I Wish I Had This Book Growing Up: The Girls’ Guide To Conquering Middle School Review

Disclosure: 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.

I am not sure who was more nervous about k starting middle school this year, k or me.  I remember middle school as being a somewhat difficult adjustment.  Grades suddenly seemed more important, there were more teachers and students to deal with, friend groups were in flux, etc.

So far, k’s transition to middle school has been pretty smooth.  However, there are new issues that she has to deal with, and I know that more will arise.  She seemed genuinely excited when I gave her a copy of this book, The Girls’ Guide to Conquering Middle School.  The authors of this book are Erica and Jonathan Catherman and they both have a lot of professional experience in coaching and mentoring kids.

The Girls’ Guide to Conquering Middle School covers topics ranging from Backpacks to Cyberbullies to Gossip to Lockers to Studying.  Each topic is only about one page long, and there are also a lot of graphics to make it fun and engaging.  I like that the book covers both serious and light-hearted topics.  I found that the advice given regarding each topic is age-appropriate and helpful.  Sometimes kids and parents alike do not feel comfortable bringing up certain topics, so this book help spark some discussions.  I certainly would have liked a book like this during my middle school years; I am glad my daughter can read and benefit from it.

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Stocking Stuffer Idea #1: IntelliDent Tooth Brush Shields Review + Giveaway

Disclosure: I received samples in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own.

Is it too early to talk about stocking stuffers?  I try to find little practical gifts to use as stocking stuffers throughout the year, so I am going to say it is not too early even though it is only October.  I hope to feature various stocking stuffer ideas in the upcoming weeks.  Today I want to share with you a new-to me-product that would be a useful and appreciated stocking stuffer: IntelliDent Toothbrush Shields.

Toothbrushes are susceptible to contamination because they are typically kept in the bathroom where there are multiple surface and airborne microbes.  Storing a toothbrush in a cup on the bathroom counter, or enclosed in a dark space like a medicine cabinet creates a perfect breeding ground for germs.  Not to gross you out too much, but toilets can cause contamination within a six-foot radius!  IntelliDent Toothbrush Shields are breathable, quick drying shields that are laboratory tested to be a 99.9% effective barrier against bacteria.

IntelliDent Toothbrush Shields are disposable, and effective for up to seven days.

We tried one out on my son’s electric toothbrush and the fit was perfect.  I could see these shields also being really helpful when packing a toothbrush for travel.  Anything that helps reduce the chance of illness is a good idea in my book!

IntelliDent also makes Mouth Guard Shields.  The idea is the same, except they are sized for dental devices or mouthguards.  They would be perfect for k’s Invisalign trays.

IntelliDent products are sold at Walgreens and CVS, so look for them on your next shopping trip.  Seriously, tuck some away for stocking stuffers!

I am also pleased to announce that I am hosting a giveaway for you to win three 10 ct. boxes of IntelliDent Toothbrush Shields:

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Lassen Volcanic National Park Part II

The next morning we did an easy hike around Manzanita Lake.

One nice thing about visiting less-popular parks is that you have the views to yourself.

Next we did the Devastated Area Interpretive Trail.  There were solar powered boxes at various stations that provided information about what we were looking at.

After our hike we drove to Summit Lake for lunch.  (We had picked up sandwiches from the camper store at Manzanita Lake in the morning).

Taking a dip.

At this point, D had a big headache.  As D likes to say, it was “no bueno”.

We set up camp at Summit Lake South and D took a short nap.

Then we drove to Cold Boiling Lake.  I have to admit, I was bit disappointed when I saw the size of this “lake”.

I would say a more appropriate name would be Cold Boiling Big Puddle!

But, it was cool to see the gas bubbles, and the whole area was quite scenic.

I did not know there was geothermal activity like this in California!  This sulphuric mudpot reminds me of Yellowstone.

We ended up buying a snack and dinner at the Kohm-Yah-Mah-Nee Visitor Center.  The selection was quite limited, and again, I must say I am disappointed with Xanterra’s food service.

This was our pulled pork sandwich.  There was actually a good amount of meat heaped onto the bun.

This was the “pizza”.  A frozen DiGiorno single that you have to heat up yourself in the microwave.  Really??  We really had no other dining options, so they have a monopoly.

We took a post-dinner hike near our campsite.

Although it might not be on the top of anyone’s National Park bucket list, we thought that Lassen Volcanic National Park is still worth a visit.

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The Forgotten Park & Post: Lassen Volcanic National Park

Poor Lassen Volcanic National Park.  It is probably the least known National Park in California.  It was also the last park that we needed to visit in order to check off all of the National Parks in California.  It is also the vacation blog post I have taken the longest to write. (I partially blame that on my shifting work schedule, but things seem to be settling down now).

During the drive from Crater Lake to Lassen, we stopped in the town of Bieber for a pit stop and lunch.

This was the bathroom situation…Bwahahaha.

The food situation was actually not bad.  This BLT salad had a lot of bacon.  And a lot of cheese, as you can see.

We checked into our Manzanita Lake campsite and quickly set up camp.

Then we headed to Manzanita Lake and decided to rent a kayak.  I am pretty sure the kayaks were meant to hold 2-3 people, but the person in charge let us all go in one together.

In retrospect, I am not sure this was the best idea as the kayak felt quite tippy with four.  I was getting a core workout trying to keep us centered.

I did not want to bring my camera, so I used my iphone.  But then I was nervous about dropping my iphone in the water, so I would not consider this a relaxing time.  Thankfully, we did not capsize!

We ended up buying paninis from the camper store for dinner.

Post-dinner s’mores.

We were thankful that the air was not as smokey as in Oregon, but there was still a haze.  To be continued…

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Visiting The Tanaka Farms x Sanrio Pumpkin Patch

Last week I took the kids to the Tanaka Farms pumpkin patch before n’s soccer practice.  I wanted to check out their Sanrio collaboration that they started last year.  They offer wagon tours and games on the weekends, but we just did the activities that are included with the $4 basic admission.

There are so many cute photo ops!

Look at n trying to smile without dropping his pumpkin!

In addition to pumpkins, there is also a petting zoo.  Our kids were never too into petting zoos, but this would be fun for kids who are.

There is a small corn maze that the kids enjoyed going through.  The corn is not too tall, so adults will not get lost!

The sunflower patch is a cute idea, but it was a little past its prime.

All of the signage is really just too cute. I was literally squealing at each new sign.

Sanrio Scarecrows = LOVE!

I could not resist the 40% off sale in the gift shop.  (Sale ends 10/12/18, so go now while you can!)

The pumpkin patch is open daily from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.  Parking is free Monday-Friday.  Reservations are required on the weekends.  Check out their website for more details.

Tanaka Farms

5380 3/4 University Dr.,

Irvine, CA 92612 

949.653.2100 

INFO@TANAKAFARMS.COM

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Easy and Festive Fall Gatherings With Tyson® Any’tizers®

This post is sponsored by Tyson Foods, Inc but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

I am so excited that fall is finally here!  One of the reasons fall is my favorite is that it signals gathering around the table with friends and family.  Between Halloween, Thanksgiving, and birthdays for both me and my husband, we have many occasions to celebrate this season.  As the weather cools down, I feel drawn to entertain indoors, in a warm and cozy environment.

Fall entertaining should not be stressful, as the focus should be on spending quality time with those you love.  Tyson® Any’tizers® Snacks are an easy option, and can be used for an appetizer, snack, or light meal.

Here I placed some Tyson® Any’tizers® Popcorn Chicken in mini muffin liners and added some fancy toothpicks to make them portable.  Having different dipping sauces allows guests to customize their flavor experience.

This is an easy recipe for Spicy, Sweet & Sour Sauce:

1 1/2 t. cornstarch

1/4 c. sugar

1/3 c. water

1/4 c. ketchup

2 T. cider vinegar

1 T. hot sauce

Combine the cornstarch and sugar in a small saucepan.  Gradually stir in water, and blend until there are no lumps.  Add ketchup, cider vinegar, and hot sauce.  Cook until thickened.

Tyson® Any’tizers®Boneless Chicken Bites come in Honey BBQ and Buffalo Style.  These flavorful bites add a nice variety and would pair well with a vegetable platter and other finger foods.

Being grateful is something that should be done year-round, but fall is a natural time to really stop and reflect upon all that you have been given.  Delicious food, conversation, and laughter are some of the things for which I am grateful.

This guy could not wait to take a bite!

It is a good idea to stock up on Tyson® Any’tizers® Snacks to make sure you have them ready in your freezer for fall entertaining.  They are available at your local Walmart, as well as other grocery stores.

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A Treat Without The Tricks: Koochikoo Lollipops Review + Giveaway

Disclosure: Samples were provided in exchange for an honest 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.

Happy October!   Since today is the first day of October, that means we have thirty days to prepare for Halloween and the trick-or-treaters that come to our door.  Well, I recently discovered a treat without the tricks: Koochikoo Lollipops!

These lollipops are the world’s first organic, no sugar added lollipop brand.  They are sweetened with organic prebiotic fiber and contain 5+ grams of fiber per lollipop.  In addition, they are gluten-free, vegan, Non-GMO and contain only 10 calories each.  Because the sweetness comes from organic tapioca fiber, you do not have to worry about any questionable artificial sweeteners.  These lollipops are also manufactured in a gluten-free, dairy-free, and peanut-free facility.

Koochikoo lollipops

We tried all of the flavors, and they are all super yummy.  They are sweet and tart, and will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Here is k enjoying a Koochikoo Lollipop as an after-school treat.

This is n enjoying one of the lollipops while doing his homework.  And yes, sometimes he does his homework on the floor!

These lollipops are such a great alternative to the sugar-laden, artificial flavored candy that is handed out to kids during this time of year.  Koochikoo Lollipops can be purchased on Amazon.  Use Amazon promo code “lollipower” for a 10% discount. (Code is good through the end of October.)

I am also excited to announce a giveaway for my readers for three of the 20 ct. canisters of Koochikoo Lollipops, (60 lollipops in all!)

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New Natural Products: #NewHopeBloggerBox

Disclosure: I received samples in exchange for an honest 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 quarterly arrival of the New Hope Blogger Box is something to which I look forward to now.  It is always filled with new and interesting products that could potentially benefit my family.  This quarter’s box was no exception.  Here are the products that were included, along with some of our thoughts regarding some of them.

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Kinderfest: A Family-Friendly Oktoberfest Celebration

Disclosure: I received free samples from Old World Village Oktoberfest in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own.

It is always fun to learn about other cultures through food, music and entertainment.  Last weekend we had the opportunity to introduce our kids to German culture by attending Kinderfest (a family-friendly Oktoberfest celebration) at Old World Huntington Beach.

This celebration takes place a small village in Huntington Beach hidden just off of the 405 freeway.

The center of the action is the Old World German Bar & Restaurant.

The oom-pah-pa band provided a lively atmosphere.

The “Chicken Dance” song prompted a lot of people onto the dance floor!

The Wiener Dog Races were fun to witness.  I had to laugh when the announcer warned contestants not to “launch” their dogs.

There were two different places inside the venue to order food.  Note the “cash only” sign.

A close-up of our food: Oktoberfest Brawurst with steamed vegetables, roast chicken with mashed potatoes, and Smoked Beer Cheese Bratwurst with sauerkraut.

The kids also split a cheeseburger.  We enjoyed both of the brats, and the sides were a nice touch.

We also strolled around the shops and admired the architecture of this small enclave.

We also stopped inside the store/bakery that is connected to the main restaurant.

The kids were excited to try a slice of Black Forest cake since they had seen it featured on MasterChef.  According to Wikipedia, it originated in Germany and is “a chocolate sponge cake with a rich cherry filling based on the German dessert Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, literally “Black Forest Cherry-torte”. Typically, Black Forest gateau consists of several layers of chocolate sponge cake sandwiched with whipped cream and cherries.”

The store had an interesting variety of products from Germany.

This was a wonderful cultural experience for our family.  Kinderfest is being held on Sundays, through October 28th, from 2 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.  Admission for adults is $7, kids 6-12 is $3, and kids under 5 are free.  See the Kinderfest website for more details.

Here is some more information from the sponsor:

Orange County’s original Oktoberfest is underway and will run from Sept. 9th – Oct. 28th No One Does Oktoberfest like Old World! Old World Huntington Beach has been hosting Orange County’s Biggest Party since 1977! That’s 41 years! This year’s Oktoberfest promises to be the best celebration yet, offering authentic German Food (voted “Best Bratwurst” in California), imported German Beers, German Bands straight from Germany, and Oktoberfest Skate Squad plus other festivities, competitions, games & more. So, come on down and experience the best Oktoberfest celebration in the World – Old World Huntington Beach.
Visit our website at http://www.oldworld.ws/ for more information about Old World. Visit http://www.oldworld.ws/oktoberfest-orange-county.html for all Oktoberfest activities and go to http://www.oldworld.ws/oktoberfest-admission-ticket.html for tickets.

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A Delivery of Cuteness: Kawaii Box + Giveaway

Disclosure: I received a free sample in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own.

As you may recall, the kids and I had so much fun reviewing the Japan Candy Box.  Therefore, when I was contacted about reviewing a Kawaii Box, I did not hesitate to say yes.  The concept is similar, but the Kawaii Box is a monthly subscription box focused on all things kawaii, or “cute”.

We received the September box to review, and the theme was “Travel With Sumikko Gurashi”.  I have been a fan of Sanrio for as long as I can remember, and this relatively newer set of characters makes me smile.  Sumikko Gurashi literally translates to “living in a corner”.  I am not exactly sure what that means, but this line is adorable!

I was thrilled that a Sumikko Gurashi notepad, plushie, and travel badge were all included in this month’s box.  I think I am going to have to fight with my daughter over these items. 🙂

Not surprisingly, my son was immediately drawn to the Happy Nikukyu Paw Gummies.  These gummies are soda flavored, which makes them unique and fun to eat.  Going along with the “cute dog” theme, is this pad of Inu Sticky Notes.

Gudetama is a Sanrio character that I have been seeing a lot of lately.  I personally do not see the appeal of a character who is a “lazy egg”, but these stickers are pretty funny.

Items featuring unicorns still seem to be quite popular.  Any unicorn fan is sure to love this Unicorn Pen With Light, Sweet Unicorn Gel Pen, and Unicorn Washi Tape.

For those us who cannot have enough decorative tape, this month’s box also included a Sparkly Deco Tape Set.

Kawaii Box offers different lengths of subscriptions at varying price points ($17.90-$19.90/month) and shipping is free!  This would make a wonderful gift for anyone who would appreciate a box of cuteness delivered to their doorstep every month.

Enter today for a chance to win a Kawaii Box for yourself!
LimByLim Kawaii Box Giveaway

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