Bribing The Kids

May 21, 2013 · by · 4 Comments

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Are you a briber?  (Is that even a word?)  I guess it is now!  How many of you bribe your kids to do their reading or homework, so they can play outside with their friends, watch TV or play on an iPod?  I am raising my hand slowly because I do it all the time.  You can call it negotiating, bribing or just plain parenting but we all do it.

This weekend we had the perfect example of this.  Emily has been wanting the 2nd season of her favorite tv show since she began watching the 3rd season.  She paid for the first season but didn’t have the money to purchase the 2nd.  Scott told her if she read two of the books (the tv show is based on a book series) he would buy it for her.  Friday, she came home from school and started reading.  She read ALL weekend and by Sunday morning she had earned her season.

Brad is our gamer boy!  He loves his XBOX but his newest game is online where he can play along with his friends.  They are skyping (at least 3-4 of them at a time) while they play Minecraft.  It cracks me up.  As much as I like him spending time with his buddies we do have limits.   At 10, he would much rather be hanging out with his buddies than doing his reading or homework.  We have to explain to earn the online time, he has to take care of his school work as a priority.

One of the other things the kids have been doing is hanging outside with their friends but they all have their iPods and play games together.  The girls like sites such as DressUp121.com while the boys are hanging out playing “more” minecraft or filming skits.  I know there is controversy on screen time but I do think these kids can take the creativity of these sites and learn skills in a fun way by creating makeovers, doing some cake decorating or brain games that makes you think.  (I even play those since my brain gets a bit fuzzy at times, especially the older I get!)

What are your thoughts about online time?  Do you have limits or do a little “bribing” so they can earn that time?  I would love to hear your thoughts.

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Treat Your Family To Ola Granola – Recipe

April 19, 2013 · by · 1 Comment

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I love products that can be used in a variety of ways.  Take granola for instance.  It makes a great breakfast, whether you have it with milk or added to your yogurt.  Granola can also be used for cooking and baking.

ola granola

I was introduced to Ola Granola a few weeks ago.  I received a bag of Ola Vanilla Almond, Cranberry Orange and No Nut Vanilla.  They are all delicious in their own way.  They also come in a resealable bag so no worrying about it going bad.  (It actually won’t last that long for that to happen!)   You can also purchase the granola in 1 oz. bags for on the go…kids snacks, pick me up while at work or just because!

I decided to create an apple crisp using the Ola Vanilla Almond.  Look how yummy it looks.

Print
Oohlaa Ola Apple Crisp

Oohlaa Ola Apple Crisp

Ingredients

  • 4-5 Apples
  • 2 Tablespoons sugar
  • 1 Teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 Cup melted butter
  • 2 Cups Ola Vanilla Almond granola

Instructions

  1. Dice apples
  2. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon,
  3. Mix together so apples are coated
  4. Melt butter and add to the Ola granola
  5. Top apples with the Ola butter mixture
  6. Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes or until apples are soft and tender
  7. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream
  8. Top with Ola Vanilla almond granola for more crunch
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http://www.tammystwocents.com/2013/04/treat-your-family-to-ola-granola-recipe/

Besides looking yummy, it tasted delicious!

Have you ever tried the Ola granola?  You can purchase online or also find at your local stores.  What recipe would you create with the Ola granola or would you just eat it out of the bag?  :)

Right now you can get FREE shipping by using this special code  TT2013 (available to my readers only).

Disclosure:  I received the Ola Granola bags for review purposes.  I was  not compensated to write a positive or favorable review.  This is  my personal opinion of the product.

Filed Under: Recipe, recipes, Reviews · Tagged: , ,

A Shade Of Vampire – Book Review

March 13, 2013 · by · 8 Comments

aSoVampire AMAZON

I don’t do many book reviews here.  It’s not that I don’t love to read, because I do.  It’s that I have a hard time finding the time.   I have a certain criteria a book must meet when it comes reviewing here on my blog.   I love an easy read, something  I can escape into and vampires seem to pull me in (blame that on the Twilight series).

When Bella Forrest, the author of A Shade Of Vampire contacted me, she sent a few chapters for me to read.  As I briefly scanned them, I thought this sounded pretty good.

I started the book last Wednesday while I was waiting for Emily at the orthodontist.  I had an hour and a half and got through the first part of the book.  Friday night, I sat down and read after everyone was in bed.  Then on Saturday evening I continued the book and it ended.   For me to finish a book in 3 sittings is amazing.  I must admit, this was a short read  but kept my interest from beginning to end.  (I am also happy that book 2 will be coming out soon so the story can continue.)

A Shade Of Vampire was the Number 1 Christmas Bestseller in Vampire Romance, Paranormal and Fantasy on Amazon.  It is classified as a Young Adult Paranormal Romance but don’t not read it if you are older than “young adult.”  I know I am much older than that and I loved it!

Here is a short description of the story…

On the evening of Sofia Claremont’s seventeenth birthday, she is sucked into a nightmare from which she cannot wake. A quiet evening walk along a beach brings her face to face with a dangerous pale creature that craves much more than her blood.

She is kidnapped to an island where the sun is eternally forbidden to shine. An island uncharted by any map and ruled by the most powerful vampire coven on the planet. She wakes here as a slave, a captive in chains.

Sofia’s life takes a thrilling and terrifying turn when she is the one selected out of hundreds of girls to join the harem of Derek Novak, the dark royal Prince.

Despite his addiction to power and obsessive thirst for her blood, Sofia soon realizes that the safest place on the island is within his quarters, and she must do all within her power to win him over if she is to survive even one more night.

Will she succeed? …or is she destined to the same fate that all other girls have met at the hands of the Novaks?

If you would like to get your hands on the book here are a few resources:

Buy A Shade of Vampire from Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Shade-Of-Vampire-Bella-Forrest/dp/1481280767 
(US Paperback)

http://www.amazon.com/A-Shade-Of-Vampire-ebook/dp/B00AOHDMFE 
(US e-book)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Shade-Of-Vampire-Bella-Forrest/dp/1481280767 
(UK Paperback)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/A-Shade-Of-Vampire-ebook/dp/B00AOHDMFE 
(UK e-book)

Disclosure:  I was sent an e-copy to review A Shade Of Vampire.  
I was not compensated to write a positive or favorable review.  
This is my personal opinion of the book.
Filed Under: Reviews · Tagged: , ,

Best Buy Has A Recycling Program!

February 22, 2013 · by · 5 Comments

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I had no idea Best Buy had a recycling program.  Let me just say how excited I was to hear this.  We have a “dinosaur” of a computer upstairs that needs to go and we weren’t sure where we should take it.  Guess where we will be going in the near future?  My husband needs to do some deleting on it and then we will take it in.

Best Buy has an entire page dedicated to the recycling program.   You can check out your state’s restrictions (from a drop down menu at the bottom of the page) to see what the limits your store may have.  The best part is this is a FREE recycling program throughout the United States and Puerto Rico.

best buy promo

Imagine how many technology gadgets we have in our home and what do we do with them?  I know many of ours are still hanging around in drawers here and there.  Best Buy understand these products have become the fastest growing waste stream on the planet and they want to be part of the solution.   Check out the products they will take in for recycling (more specific information can be found directly on Best Buys Recycling Program page.)

products to be recycled

Here is how Best Buy is being a BIG part of the solution.

  • No matter where you bought or how old it is, Best Buy will recycle it.
  • Best Buy recycles 387 pounds of electronics each minute our stores are open.
  • If you bring your electronics to Best Buy, we will responsibly and safely dispose of them.

What if you purchase one of their Energy Star certified products?  You will be able to recycle your old electronics and upgrade to a more energy efficient appliance or electronic (they will deliver the new and take away the old.)  For more information on the Energy Star certified products, you may visit:  http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Global-Promotions/ENERGY-STAR/pcmcat149900050024.c?id=pcmcat149900050024&ref=184&loc=01

Isn’t it wonderful seeing a company get involved in our future, protecting us from so much waste?  I would love to know if you have had the chance to recycle at Best Buy and your thoughts?

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Ddrops Booster – The Sunshine Vitamin In Just One Drop!

February 18, 2013 · by · 42 Comments

ddrops

Most of us in Washington find ourselves Vitamin D deficient.   Chalk it up to those gray, foggy and drizzly days we see most of  winter and spring.   It is not uncommon for us to be recommended by our doctors to take extra Vitamin D supplements.  Even my doctor has talked to me about this very topic.

Imagine if the adults are lacking, you know our children are too.  They are dependent on the sun to help them thrive and grow.  Children need vitamin D for their bones and teeth which help them absorb the important minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

Sunlight is the main source of vitamin D but we know direct exposure isn’t always best.  If you are like us in the Northwest, we don’t have the source of sun often enough.  A recent study carries some startling statistics.  9% of children and adolescents were vitamin D deficient and 60% were vitamin D insufficient.  Almost 70% are NOT getting enough vitamin D.

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I am excited to share with you the Ddrops Booster product.  600IU in one tasteless, colorless drop (also sugar-free, gluten-free and soya-free).  You can drop it directly on the tongue or add into their drink.   Best part is it can be used on children as young as 1 and as old as 70 years old!!

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I decided to try the Ddrops Booster and dropped it directly onto my tongue.  No taste whatsoever.  It now has become part of our vitamin regimen.  No one complains about taking it because it is so simple!

How would you like to try a bottle of Ddrops Booster?  I have a bottle to give away to one of my readers of Tammy’s Two Cents.

Follow the Rafflecopter entries for your chance to win.  I will close the giveaway on March 8, 2013 at 9 p.m. PST.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure:  I was sent a bottle of the Ddrops Booster for review purposes.  This has been a sponsored post, however all opinions regarding this product have been my own.

Filed Under: Archived Giveaways, Reviews · Tagged: , ,

Flatout Hungry Girl Foldit Flatbread ~ Walgreens $50 Gift Card Giveaway

February 5, 2013 · by · 307 Comments

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Did you happen to see my Flatout Hungry Girl Foldit Flatbread sandwich recipes? Here is the Grilled Chicken Spinach Ranch Foldit.

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I think the Egg Salad with Avocado Foldit Flatbread Sandwich was my favorite.  Anything with Avocado makes it better!

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I am still enjoying the Hungry Girl Foldit Flatbread I bought.  This weekend I made some chicken salad specifically for my foldit bread.  I haven’t found anything I haven’t liked on the bread.

I am excited to be hosting a Walgreens $50 Gift Card Giveaway so you can try the Flatout Hungry Girl Foldit Flatbread for yourself.  You can stock up at Walgreens!  They carry just about everything.

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Just follow the Rafflecopter directions below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I am working with TheMotherhood on behalf of Walgreens and Hungry Girl promoting the Flatout Hungry Girl Foldit flatbread. Compensation has been received as part of the campaign. All opinion on the product are completely my own.

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Crafty Bands – Great For Valentine Day Gifting!

February 4, 2013 · by · 3 Comments

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Epiphany Crafts has just introduced a new line of “design-it yourself” charm bracelets for kids called Crafty Bands.

I had one of my favorite friends, Kylie, help me review it.  She is almost 7 (recommended age is 8 and older) and is a crafter so I though she would be the perfect age for Crafty Bands.   The smile on her face beamed with excitement after I asked if she could be my reviewer.   A prompt little reviewer she is too…I had pictures within a half an hour of her going home to check out Crafty Bands.

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She went to her house and started in on the Crafty Bands.  The Shape Studio Tool was used to customize her own bracelets.  One of the things she enjoyed was actually creating her own styles by writing her name and drawing pictures.

Kylie
Designing the Crafty Bands are fun and the designs are endless!  The bands come in hot Valentine colors such as Bubble Gum Pink, Grape Purple and Ice Blue.   Have your kids make these personalized craft bands for their friends for Valentines Day.  What a treat that would be!

With Crafty Bands, kids are no longer limited to pre-made charms with pre-printed designs.  Here’s how easy it is to create a Crafty Band:

  • Simply find a cool design or picture in a magazine or on the Internet
  • Slide the design into the innovative Shape Studio Tool
  • Place the Bubble Cap over the design
  • Close the lid and press
  • Remove the Bubble Cap and glue it into the Crafty Snap Setting
  • Close the Crafty Snap Setting through the band

The Crafty Bands Starter Kit is priced at $29.95, and includes the Shape Studio Tool, four Crafty Bands, 20 Crafty Snaps, 20 Bubble Caps and adhesive. Refill Kits, including four Crafty Bands and 20 Crafty Snaps, are priced at $6.99.

Crafty Bands are available to order online or by visiting Paperwishes.com or Hearthsong.com. For more information on Crafty Bands, please visit www.craftybands.com and on Facebook.

I would like to thank Kylie for helping me review Crafty Bands.  She did an excellent job!

Disclosure:  I received the Craft Bands Starter Kit for review purposes only.  I was not compensated to write a positive or favorable review.  This is my personal opinion of the product.

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My “After-Holidays” Wish List

January 18, 2013 · by · 4 Comments

Did you get everything you wanted for Christmas?   The item I had at the top of my list I received, thanks to Santa (aka my husband) and I LOVE it.  There were a few things I didn’t ask for but have been on my internal wish list for some time.  I am sure you have a few of those, things you would like to have but don’t buy them thinking they are more of an indulgence than a need.

The top item on my list has been a Keurig Coffee Maker.  My sister-in-law and brother-in-law received one on Christmas morning and I was a little bit jealous!  I am a one cup of coffee drinker and I know this would be something Scott and I would use a lot.  I found one at Best Buy that has everything I want in one.

keurig

Keurig – Special Edition Brewing System – Black/Brushed Silver

  • Programmable LCD message center provides a 24-hour digital clock, auto on/off and brewing temperature control for easy operation
  • Less than 1-minute brew time allows you to prepare multiple beverages quickly
  • K-Cup mini brewers contain the precise amount and grind of coffee or tea that you require
  • Water reservoir holds up to 48 ounces allowing you to fill the water tank less often; serving sizes include 6, 8 and 10 ounces
  • Removable drip tray is dishwasher safe
  • Includes an 12-count coffee and tea K-Cup variety pack

This Keurig is priced at $149…hmmm, my birthday is coming up.  Maybe it will go on my birthday list.  (Hint, hint!)

I found my other “wishlist” item at Best Buy also.   We tend to think of Best Buy as the Tech and TV store but they have so much more.

The Nike+ SportWatch GPS.   I tried running the last few years but I have found I enjoy walking so much more.  All the apps on my phone never work tracking my route.  It’s so disappointing walking a couple of miles and have the GPS stop working and I have lost my total workout.  (This has happened too many times to me.)  I have finally stopped using any kind of tracking system.

Nike+This is why I would love to have the Nike+ SportsWatch GPS, powered by TomTom.  I love the white and silver on this one too, chic and stylish if you ask me.  Check out all these features:

  • Measures your time, distance, pace and calories burned
  • Personal Coach
  • GPS
  • Run reminders
  • Stopwatch
  • Backlit display
  • PC connectivity

I bet you want one now too!  Let me share a few coupons that Best Buy has going on for small appliances along with health and fitness products, so be sure to take advantage of those.

 

best buy appliances

 

jan best buy

 

I am feeling the need to go shopping now!

Disclosure:  The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free

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Wild Waves Holiday With Lights

December 16, 2012 · by · 10 Comments

Friday night we were treated to an experience of holiday fun!  It was chilly night (but no rain – yay!) so we were bundled up and ready to enjoy an evening of fun!

Out of the four of us, only Emily had been to the park before.   As we entered the park we had our VIP lanyards around our neck and headed in.  It was pretty amazing seeing all the holiday lights and also seeing the lights from the rides.

As we walked across the bridge, I loved how all the candy canes lit our way to the excitement for the night.

Our first stop was the big white tent full of an assortment of sweet treats and hot chocolate.  The heaters were a giant plus keeping us warm.  The kids couldn’t believe how cold it was.  I had to take this picture of them trying to warm their hands!

Before the lighting of the Christmas tree, we snuck in a ride…the Hang Glider.  I knew Emily would go on it and was surprised when Brad said he wanted to to go too.  The three of us headed on the ride and had a blast while Scott just waved to us from below.

It was time for the lighting of the tree so we headed over to see Santa arrive and the lighting.  One thing that stands out in my mind was the moment of silence we all held in respect for the Connecticut victims.  It meant so much to me as a mom of two…still trying to comprehend what those families must be going through.  (Thank you Wild Waves for taking that time!)

One of our military families had the honor of turning on the lights.  The dad was deployed so this made their night pretty special.

We were whisked away (which made the kids feel really important) and taken the back way to see Santa.  Our group was the first in line and we all had a moment to take a family picture with the big guy himself.  Great memories made that night.

Once we said goodbye to Santa we were on our way to enjoy more rides.  Emily and I braved the Timberhawk roller coaster IN THE DARK!  Emily screamed the entire time while I laughed and screamed some too!

We hit the carousel for a ride…you can never go wrong with a Merry-Go-Round!

Brad wanted to try the Paratrooper so off we went.  He is 9 (almost 10), and just getting into rides.  I was so excited to see him want to try something new.  As we were sitting on the ride we were talking and I asked him if he was excited.  He said “Yes, but a little nervous too.  I am going to face my fears tonight!”  I was beaming inside!   He was so excited he wanted to go on it again but this time with Emily so off they went.

It was almost 9 p.m. by the time we decided to leave.  Our toes and fingers were numb so we were ready to get warm.  We had so much fun and I have promised them we will go back this summer when it is much warmer!  Wild Waves is also a water park so we will be back for a fun summer day!

As we were headed home, both kids thanked us for taking them.  As they thanked me, I would like to thank Wild Waves for inviting us for such a great family experience!

 

Disclosure:  We received complementary tickets for the Holiday With Lights at Wild Waves.  I was not compensated to write a positive or favorable review.  This is my personal opinion of the park and our experience.

Filed Under: Local Events, Pacific Northwest, Reviews, Uncategorized · Tagged:

Insignia LED Light Bulbs Will Last More Than TWO Decades!

October 28, 2012 · by · 2 Comments

Insignia LED light bulbs will last more than TWO decades?  Yes, you read that right!  These bulbs will last 22.8 years (based on a 3 hour usage per day).   The bulbs I received will replace a 60 watt incandescent A19 bulb AND will use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs.

One of the first things I noticed, is they have a hard, plastic bulb, not glass.  Have you ever had a regular bulb break, just being stored?  I have and the Insignia takes a step above the rest for durability.  These bulbs are also dimmable when used with leading dimmers.  No more having to look for a separate bulbs.  Inevitably, I always buy the wrong one!

I am a warm bulb girl and these bulbs have a warm, white light with an instant on at full brightness (800 lumens).  I took two pictures to show this.  I love that they have the same warm light!  No worrying if you think you may not like the brightness.

These bulbs will only cost you $1.57 per year to use!!!  (3 hours average usage per day at 11 cents per Kwh.)  I counted up the light bulbs we have in throughout our house and we have 14.  If I replaced all of them with the Insignia LED light bulbs, it would cost me $21.98/year or $1.83/month.   That is amazing…merely pennies a day!

Beginning on October 28, 2012 you will be able to find the Insignia LED light bulbs at your local Best Buy and online.  Best Buy is giving you the chance to purchase these at a discount in the stores with this coupon.  I am ready to go and stock up on a few more.

Click on the picture for the coupon

Disclosure:  I have been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.  However, all opinions are my own.

Filed Under: Reviews · Tagged: , , , , ,
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