"Run the Risk" by Lori Foster Excerpt Scavenger Hunt

Start from the beginning or join in here. Follow this link for more excerpts of this book- http://booktrib.com/blog-tour-run-the-risk-by-lori-foster/.

Excerpt from Run the Risk by Lori Foster:

Or at least, she remembered to mumble when a certain neighbor didn’t push her past the breaking point.
                “Well, I think you are,” he said, still watching her, his tone almost…pitying.
                How dare he feel sorry for her?
                Pride rose to the forefront, returning her backbone. “Is that a joke, Mr. Stark?”
                Shifting his stance, he leaned in and—while she held her breath—said with distinct insistence, “Call me Logan.”

The product:

RUN THE RISK

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR LORI FOSTER GOES UNDERCOVER IN STEAMY NEW THRILLER

Lori Foster

A police detective goes undercover to investigate a murder, and his target is a mousy young lady he believes is the link he needs to solve the case. But little does he know that his plain-Jane suspect has her own secrets that will turn his case head over heels before it’s over. From award-winning author Lori Foster comes RUN THE RISK (HQN Books; October 2012; $7.99 U.S./$9.99 CAN.), the first book in her brand-new original series.

When handsome construction worker Logan Riske moves next door to the dowdy young Pepper Yates, she can’t believe her luck. Her new beau has everything she wants in a guy—looks, charm, style.  He also has one thing she doesn’t even suspect—a badge.

Logan is really an undercover cop investigating the homicide of his best friend and he’s sure that the shy, introverted Pepper is concealing the whereabouts of her eyewitness brother, Rowdy. Logan needs Rowdy’s testimony to bring crime boss Morton Andrews to justice for the murder, and he’ll go to any lengths to obtain it—even seducing Rowdy’s wallflower sister.

The longer Logan’s seductive charade goes on, however, the more he starts to see through Pepper’s drab exterior to the true beauty beneath. Despite all his training, Logan can’t stop himself from falling for Pepper.  But to warn her now will cost him any chance of trapping her brother and bringing his friend’s killer to justice. Like it or not, Logan’s going to see this masquerade through to the end, even if it costs him what he now values most—Pepper.

But Pepper Yates is no one’s fool. She and her brother have managed to survive on the run by trusting no one, especially a flirtatious neighbor with romantic intentions. Despite her undeniable attraction to Logan, Pepper isn’t about to risk her brother’s life by falling prey to her passions.

But no matter what she does, it may be too late. Rowdy is already caught in the killer’s crosshairs and Pepper knows it’s up to her to do whatever it takes to save him no matter who stands in her way…even Logan.

RUN THE RISK

Lori Foster

HQN Books; October 2012

384 pages; $7.99 U.S./$9.99 CAN.

ISBN-13: 978-0-373-77695-5

www.LoriFoster.com

Lori Foster

Since first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a Waldenbooks, Borders, USA TODAY, Publishers Weeklyand New York Times bestselling author.

Lori believes it’s important to give back to the community as much as possible, so she routinely arranges events among authors and readers to gather donations for various organizations.

What I thought: I have read other books from Lori Foster and enjoyed them. This new title lived up to her others. It was a great adventure and action packed book from beginning to end. And as always her books are steamy and spicy.

I enjoyed Run the Risk. The story about the quiet, shy Pepper Yates turns out not to be quite what Logan Riske expected when he first started keeping tabs on her. But something draws him to her, and he just can't stay away.

Where to buy: Run the Risk by Lori Forster is available in stores everywhere.



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

Power Rangers Samurai Monster Bash DVD

Zachariah is at that age where he's really getting into superheroes and other "fighting" type characters. One of his newest finds it Power Rangers. Now I know they have been around for a while, but the Power Rangers have changed since I watched them with my sister when we were little. They are still action packed and fun for kids. That's why my son enjoys them.

The product:
Join the Power Rangers for a Halloween party so awesome that their enemies are dying to get on the ghostly guest list in the new Lionsgate Home Entertainment release of Power Rangers Monster Bash. Featuring three Halloween themed episodes from the beloved Power Rangers Samurai series, Power Rangers Monster Bash Halloween special will be available on DVD and Digital Download September 11, 2012. Join the team of Samurai Rangers at the scariest of Halloween parties where the Nighlok's and the Samurai Rangers put their differences aside to trade stories with one another about previous battles in this new production of Power Rangers Samurai, the #1 kid's action series across all television.

A fan favorite for over two decades Power Rangers Samurai combines action-filled storylines with humor and heart, while promoting strong values including teamwork, friendship and fitness. The Power Rangers Monster Bash Halloween special DVD will be available ni collectible O-card packaging for the suggested retail price of $14.98.

The action-packed series consistently ranks #1 with boys and the "Power Rangers Samurai" online game was voted 2011's "Game of the Year" by visitors to Nick.com. These DVD collections join the 100+ new Power Rangers licensees worldwide that include toys, video games, apparel, publishing, sporting goods, food, beverages and more.

Power Rangers Monster Bash Synopsis:
Halloween is every monster's favorite day of the year so the creepiest creatures from the Netherworld are just dying to get into the scariest party ever and trade war stories about their battles with the Samurai Power Rangers.

Episodes:

• "Samurai" Party Monsters"
• "Mighty Morphin Life's a Masquerade"
• "Might Morphin Trick or Treat"

DVD Special Features:

• Power Rangers Samurai Halloween PSA

What we thought: As I mentioned my son is really into Power Rangers these days. And he loves everything Halloween. So this was a great combination of the two in the Power Rangers Monster Bash DVD. He has watched this a lot leading up to Halloween, and I'm sure he'll enjoy it all year long too. For your action hero loving child, this is a great DVD to have in your collection.

Where to buy: The Power Rangers Monster Bash DVD is available in stores and online now.

*Disclaimer: I received this product to review. All opinions are my own.*

Welch's Filled Licorice

Do you like fruity snacks? Maybe your kids do. Here is a new product from Welch's that your whole family can enjoy together.

The product: When I think Welch's I think about juice. But now they have these fun, fruity snacks that you can enjoy with their classic flavors.

PHILADELPHIA, PA (April, 2012) — Frankford Candy has partnered with Welch’s to develop an innovative new entry into the rapidly growing licorice category. By adding a jelly-filling inside a juicy-flavored licorice, Frankford has created a new licorice experience with the introduction of Welch’s ® Filled Licorice!  Product, now shipping, is targeting all grocery, convenience and non-food retailers in America.

“We at Frankford Candy are tremendously excited about the debut of Welch’s Filled Licorice,” says Kurt Dungan, VP of Marketing for Frankford Candy, makers of Welch’s Filled Licorice.  “The licorice category doesn’t need just another fruit flavored licorice.  Our goal withWelch’s was to create a unique, great-tasting product that leverages Welch’s brand strength with consumers.  By developing Welch’s Filled Licorice, we’ve combined the bold, fruit flavors you’d expect from Welch’s with a soft, smooth licorice texture that the whole family will enjoy.”
Welch’s Filled Licorice combines a soft licorice outside with a flavorful filling inside.  The unique jelly filling is made with real fruit juice and fruit pectin to deliver real fruit flavors. This new one-of-a-kind licorice treat is a blend of soft and chewy textures with a bold, real fruit filling. 
“We’re proud of what Welch’s and Frankford Candy have accomplished together,” says Lino Marrero, Business Development Manager atWelch’s.  “This is a fun innovation for the category that appeals to a broad audience.  Kids will love the soft, easy to chew texture and the fun jelly filling while adults will appreciate the bolder, real fruit flavors.”
 Welch’s Filled Licorice is available in Concord Grape and Strawberry flavors.  It is offered in 1.75 oz (SRP $1.09) and 3.5oz (SRP $1.59).Welch’s® Filled Licorice are distributed by Frankford Candy LLC ®.

About Welch’sHeadquartered in Concord, Massachusetts, Welch’s is the processing and marketing subsidiary of the National Grape Cooperative.Welch’s is owned by 1,150 family-farmers across America and in Ontario, Canada, who make up this cooperative and who grow the delicious and inherently healthy Concord grape, used in Welch’s juices and many other grape-based products. Welch’s products are sold throughout the United States and in approximately 50 countries around the globe.
 About Frankford CandyFrankford Candy was founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1947 as a manufacturer of seasonal chocolate products. In 1994 Frankford Candy began expanding its brand portfolio through licensing partnerships, expanding beyond chocolate into a broad range of everyday and seasonal confections.

Today, Frankford Candy a leading supplier of licensed brand confections.  Frankford manufactures chocolate products in its modern, 500,000 square foot facility in Philadelphia, PA and partners with other high quality candy suppliers from all over the world.

What we thought: We really liked these filled licorice sticks. They are chewy and good. The flavors are good ones that we all enjoyed. It's a great snack to have with popcorn while watching movies too.

Where to buy: Welch's Filled Licorice is available in stores everywhere and online.

How to connect: You can learn about this product and more at Welch's website.


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

Alison Faith Levy "World of Wonder" Children's CD

Children's music today is a world all it's own. I'm amazed at how many artist really get kids and create great music just for them. One of these wonderful musicians is Alison Faith Levy with her new CD "World of Wonder".

The product:

ALISON FAITH LEVY’S

WORLD OF WONDER

"SIPPY ALISON" RELEASES SOLO ALBUM!

 “World of Wonder is kid-friendly rock by grown up professionals who know how to write, sing and play … ‘Like A Spinning Top’ feels, to my ears, like the Patti Smith Group covering Gerry & The Pacemakers. Instantly, I was singing along and clapping my hands.”  – Paul Myers (author of A Wizard, A True Star: Todd Rundgren in the Studio)

“Meet the Sippy Cups – a rock band for kids that’s like nothing you’ve ever heard.” –Billy Heller, New York Post  

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (April 6, 2012) – Alison Faith Levy, formerly “Sippy Alison” of legendary kindie trailblazersThe Sippy Cups and the songwriter behind such Sippy hits as “Magic Toast,” “The Jellyfish,” “Move Your Pants” and “One Day Soon,” returns to making music for kids with a stunning solo album, World of Wonder.

After spending five years crisscrossing the country with the psychedelic rock n' roll circus for kids that was The Sippy Cups, performing in such venues such as Symphony Space in NYC, Lollapalooza, House of Blues, Central Park Summerstage, and Austin City Limits, Alison Faith Levy took abreak from performing for children and found success with her "grown-up" Americana band, McCabe & Mrs. Miller, with songwriting partner Victor Krummenacher (of Camper Van Beethoven). They performed with the likes of Rosanne Cash, Cracker, and Built to Spill and released an acclaimed album Time for Leaving.

Alison missed performing for children, however, and decided to start a music time at a local bookstore. She began writing new songs for the kids, and word spread quickly. Within a few months the place was packed to the rafters every week, and Alison soon began booking performances at libraries, museums, music venues and outdoor festivals. She was tapped by a local club to produce a monthly music series for families, and her Starry Day Matinee Series in Berkeley, CA grew to be a runaway success, with full houses of jumping, dancing kids andhappy moms and dads.

For World of Wonder, Alison enlisted the help of her friend, songwriter and bandleader of lush indie popsters The Orange Peels — producer Allen Clapp. Together they took a new batch of songs and, with a goal of crafting their perfect pop kids’ music album, played practically every instrument themselves and mined their collective encyclopedic knowledge of pop music for production touchstones. Carole King, Elton John, Phil Spector, Godspell, The Zombies, The Byrds, Dusty Springfield, Pentangle, The Flaming Lips and XTC are just some of the influences that can be heard wafting through World of Wonder. Alison’s ten-year-old son, Henry, a musician in his own right, plays drums and sings on a couple of songs on the album, as well.

Enthuses noted music journalist Paul Myers, “While she regularly appears with kid-rockers The Sippy Cups, I only knew singer keyboardist Alison Faith Levy from her work in more alt-rock settings such as The Loud Family (with Scott Miller) and McCabe & Mrs. Miller (with Camper Van Beethoven's Victor Krummenacher), but in this milieu, we really get to hear her voice, which recalls the great girl group singers like Ronnie Spector. It doesn't hurt that California sunshine pop mastermind Allen Clapp (The Orange Peels) bathes the whole thing in Spectorian reverb. So it's a natural and fitting moment when Levy re-imagines "Itsy Bitsy Spider" in a Wall of San Francisco Sound. By the final strains of "One More Cupcake", you're in full agreement with the character in the song who begs mommy on her ‘bended band-aid knees’ for just five more minutes of fun. A true world of wonder which promises more wonders to come.”

# # #

CD Details: World of Wonder

For ages 5 and under, and parents, too!

Label: Mystery Lawn Music

Release Date:  April 1, 2012

SRP: $12.97  ($9.99 digital download)

Run time:  33 minutes

What we thought: We enjoy all kinds of music. My family is pretty eclectic with music selection. (Believe me, you'd know really quickly by listening to my husband's iPod.) My son already has quite a music collection. This CD has already made the nightly rotation. Basically, that's a big two thumbs up from him for this CD.

Where to buy: The Alison Faith Levy "World of Wonder" CD is available from several online stores, like Amazon.

How to connect: You can learn more about Alison Faith Levy on her website. And she can be contacted on Facebook and Twitter too.


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

LapFit Makes Travel Easier with Kids #Giveaway

Do your kids have a hard time keeping occupied in the car? Maybe they just don't have the space they need to read a book, eat a snack or color a picture. Here is a product that will help solve all those problems. It makes kids happier with a useable space right on their laps. And the design is practical and well made, which makes parents happy too. If you haven't seen or heard of LapFit before now, you need to check them out right away.

The product: LapFit was started by a dad who wanted a solution for his busy family. They were always on the run and it's hard to deal with eating, working and playing in the car. After looking around and seeing nothing that fit their needs, they started designing their own solution. Along came LapFit. They launched their new product, LapFit, at the toy fair in New York in February and have had quick success. 

LapFit is designed to meet families needs. It's a great product for busy families who are always on the go. It gives your child a flat surface to use in the car for playing or working on homework. And eating is much easier with this. Just try it yourself and see what you've been missing. It's perfect for kids from 3 to 15.

What we thought: I get a lot of review products for my son to try out. He was really excited when we received this one. I couldn't wait to try it. We've been using it for a few months in our car. It's been great for longer trips especially. Zachariah loves to read magazines for kids, books and more. He also likes to do puzzles and workbooks. This gives him a nice area right on his lap to do these things.

We don't eat in the car very often, but I do really like the inside of the LapFit with the eating areas. There are little molded spots for food, drinks and sauces that your children can easily use. Plus it makes eating in the car a lot less messy. It's all on the tray and on their lap. There is even a cut out for a larger drink cup that I think is ideal.

I am very impressed with the LapFit. I think it's a great fit for all families. And it would be a great Christmas gift for your children, nieces and nephews, grandchildren, friends or anyone else you're buying for.

Where to buy: You can purchase the LapFit from their website. It is also available on Amazon.com, Learning Express Toys and Parent-Teacher Store USA, plus more retailers coming soon.

How to connect: Learn more about LapFit on their website. You can also catch them on Facebook and Twitter.

Prize: The great people at LapFit are going to give away 3 Lapfits to my readers. You get to choose the size and color you would like.

Giveaway: This giveaway is open until 10/30/12 at 12:01am EST. This is open to US residents only. Please enter in the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Mad Monster Party Blu-ray Combo Pack

It's time to party for Halloween...the old school way. A little blast from the past has arrived on Blu-ray and DVD. Mad Monster Party comes to us from the same people who made the classic "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer". Your whole family will get in on this fun!

The product:
What better way to get in the Halloween spirit than by celebrating with a monster party? Lionsgate Home Entertainment makes Mad Monster Party available for the first time in High Definition with the release of the Blu-ray Combo Pack (Blu-ray + DVD) as well as HD Digital Download and On Demand arriving just in time for the spookiest holiday of the year as well as the theatrical release of the similarly themed Hotel Transylvania. From the team who created the stop-motion and animated holiday classics "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" and "Frosty the Snowman," Mad Monster Party stars the voice talents of Boris Karloff (Frankenstein) and Phyllis Diller (Eight on the Lam). The Blu-ray Combo Pack bonus materials in:lude a "making of" featurette, plus two featurettes that look at the animation and the music of the film, as well as two bonus sing-along tracks. The Mad Monster Party Blu-ray Combo Pack arrives on September 4th for the suggested retail price of $14.99.

Baron Von Frankenstein (voice of Boris Karloff) has decided to retire as the head of the Worldwide Organization of Monsters. But first, he must inform the other monsters about his plans. How to deliver the news? How else - through a Mad Monster Party! Von Frankenstein's guests include a who's who of Halloween favorites, including the Werewolf, Dracula, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, the Mummy, the Invisible Man and more. But who among them is fit to be the new head of the monsters?

Blu-ray & DVD Combo Pack Special Features:

• "Mad Monster Party: Making of a Cult Classic" featurette
• "Groovy Ghouls: The Music of Mad Monster Party" featurette
• "It's Shear Animagic! Secrets of Stop-Motion Animation" featurette
• Two Bonus sing-along tracks for kids of all ages
• Trailer

Cast:

Boris Karloff       Frankenstein, Thriller, Bride of Frankenstein, The Mummy

Ethel Ennis           Feature film debut

Gale Garnett        My Big Fat Greek Wedding, Overnight

Allen Swift           TV's "Diver Dan," TV's "The Beagles"

And Phyllis Diller  A Bug's Life, TV's "Family Guy," TV's "The Phyllis Diller Show"

What we thought: Wow, this was a fun video. It's an oldie, but goodie. I had never seen or heard of it before. My son and I both enjoyed watching it together. There is something about these old animated movies that is fun and nothing like things we have now. They have more character to them or something. I think this is a great Halloween cartoon that you and your whole family will enjoy together.

Where to buy: You can get Mad Monster Party Blu-ray Combo Pack in stores and online now.



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

Chicken Soup for the Soul NEW Books

The Chicken Soup for the Soul series of books is definitely uplifting and encouraging. These books contain stories told by real people. Sometimes they are funny. Sometimes they are sad. But either way, they are definitely something that we can relate with in our lives.

The product: Here are some of the newest Chicken Soup books that I've been reading.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Say Goodbye to Back Pain! The stories in the pages of this book discuss back problems and possible solutions to help relieve pain for your aching back. From seeking medical helping to simple preventative exercises, if you suffer from back pain this book is for you. Not only stories this time, but there is medical information that will help you fight to be free of back pain.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Married Life! One of the best keys to marriage is laughter. In this book you'll find humorous stories and entertaining bits about marriage. If you're married, or ever have been, you know that there are ups and downs. But marriage is about learning about each other and loving each other through flaws and silly moments in life. It's good to laugh together.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Boost Your Brain Power! It's never too late to energize your brain. Learn how to improve memory and stimulate your brain with different activities. Learn more about keeping your brain healthy and see how other people have through their own stories.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Hope & Healing for Your Breast Cancer Journey With October being breast cancer awareness month, we've heard many stories of people and their battle and survival of breast cancer. This book was made to help these people through their journey with tips and advice about navigating your health with doctors and support from friends and family.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Messages from Heaven 101 Miraculous Stories of Signs from Beyond, Amazing Connections, and Love that Doesn't Die Here are stories from people who believe they have heard from or seen loved ones who have passed away. Guardian angels watch out for us, and you'll hear several accounts of people knowing they are protecting them.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Here Comes the Bride 101 Stories of Love, Laughter, and Family It's always fun hearing about brides as they prepare for their weddings and enter marriage. This book contains stories of proposals, wedding planning, family mishaps and more. Weddings are fun, and they help set the stage for a couples' married life.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Say Goodbye to Stress Manage Your Problems, Big and Small, Every Day Stress is a normal part of life. We all deal with it. But it's how we deal with it that matters. Learn to deal with stress from Dr. Jeff Brown of Harvard Medical School. Plus read stories from people who have overcome stress in their own lives.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Stay at Home Moms 101 Inspirational Stories for Mothers about Hard Work and Happy Families Being a stay at home mom is not easy. Some people may see it as glamorous, but in my experience there isn't much glamorous about it. However, knowing that you're caring for your family in such an important way makes it all so rewarding. Hear stories from real stay at home moms who have made tough choices to be able to stay at home and so much more.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Family Caregivers 101 Stories of Love, Sacrifice and Bonding Are you taking care of a family member? Or maybe you are using a care facility for your loved one. These stories show the lives of other people who are family caregivers. Hear their stories about the difficulties and joys involved.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Say Hello to a Better Body Weight Loss and Fitness for Women Over 50 Being over 50 doesn't mean that you don't have to worry about your body. It's still important to have fitness goals and enjoy being active. There are stories from women just like you who have lost weight and gotten fit. And Dr. Suzanne Koven will give you tips and medical explanations to help you in your journey to stay fit, healthy and happy.


What I thought: Some of these books are relevant to me and I enjoy reading. Others are meant for other specific points in life that I am not in. But most of these books apply to at least one person I know in my life. All of these Chicken Soup for the Soul books are great for gifts. I plan to use the wedding one as part of a wedding gift coming up. And others are just good to give in times of trouble or changes in life. You don't have to worry about sitting and ready the book cover to cover, so it's easy to read the little stories anytime.

Where to buy: You can find these Chicken Soup for the Soul books and more online and in stores everywhere.


*Disclaimer: I received these products for review. All opinions are my own.*

Big G Monster Cereals at Target #Giveaway (CLOSED)

This giveaway is now closed. Congrats to the winner listed below!

Halloween is just around the corner. That means pumpkins, jack-o-lanterns, spiders, monsters and more are making an appearance. Just in time for this are the Big G Monster Cereals. They are making a limited-time showing only in your local Target stores. Right now you can find Count Chocula, Boo Berry and Franken Berry. These cereals have been a Halloween tradition that families love for more than 40 years.

The product: Make this Halloween spooktacular for your family with the monster-themed cereals. There are 3 varieties including Count Chocula, Boo Berry and Franken Berry. These cereals combine chocolate, blueberry and strawberry flavored cereal with colorful marshmallow shapes that both kids and adults enjoy. And they are available only in Target for the Halloween season. Each serving of the monster-themed cereal has no cholesterol or saturated fat and provide a good source of whole grain, calcium, and nine essential vitamins and minerals.

What we thought: My whole family has enjoyed eating these cereals. They have not lasted very long in our house. My son has seen them before, and always wanted to try them, but it's not a type of cereal that I will typically buy. For a once in a while treat it was fun. Of course my husband and I both have had these cereals when we were kids and remember getting them with our parents. Fun memories. We enjoyed the different varieties and flavors of all of them. A fun Halloween treat for everyone!

Where to buy: The Big G Monster Cereals are available in Target stores while supplies last and only for a limited time.

How to connect: Learn more about the Big G Monster Cereals and other fun Halloween products at Grocery Savvy. You can find General Mills & Target on Twitter. And Target is on Facebook too.

Prize: You can receive the same Big G Monster Cereals pack that I did, including one of each of the 3 monster cereals and a $20 Target gift card.

Giveaway: This giveaway is open until 12:01am EST on 10/16/12. It is open to US residents only. Please enter in the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Disclosure:  The product, gift pack, information, and additional sample have all been provided by General Mills and Target through MyBlogSpark.*

World of Tail Towns Friends by Ganz

Ganz, the makers of the popular Webkinz, has a new Facebook game. Tail Towns Friends is not only a fun game, but you can also find lovely hand-painted figurines of the characters in the games to collect.

The product: You get to help the fun, little animal characters in this game make their business work. By meeting new characters you can harvest crops that will help run a restaurant and more.

Here is a description of the game:

Brought to you by the makers of the wildly-popular Webkinz, Ganz has created an enchanted world of mystery, rich with tales of intrigue, treachery and forbidden love just for you grown-ups! Interested? 

Combining the fun of social media gameplay with timeless charm and unparalleled beauty, Tail Towns Friends offers players drama and juicy, soap opera-inspired storylines and the photo-realistic art allows players to become landscape artists to create the home and garden of their dreams.  

Here is what you can enjoy while playing:  

·         Players help friends and supply city businesses amidst unfolding tales of soapy drama

·         The ability to create the ultimate landscaped country getaway 

·         Intertwining storylines, featuring cinematics and voice-acting 

·         The ability to create the ultimate landscaped country getaway  

·         Intertwining storylines, featuring cinematics and voice-acting  

Tail Towns Friends also delivers a total gaming experience with custom-designed collectible fully hand-painted beautifully crafted figurines, bridging the real world with the virtual one.
Register Tail Towns Friends figurine to unlock the character’s exclusive storyline and “Secret Diary Goals,” which gives players insight into his/her life. Each figurine rewards users with an exclusive specialty virtual item as well. Registering other collectible figures’ secret codes unlocks even more Secret Diary Goals and exclusive items. The figurines are not only a great addition to the game, but also stand alone as a wonderful addition to any collector’s shelves.

What I thought: I received a cute bunny figurine that goes along with this game. I haven't played Tail Towns Friends much yet. I just started it on Facebook. So far, it's pretty fun. There are little, easy challenges like doing things on a "farm", harvesting apples, planting new trees, etc. There is a story that follows along the whole game. You are talking to several characters and they lead you to others for new tasks. It reminds me a little of the game Alice Greenthumbs or similar ones if you've played those. This one seems to be more involved with the story.

I would definitely say this is a game for adults/older kids. You have to be able to follow the dialog to figure what to do next and what is going on. It's not something my son could play. The figurine is cute. If you're into collecting knick knacks like that, they would be cute if you had several together. I don't think mine is something that I'll really use, but I don't have little knick knacks like that around my house. However, the character figurines come with a code that you can use in the game, so it makes it more fun to collect and get new codes.

Overall...it's a fun new game.

Where to buy: The game is available for free on Facebook. You can find the figurines in stores and online.



How to Connect: Go visit Tail Towns Friends on Facebook now.


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

WholesaleCostumeClub

Halloween is such a fun time for kids. I think a big part of that is deciding what to dress up as. My son has been over the years: a mouse, giraffe, royal knight, Snoopy, Captain America, and this year...Wolverine. It's fun to watch the changes in what he chooses. Lately he's been really into superheroes, so this made sense to me. Although I didn't realize he was really into Wolverine that much, and I suspect he mostly chose him for the "claws".

The product: This year we got to choose a costume from the website WholesaleCostumeClub. They have a big selection of boys and kids Halloween costumes. Some things we looked at were Superheros, Star Wars, cartoon characters, and so much more. It was hard to narrow it down. But Zachariah finally settled on Wolverine. It came with the full bodysuit (including padded "muscles"), mask, belt clip (velcro) and the "claw" hand covers. That last one might have been the best part for Zachariah. He only wished they were retractable. Ha!

What we thought: We got this costume in size medium for boys. It is supposed to fit most kids size 7-8. In clothes, Zachariah is wearing boys' sizes 6-7. This costume fit perfectly. I would recommend going up 1 size from their clothing. I don't think it will fit him next year.

The costume is pretty sturdy and easy to put on. Zachariah slips into and out of it easily. The mask didn't want to stay put, so most of the time he can't see out of both eyes at once. He could push it up a bit and not use the eye holes though.

We have noticed that after putting this on and off so many times some of the threads are coming loose. This happens at the shoulder seems and where the velcro is sewed into the costume and mask. It wasn't major or really noticeable, but if this is getting used for playtime a lot it might start to unravel.

Overall we like the costume, and Zachariah is happy to have something fun for Halloween events and trick-or-treating.

Where to buy: You can find this costume and others from www.wholesalecostumeclub.com.



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

Tom and Jerry: Around the World DVD

Old cartoons with a modern makeover. Do you like it or not? I generally prefer the old classics to the newer versions, but the new ones aren't too bad. At least I know it's something fun that my son can watch. The new  Tom and Jerry cartoons are one of our favorites. We can both watch it and enjoy it together.

The product: Tom & Jerry sure have been around a while. Not only do I remember the old cartoons, but Matt's dad gave Zachariah an old Tom & Jerry book that he had from his childhood. We love it. It's fun to have a multi-generational connection to a great cartoon. And here is one of the latest DVDs from Tom & Jerry...that silly cat and mouse are still at it.

IT’S INTERNATIONAL CAT AND MOUSE MAYHEM

WITH WARNER HOME VIDEO’S DVD RELEASE OF

TOM & JERRY: AROUND THE WORLD

LANDING IN STORES

MAY 8, 2012

Release is Available on DVD with UltraViolet™ Digital Copy

DVD Will Feature 22 Rip-Roaring Cartoons for Over Two-Hours of

Tom & Jerry Fun!

BURBANK, CA (February 15, 2012) – Get set for an unforgettable journey with everyone’s favorite cat and mouse duo in Tom & Jerry: Around the World, available from Warner Home Video (WHV) May 8, 2012.  This hilarious, new animated title features 22 action-packed cartoons featuring the tussling twosome in some of their best adventures from around the globe.  Naples, Spain, Australia, New York andHollywood are some of the memorable destinations that await viewers on this exciting trip. Tom & Jerry: Around the World will retail for $19.97 SRP.

Pack your suitcases and renew those passports! Tom & Jerry: Around the World is your first-class ticket to an entertaining, globe-trekking adventure. An exciting voyage with the popular cat and mouse duo awaits in this 22-cartoon collection consisting of classic theatrical shorts and episodes from Tom & Jerry Tales.

It’s bon voyage for Tom and Jerry as they duke it out as competing street performers in the Big Apple in Way-Off Broadway. Tomchases Jerry through the streets of Naples in Neapolitan Mouse. In Flamenco Fiasco, the dueling duo finds itself in Spain whereTom shows off his fancy footwork as he engages in a very competitive Flamenco dance competition. It’s a trip Down Under inKangadoofus where Jerry takes refuge with a kangaroo mother and her joeys in an effort to ditch Tom.  In Freaky Tiki, it’s “Aloha” for Tom and Jerry as they relax on a Hawaiian beach and find themselves entering an active volcano where they encounter Pele, the goddess of flames. Next it’s off to Tinseltown where Tom conducts a symphony orchestra in Tom & Jerry in the Hollywood Bowl. These and several other captivating adventures are featured on this must-own release.

“It’s a lot of fun to see these two iconic characters out of their typical environment and in new and exciting settings. What is equally exciting is that you get over two hours of international high-jinks and an Ultraviolet digital copy of the whole release” said Mary Ellen Thomas, WHV Executive Marketing Director of Non-Theatrical Franchise. She added, “Tom and Jerry fans of all ages will want to add this title to their DVD libraries. It’s a collection that’s not to be missed.”

Originally created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, Tom and Jerry centers on the never-ending rivalry between Tom the cat and Jerrythe mouse. The plots of each short usually center on Tom’s attempts to capture Jerry. Jerry however, is clever and quick on his feet soTom hardly ever manages to catch him. The original series is notable for having won the Academy Award® for Best Short Subject: Cartoon seven times.***

Featured Shorts:

• Way-Off Broadway
• Martian Mice
• Medieval Menace
• Abracadumb
• The Million Dollar Cat
• Din-O-sores
• Invasion of the Body Slammers
• I Dream of Meanie
• Neapolitan Mouse
• Kitty Hawked
• Flamenco Fiasco
• You’re Lion
• Kangadoofus
• Monkey Chow
• Freaky Tiki
• Monster Con
• Royal Cat Nap
• Spaced Out Cat
• The Two Mouseketeers
• Tom and Jerry in the Hollywood Bowl
• Johann Mouse
• Treasure Map Scrap

“Academy Award®” and “Oscar®” are the registered trademarks and service marks of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts andSciences

***Academy Award® Winners

·         The Yankee Doodle Mouse – 1943 Best Short Subject: Cartoons

·         Mouse Trouble – 1944 Best Short Subject: Cartoons

·         Quiet Please! – 1945 Best Short Subject: Cartoons

·         The Cat Concerto – 1946 Best Short Subject: Cartoons

·         Little Orphan – 1948 Best Short Subject: Cartoons

·         The Two Mouseketeers – 1951 Best Short Subject: Cartoons

·         Johann Mouse – 1952 Best Short Subject: Cartoons

The Credits

About Warner Bros. Animation

Warner Bros. Animation (WBA) is one of the leading producers of animation in the entertainment industry, with an innovativeand talent-rich roster boasting some of the most accomplished writers, producers and artists working today. The studio is on the cutting edge of animation technology, and has both CG and traditionally animated projects in current production anddevelopment. In 2010, WBA unveiled three new CG cartoon shorts that feature iconic Looney Tunes characters Wile E. Coyote and Road Runner, rendered in stereoscopic 3D. The films have been released theatrically, attached to Warner Bros. Pictures releases. For television, WBA currently produces The Looney Tunes Show, Young Justice, Batman: The Braveand the Bold, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated and MAD for Cartoon Network, and will soon launch Green Lantern: The Animated Series, ThunderCats and more. WBA also creates the highly successful series of DC Universe original animated movies for DVD. Producing for multiple platforms including TV, digital and home entertainment both domestically andinternationally, WBA is highly respected for its creative and technical excellence, as well as for maintaining the Studio's rich cartoon heritage. It is also the home of the iconic animated characters from the DC Comics, Hanna-Barbera, MGM andLooney Tunes libraries. One of the most-honored animation studios in history, WBA has been honored with six Academy Awards®, 35 Emmy® Awards, the George Foster Peabody Award, an Environmental Media Award, a Parents' Choice Award, the HUMANITAS Prize, two Prism Awards and 20 Annie Awards (honoring excellence in animation).

About Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group

Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group brings together Warner Bros. Entertainment's home video, digital distribution, interactive entertainment/videogames, direct-to-DVD production, technical operations and anti-piracy businesses in order to maximize current and next-generation distribution scenarios. WBHEG is responsible for the global distribution of content through DVD, electronic sell-through and VOD, and delivery of theatrical content to wireless and online channels, and is also a significant worldwide publisher for both internal and third party videogame titles.

What I thought: This is a fun DVD that I'm happy to let my son watch. Once in a while it's something that we can sit and watch together. I don't worry about the quality of show, because I know it's a great cartoon. We really enjoyed this one.

Where to buy: You can find the Tom and Jerry: Around the World DVD in stores and online now.



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

Benziger Family Winery

I have not been to a winery before. When I think of a winery, I picture beautiful vineyards with rows and rows of big grapes growing. I see rolling hills where you can see grapes for miles each direction. I'm sure this is what I picture in my head because of romantic movies and shows like The Bachelor. It seems like a nice romantic way to spend a day with your significant other. While I know there are wineries in Ohio, I don't think they are quite as picturesque as this.

The Benziger Family Winery is very beautiful. It's just as I would image such a winery, from their pictures on their website. But the Benziger Family Winery not only prides itself in its wine, they are also proud of the way that they approach farming and growing their grapes for the best final product. They produce Sonoma biodynamic wine. Instead of chemicals to help keep the plants healthy and producing well, they rely on organic farming techniques. It's interesting to read on their site about their biodynamic ways to harvest and produce. They use flowers to attract bees that they need for the plants as one interesting way.

Knowing where the grapes come from and how they are cared for, gives you as a consumer more confidence in the final product that you are receiving. Not only do you know they take great care of their product, but you know it's a better product because of that. This is what the Benziger Family Winery is all about.