Spin by Catherine McKenzie.....Review & Giveaway!

Happy Monday Readers!   Well, I had BIG plans for this weekend.  I had lots of coupons and giveaways to get live but I got sidetracked by a book I absolutely FANTASTIC read.  Spin by Catherine McKenzie kept me from doing laundry, dishes AND updating this blog!  Here is the scoop on what kept me fervently flipping pages...

Book Description

Kate's To-Do List:

1. Go to rehab
2. Befriend/spy on "It Girl"
3. Write killer expose
4. Land dream job

Piece of cake!

When Kate Sandford lands an interview at her favorite music magazine, The Line, it's the chance of a lifetime. So Kate goes out to celebrate—and shows up still drunk to the interview the next morning. It's no surprise that she doesn't get the job, but her performance has convinced the editors that she'd be perfect for an undercover assignment for their gossip rag. All Kate has to do is follow "It Girl" Amber Sheppard into rehab. If she can get the inside scoop—and complete the thirty-day program—they'll reconsider her for the position at The Line. Kate takes the assignment, but when real friendships start to develop, she has to decide if what she has to gain is worth the price she'll have to pay.

This book was so engrossing.  I completely lost myself in the main character and felt myself both cringing at her behaviour and rooting for her the whole way.  I could not wait to get to the end of the book to see what would happen (happy ending or not??) but I also did not want it to be over.  I found Catherine McKenzie's style to be so easy to read.  Not in an "easy, fluff" read but in an entirely relate able way which made me want to help/befriend/be the main character.  What a talent!  I was thrilled when the end of the book arrived (not giving the end away....my lips are sealed as tightly as a gossip columnist when it comes to sources!) not because the book was over but because I got a preview of the next 2 books coming out from the author this spring and fall.  I am at the edge of my seat waiting for them to come out.  Catherine McKenzie is an author to watch! 

Spin will be released on February 7th but you can pre-order your copy today on Amazon (do it!!!)...

I am so pleased to tell you that the publisher is giving one lucky RBM reader a copy of Spin!  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...
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Brand New Coupons....Print Them Before They are Gone!!

I just got word about some hot  new coupons ready for printing.  Here they are with the links to print them for free.  I am excited because my store (Shaws!!) doubles coupons which will make these items almost free! 

Dream Face - $2.00 off any Maybelline® New York Dream Face Cosmetics
http://lm.logicalmedia.com/z/29761/CD14034/cid=16868147

Ricola© Throat Lozenges - $0.75 off one Ricola© Dual Action
http://lm.logicalmedia.com/z/29761/CD14034/cid=16868156

Ricola© Throat Lozenges - $1.00 off Two (2) Ricola© Dual Action
http://lm.logicalmedia.com/z/29761/CD14034/cid=16868145

Rayovac - $0.55 off Rayovac Alkaline Batteries
http://lm.logicalmedia.com/z/29761/CD14034/cid=16862143

Hairbo - $0.30 off any one 4 oz. or larger HARIBO product
http://lm.logicalmedia.com/z/29761/CD14034/cid=16817056 Pin It

Great Gift Idea...Rolling Stone Magazine 74% off!

Looking for a great gift idea? Check out this deal....you can get 26 issues of Rolling Stone Magazine for only $25.99.....that is a 74% savings off the usual more than $100 price tag!  This would make a fantastic gift.  Click HERE to order and for details! Pin It

Free Valentine's Day Craft Ideas!

Looking for FREE and fun Valentine's Day crafts for the kids? Click the banner above and score free ideas sure to keep you and the kiddos busy! I am trying to choose what the kids and I will be doing this afternoon. Such fun and creative ideas! Pin It

Deal of No Deal Anyone??

Ok...we all need a little downtime now and then, right?  Well, how about trying your luck at Deal or No Deal on GSN?  You can play for free and win a little cash!!  Now that is my idea of fun.  Are you a risk taker or do you play it safe?  I am off to try my luck...maybe I will be a winner!!  Let me know if you play and how you do!  Click the picture above to get started! Pin It

Scooby- Doo Mystery Incorporated Crystal Cove Curse Season 1 Part 2...Giveaway!

You may remember that on Thursday I was singing the praises of the latest Scooby Doo release.  Scooby- Doo Mystery Incorporated Crystal Cove Curse Season 1 Part 2 is in stores now and is a BIG hit in our house with the kids AND adults!  Here is a recap...

Synopsis:
The adventures of a talking dog and his four human pals as they try to unravel the strange and haunted history of their hometown. The tone is comedic, but it will never lose the edge that our heroes are in some frightening situations. The stakes are real. Now you can see the second 14 episodes of Season 1 together in this set.

I am so excited to tell you that Warner Bros. is giving one lucky RBM reader their own DVD of this great new release! Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...
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Celebrate Valentine's Day with ZhuZhu Pets Music! Giveaway!

You all know I am a ZhuZhu Pets super fan.  We loves those furry little creatures in our house.  All three of my children love the actual  pets, loved the Quest for Zhu movie and now they are enjoying music preformed by their furry pals!  The Quest for Zhu CD is filled with the fun  songs you loved from The Quest for Zhu movie all preformed by the ZhuZhu Pets it is a adorable. 

A lot of parents will recognize the songs preformed as they are remakes of some classics like "Celebration" originally made famous by Kool and the Gang and  "ABC" originally preformed by the Jackson Five.  I can guaranty you will find yourself singing right along with your kids!  Who cares if they don't know who Kool and the Gang are....EVERYONE can belt out and have fun with Celebration!  You can check out the ZhuZhu Pets singing their songs on their You Tube page HERE.

If you have not yet seen the movie Quest for Zhu you should really check it out with the kids. It is a great flick and fun for the whole family.  You can pick up both the DVD and the soundtrack on Amazon. 

I am so excited to tell you that, in celebration of the sweet sounds of the ZhuZhu Pets, one lucky RBM reader will win a fantastic ZhuZhu Pet prize pack including the following...

(1) DVD of QUEST FOR ZHU® the movie

(1) Set of 4 Limited Edition Collectible ZhuZhu Pets ® Figurines

(1) CD of the Official Soundtrack for QUEST FOR ZHU ™

(1) ZhuZhu Babies ™ toy, including accessories
*please note, one of the pictured boxed toys will be selected for the winner*

Great prize, right??  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter....

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FREE Prilosec Sample!!!

Heartburn anyone?? I have used Prilosec in the past and it worked like a charm. I was super excited to find free samples available. You never know when you might need it! Click on the picture above to score your freebie! Pin It

Free Printable Coupons=BIG Savings!

Many of you have requested more free, printable coupons so I have a list with links to some new ones.  Remember, you can print 2 copies of each to really maximize your savings!
Coupons.com Grocery Coupons

Beverages

$0.55 off Florida's Natural Ruby Red Juice

$1.00 off ONE 6-pack Snapple Tea

Books & Magazines

$2.00 off the February issue of InStyle


Foods

$1.00 off any JOSÉ OLÉ brand item

$1.00 off one bag of M&M'S Pretzel

$1.00 off TWO OSCAR MAYER CARVING BOARD

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Timmy Time: Timmy Needs a Bath....Review & Giveaway!

Lionsgate & HIT Entertainment just released a new DVD featuring that adorable sheep Timmy.  Timmy Time:  Timmy Needs A Bath is available for purcahse now.  Here is the scoop...

Grab your rubber ducky and get ready to soak in some lamb-tastic good fun as preschool favorite Timmy Time™ returns for an all new family-friendly, good-hearted release, Timmy Time: Timmy Needs A Bath, now available on DVD from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment.

With slapstick humor and not a single line of dialogue, Timmy Time follows a day in the life of barnyard preschoolers. With diverse animal characters along with a rich and colorful nursery school backdrop, Timmy and his friends learn life lessons that every preschooler needs to know. Whether fleeing bath time, becoming a walking collage, being bitten by the cleaning bug or engaging in a paint war, Timmy and his pals always bring joy, heart and a little silliness to any situation.

DVD SYNOPSIS:
Enjoy some good clean fun with Timmy and his friends! Adventures with mud, glue and paint leave Timmy in some sticky situations. This clever little lamb uses his creativity to make tub-time fun and turn a paint fight into a masterfleece! Timmy cleans up and discovers the most fun of all is being with friends! Soak up the good times with Timmy…just don’t forget to wash behind your ears!
Episodes:

• “Timmy Needs A Bath”
• “Sticky Timmy”
• “Tidy Timmy”
• “Timmy Goes Camping”
• “Timmy The Artist”

What did we think?  Timmy is always a big hit at our house.  For some reason the fact that Timmy and his pals do not utter a single word is both facscinating and hilarious to all three of my children.  Little r, in particular thinks the crazy antics of Timmy are just a riot.  When you couple Timmy with another favorite (at least in our house!) activity like taking a bath you really can't miss.  This adorable DVD can be purchased on Amazon for just $11.99....


I am so pleased to tell you that Lionsgate & HIT Entertainment are giving one lucky RBM reader a copy of Timmy Time:  Timmy Needs a Bath!  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...
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Freshout: A Site to Watch!

In my quest for more research about online jobs and development of my site, I came across the company Freshout (www.freshout.us).  Frehsout is a full service web application design and development agency which specializes in making your ideas come to life quickly.  In  a nutshell?  Freshout is  a web development company.

I can really appreciate a company like Freshout because I often struggle with the "techie" aspects of my website and I know many businesses feel the same way that I do.  The people at Freshout have a mind for web development with a keen eye for web design so they can make your vision happen.  The Freshout team takes stock of your business and creats a plan specifically created for your business.  They listen to your feedback every step of the way (after all...this is your baby!).

Freshout is right on top the latest and quickest technology assuring you the best success with your project.  They are particularly in tune to SEO and rankings and aim to create a project which puts you at the top of your niche.  If you are looking for a HubSpot or a company to help you make your dream site to reality, check out the team at Freshout.  They can help you every step of the way! Pin It

The Big Year: Out on Tuesday! Giveaway!

Remember last week when I told you that I had a giveaway for the upcoming release, The Big Year?  Well, to celebrate the Tuesday release of this great flick my giveaway is going live today!  Have you seen The Big Year yet?  If you did not get to see it in the theaters be sure to get your hands on a copy on Tuesday.  Here is the scoop...

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

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

Think these guys are the only bird lovers around (well....they may be the funniest!).  Here are some bird loving celebrities....

Brad, Kenny and Stu are not the only people fascinated by ornithology. They are joined by a well-known bunch of famous faces including Daryl Hannah, Paul McCartney & Prince Philip. Here, we’ll take a fun look at the array of celebrities who have a passion for feathered friends much like our leading men.

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

Prince Philip

The Duke of Edinburgh is an accomplished bird photographer, writer, and wildlife advocate. Due to his extended time spent on the royal yacht, Prince Philip began photographing rare seabirds. In 1962, he published Birds from Britannia, a collection of pictures of some of the world’s rarest birds. Additionally, Prince Philip later became president of the World Wildlife Fund.

Daryl Hannah

Daryl Hannah isn’t just an actress – she’s also an environmentalist and a birdwatcher! It is unknown whether Hannah is an avid or casual birdwatcher, but she has stated in interviews that she enjoys bird watching. Regardless of her level of activity in the bird watching arena, Hannah is a fierce advocate of the environment and of various species, birds included.

Paul McCartney

As a teenager, Paul McCartney was a big fan of the BBC nature show “Look” – he even wrote to its host (wildlife artist Peter Scott) asking for “the drawings of them ducks, if you’re not doing anything with them.” Since his youth, McCartney has been a passionate advocate for birds and other wildlife, including the endangered skylark, which he used to watch in Liverpool as a child.

 

Jimmy Carter

Former President of the United States of America, Jimmy Carter, is an avid birder! Jimmy and his wife, Rosalyn, have birded throughout the world. Rumors in the birding community speculate that their combined life list is around 1,500 species! In interviews Jimmy has spoken about checking out bird ringing stations in Israel and searching for African Hoopoes in Zimbabwe.


Be sure to pre-order your copy of this hilarious movie today on Amazon....
One lucky RBM reader will win a DVD of The Big Year! Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...
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Chuck E. Cheese's Magic Ticket & Giveaway!

We recently attended at birthday party at one of our favorite places...Chuck E. Cheese's.  It was so much fun and kids and adults alike all enjoyed themselves.  I was really impressed by everything included in the party packages and am definitely thinking of going this route for the boys next year.  Now, on top of the already great birthday party perks you can find a Magic Ticket!

If you have been to a Chuck E. Cheese's birthday party you know all about the Ticket Blaster. The Ticket Blaster allows kids to be in an enclosure where tickets are "blasted" and blown all around them.  It is SO fun for the kids (and spectators too!).  Check it out....


Now with the addition of that Magic Ticket the fun is amplified!  On top of the Magic Ticket, you can find red vouchers worth 50 tickets and yellow vouchers worth 100 tickets in addition to lots of regular tickets.  I think I want my OWN party at Chuck E. Cheese's!  You can reserve you birthday party today online by clicking HERE.

Stay current with the latest Chuck E. Cheese's news by following on Facebook and Twitter.

I am so excited to tell you that Chuck E. Cheese's is giving two lucky RBM readers a guest pass which is good for one large pizza, 4 soft drinks and 30 tokens!  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter....

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Scooby-Doo Mystery Inc. Crystal Cove Curse Season 1 Part 2....Out Now!

A&W's absolute favorite show is Scooby Doo.  They love the new and old episodes equally...it just has to be all Scooby ALL the time!  When the latest DVD featuring that mystery solving pooch arrived on our doorstep I got MAJOR cool mom points (love that...thanks Warner Bros!).  Scooby- Doo Mystery Incorporated Crystal Cove Curse Season 1 Part 2 arrived in stores on January 24th and, according to A&W, simply can't be missed.  Here is the scoop...

Synopsis:
The adventures of a talking dog and his four human pals as they try to unravel the strange and haunted history of their hometown. The tone is comedic, but it will never lose the edge that our heroes are in some frightening situations. The stakes are real. Now you can see the second 14 episodes of Season 1 together in this set.


Episodes Info :

When the Cicada Calls
Mystery Solvers Club State Finals
The Wild Brood
Where Walks Aphrodite
Escape from Mystery Manor
The Dragon's Secret
Night Fright
The Siren's Song
The Menace of Manticore
Attack of the Headless Horror
A Haunting in Crystal Cove
Dead Justice
Pawn of Shadows
All Fear the Freak

OK...if I had allowed, the boys would have sat down and watched this entire 2 DVD set...twice!  It has them on the edge of their seats and laughing at the antics of Scoob and Shaggy.  It makes absolutely no difference to them if they have already seen the episodes.  They could watch them over and over (and over and over).  I was an "old school" Scooby fan and enjoy watching familiar faces with the kids.  Like, jinkies, this is fun for the whole family!  Pick up your copy today by clicking HERE.

*Disclosure:  I was provided with the above mentioned product for purpose of review.  No compensation was received for my honest review. Pin It

New Printable Coupons....

I received some nice feedback from people who asked to see some more coupons listed here so I dug up a few new ones to help save at the grocer this week!  Remember to print these off before you head to the store (I am excited abuot the Ruby Red juice which will double at my grocery store!!)...

$1.00 off TWO OSCAR MAYER CARVING BOARD

$1.00 off on TWO packs of Johnsonville Sausage

$1.00 off two (2) packages of ARMOUR Pepperoni

$0.55 off Florida's Natural Ruby Red Juice

$1.00 off Cat's Pride cat litter

$0.75 off any TWO (2) Bagel-fuls (4ct)

$1.00 off ONE 6-pack Snapple Tea

$1.00 off any 12 oz size or larger of COMPLETE

$5.00 off one REAL STEEL 3-Disc Combo Pack

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Fast Lane for Whole Grain...Printable Coupon for General Mills!

Everyone knows how important it is to get a lots of whole grains in their diet but it can be confusing navigating the grocery store trying to make good food choices.  General Mills is making that easier AND has developed a fun game/sweepstakes.  Here is the scoop...

To help make it easier to find whole grain products, General Mills developed "Fast Lane for Whole Grain," an online educational game. Consumers can navigate virtual grocery store aisles and identify products that have whole grain as the first ingredient, with the option to enter a sweepstakes to win one of each of the 50 cereals with the white check.

In connection with healthier lifestyles, a diet rich in whole grain has been linked to healthier body weights, and it may help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

Make a commitment to incorporate more whole grain into your family´s diets by starting their day with a bowl of cereal with the white check, including Cheerios®, Lucky Charms®, Cinnamon Toast Crunch®, Honey Nut Cheerios® and Total®. For more information on the importance of whole grain and a chance to enter the "Fast Lane for Whole Grain" sweepstakes visit www.WholeGrainNation.com.     
General Mills and My Blog Spark have made a great $1.75 off 2 General Mills cereals (awesome coupon!) available.  Click HERE to print and to start saving!

*Special Thanks to My Blog Spark for including me and my readers in this savings opportunity! Pin It

Blurb Anyone?

Have any of you tried Blurb yet?  I keep a family journal/photo album online and I use blurb to turn my words and photos into a hardcover book.  I have been doing it for several years and I treasure these books.  The quality is amazing and the pricing is better than any place I have seen (I really shopped around for this too!).  These books are great family keepsakes.  You can use Blurb to get information from any online format (Blogger, Wordpress etc...) or else use Word or just photos.  You can create albums, journals, cookbooks....whatever you want!  Right now you can receive 15% off your order!  I am using this deal right now for creating my 2011 book.  Click the link below and check out the options....



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Crafty Mama Mondays....Hair Accessory Storage

Don't let the title fool you....I am not one of those super, duper crafty people (I wish!) but I do love to create.  I like to do fun craft things with the kiddos and I also like to craft on my own FOR the kiddos.  I wanted to share my most recent creation with you because it was fun, EASY and inexpensive.  Hooray for the trifecta!

My craft was born from the need to wrangle Little R's hair ornaments.  Barrettes, ribbons, clips and headbands were stuffed haphazardly in a basket and I could never find what I wanted to put into her hair.  I saw an idea on Pinterest (see it here) but it lacked instructions and I wanted to tweak it a bit.

Here is what I used for materials....

Wooden Frame ( the size I used housed an 8x10 picture)
Fabric (I think I used 1/2 a yard which was more than enough)
Ribbon (Mine is 1/2 inch wide)
Staple Gun
Cup Hooks

What I Did.....I removed the glass from the picture frame and put it in recycling (no need for it with this project).  I kept the cardboard backing from the frame and covered it tightly with the fabric.  I used my trusty staple gun to secure it neatly into place on the backside (be sure to iron your fabric before you do this part!).   I then cut out 4 pieces of ribbon long enough to overlap the edges of the cardboard/fabric piece (about 12 inches or so each).  I spaced them evenly apart and then stapled them into the backside of the cardboard.  Next I put the cardboard with fabric and ribbon back into the original frame.  The final step was adding 3 cup hooks evenly spaced on the bottom of the frame.  The result is this...

Pretty cute, right?  Little R loves it and gets a kick out of having all her hair "pretties" on display.  I like how I was able to incorporate her room decor (browns, greens and pinks) into something functional.  It is SO much easier to find her accessories now AND Little R is much more amicable to putting them in her hair when it is so much fun to choose them.  The total cost of this project was less than $5.  I got the fabric and ribbon on clearance and the frame was lying unused around the house.  I would love to hear if you try this and would love to see the pictures too.  Pin It

The Look of Love by Mary Jane Clark....Review & Giveaway!

I recently told you all that one of my favorite ways to spend my time is to curl up with a good  mystery.  Last weekend I find myself engrossed in the latest from bestselling author, Mary Jane Clark.  The Look of Love had me at the edge of my seat and made for some great reading.  Here is the scoop...

Book Description

The Associated Press calls her “one of the most talented storytellers around.” Now, New York Times bestselling author Mary Jane Clark brings readers a delicious new mystery.

The Look of Love

Piper Donovan accepts when the owner of Elysium, an exclusive spa and plastic surgery center, offers her an all-expenses-paid trip to Los Angeles to create a dazzling and unique wedding cake. The job also gives Piper the time and distance she needs to sort out her feelings for handsome FBI agent Jack Lombardi.

The ultra-luxurious spa caters to the rich and famous in need of a little “refreshing”—a nip here, a tuck there, a little Botox, a little detox. Nestled in the Hollywood Hills, Elysium seems picture-perfect: the grounds, the staff, even the guests. But no sooner does Piper arrive than a guest is brutally murdered in one of the private bungalows. Someone, it seems, wants to make sure Elysium’s beautiful director, Jillian Abernathy, never gets to walk down the aisle. Piper soon discovers that beneath the glamorous surface of this idyllic oasis lies an ugly truth—and a cold-blooded plan for murder.

My Take:  I found this book to be very readable.  It is my first time reading Mary Jane Clark and I found her style to be very easy to get into.  The chapters are short which is just perfect for me becauseI often find myself with only snippets of time to read.....I hate to put a book down mid chapter!  I thought the author did a great job making the main character, Piper, to life and I liked the way she juggled the mystery and love interest story.  During dreary winter days I really enjoyed reading about the setting of the mystery....a spa in California?  Sign me up!  I will pass on the murder bits though! 

I am Mary Jane Clark's newest fan and am looking forward to picking up her other books as well.  The Look of Love is actually the second in Clark's Piper Donovan series so I am excited to go back to the first and am anxiously awaiting the third installment.  The Look of Love is a fast paced read filled with suspense and fun characters that will leave you guessing.  Pick up your copy today on Amazon...
I am so happy to tell you that one lucky RBM reader will win a copy of The Look of Love by Mary Jane Clark. Thanks so much to the publisher, Harper Collins, and here is how to enter...
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Thomas & Friends: Curious Cargo....Review & Giveaway!

This past week, Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment released a brand new DVD....Thomas & Friends:  Curious Cargo.  Here is the scoop...

Bunnies and birds and giraffes, oh my! Thomas and his railway pals are carrying some great and unusual freight in the all new release Thomas & Friends: Curious Cargo, available on DVD, Digital Download and On Demand January 17, 2012 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. Thomas and his friends embark on a four fantastic adventures as they deliver the Wildlife Center's newest, long-necked resident, make friends with local animals, chuff off in search of the perfect home for friend Bash and more!

Synopsis:
All aboard for a wild ride on the Island of Sodor as Thomas and his engine friends deliver some Curious Cargo-from giraffes and cows to birds and bunnies and more! Thomas meets a tall challenge while taking a giraffe to the Sodor Wildlife Center, Percy learns to be gentle with the animals of Sodor and Belle and Toby discover the importance of listening to others. Join Thomas on his wildest adventures yet!

Episodes Include:
Thomas' Tall Friend
Percy's New Friends
Toby and Bash
Big Belle

Bonus Features:
Find What Doesn't Belong Game
Determination Song Karaoke Music Video
Exclusive Activities & Fun with Driver Perkins
Buzzy Bees Bonus Episode

As always, Thomas & Friends delivers fun for all ages.  My 5 year old boys and my 2 year old daughter thoroughly enjoyed this collection of Thomas epsisodes.  They are big fans of Thomas but when you add in the fun of animals it is even more appealing for young ones!  This one is sure to be a hit with all Thomas fans and can be purchased for just $11.99 on Amazon...



Lionsgate and HIT Entertaiment are giving one lucky RBM reader a copy of Thomas & Friends:  Curious Cargo!  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

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Walgreen's Prescription Savings Club....

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walgreens for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

I am a Walgreens shopper. We have one nearby and not only do I love their deals (cha-ching! I do some of my best couponing there!) but I love the convenience factor. Not only can I grab necessities but I can also grab health and beauty products and get prescriptions filled. This is fantastic for me because often I have three kids in tow and one stop shopping is a MUST!

 

You may have heard about the negotiations between Walgreens and Express Script to maintain their contract. Unfortunately these negotiations were not successful and, as of December 31st of 2011, Walgreens is no longer a provider for Express Scripts.  Walgreens was willing to try and make the relationship work to benefit the patients but sadly, Express Scripts was not willing to negotiate. The change includes all Walgreens as well as Duane Reed Pharmacies in the NYC area. This is really too bad for Express Script customers who now have a whole lot of disruption to deal with over this matter (what a headache!!).

 

Walgreens is doing all they can to ease the frustration for customers and is standing behind the policy to not raise rates for customers and introducing the Walgreens Prescription Savings Club    . What is the Walgreens Prescription Savings Club? For $10 a year, a family membership covers everyone in your immediate family, including a spouse, dependents 22 and younger and pets. Individuals may join for $5. Join and receive discount prices on your prescriptions.

 

Other benefits include:

Savings on more than 8,000 brand-name and all generic medications

Discounts on flu shots, pet prescriptions, nebulizers and diabetic supplies

Bonuses when you purchase Walgreens brand products and photofinishing services

 

Sounds great to me! To learn more and to stay connected find and follow Walgreens on Walgreens on Facebook and Walgreens on Twitter.

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Guest Post....Good New Year's Flick!

GOOD NEW YEAR'S FLICK

Guest post by Gerard Mcdaniel

I watched a really great movie the other day that I had never seen on my CannonSatellite television. My husband just couldn’t believe that I had never seen “When Harry Met Sally”. I have to say that I have always heard that it was a wonderful movie and that I should see it, but for some reason never had. It didn’t even look familiar when I was watching it. My husband suggested  that we watch it over New Year’s Eve because we weren’t going out and it was a good New Year’s movie. I have to say, I loved it! It was a really great movie. It was Meg Ryan’s break out role in the original romantic comedy. Billy Crystal plays the male lead. It is a love story that unfolds over twelve years. I really enjoyed it. I just couldn’t believe that I had never seen the movie. Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan are so young in the movie. I barely even recognized Meg Ryan because she had long flowing hair and Billy Crystal had hair! “When Harry Met Sally” is definitely on my list to watch next New Year’s too. Pin It

Progresso Souper You Contest & Giveaway!

If you are like many (me, me, me!) one of your New Year's resolutions is to maintain a healthier lifestyle. Progresso Soup is making that goal a bit easier to stick to with their yummy soups and even more fun with an exciting contest.  Here is the scoop...

Now that the ball has dropped and the confetti has settled, it’s time to consider how you will stick to your resolution for the New Year and maintain your weight management plan, without sacrificing on variety or the taste of foods you love. Thanks to Progresso^®, you can have your soup and eat it too!

With 40 delicious soups with 100 calories or less per serving, Progresso Soup has a variety of offerings that help you beat diet boredom and satisfy your taste cravings, while helping you stick to your weight management calorie goals. Progresso soups are packed with hearty ingredients like pasta, beans, rice, meat and vegetables that suit your taste buds and make you feel good about including it in your meal choices.

• This year, the Souper You^® Contest will provide three lucky winners with an ultimate makeover experience in Hollywood; this includes a trip for 2 to Los Angeles, California where the winner will receive a head-to-toe makeover including hair and makeup, guided shopping spree with a $1,000 fashion retailer gift card, $1,000 spending money and 2 tickets to this season’s live finale of NBC’s The Biggest Loser
• Progresso is asking fans to visit www.SouperYou.com and submit their photo with a brief essay about why they love Progresso soups and why they deserve a makeover, by no later than February 22nd
• Fans can check back on March 12th for the announcement of the top ten finalists, and to vote for their favorite finalist until March 25th.

Fun right??  I am a fan of Progresso Soups and I love the huge variety they offer.  My favorite is the Minestrone!  I know it helps me to have healthy and tasty options when I am trying to be smarter about food choices...thanks Progresso!  I am also hoping I win the makeover...how fabulous would that be?  Hello Hollywood! 

SAVE:  Click HERE to print a$1.25 off 4 cans of Progresso coupon!

WIN:  I am so pleased to tell you that one lucky RBM reader will win a Progresso Souper You prize pack containing (2) VIP coupons for Progresso Soup and The Biggest Loser Workout DVD!  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

*“Disclosure:  The Progresso® Souper You® prize pack, information, coupon, and giveaway have been provided by Progresso through MyBlogSpark.”

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Chicken Soup for the Soul: Find Your Happiness...Review & Giveaway!

I am sure you are all familiar with the Chicken Soup for the Soul series.  They offer touching and meaningful stories for all when you need it the most.  They are a comfort just like Mom's chicken soup!  I was delighted when I received the latest installment from Chicken Soup for the Soul earlier this month. Chicken Soup for the Soul:  Find Your Hapiness is full of advice we can all benefit from.  Here is the scoop...

101 Stories about Finding Your Purpose, Passion, and Joy

Others share how they found their passion, purpose, and joy in life in these 101 personal and exciting stories that are sure to encourage readers to find their own happiness. Stories in this collection will inspire readers to pursue their dreams, find their passion and seek joy in their life. This book continues Chicken Soup for the Soul's focus on inspiration and hope, reminding readers that they can find their own happiness.

The book is broken into 10 different sections ranging from "Counting My Blessings" and "The Joy of Giving" to "Finding My Purpose" and "Overcoming Adversity".  Each section shares moving and powerful stories of how everyday people have found happiness in ordinary things and often overcoming seeminly insurmoutable obstacles.  This book is an excellent way to help you to remember to find the hapiness in your life.  An excellent read for anyone!  Pick up your copy today on Amazon...

I am so pleased to tell you that THREE lucky RBM readers will win a copy of Chicken Soup for the Soul: Find Your Happiness. Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...
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The Big Year's New Year's Resolution Checklist!

How are you all doing with those  resolutions??  I am trucking along pretty well although I COULD do better!  Here is a fun way to keep track of your resolutions with the stars of the upcoming release, The Big Year.  Check it out....

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

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

Be sure to check back soon for my upcoming review and giveaway of this hilarious flick! Pin It

Maggie's Direct!

I had such a great response for my Maggie's Direct giveaway...thanks so much to all who entered!  I am not surprised it was so popular though.  Maggie's has fantastic prices and products, not to mention the social bucks factor!  In case you need a reminder, Maggie's gives you social bucks (each social buck is equal to one dollar) to do things like take surveys, review products and all kinds of fun things.  You are rewarded with money to spend on things in their store.  I am working toward some new towels right now!  Maggie's also has FREE SHIPPING.  ALL THE TIME!  Be sure to check out their selection and start shopping and earning bucks!
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Free Printable Coupons....Hurry!

Shopping anyone? If you are, be sure to print off these before you head out the door (remember you can print 2 from EACH of your computers!). I loved the Cinnamon Toast Crunch ones (great deal at Shaws this week), the Planters Peanut Butter (you hardly ever see those!) and the Yoplait Yogurts.  Happy Shopping!!
$1.50 off two PLANTERS Peanut Butter
$0.55 off 2 HORMEL Chili products
$0.40 off SIX CUPS Yoplait Yogurt
$3.50 off Glade Sense & Spray starter kit
$0.50 off one Newman's Own Salsa
$0.55 off two HOMRMEL Pepperoni packages
$0.55 off 2 HORMEL Premium Chicken Breasts
$0.50 off 2 Betty Crocker Fruit snacks
$1.00 off ONE ICBINB! Tub product
$1.00 off 2 boxes Cheerios cereal
$2.00 off Glade PlugIns Scented Oil refills
$0.80 off 4 Hamburger, Tuna or Chicken Helper
$2.00 off LLOYD'S Barbeque Ribs
$3.00 off HORMEL Party Tray product
$1.00 off any Glade Fabric & Air Odor Eliminator
$0.40 off 2 Pillsbury Sweet Rolls
$0.55 off Glade Premium Room Spray (9.7-oz)
$1.50 off on any TWO Glade 4-oz. Jar Candles
$3.00 off Glade PlugIns Lasting Impressions
$2.00 off 1 NIVEA FOR MEN Face Care Product
$0.75 off Yoplait Kid Zone yogurt
$1.00 off 3 can or bowl of Campbell's Select Harve
$0.55 off two HORMEL Bacon Bits products
$0.75 off FRENCH'S Dijon Mustard
$0.50 off Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal
$1.00 off one Newman's Own T&C Pizza
$1.00 off on any Glade Automatic Spray refill
$1.00 off Glade Expressions™ Fragrance Mist
$0.55 off Glade Carpet & Room Odor Eliminator
$3.00 off 10 Weight Watchers Smart Ones
$1.00 off two Athenos Feta, Hummus or Pita Chips
$1.00 off any TWO (2) UNCLE BEN'S Whole Grain
$1.50 off TWO Glade Scented Oil Candle refills
$0.50 off three Zatarain's Rice or Pasta Mixes
$1.00 off one Honey Bunches of Oats cereal
$3.00 off 2 John Frieda Sheer Blonde
$0.30 off FRENCH'S Spicy Brown Mustard
$2.00 off Glade Expressions™ Oil Diffuser

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Anglelina Ballerina: Sweet Valentine...Review & Giveaway!

On January 3rd Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment released a new Angelina Ballerina DVD.  Angelina Ballerina:  Sweet Valentine is  out just in time to  enjoy for Valentine's Day!  Here is the scoop...

DVD Synopsis:Love and friendship take center stage in these sweet stories! Angelina uncovers the mystery of her secret admirer with some help from her friends. Angelina and Alice help Marco realize the true importance of helping his friends. The students celebrate Ms. Mimi and although it may have been for the wrong reason, they do it with a lot of heart! And when Angelina and her girlfriends try to make a girls’ club, they realize a friendship club is much sweeter. Spread the love with dancing, skating, singing and best friends forever!

Episodes:

• "Angelina's Secret Valentine"
• "Angelina and the Hearts on Ice"
• "Angelina's Big News"
• "Angelina and the Mouslinghood of Dancing"
• "Angelina and the Laughing Poet"

DVD Bonus Features:

• Angelina's Picture Game
• "Get Up and Dance" Music Video

As always, Angelina is filled with singing and dancing which the kids love.  As a mom, I really enjoy the positive messages of friendship, respect and teamwork.  I think Angelina Ballerina is one of the best shows for chidren out right now and Sweet Valentine is the perfect addition to your DVD collection.  This would make for a lovely Valentine's Day treat!  Pick up your copy today on Amazon...

I am so pleased to tell you that Lionsgate & HIT Entertainment are giving one lucky RBM reader a copy of Angelina Ballerina: Sweet Valentine! Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...
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The Black Shard by Victoria Simcox...Review!

This past summer I had the pleasure of being introduced the very talented author Victoria Simcox.  I was able to review her first book targeted to children aged 9-13 called The Magic Warble.  It was a delightful trip to a fantasy world that I would have ADORED as a youngster and enjoyed even as an adult.  When Ms. Simcox told me she had her sequel to The Magic Warble coming out I was so happy when she offered to let me review it.  Here is the scoop on the newly released sequal to The Magic Warble, The Black Shard...

The Black Shard, Victoria Simcox’s fast-paced, intricately woven sequel to The Magic Warble, takes Kristina Kingsly and her schoolmates back to Bernovem … and into a thrilling, often dangerous adventure.

Kristina’s stay at summer horse camp is horrible to say the least, and it’s all because Hester and Davina are there as well, making her life miserable. When Hester’s cruel prank goes terribly wrong, it’s actually what sends the three girls back to the magical land of Bernovem. In Bernovem, Kristina is very excited to see her former friend, Prince Werrien. When he invites her to sail with him on his ship to his homeland Tezerel, putting it simply, Kristina can’t refuse.

Reunited with her gnome, dwarf, animal, fairy friends … and best of all, Werrien, things seem like they couldn’t get any better for Kristina. But when Werrien becomes fascinated with an unusual seeing stone, the “Black Shard”, Kristina is haunted by a ghostlike old hag. Struggling against suspicion, guilt, illness, and ultimately the one who wants to possess her soul, Kristina will see it’s in her weakest moment that she will encounter more strength than she has ever known.

The Black Shard is a wonderful follow-up to The Magic Warble.  Once again, Ms. Simcox know just what to do to keep tweens and teens (and this Mom!) interested.  She writes with incredible imagination while keeping the characters relatable.  This is a fantasy sort of book however the focus is still on real life issues and emotions.  I love that!  I think Victoria Simcox has a true gift for writing and has her finger on the pulse of what kids would like to read these days.  In this age of screen time, I think it is a treasure to find a book that has the excitment and magic to transport children away to a fantasy world and Simcox does this perfectly.  Keep the tween and teen in your life reading and pick up a copy of The Black Shard today on Amazon...


Keep current on the author Victoria Simcox by visiting her website, Twitter and Facebook pages. Happy Reading! Pin It

Travel Nursing...

I sometimes begin thinking about what I will do for work once the kids are in school.  Before I know it, they will off  to school and I will be left with more time on my hands than I have had in years.  I often find myself searching the Internet for new opportunities so I can have an eye on what is happening in the job market.  I am still a few years away from all this but my mind is (mostly!) always working.

Today I came across something that was new to me.....Travel nurses.  I had never heard of this but boy if I had heard about it when I was young and single I would have LOVED to try it out.  Have you heard of it?  Well, it is pretty much exactly what it sounds like...you are a nurse who travels!  You are hired to work in a specific location for an amount of time generally ranging from 4-26 weeks.  There are lots of locations and specialties available and the pay is competitive.  Also, lodging and travel are often included in the pay.  What an absolutely fabulous way to see the country, feel a sense of adventure all while pursuing and growing in your career.

Now, obviously, I am not going to pack up the mini van and take off to California for the rest of this horrid Maine winter (see ya, Sweetie!) but if what a fantastic opportunity.  I really wish I had done something like this when I was younger.  Helping people around the country...what an adventure!  If you are looking for something fun and rewarding, what are you waiting for?  Click and read about getting started! Pin It

Ocean Spray Fruit Flavored Snacks....R&G!

In our home, one of the kid's favorite snacks are "fruit snacks".  You know the ones....fruity gummies that come in little packets.  These are a quick, easy, treat snack and have actually saved me from many a meltdown in line at the grocery store!  The only problem with many of these type of snacks is that there is not a lot to them besides sugar.  When I received the opportunity to try out Ocean Spray's new Fruit Flavored Snacks I was excited to give them a shot.  Ocean Spray is a name I know and trust and their version of our "go to" Fruit Snacks also had this going for them that many other brands do not...

†Made with real fruit juice and natural colors* and flavors.

80 calories, gluten free and contain 100% of the Daily Value of Vitamin C.

Available with year round Double Box Tops.

Great, right?  I really love the REAL fruit juice part and the 100% of Vitamin C.  It makes me feel good to give the kids something they enjoy while also giving them something that has nutritional value! 

When our box of Ocean Spray Fruit Snacks arrived the kids went crazy.  They could not wait to try out these new snacks!  We opend the assorted fruit flavor first and the kids LOVED them.  Ok, I did too!  They are nice and chewy (not hard like some other brands) and the taste is fruity and not overly sweet.  Later in the day when we tried the berries and cherries flavor we were just as impressed by the taste.  I think we would be all hard pressed to choose a favorite of the two brands.

We are HUGE fans of Ocean Spary Fruit Snacks over here at Reviewed by Mom!  The taste and texture are outstanding and I fell good about that boost of Vitamin C!.  These are great to tuck into your purse or diaper bag for quick snacks....not only for the kids but for moms too!!

SAVE:  Click HERE to print a coupon for $1.10 off two boxes of Ocean Spray Fruit Flavored Snacks!

WIN:  I am so pleased to tell you that FOUR lucky RBM readers will win a prize pack featuring 6 boxes of Ocean Spray's Fruit Flavored Snacks (3 boxes of each flavor!!). 

Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

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Colortime Crafts & Markers....Deal Alert & Facebook Giveaway!

Looking for a fun craft on these blustery winter days?  Check out Colortime Crafts and Markers.  This cool company sells things like tote bags, t-shirts, bandanas, pillowcases and more along with fabric markers for your child to personalize and decorate them!  I love this idea!  How cute would a set of pillowcases be for a slumber party.  Genius!

Visit the company here where you can find the full variety of products.

DEAL ALERT:  Enter FRSH11W to receive free shipping on orders over $60 until March 4, 2012!

The company is also holding weekly Facebook giveaways for their fans.  Here are the details...

Each week Colortime Crafts and Markers will randomly draw 3 lucky FANS who will receive a special craft package, which includes a Colortime color-your-own "Recycle Tote Bag" and three special permanent Colortime FABRIC MARKERS. All you have to do to be eligible is to "like" and become a fan of Colortime Crafts and Markers on Facebook.

The winners' Facebook name will be posted each Monday on the Colortime Crafts and Markers Facebook page. We will send you a message on Facebook informing you that you won. Look for it, and if your name is a winner, you can also send us an email message to info@colortime.com with your full name and address and in either case we will ship your prize within 2 weeks.

Find Colortime Crafts on FACEBOOK HERE. Pin It

Let's Go Chipper....App out Now!

I am a big fan of learning apps for children.  I have just jumped on the technology bandwagon (I am a late bloomer when it comes to all that!!) and our family just got an iPad.  I was blown away by how much we can do with it.  I knew my husband and I would find it useful (and fun!!) but I did not know there were so many options for children as well.    I recently had the opportunity to check out a new app called Let's Go Chipper and it is great for the younger set!  Here is the scoop...

 Chipper is the conscientious ambassador of the great outdoors for children 2-8 and playfully teaches good character and a love for the environment through an immersive and interactive play land filled with games, nature-inspired movies, music videos, and eReaders. The award-winning all-inclusive app is a virtual path to the parks; from adventures under the sea with Sally the Salmon to a silly and slimy game of hide-and-seek with Bruce the Banana Slug, the eco-educational lessons are delivered playfully and include a what-did-you-learn section to help reinforce messages. Each story takes Chipper on an adventure into the great outdoors to visit a new habitat and animal indigenous to the area.
The APP acts as a portal to content with which parents will want their children to engage. The all inclusive app download includes an award-winning eco-educational animated movie, an animated book, two music videos, and a coloring pack. The 30-minute Let’s Go Chipper! movie introduces children to camping, hiking, and outdoor adventures by way of age-appropriate music, mishap and humor and provides a first level understanding for respecting the environment. Throughout the app, children can interactive with tap and color pages featuring images from the books and movies.

In addition to the continuous release of new “appisodes," IAGmedia, Inc. provides physical books such as the most recent release Helping Hands, a colorful, rhyme-filled story that playfully encourages children to help in their home, community, and world. “We are excited to transition our conscientious media to the APP and provide positive entertainment for children while educating and instilling social skills at the same time,” says company founder Stephanie Rach-Wilson. “We offer physical books for free with downloads as well to keep the experience of truly turning the page available at this very important age.”

Bringing the series to fruition has been a life-long experience for Ms. Rach-Wilson as she is a child of get-out-and-play parents and grew up raising animals while tending to the organic garden her parents kept. “Our goal is to excite the curiosity in children which has been stifled with busy schedules and parents worried about what can go wrong instead of all that is right about just letting go and playing in nature,” says Ms. Rach Wilson.

IAGmedia, Inc. also has a DVD/CD compilation from the Let’s Go Chipper! series called Into The Great Outdoors available at Barnes & Noble stores and specialty retail throughout the country. And to help kids earn their wings, the Get Ready to Fly! Activity Set is complete with a story & activity book, crayons, and plush pillow backpack wrapped in a reusable tote. The product complements the Let’s Fly app, currently available on iTunes.

What do I think?  Love it!  There are many apps out there which are just for play (which is ok SOMETIMES) and there are lots of apps out there with a strong focus on math and reading (obviously a great thing!) but there is not a lot out there addressing the things that Let's Go Chipper does.  Chipper is a charming teacher when it comes to the environment and my kids are having lots of fun learning along with him.  I would highly recommend this easy to use app for children as young as two.  It is technology you can feel good about sharing with your child.  Enjoy!

 

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Credit Scores, House Hunting & Mortgages....Oh My!

I think I have mentioned we have been on a house hunt here at Reviewed by Mom.  We have been in our current home for more than 10 years so I am a little rusty in this whole process (cleaning out, credit report, mortgages).  First of all, we have a ton of stuff!!  How on earth did this happen??  I would not necessarily call myself a pack rat but, well, maybe I am kind of a  pack rat!  Things certainly have a way of accumulating especially once children enter the scene.  It has been quite a process going through all the boxes of toys, clothes and mementos.  It does feel good to let go of "things" though.  Don't get me wrong, I am a sentimental Mama and keep a whole bunch but I don't need EVERYTHING the little darlings have touched (do I???).

Another aspect I was rusty on was the financial portion.  I actually worked in a real estate title company for 9 years but even with my background I needed some refreshing on this part!  Obviously I knew our financial house had to be in order but I forgot some of the details!  Right of the bat we looked online to get our free credit score to make sure there was nothing dismal there.  Then we shopped for a lender for our mortgage, moving companies for our stuff and a real estate agent who could help us sell our home quickly.  Holy cow!  I definitely took it for granted how much easier it was to do all this without three little side kicks especially when it came to cleaning and organizing our home.  Good thing I like a good challenge! Pin It

Tangled Ever After....Watch it Now!

Have you all made it out to see Beauty and The Beast 3-D yet?? I can't wait to check it out! I love that movie and I am excited to see it in 3-D! Did you know there is a short airing before the show called Tangled Ever After? Tangled is one of my all time favorite movies to watch with the kids and I am so excited to see this short...how fun! Here is a little taste of what you will catch at the theaters....Enjoy! Pin It

Gun Games by Faye Kellerman...R&G!

As you all know, I am a bookworm.  I have always been a bookworm and the love of books is something my parents instilled in me and that I am so thankful for.  As a young adult and adult I mostly gravitated toward fiction and literature.  My father introduced me to one of his favorite authors back in the 90's and I decided to read the book to humor him (I was a Daddy's girl and was always happy to find some new common ground with him).  The book was a mystery which was not my usual genre written by an author by the name of Faye Kellerman.  Well, after the first few pages of that book my father handed me, I could not read fast enough. 

I loved Kellerman's style and found her writing to be smart, witty and the characters to be engaging (she mostly writes about a certain detective and his family).  I was a new fan of mysteries, namely Faye Kellerman, and my dad and I would read and discuss her books as soon as we could get our hands on the new ones.  When my dad passed away right before the twins were born one of the toughest things for me was not having my "go to" person to discuss books with.  I truly missed (and still do!) sharing that with him.  When I received an e-mail last month asking me if I wanted to review Faye Kellerman's brand new release, Gun Games (out this month).  I could not say yes fast enough.  Faye Kellerman, who my dad adored and who hooked me on her marvelous way with mysteries?  Sign me up!  Here is a synopsis of what had me up way to late reading this past weekend...

Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus are back in this gripping mystery involving a secret cabal of some of Los Angeles’ most wealthy—and vicious—teens.
LAPD lieutenant detective Decker and his wife, Rina, have willingly welcomed fifteen-year-old Gabriel Whitman, the son of a troubled former friend, into their home. While the enigmatic teen seems to be adapting easily, Decker knows only too well the secrets adolescents keep—witnessed by the tragic suicide of another teen, Gregory Hesse, a student at Bell and Wakefield, one of the city’s most exclusive prep schools.

Gregory’s mother, Wendy, refuses to believe her son shot himself and convinces Decker to look deeper. What he finds disturbs him. The gun used in the tragedy was stolen—evidence that propels him to launch a full investigation with his trusted team, Sergeant Marge Dunn and Detective Scott Oliver. But the case becomes darkly complicated by the suicide of another Bell and Wakefield student—a death that leads them to uncover an especially nasty group of rich and privileged students with a predilection for guns and violence. Decker thought he understood kids, yet the closer he and his team get to the truth, the clearer it becomes that he knows very little about them, including his own charge, Gabe. The son of a gangster and an absent parent, the boy has had a life filled with too much free time, too many unexplained absences, and too little adult supervision.

Before it’s over, the case and all its terrifying ramifications will take Decker and his detectives down a dark alley of twisted allegiances and unholy alliances, culminating at a heart-stopping point of no return.

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Oh.My. Goodness. This book was gripping, can't put down material.    First of all, I was thrilled to see characters from one of Kellerman's earlier books featured.  I don't want to give it away but it featured one of (in my opinion) Kellerman's more memorable characters from the past.  The story line was exciting with twists and turns throughout.  Even toward the end when I thought I had it all figured out, Kellerman kept me guessing with another twist I never saw coming.  The crime and excitement is nicely balanced with the real lives of Peter Decker and his family which gives the book lots of great depth.  As you can tell, I adored this book!  I would highly recommend to not only faithful Faye Kellerman readers but also people who have never read her books or the series.  This was a perfect winter weekend escape for me!  A bit of warning though...once you read this one you will want to read the entire Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series and I can't be repsonsible for your loss of productivity at home and work (although I will take credit for the pleasure of escapism!).  Thank you Faye Kellerman for once again writing a book that kept me on at the edge of my seat from beginning until the end.  Bravo!  Pick up your copy today on Amazon...


I am so pleased to tell you that the publisher is giving one lucky RBM reader a copy of Gun Games by Faye Kellerman!  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

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Winter Blues? Try Some Smurf Spaghetti!

As you all know we are Mainers here at Reviewed by Mom.  This means looooong winters in which I have to get pretty creative in my quest to amuse the kids.  I thought I would post some of our activities here every now and then.  I am thinking some of you all might be looking for ways to amuse bored children from time to time!

I have recently seen some fun ideas on Pinterest (if you do not have an invite yet to the site e-mail me at reviewedbymom@hotmail.com and I will send you one!) for dyeing pasta.  We had great fun the other day dyeing spiral and regular spaghetti pasta for upcoming crafts.  It is easy as can be and not only is it great for crafts, this particular recipe is completely edible!  Here is how we customized our own pasta dyeing factory....

Supplies:  Food Coloring, Pasta (we used spiral and straight but any kind will do!), white vinegar, plastic bags.

Directions:  Fill a bag with spaghetti and add apx. 1 tsp of white vinegar (just enough to barely coat the pasta).  Add drops of desired color of food coloring and tightly seal the bag.  Have your child lightly roll and massage the pasta about in the bag which will coat the pasta with color (my kids LOVED this part!).  Get creative with amounts of food coloring.  Obviously more will create more vivid colors but if you add just a few drops you can get some cool multi colored strands...almost tie dyed...

Let the pasta dry for at least a couple of hours (we left ours until the next day).

I saved some of the uncooked pasta for craft projects later on but we could not resist cooking some of the blue spaghetti strands.  We dubbed this "Smurf Spaghetti".  I was concerned there would be vinegar smell but it cooked right off and it was so much fun for the kids to eat.  I definitely did not have to plead with them to eat lunch!  How fun is this???

Stay tuned for what we do with our leftover uncooked pasta.  I am thinking some fun collages are in our future!

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