Top 5 Hottest New Games For The Holidays From Ubisoft

 

Looking for the hottest new games for all the gamers on your shopping list this holiday season?  I’ve partnered up with Ubisoft to bring your my top 5 favorite picks that I think are going to be smash hits this year.  If you’re got a gamer or two on your list, check out these five games that I’m absolutely head over heels for:

 

#1 South Park: The Fractured But Whole

Every hero has a beginning.  Are you an alien, a high-tech wonder, or a genetically altered mutant?  Create your own one-of-a-kind costume, craft your origin story, and build out your unique superpowers to become the hero this city needs.

EXPLORE SOUTH PARK AT NIGHT – Not only has South Park grown with new places to explore and new characters to discover, but when the sun sets, havoc and chaos reign as the seedy underbelly of South Park comes alive. At night, a whole new world opens up where your alter ego can harness its powers to do whatever it takes to save the town.

COON AND FRIENDS, ASSEMBLE! – Recruit up to 12 members of Coon and Friends to your cause, including Mysterion, The Human Kite, and the infamous Coon himself.  Combine your special powers with the heroes from Coon and Friends to eliminate anyone that gets in your way and defeat the dark power that has spread its evil tentacles over South Park.

AN OUTRAGEOUS RPG ADVENTURE – An all-new dynamic combat system offers new opportunities to manipulate time and space on the battlefield, and a revamped looting and crafting system gives you the freedom to develop and refine your powers as you progress through the game. Find loot hidden throughout the land and follow recipes to craft your own outrageous equipment to aid you in battle.

AUTHENTIC SOUTH PARK – Created, written, voiced, and directed by Trey Parker and Matt Stone, South Park: The Fractured But Whole is authentic, interactive South Park at its finest – hilarious, outrageous, and a whole lot of fun. Everything is bigger, longer, and goes deeper than before.  Come on down to South Park and have yourself a time.

 

#2 Assassin’s Creed Origins

In the newest addition to the ever-popular Assassin’s Creed games, you’ll be able to experience the mysteries of ancient Egypt.  Uncover lost tombs, explore the pyramids, and discover the secrets of mummies, the gods, and the last pharaohs.

A COUNTRY TO DISCOVER – Sail down the Nile, uncover the mysteries of the pyramids or fight your way against dangerous ancient factions and wild beasts as you explore this gigantic and unpredictable land.

EMBRACE ACTION-RPG – Experience a completely new way to fight.  Loot and use dozens of weapons with different characteristics and rarities.  Explore deep progression mechanics and challenge your skills against unique and powerful bosses.

A NEW STORY EVERY TIME YOU PLAY – Engage into multiple quests and gripping stories as you cross paths with strong and memorable characters, from the wealthiest high-born to the most desperate outcasts.

Powerful forces are shifting the sands of Egypt’s destiny.  Discover the players that will decide the fate of an empire, and travel back to the origins of the Creed.

 

#3 Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle

The Mushroom Kingdom has been torn apart by a mysterious vortex, transporting the chaotic Rabbids into this once-peaceful land.  To restore order, Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Yoshi must team up with a whole new crew: four Rabbids heroes!  Together, they will battle with weapons through four worlds filled with combat, puzzles, and unpredictable enemies.

Developed exclusively for the Nintendo Switch system, Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle is the best of the Mario and Rabbids franchises, combining all that you love about Mario’s iconic universe with the side-splitting antics of the Rabbids.

Mario & Rabbids universes collide in this new adventure that combines the best of these two worlds!  Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Yoshi join forces with four Rabbids heroes with their own unique personalities.  Easy to play, difficult to master. Solo and co-op turn-based combat is a fresh gameplay experience.  Battle with an arsenal of weapons through four new worlds filled with enemies, puzzles, and humorous fun!

Pick up and play anywhere exclusively on the Nintendo Switch system, even on the go.

 

#4 Rayman Legends

Rayman, Globox, and the Teensies are off wandering through an enchanted forest when they discover a mysterious tent filled with a series of captivating paintings. As they look more closely, they notice each painting seems to tell the story of a mythical world. While focusing on a painting that shows a medieval land, they are suddenly sucked into the painting, entering the world, and the adventure begins. The gang must run, jump, and fight their way through each world to save the day and discover the secrets of every legendary painting.

Join the team with up to 4 players in local co-op!  Compete with your friends in tournaments with the Kung Foot experience (local wireless multiplayer).  Run, jump & smack your way through 100+ maps.  Jump to the rhythm and rock the party to beat the crazy musical levels.

 

#5 Just Dance 2018

Whether you’re a party starter, a dancer in the making, or a seasoned pro, get ready to turn up the volume and unleash your inner dancer with Just Dance 2018!

Dance to 40 of the hottest tracks, including “24K Magic,” by Bruno Mars, “Side to Side,” by Ariana Grande Ft. Nicki Minaj, “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee, “Swish Swish” by Katy Perry Ft. Nicki Minaj, “Naughty Girl” by Beyoncé, and many more!

Get the new exclusive Mario dance and play two-handed choreographies, only on Nintendo Switch™!

Check out the full song list for all the great hits you can move and groove to:

  • LUIS FONSI & DADDY YANKEE “DESPACITO”
  • ED SHEERAN “SHAPE OF YOU”
  • KATY PERRY FT. NICKI MINAJ “SWISH SWISH”
  • LADY GAGA “JOHN WAYNE”
  • BRUNO MARS “24K MAGIC”
  • BEYONCÉ “NAUGHTY GIRL”
  • ARIANA GRANDE FT. NICKI MINAJ “SIDE TO SIDE”
  • MICHELLE DELAMOR “KEEP ON MOVING”
  • YEMI ALADE “TUMBUM”
  • GIGI ROWE “GOT THAT”
  • SELENA GOMEZ “BAD LIAR”
  • SPENCER LUDWIG “DIGGY”
  • HIT THE ELECTRO BEAT “BLUE (DA BA DEE)”
  • SHAKIRA “WAKA WAKA (THIS TIME FOR AFRICA)”
  • DUA LIPA “BLOW YOUR MIND (MWAH)”
  • DNCE “KISSING STRANGERS”
  • CLEAN BANDIT FT.SEAN PAUL & ANNE-MARIE “ROCKABYE”
  • BEBE REXHA FT. LIL WAYNE “THE WAY I ARE (DANCE WITH SOMEBODY)”
  • JAMIROQUAI “AUTOMATON”
  • SHAKIRA FT. MALUMA “CHANTAJE”
  • HYUNA “BUBBLE POP!”
  • HATSUNE MIKU “LOVE WARD”
  • HEADHUNTERZ & KSHMR “DHARMA”
  • QUEEN “ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST”
  • GROOVE CENTURY “DADDY COOL”
  • LILDEUCEDEUCE FT. BLACKGRYPH0N & TOMSKA “BEEP BEEP I’M A SHEEP”
  • BIG FREEDIA “MAKE IT JINGLE”
  • JUST DANCE TEAM “ALL YOU GOTTA DO”
  • DISNEY’S MOANA “HOW FAR I’LL GO”
  • JORGE BLANCO “RISKY BUSINESS”
  • JAX JONES FT. DEMI LOVATO & STEFFLON DON “INSTRUCTION”
  • WANKO NI MERO MERO “SAYONARA”
  • THE SUNLIGHT SHAKERS “POLKA DOT BIKINI”
  • DANCING BROS. “IN THE HALL OF THE PIXEL KING”
  • PSY “NEW FACE”
  • JUST DANCE ORCHESTRA “CARMEN (OVERTURE)”
  • IGGY AZALEA FT. ZEDD “BOOM BOOM”

 

No matter what the gamer on your list is in to, Ubisoft has them covered this year with all of these super fun games that will entertain every gamer from young to old.

Make sure you follow Ubisoft on their social media channels so you don’t miss any of the great games and upcoming releases Ubisoft has to offer:

 

***I did not receive any financial compensation, simply the product free to me in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion***

3 Books That Are Perfect For Little Readers This Holiday Season

 

Do you have little ones that love to read on your holiday shopping list?  My kiddos LOVE books, so I thought I’d share a few of our newest favorites with you all.  Whether you and your little like to read stories at bed time, or if your kiddos are older and like doing activity books, these three books will be sure to get you on your way to making those little readers happy as clams this holiday season.

 

#1 Peep And Egg: I’m Not Taking A Bath

In this lively addition to the funny Peep and Egg picture book series for toddlers, a reluctant chick named Egg overcomes her aversion to taking a bath.

Peep thinks Egg needs to take a bath after playing in the mud . But Egg is not taking a bath.  Not in the river, not in the duck pond, and definitely not in the dog’s water bowl—too slobbery!  Does Peep have any tricks up her feathers to help a chick change her mind?  Laura Gehl and Joyce Wan are back with another fun, colorful story that takes the “not” out of “I’m not taking a bath!”

 

#2 Aliens Get The Sniffles Too

Little Alien is sick. And sick is extra-terrestrial bad when you have two scratchy throats, five ears that hurt, and three runny noses.  Splatch! Sputter! Spurt!  Luckily Mama and Daddy Alien have an arsenal of lunar decongestants and meteor showers on hand to make him feel a little better (not to mention a Milky Way milkshake to help the medicine go down).  Even so, the family’s alien pooch, Mars Rover, can’t stand to see his little buddy feeling out of sorts.  Can a loyal pup’s funny tricks finally coax a smile?

 

#3 All-Star Activity Book (A Sport’s Illustrated Kids Book)

 

Hidden pictures, dot-to-dot, trivia, word search, mazes, and funny fill-ins are just some of the engrossing activities sports-loving kids will find in this full-color game book jam-packed with more than 150 photographs and illustrations. Have you ever wanted to know what quarterback shares your personality traits? There’s a quiz for that! All the sports kids love–from soccer to baseball to gymnastics and more–are covered in the All-Star Activity Book making this the perfect companion for road trips, plane rides, or just keeping busy without screens after school.

 

These books would make the perfect addition to any stocking, or even a Christmas Eve box for a fun new story or activity book for before bed.  Make sure you’ve got the little readers on your list covered this holiday season with any of these great books.

 

***I did not receive any financial compensation, simply the product free to me in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion***

Sneaky, Snacky Fun With The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel

 

 

If you have younger children to shop for this holiday season, The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel is a super fun way to mix up the same boring old gifts.  With a super fun lift-the-flap book and a board game full of excitement, there are a couple great gifts that you can give with the super cute Sneaky Snacky Squirrel.

 

 

The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game is a hit for players both young and old.  In this game you’ll have to help all your forest friends before winter hits!  Your forest friends are hungry and they need your help!  Spin the spinner, squeeze the matching colored acorn with your Squirrel Squeezer, and place it into your log . Be the first to fill your log with delicious acorns and you win!   But be careful!  One gust of the wind and you could lose all your acorns and have to start all over again!  You’ll also have the chance to steal acorns from other players but be on guard because they can steal from your log too!

With the Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel game, it’s not just all fun and games…your little ones are learning at the same time too!  The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel game helps children:

  • Reinforce color learning
  • Develop strategic thinking, hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and pre-handwriting skills
  • Work on social skills and turn-taking
  • Practice memory and attention skills
  • Learn simple math skills at an early age

Inside your Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game box, you’ll find:

  • 1 Squirrel Squeezer
  • 20 colored acorns
  • 1 game spinner
  • 4 logs
  • 1 game board (which also doubles as packaging!)

 

 

If you’re looking for more Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel fun, you have to check out the SneakySnacky Squirrel Book.  The SneakySnacky Squirrel Book is a new book (just released in September 2017) based on the super fun, best-selling board game of the same name.

Winter is just around the corner, and the Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel has stored all of his acorns away.  The problem is, he hid them so well that now he can’t remember where they are!   With this fun book, little ones will lift the numerous flaps to find all of the squirrels acorns throughout the story.  There are extra flaps with other hidden items which make great ways to bring up other topics with little ones such as “where does this item belong?” “what color is this item?” or “who do you think hid this here?”.

The recommended ages for these items are 3-5 years, but my daughter is 6 and she still absolutely loved the Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel book and game as well.  If you’ve got little ones to shop for this holiday season, you definitely need to check out the Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel!

 

***I did not receive any financial compensation, simply the product free to me in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion***

Check Out The Epic New Call Of Duty World War 2 And See Why It’s Going To Be One Of The Hottest New Releases This Holiday Season

 

Are you as excited as my family and I are for the new Call Of Duty World War II??  In this epic new game, Call of Duty returns to its historical roots with Call of Duty: World War II.   COD WWII players will enlist in an unforgettable journey of brotherhood across the European theater in a mission vital to the success of the Allied powers.  If you’ve got a gamer on your holiday shopping list this year, you absolutely HAVE to check out this game!

 

 

Just in time for the holidays, Call Of Duty WWII is now available for digital download and at retailers worldwide.  This game is loaded with an incredible amount of content, and delivers a variety of new ways for all players to connect, compete, and engage as a community across the different unique modes of play. The story campaign immerses players into an intense journey filled with gripping action and epic battles.  Players follow the story of Ronald “Red” Daniels, a member of the US 1st Infantry Division, who joins British forces and the French Resistance, and battle across the beaches of Normandy, to the liberation of Paris and ultimately into Germany.

 

 

Call of Duty: WWII multiplayer is a fast-paced, grounded, and action-packed mode set in some of the most iconic locations in World War II’s European theater with an arsenal of iconic weapons and equipment to suit different play styles and innovative ways to experience the mode.

War Mode: War Mode is an all-new game mode where players must work as a team to defeat the enemy. This narrative-driven Multiplayer experience, developed in partnership with Raven Software, immerses players in iconic World War II locations. Allied and Axis forces clash in team-driven assault and defend missions for key strategic objectives.

Divisions: Divisions fundamentally redefines how players invest in their Multiplayer career. This is a reimagining of the create-a-class system, and players will choose from five iconic World War II divisions each with specific division training and division weapon skills. This streamlined approach to Multiplayer gives players the ability to reinforce their individual play styles while dominating the enemy in some of the most iconic locations of the world’s largest conflict.

  • Airborne Division: The first to the fight, the Airborne Division moves fast and stays quiet, armed with undetectable silenced SMGs
  • Mountain Division: Death from a distance, the Mountain Division, with their sharpshooter focus and sniper rifles, is precise and deadly
  • Infantry Division: Extremely versatile, the Infantry Division is equipped for mid to long range rifle engagements and up-close-and-personal bayonet charges
  • Armored Division: Bringing the heaviest firepower, the Armored Division is armed to the teeth with explosives and LMG firepower
  • Expeditionary Division: Packing heat, the Expeditionary Division is well-equipped with incendiary rounds and shotguns

Headquarters: Headquarters is an all new off-the-frontlines experience for Call of Duty players. Players will compete, earn rewards, show off their accomplishments, and connect with fans and friends. Unlike anything experienced in Call of Duty to date, Headquarters transforms the Multiplayer experience by redefining how players engage with the game and with each other.

Boots On The Ground Gameplay: Multiplayer marks a return to iconic boots on the ground Call of Duty gameplay that fans know and love. This return to classic combat makes for more strategic, grounded and meaningful Multiplayer engagements

Nazi Zombies: co-operative Nazi Zombies mode unleashes a new and original story, in this next-level standalone game experience full of unexpected, adrenaline-pumping moments.

 

If you somehow maybe live under a rock and haven’t seen the trailer (and why Call Of Duty WWII is going to be one of the most epic COD games yet) check it out below and get COD WWII on your holiday shopping list NOW:

 

 

***I did not receive any financial compensation, simply the product free to me in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion***

Christmas Gifts Boys Will Love From Havex And Awesome Little Green Men

 

If you have young boys on your shopping list this holiday season, chances are you’re struggling to find a great gift.  It ALWAYS seems like shopping for my sons is SO much hard than it is for my daughter.  I found a couple great gifts from Havex and Awesome Little Green Men and I wanted to share them with you all because I think they’re going to make the absolute perfect gift this holiday season.

MECH BUG – HAVEX MACHINES AUTO TRANSFORMING VEHICLE

 

 

Race. Transform. Battle.  Get ready to witness the only vehicle line with automatic transformations with Havex Machines.  Race your micro car into the battle pod to reveal your land, sea or air vehicle.  These vehicles are a lot of fun for boys of all ages, whether they’re 2 or 12.  The auto transformation is especially great for young users so there’s no frustration having to transform the vehicle on their own.  My 12 year old son really loves how the car holds itself into place while inside the battle pod so I’m sure that’s also a feature younger users will love as well.

Havex Mech Bug Features:

  • Comes with an orange micro car that magically transforms the battle pod into a Mech Bug
  • Automatic transforming land, sea or air vehicles
  • Race your micro car into the battle pod to initiate the automatic transformation, revealing your battling vehicle
  • Includes: one micro car, one transforming Havex Machines vehicle and a collector’s guide

 

AWESOME LITTLE GREEN MEN SERIES 1 STARTER PACK SHARPSHOOTERS

 

 

Awesome Little Green Men is the new military collectible line that combines blind-boxed soldiers and vehicles with a gameplay experience.  Collect and Play the Battle Game.  Only you can unveil their stats to build the strongest troop and win the battle!  Starter Packs feature three soldiers from the Sharpshooters and a mystery soldier.  It’s the perfect way to start recruiting and preparing to battle.

Awesome Little Green Men Series 1 Starter Pack Sharpshooters Features:

  • Comes with four soldiers from the Ranger Unit, four dog tags and chain, new recruit’s poster, game guide and includes one mystery soldier
  • Collect & play the battle game with the included game guide
  • 100 plus new recruits to collect. Recruit them all and look for the rare Special Forces & ultra rare Generals Poster.
  • A perfect way to collect 4 Men from one branch.

 

AWESOME LITTLE GREEN MEN BLIND BOXES

 

 

Whether you’re adding some blind boxes to the starter packs or just looking for a few fun additions to your little one’s stocking this year your can’t go wrong with the Awesome Little Green Men Blind Boxes.  Each blind box comes with one figure and their dogtag that has all of their information on it.  Who will you get?  You never know…half the fun is in the surprise.

 

There are quite a few options available from Havex and Awesome Little Green Men so make sure you check out all they have to offer so you can find the ones that are just right for all the lucky little ones on your shopping list this holiday season.

 

***I did not receive any financial compensation, simply the product free to me in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion***

Meet The Chippies…A Pack Of Zippy, Interactive, Robotic Pups

 

Do you have a little one who’s been begging for a pet but it’s just not reasonable for whatever reasons?  Digital pets are a great option and will be the hottest gift under the Christmas tree this year.  If you haven’t heard of the Chippies for WowWee yet, they are simply just the cutest little interactive R/C pups out there.

 

 

Meet the Chippies!  A pack of zippy, interactive, robotic pups.  They’re loveable, playful, and sometimes a little mischievous – just like real puppies!  Chippies are playful puppies who love to show off their many tricks. Pet their heads for different reactions including sniffs, barks, puppy kisses, and even a sneeze!  Use the remote control to make your pet dance, sing, chase its tail, or tell it which way to roll.  Chippies explore your room on their own or guard it from intruders using their sensors, and will also sing together as a pack.  With bright LED eyes & posable hind legs, Chippies toys make great gifts for kids 5 and up.  My daughter is 6 and she absolutely loves her little Chippies pack. Take your pick of the litter with different styles and personalities – there’s a puppy for everyone!  These pups have as much energy as the kids playing with them…whether they’re zipping down halls, having a dance party, or exploring their environment, these pups are ready to play at any time of day!

The technology behind these super cute pets is some of the best out there, and after one play session with your new pup (or pups) you’ll see why they’re the best.  When you play with your Chippies, your touch is “felt” using capacitive sensor technology.  The sensors have a good sensitivity level so you don’t have to press hard which is nice…less frustration for younger users.  Accelerometers & gyroscopes measure g-force and orientation, helping your Chippies sense when it is being picked up.

 

 

There are four different Chippies available, all smaller in size than the original CHiP™ robot dog:

  • Chipper – this playful prankster is a funny dog who’s always eager to play and make you laugh.
  • Chipette – she’s got sass and she’s got class!  This loveable pink puppy with purple ears and a heart-shaped collar is ready for you to call her your own.
  • Chippo – your favorite watch doggie. This little black puppy with a gold doggy-bone collar prides himself on being the toughest of the CHiPPiES pack.
  • Chippella – she’s a sassy, classy lady pup!  This white and pink puppy with a heart-shaped collar is a very loveable member of the CHiPPiES family, and a limited edition model – available exclusively at Toys ‘R’ Us.

Check out the Chippies in action:

 

With the various color options and personality traits, there’s a little robo-pup perfect for all the little ones on your shopping list this holiday season.  Make sure you check out all the cool new toys from WowWee to make sure you’ve got little ones of all ages covered with the hottest holiday wish list gifts.

 

***I did not receive any financial compensation, simply the product free to me in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion***

Celebrating Christmas with Palmer + 5 Adorable DIY Teacher’s Gifts

 

Looking for some fun ways to mix things up this holiday season?  I got tired of doing the same old thing so I took some of my absolute favorite treats from R.M. Palmer and got a little creative.

If there’s one thing I remember about the holidays as a child, it was getting a variety of R.M. Palmer chocolates and they were always so festive!  Palmer has been crafting seasonal chocolate novelties since 1948, so it’s no surprise that millions choose them each year for their holiday themed treats.  You just can’t celebrate a holiday without some great chocolate, right?!  That’s why this holiday season all of my favorite chocolates for stocking stuffers and teacher’s gifts are made with the Palmer chocolates I’ve loved since I was a kid.

 

 

Some of my Palmer favorites are staples this holiday season, and of course my kids can expect to see them in their stockings this year (again).  If you’re looking to either add some tasty treats to your little ones stockings or recreate any of the DIY teacher’s gifts I made, you’ll need the following:

 

DIY TEACHER GIFT #1

 

How cute is this little Palmer Christmas tree?   Using a few dots of hot glue you’ll be able to gift this little tree to any deserving teacher.  For the base, take 2 Red Foiled Caramel Filled Cups, glue them together, let dry.  For the tree you’ll need 10 Kiwi Green Foiled Caramel Filled Balls.  Stack the 10 caramel filled balls together in a pyramid, glue them together, let dry.  Once the base and tree have both dried, you’ll be able to attach them together for a super cute tree that’s delicious too!

 

DIY TEACHER GIFT #2

 

This gold gift is a really easy option to make so if you’re not the most crafty person, this one should still be very easy to achieve.  You’ll need 16 Gold Foiled Peanut Butter Cups and just some ribbon that you might have laying around.  Made 4 stacks of 4 peanut butter cups and let them dry.  Once they’re dry, attach them together, add some ribbon, and you’ve got a gift that’s both cute and tasty!

 

DIY TEACHER GIFT #3 

 

Who doesn’t love a candy cane, right?  Whether you’re gifting these cute chocolate candy canes or hanging them on your tree you can’t go wrong with this chocolatey spin on a classic Christmas favorite.  All you’ll need is 5 Silver Foiled Caramel Filled Balls and 4 Red Foiled Caramel Filled Balls with a few dabs of hot glue and you’re all set!

 

DIY TEACHER GIFT #4 

 

Rudolph is probably the most recognizable reindeer of them all, and you guessed it, you can make him with your favorite Palmer chocolates too.  For this cutie pie you’ll need 6 Silver Foiled Peppermint Patties, 6 Gold Foiled Peanut Butter Cups, and one Red Foiled Caramel Filled Ball.  Stack 2 peppermint patties together (x3), glue, and let dry.  Offset 3 peanut butter cups (x2), glue together, and let dry.  Once your pieces are dry, glue them together and add the iconic glowing red nose.  You can either draw eyes on the peppermint patties or add googly eyes for a fun effect.

 

DIY TEACHER GIFT #5

 

You can’t have Christmas without snow and this Palmer snowflake is a great way to bring some of the snow indoors.  For this one you’ll need 2 Silver Foiled Peppermint Patties and 12 Silver Foiled Peanut Butter Cups.  Stack the 2 peppermint patties together to form the center, glue, and let dry.  Make 6 stacks of 2 peanut butter cups each, glue together, and let dry.  Once your pieces are dry, glue them together to form a super cute, tasty snowflake!  (Just make sure you let it dry once assembled before you stand it up.)

 

Looking for a tasty Palmer inspired treat to take to holiday parties?  How about some ooey gooey peanut butter cup brownies?

Peanut butter and chocolate are the ultimate combination of sweet goodness, so it was a no-brainer that I combine Palmer Peanut Butter Cups with brownie batter for a holiday treat your guests won’t be able to get enough of.  For this treat, you’ll need 50 peanut butter cups, but I promise you, so many of them is SO worth it.  Once you prepare your brownie batter, pour half into a prepared baking dish.  Add 30 unwrapped peanut butter cups to the batter that’s in the baking dish, and top with the remaining batter.  While your brownies are baking, unwrap the remaining 20 peanut butter cups and quarter them, then set aside.  Once your brownies come out of the oven, give them a few minutes to cool down, then add the 20 peanut butter cups your quartered.  Let your brownies cool completely, then slice, serve, and enjoy.

 

No matter how you celebrate the holidays and who you celebrate them with, you can’t go wrong with Palmer Chocolates.

 

***I did not receive any financial compensation, simply the product free to me in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion***

Friendsgiving Made Easy With Oriental Trading

 

Throwing a Friendsgiving gathering this Thanksgiving season?  Setting the table is a breeze with all of the great stuff you’ll find at Oriental Trading!  Dinner with friends is great, but dessert is even better so I put together a fun Fall inspired Friendsgiving dessert layout for right around $75, how cool is that?  Everyone can serve themselves, and there’s even some super cute containers for guests to take some leftover treats home.

If you’re wondering how you can get the same easy-to-put-together table, here are the items that I used to create this fun Fall festive table:

 

 

Lil’ Pumpkin Cupcake Stand – Inspire pump-grins with a tasty display of desserts! Shaped like a large pumpkin, this cupcake stand is a must-have for birthday decorations or fall party supplies. The three-tiered stand can also be used to hold other party favorites such as small party favor bags or snack cups filled with treats. However you use it, this Lil’ Pumpkin Cupcake Stand is sure to harvest a good time at your fall festivities!

Lil’ Pumpkin Party Food Picks – These made the perfect addition to my Spice Cake Cupcakes!  They’re a great way to tie the whole thing together, down to the very last treat.  Each is topped with an autumn design. Nothing tricky about turning your cupcakes into treats! These picks are also a fun way to decorate your cheese platter, fruit slices and celebration cake.

 

 

Short Round Pedestal Jar – Serve up style on your dessert table with this Short Round Pedestal Jar. A fabulous addition to party decorations for a wedding reception, this clear jar looks great when filled to the brim with colorful candy. Fill this simple and elegant jar with candies, nuts or mints to treat your guests at your wedding reception or bridal shower. It’s pretty, reusable and a wonderful way to serve goodies

Hershey’s Kisses Fall Pumpkin Spice – These Hershey’s® Kisses® Fall Pumpkin Spice Candy will really make it feel like fall! Serve these sweet treats at a Thanksgiving gathering or an autumn party, or use them in festive fall treats! Individually wrapped.

 

 

Clear Footed Cake Stand With Cover – Serve up deliciousness at your gathering with this Footed Cake Stand with Lid. Simple and unassuming, this stand won’t compete with the splendor of your cake, and you can keep it fresh with the lid! Also great for birthday cakes and pies!

 

 

Lil’ Pumpkin Dessert Plates – This adorable orange dessert plate is in the shape of a pumpkin! Add it to your fall party supplies or Lil’ Pumpkin birthday party supplies and serve up some sweet treats or appetizers to your party guests!

Pumpkin Spice Orange Luncheon Napkins – These 50-pc. Pumpkin Spice Orange Luncheon Napkins are perfect for setting near a buffet to keep hands, faces and spaces free from messes. If you’re planning an orange event, birthday party, shower, anniversary or wedding these will fit perfectly.

Lil’ Pumpkin Beverage Napkins – These adorable beverage napkins feature bright colors and pumpkins. Perfect for a fall party or a Lil’ Pumpkin birthday party theme! Keep them near the refreshment or appetizer table for easy access and to prevent those pesky condensation rings!

Pumpkin Spice Orange Plastic Forks – These heavyweight forks are perfect for any orange event. From wedding receptions to graduation parties, birthday parties, showers and everything in between. This durable, premium-quality cutlery will withstand even the most eager of eaters.

Lil’ Pumpkin Paper Cups – Planning a Lil’ Pumpkin birthday party? These adorable cups are perfect for adding to your birthday party supplies! Featuring two colors of orange, this theme is perfect for a fall birthday. Use these dotted cups for any party or celebration.

Orange Chevron Paper Straws – Add these Chevron Paper Straws to your weddings decorations, baby shower tableware, birthday party dessert tables and more! The bright chevron pattern will add a splash of color to any occasion when displayed in a glass or a clear vase.

 

 

Orange Polka Dot Cupcake Boxes With Handle – these super cute boxes are a great way to send treats home with your guests!  The handle makes the cupcakes easy to transport, and the included paper insert helps keep your cupcakes secure.

Pumpkin Pie Favor Boxes – These super cute boxes let you guests take home a slice of the fun.  They get to enjoy long after your party is over, and you won’t be stuck with so many leftovers…it’s a win-win situation!

 

No matter what type of Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving gathering you’re planning, there’s still plenty of time to get your goodies from Oriental Trading delivered to your door.  Make sure you check out their whole selection so you can find the items that are just right for your holiday gatherings.

 

***I did not receive any financial compensation, simply the product free to me in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion***

Top 4 Holiday Movies For Kids From NCircle

 

Looking for great holiday movies for your little ones?  There are a few available from NCircle that my children and I really enjoy.  Whether your little ones are just a couple years old, or on the older side, there’s something for everyone.  These are the perfect movies to get kids in the mood for the holidays or they even make great stocking stuffers or additions to Christmas Eve boxes if you do those (we love doing an Christmas Eve box with new pjs, a new movie, comfy socks, and a few snacks).  These are our 4 favorite holiday movies from NCircle, we hope you’ll enjoy them too:

 

#1 A Very Awesome Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! Holiday Show!

 

Yo Gabba Gabba is a crowd favorite among the younger crowd and this is the perfect holiday DVD for young Yo Gabba Gabba fans everywhere!  A Very Awesome Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! Holiday Show! is really that, it’s AWESOME!  There’s only one thing more fun than Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! And the holidays – putting them together!  Join DJ Lance Rock, Brobee, Foofa, Muno, Plex and Toodee as they dance, sing and decorate the tree to prepare for the arrival of Santa Claus!  Filmed live at New York City’s the Beacon Theatre, celebrate the season with the colorful cast of characters singing their hits, including ‘It’s Wintertime,’ ‘Every Snowflake’s Different, Just Like You’ and a holiday version of everyone’s favorite ‘Party in my Tummy!’.  Including special appearances by superstar Leslie Hall and the one and only Santa Claus!

 

#2 Doozers Giant Gingerbread House

My daughter fell in love with Doozers a while back and loves when we get to see new Doozer adventures.  Doozers: Giant Gingerbread House is a great addition to any Doozer lover’s movie library.  The Pod Squad want to build a Doozer-sized Gingerbread House!  However, in order to achieve such a large size Gingerbread House it’s going to take some clever construction to create.  Can the Pod Squad do it?  Then, Daisy Wheel wants to ice skate with the others, but she doesn’t know how.  Together, the Pod Squad build her a custom Doo-Step Skating Dress that let’s her glide across the ice in no time.  Weee!  Enjoy these adventures and six more focusing on science, technology, engineering and math!

 

#3 Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab: Twas The Night Before Liftoff

Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab: Twas The Night Before Liftoff is a great movie for younger and older audiences to come together and find a movie that they can agree on (which seems impossible in my home sometimes).  Unknown to the world, Thomas Edison built a secret lab where he invented a virtual version of himself and a steampunk robot named Von Bolt.  Years later, Angie, a twelve-year-old science prodigy, discovers the lab.  When an old friend of Edison’s visits the lab and asks the Secret Lab Kids to help him with an urgent, top-secret project, they have to follow him through a wormhole to get to his own secret lab.  Who could this mysterious friend be and what is this top secret project during the holiday season?

 

#4 Sonic Christmas Blast

Sonic Christmas Blast is another great way for audiences of different ages to come together and watch a movie together.  My children are 6, 12, and 14 and it’s not often there’s a movie all 3 will watch together, but this is one of them.  Santa Claus announces his retirement on television and the public is shocked! But it’s Santa’s replacement Robotropolis who has everyone worried. It seems Robotropolis has his own ideas and instead of giving boys and girls gifts Robotropolis would rather receive them. Join Sonic the Hedgehog in an adventure to rescue the spirit of Christmas and bring joy back to the world!

 

These are just a few of the available holiday titles from NCircle, make sure you visit their site and check out everything they have to offer so you can find the holiday themed movies that are the perfect fit for your little ones.

 

***I did not receive any financial compensation, simply the product free to me in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion***

Meet The New Hoverfly XL From GoTrax

 

If you’ve followed my blog for even a short amount of time, you are probably aware of the kind of landscape I live in.  It’s a very rural place in Northern Arizona that doesn’t offer much entertainment and is pretty rough on just about any outdoor toy you can think of.  My kids have been asking for a hoverboard for a while, but I just hadn’t been able to find one that was both affordable and capable of handling the pitiful desert terrain.  When I came across the Hoverfly XL from GoTrax I was cautiously optimistic, and figured I’d FINALLY give into the kids (and husband) and try one of these things out.

 

 

Until now, offroad has been pretty off-limits for hoverboards.  Thanks to the geniuses at GoTrax, everyone can enjoy the fun, including my family.  The Hoverfly XL’s rugged 8.5 inch rubber tires are a heaven send for our terrain which is not only rocky but has pesky goatheads (and if you don’t know what those are, seriously look them up…you think stepping on a Lego is bad??).  The tires aren’t the only thing heavy duty about this bad boy thougth!  The heavy-duty aluminum hubs and durable external shield can take just about whatever you can throw at it.  If it can handle Arizona, what can’t it handle?

 

 

My husband was the first one to test the Hoverfly XL out and he picked up on it SUPER quickly.  This hoverboard is self-balancing and was designed to be easier to master even faster than other boards out there on the market.  The training mode feature is a great way to start off easy, and build up your ability to mount, control, maneuver, and dismount the board.  The zero degree turn radius combined with the non-slip foot pads and fender foot guards help make this a super safe, super maneuverable, super easy to use hoverboard that’s great for the whole family to enjoy!

 

 

When my oldest son got home from school he couldn’t wait to try out the new too.  After a couple attempts to get on and ride with Dad helping him balance he was ready to take off and enjoy the new toy.  Thanks to the Bluetooth feature, I’ve actually found a way to get my 14 year old up off his bed and away from the video games (SAY WHAT?!).  The built in Bluetooth paired to my son’s phone without any issues and his new favorite hobby is riding around listening to his favorite music.  With up to 12 miles on a full charge Kenny is also enjoying his new-found freedom getting to and from friend’s houses that live close enough to ride to but that are a bit too far to walk.  Top speed is 7.4 miles per hour so in just a few minutes he’s able to get from point A to point B and cut out A LOT of walking.

 

 

I told you that my husband got the hang of riding the Hoverfly XL pretty quickly and that was no understatement.  I received the hoverboard October 30th and he wasn’t able to try it out until the afternoon when he got home from work.  The next day, by Halloween evening, he was confident enough in being able to ride that he decided to take the board into town with us when we went trick-or-treating.  When he was moving around on the hoverboard his cape was flapping in the wind and there were SO many kids that were gasping and saying “look mommy, look daddy, Superman is flying!  He’s actually flying!”  That may have just been the best part of the night (for many kids too) and it was definitely a great memory made all thanks to the Hoverfly XL.

 

To see a little bit of how the Hoverfly XL handles the desert terrain, make sure you check out this little clip of my husband riding the hoverboard aroud:

 

 

No matter who you’re shopping for this holiday season, GoTrax should definitely be one of the first places your start you holiday shopping.  There are a few different models available so you can pick the one that’s just right for that lucky someone special on your shopping list.

 

***I did not receive any financial compensation, simply the product free to me in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion***