The Little Mermaid II & Ariel's Beginning DVD and Blu-ray Combo Pack Review

We received this product free to facilitate this review.

For a limited time only join Ariel in two underwater adventures in the 2 Movie Collection of The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning and The Little Mermaid II: Return To The Sea as it dives for the first time on Disney Blu-ray Combo Pack November 19th!

THE LITTLE MERMAID: ARIEL’S BEGINNING
A time long before Ariel walked on land and into Prince Eric's heart, she was the youngest of seven daughter's to the mighty King Triton. After Triton's beloved wife dies he bans music from the underwater kingdom of Atlantica. With his deepening sadness, Triton forgets how to be happy. Torn between family duty and her love of music, Ariel must make the most difficult choice of her life. With the help of her friends, Sebastian and Flounder, and her six amusing sisters, will the young mermaid be able to restore music, friendship, happiness and love to the Kingdom?

I love this story of how a daughter's love for her mother and father shine and how she desperately wants everyone in the kingdom to be happy once more, especially her father. We get to see how flounder and Ariel meet. My daughter's favorite part of the movie was where the eels were being tied into a knot. They started giggling and couldn't stop. I loved the music box in the movie. It was so beautiful and a wonderful symbol of Triton's undying love for his wife. This was a great story about how sadness and depression can be overcome.

THE LITTLE MERMAID II: RETURN TO THE SEA (Blu-ray & DVD)
In this the sequel to to wonderful The Little Mermaid, Ariel and Eric have forbidden Melody, their daughter, to go near the sea and have hidden her true mermaid heritage and a threat, Ursula's revengeful sibling Morgana from her to try to keep her safe. Melody's curiosity about her roots get the best of her. Melody is a headstrong girl that yearns to go into the sea as her mother had yearned to be on land. She sets out into the sea against her parents' wishes. There she meets new friends, and in her dream to be a mermaid becomes a pawn in Morgana's plot to gain control of the Seven Seas. Ariel must reunite with her childhood friends, Sebastian, Flounder, and Scuttle, rescue her daughter, and restore harmony to her family.

This movie is very predictable as it follows a very similar plot as the first movie. Their are some new characters as well as some old favorites. I do think that as the original was far better than this sequel, but it still has its good points. I loved the song For One Moment and how it went into a duet with Melody and Ariel. I also love the moral...don't keep secrets from those you love. All in all I still enjoyed this movie and my kids did too.


Bonus Features:

THE LITTLE MERMAID: ARIEL’S BEGINNING

• Splashdance: A Dancer's Adventures Under The Sea 
• Deleted Scenes with intros by Director Peggy Holmes 
• Music & More 
• Sing Along With The Movie 
• The Little Mermaid: Under the Sea and Behind the Scenes on Broadway (DVD only) 
• Mermaid Discovery Vanity Game (DVD only)

THE LITTLE MERMAID II: RETURN TO THE SEA (Blu-ray & DVD)

• "The Little Mermaid II" Storybook 
• Deleted Song "Gonna Get My Wish"  
• Classic Animated Short “Merbabies”                 

Ratings: G (both films)
Feature Run Time:  The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Beginning: 77 minutes. The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea: 75 minutes.

BUY IT:
You can purchase The Little Mermaid II & Ariel's Beginning DVD and Blu-ray Combo Pack for $26.99 on Amazon.com.

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received product for free to facilitate my review. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

DIY Upcycled Ideas for Washing Machine Parts

We've replaced our clothes washer about 4-5 times (I lost count) this past year because of different things failing on them. One didn't agitate anymore, one soaked our floor as it died, one had its spider joint crack, and the others had similar issues. They were "Craigslist Specials" because frankly we couldn't afford brand new ones. We couldn't believe that we were going through so many washing machines because the first one lasted about 6 years.

I always try to look at the bright side of things when things just don't seem like they are going right. I try to have a "When life hands you lemons, make lemon-aide" kind of attitude.  I wanted to turn a bad situation into something good. This is what I came up with...

Top loading washing machine with the stainless steel drum exposed.

My husband taking the washing machine apart.

The stainless steel drum of our old washing machine (to be used as a fire pit or planter).

Washing machine drum container gardening.

• Upcycle a drum of a washing machine and use as a fire pit/BBQ, drink cooler, planter, seat, footstool, small end/coffee table or lamp/light! If you have a washer with a stainless steel drum/tub it will last longer for these projects than the other metals and plastic ones shouldn't be used for the fire pit. The drum has natural air holes for the oxygen to circulate while the fire is going for a fire pit. You can also set it on an old over sized metal dish from a Satellite TV provider. The stainless, metal or plastic drums can also be used as the perfect planter...just set a flat rock or affix a metal plate over the large hole in the bottom. It even has natural draining holes so that the soil doesn't get too soaked when you water your plant(s). You can also attach it easily to a DIY stand. Here are some other neat ideas for a seat and lamp and too!

Front loading washer glass door window.

Front loading washer glass window upcycled for a fruit bowl.

• Upcycle the glass door window of a front loader to a stylish fruit or mixing bowl. Just take the glass bowl shaped window off the door, remove extra parts, clean it up, and voila...instant fruit bowl!

Front loading washer top upcycled to a magnetic board.

• Upcycle a side or top piece of the washing machine for a magnetic or dry erase white board. This is great for use in your office or homeschool! My kids love this and since ours was the top piece of a front loader it has brackets at the top that you can use to hang it easily on the wall!

Washing machine hose upcycled as a water bucket filler.

• Upcycle a washing machine hose to be used as a bucket filler for water. These hoses are shorter and easier to handle than a long gardening hose for this purpose...especially around the farm when buckets of water need filled daily. We also got some 2-way and 4-way faucet expanders/distributers/extenders at the hardware store to let us use the faucet water from the same spigot even while the washer is all hooked up and running.
• Upcycle a washing machine into a chicken coop! This clothes dryer was even made into a chicken coop. I am sure a front loading washer could probably be used the same way.

These are my ideas to get your creative juices flowing. You can get the plans for all of these projects by searching for them online. There are many different ways to make some of these. Choose the best suited for your own needs. You can also find tutorials on how to take your broken washing machine apart. Different makes and models come apart differently.

"Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out." - John Wooden

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: If you do any of these projects I am not liable for any injuries that happen. Make your best judgement and try not to get hurt.

Yellow Pages Prize Pack Giveaway & Blog App

I have the opportunity to give away a Yellow Pages Prize Pack below free for posting this information. All information and giveaway prizes are provided by Yellow Pages and PartnersHub.

Yellow Pages has been around for ever and now they have an app that you can download to help you get things DONE this holiday season! My Book keeps contacts current and up to date. It also lets you bookmark a contact easily and store notes on them.

Do you love the feeling of accomplishment that comes from knocking out your to-do list? You must be a Doer! YP is the one site and one app for people who wear busy as a badge of honor. Within seconds you can find a hardware store, gardener, limousine service, dentist or bounce house for your child’s birthday party. Search 18 million business listings as fast as you can tap.

But the big question is… do you DO the holidays right? YP has created a fun quiz to help you find out, and learn some fun facts along the way!

Download the YPMobile app, take a look at the new YP.com site.

Highlights:

• Ratings, reviews, photos and phone numbers (of course) to help you decide which businesses are right for you
• Thousands of local coupons, deals and discounts from businesses and services near you
• Create personalized collections of your favorite, go-to businesses using My Book
• Find the cheapest gas around with one click
• Search 350,000 menus to find the perfect meal

Blog App:

• Do You Do the Holidays Right? QUIZ - From roasting chestnuts, drinking egg nog, and decorating the house - the Holidays are a fun time that you must DO right! Take the quiz to find out if you DO the Holidays right!
• Get Social With It! - Tweet using @YP to get excited about YP!

WIN IT
Prize: YP Prize Pack Includes:

• Black Cinch Bag
• Flashlight
• Tape Measure
• Notepads
• Pencils
• USB Car Charger
• Gum

Giveaway open to the U.S. Each household is only eligible to win 1 ONE YP Prize Pack via blog reviews and giveaways. Only one entrant per mailing address per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you will not be eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

I am trying out Rafflecopter on my blog. Please click on this post link if you do not see the script for it below. Also, if there is anything that is wrong with it let me know by emailing me: finamoon AT gmail DOT com I will try my best at fixing it. Thanks for being awesome readers!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Because I am posting about the Yellow Pages Blog App I am getting a Yellow Pages Prize Pack free for my readers as a giveaway. Thanks to PartnersHub and Yellow Pages for providing me this promotion information and free product. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for posting this blog app and giveaway.

SOL REPUBLIC Headphones: Pink Tokidoki Tracks HD On Ear Review

I received the SOL REPUBLIC Pink Tokidoki Tracks HD On Ear Headphones for free to facilitate this review. These are from the Special Editions section of SOL REPUBLIC. Characters, colors and lines reveal the unique world of tokidoki, while high definition sound of SOL REPUBLIC lets you feel the music.

FEATURES:

• V10 HD Sound Engine - Powerful Sound You Can Feel: Tracks HD V10 Sound Engine Speakers are fully loaded with deeper bass, higher vocal clarity and crisp vocals so you can feel the full power of your music.
• Virtually Indestructible: Constructed of an advanced polymer compound, our FlexTech™ Sound Track headband is built to withstand heavy abuse. Twist it, bend it, drop it - it’s not going to break. 
• Slim-Fit Carrying Case: Slim-Fit water-resistant carrying case zips up to protect and transport your SOL REPUBLIC headphones with ease. 
• Device Compatibility: 3-button mic + music control is designed specifically for full feature compatibility with recent generations of Apple devices. The audio and mic are likely to work with most devices that have a 3.5mm jack, including but not limited to, Android, Blackberry and Windows devices. 
• SonicSoft™ Speaker Pads - Listen In Comfort & Isolation: Supple, noise-isolating ear cushions let you enjoy your music in comfort for hours. 
• Interchangeable Headbands - Personal Style: The Tracks family of headphones can be REMIXED with a stylish selection of virtually indestructible headbands (sold separately). Visit the REMIX section today. 
• 3-Button Mic+Music Control: Adjust the volume, pause/resume/skip music and answer/hang-up calls. The high clarity mic captures every word possible.
• One Year Warranty: SOL REPUBLIC products are guaranteed to last. We will repair or replace most products at no charge for a period of one year from the date of purchase. Learn more about their Warranty. 
• Free Shipping: FREE Shipping is available for most US ground orders in the contiguous United States. Expedited and international shipping options are also available. 

My Thoughts:

The SOL REPUBLIC Headphones have excellent high definition sound and keep out all manner of noise from the outside. My husband was a little jealous of them because of how great everything sounded with them. The bass is fantastically clear and mids/highs are incredibly crisp.

I think the padding is fairly comfortable. The speaker pads were a little uncomfortable on my small ears. They hug my ears a little too tight.  I love the extra padding on the band. It doesn't shift or move when I am jamming to my music. It also comes with a handy, soft case that is water resistant! Just another reason to get these in the Pacific Northwest!

I don't like how flimsy the headphone cord is though. My kids ended up breaking the button on it. Before it was broken I didn't ever get the 3-Button Mic+Music Control to work on it, but I was just using it on an mp3 player so maybe it had compatibility issues with it. I have already had to replace the cord (these come in multiple colors too and so I replaced with a purple one) and probably will again. At least you can get the cord separately from having to buy a whole new unit. You also have to shove the left and right jacks into the correct speaker plugs all the way or they won't work.

The Tokidoki pop-culture design reminds me of Japanese anime, which I love the style of. I am a big fan of Simone Legno's Unicorno which is on the band and case. These are just as unique as I am and I love showing off my individuality. I love how you can get the perfect fit to your head because you can slide the speakers up and down on the Tracks. The Tracks are also interchangeable which is super cool. These are functional and a sweet fashion accessory!

Be Social:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/solrepublic
Twitter - https://twitter.com/SOLREPUBLIC
YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/user/solrepublic
Instagram - http://instagram.com/SOLREPUBLIC
Google + - https://plus.google.com/+solrepublic/posts

BUY IT

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received this product for free to facilitate this review. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review. Affiliate links may be in this posting. Thanks for supporting my blog.

World Vision Silver Vines Cuff Review and Giveaway

This review and giveaway is sponsored by World Vision.

I have posted before about the power of giving and the awesome humanitarian organization, World Vision. This holiday season gives the chance to give back a little. World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families, and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.

You can read these posts from this year on my blog and enter to win another prize, a gorgeous 100% silk scarf from them too:

• World Vision Philippines Disaster Response Fund #GivingTuesday
• World Vision Gift Catalog and Thai 100% Silk Scarf Review and Giveaway

From the Handcrafted Gifts category I received the Silver Vines Cuff for free to facilitate this review because of my post on the Philippines Disaster Response Fund. This bracelet is designed by artisans in Old Delhi, India and made of silver. It has pretty scrolling lacey engravings of flowers and vines on it. It is adjustable by bending the metal, although I wouldn't recommend doing this often as the metal might get brittle in spots. The underside of this cuff is shiny and smooth. This gorgeous piece is the result of once mistreated jewelry makers banding together to support their families through Fair Trade practices. I love the beautiful design and pattern it has. It also comes with a pretty organza gift bag.

Approximate size: 2 1/2" x 2 1/4" (adjustable x 1 1/2"W)

BUY IT
To order from the World Vision Gift Catalog, visit www.worldvisiongifts.org. To order by phone or to request a print catalog, call toll-free at (888) 511-6511.

WIN IT
Prize: Win a Silver Vines Cuff (US Only!)

I am trying out Rafflecopter on my blog. Please click on this post link if you do not see the script for it below. Also, if there is anything that is wrong with it let me know by emailing me: finamoon AT gmail DOT com I will try my best at fixing it. Thanks for being awesome readers!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received product for free to to facilitate this review and the opportunity to give away one for free. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

World Vision Gift Catalog and Thai 100% Silk Scarf Review and Giveaway

This review and giveaway is sponsored by World Vision.

The true meaning of this and every holiday season should be giving and what better way to do that than to create a Christmas list through World Vision and their Gift Catalog. World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families, and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.

In their catalog you can choose from more than 250 meaningful, life-changing gifts to meet the essential, immediate needs of children and their families around the world. These alternative gift ideas such as: animals (goats, sheep, cows, chickens, pigs, oxen, ducks, donkeys, rabbits, alpacas), sewing machines, bicycles, education and training, homes, clothes and shoes, clean water, fruit trees, honey bees, supplies and tools, medicine, etc. - honor the recipient and make a lasting impact for people in need. The catalog also offers a wide variety of 30+ gifts to match the interests and hobbies of the gift recipient to make the gift giving more meaningful. The recipient of the gift you give, whether a friend or family member, will get a special card describing the gift and its impact. Also with a contribution to the Maximum Impact Fund donors can also receive free handmade items from around the world: such as ornaments, jewelry, scarves, totes, etc. These donations help the areas of greatest need.



The World Vision website has a online tool allowing individuals the option to make a personal My Gift Catalog page at www.mygiftcatalog.org for personalized fundraising. The individual can then encourage family and friends to visit their page and purchase a gift from the catalog instead of or in addition to traditional holiday presents. You can use this during all year round too, such as: the holiday season, birthdays, weddings, graduations or other celebrations.

You can also join the "Share Joy With the World" Advent Challenge on their blog where World Vision would love for you to participate in a suggested activity each day to share joy and share your experience with friends, family, etc.

You can also learn more about some of the recipients of the items purchased from the gift catalog through their Facebook page.

World Vision Thai 100% Silk Scarf

From the Handcrafted Gifts category I received the Thai 100% Silk Scarf for free to facilitate this review. This gorgeous purple Sabai scarf is hand-woven by the hard-working women of Thailand’s Surin Province on a loom into distinctive striped patterns. I absolutely love the colors and it is made of a lovely material. I love to wear this in so many different ways. It is so versatile.

Approximate size of scarf is 66" long by 16" wide. Each is unique - size and color may vary slightly.

BUY IT
To order from the World Vision Gift Catalog, visit www.worldvisiongifts.org. To order by phone or to request a print catalog, call toll-free at (888) 511-6511.

WIN IT
Prize: Win a Thai 100% Silk Scarf (US Only!)

I am trying out Rafflecopter on my blog. Please click on this post link if you do not see the script for it below. Also, if there is anything that is wrong with it let me know by emailing me: finamoon AT gmail DOT com I will try my best at fixing it. Thanks for being awesome readers!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received product for free to to facilitate this review and the opportunity to give away one for free. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Novica $40 Gift Certificate Giveaway and New Premium Gift Wrap Review

Novica's Premium Gift Wrap

We received product free from Novica to facilitate this review and the opportunity below to giveaway a $40 Gift Certificate. Affiliate links may be in this posting. Thanks for supporting my blog.

NOVICA helps change the lives of artisans in developing nations, while offering us extraordinary handmade gifts, jewelry, apparel, and home decor. There are so many talented artists and artisans around the world. NOVICA provides these unique, hard-to-find items on their internet website at great prices. These services are all fair trade, meaning that they don't charge the artists and artisans any listing fees and the artists and artisans remain fully independent. They are free to raise their prices, lower their prices, or remove their items from their website whenever they please. This website is great to buy something from for your special somebody for the holidays, just remember since these items are coming all the way from the country they are made in, the shipping might take longer than expected.

NOVICA now has new premium gift wrap in 3 of their regions: Bali, Thailand and India; and they will be offering it to all of their locations soon. I was asked to get something from one of these regions with a $40 gift code that they gave me and also try out their new premium gift wrap. Most premium gift wrap is only $3.95-$5.95 per item. It is as unique as the gift you choose to have wrapped. The premium wrap has handmade elements, carefully crafted ribbons and beautiful brass plates.

Songbird Haven Rosewood tea light holder made by Reshma Anand in India

I chose the Songbird Haven Rosewood tea light holder made by Reshma Anand in India. It came wrapped in the premium gift wrap which is basically brown (or white) paper, pretty fabric, ribbon, and a brass plate that says NOVICA on it. Inside the wrapped box is another box that is blue with a lid and stamped with what looks like a partridge in a pair tree. The tea light was wrapped in white tissue paper to protect it while traveling. The Songbird Haven Rosewood tea light holder was just what I thought it would be. I love the birds nestled in the leafy branches of the shady tree that is carved in low relief and hand painted. I love the rosewood this is made out of. The wood has such gorgeous figure in it. This candle holder can be placed on a surface, like a table or shelf or hung on the wall like a sconce. It comes with a tea light that has an aluminum casing for safety.

The Songbird Haven Rosewood tea light holder can be hung on the wall.

WIN IT
Prize: Win a $40 Gift Certificate from Novica (Expires 2/20/14).

I am trying out Rafflecopter on my blog. Please click on this post link if you do not see the script for it below. Also, if there is anything that is wrong with it let me know by emailing me: finamoon AT gmail DOT com I will try my best at fixing it. Thanks for being awesome readers!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to NOVICA for sending me a $40 gift certificate for free to review an item off their website and one to give away for free. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review of their website. Affiliate links may be in this posting. Thanks for supporting my blog.

Ellóre Femme Hair Chalk Savings Offer

US Family Guide provided me with this promotional information to share with my readers. I am getting something for free in return for posting this information.

If you don't know what Hair Chalk is, then prepare yourself for amazingness! It's a super fun, temporary method to add some serious flair to your hair. These vibrantly colored hair-chalk sticks from Ellóre Femme  help you to easily paint rainbow hues onto strands. The easy-to-blend dyes are formulated with natural plant pigments, rendering the chalk non-toxic. All 24 colors easily wash out in the shower.

Spontaneous hair color
Set with heat
Blendable colors
Nontoxic, natural plant pigments
Washes out after one shower
Use on wet hair
24 vibrant shades
May transfer onto clothing during application
May cause respiratory irritation if inhaled

My Readers save $30 Off Ellóre Femme 24 peice Hair Chalk set with promo code BL15

http://www.ellorefemme.com/usd/hair-chalk.html/
Regular Price: US $44.99

Blog Price: $14.99 (with Promo Code: BL15)

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Because I am posting about the Ellóre Femme Hair Chalk I am getting a FREE 24 piece Hair Chalk Set (a $44.99 value). Thanks to USFamilyGuide.com for providing me this promotion information. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for posting this promo.

Ellóre Femme Make Up Brush Kit Savings Offer

US Family Guide provided me with this promotional information to share with my readers. I am getting something for free in return for posting this information.

The Ellóre Femme 24 Piece Professional Makeup Brush Set with Travel Case provides you with specific tools cover a wide range of areas! From eyes to lips to second foreheads and boast a luxurious blend of soft animal hair and synthetic bristles. The slim brushes stay neatly lined within a fold-up PVC case.

24 professional makeup brushes
Designed for foundation, blush, eye shadow, and more
Bristles made from natural animal hair and synthetic fibers
Fold-up leather case for easy transport
Dimensions: 9.85" (L) x 4.9" (W) x 1.9" (H)

Included Brushes

Bevel eyebrow/eyeliner brush
Concealer brush
Eyebrow and eyelash comb
Eyelash brush
Eye-shadow brush
Fine eyeliner brush
Foundation brush
Highlight brush
Large bevel contour brush
Large eye-shadow brush
Large powder brush
Lip brush
Medium bevel eyebrow/eye shadow
Medium bevel eye-shadow brush
Nose-shadow brush
One large fan-shaped extra-powder brush
Powder and blush brush
Small bevel eyebrow/eye shadow brush
Small fan-shaped extra-powder brush
Sponge eye-shadow brush
Two medium eye-shadow brushes
Two small eye-shadow brushes
Roll-up leather case

My Readers save $120 Off Ellóre Femme 24 peice makeup brush set with promo code BL29 http://www.ellorefemme.com/usd/24pc-make-up-brush-set.html
Regular Price: US $149.99

Blog Price: $29.99 with Promo Code: BL29

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Because I am posting about the Ellóre Femme Make Up Brush Kit I am getting a FREE 24 piece makeup brush set (a $149 value). Thanks to USFamilyGuide.com for providing me this promotion information. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for posting this promo.

Merry Christmas, Splat ...and More Winter Stories: Scholastic Storybook Treasures DVD Review

I received this DVD for free to facilitate this review.

I love Scholastic Storybook Treasures! They take story books and bring them to life through animation. You can collect them all and even read along with the story on screen if you choose to.

Merry Christmas, Splat ...and More Winter Stories is a wonderful collection of 4 snowy stories that will be sure to warm your heart.

MERRY CHRISTMAS, SPLAT (Written and illustrated by Rob Scotton, narrated by John Keating) This is an adorable story of a cat named Splat who tries a little too hard to be good before Santa’s arrival so he can get what he wishes for most on Christmas day. Anyone who has ever been a child waiting for Christmas morning knows how much the excitement and anticipation sometimes get the best of us. This is a great story that is purrfect for all ages.

FLETCHER AND THE SNOWFLAKE CHRISTMAS (By Julia Rawlinson, illustrated by Tiphanie Beeke, narrated by Katherine Kellgren) It’s Christmas Eve and Fletcher the fox wonders how Santa will find the rabbits' new burrow because they have moved. His big heart will touch yours. I love the beautiful illustrations and gorgeous layout of words that this has.

SNOWFLAKE BENTLEY (By Jacqueline Briggs Martin, illustrated by Mary Azarian, narrated by Sean Astin) This is the story of Willie Bentley, who was a pioneering scientist who loved and learned all about snowflakes. I loved learning about this inquisitive boy who loved everything about the snow and wanted the world to see how beautiful snowflakes were. He was the first to capture snowflakes as photographs. This story makes you realize how big the world is in retrospect and how you need to slow down and take a closer look at it.

OWL MOON (Written and narrated by Jane Yolen, illustrated by John Schoenherr) This story is a wonderful story about a girl and her father as they search the moonlit woods for a Great Horned Owl. This being the girls first trip she is excited to say the least, but she remembers her fathers words that she should not make a sound while owling. This is a sweet bond of father and daughter relationships and a nature walk in the snowy night that will not soon be forgotten.

Bonus Features Behind-the-Scenes Look at Creating the Animation for Fletcher and the Snowflake Christmas; Read-Along. This DVD is Approx. 36 minutes + extras. Recommended for ages 3-7.

Download some fun free printables on PDF to go along with this DVD!

BUY IT
You can purchase the Scholastic Storybook Treasures Merry Christmas, Splat DVD on New Kideo for $14.95 as of this posting.

For more information on this title or any other Scholastic Storybook Treasures release, visit www.newkideo.com. Also, visit New Kideo, the online home for the DVD line, at their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/NewKideo

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received product for free to facilitate my review. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review. 

Biblical Names of Christ Heirloom Ornaments Review

We received product free from Deseret Book and Zions Mercantile to facilitate this review.

The Biblical Names of Christ Heirloom Ornaments are a wonderful reminder of what the true meaning of Christmas is all about. These Christ-centered holiday ornaments are great to display on a tree, as gift tags, or adorning a wreath on the front door. Each star has a one of the sacred biblical names of the Savior across it and comes nestled in a box of shredded brown paper with a viewing window to see them through the lid. On the back of the box they come in, a scripture reference accompanies each name. Since there are 12 of these they are perfect for a "Twelve Days of Christmas" countdown. Jesus is the reason for the season. Ornament size: 3¼" x 3¼". *Hooks & twine NOT included.

These decorations are made of tin-like metal and have a rustic antique pewter finish to them. They won't break if dropped by little ones, but the holes at the top are fragile if bent too much and I could see them breaking off if mishandled. We also would have loved the name on one side and the scripture reference on the other, not just the reference on the box.

We love to reflect this time of year about the birth of Jesus and love to have something to display that helps us do so. These stars are a great scripture reference tool and they can be incorporated well with Family Home Evening or family devotionals. I had my kids hang each one on our tree while I read the scripture to the one they were hanging. Then we had a discussion about them. It was a great family experience.

Included are:

• Lamb of God - John 1:29
• Emmanuel - Matthew 1:23
• Bread of Life - John 6:35
• The Light - John 8:12
• Lord of Lords - Revelation 17:14
• Redeemer - Job 19:25
• King of Israel - John 12:13
• Shepherd - John 10:11
• Prince of Peace - Isaiah 9:6
• Mediator - 1 Timothy 2:5
• Living Water - John 4:10
• King of Kings - Revelation 17:14

List Price $19.95

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received products for free to facilitate my review. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Christmas From Heaven Book and Mormon Tabernacle Choir DVD Review

We received product free from Shadow Mountain to facilitate this review.

The Christmas From Heaven book and Mormon Tabernacle Choir DVD is the heartfelt true story of a young cargo pilot by the name of Gail Halvorsen in the US Army Air Corps who was assigned to fly in much needed supplies to a war-torn, Soviet-blockaded Berlin. Not only did he do this duty, but he went far above and beyond to give some beacon of hope to the children living there as well. With his acts of kindness he became known as The Candy Bomber or Uncle Wiggly Wings and spread the joy of giving to other sympathetic Americans.

This story touched my heart and helped me get into the true spirit of Christmas. I loved the book with the wonderful illustrations and actual photographs. Tom Brokaw is a great storyteller as well as a newsman. He tells the story beautifully of "Hal's" generosity. I loved the DVD that came along with the book. The narration that Tom gives with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir singing in the background is profound. I love the portrayal of the events by the children and actual parachutes of candy falling from inside the Tabernacle. We also get to meet the Candy Bomber himself on the DVD, now 90 something years young, and wearing his uniform from when he was in service. This book and DVD is a wonderful addition to my library and I think it will become our new tradition to read and watch it every Christmas.

List Price $21.99, Hardcover. Now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and at select retailers nationwide.

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received products for free to facilitate my review. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Blu-ray #MovieMagic Giveaway and Blog App

I have the opportunity to give away a Blu-ray #MovieMagic DVD below free for posting this information. All information and giveaway prizes are provided by PartnersHub.

You Haven’t Seen Your Favorite Movie Until You’ve Seen the Special Features!

This Holiday rediscover the #MovieMagic behind your favorite films. Blu-ray offers exclusive special features that put you in the filmmaker’s chair, with a behind-the-scenes access to all of the magic: Special effects, talent interviews, alternative endings, unreleased scenes, bloopers, and more!

With a Blu-ray combo pack, you can enjoy your favorite films in high-definition whenever and wherever you want. You can keep the Blu-ray disc in the living room, DVD in the car, and the digital copy on your phone for when you’re on the move!

Grab your favorite movie lover a Blu-ray this holiday!

Highlights:

• With the combo pack you can take your favorite films wherever you go. You can keep the Blu-ray disc in the living room, DVD for the car, and the digital copy on your mobile phone while on the move!
• Blu-ray lets you to watch your favorite movies with unmatched sound and video that is SIX TIMES the quality of DVDs!
• Blu-ray offers the most premium possible in home entertainment experience
• You don’t have to worry about the buffering that happens with streaming videos

Announcing the Blu-ray #MovieMagic Blog App!

Blog App:

• Behind-the-Scenes #MovieMagic GIF Grid - Mouse over each of the GIF squares and click to view a behind-the-scenes clip exclusively from the film's Blu-ray special features.
• The Next Generation of Blu-ray - Don't get left behind with old tech! Check out what's next for Blu-ray in 2014 and beyond!
• Get Social With It! Tweet using the #MovieMagic hashtag to get and get excited about these movies for the holidays!

WIN IT
Prize: a copy of ONE of the following Blu-ray #MovieMagic DVDs to award a lucky reader! (Prize will be chosen randomly from the titles below!)

• The Little Mermaid - Diamond Edition
• The Lone Ranger
• Monsters University
• Angels Sing
• Rise of The Guardians
• Despicable Me 2
• Turbo
• Grown Ups 2
• Wizard of Oz 3D
• The Wolverine
• Star Trek: Into Darkness
• White House Down
• Fast 6
• Pacific Rim
• After Earth
• Man of Steel
• Red 2
• World War Z
• 2 Guns
• Weeds: The Complete Collection
• Predator 3D 

Giveaway open to the U.S. Each household is only eligible to win 1 ONE #MovieMagic Title [CHOSEN AT RANDOM] via blog reviews and giveaways. Only one entrant per mailing address per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you will not be eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

I am trying out Rafflecopter on my blog. Please click on this post link if you do not see the script for it below. Also, if there is anything that is wrong with it let me know by emailing me: finamoon AT gmail DOT com I will try my best at fixing it. Thanks for being awesome readers!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Because I am posting about the Blu-ray #MovieMagic Blog App I am getting a Blu-ray #MovieMagic Movie free for my readers as a giveaway. Thanks to PartnersHub for providing me this promotion information and free product. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for posting this blog app and giveaway.

Despicable Me 2 and Twinkies: Dress Up A Twinkie Like A Minion Sweepstakes

This post is sponsored by Hostess and Universal Studios.

Head on over to Hostess on Facebook. They are celebrating with Universal Studios the Despicable Me 2 release on Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD with The Twinkie Minion Makeover Sweepstakes! The Limited Edition Minion Makeover Packaging hits shelves as the holiday season gets underway.

• What: Get your creativity on and have fun dressing up our favorite golden, crème-filled treats and “Minion-ize” their Twinkies for the chance to win great prizes.
• When: Now through January 5, 2014
• Where: https://www.facebook.com/Hostess and https://www.Facebook.com/Hostess/app_170621563134175
• How: Download a collection of Minion accessories, and make your own Twinkie Minion. You can then upload pictures of your creations to enter to win a daily instant prize
• Prizes: Despicable Me 2 Blu-ray™ and special offers from Hostess, or the grand prize, which includes a Home Theater System, a collection of 30 Blu-rays and a year’s supply of Hostess treats.

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: In exchange for a post about Despicable Me 2 and Twinkies: Dress Up A Twinkie Like A Minion Sweepstakes I will be getting $30.

World Vision Philippines Disaster Response Fund #GivingTuesday

This post is sponsored by World Vision.

Giving Tuesday is coming up and what better way to give back than help out the Philippines Disaster Response Fund on the World Vision website.

On October 15, 2013 a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Bohol island, then on November 7th Typhoon Haiyan (locally known as Yolanda and possibly the strongest tropical cyclone to make a landfall on record) slammed the Philippines, then on November 12th a 4.8 earthquake struck them again. An estimated 11.8 million people are affected, including 4.7 million children. Thousands are dead and millions more need emergency assistance.

The Philippines is very vulnerable to natural disasters. It is hit by an average of 19 typhoons a year and since they are a string of volcanic islands they are prone to earthquakes, tsunamis, flooding, and landslides. Ongoing efforts are required for relief.

• $24 can provide essential supplies like a blanket and mosquito net.
• $33 can supply a hygiene kit for a family.
• $35 can provide a food kit to feed a family for 7 days.
• $184 can give a family an emergency shelter.
• $285 can provide the essentials that a family needs to survive, including food, clean water, shelter, education, and Child-Friendly Spaces.

The World Vision is speedily trying to meet the most urgent needs of food, clean water, and emergency shelter for millions of people living there. Your gift will help provide vital help to children and families devastated by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. Please give back this holiday season!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: In exchange for a post about World Vision and their efforts with the Philippines, World Vision offered me a choice of one item free from a list of items from the 2013 World Vision Gift Catalog for review later on my blog. I chose the Silver Vines Cuff. Proceeds from these items go towards supporting all of World Vision’s efforts, not just emergency aid in the Philippines.