This season I have found that interacting coding toys are the best things around. That includes the fantastic new Cubelets Discovery Set.  This is he newest set that is packed to the brim with robot building fun for ages four and up. Which is just fantastic.

 For those of you who are new to the company- Cubelets are palm sized blocks of software filled hardware. Each of the cubes have a different functions which when put together create coding magic!  Coding is not necessarily a new thing in the toy world. However we are coming to a point where it is being conceptualized in a way that makes it user friendly for the whole family at a point price that allows many families able to afford it. This is fanatasitc because I like many other people understand that coding may soon be one of those skills everyone will need to have a general knowledge of.
    With Cubelets you explore different combinations in order to make your robot perform certain skills.  What makes this toy unique is that you  are using your physical building cubes to create that code so it can preform the intended task. Crazy right, it is literally a hands on way to learn code!
Want to hear something even crazier? They are magnetic so there are no screws to attach and detach, no "Mommmmm can you help me" nothing. They can do it all themselves! I think it is just the bees knees.
      The set also includes the Bluetooth Hat which will pair your robot constructions with wireless devices in the surrounding area. Using this feature you can add different abilities via the Cubelets app.
   Speaking of the App. This feature is not needed for all the fun but definitely enhances it. It is, in essence your portals inside the cube! A direct link to the software inside! You can use it to manipulate individual cubes and change your already constructed robot completely.  You can make pre-existing code and store it in the app and then with a touch of a button use the personality swap to change the code 123. There are also attachments that let you add Lego (or off brand Lego) bricks onto your robot making it as creative as you want. Personalizing both what is inside and outside of your robot! It becomes truly your own.
  Sounds pretty fantastic I know, but what I really love- other than just playing around with it, is the fact that it can grow with your child giving him or her years of enjoyment and learning. A Four year old will learn the basics of the Robotics, as well as cause and effect where a 7 and older will learn more about pattern recognition, critical thinking or design and engineering. This is a "toy" that will open up the world to your youngins for years to come. So if you are going for long lasting, educational, fun, and something you can do with your whole family- Look no further it has arrived! Available on Amazon and is on sale right now!

The Reindeer In Here

   

     Elves on your shelves move over for a new friends The reindeer In Here is the HIT Christmas Item of the season that is absolutely going to be a family favorite for years to come. No Kidding! Where as the Elf is here to keep an eye on you, Reindeer In Here is sent by Santa to get to know each and every child! For your whole season you can take your friend with you and show him all your likes, dislikes, go on adventures and show them what kind of boy or gal you are inside and out!  After all your play during the day the magic happens at night.  That's  when the reindeer will send Santa a Letter a night for a whole month sharing all the amazing adventures you went on. He will tell Ol' Kris Kringle your child's likes, dislikes, personality, EVERYTHING! Helping Santa deliver that one special Christmas Wish on Christmas Eve! Then on Christmas you can leave your Reindeer under the tree to fly back to the North Pole until he returns next year!
    What a nice treat this was to find at TTPM. We have all these little creepy things to spy on the kids, that I find it refreshing that Santa is not sending an undercover agent, but a friend to get to know your child! There are no rules or restrictions for how the kids can interact with him. Which gives them the experience to truly engage with the product and make it their own. It is so well crafted and snugly as well that it will even live through all those adventures and washings if needed!  I am sure my son will not want to let it out of their sight after Christmas- and that is OK! Reindeer In Here also has a bunch of sidekicks that can come along for the fun, including a penguin, snowman, Seal, and a polar bear, that are featured in the story and all have fun personalities.
Reindeer In Here comes in a lovely box that includes his story which is just as lovely as the plush! They will want to read it all season long!
     The Author and creator whom I meet during the TTPM event was so genuine in his love of this product.  When he was speaking with my son about it, I swear his eyes had a little bit of twinkle in them! Who knows he could be the big guy himself! He truly wanted to create a product that the kids would love and they will! So get yourself now before they disappear off the shelf's until next year- because guys... This is going ot be a think. I Guarantee it!

*We were given this product for consideration for review- all our opinions are our own!

Call Of Duty Black Ops 4 Review

   The Call of Duty Black Ops Series has been a favorite in our household since its first release, so we were crazy excited for Black Ops 4 which promised to be the best one yet. It did not disappoint even without its usual campaign which has been taken off the roster. With the Battle Royale, which can be played as a lone wolf or as a team, and the zombie mode I hardly even realize  it was gone until I was already playing for weeks. Talking about playing lets ease everyone's minds right off the bat. There is no lagging, there is no glitches and the wait time is really next to nothing. Graphics are of course top notch, and the character movement is smooth as molasses, running, dodging, jumping and hiding with ease. Another thing to note is that The Specialists, Ruin, Battery, Prophet, Seraph and Nomad are back from Black Ops3 with returning characters and new secret weapons as well! These will prove useful as health no longer auto-generates so if you have Crash on your team you will have a bit more ammo and health boost for the whole team. Honestly though after a bit of a play through you won't even notice as the stim shot is unlimited with after the cool-down timer runs through.

   There are ten new maps, and four remastered that fans will appreciate. Each has its own unique settings and are a ton of fun to run through. There are also new objective modes Heist and Control. Control is like a high stakes capture the flag which I always find fun. Heist is a 5v5 mode that has your team stealing a bag of cash before the other team does. You are given money and a weapon to start out with and then can get more cash and resources along the way. Once you get the cash you have to go to the extraction point. I haven't done much with this version but my son has started to really grasp it and get into it so I see myself being less of a noob in the future.
   Then there is the Blackout version, which is the first time Call of Duty has gone into the battle royale arena. I think it was a bloody brilliant idea. As we know that certain other game is hot right now, but also filled with kids! This is a great way for an adult to enjoy this kind of game play with people (for the most part) of their own age. I have been playing it quite a bit and I kinda sucked, not gonna lie, but literally every team I was spawned into were great kind and helpful and it reminded me really why I always enjoy playing these games. The people playing are awesome! Well I guess it figures great minds and all!. Extra bonus there is a zombie location on the map that has some awesome loot if you dare go in there! You can play solo duos or a full team. Its fantastic fit for a fantastic game.

   Speaking of zombies, the zombie mode is kinda cool this time around. They have really made it playable for both old timers and new players alike letting you really customize how you play.  There are three boards, a gladiator arena, which is called Chaos Story, and split into two parts there is also Blood Of the Dead which follows Aether story and the original four characters from the Treyarch's Zombie story, as well as Voyage of Despair on the Titanic. I wonder if I will see Jack there?
   The tutorial is a run through of Voyage of Despair and has great  commentary that is funny and walks you through the basics. Once you go through that successfully you can select the new Rush mode, play classically, and select levels of difficulty which helps me out when playing with the kids, I can set it on causal and look like a "boss". My Hubby is fond of Realistic.
     A new addition is also the create a class option that I have not really figured out yet, but essentially its setting yourself up before hand instead of buying from the gumball machines on the map. You already have made your elixirs, chosen your special before playing. But what is kinda cool is you can actually assign where those perks will spawn on the map. This makes the zombie mode a part of the game that you can really make your own, and you can actually help you grow within the game.
    To sum it up, if you are a fan of the franchise you are going to love the game. The ease of  getting into a match, the fluid movements, the tactical strategies, weapons, and various modes are going to make you wonder why there was even a campaign to begin with! Love it recommend it for our age apporperiate players. Must have, don't wait for Christmas get it now! Great Job Acivision!


*We recieved a code to review, all opinions are our own.

Christmas Guide Part One! GAMES

    We have a great way for the whole family to get into the football season without having to go out and play for themselves!  The NFL Electric Football. This is the same game platform that has been used since it first hit the marketplace in 1947- yes my uncle has spoken of this game fondly for many years, just with a bit of an upgrade.
  You can choose your favorite teams to play against each other with stickers that are included put in the two double A batteries and you are ready to go!
   So how do you play. Two players hit the field with 11 pieces, with the goal to advance the ball by running passing kicking and of course scoring. You do this by customizing your own plays and strategically places your pieces on the field. The "cleats" that you put on your pieces will help them to advance or help to defend, so choose wisely. What is really cool is that just like in the original version of the game, the vibration is what makes the action happen! Once you place your pieces in their correct position you press the button on the hand held remote and bam the game is a foot! You can even control the strength of the vibrations so it goes faster or slower. very simple very neat.

 This is a great game, it builds interpersonal skills, hand eye coordination, and gets that brain bumping to figure out how to win! You can buy a assortment of sets to make your field loook tiiiight as my son would say, but honestly this is great and easy to use right out of the box/ This was an easy add on to our must have toys this year!

*A sample of the product was given for the purpose of review. All Opinions are our own.




   In a battle between lizards, only one will survive. Oh calm down you don't need to call PETA on me, I am talking about this great game from YULU called Tic Tac Tongue. This is actually the very first thing listed on my sons Christmas wish list which I believe says a lot.  Everyone wears an adorable lizard face mask that ou can blow into and make the tongue flick about. One player flips over a number card, the other players have to flick over the correct number of insect cards that are set up on the table. The first person who knocks down the most insects the fastest wins! Bam! This game is fantastic for so many reasons. There is no set up- you open up the box and you play. No batteries are required, and the rules are minimal. Making this just a quick fun game that you can play at a drop of a dime! The game comes with 4 lizard masks with washable mouthpieces as well as 10 target cards 10 game cards and game rules! Instant fun at a low price point you cannot lose!

*A sample of the product was given for the purpose of review. All Opinions are our own.

Ravensburger gives us a great new game for the kiddos called Five Little Fish! Giving a new angle to that rotating fishing game we have all grown up loving, you know the one where the fish have magnets in their mouths and you have a dingy rode with a magnet and you try and catch it. I love those things. Anyway Five Little Fish is the same in concept. You pick up a card that reveals what color fish you need to catch. After you choose your card you get your fishing rod in hand and then choose which fish you believe will be the color you are looking for if it is a match then you get to keep your catch if it doesn't you have to wait for another turn to try again with a different color. This game is both interactive and great for motor skills, but also a fun new twist on the memory game as the board moves you will have to keep track on which fish is which! Great game highly recommend it!

*A sample of the product was given for the purpose of review. All Opinions are our own.

Watermelon Smash- another great game from YULU and sold exclusivity in target.This game is adorable honestly. A nice twist on the good old water roulette game. In this fast paced game you spin to see how many times you have to (gently) press the watermelon against your head before you can pass it on to the next player. You will never know when it will crack so you are always in a suspenseful state! Once the watermelon cracks on someone turns they will either be covered with water, or plastic watermelon seeds (included) and then are out of the game! Be the last player left to avoid having the watermelon crack on your turn and you win! The best part about this game- other than the game play itself, is that you can play during all seasons. A fun water game in warm weather, or dry if it is raining or freezing outside! Love it. Available now and surely to win the hearts of everyone that plays!

*A sample of the product was given for the purpose of review. All Opinions are our own.

When looking for a karate school for my son, I had a lot of requirements. I wanted a traditional style, classes that encouraged hard work, and a friendly atmosphere for both children and their parents. That is exactly what I found at Adel's International Karate Center. This school teaches traditional Shotokan karate and also offers kids' and adults' fitness classes.  Kids can start at as young as three years old. The teachers are excellent, encouraging the students to work hard while still making it fun for the kids. The owner and his family, who all practice karate, are very kind and welcoming. The instructors ensure that the students are safe and comfortable, they are taught techniques that are effective for self-defense, and emphasis is placed on respect. Classes are offered every day, and the schedule is flexible so you don't have to attend on the same days each time, which makes it extremely convenient. My son has been attending for several years now, and after seeing what a wonderful opportunity it was, I decided to join myself! My son and I enjoy both the karate and fitness classes.  For advanced students, weapons training is also available.  Birthday parties are offered here as well. The first class is a free trial so check it out!

For More Information Visit Their Website! 
Adel's International Karate Center
2928 Long Beach Road, Oceanside NY 11572
(516)536-7050
adelkarate.com
 Find Them on Facebook 

Days of Pumpkins Past- Last Years Blaze Review

     What a great time we had in Historic Hudson Valley this past Columbus Day weekend!  We arrived on Saturday and enjoyed lunch and a dip in the pool, and prepared ourselves for the night ahead. True to form the Great Pumpkin Blaze was very well organized. We arrived for the 7:30 showing and the parking attendants led us to a spot. We walked through the awesome pumpkin arches and into the tent where we stood in a line that went super fast up to the gates of the BLAZE. That is where they scan your tickets and the tour begins!

    As you walk up the winding path, with mouth open wide letting all the flies in because holy WOW the pumpkins are laid out everywhere!  Funny faces, scary faces, anything you can think of spread across the whole lawn as you make your way over to the house itself all lit up. There was a whole new set up and new additions from last year when we went so it was fresh and new to our eyes. We passed pumpkin tombstones, pumpkin bats hanging from the trees, there was a ghostly bonfire in front of the historic house, and as you waited to go down the path by the house (that is a bit narrow) the pumpkins on the house had timed lighting to the blaze original sound track. Really great. After the bottle neck walkway you encounter a museum of dinosaur bones which was my son’s favorite part hands down. To be perfectly honest every

Howes Cavern a Review

    When I was a child I spent every other weekend in the Catskills with my grandparents, and I loved driving down the winding roads, and looking at the beautiful lush green mountains. We use to frequent Drive INN Movies, our favorite restaurant called THE PLACE where we would get root beer floats  and the root beer came in a glass bottle. We would go to Zoom Floom, a water park, Carsin City, a old time Western town, and Howe Caverns.  Most of these places have closed, but Howe Caverns has stood the test of time and is not only still around but THRIVING! I was very nostalgic this summer and decided we had to go back to my old stomping grounds so of course Howes Cavern was on our list of must sees.

    My son is very into rocks. I guess it is a boy thing, or maybe the Jeweler gene for my father and grandfather have passed down to him but he is all about precious stones, mineral formations, mining for gold whatever it is, he is reading about it, talking about it, collecting it. So I thought that he would enjoy traveling underground and walking through a real life cavern- a yea I was right!

 Although there is more to do at the caverns these days then just the tour, like rolling around in a giant hamster ball down the mountain, or tower zip lines, rope courses, and an air jumper, which all look great- we only did the tour and the new mining exhibit!

    Now they do not just have one tour they have several depending on what you are looking for. There is the adventure tour where you have to crawl through small spaces and travel to the largest room in the cavern, there is a flashlight tour- which is self explanatory, as well as a lantern tour. As I said I was nostalgic so we just did the regular 90 minute tour that I did as a child.  You go into the main building and buy our ticket- and then head in to the first room where they give you a brief history of the caverns, which includes a talking manikin of Mr. Howe himself along with a very high production cartoon. It was a great little way to get familiarized with the awesomeness that awaits.  after that you descend down an elevator (where they pack you in like sardines but don't worry you will be OK.) and go down 153 feet to the beginning of the tour.  When you get off the elevator you are going to realize it is COLD. Yes down there it i a crisp 52 degrees so make sure to wear a sweater. Something that is very welcome in the middle of a heat wave!  We had the cutest tour Guide. I forgot his name but for the purposes of this review we will call him J. ( Hi J, sorry I forgot your name! he had glasses, curly hair and he told us a story about how he fell into the water when he was rowing the boat and it was adorable.!)  He looked young, and was young but boy did he know his stuff. he walked us through the amazing splendor that is Howe Caverns and not only described exactly what we were seeing with an amazing amount of detail but also with enough information that he could answer any questions thrown at him. He also told us about his adventures down in the caves including the previously stated mistake when he feel in, the water. Other than being wet and cold he was fine and everyone had a fun laugh.  I have to say that this is one of those natural wonders that you just have to experience. I cannot describe what it actually felt like to be in the cave other than feeling like it was a profound privilege to be there. It was just so beautiful. I have to say that my favorite part of the tour however was the boat ride on the river. The boats that were brought down in pieces and assembled in the cave. They are steered by the guides who use their hands to guide the boats by pushing and pulling them off of the cave walls. It was reminiscent to that one scene in Will Wonka (you better know what I am talking about) except minus the creepy monologue and images of centerpieces.

       After the tour ends you are brought back up via the elevator to the main lobby of the main building where you can purchase tickets to the other amenities, have lunch at the cafe, or go shopping in the gift store. We chose to eat, so we got one order of chicken fingers and fries, Mike got the lunch special with was Fish and Chips for $5.00! It was huge and we went around  back to eat outside. There is a row of picnic tables that are right by the most amazing view of the mountains, definitely a must stop. After lunch we crossed the parking lot to the mining area. Inside the building they have some crystals and fossils on display for your viewing pleasure and a cashier where you buy a bag of dirt- yes dirt. After you buy the dirt they will give you a gem guide and you are sent back outside where there is running water and a sifter. You pour your dirt into the sifter and then gently place it in the water to reveal hidden gem stones. For a kid like mine who is super into gems this was a big deal! There are also some fossils like shark teeth to be found too if you are really lucky. For $12.00 this was definitely worth the experience.

   Even though we didn't experience everything Howes Cavern has to offer, we still spent over four hours there, and had an amazing time. I got the nostalgic experience I was craving and my son experience something truly special for the first time. A must see for everyone go to the offical website to get all the details!

GIANT JENGA: A Review !

  Jenga is a favorite pastime in our house, I have had my Nightmare Before Christmas set for ten years and counting- as I know it is in many other households. As board games regain popularity, it is nice to know that our old favorites keep thriving and keep growing- and in Jenga Giants case quite literally!   Bring Jenga off the tabletop and onto the lawn with its newest version ! Yes we are talking about THE largest authentic hardwood Jenga game ever sold and you can have one for your next BBQ.
    At first setup the game starts off at two feet- that is the size of a toddler! With stone cold professionals it can reach the high of FIVE feet! Five! Each one of the 52 Jenga blocks are 15 times the volume of a regular size game piece, think of that. The complete set also includes a hefty carrying case as well as the Jenga SPORTS Tournament Charts for the professional competitor in all of us!
  Now that we have the legalistic's down let me explain to you why you need this is your life. Other than being a five foot Jenga game- which I think everyone needs- this is the perfect game for any outdoor occasion- Kids party, JENGA, BBQ- OK lets play Jenga, oh impromptu gathering by the pool hey lets play some JENGA, Camping? Lets bring JENGA! It's quite simple when you pull out the large orange bag and open it, you are opening a huge bag of fun! The game play is about 15 times more fun because  the higher you go the higher you want to go. A lot of the time you are working WITH each other just so you can see how far you can go before it topples. Oh and the toppling, nothing brings a smile to everyone's face- adults and kids- a like than a tower toppling down.  Even if it also brings the fresh frustration of the loss of the game.
   The funny thing is you would think it would be less difficult to play, being the pieces are larger- at least I did- but that is not the truth is it?  The reality is the weight of the pieces as well as the length give the game the same if not more intense game play that you get with your normal tabletop game version.
   To Actually play the game I suggest a small TV tray type surface. If you place it directly on the ground it is a little to low to bend- for us old folks. as well as protects the pieces from the dew on the lawn.  Also keep in mind that when the Jenga falls- it is HEAVY! Yea five feet of Blocks makes a big boom! So make sure there is plenty of non breakable, all around the area as well!

     I could go on and on, but the truth of the matter is this, if you love Jenga, if you want to play for fun or up your competitive spirit this is the game for you. Since getting it two weeks ago we have played every other day, with repeat players as well as guests dying to play the minute they see it on the lawn. There is something that draws you to it, and that something is just plain fun. Its just fun! So my suggestion, go get it! You have nothing to lose and plenty of smiles and laughter to gain!

This game was given to TMG for the purpose of review- however all opinions are our own

National Geographic Encounter Time Square NY: A Review, A Must SEE

    Have you ever wonder what it felt like to be under the sea? Well with the magic of lights and film you now can experience it- without even getting wet!  The National Geographic Encounter which home is in the fabulous Times Square is the perfect way to spend a jaw dropping afternoon in New York City.

     As you descend the escalator down to the attractions entrance you will be put in a line with numerous giant Nat. Geo. Covers that you can insert yourself in which is quite fun, as are the trivia questions on the various screens all which makes the wait- which is quite brief, enjoyable. The tickets are timed so that the experience is not over-packed and every person can truly enjoy their time under the sea instead of being packed in like a bunch of sardines (see what I did there?).  You will be herded into the introduction room that has various screens with lifelike animations of the under world you are going to be visiting, there your host will give you some facts, some rules and then reminiscent  to Willy Wonka opening up the doors to his chocolate room, the doors will open- but instead of chocolate you will have a feast for your eyes.  All along the floor as well as on the wall you will see as well as feel (with that tricky filming magic)  that you  have been dumped onto the floor of the ocean! There are small gatherings of fish swimming around your feet that scatter when you stomp. The floor with its moving tide makes you feel as if you are being pushed forward and back. Honestly you KNOW you have your feet firmly on the floor, but your mind is still convinced that you are swaying- fantastic!  Guys, I honestly do not know how to express it in words. It left me speechless  Wtith words like ooooh and ahhh and Oh MY GAWD being the only expressions  able to leave my lips. My son had the same reaction all while jumping and splashing around the ocean floor. On the wall you will see schools of various tropical fish as well as sharks which look so realistic you would not even know (if you didn't know, ya know?) that you were looking at digital images instead of a professional aquarium set up. Thinking about it now all I want to do is go back and visit again- it was that amazing.

   At this point in my review- I am torn. For most venues you see I have no issue telling you about all the amazing things you will see inside, but for this particular venue I think I will have to depart from my previous outlines. You see, I do not want to spoil it for you, and I want you to not spoil it for yourself.  I am just SO excited for everyone to see it that I cannot bring myself to go exhibit to exhibit to give it away. So excuse the vagueness, but I promise you it is for the best.

      The part I have shared with you I believe adequately shows what you have in-store for yourself and your family. I will go as far to say that the wonderment extends throughout the entire exploration,  You will find  more of the same visual spectacles as when you first walked in, along with some 3d visuals as well. You will find yourself walking through a coral reef, playing with sea lions and watching an epic submerged battle. On more than one occasion you will literally feel that you are in the water (no no you do not need an umbrella no worries) you will be able to interact with your surroundings, and in a
whole have a wonderful time. So please heed my advice, run do not walk to this amazing exhibit. Be immersed in its magic, and maybe think to yourself- should this be the way we experince aquariums in the future?

For more information and to buy tickets please visit the official website: https://natgeoencounter.com/

Lightseekers: Our Review!

    Every heard the term "smart action figure"? No? well get ready because Tomy has come out with a very exciting new franchise called LIGHTSEEKERS that are bringing Smart Action Figures onto the map!

    Tomy wants to welcome you to the Planet Tantos where you will discover the almost unknown race Colossi. A world full of magic and mystery this once peaceful world is now been thrown into unbalance! The evil Umbrom are causing trouble and it is up to you and your hero to help save it!

      Lightseekers is a game that fits in our digital world while keeping ties with the physical

imaginative play. With multiple ways to play, the first being a base card game… Can I just stop to say how much I love the fact that card games are now cool! I told you all! I really did. ANYWAY- the second way is the app alone-which is available in the App Store, Google Play, and Amazon, then there is the augmented reality feature of the cards that lets you scan the cards into game-play, as well as the most awesome feature of THE SMART ACTION FIGURE!  There are six action figures available right now- we received the adorable Mari Starter Pack (retail &69.99) who is a water element action figure. Her starter back included the hero, two exclusive AR cards, the Aquadart Crab
weapon, 3 Ar Combo Cards, and the all-important fusioncore. The figure can be played alone just as you would with any other awesome action figure, but once you insert the Fusioncore, which can be placed on ANY LightSeeker figure, on the back of your figure your toy turns into so much more! Using the bluetooth feature of your phone or tablet our Mari turned into a real life hero talking vibrating changing colors and even warning you when you are walking near danger! Not included in the starter back are the attachable wings (retail $14.99) that let you use your figure as a
CONTROLLER! Which is the epidemy of cool if you are asking me! Dodge or duck, your physical action figure and watch as it happens at the same time on the screen, you can also use the fusioncore  fire blasters at the enemies making your once ordinary toy into a powerful controller.  It is a truly new way to integrate gaming and toys that I am totally enamored with.

  The fact that it has so many ways to play also ensures that your child will not get tired of this franchise for a very long time making its replay value off the charts. I cannot recommend this enough great for ages 8-99 Tomy has really hit the mark with this new line and I cannot wait to give one to all the kids in my family and watch the smiles on their faces as they open them up this holiday season!

Reviewed by Michael Aucone

GIANTmicrobes: It's What Should Be Under Your Christmas Tree!

                                 

Available online for $9.99

      They are- ok well the name is also the description so I'll have to take this review in another direction. Ever want to show a child what let's say a blood cell looks like so you google it.  There pops a picture ok great. Well with GIANTmicrobes you can not only show them, you can have them hold a red blood cell plush that is only about a million times the size of the actual cell-bonus it's cute as heck too. The plushes are soft and well-crafted and look like the actual cell or virus in question with the bonus of black eye buttons.  They are great for education- as visual tools for projects and learning or for pelting each other with the common cold when your kids aren't looking.

Buy Now! 

   A great teacher gift is the sick day box set! Which is just as adorable! Filled with the common cold, cough, ear ache sore throat and cavity, something every teacher is acutely aware of. I also like to use this kit as an anger release and laughter generator when X is sick! Let’s say X has an earache- man does he not handle ear aches well. Well I give him the ear ache giant microbe and he flings it, stretches it, yells at it, and has the cat play with it. Seems silly I know but by the time that toy reaches the cat X is no longer crying but cracking up that he is playing with his ear ache! I swear nine out of ten times this is the key to getting my kid laughing while he is sick! Love these things!



Available Online for $24.95 on sale now for $19.99!
      What I really love about these toys though is giving them to germaphobes. I gave the Christmas bundle for my sister in law a few years ago who has "antibacterial" as her middle name and I thought it was the-funniest-thing-ever. To her credit she laughed a lot as well (one of the few times that that happened lol). This year there are three different Christmas themed gift packs, A Christmas wreath, Christmas tree, and a Christmas Stocking-which is what we received! This gift set includes "Penicillin, Salmonella, Red Blood Cell, Dust Mite and limited edition Green Amoeba".  They are all dolled up in there Christmas best, and have embroidery! Festively adorned with decorative puffs, embroidered holly, snowflakes, reindeer nose and antlers, and cute scarf and ear muffs!  The red blood cell has snowflakes, holly adorns Samonella, but my favorite is the Dust Mite that is all dolled up as Rudolph!. If it was possible to make these little guys cuter, they just did it. I love them.



      Yes germs are gross- viruses stink- and a computer virus can bring a grown man to tears. But even though these are real life problems isn't it great to have a product that not only educates, but can make you laugh about it! So while shopping for a truly unique gift make sure you check out GIANTmicrobes. They have a variety of wonderful products that will make you laugh, and make YOU the ultimate gift giver this holiday season!

*We were given products to review all opinions are our own!

Reviewed by Xander Aucone

Destiny 2 Our Review!

    




         It's almost the most wonderful time of the year, and the games that we have been looking forward to all year long are finally being released! One of my must haves is the new Destiny 2.  Personally, I loved the first in the series and was waiting with baited breath for the much anticipated second in the line. Whether you are new to the series or a previous fan you won’t be disappointed because it…is…AWESOME!
   First the Graphics.  Holy cow. My breathe was literally taken away when in the beginning of the campaign you are climbing a mountain, it breaks away to a awe inspiring sky shot. The sun shines with its rays dancing off various surfaces of the landscape. A ship glides across the screen amongst playful clouds and a breeze going through the trees down below. I literally just left it up on the screen to admire before moving on. Every bit of the game is like a moving piece of art.   During gameplay, wisp of grass blow in the breeze, drips of water drip and drop, and the explosives and battle play give fourth of July a run for its money.  I am in love! Add a beautiful soundtrack that changes fits fluidly with any scene and you cannot get any better in my humble yet correct opinion.

    My first move was to play through the whole campaign- since the story line really did have me hooked and emotionally connected to the game. It was kind of hard to stay on topic though with the ever-present side missions appearing, rando bosses, and public events (some of them I accidently hosted before I knew what I was doing. Ok fine-before my 7-year-old told me what I was doing! He is a better gamer than me there I said it!) but that’s ok- because it kept you intrigued, kept you playing and wanting to play.  There was always a promise of something new every time I switched on the game and it got me hooked!  It took me about fourteen hours to

Amazon Kids Lost In OZ: Review

      

     Amazon’s Lost in Oz- WOW. This amazing Amazon Origin “web series” premiers (full season) today, August 4^th and the first thing I am going to say is- watch it. I am going to write a full review including background and my own opinion but the short of it is- its Ozsome (get it?). Boy girl, adult or child you are going to love it, so what are you waiting for?

     For those of you that are kind enough to still be reading, thank you, and here is the “long of it”. Amazon kids have created a truly unique take on the original Oz series written by Frank Baum, where tween Dorothy Gale gets a ride to Oz when she opens a magical book that she finds underneath her floorboards back in Kansas. Dorothy is thrown green tornado first into a modern-day metropolitan called you guessed it Emerald City with her dog Toto. Not to be down long Dorothy does not wait to try and find her way back and the change of scenery only makes her to the occasion! Lost in OZ take on Dorothy is an intelligent quick-witted girl who knows how to get herself out of some tight situations. A good thing too because challenges are almost immediately thrown at her. 

During her stay, she learns that her Mother Evelyn Gale has been to OZ and even has friends there! Evelyn somehow sends a message to her old friend Cyra who then sends her daughter pointedly named West to find Dorothy and the adventure begins!

    Dorothy Learns that not only does she have a problem but so does Emerald City, who is going through a major magic shortage.  This shortage is not only effecting the city, but also throwing a major problem into her plans to get home. Together with her new friends West the witch and Ojo the over-sized munchkin the threesome decides that the only one who would really help Dorothy would be Glinda the Good Witch.  Sounds easy, right? Wrong! It seems that Glinda has had some trouble of her own and is missing! Boy oh boy it seems that Dorothy and Oz are both in a heap of trouble-but for us it means excellent entertainment! Dorothy and her friends, more of which are picked up among the way are off on an adventure of a lifetime and we are along for the ride!

    The shows plot has everything you need for fun filled adventure, but it is the characters and the new modern day OZ that really make it worth watching. Small changes like the yellow brick road being turned into the Yellow Brick Train Line bring this old classic into the modern age along with other small details like the Crystal Ball Cell phone like gadgets used by the teens tweens and in-betweens, a magical nightclub and more bring the OZ of past renditions into a world that is closer to the world our children know and can relate too. Dorothy who is sometimes unpredictable and impulsive with her actions is complemented nicely with her travel mates. West is a witch in training that has something to prove- to herself and the people around her leading her to some troublesome and moral dilemmas. Ojo the over-sized munchkin wants to help everyone, and may even be considered a people pleaser, is fighting not only the bad guys that they encounter but the role of going into the family business instead of striking out on his own. Reigh the lion is a computer geek and conspiracy theorist who helps the gang via remote most times, adds some cautionary tips and trips to the gangs’ plans. The poor scarecrow has lost his memory and is trying to get his mind back to help the others save Glinda and OZ! Add all of this with amazing eye-catching graphics and dialogue that is not only age appropriate but intelligent witty and comical at times and you have the makings of a great show!

    We were so honored to have been offered a private screening of the show and although we have not finished it (but will be tonight!) have been enthralled in the world, story and characters. This will be a crowd pleaser and is a must see for anyone promising to keep fans of the land of Oz interesting and bring forth interest to those who have yet to be exposed. Great job Amazon we cannot wait to see where this series takes us! 

Watch the Full Series NOW

Girlz N Dollz: A Review

   Girlz N Dollz line of plush rag dolls are one of the cutest series of affordable plush's I have seen in a long while.  We received Jumbo Leila Princess Doll- from the "Jumbo" line of Girlz N Dollz. Leila is perfectly fitted in her pink dress and not only looks good but is soooo soft to the touch!  The creator of the line is in love with both dolls and fashion and with the help of her own little girl created a line that reflected that the mantra of their line  "I AM ME"
   This doll makes me fell like a kid again, I can just picture myself receiving this as a gift and carrying her around on adventures all the while still being able to cuddle up with her to sleep at the end of the day. Leila, like all the dolls in the line is machine washable, which helps because she will absolutely be going off on adventures your little ones and what is a adventure without a little mess!

  Girlz and Dolls did not reduce detail just because they wanted to make  a soft plush.  The clothing is beautiful and durable. The hair soft as a blanket but sturdy enough to be carried around by it.  The faces are beautifully embroidered and friendly.  Not like other dolls, you know  what I am talking about. Those dolls have that scary empty look to them, the ones you do not want to find in a dark empty room at 1am- yea you won't find any of those in this line. Every piece on this doll is made with a high quality standard plush that allows you to keep the appeal of a plush without losing that uniqueness of an actual doll.  `


  My final verdict- you cannot go wrong when you have Girlz N Dollz in your corner. They have small dolls, jumbo dolls, mermaids, and even a boy doll! You will find exactly what you are looking for and your child will find a friend for life!

I was given this toy to review, however the opinions are my own

Oscar's Oasis Is A Not To Miss Show Coming To Netflix!

     

    There is a great new show coming to NETFLIX that is going to make your kids go insane! Oscar's Oasis is a wonderfully funny non-verbal cartoon series from TeamTO-a fairly new-est 2005- french production company that really does amazing work.
    In Oscar's Oasis, you follow desert-dwelling animals Oscar the Lizard and Popy the fox go on crazy action packed adventures. In the hard to survive environment these two main characters are always competing for resources and for entertainment! Follow them as they fight against environmental elements, foes, and sometimes friends in a beautifully animated series that is sure to keep you, and your chidren entertained. The best part of the show however is that will no language whatsoever the point is clear. In life you have obstacles you need to overcome, but with a little determination, some laughs and some friends there is nothing you cannot do! We give this a "million thumbs up" according to the five kids we watched it with- aged from 1-7!

The Irish Fairy Door Company Presents The Worry Plague! Now Available!

     The Irish Fairy Door Company was one of my favorite brands that I have come to work with over the past two years-honestly. Their products are simple as well as beautiful and open your child’s mind up to a world of imagination all year long (see our review here).  In addition to their Fairy Door Line, TIFDC has created a wonderful item to help carry your child’s worries away!
       Kids always have a worry or two pec
king at them in the pack of their minds, but it seems that these days, our children have less of a childhood and more and more grown up worries! What a better way to get rid of them then in the magical world of the Fae!
     So here how it works, order your Worry Plague, which is a circular tree trunk that has a small hand-print on it. Your child will place their hand on the plague, and through the magic of the Fae it

Wicked Cool Toys Present The New Cabbage Patch Kids Line and Baby Alive!

CPK Baby Alive

       Wicked Cool Toys has a great way of reinventing toys for our childhood and bringing them back to the top for our children to enjoy. Us 80’s kids all know what it was like to receive a Cabbage Patch Kid- and we all know the story of how our parents acquired them.
   

 It was even harder back in those days to get your hands on the coveted item of the year, and in the year of the Cabbage Patch there were lines all across America for the chance to get one of these dolls.  My mom was visiting my Great Aunt at the time of the release of the CPK line. She remembers waiting on line for almost three hours with Aunt Anne, waiting to get their hands on one of the dolls. They laughed, and joked, almost cried a couple of times, but in the end they both had a cabbage patch doll in their hands, and a fond memory of when they got it- and I to this day have that same cabbage patch doll on my bed, and my niece comes over to play with it all the time. This doll has seen a lot of love in its time, and continues to as well.

Call Of Duty Dragonfly Drone Available ONLY at Walmart

         I may not know a lot but I do know this. Drones and Call of Duty are both awesome- that is why the pairing (exclusively at Walmart) is a SURE WAY to make your kid do that high pitch scream, that we all aim for, this holiday season!
    Every Sunday Night for as long as I can remember my friends and I play COD online on our Xbox’s. For two hours no matter where we are in the country or sometimes the world, we all get together and try to destroy each other- or sometimes we may even be on the same team. It has been a tradition that we have shared now for now for many years. I am pretty awful at it, which I am reminded by the fact that they say I am pretty awful at it all the time- SO I CANNOT WAIT TO SHOW THEM MY NEW DRONE AND NOT SHARE IT WITH THEM!

LeapFrog Leap Start Interactive System Review!

         You guys may remember during the summer when I was invited to the Leap Frog showcase and that the Leapfrog Leap Start System was by far my favorite product of the new line. Well we got a chance to try it out and I am not surprised to say- it lived up to all my expectations!

       This system is not digital, but gives you everything any of these learning apps would give you and more without the ever imposing screen. For ages 2 -7 this interactive learning system will get kids excited to learn everything from ABC’s to STEM fundamentals in a truly fun way.

    So how does this work? Easily.  The system is based on three key components, the book holder, the books and the stylus. The book holder and stylus come in two styles-one that is built for the tinnier hands of pre-school-kindergarten students. This version has a chunkier appearance, and a wider stylus that helps your child learn how to grip a writing tool correctly, as well as folds up and is easier to carry for that age range. The older looking version has a sleeker almost laptop look to it and thinner stylus- that appeals to the older kids, however both work with all the books in the line- so you never have to replace the case itself unless you want to.

Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer the Musical Is LIVE at MSG Theater For A Limited Time

    Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer the Musical Is LIVE at MSG Theater for a limited run!

         For most of us, Rudolph and his band of misfit friends is a holiday classic that we look forward to watching every year. Well this year we are pleased to announce that not only is it available to watch on the T.V. as per tradition, but has also been brought to life as a wonderful live musical! This limited run show brings the story we all know and love from the screen to a full filled action packed live show that stays true to its origins.
        The cast and crew of this show put on a spectacular performance on opening night, mixing li
ve actors with puppetry, as well as digital effects, which gives you an original experience that touches upon the beloved television special’s Claymation effects. The set is a simple snow filled backdrop, with some props here or there to show the change of scenes. Puppeteers and crew hands dressed all in white go almost incognito amongst the scenes pushing around props and puppeteering playful raccoons, as well as pushing” iceberg’s”, while the main cast sing and dance to music that is faithful to the original. The cast sings such favorites as “Misfits” and “Holly Jolly Christmas” almost as perfect at the originals that you cannot help but sing along with the well-known tunes. Even the voicing of the actors matched the original TV series almost perfectly! I could not believe it! The costumes themselves have the faces of the actors showing, yet are produced in such a way that they look almost cartoon like. Staying consistent with the creators “true to the original” mission statement of the show.
    The puppets too- are a beautifully made to match the original version, and simply beautiful. From the little raccoons that scatter around after Rudolph to the massive Bumble who is the size of the stage itself the quality of these props could be seen from any seat you were in.
     

  Sometimes, as an adult you take your child to these live renditions because you want to create a special memory for them- but in your gut you know that you as an adult may not be as thrilled as they. Let me tell you something not only was my son thoroughly enthralled with the performance- I mean seriously he did not move the whole entire time, but myself and my mother were just as amused. We sang along, and sat perfectly content as the amazing cast performed.
            So if you had any doubt on whether or not this is a performance to trek out to see, I can guarantee you that this one is not to be missed, the whole family from 2-99 will enjoy it!

 Tickets are available now on Groupon! Don't wait- go get your tickets now!