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Lugz, Women’s Dahlia Zip Suede Moc Toe Fringe Slipper Boot Review & Giveaway!!! #HolidayGiftGuide

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Most of the country has been experiencing a sudden shift in temperature and the first snows of the upcoming Winter.  For those of us in cold climates, it’s so important to stay warm and comfortable.  I recently received the Lugz, Women’s Dahlia Zip Moc Toe Fringe Slipper Boot, and I am in love!  These cute suede boots are so comfortable and warm.  I wear them all day and the sole lets me run out to get the kids on or off the bus or other similar errands with ease.  The zipper in the back makes getting them on and off a breeze and allows a great fit!  The cotton drill lining is warm and cozy and will keep your tootsies toasty even when stepping out for some more wood for the fire!  Boot is available in Chestnut or Black in sizes 5-11 and retails for $74.99.  Right now there is a great Holiday Blowout Sale going on at Lugz.comBuy One Get One 50% Off Plus Free Shipping with code: BOGO13!!!

 

Lugz Slipper Boot Black

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Mommy Ramblings thinks the Lugz Dahlia Moc Suede Slipper Boot makes a great gift this holiday season.  You can find the Women’s Dahlia Zip Back Boot on our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide!!!

Lugz Black Moc Boot

Lugz Open Zipper

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Lugz is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings and one lucky blog reader will win a pair of Black Dahlia Zip Moc Toe Fringe Boots!!!  Thank you Lugz for the review boots and for sponsoring this stylish giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

Lugz, Women’s Black Dahlia Suede Moc Fringe Slipper Boot Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter widget below.  Good Luck!!!

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Artsi, Plusheez Pals Bella Craft Kit Review & Giveaway!!! #HolidayGiftGuide

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When I was growing up, latch hook rug and wall hanging kits were very popular.  It was an easy craft that literally anyone could do, but it took a long time to finish and was very tedious.  If you are looking for a fun, easy, craft idea for kids that will not require them to invest weeks or months to complete, you should check out the Artsi Plusheez kits.  We recently received an owl named Bella to review.

The Plusheez Pals Bella craft is so easy my four-year old could do it.  My little guys both were into this craft and as my four-year old put it, “It’s like you are giving the owl a shot!”  They were nearly finished when they took a break to play outside but they were able to complete it very easily and it’s so cute.  They got all excited to be able to make an adorable pillow to give to their cousin.

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Artsi Owl Plusheez

Mommy Ramblings thinks the Plusheez Pals Bella Craft Kit makes a fun and creative gift so you will find it on our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide!!!

 

 

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Artsi is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!  One lucky blog reader will win a Plusheez Pals Bella kit!  Thank you to Artsi for the review kit and for sponsoring this creative giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!! Open to US residents.

Artsi, Plusheez Pals Bella Craft Kit Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

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Adobe, Photoshop Elements 12 Review & Giveaway!!! 2 Winners!!! #HolidayGiftGuide

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My photo editing software has long been Photoshop Elements.  I love the user-friendly format and have been using it for years.  I upgrade as the new versions come out and have recently upgraded to Photoshop Elements 12.  Every time a new version comes out it’s interesting to explore and find out the great new added features.

 

With Photoshop Elements 12 you will still be able to organize, edit, create, and share your photos but you can do it  more quickly and easily thanks to big, bold icons; a helpful Action bar; and the ability to choose from Quick, Guided, and Expert editing modes to fit your needs.  It has never been easier to sort and manage photos based on people, places, and events using new Organizer views. Find your photos using visual tags that represent people, places, pets, events, and objects.   Of course you will be able to create perfect shots from not so perfect pics with handy editing features that have been enhanced or added to Photoshop Elements 12!

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Content Aware Move lets you easily move objects in your photo to get things to look the way you want.  We all take shots where everyone is not where we want them, right?  Now, take a look at how easily you can fix that.

You can also straighten photos and use Content Aware Fill to fill in any missing background, fix a  pet’s eyes with the new pet eye feature edit, use Photomerge Group Shot to take the best faces from a series of group shots and get one spectacular picture.  I love this feature, and it has let me get the perfect family photo more times than I can count.
You can share your photos easily right to social media sites with ease because now these options are available not only in the Organizer like previous versions, but right in the editor in Photoshop Elements 12!!!  In the quick mode you can now add artistic touches to your photos to put your personal touch on your favorite photos.  Add embellishments and frames to make your photos stand out, look at the video below to see just how easy it is!
New filters are available that let you turn your photos into stunning illustrations.  Try using the Comic, Graphic Novel, and Pen & Ink filters to get the WOW without all the work!  Want step by step guidance?  Now there are added edits available in the Guided edit mode.  You can restore old photos, make a photo puzzle or add neat effects like the Zoom Burst with ease!
As a wife, mom of 5, blogger, writer, editor, hobby photographer and marketing director, I rely on Photoshop Elements to let me get the look I want as easily and as quickly as I can when editing as many photos as I do.  Having the ability to easily organize, edit and share the thousands of photos I take is essential to what I do.  Photoshop Elements is my go to choice of editing software because it’s so user-friendly and it lets me make my photos pop.  I am loving Photoshop Elements 12 and I know you will too.  Mommy Ramblings thinks Photoshop Elements 12 make a great Holiday Gift for the photo moms, dads, sisters, brothers, daughters, sons and more on your gift list.  You can find Photoshop Elements 12 on our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide!!!
System Requirements

Windows

  • 1.6GHz or faster processor (including single-core support)
  • Microsoft® Windows® XP with Service Pack 3, Windows Vista® with Service Pack 2, Windows 7, or Windows 8 & 8.1 (Note: Limited Camera Raw functionality on Windows XP)
  • 1GB of RAM (2GB for HD video functions)
  • 4GB of available hard-disk space (additional free space required during installation)
  • Color monitor with 16-bit color video card
  • 1024×768 display resolution
  • Microsoft DirectX 9 compatible display driver
  • DVD-ROM drive
  • Internet connection required for product activation*

Mac OS

  • 64-bit multicore Intel® processor
  • Mac OS X v10.7 through v10.9
  • 2GB of RAM
  • 4GB of available hard-disk space (additional free space required during installation)
  • 1024×768 display resolution
  • DVD-ROM drive
  • QuickTime 7 software required for multimedia features
  • Internet connection required for product activation*

Adobe is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!  Two lucky blog readers will win Photoshop Elements 12!  Thank you to Adobe for the review Photoshop Elements 12 and for sponsoring this photogenic giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!

Adobe Photoshop Elements 12 Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

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Newbridge Silverware, Silverplated Jewelry Review and Giveaway For Greta Garbo Watch!!! #HolidayGiftGuide

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Have you heard of Newbridge Silverware?   If you haven’t, you are in for a treat because I am going to share their jewelry with you.    Newbridge Silverware Jewelry  is renowned for Style and Quality and encompasses an extensive range of collections including their signature Silverplated Collection. Each collection includes pendants, earrings, necklaces, bangle, brooches and watches perfect for any gift occasion. I recently had a chance to review some of their  jewelry.  

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The first piece was a Celtic Swirl Bangle Cuff  Bracelet.  Inspired by the most notable of Irish symbols, the Celtic Swirl, this Celtic collection of jewelry is a true Irish heirloom. Designed and crafted in Ireland, it is guaranteed to become a real keepsake, to be treasured and enjoyed.  This is a gorgeous substantial bracelet with a great presentation right in the box!  This silver plated bangle has a protective anti-tarnish layer.  It makes a beautiful gift this holiday season!!!

Newbridge Bangle

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The next piece I received for review was The Waterlily Pendant.  The waterlily is one of the world’s most loved plants. The Waterlily Collection of jewelry endeavors to capture the pure essence and beauty of this stunning and elegant plant. Exuding femininity and grace, this pendant will be adored and treasured. Made in Ireland, fashioned by centuries old craft techniques, for generations to enjoy.  This pendant is gorgeous and comes on a nice long adjustable chain.  The pendant is also silver plated and treated with the easy care anti-tarnish layer.  Another great gift choice or for yourself.

Waterlily Pendant

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There are so many beautiful items available at Newbridge Silverware that Mommy Ramblings is adding it to our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide.

Newbridge Silverware  is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!  One luck blog reader will win the Greta Garbo Inspired Watch!  Thank you Newbridge for the review pieces and for sponsoring this beautiful giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

Newbridge Silverware Greta Garbo Watch:

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Epitomising the glamour and beauty of the Art Deco period, this stunning watch is part of the exquisite Greta Garbo collection. The essence of style and sophistication; the Newbridge Silverware collection of Greta Garbo jewelry is a magnificent and opulent range. Romance and glamour from a bygone era are brought back to life in this collection and bring a touch of allure and elegance to any stylish ensemble. Greta Garbo, a true icon of the age. Endorsed by the Garbo Estate and the Great Nephew of Greta Garbo.

Vintage style Greta Garbo IPS plated timepiece with high resistance to scratching, clear stone settings, black leather strap, Japanese movement stainless steel backing, presented in the Greta Garbo collection packaging. Full year parts and service guarantee.

Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter widget below.  Good Luck!!!

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Winning Moves Games, Super Big Boggle Review & Giveaway!!! #HolidayGiftGuide

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Boggle and Big Boggle are word games that have been a staple in our home since I was a kid.  It was my mom’s favorite game and always reminds me of her. Super Big Boggle from Winning Moves Games takes Boggle and Big Boggle to the ultimate extreme giving players a super-sized 6×6 grid including the NEW double letter cube and NEW blank cube!  This game is one I really like because it makes your brain work and is not some mindless board game.  If you have a word loving game player on your holiday list, you should check out Super Big Boggle at Winning Moves Games!!!  You will find Super Big Boggle on our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide!!!
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Big Boggle

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Winning Moves Games is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!  One lucky blog reader will win their own Super Big Boggle Game!  Thank you Winning Moves Games for the review game and for sponsoring this awesome giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

Winning Moves Games, Super Big Boggle Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:
Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter widget.

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Winning Moves Games, Tile Lock Super Scrabble Review & Giveaway!!! #HolidayGiftGuide

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Scrabble is probably one of the most popular board games out there and it has truly stood the test of time.  I love Scrabble, so I could not wait to try out Tile Lock Super Scrabble.  The Tile Lock feature gives Super Scrabble more versatility, allowing players to rotate he board and angle for the best view while holding the tiles firmly on the board.  Super Scrabble board has 441 spaces , 200 plastic letter tiles, 4 plastic tile racks, drawstring tile storage bag and illustrated instructions. 2-4 players can play and it is recommended for ages 8 and up!  So if you have not found the perfect gift for the game playing, word enthusiast on your holiday gift list yet, Tile Lock Super Scrabble is a W-I-N-N-E-R!!!  Mommy Ramblings has added Tile Lock Super Scrabble to our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide!!!

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Winning Moves Games is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!  One lucky blog reader will win their own Tile Lock Super Scrabble Game!  Thank you Winning Moves Games for the review game and for sponsoring this awesome giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

Winning Moves Games, Tile Lock Super Scrabble Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

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Wonder Forge, Justice League, Axis of Villains Strategy Game Review & Giveaway!!! #HolidayGiftGuide

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If you are looking for a great game for a super hero fan aged 8 and above; Wonder Forge, Justice League, Axis of Villains Strategy Game may be the perfect choice.  This strategy game from Wonder Forge will have all the players working as a team on the Justice League to defend the satellite by defeating all the villains on the game board before they destroy the satellite.

As a parent I like that this game is encouraging team work as that’s such an important skill for kids to develop and the strategy aspect makes them think.  My little ones are a little too young for this right now, but I can see that they are going to love it as they get a bit older.  Wonder Forge has so many great game ideas for everyone on your holiday list, so check out their website.

Mommy Ramblings has added Wonder Forge Justice League Axis of Villains Strategy Game to our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide!!!

Axis of Villains

 

Villains Strategy GamesWonder Forge is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings.  One lucky blog reader will win their own Justice League, Axis of Villains Strategy Game! Thank you Wonder Forge for the review game and for sponsoring this super giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

Wonder Forge, Justice League , Axis of  Villains Strategy Game Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

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New York Ravioli & Pasta Company, Jolie Ravioli Review and Giveaway!!!

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My little ones are picky eaters.  It sometimes seems like if I let them, they would eat the same things over and over.  They are reluctant to try new things for the most part, but they are getting better.  I recently made some Jolie Cheese Ravioli for them.  We’re Italian and they love their pasta!  Cheese ravioli were always a favorite of mine as a child and my kids are no different.

Jolie Ravioli

The ravioli cooked in about 9 minutes and I served them with tomato sauce and fresh grated Parmesan cheese.  I never saw my 6-year-old eat so fast and eat everything on his plate!  My four-year old was not far behind.  Mom had a taste too and they were delicious and tasted as good as any gourmet cheese ravioli that I’ve ever had.  I was happy to see that the ravioli stayed perfectly sealed during the cooking process so the cheese stayed tucked inside.  The shapes were fun for the kids and would be great to serve at birthday parties or kids play dates.

Jolie Ravioli

They have other great flavors like Cheese & Broccoli, Mac & Cheezy and Pizza-Rolis.  The 100% natural ravioli is an excellent source of protein and calcium and there are no trans fats, preservatives, artificial colors or additives.    The teddy bear, car, dinosaur, heart, rocket ship and star shapes are fun for kids and would be great to serve at birthday parties, holiday parties or kid’s play dates.  Try some today with your kids, I am certain they will love them as much as you will!!! Click HERE for a money-saving coupon for your retail store or purchase Jolie Ravioli in their online store along with their other pasta products HERE!  To see if there is a store that carries New York Ravioli & Pasta Company Products click HERE for  a listing.

 

Jolie Ravioli

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New York Ravioli & Pasta Company is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  One lucky blog reader will win 4 bags of Jolie Ravioli!  Thank you to the New York Ravioli & Pasta Company for the review Jolie Ravioli assortment and for sponsoring this delicious giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

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“Denton the Dragon in Tales of Bubbleland” Teaches Children Important Character Building Values Through Stories and Songs!!!

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Do you worry about the poor values and morals our kids are exposed to?  TV shows, music, performers and celebrities do not always present the kind of values we want to instill in our children.  Jeff Hutchins a father of 2 girls as well as a retired inventor and businessman, is the author of Denton the Dragon in Tales of Bubbleland.  This newly released book was written by Jeff to help parents and teachers teach children universal values like honesty, gratitude and how to treat others who are different.  The book contains 19 character building  stories  aimed at children 4-8 years old.


Bubbleland Collection

The book is available in both home and school editions.  The school edition is made with the teacher in mind and comes in three over-sized, beautifully illustrated storybooks with an 18 week curriculum guide.  Designed to be read aloud to one child or an entire class,  they include the unique ability to show pictures to the children while the text remains visible to the reader.  The home edition is a beautiful hardback book with 19-tales featuring Denton the Dragon and his friends.  Both books were written to help parents and teachers teach character development in a fun and engaging way.

Denton

Children will be captivated by the stories and illustrations while parents and teachers will appreciate the large, easy to read book and the powerful discussions they act as a springboard for.  School editions are perfect for homeschooling moms and dads too!  Denton is a lovable and naive dragon that lives in Bubbleland.   Children are able to  easily relate to Denton and  understand and discuss life lessons based on his silly yet insightful experiences.
Denton dragon

I recently read one of the included stories, Hilwin, the Boy with Wheels.  This story was about differences and Hilwin is a little boy who uses a wheelchair. Denton was curious and through his curiosity we learn about some of the things Hilwin experiences, like people looking at him funny.  In the end it’s less about the ways they are different and more about how much they  have in common that resonates with kids.  The end of the book even includes a way to expand and get children engaged in conversation about the story.  You can download, Hilwin, the Boy with Wheels for free HERE!

 

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A safe entertainment section for kids is coming soon to the website.  The music section of the website features a collection of songs inspired by the Tales of Bubbleand produced by Jeff Hutchins and George Scott and performed and written by singer/songwriters like Billy Jonas, Jane Kramer, Timmy Abell and the Swayback Sisters.  You can check out the song section yourself HERE and even download a free song!!!  You can find Denton The Dragon on Facebook, and Twitter .  Check it out for yourself and leave a comment letting us know what you think!

 

 


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Ticket Giveaway to Top of the Rock Observation Deck, Rockefeller Plaza in NYC & $50 in Spending Money!!!

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If you live in or near New York City or plan to be traveling in the area, we have a great giveaway!  Enter to win 4 tickets to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck  70 floors up at Rockefeller Plaza!  In addition to the tickets the winner will receive $50 spending money so they can go out to dinner, buy souvenirs, use in any of the shops or restaurants in the Plaza or anywhere in Manhattan.  The latter is sponsored by Hudson Park, an apartment complex aiming to attract city dwellers looking for an alternative to expensive Manhattan apartments.

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 RockeFeller Tree

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The observation deck at Rockefeller Center is an amazing location for sightseeing in NYC. Experience breathtaking views, 70 floors up, of Central Park and the gorgeous city skyline. Before or after your visit, walk the Rockefeller Center Plaza, which has some of the best shopping in New York City. Use the $50 provided by Hudson Park to buy yourself something cool or fashionable, or have a wonderful meal with your family or loved ones.  Hudson Park is a complex of Apartments in Yonkers, NY with beautiful views, spacious living, and easy commutes to Manhattan for work or entertainment.

Giveaway for 4 Tickets to The Observation Deck and $50 in Spending Money!!!  To enter use the Rafflecopter widget below.  Prize does not include transportation.  Good Luck!!!

Giveaway for 4 Tickets to The Observation Deck and $50 in Spending Money!!!

 

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