Ever since Kaelyn started preschool she's been even more into doing all sorts of learning activities when we're at home. I love it and want to encourage her love for learning in any way I can. That's why I appreciate Educational Insights and their great variety of learning toys, games, etc.

If you've been reading here for a while you know we're huge fans of Educational Insights! Their playful products offer both educational value and fun! No matter if you're a teacher or parent looking for educational toys, Educational Insights is your one stop shop for everything you could need.


There are many different products available on the Educational Insights website that I know my kids would absolutely love, particularly Kaelyn. That's why I was thrilled to learn we were going to have the opportunity to review one.

We were sent the Hot Dots Jr. Getting Ready For School

Features/Benefits:

• Targets colors, letters, numbers, shapes, patterns and more 
• Features Ace the Talking, Teaching Dog - an interactive stylus that uses fun sound effects encouraging phrases, and blinking lights to guide children through 160 different activities
• Provides immediate feedback that rewards progress and corrects mistakes
• Includes 80 richly illustrated double sided Activity Cards (pressure-sensitive and work with Talking Hot Dots Pen)
• Design for grades PreK+

When the Hot Dots Jr. set arrived, I knew both Kaelyn and Kaden would be thrilled to check it out.

Kaelyn was at school when it arrived, so Kaden got to try it out first. He's almost three and has been working on his shapes and colors a lot lately. We found the shapes and colors activity cards, got batteries in Ace the Talking, Teaching Dog and were ready to go. As Kaden went through pressing his pen to the activity card, Ace would let him know if his answer was correct or if he needed to try again. He gets VERY excited when he gets it right, and loves when the pen vibrates after a number of correct answers! It's great encouragement for him to keep trying to answer the questions.

Of course, when Kaelyn was home from school she wanted to try it out too. She's very much into numbers and letters, so the variety of activity cards focused on these skills were perfect for her! She enjoyed the challenge of answering the questions and they proved to be very educational for her. I definitely think the age level of 3-6 is right on for this activity.

I absolutely love that it's something both almost 3 year old and 5 year old can use and learn from. Not to mention the fact that it's a lot of fun too! They don't even realize they're learning because they're having so much fun. Ace the talking, teaching dog definitely helps with that. I may have to get another so both kids have their own!

Overall we've been really happy with Hot Dots Jr Getting Ready for School from Educational Insights! It's a lot of fun, and the educational value is great for my kids! With 160 interactive early learning lessons, this is something we'll be able to use and enjoy for a very long time. I would definitely recommend it to families with young children PreK-1.

Buy It: You can purchase the Hot Dots Jr. Getting Ready for School from Educational Insights for $39.99.

 

Win It: One very lucky reader is going to win a Hot Dots Jr. Getting Ready for School kit of their own! To enter, fill out the Rafflecopter giveaway below. If you don't see the form, click here.

a Rafflecopter giveaway



**The product for this review and giveaway were provided by Educational Insights. All opinions are my own.



 

Thanksgiving is a time of tradition when the family comes together for a feast, typically consisting of the same dishes year after year. Even if your grandma makes the best stuffing and your Great Aunt Wilma makes the most fabulous thanksgiving side dish recipes in the country, it might be nice to spice up the menu this year. Little changes are all that's necessary – and so easy to implement – when you have some delicious and distinctive cupcake recipes to work from.

Serve up any or all of these sweet specialties and make the holiday extraordinary; plus, they're the perfect size when you want just a little something after a huge Thanksgiving dinner. There's no need to forego the pies altogether, but you may find they take a back seat to these sweet, petite treats.

Pumpkin Delights

These little cakes bring a big burst of autumn flavor with the pleasing tastes of pumpkin and spice. Like a cross between a pumpkin pie and a pumpkin cheesecake, they're a great alternative when you want dessert that's a little different. Reduce the guilt when you reduce the fat by using Neufchatel cheese instead of traditional cream cheese.
Ingredients

·       1 pkg. (2-layer size) spice cake mix

·       1 cup sour cream

·       1 can (15 oz.) pumpkin

·       1/4 cup oil

·       3 eggs

·       1 pkg. (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened

·       1/4 cup butter, softened

·       1 tsp. vanilla

·       1 pkg. (16 oz.) powdered sugar

·       1-1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

Directions

·       Heat oven to 350ºF.

·       Beat first 5 ingredients with mixer until blended; spoon into 24 paper-lined muffin cups.

·       Bake 20 to 22 min. or until toothpick inserted in centers comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 min.; remove from pans. Cool completely.

·       Beat cream cheese, butter and vanilla in large bowl with mixer until blended. Gradually beat in sugar. Blend in cinnamon. Spread over cupcakes.

Red Velvet Petites
Maybe it's the deep red hue or the decadent combination of chocolate cake and cream cheese frosting. Either way, nothing says "holidays" like red velvet cupcakes. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to place a hole in the top of each cupcake to make filling them easy.
Ingredients

·       1 pkg. (2-layer size) red velvet cake mix

·       1 pkg. (3.9 oz.) chocolate instant pudding

·       1 pkg. (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened

·       1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened

·       1 pkg. (16 oz.) powdered sugar (about 4 cups)

·       1 cup thawed nondairy whipped topping

·       1 square white chocolate, shaved into curls

Directions

·       Prepare cake batter and bake as directed on package for 24 cupcakes, blending dry pudding mix into batter before spooning into prepared muffin cups. Cool.

·       Beat cream cheese and butter in large bowl with mixer until well blended. Gradually beat in sugar. Whisk in whipped topping. Spoon 1-1/2 cups into small freezer-weight resealable plastic bag; seal bag. Cut small corner off bottom of bag. Insert tip of bag into top of each cupcake to pipe about 1 Tbsp. frosting into center of cupcake.

·       Frost cupcakes with remaining frosting. Top with chocolate curls. Keep refrigerated.

Mini Boston Cream Pies
Thanksgiving dinner guests will feel extra special when you serve everyone their own individual Boston Cream Pies. They'll be impressed with the elegant dessert and you'll be the only one who knows how easy they are to make. Sift a light dusting of powdered sugar and cocoa powder over a paper doily placed on each dessert plate before setting the cupcakes on them to serve.
Ingredients

·       1 pkg. (2-layer size) yellow cake mix

·       1 pkg. (3.4 oz.) vanilla flavored instant pudding

·       1 cup cold milk

·       1-1/2 cups thawed nondairy whipped topping, divided

·       4 oz. semi-sweet chocolate

Directions

·       Heat oven to 350ºF.

·       Prepare cake batter and bake as directed on package for 24 cupcakes. Cool completely.

·       Beat pudding mix and milk with whisk 2 min. Let stand 5 min. Meanwhile, use serrated knife to cut cupcakes horizontally in half. Whisk 1/2 cup whipped topping into pudding; spoon onto bottom halves of cupcakes, using about 1 Tbsp. for each. Cover with cupcake tops.

·       Microwave remaining whipped topping and chocolate in small microwaveable bowl on HIGH 1-1/2 min. or until chocolate is almost melted, stirring after 1 min. Stir until blended. Let stand 15 min.; spread onto cupcakes. Refrigerate 15 min.

Chocolatey-Peanut Butter Cupcake Gems
A childhood favorite flavor combination meets sophisticated presentation when you pipe a silky peanut butter and pudding center into each moist, chocolate cupcake. A sure-fire favorite, these petite cupfuls of peanuty, chocolaty goodness are certain to become a new holiday tradition. Let these cupcakes cool completely before finishing them to prevent the filling and the glaze from melting.
Ingredients

·       1 pkg. (2-layer size) devil's food cake mix

·       1 pkg. (3.4 oz.) vanilla flavor instant pudding

·       1 cup cold milk

·       1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

·       1-1/2 cups thawed non-dairy whipped topping

·       4 oz. semi-sweet chocolate

·       1/4 cup dry roasted peanuts, chopped

Directions

·       Heat oven to 350°F.

·       Prepare cake batter and bake in 24 paper-lined muffin cups as directed on package. Cool 30 min. (Cupcakes still need to be warm to fill.)

·       Beat pudding mix and milk with whisk 2 min. Add peanut butter; mix well. Spoon into small freezer-weight resealable plastic bag; seal bag. Snip off one corner from bottom of bag. Insert tip of bag into center of each cupcake; pipe in about 1 Tbsp. filling.

·       Microwave whipped topping and chocolate in microwaveable bowl on HIGH 1-1/2 min. or until chocolate is melted and mixture is well blended, stirring after 1 min. Dip tops of cupcakes in glaze; sprinkle with nuts.

I like to consider myself a fairly organized person, however...the kitchen is always a struggle for me. I have quite a few cupboards, but unfortunately they fill up very quickly and become unorganized and often messy. I can't tell you how many times I've organized the bowls, lids, etc...only to come back a week later and find them messed up again. Or...a situation I'm sure many can relate to...having leftovers to put in the fridge, but for the life of me am unable to find the right lid that goes with the right bowl! It's a never-ending problem...that is, until I was introduced to Mr. Lid.

Say goodbye to endless, thankless lid hunting and yellow to quick and easy organization!

Mr. Lid is the first container of its kind with an attached lid. These commercial kitchen-quality containers help to organize the kitchen and keep food fresh. Their list of impressive features are sure to make them a must-have product in every home, just take a look:

Features:

• Patented attached lid design for quick and easy seal
• Stackable 
• Variety of sizes
• BPA free, leak proof, microwave and dishwasher safe
• Perfect for organizing food items, toys, crafts, etc
• 100% made in the USA

When I learned we were going to have the opportunity to check out Mr. Lid...I couldn't have been happier and hoped this was the answer I've been looking for. 

Out of the box, I was impressed with the commercial kitchen-quality. These containers seem durable and like something that will last us a long time. That is very much appreciated, as we use dishes like this all the time for leftover!! 

Of course, as someone who needs more organization in my kitchen cupboards, my favorite feature is definitely that these are containers with an attached lid. It makes it so I never have to lose another lid again! I don't have to spend day after day searching for the lid that matches my bow now that I have both attached and in one place! I have also found that the lid easily seals which gives me peace of mind that my food is being kept fresh. 

The fact that these containers come in a variety of sizes is wonderful! The box I received contained 11 different containers in 4 different sizes. The larger ones are perfect for leftovers, while the little bit smaller ones are great for keeping fruit, snacks, etc. 

We usually have leftovers, which is what the kids and I eat a lot for lunches. That's why I am thankful that these are not only BPA-free for safety, but also microwave safe! I can easily heat up our food and dish it out for the kids and myself for lunch. It's so easy! 

And...when we're done, they are also dishwasher safe! Easy clean up is also great and always appreciated! 

Overall I've been really impressed with Mr. Lid containers! I absolutely love how they easily help to organize my kitchen cupboards and keep my food fresh. As people begin to make their Christmas lists, this is definitely an item I'd recommend for every household. 

Buy It: Available online at MrLid.com, and at retailers nationwide. MSRP: $19.95 

You can also connect with Mr. Lid on Facebook and Twitter.

**The products for this review were provided for free by Mr. Lid. All opinions are my own and were not influenced in any way. 

I love companies who focus on making learning fun! That's why I appreciate Educational Insights and their large variety of playful products that offer great educational value! Whether you're a teacher or a parent looking for great toys that encourage kids to have fun and learn many different skills - Educational Insights has it all!

 

I'd definitely recommend you check out their user-friendly website if you've never taken the time to browse their fantastic selection of educational toys. I would also urge you to head over and "like" the Educational Insights Facebook Page because they are currently holding an amazing contest!

The contest is being held on their quest to 50,000 Facebook Fans! Every 1,000 fans they will choose one winner to win a prize pack worth $500!! How amazing is that?! WOW! When they hit 50,000 fants, they will reward ALL of their fans!

To celebrate their contest, pushing towards 50,000 Facebook Fans, they are offering one lucky reader a $50 Educational Insights Gift Code! To enter, simply enter the Rafflecopter giveaway below. If you don't see the form, click here.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to US/Canada and ends 11/9

**Thank you to Educational Insights for providing me and one lucky reader with a $50 Gift Code to use at EducationalInsights.com!

When my almost 3 year old was around 18 months, he began struggling with eczema and skin sensitivities. It was at that point that we really started thinking more about the products we buy...shampoos, lotions, etc. We now try to get only the most gentle things to use on his skin...including detergents. That's why I was excited to learn more about Rockin' Green.

 

For those who aren't familiar, Rockin' Green is an award-winning manufacturer of eco-friendly cleaning products designed to make cleaning easier and greener. It was founded in 2009 by Kim Webb, an avid clothing diapering mom who desired a better way to clean cloth diapers and treat her kids' sensitive skin. They are now well-known for their cleaning-rinsing laundry detergent formulated for use on all fabrics - especially cloth diapers. They have detergents for hard, soft and normal water conditions and carry a variety of natural scents.


Finding products that are gentle and safe for Kaden's (and my other children's) skin can be a struggle. That's why I was excited to learn more about Rockin' Green and hoped that it would be the answer we've been looking for when it comes to "green" detergent.

We were sent the Rockin Green Classic Rock in the smashing watermelons scent.

When the Rockin' Green product arrived, I couldn't wait to try it out. Just reading the front of the package had me excited - dye free, naturally scented, no fillers, 100% phosphate free, SLS and paraben free, and does up to 90 loads!!

The first time I used it, I couldn't help but wonder if the scent would be overwhelming (or if the fragrance would irritate my son's skin). Thankfully, it did neither!! Upon opening the package I could already tell that the scent was not only amazing, but also light and not overpowering.

We have been using this green laundry detergent for a while now and have been thrilled. It not only gets our laundry clean and smelling wonderful, but it also gives me peace of mind when using it with my son's clothing. We have had no issues with irritation at all. I love that, because we're now able to use a detergent that has natural scents while at the same time a greener option for our laundry. It's perfect!

In the time we've used it, I can tell it will last us a long time too...which is always nice when it comes to detergent. Since we have an HE machine, we use 1-2 tbsp with each load. This makes the bag of detergent go a long ways which I love!

I've definitely been thrilled with our experience so far and look forward to trying other Rockin Green scents when the time comes to buy more! This would make a fantastic gift idea for any new mom as well. I would highly recommend it!

Buy It: You can purchase the Rockin' Green Classic Rock detergent at RockinGreen.com.

Win It: One very lucky reader is going to win a bag of Rockin' Green detergent in the scent of their choice!  To enter, fill out the Rafflecopter giveaway below. If you don't see the form, click here.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to US only and ends 11/9

**The products for this review & giveaway were provided for free by Rockin' Green. All opinions are my own.

Caysen has been feeding himself finger foods for quite some time now. As with my other children, learning to feed himself has come with a lot of messes. We go through many bibs in a day, and never really find that one works very well. It's almost easier to take his shirt off while she eats. It would be great to have a good bib, not only for use at home but also when out to eat. That's why I was happy to learn about a new bib from Flirty Aprons. 

As many of you probably know, Flirty Aprons is best known for their stylish aprons at a great price! I have had the opportunity to work with them on reviews in the past and am impressed with their style and quality. They have experienced rapid growth and are continuing to satisfy their customers with great products - including a new one I couldn't be more excited to share with you about.

Flirty Aprons now has Toddler Bibs available! The bib is large enough to cover the shoulders, chest, waist and upper legs of infants and toddlers. It's cloth on the outside and waterproof on the inside. With three children four years old and younger, I was very excited to learn we were going to have the opportunity to review one.

We were sent the Tiny Trucks bib.

When the bib arrived, I fell in love with the adorable print right away. It's bright colorful, and the fun trucks on the front appeal to both my boys. My two year old does not like to wear bibs, but when he saw this...he was begging for it! YAY!

As I took it out of the package and laid it out flat, I was amazed with the size! It measures 14" x 24" which is large enough to easily cover the shoulders, chest, waist and upper legs of infants and toddlers. No more having to take the boys' shirts off when they eat (or worry how much food they'll get on them in public) thanks to this great bib!

Both Kaden and Caysen have used this bib, and let me tell you...it works like a charm! It helps relieve the stress of worrying they're going to get their clothes full of food out in public as it covers everywhere that needs to be covered.

The quality is also great. The bib is sewn with strong stitching, and is made with cotton on the outside and the inside is a liquid-proof material to help ensure that messes do not soak through to their clothing.

Aside from the cute factor and how well they work, they are also very easy to use. There is no Velcro, but instead a large snap make it easy to get on and off for an adult, but thankfully not easy enough where my two year old can pull it off. It's perfect!

In the time we've been able to use the bib I've been very happy. Now that we have such a great quality bib that does what every bib should do, I definitely want to get more of their Toddler Bibs ! We've been using it all the time.

**Special Promotion for A Mom's Balancing Act Readers** 

Get 50% Off all variations of Bibs at Flirty Aprons using coupon code BIB50 now through October 25, 2012! That's not long, so be sure to go ahead and order your bibs soon!

**The product for this review was provided by Flirty Aprons. All opinions are my own.

As a mom and former preschool teacher, I love to find educational activities for the kids and I to do together that help encourage their love for learning. I know how important it is for learning to be fun, which is why I appreciate companies like Educational Insights!

For those who aren't familiar, Educational Insights offers a large selection of playful products with educational value. Whether you're a teacher looking for educational toys for your classroom, or a teacher wanting more educational toys and games at home...with Educational Insights, you're sure to find everything you need.

As I browsed the Educational Insights website for the first time, I was impressed with their large variety of educational products. With everything from teacher resources to educational toys and games...they really do have it all! Whether you're a teacher or a parent, their site makes it easy to search by category, subject area, etc. I was able to easily find different products that I knew my kids would love, and couldn't have been more excited to learn we were going to have the opportunity to review a couple.

We were sent the Design & Drill Take Along Toolkit.

 

Features/Benefits:

• Helps children explore counting, colors and shapes while building fine motor and creativity skills
• Great for on the go
• Sturdy plastic wipes clean easily
• Includes 60 regular bolts, 3 bits, electronic screwdriver, Activity Guide with 10 patterns, and activity board that doubles as a carrying case.

When the products arrive, both my kids were immediately drawn to the Design & Drill right away! As we took everything out, I was extremely happy with the quality. Everything is durable which lets me know this is something that will last us a long time, even with a lot of play and use!

 

After getting 3 AA batteries (not included) to put in the electronic screwdriver, we got everything laid out and ready to play with. I love that the activity board doubles as a carrying case. One problem we always have with toys that have a lot of pieces, is that the kids typically lose them if they don't have somewhere to keep them when they're done playing. Thankfully, the fact that this has a carrying case has made keeping everything together a lot easier. When they finish they simply put everything inside and close it up!

The case even has a handle which makes it great for on the go to Grandma's or car rides as well! We have been playing with this educational toy for a few weeks now and absolutely LOVE it! Both my 4 year old and 2 year old enjoy it and ask to play with it nearly every day! I think Kaden's favorite part is being able to use the electronic handheld screwdriver because he loves tools! He enjoys drilling each bolt down and telling me which colors he's working on as he goes. Little does he know, there's a lot of learning going on as he plays with this fun toy! He's able to work on his colors while also strengthening his fine motor skills!

Kaelyn enjoys everything about this toy as well, especially the fun activity guide that comes along with it. It includes 10 patterns that kids can use to create the same pattern on the activity board with the bolts. It's a great way for her to follow directions, work on colors, shapes, fine motor skills and more! I love seeing her think and work through each pattern. And to see that excitement and sense of accomplishment at the end is priceless!

 

She also enjoys creating her own patterns and shapes which I really like as well. It allows her to get creative and use her imagination...something very important when it comes to play and learning.

Overall we've been thrilled with the Design & Drill from Educational Insights! It's portable, compact and can be used at home or on the go. It's a lot of fun, and the educational value is terrific! I would definitely recommend it to families with young children PreK+.

Buy It: You can purchase the Design & Drill Take Along Toolkit from Educational Insights for $29.99!

Win It: One VERY lucky reader is going to win a Design & Drill Take Along Toolkit of their own! To enter, simply enter the Rafflecopter giveaway below. If you don't see the form, click here.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

This giveaway ends 10/31 and is open to US/Canada

 **The products for this review and giveaway were provided by Educational Insights. All opinions are my own.

Family movie night is always a lot of fun at our house. We enjoy watching movies, getting out the popcorn and just spending time with one another. I especially like when we're able to share a movie from our childhood with the kids. That's why I was super excited to learn about E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial Blu-ray Combo Pack which was released this month to celebrate its 30th Anniversary!

Movie Synopsis:
When an imaginative boy meets a lost alien, it is the beginning of one of cinema’s most endearing friendships, as Elliot (Henry Thomas) helps the marvelous creature he calls E.T. find his way back home before government agents can capture him.

If you've ever seen E.T., you know that it's a story offering mystery, laughter and wonder! It's one that I still enjoy to this day and am so happy to have had the chance to review this Anniversary Edition. It includes the 1982 theatrical movie, an all-new interview with Director Steven Spielberg, and The E.T. Journals featuring never-before-seen footage from the set of the film. The combo pack includes UltraViolet, a DVD and a Digital Copy of the film, offering fans the opportunity to relive this beloved story on the platform of their choice.

E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial became the biggest Blockbuster of the year in 1982. It ranked #1 over 16 different weekends. Even today, it remains the fourth most successful move of all-time in the US. Now that's one I want to have in our DVD library and be able to share with my kids. How about you?!

When our review copy arrived, I couldn't wait to sit down and watch it as a family. I loved reliving the story as it had been a long time since my husband or I had seen it. It's one of those movies that is fun to share with the kids and now, with the fantastic quality it's easy to watch and enjoy too! There are even bonus features on the E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial Anniversary Edition Blu-Ray that have been enjoyed by all as well. The E.T. Journals, interview with Steven Spielberg, deleted scenes, and much more!

This is definitely a movie I would recommend having in your movie library. It's timeless and one that can be watched and enjoyed for many more years to come by the whole family!

BONUS FEATURES ON THE DVD:
·      Steven Spielberg & E.T.
·      Deleted Scenes
·      A Look Back
·      The E.T. Reunion

Street Date: October 9, 2012
Copyright: 2012 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Selection Numbers: 61119825
Running Time: 114:27
Rating: PG
Technical Info: English Dolby Digital 5.1 and 2.0, Spanish and French Dolby 5.1
Subtitles: English SDH, French and Spanish


Buy It: You can purchase the E.T. Extra-Terrestrial Blu-Ray Combo Pack on Amazon.

**I received this product for review. All opinions are my own**

·

Can you believe it's almost November already? This time of year always flies by, which is why I like to start thinking about Christmas shopping early. I've already got a good start on my gift lists, but have a bit more to do for family and friends. In looking for things that are unique, personal and meaningful, I usually turn to online shopping because I can find such an array of great gift ideas. That's why I love RedEnvelope and their great selection of gifts for every occastion.

 

 

Offering a unique and wide range of thoughtful gifts for every occasion and everyone in your life, RedEnvelope is known for their unique gifts of exceptional quality. Whether it be to celebrate a new beginning, affirm a friendship, thank a colleague or something else...RedEnvelope has it all. And, with the ability to personalize many of the items they offer, it's no wonder people continue to turn to them for unique, special gifts.

I love to browse the RedEnvelope website. I always find a variety of products that are perfect for the people on my Christmas list, including myself! With everything from women's gifts and men's gifts to ...there's something for everyone. As I looked for great gift ideas, I was drawn to their Christmas Gifts category and came across the Inspire Bracelets.

I was sent the Faith Inspire Bracelet to review.

 

When the bracelet arrived, I was impressed with the way it came packaged. I love when companies take the time to present items in a personal and unique way. The bracelet arrived in a beautiful red box that displayed the piece very well, making it great for gift-giving as well! 

I was even more excited once I opened the box to find the Cross Inspire Bracelet. It is absolutely beautiful! I was really happy with the quality as well as the appearance. It has such a graceful, simple design.

Upon putting it on my wrist, I found that it was easy to clasp and size to my wrist. It is also slightly curved to fit the contour of my wrist so it is comfortable and stays put. I love it!!

I have been thrilled with the beauty, quality and overall design of this gorgeous bracelet. It's something I'm able to wear with anything I'm wearing and I'm always receiving compliments about it as well. At $50, it makes a great gift idea for a loved one or friend. I've already got several people on my list that I would like to get this for.

Of course, the Faith Inspire Bracelet is just one of so many great gift ideas for all of the people on your list this year. I would highly recommend checking RedEnvelope out as you start your holiday shopping.

Buy It: You can purchase the Faith Inspire Bracelet for $49.99.

 

**The product for this review was provided for free by RedEnvelope. All opinions are my own.

For those who read here often, you know that I am a fan of Breeze Comfort and their high quality bras, sports bras and tops. If you're not familiar, they are a brand with women's needs in mind. Breeze Comfort makes innovative intimate bras, sports bras and tops with a technology that promotes positive breast health.

Products range from $30-$60 and use a patented Ventipad. Traditional bra pads act as a sponge to collect moisture and sweat causing discomfort, but this technology reduces the "sponge effect" through the perforated air channels resulting in a more comfortable wearing experience.

 

In additional to the unique padding, the sports bras provide support with the padding and some are push-up, which sets them apart from the average sports bra. I have one and absolutely love it! It's super breathable and leads to a more comfortable workout for me.

I have had the opportunity to review their products and am happy to pass along a special promotion they are running for the month of October.

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the brand is offering a special promotion where 50% of the proceeds will be donated to Cedars-Sinai Women's Cancer Program when shoppers use a special code (BCCARES). Shoppers who use this code will also be entered to win an additional style!!

Family Fun play tested over 300 submitted toys with kids of all ages, and chose 30 winners of the 21st Annual T.O.Y Awards.  It was no surprise to me that HABA, a company loved by parents everywhere won not just one, but TWO!! If you're a frequent reader here, you know how much my family loves HABA toys! Offering classic, timeless, and high quality toys...kids are sure to have fun, learn and use their imaginations while playing with these great toys for many years to come!

 

Found nationwide in over 1,000 U.S. specialty retail stores, catalogs and websites, HABA products have been recognized with German and American awards. They are a name parents know and trust...one that provides both fun and education for children of all ages.

Recognized as one of the best toys is HABA's very own Henry Haba Strong’s Armor!

My kids love to engage in pretend play, using their imaginations and creativity. That's why they enjoy dress-up and I knew they'd be thrilled to learn we were going to have the opportunity to review Henry Haba-Strong’s Armor, helmet and shield!

 

When Henry's Haba-Strong's Armor and accessories arrived, I was beyond thrilled. Right out of the package the quality blew me away! These items are incredibly well-made and something I know will withstand a lot of play and use. That's a good thing, as I currently have two children who have not wanted to take it off...and I'm sure my little guy will be following in their foot steps once he's old enough!

My almost 3 year old was most intrigued by this outfit. I mean, what little boy doesn't want to be a knight?! He was begging to put it on, and of course...I couldn't wait to see him in it! As we got on the armor, I was happy with how easy to it is to adjust thanks to the adjustable belt. It makes it easy for children to put on themselves and is great for fitting to children of different sizes (designed for 3-6 year olds).

 

Kaden loved how padded it was. He said he felt "strong". :)

Of course, what is a knight without his helmet and shield?! I wasn't sure how well Kaden would like having something on his head, but I think that was his favorite part! Henry Haba Strong's helmet really completes the look. I love how soft it is, and the quality is equally as great!

It's completely safe, but looks realistic with the visor able to flip open and shut. 

I have to say I was most impressed with Henry Haba Strong's shield. It's brightly colored like the other pieces, and the cotton/polyester material makes it soft and safe. The shield is padded and even has a handle which makes it easy to hold onto while playing.

 

It's been a lot of fun watching the kids play and engage in pretend play with the Henry Haba Strong items. I love hearing all about their Knight experiences and the way their imaginations and creativity leads them. I can tell Henry Haba Strong's armor will definitely be something my kids will enjoy playing with for years to come.

Now all my kids say they are missing is a sword. We now have a great idea for Christmas gifts this year!

If you're looking for a great quality, highly fun toy that encourages imaginative play, I would definitely recommend these products and can see why it was chosen as a 21st Annual T.O.Y Award!

The other winning item is Expedition Dino. This is an adventurous game for dinosaur lovers! Together with Tim the dinosaur explorer, you search the traces of a prehistoric giant. Equipped with a hammer and chisel you excavate petrified bones from the rocks. There is a dangerous dinosaur hiding in between the blocks of rock though, so watch out. For 2 - 5 players, Ages 4 - 99.

Buy It: You can purchase Henry Haba Strong's Armor and accessories at HabaUSA.com!

**The products for this review were provided for free. All opinions are my own and were not influenced in any way