Sugar Free Gummy Snacks with a #GummyBearMold

I recently wrote about taking sugar away from my kids and the difficulty with different holidays and this dietary change. Not only is it difficult to find sugar-free things that are the equivalent to the stuff kids find, it is hard to find holiday-specific sugar-free candy. We have bought one small chocolate Santa for each kid and a "candy cane" of small resees cups. Every once in a while, they get a "fun-sized" candy bar as a treat, so these will be appropriate.

The other difficulty is that my kids LOVE gummy snacks. That is their favorite treat ever and we usually get them the character ones (Spiderman for Tbomb and Hello Kitty for Kodabug) for their stockings, easter baskets, and to trade out Halloween candy they can't have. Well, they haven't gotten gummy snacks since we took sugar, so I have been trying to figure out how to make them. I have tried a few things. Most haven't worked, but I still have recipes to go. One I will share didn't work for me, but may for other people.

I like that you can even crush vitamin c tablets up and add them in for even more healthy stuff!

1. Use less cold water (one-half cup or less) with Jello. I tried this, but it didn't work for me. However, I tried it with sugar free soda instead of water.

2. A Rainbow of Healthy Homemade Gummy Snacks made with fruits and vegetables from Modern Parents Messy Kids.

3. Gummy Fruit Sancks made with berries, applesauce, fruit juice and gelatin from All Day I Dream About Food.

4. Homemade Gummy Worms from Mr. Food. I really like this recipe but like the idea of pouring them into straws better than cutting.

5. Here is a whole Pinterest topic on homemade gummy bears.

I would love to hear any recipes you have tried that work. I am determined to find a recipe that is easy, healthy, sugar-free and will allow me to make them in adorable molds, like our new Gummy Bear Mold. These recipes are next on our list and when I find one that works, I will share.

Gummy Bear Mold

Disclaimer: I received a product to review. All opinions are my own. 

Since we went sugar-free with the kids, I have been collecting different baking items to make fun things for the kids since their off the shelf items are limited. Some things include items to make putting their yogurt (flavored by mom) and applesauce into individual packages easier, small bowls for individual portions of Jell-O and pudding, and even silicone cupcake liners. These things make life easier when making homemade snacks, but they do not compare to the special snacks kids get, like gummy bears, goldfish, and teddy graham. 

Recently, I had the chance to try out this gummy bear mold ($10.99 on Amazon) from Status Kitchen, and I fell in love. With this mold, you can make 50 gummy bears or even chocolate bears. Whatever your heart desires to be molded can be! When you purchase, they even send you a PDF with recipes. I love the syringe. If you have ever tried to pour a mixture into molds, you will understand why I love it so much- it makes life so much easier.  

It is made out of high-grade silicone that is FDA approved. This makes it safe for kids and durable. 

MAKE SUPER CUTE PERFECT SIZED GUMMY BEARS JUST LIKE HARIBO'S AT HOME - Status Kitchen bear mold will make you 50 quick and easy bite size treats. As a guide your mini bears will be the same size as standard gummy bears in packets (Just like Haribo size) but much better because you made them yourself! Have fun in the kitchen with your family making sweet or sour gummies, mini chocolate bears or even halal gummy bears.... The options are endless. You can especially use our 50 cavity bear mold to sneak those vitamins in to your children's treats. Just buying one or two silicone gummy bear mold trays from Status Kitchen allows you a perfect opportunity to make multiple bite size healthy low sugar treats for the kiddies or indeed yourself! And it's so easy to do too!

This is definitely my favorite item since collecting things to make special treats for the kids. Next up- When I make fudge Christmas Eve, I'll pour some in this mold and the kids can have some, but it will be much easier to control how much they get!

10 Tips for Purging and Organizing Books

Disclaimer: This is part of a sponsored campaign for CoffeeBean Press. All opinions and ideas are my own.

I'm sure you are like me- the books are in stacks everywhere because the bookshelves are full. Before I moved in with the Mr, I did some serious purging of books. I had 3 bookshelves full, as well as several stacks all over the house and stacked on end tables. It was crazy, of course- I was managing a bookstore at the time. Now, the over-abundance is in the kids' books. There are books everywhere. It is getting hard to handle. There are holiday books, school books, books that aren't read, art books, and more. It is time to do some purging. Here are 10 tips for purging and organizing books (what I've been doing the last couple of weeks.)

1. Get all the books in one place. Seriously, get them off the shelves and in piles on the floor or on the table. You can really see what you have and you will know what is read of that group.

2. Decide what you definitely do not need to keep. Look through the piles you have around and pull out the books that you immediately know can go. These may be paperbacks you will never read again, books that weren't all that good, or ones your kids have grown out of. You will find more to be rid of once you start sorting.

3. Find places to donate to. As I sort the kids' books, I will send them to a friend of mine that works with special needs kids. They will be used and loved by these kids. Check with children's homes, victim advocate organizations, and even the libraries to see if they could use the books. There may be a family in your area that cannot afford books, but would love to have them.

4. The books you want to sell- put in a stack and decide where you want to sell them- Amazon, Ebay, local booksellers, etc. There are many places to sell them that will be pretty simple.

5. When you start putting books back on the shelves, seperate them into what they are first- educational books for kids, educational for grown ups, easy read, fiction, etc. This will make organization much simpler.

6. Consider putting baskets around the house for books. My aunt does this and switches them out. There is a basket in every place the kids spend a lot of time- even the car. These get switched out periodically and the kids want to read them because they see them.

7. Consider putting holiday books with the decor for that holiday. We are starting that with Christmas books this year because we are out of space in the bookshelves- moving those 50 (kidding- not!) books off the shelves and into storage for next year will free up a lot of space for new books (like what they are getting for Christmas).

8. Do you have a ton of board books? We do! These take up a lot of shelf real estate, but space that could be used for bigger books. I put these in collapsible bins and pull out a bin a week- these are what Kodabug "reads" during school.

9. Decide how to organize your shelves. You can organize by subject, alphabetically, by family member, or any other way that works for you. When we organize our shchool shelf, we do it a little different. These are the sections- Kodabug school, curriculum/ teacher aids, science, reading/ read aloud, easy read, art, fun, and future. The important thing is now how you organize it- it is that it is organized to work or your family.

10 Do not put a book back on your shelf unless you are sure you will read it again. I keep a shopping bag for books to give away. When I see family or the tea- I can let them peruse them for things they will read. I can also keep the books I want to donate for kids seperated that way.

Do you have tips for purging/ organizing books? I would love to know about them.

The Perfect Wine to Bring to a Holiday Gathering: It's All About the Food

by Paula Moulton

I became infamous at Le Cordon Bleu in France (at least in my own mind) on a relatively quiet and peaceful classroom day of wine tasting. I am on stage but the theater is a dimly lit classroom in the 15th Arrondissement of Paris and I am an American widow with three grown children wearing a uniform that matches my nine other youthful women classmates. Can I succeed at performing the international protocols of a flawless 7-minute wine analysis that ends with a perfect food and wine pairing while standing in front of my peers, professor and the man from Margaux?

With a grimace and a bit of pride, I always think back to this life-changing moment in the spring of 2012 when I was preparing for intensive wine exams. After studying ten months in Paris at Le Cordon Bleu's first year of wine management, I still had my doubts about performing the 7-minute wine analysis and, if given the choice, would rather have performed the 7-minute AB workout even if it entailed wearing my spandex shorts in front of my other twenty classmates.

My classmates snickered, but I think they were secretly happy that I broke the traditional standards of food and wine pairing that day. It certainly opened the doors to the steps I follow when it comes to choosing the perfect wine for holiday gatherings.

The internationally accepted rules of a wine tasting analysis chronicle in detail the visuel, or visual; olfactif or aromatic; and gustatif or taste of a particular wine, analyzing the future of the wine in terms of age, serving temperature, whether to carafe or decant, and finally, what dish to pair with the wine—all in 7-minutes or less. And the key ends with unlocking the door to choosing the correct wine for your meal.

I hold the glass of 2009 Chateau Kirwan Bordeaux in my hand like a singer ready to begin a melody. “This bouncy and forward 2009 Bordeaux from Chateau Kirwan, which is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon blended with Merlot, Petite Verdot, and Cabernet Franc,” I exclaim, “could be paired with a lovely garlic-rubbed grilled leg of lamb served with roasted rosemary potatoes and sautéed green beans with toasted pine nuts . . .”

Monsieur Professor is proudly smiling at me and begins to clap with my other nineteen classmates and the man from Margaux.

“Or,” I sheepishly announce over the first seconds of applause, “it could be paired with a thin-crusted pizza covered with caramelized onions, crispy pancetta, sautéed shitake mushrooms, and Gorgonzola cheese.”

The clapping stops abruptly, “Why you do that!” Monsieur Professor shouts at me after my offbeat pairing suggestion. “You just gave perfect wine analysis and then ruined it by your food pairing . . . pizza, mon Dieu, not with Chateau Kirwan from Margaux!”

I genuinely want that bottle of Chateau Kirwan from Margaux with pizza. Ce n'est pas chouette (that's not cool) for a traditional French food and wine pairing but for me, an American, it is.

I suggest using my basic pairing principles—that so abruptly disturbed my French classroom that day—to explore and have fun with food and wine pairings during the holidays. By matching a wine that’s either similar or opposite to the dish or ingredients being served, you can produce delectable and unique pairings. It's all about the personal adventure when it comes to food and wine pairing.

I pair wine using a simple technique that I learned from a famous sommelier in France. "Wine pairing should be looked at like we look at couples,” he shared. “There are two types of couples in this world. There are the couples who are similar to one another and make each other whole almost like being one person and then there are the couples who are completely opposite and one would never put them together."

Yet both couples work together and form a powerful bond...

1. Is this wine similar to the dish?
Ex: A heavy beef stew with lots of pepper and bay leaves would have flavors similar to a peppery, earthy red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a spicy Pinot Noir. The bold aromas and flavors of the wine are similar to the strong and spicy ingredients in the stew.

2. Is this wine opposite to the dish?
Ex: A creamy white sauce over pasta would pair well with a nice Sauvignon Blanc. Why?
The acidity in the wine is opposite from the creamy, smooth sauce and actually subdues and balances both flavors.

In pairing traditional holiday dishes, use the basic concepts above (try on your own first) and if you get stumped here are some cheat notes:

• Turkey (Dark Meat): Merlot, Zinfandel 
• Turkey (Light Meat) Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Viognier 
• Chicken: Beaujolais, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Rioja 
• Lamb: Bordeaux Blend, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot 
• Salmon/Seafood/Shellfish: Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir 
• Pizza: Bordeaux Blend, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc 
• Macaroni & Cheese: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Rioja 
• Hamburgers: Merlot, Rose, Zinfandel, Syrah 

Be bold, brave and thankful that your pick does not include the man from Margaux. Simply take that adventurous wine leap believing that your personal palate will always catch you. And even if your palate fails you with the hours of thought you put into that special holiday food and wine pairing, who cares, try again later. Toss out the old ideas about failure and embrace it as your best friend because, when it comes to wine, there is always another chance to get creative with another, even more, provocative pairing.

A viticulturist, award-winning winemaker, and published author with over 25 years of experience in the wine industry, Paula Moulton has worked with wine talents such as Joel Peterson of Ravenswood Winery, Mike Benziger of Benziger Family Winery, and Jean-Luc Thunevin (Bordeaux's Bad Boy wine). She has appeared on the Today Show, CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX, CRN, and other major media outlets as an author and wine industry leader. Moulton holds a BA from U. C. Berkeley in Rhetoric, an AS in viticulture from Santa Rosa Junior College, and a Wine Management degree from Le Cordon Bleu, Paris, France. Learn more about Moulton at www.paulamoulton.com.

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Save the Date: Veterans Patriot Action Conference Announced For February 2016

Charleston, South Carolina will host the first-ever Veterans Patriot Action Conference (VPAC) to educate, equip and mobilize the veteran community for political action in the coming election year.

This special veterans-centered event will not only offer Vets in the Fight — a robust "Get Out The Vote" educational program led by some of the nation's foremost experts on campaign strategy at the local, state and federal levels — VPAC's presidential forum will provide our men and women in uniform, along with their spouses, a unique opportunity to meet presidential candidates from both parties firsthand.

The 2016 Election is a tremendous opportunity for Veterans to become influencers in the political process to select the next Commander-in-Chief and defend the Republic.

The event will be hosted at Charleston's Embassy Suites (map) on February 18 and 19, 2016 just prior to the South Carolina Presidential Primary. All veterans and their spouses are welcome.

Tickets available here.

Conference website: veteransconference.com

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31 Monogramming Tips & Ideas #31Gifts

By now, I'm sure that you have all figured out that I am pretty much in love with Thirty-One Gifts. I love the products, the versatility, the durability, the fabrics, and especially the embroidery. I mean- seriously, what is more southern than monogramming. (Of course, except sitting under a magnolia tree with a glass of sweet tea. However, it is December in the mountains of South Carolina, so that is just not going to happen).

My monogrammed items from Thirty-One can be used anytime, but they have me itching to pack up the kids for summer adventures. I just realized though that my Large Utility Tote will be perfect for picking up packages while I run some errands and it will definitely be admired, especially that gold "G" on it. That got me thinking- I need to share some monogramming tips and ideas with y'all! So, here goes!

1. Remember that classic is timeless. When having something monogrammed, especially for a gift, think of the classic styles that will remain in style for years to come.

2. Make sure to get the initials right. I have made the mistake before of monogramming a gift with a lady's maiden name (first initial, maiden initial, last initial) only to find out that she dropped her maiden name and uses her middle birth name. Some people who go by their middle name even drop their first name. Even if you have to ask a family member, be sure to get this right before monogramming. If in doubt- monogram only one initial (first or last).

3. Is there a specific use or the item being monogrammed/ embroidered? Consider putting that on it. or instance: Presents!, Stuff, Laundry, Sports, or having a team name/ mascot embroidered.

4. Although almost anything can be monogrammed, it is important to think about its intended purpose and visibility. You are going to want to choose an item the receiver will want to show off, as well as one that will last for years to come.

5. With a Traditional Monogram, the middle letter (the last name of the person) is LARGER and in the center.  It is flanked by two smaller letters representing the first name on the left and either the middle or maiden name on the right.  Traditional Monograms are usually used for women or couples.

6. With a Block Monogram, all the letters are the SAME size.  Block Monograms are usually used for men.  However, you can most definitely use block monograms for women.

7. Couple’s Monogram: Traditionally when the bride takes the groom’s last name, the monogram is Bride’s First Name, Common Last Name, Groom’s First Name. If you are undecided, just monogram the last initial- for a simple and sophisticated gift.

8. When monogramming a single initial, men would generally receive their last name. However, if the woman is single, use her first initial. If she is married, use either. If it is for a couple, be sure to use the last initial.

9. For a newly engaged couple, Mr. & Mrs. is always an excellent choice.

10. Last names also make great monogramming picks, especially for household items- for a couple. It is generally not a good idea to monogram a last name for a single lady.

11. Sometimes a couple will want to merge their last names when they get married. For example, if Chris Smith and Jennifer Brown are to be married and they want their last name to be Smith-Brown, their initials could be monogrammed as JSBC.

12. Does the person you are giving the gift to belong to a special team or organization close to their heart? Have the name of the organization/ team embroidered on it. For instance, I have a gorgeous LUT with Carolina Cryptid Crew embroidered on it.

13. Are you embroidering for a child? For safety purposes, stick with either the first initial for items being worn in public. For items that will be used in a room, you can use the whole first name. I have seen many people have their kids first names embroidered on a backpack, and this is not good- it puts them at risk.

14. For a baby- think first name or first initial (except for those items seen in public) Adding in the birthdate is a good idea as well- adds a little touch of memorabilia.

15. Do you have an aunt, grandma, or friend that does embroidery by hand? For a graduation or wedding gift, hand embroidered items make exceptional gifts- especially for napkins, wedding handkerchiefs, and doilies.

16. Have a look at all of the monogramming styles available to get one that really speaks to the receiver's personality.

17. When you do choose a style, look at the letters you will be using close in that style to make sure they look good together, especially when using J and I together.

18. When in doubt, ask! You don't have to give the gift idea away, but if you aren't sure how someone would like their monogram, don't hesitate to ask them!

19. Looking for a gift for a college student? Think about buying a school sweatshirt and having their monogram put on the breast area or on the sleeve.

20. Monogramming a gift for a couple? Consider a layered look like this one found on pinterest.

21. Consider adding an icon that is close to their heart. For instance, my mom has always had anchors put on things for me because I'm from the coast and it will always root me in one way or another. 

22. Looking for ideas to have embroidered? Consider an umbrella, since they are often lost- this will help enable safe return. 

23. Think of the small touches that can be added to items, like phone home screen button, the tongues of shoes, and even the cuff of a shirt. 

24. What are the recipient's hobbies? Do they camp or go to the beach a lot? Consider a beach chair with monogramming. 

25. What goes better with monogramming than mason jars, bows, and pearls? Consider this when giving gifts. 

26. Looking to monogram an item for a child? Consider a stuffed animal's ear or a blanket. 

27. Need a graduation gift for a graduate? Consider having their cap monogrammed. 

28. Travel accessories are great things to monogram- monogrammed items ae less likely to be stolen, and more likely to be returned. 

29. Looking for a gift for a new home? Consider a house number plaque or mailbox cover that has the family monogram on it with the number. 

30. Consider their occupation. Have something monogrammed they can use for work- a badge holder is perfect!

31. Not sure what to gift? Consider a monogram sticker that they can attach to their car or other item of choice!

Looking for more ideas? Check out my "Keeping My Southern Charm" Pinterest Board. 

Follow Cari George (The Palmetto Queen/ CariOnMedia/ ParaSass)'s board Keeping My Southern Charm (Etiquette) on Pinterest.

Book Review: If He Had Not Come

Disclaimer: I received a book to review. All opinions are my own.

With so much commercialism present in the world, Christmas time becomes about the stress, gift-giving, shoppings, sales, decorations, and even volunteering. The simple fact is that those things are not what matter. There is one thing that matters this time of year, and that is that God sent his only Son to us as the ultimate gift. Even Christian families get swept up in the hustle and bustle of it all and forget this.

If He Had Not Come (Story by Nan F. Weeks, reintroduction by David Nicholson) aims to bring us back to the true meaning of Christmas. It has an "It's A Wonderful Life," type of feel to it, but focusing on the coming of Jesus. Nicholson has written a new version of the classic story from the '30s aimed at the younger generation, urging them to really understand the story. Follow along and find out what it would be like if Jesus had never come to earth. Through an eye-opening, somewhat bewildering dream, a young boy discovers some of the enormous changes the world would face if Jesus had never come to Earth.

I love this book and will continue to read it to my children every year. Available on Amazon ($3.99 Kindle; $18.99 Hardcover)

Destress This Christmas With Adult Coloring Books

Disclaimer: I was sent products to review. However, All opinions are my own.

This time of year, there is so much stress it almost seems unbearable. As the day after Christmas approaches the country releases a collective sigh that the only things left to do are pack up Christmas, return gifts, and get back into a normal routine. Our schedule is especially out of whack becuase homeschool is all over the place and we are out and about more than usual. With all this, there is the additional stress of these horrible colds the kids are finally getting over. So- lets just say that stress has become normal for this holiday season. I am not a fan of stress this time of year- there is a reason I no longer work retail, so I have been trying to find ways of destressing. I finally found the solution and it is amazing- Adult Coloring Books.

There is a wide range of titles available- there is sure to be something available for you and everyoe on your list.

Tangled Treasures Coloring Book by Jane Monk - The soothing flow of tangling plus the meditative action of coloring makes this book a treat.

100 Things to Draw with a Triangle by Sarah Walsh - Think of all the possibilities! Stars, snowflakes, trees, gifts and more! Doodle your way to holiday spirit with Sara Walsh (Just Add Color: Circus, Day of the Dead, Carnival).

Doodling for Tree Huggers and Nature Lovers by Gemma Correll - Doodling is for everyone, and we mean everyone! Know a nature lover? This sassy draw-in journal is great for those who get creative in the great wide open.

Change Your Life One Doodle at a Time by Salli S. Swindell - Change is excitement. Change is surprise. Change is progress. Change is the thrill that comes from something new. Making small changes through this doodle journal can help you become happier and more confident.

Color Me Stress-Free / Color Me Calm by Lacy Mucklow and Angela Porter - These books examine the benefits of putting pencil (or crayon, marker, and ink) to paper and offers adults an opportunity to channel their anxiety into satisfying, creative accomplishment.

Portable Color Me Calm / Portable Color Me Happy by Lacy Mucklow and Angela Porter - The international bestselling series now in a smaller, portable package. Bring it with you on a plane when traveling for the holidays. Makes a perfect small gift for any night and fits right inside a stocking!

20 Ways to Draw a Star by Studio SSS - This motivational practice book provides a new take on the world of sketching, doodling, and designing. Take a step-back and think about all the different ways to draw something. Open your mind to the possibilities and differences in everyday objects. Get out your favorite drawing tool, and remember, there are not just 20 Ways to Draw a Star!

Doodling for Bookworms by Gemma Correll - Of course you know someone who loves to unwind by the fire, relaxing with a cup of tea and a good book. Jumpstart the creativity of your favorite book nerd and give them this great activity book filled with Shakespeare, George Orwell, and Jane Austen.

Tangled Gardens Coloring Book by Jane Monk - If the snow and cold stress you out, cozy up to Jane Monk's Tangled Gardens. Use your brightest pigments to create a warm and inviting garden while you wait for spring to return.

10 Ways to Repurpose Changing Mats

The babies are growing up and there are good sides and bittersweet sides to this. One of the biggest changes is switching "gear" up. We no longer need all the baby stuff we have accumulated over the past 5 years with both babies. Since there are no more to come for us, we can finally get rid of it all. While a lot of it, I'm waiting for someone who needs it to come along, a lot of it I will sell, donate or repurpose. One of those items is the changing mats. We have a ton of these left and I have found many purposes for them and continue to find more.

Here are some ways I have found to repurpose changing mats:

1. Play-Doh Mat: Play-Doh makes messes- that is just a fact of life and depending on where it is being used, the mess can be difficult to clean. I now use a changing mat with a plastic back for Tbomb to play on. It wipes clean and is large enough to keep it all contained.

2. Chair Cover: I like to use these to put in the dining room chairs (and I take them to other people's homes) to protect the chairs from rouge pieces of food. Kids can't always control where it goes.

3. Nap Mat: Because they are padded, these make perfect nap mats for little ones, especially when they are potty training.

4. Table Protector: They protect surfaces perfectly during art projects. If your kids like to paint, don't worry about making sure you nave newspaper on hand to put down, these mats work perfectsly (for dying eggs too!)

5. Place Mat: Does your little one like to spread out while eating like mine does? A regular place mat doesn't cover too well, so these changing mats are perfect!

6. Wet Clothes Changing Pad: Going to the beach or pool? Pack one of these in the bag and use it when you change your little one out of their wet clothes. It will protect your car surfaces from getting wet. They worked perfect to protect the bed when we were on vacation- we just put it down and changed Kodabug. No wet sheets on the bed.

7. Car Seat Protector: Looking to protect the car seats from the kid seats. They do make horrible indents and kids drop stuff a lot- especially food and cups. Line these up on the seat and then put in the car seats- perfect protection!

8. Large Trivet: Having a big meal and need more trivets than you usually keep on hand? Keep a couple of changing pads on hand and use them for several dishes at once! Works great for hot dishes and cold ones that may sweat.

9. Stroller Pad: I put a changing pad in the stroller when Kodabug is going to be in it more than usual because those umbrella strollers don't have much padding and can't be that comfy. It is going to work perectly as we potty train too- just in case.

10. Decor: Do you have changing pads that have pretty prints on them? Make pillows, coasters, and other decor items out of them. Would be great for pillows in your little one's room.

Do you have ideas on how to repurpose changeing mats? I would love to hear about them.

Five Reasons to Consider a Military Academy for High School

By Theresa Anzaldua

Most people don’t give military academies much thought when making plans for their children’s high school education. Less than one percent of U.S. citizens currently serve in the armed forces, according to Pew Research, The New York Times and countless other sources, so not many people think in terms of the military as a part of their own lives. Attending high school at a military academy, however, could be an excellent opportunity for an intelligent, college-bound child, whether or not a career in the service is a possibility. Parents may want to take a look at some of the approximately thirty high-school military academies across the country. Here are five reasons why.

1. Military academies are not for troubled kids – in fact, just the opposite is true. We’ve all heard of kids with behavioral problems being sent off to military based schools to learn discipline. Military based schools for troubled children differ from military academies, which are college prep schools for motivated students. Military academies are not a good fit for troubled children because they don’t provide psychological or behavioral therapy for kids, according to The Aspen Education Group, a national provider of education and therapy for children with academic, behavioral, emotional or substance abuse problems. According to Aspen, sending a challenged kid to a military academy is like putting a bandage on a struggling child’s problems. The discipline at the academy might help the child for a while, but eventually, without therapy, the child’s problems will resurface. Well-adjusted, motivated children who enjoy a structured environment are the best fit for military academies, the Aspen Education Group explains.

2. The leadership skills acquired in military training are unparalleled. Military academies provide the same kind of leadership training found in the U.S. armed forces, and this kind of training cannot be found anywhere else, according to “Why the Military Provides Great Leaders,” by Tom Kolditz (The Harvard Business Review, Feb. 6, 2015). According to Kovitz, in the military leadership is taught in a carefully planned, methodical way. This kind of leadership training cannot be found in a corporate setting or elsewhere in the government. The reason, Kovitz explains, is simple. Military leaders must do more than motivate people – they have to inspire them. They must lead people into battle, asking them to risk their lives. This kind of inspirational leadership is taught at military academies, and it’s a strong factor to consider in choosing a high school for your child. Your child’s leadership potential could be honed to its fullest potential at a military academy.

3. Military academies provide excellent preparation for college. High school students graduating from Wentworth Military Academy and College, located in Lexington, Missouri, have a ninety-five percent college acceptance rate. Wentworth prides itself on offering challenging courses taught by outstanding teachers, exceptional athletic programs for all students, strong role models to show students how to perform to their full potentials, a strongly supervised, safe environment and a diverse community of students from across the country and around the world. Hargrave Military Academy, located in Chatham, Virginia, enjoyed a ninety-nine percent college acceptance rate from 2003 to 2011 and average SAT scores in the 1500’s. These schools are just a few examples of the extensive college prep work that high school students, or cadets, accomplish at military academies. Carson Long Military Institute, located in Bloomfield, Pennsylvania, which has bragged of a one hundred percent college acceptance rate, explains that its students study in a “distraction-free, highly structured atmosphere.” Carson Long also encourages students to be patriotic and maintains as its top priority the goal of graduating “confident young leaders who are prepared for college.”

4. Military academies provide much more than education and military training. A terrific resource for families looking into military academies or other types of boarding schools is The Boarding School Review (boardingschoolreview.com), which explains that in terms of the time allocated to pure academics, military schools are similar to religious-affiliated private schools. At a military school, a cadet will generally spend about ten hours on military training, and at a religion-based school, a student should expect to spend approximately ten hours a week on religious work, according to The Boarding School Review. (If both religious-based and military schools sound appealing, check out the military academies that are affiliated with particular religions.) In addition to academics and ten or so hours per week of military training, students at military academies participate in clubs and are expected to remain physically healthy, active and fit. Military academies place a strong emphasis on physical fitness, requiring all students to participate in athletics and to maintain the type of physical strength and stamina required in the armed forces. As the Marine Military Academy in Harlingen, Texas, notes, scientific research has established a correlation between physical fitness and top academic performance, and in any event, it’s hard to disagree with the notion of encouraging high school kids to be physically fit.

5. Military academies require students to conduct themselves with the utmost integrity and to maintain strong personal values. Trust and integrity are at the core of serving in the armed forces -- one’s life can depend on the work ethic and integrity of one’s fellow service members. Military academies instill strong personal values in their cadets because strong values will be necessary for those who will go on to serve in the armed forces. For instance, the Marine Military Academy (a private school not affiliated with the U.S. Marines) expects its cadets to abide by these three core values. (1) Honor: cadets are held to the highest ethical and moral standards, and respect for others is essential. (2) Courage: cadets must face their fears and overcome them, and they are expected to do what is right regardless of the consequences. (3) Commitment: cadets must strive for excellence and never give up because duty to others is fundamental. The strong personal values expected from the cadets at the Marine Military Academy are indicative of those at other military academies.

If your child is college-bound, patriotic and thrives in a structured setting, a military academy might be the perfect fit for high school.

Theresa Anzaldua is the author of We Had A Job To Do – A Basic History of World War II Through The Eyes Of Those Who Served. She has interviewed dozens of veterans of World War II, all of whom have praised their military training. Learn more at www.theresaanzaldua.com.

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Warm up with hot tub trends for this winter!

(DECEMBER 2015) – There is no better place to unwind and spend some time with friends and family than in a hot tub this winter.

With the winter soon here, it’s the perfect time to relax the body and mind with a new hot tub, and with the rapid advancement of technology, the hot tub experience has become increasingly convenient and beneficial.

“Hot tubs are a great way to escape the colder months,” says Brent Macklin, Co-Founder of Arctic Spas. “With tons of new and innovative features available today, hot tubs have become easier to care for with increasing energy efficiency and more benefits for users. Whether it’s your own backyard oasis for when family and friends visit, or a therapeutic retreat for you, hot tubs offer many benefits no matter the season.”

While new features are constantly being incorporated into the latest hot tub models, Brent Macklin has identified five of the top hot tub trends for the winter of 2015.

Automated Water Treatment – Water treatment does not have to be a burden for hot tub owners. Technology advancements like built-in chlorine generators and automated testing and dosing has made water maintenance convenient and easy. Not only does this automated technology save you time and money, the water quality measurements are displayed in real-time on the controls and through any web-connected device. The hot tub keeps itself clean and safe and you can check the water quality status from anywhere via the internet using your smartphone, tablet or laptop.

Increasing Energy Efficiency – In order to keep energy costs down and minimize your environmental footprint, energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important in hot tub design. Arctic Spas’ innovative built-in, real-time power consumption monitoring allows owners to input their local electricity cost provided on their utility bill, and the hot tub calculates what their hot tub is costing them. Built-in self-diagnostic topside controls that monitor and adjust temperature levels and reliable covers or lids are also key when it comes to preventing heat loss and unnecessary energy use.

Larger Tubs –Having a swimming pool and a hot tub at your home may have previously been seen as a luxury, but with the recent advancements of swim spas, it’s now affordable and convenient. Swim all year, hot tub all year and entertain the kids all year in all weather pools big enough to accommodate family and friends. Two to three times the size of a typical hot tub, all weather pools still have all of the hot tub features plus some of a swimming pool, such as depth and size. They also enable ‘lap swimming’ using counter current jets or tether poles. Some models feature backlit swim up bars, just like tropical resort pools and maybe best of all, the cost to run all weather pools is not much more that a hot tub. Both the Arctic Spa hot tubs and all weather pools cost about $1 per day.

LED Lighting – Colourful lighting can take your hot tub experience to the next level by not only adding visual appeal, but also conveniently illuminating features like drink holders and jets. Lighting options such as Arctic Spas Northern Light system, inspired by the Aurora Borealis, brings digital colour changes and fades to your spa. You can choose the perfect lighting scheme to fit your mood, adding to the ambiance of your soaking sessions or backyard parties.

Therapy - Chromatherapy, or colour therapy, is a growing trend in hot tub design, where coloured lighting changes the overall look of the water and can help calm and rejuvenate the body. Hydrotherapy water massage has also become a major benefit in owning a hot tub as it can help improve circulation, decrease joint pain, and accelerate the body’s natural healing processes. Another growing interest is aromatherapy, where specific scents combined with the natural warm flowing water and comforting lighting help relax the body.

For more information on hot tub trends or Arctic Spas products, visit www.arcticspas.com.

About Arctic Spas:

Founded in 1994, Arctic Spas® is Blue Falls Manufacturing's flagship brand of portable hot tubs and outdoor spa products purpose-built for extreme weather climates. The line is available in the United States and across the globe.

Stocking Stuffer Ideas For Him

Stocking stuffers for kids are easy- toys, candy, fruit, and more are every where. For women, you can get jewelry, trinkets, makeup, nail polish, office supplies, and so much more. Shopping for a man's stocking gets a little more difficult. Sure, you could put screw drivers in there, but who wants just screw drivers. Here are a few ideas for the man in your life.

1. Tommy John Underwear

It's an unfortunate fact that men will wear the same underwear for 5 years...or until they fall apart.

Guys call our underwear "life changing" for it's comfort and support. Our Air underwear is also antimicrobial and anti-odor. And, as with all Tommy John underwear, it comes with a "No Wedgie" guarantee, so the only thing he'll need to pull it out of...is his stocking.

2. Survival Grenade

Is the man in your life outdoorsy like mine? This Survival Grenade is the perfect companion then. It has a clip for easy carry and a compass that is view-able without taking it apart. Inside, you will find items like fishing hooks, safety pins, band aids, bait, twine, and a razor blade. You can even add more items to it. It comes with a lifetime guarantee. 

3. Mobile Gaming System

Is the man in your life a gamer? What better accessory is there than a controller for their phone. let them game like always, even on the go with the MOGA Mobile Gaming System for Android, it even comes with free downloads. 

4. Mini Quadcopter

Is the Mr playful like mine? Why not get him a grown up toy? My husband loves this Cheerson Quadcopter and it would be perfect as a stocking stuffer. It is fun and something he can do with the kids. Win-win! See my review to learn more. 

5. Practical Items

I love using the stocking to give more practical items. My kids usually get a new toothbrush, so why not to the same for him. Include items like a toothbrush, favorite soap, hunter's vest, and other items that he will find useful in every day life. Make it something useful and funny, like these bacon flavored toothpicks. 

Review: Direct Beats System Headphones Case

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above in exchange for review from Giveaway Service website. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. e7d1c8e3c2e1

I have been searching for a headphones case for my husband. Bless his heart, he carries them with him everywhere, but I am always worried that something is going to happen to them. This Direct Beats System case ($12.95 Amazon) has put my worries at ease, finally!

My husband uses full size around hear headphones, so a small case just would not work. this case is made specifically for the dbs live headphones, but will also fit other headphones of the same type. The clam-shell exterior helps give a layer of protection from every day carrying. It has two interior pockets for storing different items, like charging cables and 3.5 cords. The velvet lining is soft on the headphones, preventing scratches and the zipper is sturdy and easy to close, without getting snagged. The case is made from PU fabric, making it water resistant- perfect for my outdoorsy man. It is also great for him to carry to work. He does construction, so he can put his headphones away when they are not being used without worry of sawdust, rain, or dirt getting on them. When he pulls them out again, they are clean, safe, and ready to be worn. Headphones are sold separately. 1 year warranty. Suit headsets 2.75" deep 5.9" diameter.

He loves the case and always grabs it on his way out and I love that I do not have to worry about his prized headphones getting damaged. 

Review: Gooseneck Mobile Phone Holder From ##huixinda

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above in exchange for review from Giveaway Service website. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. d0c0d9c9f7f1
I am always looking for ways to mount my phone so that it is more useful. Sometimes that is to watch videos, or for the kids to watch videos. Sometimes it is to do a video, monitor apps on investigations, or even monitor social media while I work. I've tried several different options, but never found anything as handy as this Huixinda Gooseneck Mobile Phone Mount ($11.99 Amazon).

This mount is very durable and will last for years to come. I love the fact that the clamps are padded, so that it does not do damage to the phone or what you clip it to. The arm of the mount is very sturdy and a bit hard to bend, but this ensures that it stays in the position you put it in. I like that I can mount my phone to just about anything and let the kids listen to music, listen to audio lessons, or even watch some videos, although I limit their video watching on the small screen of the phone. I can even clip it to the shelf next to my bathroom mirror and listen to music or the news while I'm getting ready. It also allows me to mount my phone up high where the kids cannot touch it. I've used it at my desk to monitor social media, in the kitchen while I cook for music, and even clipped it onto a tripod so that I can use my paranormal apps while I am filming and monitor changes in the atmosphere and such. This is a great mount and I'm sure I will purchase another to keep in my paranormal gear. It would also make a perfect Christmas gift. Anyone who uses a smartphone could benefit from this mount.

Book Review: The Behemoth Dinosaur in the Land of Uz

Disclaimer: I received a book to review. All opinions are my own. 

I have always been interested in Dinosaurs. In fact, that was the first word I learned to spell. I would sit for hours and read about Dinosaurs- I had an entire encyclopedia set designated to dinosaurs. Studying about them in the Bible as I got older opened up a whole new world to me. It thrills me that my Tbomb loves them as well, so when I was given the opportunity to read and review The Behemoth Dinosaur in the Land of Uz with him, I jumped on it.

A boy named Job sees his friend dippy the behemoth at the well. Job is very happy to see dippy and ask if he can hug him. Dippy had left to another land to get food and now he’s back at Uz. Little Job told dippy to eat and drink from their plants and water. Dippy was afraid the villagers might be angry with him like the other villagers. Difficulties began for dippy after he decided to stay.

I was very excited to read this book with Tbomb. To be honest though, I was a big disappointed. I do love that the Spanish translation is right there, but it seems to be written by a child and the language used is too simple for the age it is intended for. Tbomb was bored easily with it. I was also expecting more of the Bible to be referenced, but besides the name of Job and the drawings, there wasn't much to do with the bible. I love books and love the concept of this book, but this will not be a repeated story in our home. I really wish the author would revise it because it has the potential to be a very good book, especially because it is bilingual. 

Available on Amazon ($3.99 kindle)

Book Review: NKJV Study Bible for Kids

Disclaimer: I received a Bible to review. All opinions are my own. 

My kids have several Bible storybooks on the bookshelf. These range from baby bibles to bible storybooks for kids. We even have several classic illustrated bibles and devotional books for kids, but I wanted more for them. I wanted bibles for them to be able to reference as they grow in their study of the scripture. Sometimes when we read our devotions, I want them to know more of the scripture than what is given in the devotional book. I would always go grab my bible and read to them, but they usually don't quite get it. I had been searching for bibles that could grow with them, that contain actual scripture, and that had some devotions and side stories, similar to the one I had as a kid and teenager.

The NKJV Study Bible For Kids is perfect for Tbomb. He is such a curious kid, has so much faith, and wants to learn more about God. He never seems to get enough, but I love that. Every night when we read our bible stories, he wants to know more about the story. This bible has proven to be a great companion for teaching him about God. I know that when he reads on his own better, he will dive into it on his own. The NKJV Study Bible for Kids is the premier study Bible for children 8 to 12 in the trusted New King James Version, and in full-color! Not only is this a Bible for study of biblical facts and themes, it also includes articles that are topical, and truly applicable to a child's daily life!

This is a study Bible you can trust. It is NKJV and published by Thomas Nelson, a very trustworthy Christian publisher. This Bible is chock full of study notes that helps kids understand and engage with scripture. With the features included in this Bible, kids are able to learn even more about god's Word and apply it to their everyday life. This Bible will help them establish a firm foundation to stand on in their faith.

This Bible features a full-color interior. It also includes behind the scenes introductions for each book. Spotlight: Gods story from Genesis to Revelation. Epic Ides are must-know topics that relate to a kid's world. The Action! section is helpful, interesting, and day-to-day life topics. Starring Roles are personality profiles of leading Bible characters. In Focus are highlighted words with easy to understand definitions. It even features maps and charts with On Location! It also includes a Topical Index and Dictionary/ Concordance.

This is the perfect Bible for any child, but especially a child that is curious and full of questions. I like to read the scripture to him that relates our nightly Bible story and any notes that go along, as well as show him the map. He will ask questions, but usually going back over what we read will answer them. Although he is only 5, when I read this to him, he seems to really understand it more. I know this Bible will grow with him for many hears and help his faith and knowledge grow.

Available on Amazon ($18.62) and booksellers everywhere.

Book Review: Faithgirlz Bible, NKJV

Disclaimer: I received a Bible to review. However, all opinions are my own.

My kids have several Bible storybooks on the bookshelf. These range from baby Bibles to Bible storybooks for kids. We even have several classic illustrated Bibles and devotional books for kids, but I wanted more for them. I wanted Bibles for them to be able to reference as they grow in their study of the scripture. Sometimes when we read our devotions, I want them to know more of the scripture than what is given in the devotional book. I would always go grab my Bible and read to them, but they usually don't quite get it. I had been searching for Bibles that could grow with them, that contain actual scripture, and that had some devotions and side stories, similar to the one I had as a kid and teenager.

With the Faithgirlz Bible, NKJV, I found exactly what I wanted for Kodabug. Every girl wants to know she’s totally unique and special. This Bible says that with Faithgirlz sparkle. Through the many in-text features found only in the Faithgirlz Bible, girls will grow closer to God as they discover the journey of a lifetime. 

This Bible is full of features that girls will enjoy and will grow with her. These include book introductions that describe the who, when, where, and what of each book. The Dream Girl feature encourages girls to use their imaginations to put themselves into the story. Bring It On! is quizzes encouraging girls to get to know themselves better. "Is There a Little (Eve, Ruth, Isaiah, etc) In You?" helps girls to find what they have in common with the people of the Bible. It also includes Words to Live By, which are Bible verses that are great to memorize. What Happens Next? has them create a list of events to tell a Bible story in their own words. Oh, I get It! helps girls find answers to the Bible questions they have wondered about.

This Bible encourages young girls to dive into the scripture, really study it, and get to know the people of the Bible better. At the same time, it is strengthening the things like reading comprehension that they learn in school. It is a win-win, I wish I had this Bible as a kid. This is a Bible that will stick by their sides for many years.

Translation features written by bestselling author Nancy Rue. Published by Zonderkids. Available on Amazon ($18.10) and at booksellers everywhere.

Got Holiday Cooking Stress? Catering expert shares five simple tips to avoid anxiety and impress your guests

While the holiday season is generally a happy time of year, it does bring about some stress. Whether it is battling the shopping mall crowd, deciding what gifts to buy, traveling or your visiting in-laws, seasonal stress is real. For those of us tasked with cooking the holiday party meal the anxiety may make you feeling not-so holly jolly.

Dennis Snuszka, Vice President of Food & Beverage at TooJay’s Deli (www.toojays.com), a go-to choice for holiday party catering, has a few tips to take some of the stress out of the holidays:

1. Make a list – It sounds simple but lists can help keep you organized and allows you to get all of the tasks and to-dos out of your busy mind and down on paper. This kind of planning will help you visualize how you want to serve the food and assure that you are not forgetting a family favorite. Start with your overall menu and then list ingredients needed, items that need to be ordered ahead as well as tasks that you can delegate.

2. Cooking Calendar – Once your menu is set you know not only what to make, but when to make it. Don’t leave the cooking to just one day. Some recipes need time for marinating, others can easily be made days ahead to free up oven space and ease the stress of the holiday event.

3. Simplicity is key - Easy to make items are key to avoiding stress, especially the day-of the party. Between setting up and welcoming your guests, there isn’t much time to spend in the kitchen. There are delicious recipes that are also simple and easy to make. Examples include pears wrapped in prosciutto, green beans with pine nuts, a crudité platter, fruit salad and pre-made desserts.

4. Label-Making- Set out and label serving dishes and pair with utensils a few days before the party. This allows you to get everything cleaned and sorted in advance. This step will also help you account for space and identify any other bowls, baskets or serving pieces needed. No one wants to scramble to set up an additional table or run to the store for more items the day of an event.

5. Leave it to the Pros – Sure, a holiday meal made in your kitchen sounds warm and fuzzy, but the strain on your holiday spirit may not be worth it. However, there is nothing wrong with getting a little help! You can still make your traditional family favorites but let a caterer help with specialty foods for vegetarians or guests who need to eat gluten-free. Or, have them prepare desserts and side dishes to compliment your famous roast. Partnering with a caterer allows you to enjoy the holiday while serving a meal your friends and family won’t forget. It’s up to you whether you share your secrets!

About TooJay’s Deli

Founded in 1981, TooJay’s (www.TooJays.com) has become a Florida institution renowned for serving authentic New York deli comfort food. With 26 restaurants throughout the state, they are famous for sliced-to-order meats and piled-high sandwiches. They also offer freshly baked bread, salads, pastries and desserts. In addition, TooJay’s has an array of catering options for holidays, office gatherings and events of any size.

Holiday Gift Guide For Busy Families: Travel

Disclaimer: While I have received some items to review, these are items I truly believe will make great gifts.

My favorite thing to give members of busy families (and my own kids) are travel items. Most of these items can be used anywhere, but make travel more enjoyable, easier, or more organized.

1. August EP715: These noise cancelling earbuds are sure to give you peace and quiet on a plane ride, train ride, or among noisy kids. As to be expected from August International, they are of amazing quality and the sound is amazing. Use the usb port or AAA battery for power on the go. These are a winner for the traveler on your list. See on Amazon.

2. Thirty-One Large utility Tote: This is one of the most useful bags ever. You can seriously use it for almost anything and storage. It is durable and pretty- just like you would expect from Thirty-One Gifts. Learn more and see 31 Uses for the Large Utility Tote on my full review.

3. Tigernu Polyester DSLR Camera Backpack: This camera backpack from BangGood is perfect for cameras and other equipment that needs protection. The padding in this bag is superb, there are side pockets for tripods and monopods, and the flap even has mesh pockets for cords and such. It also comes with a combination lock. You can read more about it in my full review.

4. CarSeat Cinema: This is by far one of the coolest tech/ travel accessories I have ever come across. It is definitely a must-have for families on the go. Use it to keep devices away from little hands, but where they can see it, attach it to things so that the phone/ tablet cannot be dropped, and even protect the device from sticky hands. You can learn more from my full review and find 10 places you can use the CarSeat Cinema.

5. Ohuna Waterproof Monocular Telescope: This is the perfect gift for adventure travelers. It is waterproof and very durable with a rubber coating. It comes with a lanyard, carrying case, and tripod. At $19.99, it is a perfect gift. You can learn more by reading my full review.

Holiday Gift Guide For Busy Families: Tech

Disclaimer: While I have received some items to review, these are items I truly believe will make great gifts. 

Everyone has that techie on their list that is picky and hard to shop for (I'm probably that person on many lists) so hopefully this compilation will help find the perfect gift for them.

1. August MS515- These Dual portable Bluetooth speakers are essential for techies everywhere. They boast excellent sound quality, 15 hour battery life, audio cable, and more features. August is always a quality you can trust and the techie on your list will appreciate these speakers. See on Amazon.

2. PhotoFast Hello Kitty Max: Easily back up photos and more from your iPhone with this adorable device. Available up to 128gb, you can find the size you need. Learn more on the PhotoFast website.

3. Worry Free Goodie Selfie Stick: With this selfie stick, you do not have to worry about charging it before you need it, syncing it with your device, or other taks that are involved when you use a Bluetooth selfie stick. Just plug it in to your headphone jack and you are good to go. you can also use it with cameras, lights, and other items you may need to hold at a distance. See on Amazon.

4. Life+Phorm: It may look like a creature from Alien, but it is actually a really handy accessory to have on hand. The uses are exponential. I have used mine to hold up my phone and tablet. I have also used it to mount items to a tripod and in a pinch to mount many other gadgets. You can learn more about this amazing device on the B&H Photo website.

5. Buckshot Pro: This amazing device from Outdoor Tech is a rechargeable light, speaker, and battery pack all in one. It even comes with a mount to let you attach it to almost anything. it is water proof and shock proof. You can see my full review here.

Holiday Gift Guide For Busy Families: Family Gifts

Disclaimer: While I have received some items to review, these are items I truly believe will make great gifts.

Are there families on your list that you buy one item for the family to share? We do that for certain families- but it isn't always easy to pick something out for everyone. Hopefully this list will help with that.

1. Exergen Temporal Scanner: No family likes for its members to be sick, but when that is the case, we need to be able to trust the source we take temperatures with. This easy to use and reliable thermometer is a must have for busy families. You can even check the temperature of a sleeping child in a dark room with the backlit display. It even automatically saves the last eight temperatures for easy reference. This is definitely a must have for busy families. Watch it in action on their website ($49.99 at retailers everywhere)

2. SriCam Wireless Security Camera: this amazing wireless camera can be viewed from anywhere, alerts you of movement, works in the dark, and is weatherproof. Easy to set up, it is the perfect gift for families to use for security or even a baby monitor. Check out my full review here.

3. Hollywild Animal Park Tickets: Hollywild Animal Park is home to many of the animals you see in commercials and movies every day. You can visit as a family and even have a party. Hollywild is also home to Mandela, a rare white lion. March to October is the regular park season, with Holiday lights running from November to January. Visit Hollywild.Net for more information.

4. Lumpy Cubes: Roosterfin has so many fun games, but Lumpy Cubes is by far my favorite. It is a cube-stacking game designed to improve your memory. Use the patterned cards to play the game and stack the cubes just right. It is cute, educational, and fun. For more information and to purchase, check out their website.

5. Worry Free Goodie Hair-Cutting Tools: Is there a DIY family on your list? Help them accomplish and safe money with hair-cutting tools from Worry Free Goodie. The umbrella kieeps little one's hair from falling all over the place and the bang tripping tool gurarantees perfect bangs between cuts. Check them out on Amazon.

Holiday Gift Guide For Busy Families: Kids

Disclaimer: While I have received some items to review, these are items I truly believe will make great gifts. 

1. Vtech Write & Learn Creative Center: With each milestone our children reach, there seems to be a different toy to help encourage that. Very few toys cover more milestones than this amazing Creative Center. Both of my kids love it and will for years. Learn about this and other Vtech toys here.

2. Pillow Pets Back Packs: Pillow Pets are always a great gift idea. The Back Packs add something extra to the mix. Soft and cuddly, like the original, but with a pouch. This would make a great travel companion. Not only can they use it for their goodies, but you could also put a blanket inside and use it for a travel pillow and have everything they need when they reach their destination. Purchase here.

3. Learn, Absorb, and Praise Classic collection. This set of 3 board books teaches about God and how he relates to a child's every day life. The wrapper of the set allows you to write words of encouragement and your very own prayer for the child. It is a beautiful book set and is sure to be enjoyed by children everywhere. See my full review here.

4. PlaSmart Smart Mat: This mat will be a perfect gift for one or multiple children. It is a large 78"x46" and can be used inside or outside. In fact, ours gets used at home, in hotel rooms, outside, and cmaping. It is available in road and castle print, coated in EVA foam, and easily cleaned. This mat is sure to be the child's most useful and fun gift! ($29.99 PlaSmart website)

5. Kurio Tablet: We live in a very tech driven world and kids are no exception. Kids are getting more and more computer/ device savvy and we often consider getting them their own. We worry about their online safety and the safety of the device in children's hands- so we put this off. Kurio has come to the rescu with their kid friendly and kid safe tablet. The Kurio Xtreme 2 With Kurio Motion 2.0 is sure to wow the techie kid on your list. It is a full-function Android tablet with a 7" screen and Android 5.0. It has Kid-Proof bumpers, a shatterproof screen protector, and built-in kickstand. Available in blue at retailers nationwide and an exclusive pink version at ToysRUs

The stand is perfect for playing Kurio’s exclusive Kurio Motion body-movement-controlled games that will have kids up off the couch—running, jumping and dancing in front of their tablets.  All-new Kurio Motion 2.0 multiplayer games—found in the “Extreme” and “Playground” Motion game packs—get kids in the competitive spirit as they knock baseballs out of the park, raft down rivers, race drones, show off their dance moves and more.  Thanks to the micro HDMI port, the Xtreme 2 can be connected to the TV so that that the entire family can gather in the family room and compete head-to-head in any of the 18 exclusive Kurio Motion games included.
But, that’s not all. Since this is a full-featured Android tablet, the Xtreme 2 is fully loaded with more than 60 apps (a $300 value) for out-of-the-box play, including some of the most popular gaming apps: Subway Surfers™, Berry Rush™ and Zombie Tsunami™. Kids can also stream music and videos from Spotify, YouTube Kids, Toon Goggles and Netflix, Skype and stay connected with kid-safe email. Plus, with parents’ permission, kids can access millions more apps through the Google Play store.

As always, Kurio tablets let parents customize their child’s tablet experience in a password-protected Parental Area, setting time controls, managing apps and determining web access for up to eight user profiles. The Kurio Genius Internet filtering system allows kids to safely search the web, covering more than 500 million websites in 170 languages and providing in-app web filtering to block inappropriate content. 

Parents can also access Kurio SOS, Kurio’s live, instant 24/7 customer care service right from the tablet. Kurio SOS offers free, unlimited live chat sessions with a tech expert—and Kurio’s technicians can actually remotely takeover the device and resolve any issues that may arise. This way, the kids can get back to their tablet and parents can look like tech support superheroes!

Tech specs: Mediatek© MTK8127™ Quad-core processor, Bluetooth 4.0, 16 GB of internal memory (expandable by 32GB with microSD card), front and rear-facing cameras, micro HDMI and micro USB 2.0 ports.

Holiday Gift Guide For Busy Families: Dads

Disclaimer: While I have received some items to review, these are items I truly believe will make great gifts.

If you are like me, most of the dads you shop for "already have everything," making it nearly impossible to shop for them. I've gathered some items that are unique and useful- I'm sure there is something here for each dad on your list.

1. Cheerson Quadcopter: This fun and unique gift will not only impress dad, but the kids as well. An excellent beginner quadcopter, it is easy to learn, durable, and has impressive features. Learn more from my review.

2. Man Crate: Man Crates offers unique and personalized crates for that man who already has everything. Choose from jerky, Ammo cans, wooden crates, project kits, retro gamer, and more. there is a wide variety of options - one for everyone. Learn more at ManCrates.com

3. August Bluetooth Beanie: Can't decide to get him a new beanie, headphones, or a Bluetooth headset? Get all three with this amaing beanie! It has excellent sound quality, easy to use, rechargeable, and comfortable. What is better. He can easily wear it with his favorite hoodie too. Find out more on Amazon.

4. BrickSwag Subscription Box: Is he a Legos fan? Mine is! This subscription box arrives each month with a t-shirt, build kits, build magazine, trading cards, and more. Looking for something for dad and the kids to do together? This is perfect. Read my review here.

5. Cave Tools Grilling Rack: Is the dad in your life a grilling enthusiast? Then this Kabob rack is just what they need. Easily create kabobs, cook them on the grill or fire, and turn them so they get the perfect grilling every time. See more in my review.

Holiday Gift Guide For Busy Families: Mom

Disclaimer: While I have received some items to review, these are items I truly believe will make great gifts. 

Is there a special mom on your list? Are you still struggling to find her the perfect gift to suit her busy life? These gifts are sure to impress and make life a little bit easier for her.

1. London SOHO New York Disney Villians Makeup Brushes- who doesn't like the boldness of the Disney Villians? Treat the busy lady in your life to these fabulous makeup brushes that will be sure to make her happy, bring out the bold, and give her the quality she deserves. Available at Walgreens.

2. Harry Connick Jr: That Would Be Me. Give the gift of America's favorite crooner. Harry has been back in the studio wowing us once again. With this long awaited album, you will give her the gift of music, love, and calm. There is nothing like relaxing after a long day with Harry and some wine.

3. Royal Silk Scarf: This beautiful silk scarf not only gives her a beautiful gift that is carefully handmade, but helps those in need as well. This gorgeous silk scarf adds color to the holidays and supports the needs of children and families worldwide. The luxurious silk is woven by Vietnam’s Ma Chau villagers, who receive sustainable income through their craft. $95 Purchase

4. Xyron Sticker Maker: Does the mom in your life enjoy her planning time? Is she a crafter? The Xyron 3" sticker maker will be an amazing accessory for her craft/ planning kit. Make stickers out of paper and other flat objects up to 3" wide. Easy to use and durable, she will find many uses for it. Buy this sticker maker and other models on the Xyron website and at retailers nationwide.

5. Thirty-One Fashion Games Tote: There isn't a woman I know that doesn't love Thirty-One Gifts. They are always a win. This is the perfect gift for the fashionista mom in your life. Beautiful, functional, durable, and classic- she is sure to be wowed! It is large and sturdy enough for her every day essentials, plus the extras she needs to throw in. Learn more here.

Bigfoot Plus Tech Equals #OutdoorTech

Disclaimer: I received a product to review. All opinions are my own.

You guys KNOW I love Bigfoot- my whole family has caught the bug. Even my son wants to be a "Squatcher" when he grows up. I love tech. What is better than combining them? Outdoor Tech has done just that with their product. They are rugged and advanced- what better mascot than a Bigfoot? This is especially true with the Buckshot Pro! This is the perfect tech accessory for anyone who spends time outdoors- especially a Bigfoot Researcher. 

The Buckshot Pro is not just a portable Bluetooth speaker. It is the ultimate accessory. It is also a power bank, flashlight, strobe light, and camp light. There isn't much that is more impressive than that. It even comes with a handlebar mount that allows you to mount it to much more than just handlebars. 

This amazing Buckshot Pro is the coolest power bank/ speaker/ light I have ever used. Wait... I've never used one that is all three! The light has three modes- torch, lamp, flash to suite any of your needs and can even be used as a headlight on your bike or ATV. Even better- it is shock and water resistant! You get 10 hours of talk/ play time and it is easily recharged- it also has a built in speaker. I like to use it as a call blaster because I've got all I need - put calls on my phone and connect it via Bluetooth, plus I have a power bank to recharge my phone or camera and a light... AMAZING! 

I truly love this product and constantly have it handy when I'm out in the woods. I love that I can attach it to my backpack, monopod, or anything else that I need to for it to be handy- or hold it in my hand. My favorite feature- the Bigfoot on it, of course!

Book Review: The Snowflake: Winter's Frozen Artistry

Disclaimer: I received a book to review. However, All opinions are my own.

As you know, I live in South Carolina. Even though we are very close to the mountains and in the far corner, we rarely get snow. We usually get one snowfall in late February. Once I remember it snowing on Christmas Eve- but that was like a miracle. In South Carolina, snow holds so much wonder because it is such a rare treat. I love seeing the look on my kids' faces when the snow is falling and they get to go out and touch it. We build snowmen, have snowball fights, and even do snow angels- even if there is just an inch. We usually make snowflake crafts while it is still snowing because they are so excited. This year, I'm excited for the kids to go on a new snow journey, thanks to this book.

The Snowflake: Winter's Frozen Artistry ($18.97 on Amazon) by Kenneth Libbrecht and Rachel Wing is a truly beautiful book. Take a deeper look at the unique, hidden beauty of winter with the world's foremost snowflake expert.

This book takes you on the journey of a snowflake and allows you to see the intricate details of the snowflakes an the beautiful differences in each. Microphotography allows you to see these beautiful details. This book defines the art and science of snowflakes for generations.

Join Libbrecht and Wing as they charmingly chronicle the creation of snow crystals, both in nature and in the laboratory. The Snowflake: Winter's Frozen Artistry touches the hand of Mother Nature, showing incredible microphotography of individual snow crystals from all over the world. The book tells the history of snowflake observations mixed with an entertaining blend of tales of hunting snowflakes, snowflakes in literature and art, and the science of snowflakes, to bring a flurry of delightful snowflakes into the hands of warm-bodied humans everywhere. With this captivating book, we can better appreciate snowflakes, winter's frozen artistry. (Italics from Amazon)

What better way to teach your children to truly appreciate the beauty of nature than them seeing snow with their own eyes and then going on this journey with The Snowflake: Winter's Frozen Artistry. Nothing else shows the miracle that is nature better than this book. The wonder in their eyes of seeing snow on the ground does not compare to the wonder when they see what a snowflake really looks like under a microscope. My kids love science and this books and expanded that love further than I thought truly possible. They now want to know all about all the sciences and definitely want to learn more about weather. This book has done so much for their natural curiosity. Thanks to the authors for giving this extra sense of wonder to children and adults alike.