Embracing a Healthy Family

Get Ready for Fun with Marvel Avengers Battle For Earth #CleverAvengers


Thank you to Ubisoft for sponsoring this post. Please click here to learn more about Ubisoft. I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective. #UbiChamps


Get Ready for Fun with Marvel Avengers Battle For Earth!  This Xbox 360 Kinect game by Ubisoft is the game in my house.  My girls, like most kids, love to play present and super heroes is right up there in the fun, fun, fun department.  Each of my girls have a favorites to include my future son-in-law.  The girls actually tease one another as to which boy is their favorite.  This game was ideal after watching the Avengers as they were able to choose out of one of the 20 characters they wanted to be each having four unique super powers.  As with the Xbox 360, no controllers are necessary leaving that cool techy space age feel of using your hands and body to coordinate with the game console.  

The girls didn't pay much attention to it since they are 5 and 9 but my son-in-law and I noticed the graphics are really nice and the voice overs sound pretty true to form.   The ultra moves were a hit among all of us since you get to control how many moves such as punches and swings you can pull off.  As a bonus, it provides physical activity too!   You can go solo or have a buddy to fight with and it's easy to maneuver around that a nine year old figured it out.  My five year old had a bit harder time playing it but that is understandable given her age.  There are limitations playing on the Kinect but that is with the system itself and making sure you have enough room to play.  Overall, it's a fun filled game and provides a great family night especially if you have one or more who like the Avengers.  In our house, it was a win!



Check out my other giveaways here.

DIY Nicole's Nails' Valentine's Day Inspired Nails

Here is a great and inexpensive ways to get those designer looking nails at home. Nicole's Nails provides this nice tutorial on how to add cupcakes and hearts to rock that Valentine's Day look.  As I was watching the video, my nine year old kept saying, "that's cool!"  I know what I'll be doing this weekend!




*Disclaimer:  By posting this video, I might be eligible for a $25 Amazon gift card.
C*heck out my other giveaways here.

Samsung Chromebook Giveaway - 2/18 - Worldwide



 Win a Samsung Chromebook! 165 Bloggers and Brands have joined together to bring you this amazing giveaway event! Sponsored by: Mom BlogSociety | S.O.S Mom | Jackie's Reviews | Geeky Gamer Mom | Swank Savings | She Informed | Mom Does Reviews | Route 249 | A Medics World | As Mom Sees It | Spend With Pennies | Simply Sherryl | It's Free At Last | Science Of Couponing | And a special thanks to the following brands. Lumber Liquidators | Trade Winds Imports | Brylane Home | Select Blinds | eFacuets | Carolina Rustic |

This is going to be a huge giveaway that you don't want to miss!  Keep yourself entertained at home and on the road with the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 (7.0). Weighing just 12 ounces and sporting a vibrant 7-inch touchscreen display, the Galaxy Tab 2 runs the Android 4.0 ("Ice Cream Sandwich") operating system and is powered by a 1.0 GHz dual-core processor to help you achieve maximum usage across various demanding applications.

  • Exceptional 7-inch multitouch screen designed for reading books and magazines, watching movies, playing games, and more (view larger).
  • Access the Internet and stream media over your home network via ultra-fast Wireless-N Wi-Fi. a
  • Smart Remote app and built-in IR Blaster to allow you to watch and control your TV content--all from the palm of your hand. 
  • The Galaxy Tab offers full support for Adobe Flash Player 10.1 for accessing Flash-enabled websites, watching video and playing games. 
  • Designed to fit in one hand, typing messages or notes is simple and easy with the Galaxy Tab's virtual QWERTY keyboard. 
  • It's outfitted with a 3-megapixel rear-facing camera for photo capture and sharing as well as a VGA front-facing camera for video chat. 
  • Other features include 8 GB of internal memory, microSD memory expansion (for up to 32 GB of expansion via optional cards), Bluetooth 3.0 wireless connectivity for hands-free devices and stereo music streaming, and GPS for navigation and location services.
The Power of Android 4.0

With the Android 4.0 OS (aka, Ice Cream Sandwich), you can enjoy the most ramped up, up to the minute features and multitudes of apps supported by new the ICS technology. You'll get an evolved, intuitively designed UI that transitions seamlessly across all your applications, plus enhanced web browsing, faster overall response, and easier accessibility to preloaded Google Mobile apps including YouTube, Google Search, Maps, and more. With integrated Google technology, the Galaxy Tab 2 brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services millions use every day, including Google Search, Gtalk, Google+, and contacts/calendar synchronization. And through Google Play, you'll get access to thousands of useful applications and fun games to download and install on your tablet, with many more apps being added every day

Open world wide: Winners outside the USA will receive the cash equivalent via Paypal or Amazon winners choice. NO EXCEPTIONS! You must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

See official sweepstake rules. a Rafflecopter giveaway    


Check out my other giveaways here.

Linguine with Gremolata Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Devo Olive Oil Co.


I am a huge fan of olive oil and made the switch to cook with it years ago.  I was introduced to flavored olive oil thanks to Devo Olive Oil Co. many month's ago.  I love the variety of recipes you can use Devo in and how the taste is just tantalizing ... if you are a food lover like me at least!  I received Gremolata Extra Virgin Olive Oil and had fun trying to determine what recipe I would use it in and decided on a linguine.




Linguine with Gremolata Extra Virgin Olive Oil

  • Linguine (dried) but I used homemade from my oldest daughter
  • 1/3 cup Gremolata Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Devo
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely grated
  • 1 tbs ginger, finely grated
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes
  • Pepper
In a small pan, combine oil, garlic, ginger and chili flakes and warm over a low heat.  Do not overcook to where the color turns.

Cook linguine until al dente and drain.  

Pour the oil mix into the linguine and stir to coat.

Gremolata topping:

1 slice of bread toasted
1 lemon, zested
2 tbs parsley, finely chopped

Combine in a processor to make a crumbly mixture and sprinkled on top of the linguine.

We loved this recipe and the Gremolata provided the perfect taste.  It wasn't too heavy or oily.  

My youngest loves a recipe I have for French Beignets with Aged Blackberry-Ginger Balsamic.  Stay tuned for a Valentine's Day inspired recipe.

*Disclosure:  I was provided product sample for the purposes of this post.  The opinions are of my own.

Check out my giveaways here.

French Beignets with the Strawberry Balsamic Devo Olive Oil Co


I tried this recipe for French Beignets with the Strawberry Balsamic instead of the Blackberry Baslamic from Devo Olive Oil Co. and loved them.

My girls were huge fans of these.  They are a bit cumbersome to make but they make a ton!

I love Devo Olive Oil Co because they have a huge selection of olive oil to choose from.  If you like to cook, you will love the selection, quality and taste.  The site offers an array of products to choose from along with recipes and more.






Del Monte Southwestern Tomato Kick-Off Pinterest Contest & Gift Pack Giveaway 2/18


The Super Bowl is coming and I'm hoping to have some great recipes to hit off the big day.  I'm a bit bummed that my team, Broncos, didn't make it but I'm a Jim Harbaugh fan so I'm okay with the 49'ers going forward.  Not only is the Super Bowl a great time to cook wonderful recipes but winter also inspires many dishes that use tomatoes.  Del Monte has a great line of southwestern tomatoes that can be used in just about recipe that calls for tomatoes.  I like a tangy tomato taste with a kick and that's where Del Monte Southwester tomatoes are golden.

I love the Del Monte Southwestern-Style Petite Cut® Diced tomatoes so much, I even participated in Del Monte's Southwestern Tomato Kick-Off contest on Pinterest.  Check out my board here.  You can also participate by:

  1. Creating a Pinterest board and name it Del Monte Southwestern Tomato Kick-Off.
  2. Pin at least two of the Del Monte recipes from the Del Monte Pinterest board here along with two Super Bowl entertaining ideas.
  3. Register your board between January 21st through February 15th to be entered to win some really great prizes.

Del Monte canned tomatoes, fruits and vegetables have the same essential nutrients as fresh varieties and the majority of Del Monte products are picked at their peak of ripeness and canned on the same day according to Del Monte.  I've already tried my Del Monte tomatoes in chili, spaghetti sauce and bruchetta bread.

Stay up to date with Del Monte on their social media links:

DelMonte.com – http://bit.ly/8AMAmK
Pinterest – http://bit.ly/ShTQL6
Facebook – http://on.fb.me/IYzXOV
Twitter – www.twitter.com/DelMonteFoods


To learn more about the sweepstakes, click here.

The Giveaway:

One reader will win:
  • (1) Del Monte® Petite Cut® Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies
  • (1) Del Monte® Petite Cut® Diced Tomatoes with Chipotle Chilies
  • $25 Visa gift card
To Enter:

Please use the Rafflecopter form below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

  *Disclosure:  The Del Monte products, information and two gift packs have been provided by Del Monte.

Check out my other giveaways here.

Baby Stroller of Choice from Toys R Us - $300 Value - US - 2/28

Welcome to the baby stroller of your choice giveaway - up to $300 value!




(The picture is only an example)


Hosted:

NYSavingSpecials, Your Fashion Resource, My Four Littles, Barbara's Beat, Libby's Library, Spend With Pennies, Jenny at Dapperhouse, Sweet n Sour Deals, Oh! My Heartsie, Capri's Coupons, Swank Savings, Stay a Stay at Home Mom, Mommy and 4 Peas, A Little Bit of Everything and Eco-Crazy Mom
One lucky winner will win a stroller from any brand they like, it can be with car seat included or just the stroller.
The winner will pick up the stroller from Toysrus.com and will be sent directly from their website.  Details:
  • The stroller can be up to $300 including shipping charges. 
  • US ONLY
  • 18 Years or older to participate 
  • 2/1 to 2/28
Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: Health, Beauty, Children and Family is not responsible for prize. If the winner picks up a stroller with a lower value, the winner will not get the remaining value of the prize. The prize can't be changed from any other prize than the stroller.

Check out my other giveaways here.

The Money Code Book Giveaway - US - 2/11

Welcome to The Money Code Book Giveaway

Money Code

Does it seem as if there's never enough money to do everything you want?
Do you want to feel confident about the financial decisions you make?
Have you ever felt frustrated talking about money with your loved ones?

Health, Beauty, Children and Family has joined up with Xtreme Qpon to bring you this incredibly awesome giveaway! The Money Code is an informative and fun to read book. It will help you learn how to feel confident about your financial decisions and help you talk with your loved ones about money. You can read the full review at Xtreme Qpon

Enter the Rafflecopter below for your chance to win a copy of The Money Code. You do not have to complete all entries to be chosen, but the more you do complete, then better your chances are of winning! Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway 

Disclaimer: No purchase is necessary to enter. Void where prohibited by law. The odds of winning are based on the number of entries received. This promotion is no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook and is Facebook-compliant. Winners will be notified by email from Xtreme Qpon. Winners will have 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiting their prize. Prize fulfillment is the sole responsibility of the sponsor. The blogs participating may not be held liable for Sponsors who do not fulfill prize shipments. 

Check out my other giveaways here.

Devo Olive Oil Flash Sale - 25% Off - 1/29 Only

Click on Picture to Open Link

Due to seasonal availability, their full catalog of products may not be available for the Flash Sale. Buy early before stock runs out!

Check out my giveaways here.

Fun Fun Fun with Peppa Pig Happy Mrs. Chicken App for Preschoolers



As parents, we are in the internet and digital age.  We are a techy group of sophisticated parents entertaining and teaching our children in many ways.  I know that I'm still a big supporter of books and encourage my children to read and have a huge library to choose from.  I also like to find other ways to stimulate, entertain and education.  My girls and grandchild adore Peppa Pig and everything to do with her and her family.  When I learned about the Peppa Pig Happy Mrs. Chicken app for preschoolers, I had to let the girls give it a try.  My girls have watched Peppa, George, Mommy Pig, Daddy Pig, Suzy Sheep and Rebecca Rabbit for quite some time now.  I will honestly admit, I am not a fan of the enormous snort from Daddy Pig but the girls laugh each time so it's worth it!



My two year grandchild loved it the most and was able to play in an instant.  It provided an hour of immediate fun as she plays among five interactive games that provides the rewards of stickers for the sticker book.  The app is geared for children ages two to five and is very intuitive which makes it easy yet fun to play.  My five year old  loved it too and immediately grabbed it up to play.  What is nice are the audio instructions that are simple to follow and allows them up to six options to choose from.  The games are all fun, interactive and easy to learn:

  1. Maze provides six different mazes to play with guiding the little chicks to the exit by providing feed.  If one maze is too tough, they can start at a lower level and build themselves up higher.  It's a great way to build that hand to eye coordination as they maneuver around the corners.
  2. Chicken Coop has four different levels with times to guide the chicks to their proper homes.  This helps to increase awareness and to learn to understand details.
  3. Muddle Puddles is another timed game that has your child jumping over as many puddles as possibles.  When they win, they win more stickers!
  4. Happy Mrs. Chicken has the child tapping the screen to get Mrs. Chicken to lay as many eggs as possible.  This gives them a goal to beat by laying more eggs in the next round as well as learning how to lay them in a pattern which is a skill taught in kindergarten.
  5. Jigsaw Puzzle has three different puzzles with the choice of either two, nine or sixteen puzzle pieces.  This is another great game for hand eye coordination as well as problem solving.
  6. Sticker Book is where even more fun begins!  Eight different backgrounds allows the child to have fun with the stickers they earned by making new scenes.  It's easy to use with just tap and slide.

Happy Mrs. Chicken is a fun, interactive and intuitive app that will keep children ages two to five busy, happy and motivated to earn the next sticker.  Both my two year old grand daughter and my five year old daughter loved it!  Neither required instruction as it's easy to play and it's fun.  It's inexpensive and worth the $2.99 for downloading at iTunes.  It is compatable with iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Nokia E7, N8, C7 and C6-01 Android operating system 2.1 and above.


*Disclosure:  I did receive this app in exchange for the review.  The opinions are of my own.

Check out my other giveaways here.

Free Blogger Opportunity: Amazon Kindle Fire

My Four Littles is excited to bring you a Kindle Fire Giveaway!
Event Dates: March 1-31, 2013
One FREE link with announcement.
You can write your own announcement or use the text HERE.
Co-host (host page and up to four links): $15
Host Pages: $10
Additional Links: $2
Daily Votes: $4
Referral Prize: Free Co-host.
Limited to the first 100 bloggers.

Click here to sign up.

Check out my giveaways here.

Destressing with Far Cry 3 - Amazon Gold Box - $35 Today! #FarCryGold #spon


Thank you to Ubisoft for sponsoring this post. Please visit Amazon.com to get your own copy of Far Cry 3, today's Gold Box Deal of the Day! I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective. All opinions are my own.

How do you de-stress or unwind?  Many people have a variety of great ways to de-stress after a long day or week.  In my house, it seems playing video games is the go to for releasing some anxiety, stress or maybe even anger.  It's also a great way to have some fun and if you have family members who like to play, it also equates to family fun time.  My oldest has played games for as long as I can remember and now my two younger ones have games they like to play too just as any kid does.  My son-in-law loves the shooter type games and Far Cry 3 is right up his alley.




I do know that after a long week at work, he looks forward to the weekend and coordinates "play" time with his buddies.  Although he has not played Far Cry 3, he's very excited about it and already has looked it up.  Since Far Cry 3 is being developed by the same world-class designers that brought Assassin's Creed 2, Assassin's Creed Brotherhood, he is even more interested in the game.  What also appeals to him are:

  • The cache of weapons and explosives that allows a choice to shoot up close or from a distance via sniping.  
  • I'm not sure if he's big into the environment but I do know many, many gamers take in the beauty of these virtual worlds.  Far Cry 3 claims to have an "island playground as stunningly beautiful as it is diverse from mountain ranges to swampy grasslands and white sandy beaches."  You also have the choice to fight through the towns too.
  • Far Cry 3 also has a story line to fight through and a choice of a variety cast of characters.
  • The ability to play in multiplayer modes for individual and team play.  Not to mention that after the match, you get to punish your opponent.

Playing games is an easy way to release stress and it's cheaper than going out.  If you are not a gamer, you would be surprised at how much fun playing games are especially with others.  It's a great way to get together with friends and family. Shoot 'em up games also provide a challenge to learn the skillset to beat the game or at least your friends.  How do you de-stress?


Tweet the following for a chance to win your own copy:

Amazon Gold Box Deal of the Day: Far Cry 3! To buy: http://clvr.li/FC3Gold - RT to enter to win a copy! #FarCryGold 




Check out my other giveaways here.

$50 Amazon Gift Card - 1/28 - US



Welcome to the Amazon Gift Card Giveaway sponsored by Discount Queens! One lucky reader will win a $50 Amazon gift card - will it be you? Giveaway is open US only and ends January 28th at 11:59 PM EST. Discount Queens is responsible for prize fulfillment. 

Good luck and if you win from my blog, let me know!

Check out my other giveaways here.

Melissa and Doug Deluxe Kitchen Giveaway 2/10 - US/Canada

   
 
Welcome to the Melissa and Doug Deluxe Kitchen Giveaway and two runner up winners of $50 worth of products sponsored by Melissa and Doug,
A special thank you to all the participating blogs.
 

American Girl Giveaway - 2 Winners 2/19 - US

Welcome to the American Girl Giveaway!



Hosted by:


We are happy to bring you this great giveaway.

The American Girl Doll giveaway.

Jan 20 to Feb. 19, 2013

We will have two winners.

Winner number one will get:

Doll + Starter Collection.  
Winner gets to choose skin color, hair color and eye color.  
Value $120.

Winner number two will get:



One American Girl Doll with the box.  
Winner gets to choose which doll they want.


Value $105.

Winners will need to choose their prizes from American Girl Doll website.

Winner can not change prize for any other American Girl Product.

To be part of this giveaway you need to be 18 years or older.

This giveaway is only for US residents.

To gain entries to win, fill out the form below. 

All entries are optional.

Good luck! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

NYSavingSpecials is responsible for prize.   

  Check out my other giveaways here.