My New Coffee Bar

More and more coffee lovers find it enjoyable to have a coffee bar set up at home because it provides convenience, allowing them to prepare their favorite coffee beverages at any time. It also creates a cozy and personalized space where they can experiment with different coffee recipes and enjoy the comfort of home while savoring their coffee.

Hubby and I recently decided to design a new coffee bar area in our kitchen/dining room. We found all the things we needed on line.  I think it came out nice. 

Old Navy Fuels July 4th Road Trips With Free Gas

 Brand to Give Away Gas during Peak Summer Travel Week

Old Navy is giving away free gas to customers hitting the road to celebrate Independence Day, one of the busiest holidays for car travel in the U.S. The brand will fuel up vehicles at select RaceTrac stores across five states, while also treating a few lucky radio listeners and social fans nationwide to gas gift cards.

The Best iPhone cases (especially if you like Harry Styles!)

Wow, many of you have seen this picture on Pinterest and asked for details.  A couple of years ago my daughter found this phone case and it totally reminded us of Harry Styles.  She even got her nailed painted to match.  What a fun and groovy vibe.  The case held up really well and she used it for a couple of years. She continues to upgrade to new cases from Wildflower. 

In my opinion, Wildflower iPhone cases offer great protection & durability, has a nice fit and a good grip...and most importantly nice patterns to fit your style

5 Must Have Amazon Purchases that I Used on our Recent Beach Trip

We just got back from a mini vacation to the Florida Panhandle, and I wanted to tell you about 5 products from Amazon that I purchased -- and loved -- on our trip.

Disclaimer: Affiliate links included in this article. 

Top 3 Gluten Free Snacks for a Road Trip

Packing snacks for a road trip is a must for my family of four -- saving us both time and money on the road.  Although I am the only one who follows a gluten free diet, I typically pack these three GF snacks because everyone loves them!

Top 5 Gifts for Dad this Father's Day

Father's Day is around the corner and I have put together a list of my Top 5 suggestions that dad is sure to enjoy this year. 

1. Tervis has a great collection of tumblers for dad!  You can find an array of collections from Star Wars to NFL to Guy Harvey.  Or better yet, design a personalized Tervis tumbler for dad this year!

4 Amazon Finds for Women this Summer

I love a good "find" and this Amazon Essentials dress is on the top of my list. At only $26 (and some colors as low as $16), I may order a second one.  The fabric is not too thin -- and not too thick.  Perfect for Florida summer.  Best of all it's machine washable.  In fact, very little ironing was necessary.

Hard Alcohol and Wine Sales Up During Covid, But Beer Sales Are Down

According to a recent data analysis by Ibotta, the leading cash-back app helping people save money with their everyday purchases, there seems to be a lot of truth to this!

Overall, spirits and hard liquor is up the most with a 33% increase during the first part of the pandemic when compared with 2019 sales, followed by wine at a 12% increase. Surprisingly, beer sales overall are down, with a few exceptions! 

Get ready for summer with this adorable Gingham Dress

I recently found this adorable Gingham Plaid Sundress on Amazon for under $30.

This great dress is available in FOUR colors: Red, Yellow, Light Blue and Black.

Build-A-Bear Launches New Subscription Box, Delivering Build-A-Bear Workshop Inspired Fashions and Furry Friends

A New Surprise Delivery Every Season with the Build-A-Bear Cubscription Box

Build-A-Bear is now bringing exclusive furry friends and Build-A-Bear-themed items to doorsteps as a new seasonal subscription box. The Cubscription Box by ​Build-A-Bear ships quarterly with an assortment of exclusive products that are not available anywhere else. Each box contains a 12-inch exclusive bear and 5-8 items that will have cubscribers twinning with their new best friend. The Build-A-Bear-themed items include kids’ apparel, accessories, stationery, and more!

Items in the Cubscription Box by Build-A-Bear are made by the subscription box experts at CultureFly, who have developed a mix of fun, functional products and uniquely Build-A-Bear. Each box is produced in limited quantities exclusively for subscribers, or Cubscribers.

Build-A-Bear is excited to reveal the adorable, exclusive Build-A-Bear furry friend and coordinating kids’ apparel, accessories, and more in the Winter 2019 Cubscription box. The inaugural Cubscription Box by ​Build-A-Bear for Winter 2019 is themed “Magical Winter.” Subscriptions are open with the first box shipping in early December 2019 just in time for the holidays. Subscriptions are $29.99 per box. Those who subscribe to an annual plan will get a special FREE Birthday Box that will be delivered just before the subscriber’s birthday.

Subscriptions are open now at Cubscription.com. There is a limited supply so make sure to sign up for yours right away!

Saks Fifth Avenue Reveals Details Of Holiday Window Concept Inspired By Disney's "Frozen 2"

Holiday Window Unveiling to Include Live Performance by Idina Menzel, the voice of Elsa in Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Frozen 2

Saks Fifth Avenue Holiday 2019 Light Show Rendering

Saks Fifth Avenue today reveals additional details of their holiday collaboration with Disney. The two brands will come together to delight shoppers this holiday season with dazzling "Frozen 2"-inspired windows, exclusive product and a one-of-a-kind in-store experience.

"The holiday season is an important moment for Saks and gives us an opportunity to stretch our imagination," said Marc Metrick, President of Saks Fifth Avenue. "Each year we look for ways to entertain our customers and connect on an emotional level through meaningful experiences. Our collaboration with Disney is the perfect way to capture the joy of this time of year and we look forward to bringing this one-of-a-kind concept to all stores across the country and our digital platforms."

Saks will debut its holiday windows on Monday, November 25 and continue its long-standing tradition of holding a spectacular holiday show in the middle of Fifth Avenue. The epic unveiling event will include a musical performance by Idina Menzel (voice of Elsa) of a song from the "Frozen 2" Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, along with a song from her upcoming holiday album, "Christmas: A Season of Love." The production will also include a 10-story-tall theatrical light show and entertainment from a 50-person choir, along with a flurry of Disney entertainers. The event will be livestreamed on Saks.com/Holiday and Disney.com.

DISNEY'S "FROZEN 2"-INSPIRED WINDOWS

Inspired by Disney's "Frozen 2," Saks's center six windows of the flagship store will bring scenes from the film to life.  The displays will depict Elsa and Anna's extraordinary journey to discover truths about their past while encountering the four spirits of nature. Adored characters Olaf, Kristoff, and Sven will also appear throughout the vignettes as they champion the sisters along the way.

HOLIDAY WINDOWS

Saturated color, texture and cavernous landscapes inform the overall composition of the remaining windows that wrap the building. Theatrical lighting in bold hues illuminate the landscapes and create a surreal environment—a perfect backdrop for mannequins dressed in over-the-top designer fashion.

Also featured is Ferrero Rocher® premium chocolate. The two corner windows of the store will display the brand's signature pyramids made of fine hazelnut chocolates delicately wrapped in gold foil.

DISNEY'S FROZEN 2 ENCHANTED FOREST EXPERIENCE AT SAKS

Disney's Frozen 2 Enchanted Forest Experience at Saks will be an immersive, wonder-filled experience that will offer visitors the chance to be transported to the spectacular world of "Frozen 2" and experience Anna and Elsa's journey through the enchanted forest, encountering the four spirits of nature and other beloved characters along the way. Located on the ninth floor of the New York flagship store, the activation will run from Tuesday, November 26 through Tuesday, December 24. Tickets are $5 each (+ taxes and fees) and Saks will donate $5 from the sale of each ticket to New York-Presbyterian Phyllis and David Komansky Children's Hospital. Tickets can be purchased at Saks.com/Frozen2.

Saks-Disney Logo

SAKS X DISNEY FROZEN 2 PRODUCT

Currently, special "Frozen 2"-inspired fashion, accessories and giftable items are available at all U.S. Saks stores and on Saks.com. Created in collaboration with designers like Roberto Coin, Converse and S'well, shoppers can purchase product inspired by the beautiful imagery and elements from the film. Exclusive to Saks are "Frozen 2" limited-edition Elsa and Anna dolls. Designed by Disney store artists, the dolls will awaken a new spirit of adventure in Disney fans and collectors alike.

GIFT GIVING & SERVICES

• Holiday Gift Guide: Customers can find Saks's ultimate guide to exclusive gifts and designer delights within the 120-page Holiday Book, featuring Idina Menzel on the cover. Available now in stores and on Saks.com.
• Holiday Concierge: For the holiday season, Saks offers a dedicated digital concierge to assist customers with all of their gift-giving needs, including, shipping, delivery, or simply finding that perfect present. Customers may access the holiday concierge 24/7 on Saks.com/Locations/Services beginning on November 15.
• Holiday Gift Guide Chatbot: Available on Facebook Messenger beginning on November 15, the Holiday Gift Guide Chatbot curates the perfect gift recommendations from Saks.com based on the user's needs. To access, visit Saks Fifth Avenue's Facebook page and click "Send Message."
• Fifth Avenue Club: Customers can make an appointment with the Fifth Avenue Club (FAC), located at select Saks stores, and work with an expert Style Advisor to find everything from gifts for loved ones, to a must-have holiday look. Throughout the holiday season, the FAC will also offer gift wrapping and assistance with shipping.
• The International Lounge: Shoppers from abroad can visit the International Lounge, which offers a multi-lingual concierge to assist with service needs including luggage and coat storage, package pick-up and more.

For more information, kindly visit saks.com,

Top 5 Places to Shop for Frozen 2 Merchandise

Disney's Frozen 2 is coming to theaters November 22 and as you can imagine, there is lots of new merchandise hitting the shelves this weekend. 

Here are the Top 5 places I suggest you shop for Frozen 2 merchandise:

1. Build-A-Bear Workshop

Frozen fans can join Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven on their magical journey by making their own Disney Frozen 2 furry friends in the Workshop. Guests who visit a Build-A-Bear Workshop will also get to experience fun, interactive activities based on the movie and an extra-special Frozen 2 heart ceremony when making a Frozen 2 stuffed animal.

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2. Claire's Boutique

Only available at Claire's the new Disney's Frozen 2 collection is inspired by the breadth of new colors and epic adventures featured in the film, as well as the beautifully evolved looks of Anna and Elsa. The collection includes: scrunchies, hair clips and headbands galore partnered with glittering jewelry, cosmetics and dress up sets to create the perfect Frozen 2 looks. Gorgeous gift sets, enchanting stationery, soft toys, dolls and drinkware complete the collection making perfect gifts for your loved ones. There are 82 products, 67 of which are only available at Claire's, making the collection amongst the largest assortment outside of Disney retail locations.

3. Lego Store

Great news Lego lovers. A new line of  Disney Frozen 2 merchandise has been released. Elsa's Jewelry Box Creation is amazing, as well as the new Arendelle Castle Village.  Don't forget to sign up for the VIP rewards program at Lego stores or online.

4. Tervis.com

Tervis released a few new Frozen 2 design this week that you must check out. My favorite is the stainless steel Disney - Frozen 2 Be You (pictured below) and the Olfa Happy Memories design.  Reminder that members get free shipping with the new program. 

5. shopDisney + Loungefly

Disney, is the obvious choice for all Frozen 2 merchandise.  From children's dress up costumes and hairbows to mugs and Christmas ornaments, you're sure to find something new. I am especially loving the new Olaf mini backpack by Loungefly!

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Pinterest Win: Decorating my Teen Daughter's Bedroom

A few months ago my 13 year old daughter saw this picture (above) and asked me to recreate it for her. I think we did a fairly good job. In fact, I would call this a Pinterest Win. 

We found all the bedding at Target:

White Triple Diamond Comforter with Shams

Textured Faux Fur gray body pillow cover

Chenille yellow throw pillows

Textured Faux Fur Gray Throw Blanket 

Chenille gold chunky knit blanket

The black wire basket on the wall came from HomeGoods,
but similar products can be found on Amazon.

We found the White vanity with Mirror from Amazon (but didn't use the stool).
Instead we got a big gray fur ball chair ball from PB Teen.
Although it is hard to tell in these pics, the walls are painted a light gray.

We later added the PB Teen Chloe Double Bar Jewelry Stand -- A great place to keep her necklaces, scrunchies and bracelets.

(2023 update: no longer available but THIS new one Pottery Barn Teen Heirloom Necklace Stand is a great option too!)

NOTE: The above organizer is no longer available at Pottery Barn Teen, but I found a couple of similar ones on Amazon at a cheaper price.

(Affiliate links, no cost to you)

So what do you think? Personally, I am pleased with her new gray and yellow bedroom! 

(Theirs vs Mine)

Barnie's 49 Special Blend to Benefit those Impacted by the Pulse Tragedy

The year was 1996. I remember it well because it was my first winter in Orlando.  It was one of those wet, cold, nasty days where you really want to stay inside, under a blanket, but a friend convinced me to head to the mall with her to finish up Christmas shopping.

As we walked by Barnie's Coffee Shop and my friend suggested we grab a cup of Santa's White Christmas.  At the time I was not a coffee drinker and so I ordered a nice cup of hot chocolate. Somehow, as we sat down to rest for a few minutes, our drinks got switched and ... It was love at first sip.  And also the beginning of my addiction relationship with coffee.  Although Barnie's Coffee + Tea has gone through changes, one thing has remained the same, Barnie's makes a damn good coffee!

This week, Barnie’s Coffee + Tea, Orlando’s original coffee company, unveiled its “49” Special Blend Coffee during the One Orlando Alliance’s Love and Kindness on the Lawn event. 

Starting tomorrow, Wednesday, June 12th, proceeds from the sale of each bag of coffee will go directly to One Orlando Alliance to benefit those impacted by the Pulse tragedy.

“Barnie’s is humbled to support One Orlando Alliance in their ongoing work of helping those impacted by the Pulse tragedy and we support their mission of creating a safer, more inclusive community for all,” said Scott Uguccioni Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at Barnies Coffee & Tea Co. “The 49 coffee is our way we can give back, honor the victims and share the message of love and kindness, one bag at a time.”

“We are delighted that Barnie’s is supporting the work of our coalition. It is up to all of us, in the Central Florida community, to ensure that those affected by the Pulse tragedy continue to receive the support and services needed to heal,” said Jennifer Foster, Executive Director of One Orlando Alliance. “The proceeds from the 49 Special Blend will go a long way to making this possible and we are grateful that Barnie’s have stepped up in such a thoughtful and innovative way.”

The 49 Special Blend priced at $12.49, will be available beginning June 12th at BarniesCoffee.com and can be shipped worldwide. It will also be sold at Barnie’s Café in Winter Park, Florida and various retailers around Orlando.

10 Beauty Product Marketing Claims Deconstructed

Denver plastic surgeon opens up about some inaccurate beauty claims marketers use to entice consumers.

We are all subject to marketing and advertising on a daily basis. Nowadays it seems like even thinking about skin care will get you bombarded with countless ads and sponsored post on social media. But how trustworthy are some of the marketing buzzwords used to describe the effects of skincare merchandise? We reached out to an anti-aging expert and board-certified Denver Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Manish Shah. Shah advocates helping consumers understand what this frequently used language means. Dr. Shah is also an ethical patient safety advocate.

“There are many ways marketers attempt to pull the wool over the eyes of the consumer with empty phrases and jargon,” comments Dr. Shah. “A phrase such as ‘clinically tested’ and ‘doctor recommended’ is used to mislead consumers into thinking a certain product has more credibility than it actually does.” However, Dr. Shah explains, when these phrases are used it says nothing for the results of the clinical tests or what the products were tested for. In terms of products being “Doctor recommended,” Shah warns that “consumers don’t know what doctor recommended the product in most cases and if those doctors are getting some sort of incentive for endorsement.”

Dr. Shah shares common marketing jargon phrases used to mislead consumers:

A Product that claims “Patented Technology”

“Patents are not necessarily a foolproof sign that something is groundbreaking or effective,” explains Dr. Shah. “Marketers use this language to convey innovation and superiority that their product might not necessarily have over its competitors,” he says. Patents are sometimes authorized through technicality instead of breakthrough meaning any new combination of ingredients, methods or production process can be patented as long as it is new.

“Maximum strength”

This is a term used often by skin cleansers and moisturizers. “It’s a relative term and the consumer doesn’t really know what it is relevant to. It’s language that entices the shopper to make the purchase without really telling them how it accomplishes ‘maximum strength’ results,” says the Denver Plastic Surgeon.

“Clinical strength”

From painkillers to hydrating serums, companies love to bill their products as having “clinical strength.” Dr. Shah says consumers should practice healthy skepticism with such claims. “A product that claims it has clinical strength, in many cases, could have been tested by the doctors developing it. If you think about it you can’t really pinpoint what that phrase means because it is relative and we have no context as to what the company considers clinical strength,” says Shah. The perception, explains Dr. Shah, is that the product is better because the world clinical makes it sound more credible.

 “For All Skin Types”

“This is a difficult promise to deliver on,” says Shah who has practiced his specialty for 14 years. “Not all skin is the same. If someone has an allergy to an ingredient or some form of dermatitis they really should speak to their doctor about what products are best to include in their regiment instead of blindly trusting a label,” he says.

“FDA Approved” 

The FDA has different protocols for skincare products that make cosmetic claims as opposed to those that make more medical claims such as promising to increase production of collagen in the skin. Since that is a body function the FDA treats those differently than normal skincare products. However the FDA just stipulates that the product being sold is safe to use in the manner in which it is directed to be used “FDA approval is not credential that shows the superiority of results,” says Dr. Shah. The plastic surgeon recommends that you not be sold on the sole factor of an FDA approval.

“Anti-Aging, Revitalizing, or Age Defying”

We’ve all seen these on the labels of some cream or serum or advertised in a commercial where beautiful models and actresses are displayed in all of their airbrushed and well-lit perfection. “These terms are somewhat misleading in that they give the perception of an unrealistic turning back of the clock,” says Dr. Shah. To many consumers viewing an advertisement, it might seem like buy and using that product will help them look like an ageless actress and that is not accurate.” Aging gracefully and maintaining a more youthful look has a lot to do with nutrition, exercise, genes, consistent skin care, stress levels, and cosmetic procedures when necessary. But according to Shah, people cannot cling onto just one aspect in order to look their best and no one product will reverse the clock.

Medical-Looking Packaging

Be wary of bottles that look like test tubes, labels or packages that include a medical or first aid cross, or feature type that looks like Rx suggesting that it’s a prescription-strength formula even though it’s sold over the counter.

Botanical

Dr. Shah explains that “An actual botanic is technically an ingredient that is derived from a plant. But, again, “botanical” may be used in advertising to refer to something that is synthetic but acts similar to a plant-based ingredient.”

Instant Results

Keep in mind that “instant results” aren’t the same as “long-term results.” Meaning, you may use a product that gives you instant moisture or has a quick-acting firming effect, but those results may fade after a few hours and require reapplication. Dr. Shah’s final advice: “Check a product to make sure it specifies whether its “instant” effects are long lasting or short term.”

Firming

What you think it means: Proven to make skin look tauter.
What it really means: Essentially nothing. “There is no objective way to measure firming,” says Dr. Shah “When a brand says their product has been shown to firm your skin, that claim can only be based on very subjective consumer perception.”



About the Expert:  Dr. Manish Shah M.D., F.A.C.S. is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Dr. Shah’s specialties include revision facial aesthetic surgery, rhinoplasty (“nose reshaping”), and aesthetic surgery of the breast (breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction). He is, however, well-trained in all areas of aesthetic surgery. Dr. Shah’s aim is to obtain a natural appearing transformation that complements the real you.

A Great Gift for Kids -- Or Kids at Heart!

Blast from the past...updated for today's generation.

I was able to introduce my son to Pac-Man yesterday, and boy did we have some fun! The super easy "plug and play" device is a great gift for kids (or kids at heart) this Christmas season. 

The new Blast! wireless controller was super easy to set up. In fact, my 11 year old did it all on his own in a matter of minutes.  (Your read that right -- WIRELESS!!  All Blast! entertainment products come with a USB-powered HDMI dongle that plugs directly into your TV and an ergonomic six-button wireless gamepad. ) 

Every Blast! includes high definition video output, an intuitive menu system, save and resume game functionality, and the ability to rewind a game in progress to recover from a play misstep. An optional second wireless gamepad can be purchased for games that support two-player Blast! family products retail for $19.99 - $39.99.

Best of all, it's just like I remembered!!

Here's a list of Blast! products available from AtGames:

Atari Flashback Blast! Vol. 1 features 20 Atari 2600 classics like Centipede, Millipede, and Yars’ revenge. 

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Atari Flashback Blast! Vol. 2 features 20 Atari 2600 classics like Adventure, Asteroids, and Missile Command. 

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Atari Flashback Blast! Vol. 3. features 20 Atari 2600 paddle-based classics like Breakout, Pong, and Warlords. The Activision Flashback Blast! features 20 of the most iconic Activision home classics, including Pitfall!, H.E.R.O., and River Raid. 

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AND the newest Blast! release...

The Legends Flashback Blast! features Space Invaders and an additional 11 favorites like Burnin’ Rubber and Jungle Hunt. The Bandai Namco Flashback Blast! features 8 arcade mainstays, including Pac-Man, Galaga, and Dig Dug.  The Legends Flashback console features a legendary selection of 50 built-in games and is primed for maximum family fun with the inclusion of two six button controllers.

Blast! family products retail for $19.99 - $39.99 (at major retailers).

About AtGames: AtGames Digital Media Inc. (atgames.net) is a leader in innovative consumer-oriented interactive entertainment products. The company leverages the latest technology to develop and publish its best-selling classic video game products for worldwide distribution. AtGames is based in Los Angeles, with international offices in Taipei and Shenzhen.

Hotel Transylvania 3 is coming on Digital September 25

Make It a Fun, Halloween Monster Movie Night and Complete Your Hotel Transylvania Movie Collection

 

Includes a Monster Dance Party Dance Along, Three All-New Scary-Oke Sing Alongs, a Vampire Make Over Tutorial, Two Mini Movies and More!

 Available on Digital HD September 25 and on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack & DVD on October 9

The Drac Pack is back with HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 3, which will make its debut on Digital HD September 25, and on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack and DVD on October 9, just in time to for a spooky, fun, family movie night right before Halloween! This must-own family comedy, which has grossed more than $425 million in theaters worldwide to date, follows in the tradition of the blockbuster Hotel Transylvania franchise when Mavis surprises Dracula with a family voyage on a luxury, haunted monster cruise ship. Of course, the rest of the Drac Pack has to tag along, and that’s when things get a little…batty. The monsters are having a great time, indulging in all of the shipboard fun the cruise has to offer, from monster volleyball to colossus-sized buffets and exotic excursions, but then the unexpected happens when Drac falls for the ship’s mysterious (and dangerous) human captain Ericka. The third film in this family-friendly monster franchise is the best reviewed installment and you’re invited along on the haunted cruise vacation!

The all-star voice cast is back, along with some new faces as well including Adam Sandler (Grown-Ups), Andy Samberg (TV’s “Brooklyn Nine-Nine”), Selena Gomez (Spring Breakers), Kevin James (Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2), David Spade (TV’s “Rules of Engagement”), Steve Buscemi (TV’s “Boardwalk Empire”), Keegan Michael Key (TV’s “Key and Peele”), Molly Shannon (TV’s “Saturday Night Live”), Fran Drescher (TV’s “The Nanny”), Kathryn Hahn (Bad Moms), Jim Gaffigan (Super Troopers 2) and Mel Brooks (Young Frankenstein).

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 3 is filled with more than an hour of engaging bonus materials including three “All-New Scary-Oke Sing Alongs,” a monster dance party dance along to “I See Love” by Joe Jonas featuring Jonas Blue, plus a fun zing-tastic read along with Drac.  Families can enjoy all the frightful fun with a “Plan Your Own Spook-tacular Sleepover” feature and “Vampire Make Over: Mavis and Drac Tutorial,” and go behind-the-scenes to explore the amazing talent who bring these characters to life in “Behind the Screams – The Voices of Hotel Transylvania 3.

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 3 is directed by three-time Emmy®-winning director Genndy Tartakovsky and written by Genndy Tartakovsky and Michael McCullers. The film is produced by Michelle Murdocca. Hotel Transylvania 3 is presented by Sony Pictures Animation.

 Bonus Materials Include:

• Three All New Scary-Oke Sing Alongs: Sing along to three Hotel Transylvania 3 inspired songs with your favorite characters!

1. “Dennis Had a Giant Dog” – Sung by Dennis & Winnie
2. “Monsters Like to Party Down” – Sung by Johnny
3. “Oh These Wolf Pups” – Sung by Wanda Werewolf

• Plan Your Own Spook-tacular Sleepover: This feature will give you all details on how to make your own sleepover spook-tacular! From snacks to crafts to games and more, follow these steps to create a Hotel T sleep-over with your friends and family, the perfect setting to binge watch all 3 Hotel Transylvania movies.
• Vampire Make Over: Mavis and Drac Tutorial: Learn how to turn yourself into your favorite Hotel Transylvania 3 characters.
• Behind the Screams – The Voices of Hotel Transylvania 3: Step behind the "screams" with the returning stars and hilarious new cast to see how these characters are brought to life in the recording booth.
• Johnny’s Home Movies (Franchise Recap): Johnny brings viewers up to speed on what’s happened in the Hotel Transylvania franchise so far.
• “I See Love” Monster Dance Party Dance Along: Get up and get moving to this haunting monster mash.
• Drac’s Zing-tastic Read Along: It's storytime with your favorite characters have a silly tale about Drac's search for a Zing!  Read along or sit back and enjoy!
• Two Mini Movies (rated G): Two mini-features that will have you howling: Puppy and Goodnight Mr. Foot. 

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 3 has a run time of approximately 97 minutes and is rated PG for some action and rude humor.

ABOUT SONY PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (SPHE) is a Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) company. SPE is a subsidiary of Sony Entertainment Inc., which is a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production, acquisition, and distribution; television production, acquisition, and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies. SPE’s Motion Picture Group includes film labels Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, TriStar Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, and Sony Pictures Classics. For additional information, visit http://www.sonypictures.com/.  

ABOUT SONY PICTURES ANIMATION

Sony Pictures Animation produces a variety of animated and family entertainment for audiences around the world, including comedy hit franchises such as The Smurfs, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, and Hotel Transylvania. Next for the division are Genndy Tartakovsky’s Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation, in theaters now; the groundbreaking animated feature Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse from the minds of Phil Lord and Christopher Miller in December 2018; the original feature comedy The Mitchells Vs. The Machines in January 2020; and the animated musical Vivo, featuring original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, in November 2020. Sony Pictures Animation, which was founded in 2002, is a division of the Sony Pictures Motion Pictures Group. 

Website: http://www.sonypicturesanimation.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SonyPicturesAnimation

Twitter: http://twitter.com/sonyanimation

Tumblr: http://sonyanimation.tumblr.com/

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/SonyAnimation

Father's Day Gift Ideas

Father's Day is just around the corner! Get Dad something he will (actually) enjoy this year. 

Beer School: A Crash Course in Craft Beer by Jonny Garrett and Brad Evans, $17.95

An insider's guide to craft beer, the world's greatest drink! Since its invention 6,000 years ago, beer has come a long way. The legends of the craft beer industry have made sure everyone's within reach of great beer. But, how do you make sure you get your hands on the right brew? Can you learn how to make beer? Welcome to Beer School, brought to you by the heroes of the Craft Beer Channel, a guide to everything you need to know about the wide and wonderful beers of the world. In Beer School, we define and detail the finest artisan crafts, including ales, lagers, porters, stouts, and IPA beers. Plus, with the lowdown on everything from hop varieties and barrel aging, to serving temperatures and glassware, Beer School helps you learn how to make beer and get the best from every sip. View this book on Amazon!

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ZeroFriction Spectra Supertubes, $24.99

Zero Friction has been creating quality products at affordable prices since 2005.  Widely known for its one-size compression fit gloves and the DistancePro™ GPS Glove, Zero Friction recently introduced the new Spectra™ Supertubes. This unique product puts Dad’s favorite golf accessories in one tube!

The new Spectra Supertubes include:
• One (1) Men’s performance universal compression fit glove
• 3 Spectra matte finish golf balls (2-piece construction)
• 10 ZFT Maxx 2 ¾” 3-prong tees

Best of all, the Supertubes are available in 6 cool neon colors (neon lime, neon red, neon orange, neon fuchsia, neon white and neon yellow). Available at Dunhams, PGA Superstores, Academy Sports and online. $24.99 MSRP

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Great Book of Grilling: 300 Tasty Recipes for Every Meal 

Driven by tradition and six generations of family ownership, the Char-Broil team has packed Great Book of Grilling: 300 Tasty Recipes for Every Meal with hundreds of easy-to-follow grill recipes that will have family and friends licking their fingers. The book will be released in May 2018 under Fox Chapel Publishing's imprint Creative Homeowner. 

There are also expert tips for brining, smoking, and marinating that are guaranteed to yield succulent, flavorful ribs, seafood, chicken, and vegetables; plus the latest tools and techniques for getting great results on charcoal and gas grills, rotisseries, infrared cookers, and The Big Easy. Over 300 mouth-watering color photographs illustrate these delicious recipes. Available on Amazon. 

Slammers: Refuel your Kids with the Right Nutrition!

I really don't want to throw a bunch of "prepackaged" foods in my kids' lunchboxes, but ya'll time and convenience gets the best of me. I really TRY to pack healthy but it's not always easy. I was excited when I heard about Slammers!

Not only do Slammers taste great, but they’re a good source of essential vitamins and minerals to keep kids in tip-top shape.

Slammers are the organic snack packed with healthy fruits, vegetable sand vitamins.

And best of all--THEY TASTE GREAT and contain NO artificial flavors!

Packed with organic, vegetables, and superfoods, Slammers Snacks by Kids Gourmet are a fun, easily digestible alternative to sugary snacks, bars, and chips normally geared towards kids.

There area SIX flavors. No nuts. No gluten.    

(Two things we avoid in my house!) 

Slammers come in seven different fruity flavors that introduce kids to mango, acai, yumberry, kiwi, and pomegranate.

For lunch, my kids like them chilled. But at home, I like to put them in the freezer.
And here's a hint...If your kids is SUPER picky, you can "sneak" these superfoods into a smoothie.  

So where do you find these great snacks? Major retailers include Krogers, Publix, Walmart; however, you can try the store locator HERE.

Disclaimer: I received a free sample of the product in exchange for a fair and honest review. 

New Gift Ideas for Mother's Day

Mother's Day is coming up on Sunday, May 13th, and if you are anything like me, you are already looking for something new for mom this year.  I have a few ideas for you to consider! 

Viva Editions is proud to announce the publication of "THE MOMMY MOJO MAKEOVER: 28 Tools to Reclaim Yourself + Reignite Your Relationship" by Dana B. Myers, founder of Booty Parlor. The book is currently ranked as a #1 New Release in Women's Sexual Health on Amazon!

THE MOMMY MOJO MAKEOVER: 28 Tools to Reclaim Yourself + Reignite Your Relationship by Dana B. Myers

Women's Interest / Family & Relationships / 

Sexual Instruction / Personal Growth / Self-Help

Paperback Original | 364 pages

Viva Editions | April 2018

Paperback: $17.95 | 9781627782821

Ebook: $12.99 | 9781627782838  

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Starting at just $13, Lookalu is an ideal gift for new and soon-to-be mothers. Lookalu is a smartphone gadget that helps parents easily take the cutest baby photos. Clip it onto your phone, rattle it so your baby looks up, and snap your shot. It's small & portable, easy to clip on and off, and fits all phones and cases without scratching. Lookalu is also great for family selfies and video chatting! 

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Grab mom a bottle of wine (or two!) from Kerr Cellars!  Cristie Kerr, an accomplished golfer on the LPGA Tour has 20 wins, including two major champions and over $19 million in career earnings. Not only is Cristie busy on tour for 10 months of the year, but she also juggles her family and her growing business/passion KERR Cellars in Napa.

Both of her wine projects, Curvature Wines and Kerr Cellars, are crafted by award-winning winemakers with a meticulous attention to detail and produced from some of the most renowned vineyards of the Napa and Sonoma Valleys.  The handcrafted wines are only available on a limited basis and ships directly to 48 states.

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Tervis has out a few great designs for Mother's Day, including this Simply Southern® - Jungle Pattern (available in Nana, Mom and Grandma).  It's available in 16 oz tumbler, 24 oz tumbler, coffee mug and water bottle. ($12.99 to $25.99) 

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To keep her looking fly around town, the new Christie Brinkley Authentic Beauty Collection is the way to go. 

Christie Brinkley Authentic Beauty Lip Beautifully Moisture-Rich Lipstick, $19.00 at Kohls.com.

This super-creamy formula, delivers superb, single-stroke color saturation. High-performance, micro-milled pigments provide for effortless, even, extraordinary coverage and incredible color payout, creating a fuller lip illusion.

Color Options: Bliss (soft natural brown), Stunner (soft brick red), Charm (soft neutral mauve)

Christie Brinkley Authentic Beauty In A Blink Instant Volumizing Mascara $18.00 at Kohls.com

This anti-aging, peptide-fueled formula outlines and defines lashes, delivering instant volume. Color-true pigment and a lash-lengthening polymer create incredible intensity and defy smearing and smudging. Lifts, curls and brings lashes to new heights with super buildable, sensational color. Pro-brush delivers a perfect amount of product for exceptional, lump-free extension.