Teach Tech With Zivko The Robot: Review + Giveaway

Disclosure: I received a sample in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

My ten year old son is a big fan of building things with his hands. He especially likes the Snap Circuit sets (like this one), which emphasize STEM skills. When I found out that Elenco, the company behind Snap Circuits has a new line of Teach Tech robots, I knew they would be something he would be interested in.

Elenco sent us Zivko the Robot to test and review. Zivko the Robot is a Hexiped robot that introduces kids to Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.

When we opened up the box, I have to admit that the amount of little parts seemed a little overwhelming to me. However, n was up to the challenge and went right to work. He was able to put Zivko together without my help, but it was a challenge for him (which is a good thing!) This kit is recommended for ages 10 and up, and I can see why.

Zivko operates in two modes, “follow” or “explore”. When Zivko is in follow mode, it will follow you around like a pet. When Zivko is in explore mode, it is able to explore on its own and avoid obstacles along the way. With all of its lights and sounds, Zivko does have a personality of his own. I like how the learning continues even after Zivko is fully assembled.

The Zivko The Robot is available on Amazon, along with other members of the Elenco Teach Tech Robot family. Gift-giving season is just around the corner, so keep these robots in mind for the STEM-loving kids you know!

GIVEAWAY

Enter the giveaway below to win Zivko The Robot!

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Fit FITCRUNCH Into Your Snacking Routine

Disclosure: I received this product for free from Moms Meet (momsmeet.com) to use and post my honest opinions. Compensation for this post was provided and this page may contain affiliate links.

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

If you watch the Food Network at all, you have probably seen Chef Robert Irvine on one of many shows, including Chopped and Worst Cooks in America. Well, did you know that he has also created a snack called FITCRUNCH Cheddar Cheese High Protein Puffs?

These high protein puffs are loaded with 20 grams of protein, which is 40% of the recommended daily value. They also contain only 2 g of Total Carbohydrates. The ingredients include milk protein isolate, sunflower oil, whey solids and cheddar cheese.

These FITCRUNCH puffs look similar to other cheese puffs that you may find at the store. However, they are made with actual milk and cheese, and no artificial colors. Both my kids and I loved them at first bite! They are cheesy, light and crispy, and are great to snack on straight from the bag. Other suggested uses are to add them in salads, soups, tacos, wraps, etc.

Save $5 when you purchase FITCRUNCH Cheddar Cheese High Protein Puffs on Amazon with the promo code 50FF4FITMOM. Offer ends Novemer 14, 2019.

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Kawaii in a Box: Yume Twins Review

Disclosure: I received a sample in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

This post contains affiliate links. I will receive a small commission for purchases made through these links.

Yume Twins is a subscription box dedicated to Japanese cuteness. I received the August 2019 box, and the theme was “Totoro Picnic”. Totoro is a popular Japanese anime character created by Hayao Miyazaki. It has been a while since I watched “My Neighbor Totoro”, but the character has become an icon.

I was quite impressed with the contents of the box:

  • My Neighbor Totoro Lunch Box Set (comes with two lunch boxes!)
  • My Neighbor Totoro Cup
  • My Neighbor Totoro Mini Towel Set
  • My Neighbor Totoro Bamboo Chopsticks
  • My Neighbor Totoro Picnic Sheet

I like how all of these items are practical and cute at the same time.

I am always on the lookout for cute food containers, and these Totoro boxes are a great size to take on the go. The Totoro chopsticks are also fun. k can’t wait to bring them to school for her lunch!

The Yume Twins subscription box would make a wonderful gift for anyone who appreciates everything kawaii!

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You Will Crave The Daily Crave Snacks

Disclosure: I received samples in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

One of my favorite booths at Expo West was the one for The Daily Crave. I had never heard of this company before, but the newspaper-like packaging caught my eye. Once I tried these plant-based snacks, I understood why the company is called “The Daily Crave”!

The Daily Crave has an impressive line-up of products. I was so excited to receive a variety pack that included:

  • Himalayan Pink Salt Lentil Chips
  • Aged White Cheddar Lentil Chips
  • Organic Veggie Straws
  • Spicy Sriracha Veggie Straws
  • Spicy Thai Chili Quinoa Chips
  • Himalayan Pink Salt Quinoa Chips
  • Barbecue Veggie Chips
  • Veggie Chips

I really like how these light and crunchy snacks contain plant protein and fiber. I am glad to find snacks with natural ingredients that my whole family actually enjoys eating!

n’s 5th grade teacher allows them to eat snacks in class, but only if they are “better-for-you” and not junk food. She specifically allows the kids to eat veggie straws, since that is her favorite snack! I think we will have to gift her a bag of The Daily Crave Veggie Straws so she can try them out!

Go here to see if The Daily Crave snacks are carried at a store near you. They are also available on Amazon.

GIVEAWAY

Thank you to The Daily Crave for offering my readers a chance to win a case of The Daily Crave snacks!

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Take Back Your Time Book Review

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

The subtitle of Take Back Your Time, by Morgan Tyree, is what piqued my interest in this book: Identify Your Priorities, Decrease Stress, and Increase Productivity. Yes, yes, and yes! Time is often talked about as the most valuable commodity in life. Everyone is given 24 hours a day, but what we do with those 24 hours can vary greatly. With a God-centered focus, Tyree offers practical advice about how to make the most of each day by studying your own personality, season of life, priorities and capacities.

The main lesson I learned from this book is that we should look at our time as being in one of three zones.

  • Green Time Zone: Focus Time (check the box, get it done)
  • Yellow Time Zone: Flex Time (work on several simple tasks at once)
  • Red Time Zone: Fill Time (personal restoration time)

Frustration can set in when these these three zones are out of balance. I found Tyree’s advice regarding time management to be pragmatic and helpful. With the start of the new school year, a new soccer and basketball season, scouts, etc., it feels like our schedules become so busy. If you are facing a similarly busy season of life, Take Back Your Time may help you do just that.

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Once Again Almond Amore Energy Bites

I received this product for free from Moms Meet (momsmeet.com) to use and post my honest opinions. Compensation for this post was provided and this page may contain affiliate links.

Once Again Organic Amoré Almond Spread With Milk Chocolate is a smart product to have on hand for when you need a chocolate fix. The ingredient list is simple: organic cane sugar, organic roasted peeled almond paste, organic skim milk powder, organic low fat cocoa powder, organic sunflower oil. I also like that this spread is organic, fair trade, and gluten-free. The Once Again Amore Spreads, which also comes in hazelnut, can be used in many ways. For example, they make a tasty dip for fruit, or can be used as a topping for ice cream, waffles, or crepes.

Here is a recipe I adapted to make “energy bites” using the Once Again Amore Almond Spread With Milk Chocolate:

Once Again Almond Amore Energy Bites

3/4 c. rolled oats

1/4 c. unsweetened coconut flakes

2 T. ground flax seed

1/2 c. Once Again Amore Almond Spread With Milk Chocolate

(Makes about 9 Bites)

Stir the dry ingredients (rolled oats, coconut flakes, flax seed) together in a bowl.

Stir in the Once Again Amore Almond Spread With Milk Chocolate.

Form into golf ball sized balls and store in the refrigerator.

Once Again makes several other delicious organic products, including peanut butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, almond butter and tahini. Click here to find Once Again products at a store near you.

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He Numbered The Pores On My Face

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

It has been a while since a book made me laugh out loud. And I don’t mean a little chuckle to myself. I mean an audible laugh that would make people turn their heads if I was reading it in a public place. He Numbered The Pores On My Face, by Scarlet Hiltibidal is that book. I originally wanted to review this book so that my daughter could read it. However, I found it to be an engaging and inspirational read with takeaways for myself as a grown woman.

The book is divided into three sections:

  • Section 1: The Gospel Redefines Who You Were
  • Section 2: The Gospel Redefines Who You Are
  • Section 3: The Gospel Tells You Who You’ll Be

The teenage years are a prime time for people to be in search of their identities. Each section of this book is filled with examples from the Bible and the author’s own life. These stories illustrate why it is important to find our identities in the One who created us instead of trying to measure up to worldly standards. Hiltibidal is in her 30’s, but she recalls events from her teenage years with so much detail, it was as if they happened yesterday. He Numbered The Pores On My Face is a great read for teen girls and it can also spark some meaningful conversations between moms and daughters.

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Meet Chester: Our New Travel Companion

Disclosure: I received a sample in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

If you are in search of luggage that is both stylish and functional, consider Chester. Our family has some big travel plans for next year, and this Chester Minima suitcase is sure to become our essential travel companion.

The Chester Minima suitcase has TSA and IATA approved exterior dimensions (21.5” x 13.5” x 8.5”) that meet domestic and international airline requirements. I like that it is small enough to be used as a carry-on since I hate to pay the extra check-in fees that airlines charge.

In the past, I always gravitated toward soft-sided suitcases because I thought they were lighter than hard-sided suitcases. However, the Chester’s exterior is made of 100% polycarbonate which is unbreakable and lightweight. And since it is hard-sided, the Chester cannot be overstuffed to the point of no longer meeting the airline carry-on requirements.

The built-in combination lock is easy to set and provides an extra level of security during your travels.

Despite its small exterior, the Chester’s interior compartments provide plenty of well-thought out space for clothing and toiletries. I like how all of the compartments have zippers. This helps the contents stay neat and organized instead of turning into a jumbled mess. On the left, there are three pockets that can store both small and large belongings.

On the right, there is also a handy small, zippered water-resistant pouch that contains a removable laundry bag to store dirty clothes.

This short video shows the Chester’s four smooth-rolling wheels and retractable handle. These features would allow the Chester to easily navigate narrow passages, ramps, sharp turns, and anything else that you may encounter during your travels. I have found that upgrading to a four-wheel suitcase is a game-changer. We still have some old two-wheel suitcases, and I am amazed at what a difference two extra wheels makes when trying to navigate through airports, sidewalks, public transportation, etc.

If you are in search of stylish and high-quality suitcase, be sure to look at what Chester has to offer. The Chester Minima comes in seven modern colors, and is available on their company website and on Amazon.

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An Inspirational Movie: Overcomer + Giveaway

Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):  Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway.  Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Movies can be a powerful tool to deliver important messages to large audiences. Therefore, I think it is exciting that faith-based movies are becoming more widely distributed and promoted. The Kendrick Brothers are largely responsible for this expansion. They wrote, directed and produced several recent faith-based movies, including War Room, Courageous, Fireproof and Facing the Giants. On August 23, a new Kendrick Brothers movie, Overcomer, will be in theaters throughout the United States.

SYNOPSIS

Life changes overnight for coach John Harrison when his high school basketball team’s state championship dreams are crushed under the weight of unexpected news. When the largest manufacturing plant in town suddenly shuts down and hundreds of families begin moving away, John must come to grips with the challenges facing his family and his team. Urged by the school’s principal to fill-in and coach a sport he doesn’t know or like, John is frustrated and questioning his worth … until he crosses paths with a student struggling with her own journey.

The inspiring family film stars Alex Kendrick, Priscilla Shirer, Shari Rigby, Cameron Arnett, and introduces Aryn Wright-Thompson. Opening nationwide on August 23, OVERCOMER dares to leave you filled with hope, inspired to dream, and asks the question: what do you allow to define you?

Overcomer is a movie that is designed to spark meaningful conversation between kids and their parents. The Overcomer website even has resources to facilitate such conversations, including a Parent Primer, Family Guide and Team Guide for coaches and small group leaders. Go here to see when and where Overcomer is playing near you.

Giveaway

Enter to win two Fandango codes to see Overcomer!

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller /FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days on the same blog, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.  No Canadian winners please, Fandango does not reach to our Canadian friends.

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Teen To Teen 2019-2020 Academic Planner Review

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

We made it through our first week of school! As my kids grow older, they have more and more activities and deadlines to keep track of. Between homework, quizzes, tests, practices, games, parties and meetings, there is a lot to remember! The Teen To Teen Academic Planner helps teens with their time management and organization. This hardbound academic planner covers August 2019-July 2020. Each month has a monthly calendar as well as a weekly two-page layout with plenty of space to write. At the bottom of each weekly page, there is a space to record the week’s “Top 3”, notes, a short gratitude list. This planner is called “Teen To Teen” because there is also a short nugget of advice from other teens on each weekly page.

Time management is an important skill for teenagers to develop before they become adults. Using a planner can reduce procrastination, stress and missed deadlines. The Teen To Teen Academic Planner is sure to be a helpful tool for the student in your life.

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