds. Scrape down sides of bowl. Repeat. Add remaining flour mixture and only enough milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, to yield a smooth dough, and mix. (It should not be too sticky.)
  3. Preheat oven to 350°F. Transfer batter to a pastry bag fitted with a star tip (about ½ inch wide). Pipe 4-inch-long cookies onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing 1 inch apart. (Keep batter refrigerated between batches.)
  4. Bake cookies until lightly golden around edges, about 15 minutes, rotating baking sheets halfway through. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.


Cream Cheese Shortbread with Toasted Walnuts
Makes 36 cookies. Working time 15 min. Total time 30 min.

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
1½ sticks unsalted butter, softened
4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
¾ cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract


  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add chopped walnuts and stir to combine. Set aside.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat together butter, cream cheese, and sugar on medium speed until light yellow and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down sides of bowl as needed. Add vanilla and mix for 1 minute. Reduce mixer speed to low; gradually add flour mixture and mix for 20 seconds. Take bowl off mixer and finish mixing dough with a rubber spatula.
  3. Roll about 1½ tablespoons of dough into a ball. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and gently press to flatten top. Repeat with remaining dough, spacing 1 inch apart.
  4. Bake cookies until light brown around edges, 14 to 16 minutes, rotating baking sheets halfway through. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.


Chocolate-Pistachio Biscotti
Makes 48 biscotti. Working time 25 min. Total time 1 hr. 35 min.

4 navel oranges
2 cups sugar
½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
¾ cup shelled pistachios, unsalted
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
Fleur de sel, if desired


  1. Cut long, thin strips of zest (avoid white pith) from oranges. Place zest in a small saucepan, add enough water to cover, and bring to a boil over high heat. Then drain off water. Repeat boiling and draining process 2 more times. Set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring 1½ cups water and 1 cup sugar to a boil. Add zest and simmer for 4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  3. Place chocolate chips in a food processor and pulse 3 or 4 times to break up. Add pistachios and pulse 2 or 3 times.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat together butter and remaining sugar on medium speed until light yellow and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add eggs and beat on medium speed until incorporated, 2 to 3 minutes.
  6. Reduce mixer speed to low; using a slotted spoon, add candied orange zest to buttersugar mixture and beat for 30 seconds. Gradually add three-fourths flour mixture, scraping down sides of bowl as needed. Add chocolate-pistachio mixture and remaining flour mixture, mixing until dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
  7. Divide dough into 2 equal pieces and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using damp hands, shape each piece into a 12-inch-long log, ½ inch high.
  8. Bake logs until firm, about 24 minutes, rotating baking sheets halfway through. Reduce oven temperature to 250°F. Cool logs on baking sheet for 12 to 15 minutes.
  9. Transfer logs to a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, slice each into 24 half inch- thick biscotti. Place biscotti on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing ½ inch apart. Sprinkle with fleur de sel, if desired. Bake biscotti until slightly crisp, about 10 minutes, rotating baking sheets halfway through. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.


Step 2: Wrap it up!


  • Cherry vintage tins add a personal touch to baked goods. Striped and polka-dot patterned tins, paired with contrasting ribbon or wrapping paper add a unique touch.
  • Take a bakery fresh approach with printed paper bags. This bright idea is reminiscent of childhood fun at the country fair.
  • Mini-Bundt, cupcake, and loaf pans double as “boxes” that recipients can put to good use. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!
  • Mason-jars are a sweet way to wrap up treats. Don’t have any on hand? Try an empty honey or jam jar. Short on time? Layer the dry ingredients into the jar, secure the lid then write the remaining directions on the tag. Don’t forget a bow!
  • For a professional finish, reinvent old holiday cards with stamps and scissors to create a personal tag without spending a dime!


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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ABC's The Chew - Holiday Headquarters

The Chew is pleased to present their Holiday Headquarters!




The Chew is ready to kick off this holiday season right by offering all types of recipes, party tips, and decorating skills that will make your Holiday the best one yet.




Holiday Headquarters: http://beta.abc.go.com/shows/the-chew/holidays

Latest Recipes:  http://beta.abc.go.com/shows/the-chew/episodes/December-13-2011

Schedule: http://beta.abc.go.com/shows/the-chew/articles/schedule


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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DreamWorks Pictures' WAR HORSE -- New Clip Now Available!



DreamWorks Pictures’ “War Horse,” director Steven Spielberg’s epic adventure, is a tale of loyalty, hope and tenacity set against a sweeping canvas of rural England and Europe during the First World War. “War Horse” begins with the remarkable friendship between a horse named Joey and a young man called Albert, who tames and trains him. When they are forcefully parted, the film follows the extraordinary journey of the horse as he moves through the war, changing and inspiring the lives of all those he meets—British cavalry, German soldiers, and a French farmer and his granddaughter—before the story reaches its emotional climax in the heart of No Man’s Land.

The First World War is experienced through the journey of this horse—an odyssey of joy and sorrow, passionate friendship and high adventure. “War Horse” is one of the great stories of friendship and war— a successful book, it was turned into a hugely successful international theatrical hit that is currently on Broadway. It now comes to screen in an epic adaptation by one of the great directors in film history.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - My Monster Burrufu

About the Book
“My Monster Burrufu” (ISBN 061545934X), is a children’s picture book written by Alberto Corral and illustrated by Alessandra Sorrentino. This literary phenomena brings a new light to stories about monsters and children showing how the most amazing and lifelong friendship may be waiting to flourish in unexpected places.

“My Monster Burrufu” tells the story of Olivia, a 7-year-old girl who just moved into a new home that contains a secret attic with a surprising occupant. This is a delightful story with an important message for young generations. The book includes a good mix of humor and drama with characters that are believable and relatable.


As an artist at DreamWorks Animation, Corral understands the importance of a story filled with action, adventure and humor with captivating visuals. Written to engage and entertain, the book is intended for young readers and for parents to read with their children.

“My Monster Burrufu” is available for sale online at Amazon.com, Kindle version and other channels.

About the Author and the Illustrator: Alberto Corral was born in the Canary Islands, Spain. He fell in love at an early age with movies, acting, directing and animation. After teaching himself to animate at home, moved to Madrid for further study. Corral worked in various locations in the U.K. and Spain before coming to New York to study acting at the New York Film Academy. From there he got a job at DreamWorks Animation in L.A. and worked on movies including “Shrek Forever After” and “Kung Fu Panda 2.” Corral has also worked on two films in Spain that won Goya awards, the Spanish version of the Oscars. His IMDB page can be found at www.imdb.com/name/nm3208207/.

Alessandra Sorrentino was born in Turin, Italy. She has worked as an animator and an illustrator for Cartoon Network, Disney, BBC and the Oscar nominated movie “The Secret of Kells.” She has also illustrated the three books of the “Leila Blue” saga. http://www.alessandrasorrentino.com/.

My Take on the Book
As a father I am always looking for books that contain a strong message. This book does this and shares a message of love and acceptance that you do not always find in other books. I am constantly telling my eldest daughter about the importance of looking inside of people for the good in all and this book shares such a message too. What was best was that the book shares these messages through the adventures of a character that they can relate to. My eldest daughter thought that Olivia was cool and she actually mentioned that she would love to have adventures like her someday.

The book was a fun, enjoyable read and I for one am hoping that there will be other books to come from this duo!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Love That Works

About the Book
“The best thing for a father to do for his children is to love their mother.” If your baby could talk, this is what s/he would say to you, for as you know, many parents discover how easy it is to focus much of their love and attention on their children to the detriment of their primary relationship. Sadly, it is often the most intimate connections in these relationships that are affected first… An unhealthy sex life is often cited as the reason that most couples leave each other and can turn what was once a passionate intimate life into co-existence in a heartbeat. Many times both parents, who are working as fast as they can to keep the family going, are often mystified by their partner’s growing discontent and have no idea how to make the changes that could make a difference for their relationship. I am sure your readers would be interested in learning the relationship skills that make maintaining a healthy long-term intimate life second nature. Wendy Strgar’s writing on love that works offers the tools and insights that can transform challenging relating into opportunities for growth and intimacy.

Wendy Strgar and her husband Franc have raised 4 children throughout the course of their 30- year marriage and enjoy a passionate and vital intimate life. Wendy’s book Love That Works: A Guide to Enduring Intimacy has the answers you’re looking for to any of your relationship and intimacy questions. Critically acclaimed as the “quintessential relationship guide,” the book debunks the social mythology of soul mates and perfect partnerships that distract from the real work of loving. With a combination of memoir, stories and practical love skills, Love That Works’ primary premise is that committed relationships work best when we approach them as a method of personal growth.

Love That Works is based on Wendy’s own personal work on her marriage, as well as her work with thousands of couples nationwide, while building her organic love product business: Good Clean Love. Founded in 2003 due to her sensitivities to mainstream intimacy products, Good Clean Love has blossomed into an award-winning business that sells organic intimacy products with no petrochemicals or parabens globally. Its sister site, The Good Clean Love Daily, also hosts award-winning educational resources, including Wendy’s critically acclaimed blogs like Making Love Sustainable.

My Take on the Book
As a man I have to say that reading relationship book is not something I do a lot, but in looking at this book I have to say that the author does a great job at getting both men and women to explore their relationships and what makes them strong and what can break them down. The book was an engaging one and it was like you were sitting listening to the author in the room as she shared her knowledge. The book was easy to understand and that author has done a great job at sharing practical experiences and ideas that all will be able to understand and implement. The book was a quick read and though I can see that you may want to read this again and again, the book itself lends itself to this too. All-in-all this was a great book that can only strengthen your relationship with your significant other!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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