Saban Brands Is More than Power Rangers! Introducing the Brands!

Saban Brands Swag From Power Rangers, Vortexx & Paul Frank!

In March 2012, I announced that I was a Power Rangers emPOWER Mom, and spoke about Power Rangers Super Samurai costumes, our whole family dressed up in Power Rangers Halloween costumes, and we even had a nice contest to celebrate the new Vortexx television line up!  Being an emPOWER Mom was a blast!

This year I'm thrilled to announce that I'm a Saban Brandbassador--like a Power Rangers emPOWER Mom, but even better!  Saban Brands not only encompasses Power Rangers Megaforce, it also includes Paul Frank, Vortexx on the CW, Julius Jr., Digimon Fusion, The Playforge, Zui.com, and Popples!  Being a Saban Brandbassador is kind of like diversifying my brand portfolio!       

To get into the spirit of things, my friends at Saban Brands sent over 2 sets of Skullcandy earphones, The Power Rangers Super Samurai: Rise of the Bullzooka DVD, 4 packages of Saban's Power Rangers Megaforce Hot Wheels cars, Power Rangers Megaforce and Paul Frank drawing books, a Vortexx bracelet watch and sunglasses, Paul Frank lipsmacker, heaps of Saban Brand stickers, and a Vortexx drawstring bag.  Thanks guys! 

A bit about the Saban Brands:

The Power Rangers are currently celebrating their 20th anniversary this year (can you believe it?), with the current season on Nickelodeon, Power Rangers Megaforce!  Power Rangers teach the values of teamwork, confidence, health and physical activity to reach your personal potential!

Follow Power Rangers on Social Media!

Power Rangers Website

Power Rangers on Facebook

Power Rangers on YouTube

Power Rangers News on Twitter

EmPower Rangers on Twitter

Power Rangers on Instagram 

Paul Frank is Saban Brand's fashion and lifestyle line, for fans from infant to adult alike!  Julius the monkey is the face of Paul Frank.  Paul Frank merchandise includes apparel and accessories for all ages, bicycles, home decor, eyewear, stationary and books.

Follow Paul Frank on Social Media!   

Paul Frank Website

Paul Frank on Facebook

Paul Frank on YouTube

Paul Frank on Twitter

Paul Frank on Instagram 

Paul Frank on Pinterest

Vortexx on the CW Airs Saturday Mornings From 7AM - 12PM!

Vortexx on the CW airs every Saturday morning from 7:00am until 12:00pm, and offers great programming such as Rescue Heroes, The New Adventures of Nanoboy, Yu-Gi-Oh Classic and Yu-Gi-Oh Zexal, Sonic X, Dragon Ball Z Kai, Transformers Prime, and Justice League Unlimited.

Follow Vortexx on Social Media!   

Vortexx Website

Vortexx on Facebook

Vortexx on Twitter

Julius Jr. Will Launch on Nick Junior Fall 2013!

Ready to go bananas?  Julius Jr. will launch on Nick Junior during the fall of 2013!  It's an all-new animated preschool series based on the lovable characters of Paul Frank!  Some important themes that will be covered in the series will include: co-operation, active play, friendship and teamwork, imagination and adventure, and playful adventure.

Follow Julius Jr. on Social Media!   

Julius Jr. on Facebook

Digimon Fusion Will Launch on Nickelodeon in the US in Fall 2013

Digimon Fusion is the sixth installment of the hugely successful 250+ episode Digimon franchise, and will launch on Nickelodeon in the US in Fall 2013.  Digimon is an adventure-packed digital world, where our heroes' courage is only matched by the fusion of their teamwork, humour and loyalty.  The premise of the show is to save the world from an evil threat, or the digital world will be deleted forever!

Follow Digimon Fusion on Social Media!   

Digimon Fusion on Facebook

Saban Brand's franchise The Playforge is a leader in mobile social games that is best known for internationally acclaimed game, Zombie Farm!

Follow The Playforge on Social Media!   

The Playforge Website
The Playforge on Facebook

Zui.com offers the largest collection of curated, kid-friendly online content include a large library of videos and online games.  Zui.com offers a safe, social media experience for kids. 

Follow Zui.com on Social Media!   

Zui.com Website

Get Ready for the Popples in 2014!

Saban Brands acquired Popples last summer and plans to relaunch the nostalgic franchise!  I'm really excited to see Popples in action again, and there will be more to come on the development of this franchise in 2014! Look at those adorable Popples, I still have my vintage Popples sleeping bag, woo-hoo!

Follow Popples on Social Media!

Popples on Facebook

Are you familiar with any of the Saban Brands like Power Rangers Megaforce, Paul Frank, Vortexx on the CW, Julius Jr., Digimon Fusion, The Playforge, Zui.com, or Popples?

Sailun Tires Track Event & Contest!

Burnin' Rubber at the Sailun Tires Track Event!

In May I wrote that Sailun Tires were given the PTPA (Parent Tested, Parent Approved) Winner seal and that I'd be attending their Summer Track event on June 12th in Brampton.  The object of the track event was to compare Sailun Tires to a high end brand, and see how they performed to one another in a blind test.  It was also a great excuse for a bunch of local bloggers to burn rubber and have an incredible day in the glorious sunshine!

How Do Sailun Tires Perform Compared to High-End Tires?

When I arrived at the Powerade Centre in Brampton for the track event, Sailun Tires told the group that in blind tests their tires usually perform just as well or better as high-end brands.  I thought that this was impressive, especially because the Sailun Tires are priced about half the price of the big brands.  I decided that I would see for myself how the Sailun Tires performed.  

I admit that I was excited to get behind the wheel of the test car to "burn rubber" around the closed track.  It was great fun manoeuvring around a course laid out with orange pylons, and seeing how brand A tire performed to brand B tire.  At one point, a professional racecar driver whipped me around the track, and that was quite the thrill ride!

A Peek at the Sailun Tires Track Event

In my opinion, although both tires performed well in two identical cars, I found that the Sailun Tires performed better.  I just found that the Sailun Tires were more responsive, "stickier", and hugged the curves of the track better.  Their motto is "With You Through Every Turn", and having tested the Sailun Tires, I would say this is accurate.  Are you looking for a tire that offers quality, safety and value? 

The Great Blogger Team at the Sailun Tires Track Event!

CONTEST:

WIN 1 of 3 $100 Petro Canada gas cards OR 1 grand prize of a set of Sailun Tires!  Contest runs until Friday July 12th, 2013 and is open to Canada. Good Luck!  ENTER CONTEST HERE 

Like Sailun Tires on Facebook

Follow Sailun Tires on Twitter

Do you think that your current tires are dependable?  Would you be happy to WIN a $100 Petro Canada gift card or a new set of Sailun Tires?

Disclosure: As a Brand Ambassador with PTPA and Sailun Tires, I received compensation for my participation. However, all opinions expressed on this blog are my very own.

Disney's The Lone Ranger Rides In July 3 & CONTEST! (~OVER~)

Disney's The Lone Ranger Rides Into Town July 3, 2013!

The Lone Ranger is Disney's highly anticipated western that rides into theatres everywhere on July 3rd, 2013!  The movie stars the talent of Johnny Depp, Armie Hammer, Tom Wilkinson, William Fichtner, Barry Pepper, James Badge Dale, Ruth Wilson, and Helena Bonham Carter.  It is produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Gore Verbinski (both of Pirates of the Caribbean franchise).  Disney describes The Lone Ranger as "a thrilling adventure infused with action and humour, in which the famed masked hero hero is brought to life through new eyes."

Johnny Depp & Armie Hammer Star in The Lone Ranger!

Brought together by fate, Native American spirit warrior Tonto (Johnny Depp) and sheriff Jon Reid (Armie Hammer) must unite to combat corruption and greed.  Tonto narrates the story of how John Reid is transformed from a sheriff, into The Lone Ranger--a legend of justice.  Expect humour, action, surprises, and the forces of good to prevail over evil.

The Lone Ranger was also a beloved television series, which ran from 1949 until 1957.  It starred Clayton Moore as The Lone Ranger (John Hart from 1952 to 1954) and Jay Silverheels as Tonto.  The exclamation "Heigh-Ho Silver" and the question "Who was that masked man?" both originated from the popular tv series.

Follow Disney & EB Games via Social Media:

Walt Disney Studios Canada on Facebook

Walt Disney Studios Canada on Twitter

EB Games Canada on Facebook

EB Games Canada on Twitter

CONTEST (~OVER~)!

WINNER: Suzanne G.

WIN a The Lone Ranger prize pack from the SnyMed blog!  Prize pack consists of: $25 gift card for EB Games, The Lone Ranger t-shirt, The Lone Ranger baseball cap, The Lone Ranger USB key, The Lone Ranger mask, and The Lone Ranger movie poster!  Open to Canada (sorry Quebec), ends Friday July 12th, 2013 at 11:00am EST.  Please check your e-mails at that time!

HOW TO ENTER

Leave a COMMENT below stating if you ever saw the original The Lone Ranger series, OR if you are excited to see The Lone Ranger 2013 film, OR if you have ever seen any Johnny Depp movies.  Then use the entry form below to enter the contest.  GOOD LUCK!

WIN The Lone Ranger Prize Pack! CANADA

Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness & CONTEST! (~OVER~)

Own Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness Good Croc, Bad Croc on DVD Now!

As the mom of 5 little kids, it escaped us to see the three movies in the Kung Fu Panda franchise from DreamWorks Animation  (Kung Fu Panda, Kung Fu Panda 2, and Kung Fu Panda 3).  My oldest was just a toddler when the first movie came out, but he would be the right age now to enjoy the series.  The  animated television series: Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness Good Croc, Bad Croc was born from the Kung Fu Panda movie franchise, which you can now purchase on DVD from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment!

Po the panda is the star of Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness comedic tv series.  He is a skilled Dragon Warrior and protector of the Valley and Peace.  Working with the Furious Five: Crane, Mantis, Monkey and Viper, together they defeat evil enemies.  The Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness DVD includes more than 2 hours of adventure and laughs, as well as "Croc Crackdown" interactive online game.   

The seven TV episodes included in the Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness Good Croc, Bad Croc DVD are: 

1. Good Croc Bad Croc
2. The Princess and the Po
3. Chain Reaction
4. Bad Po
5. Jailhouse Panda
6. Father Crime
7. Po Fans Out

 Follow Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment on Twitter @FoxHomeEnt!

CONTEST! (~OVER~)

WINNERS: Henry C. & Christy M.

WIN 1 of 2 copies of Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness Good Croc, Bad Croc on DVD!  Contest open to Canada & USA.  Ends Monday July 22nd, 2013.

HOW TO ENTER:

Leave a COMMENT below stating if you have ever seen a Kung Fu Panda movie (or the tv series), OR if you know Kung Fu, OR if you think pandas are cute.  Then enter the contest entry form below.  GOOD LUCK!

WIN 1 of 2 Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness DVDs! CANADA/USA

Monsters University Movie Review!

Monsters University Opens in Theatres June 21st, 2013 in 3D!

Monsters University is Disney-Pixar's highly anticipated sequel--or more accurately prequel--to their 2001 blockbuster Monsters Inc!  Mike Wazowski (voiced by Billy Crystal) and James P. Sullivan, “Sulley” (voiced by John Goodman) both reprise their roles in Monsters University, which is ear candy for the audience!  Monsters University follows the early lives of Mike Wazowski and Sulley, and chronicles the path that each takes to become professional scarers.

Monsters University Synopsis:Mike Wazowski decides to become a scarer during a school field trip to the "scare floor", whilst Sulley is born into the role because his dad is a scaring legend.  Frightened screams from children power the monster world, so it is a worthwhile vocation!  All the way through public school and high school, Mike studies hard so he can attend Monsters University, whereas Sulley depends on his inborn  monster talent.  It is fate that Mike and Sulley will meet, but it is not the meeting that one would expect of (future) best friends.

Check Out The New Man on Campus! 

It is a semester of non-stop studies for Mike, but he seems to only grasp scaring theoretically, and has a hard time putting scaring into practise.  The truth is, Mike just isn't scary.  Nonetheless, he works relentlessly toward his final exams.  On the other hand, Sulley is genuinely scary, but he is getting poor marks in school.   And although Sulley is scary, he is a "one trick pony" in the scare repertoire department.  

The day of final exams arrives, and Mike and Sulley wager who will do better.  Their rivalry is just too heated, and they accidentally break open Dean Hardscrabble's (voiced by Helen Mirren) scream cannister that houses the biggest scream she ever collected in her career.  Reduced to anger, the Dean gives Mike and Sulley their final the exams on the spot, and expels them from the scaring programme when they fail to perform as expected.    

Mike and Sulley are in a state of disbelief about being expelled, but Mike thinks up a plan to get back into the scaring programme.  The Greek Council is holding scare games to see which fraternity or sorority is the scariest, and Mike convinces Dean Hardscrabble to let him back into the scaring programme--IF he can win the scare games!

The Oozma Kappa (OK) Fraternity!
Can They Win the Scare Games?

Mike pairs up with fraternity Oozma Kappa (OK), a group of monster misfits, but they are missing a team member and may have to back out.  But, when Sulley steps up to the plate to pledge OK, Mike's ego is hard-pressed to allow him to join.  At the last minute, Mike agrees to work with Sulley, but can they work as a team to take the scariest frat title?

Oozma Kappa (OK) introduces brand new monsters like Terri and Terry Perry (voiced by Sean Hayes and Dave Foley), Scott "Squishy" Squibbles (Peter Sohn), Art (Charlie Day), and Don Carlton (Joel Murray).  OK's biggest rivals are Roar Omega Roar (ROR), but the 3-eyed pink ladies from Python Nu Kappa sorority (PNK) are fierce competition too!  For Randall fans, (Steve Buscemi) returns to Monsters University!

I don't want to spoil some of the greatest scenes in the movie, so I'll stop right here!  What I can say about Monsters University, is that I liked it just as much as Monsters Inc, maybe even better!  The movie was hysterical (for adults and kids alike), beautifully animated, voiced by some of the best talent in the industry, fast-paced, featured brand new monsters, looked great in 3D, and had a beautiful storyline.  The comedic timing between Billy Crystal and John Goodman could not have been better, as they recorded their lines in the same room together!  

As is always the case with Disney-Pixar films, Monsters University was heart-warming and had important life lessons.  One lesson was about the importance of teamwork, and another about being yourself and letting your own special talents shine, no matter what they are.  And one message that really rings through, is that with hard work and determination, you can be whoever you want to be--as long as you set you mind to it.

Monsters University Opens in Theatres Today (June 21st)!

I highly recommend that you take your family to see Monsters University!  We took our 5 kids, aged 2, 4, 5, 6 and 8-years old--and each sat through all 107 minutes of it.  My husband and I also enjoyed good laughs, and I was definitely on the edge of my seat during the scare games!

Follow Disney-Pixar on social media!

Disney-Pixar Website                    

Disney-Pixar on Facebook         

Disney-Pixar on Twitter

Are you going to see Monsters University movie with your kids or grandkids?  Have you seen Monsters Inc. before?

CATS Runs Til September 1st at Panasonic Theatre & CONTEST! (~OVER~)

The All-Canadian new production of CATS is running at the Panasonic Theatre in Toronto, and it has been held-over until September 1st, 2013!  It is based on "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats' and Other Poems" by T.S. Eliot, and was composed by Andrew Lloyd Weber.  It first opened in London in 1981, where it ran for 21 years!  The new 20-member all-Canadian company of CATS is directed by Dave Campbell.

Toronto Cast of CATS

Do you remember the CATS the musical?  I remember being a child in my parent's car and hearing them play songs like Memory, The Rum Tum Tugger, Old Deuteronomy, and Grizabella: The Glamour Cat....all on tape cassette!  When I was a teenager, I was fortunate enough to see CATS on Broadway in New York City.  I'll always remember the amazing voices and jaw-dropping dance moves.  Over 30 years have passed  since those days, but I still could sing some of the CATS songs to you...it's that memorable.

Expect to Be Entertained By the Dancing & Singing in CATS!

Tickets to CATS are on-sale now at mirvish.com or by calling 1-800-461-3333.  Or find out more information by visiting the CATS Toronto website!

Follow CATS TORONTO on social media, below!
CATS Toronto on Facebook
CATS Toronto on Twitter
CATS Toronto Website

CONTEST (~OVER~)

WINNER: Scott R.

WIN Tickets for two (2) to see CATS in the Panasonic Theatre in Toronto on Friday July 12th, 2013 at 7:30pm EST!  Contest ends Monday July 8th, 2013...please check your e-mails that evening after 8:00pm EST! 

HOW TO ENTER
Leave a COMMENT below stating if you ever saw CATS the musical before, OR why you would love to see it, OR if you own a cat!  Then, use the entry form below to enter the contest.  GOOD LUCK!

WIN Tickets for 2 to CATS the Musical! TORONTO

My Newborn Bathtime Memories & JOHNSON’S® NATURAL® baby products!

My Nurse Bathing My Son Only Hours Old!

When our first child was born, I was very well prepared--or so I thought!  I had the plastic baby bathtub with an anti-slip padding for baby, brand new baby washcloths, and adorable hooded towels for our son!  Little did I know, that my son did not like to be stripped down and his cries would ring off the bathroom walls!  So I tried to compensate for temperature difference by warming the room, and making sure the water was warm enough--but not too warm--for our newborn.

This definitely improved the situation, but my little guy still was fussy at bathtime.  As a result, I learned to be the world's fastest baby bather!  And thank goodness I learned this skill: we ended up having 5 children born only 5 years apart!  Each and every night I bathed a newborn, baby, toddler, preschooler and kindergartener all at the very same time!  PHEW, this was my life!

After our son's first bath at home, I noticed he was covered in a rash--and right before his first paediatrician appointment!  (Yes, the doctor noticed too!)  To me it seemed like a clear case of cause and effect: the baby wash that I was using was not mild enough for my son's skin.  For my husband and I, it became a series of trials and tribulations to find a baby wash that didn't cause our son's skin to react.  But our search paid off, and we found a wash that worked well for our son's delicate skin!    

Loving Bathtime!

As our son moved from newborn to infant, his love of bathtime greatly increased!  As soon as I put him in his baby bathtub, he would start to splash with his little hands and move his little feet.  With every big splash he would let out a little squeal of delight, and would often burst into peals of laughter.  Each night, we would both look forward to the bathtime routine.  It helped both of us to sleep better.

There is just something so rewarding about bathing a baby, I believe: putting him into fresh sleepers, giving him his nightime feeding, and sending him off for a peaceful slumber (after lots of hugs and kisses).  Bathtime is such an important time for mom (or dad) and baby to bond, laugh, sing, giggle, "talk" and play together.  At it's best, it's a wonderfully calm and relaxing time when both mommy (or daddy) and baby can unwind from the busy day. 

JOHNSON’S® NATURAL® baby products!

As the mom of a newborn who had sensitive skin, allow me to introduce improved JOHNSON’S® NATURAL® baby products, which are paraben-free, dye-free and phthalate-free!  With over 100 years of baby care knowledge, moms (and dads) can feel confident that JOHNSON’S®  will be gentle on baby’s skin.  JOHNSON’S® NATURAL® baby products are made from 97-99% naturally-derived ingredients!

Shown above are JOHNSON’S® NATURAL® baby shampoo, JOHNSON’S® NATURAL® HEAD‐TO‐TOE® baby wash, and JOHNSON’S® NATURAL® baby lotion.  (If you have never had a newborn before, believe me that their little hands and feet often need baby lotion!)  

Visit the JOHNSON’S® Baby page on the BabyCentre website, or visit JOHNSON’S® Baby on Facebook!  

Do you remember your child's very first bathtime?  Did it go smoothly, or were there some "waves"? 

Product provided as promotional consideration to the SnyMed Blog by Johnson & Johnson Inc. 

Eddie Bauer Summer Collection & CONTEST! (~OVER~)

Which Eddie Bauer Summer 2013 Outfit Do You Want to WIN?

I previously wrote about my 20-year affair with Eddie Bauer and Eddie Bauer's Travex clothing line!  But have you checked out their summer 2013 clothes line?  I would categorize their clothing as feminine, beautiful fitting, well-made, and quite comfortable!  Oh, and their sizing is quite flattering to one's ego: expect to purchase 1-2 sizes smaller than your actual size!  Depending on clothing item, Eddie Bauer sizing ranges from S-XXL, with petite, tall and plus sizes too!

Check out the four Eddie Bauer summer outfits above, you can WIN your favourite one!  Which one will YOU choose?  Read more about the four outfits I put together, and then enter to WIN the one you like best (in your own size, and colour choice, subject to availability).  

Outfit #1 - Eddie Bauer
Pintuck Polo Shirt & Slightly Curvy Adventurer Ripstop Shorts

Here's Outfit #1: Eddie Bauer Pintuck polo shirt in white, $29.95 USD, (available in 5 great colours), and Eddie Bauer Slightly Curvy Adventurer 8" Stretch Ripstop Shorts in pumice, $39.95 USD, (available in 7 awesome colours).  I love dressing for comfort in summer, so this is a more elegant casual option.  Both pieces fit very well and are both very comfortable.  The pintuck polo shirt has a collar, antique buttons, faux pleat detailing running down the chest, and buttoning on the sleeve to make it appear cinched.  Will you choose Outfit #1?

Outfit #2 - Eddie Bauer
Smocked Keyhole Henley T-Shirt & Bandana Print Skirt

Introducing Outfit #2: Eddie Bauer Smocked Keyhole Henley T-Shirt in white, $39.95 USD, (available in 5 great colours),  and the Eddie Bauer Bandana Print Skirt in navy, $59.95 USD.  You may have noticed that I've gone with a white and blue theme for summer.  Summer is my favourite time to wear white, and I love the colour blue all year round.  Both pieces are very fresh for summer and comfortable.  Pieces are sized very generously, so expect to purchase 1-2 sizes down.  Will you choose Outfit #2?

Outfit #3 Eddie Bauer
Essential Summer Dress

Say hello to Outfit #3: Eddie Bauer Essential Summer Dress - Print in sailor blue, $79.95 USD, (available in 4 different prints)!  This shortsleeve dress ties empire waist style, which is flattering to many figures.  The Essential Summer Dress is made from crinkle cotton and does not require ironing and will always be a wrinkle-free.  Feels great on!  Will you choose Outfit #3?   

Outfit #4 Eddie Bauer
Curvy Denim Capris & Layering Tank Top

Allow me to present Outfit #4: Eddie Bauer Curvy Denim Capris in pacific wash, $59.95 USD (available in 3 colours), and the Eddie Bauer Layering Tank Top, white, $19.95 USD (available in 4 colours).  The tank is so versatile, and I am actually wearing it underneath the other 3 Eddie Bauer outfits in this blog post.  Both pieces are super soft, well-fitting and comfortable.  You can comfortably buy your current size, or one size down in both.  I will wear these great pieces a lot!  Will you choose Outfit #4?   

All these great outfits can be purchased on EddieBauer.com, or perhaps you'd like to WIN an outfit instead!

CONTEST (~OVER~)

WINNER: Leslie H.

Would you like to WIN an Eddie Bauer summer outfit from one the four choices above?  Winner will receive their choice outfit in their proper size, and colour (subject to availability).  Contest open to Canada & the USA.  Ends Monday July 8th, 2013.    

HOW TO ENTER

Leave a COMMENT below stating WHERE you would wear your choice Eddie Bauer outfit, then fill out the entry form below.  GOOD LUCK!

WIN Eddie Bauer Women's Outfit! CANADA/USA

Happy Father's Day, to All Great Dads!

Father's Day in my eyes is not to honour all fathers, but all great dads out there.  I'm thinking about the dad that plays catch with his son, dress up with his daughter, or board games with the family.  Dads that barbecue the family meal, teach his children how to fish or do woodwork, and give gentle advice on how to improve a golf swing, chess move, or card game.   

My husband is a good man and it has been very important to him from the beginning to be an engaged and present father to our 5 children.  You can often find him reading storybooks to the kids, teaching them how to play chess, or how to ride a 2-wheel bicycle.  When we were contemplating adding a 4th, and then 5th child to our family, he said he would only consider it if it meant being able to devote one-on-one time with each and every child.   

Happy Father's Day! Now Open Up the Presents!

My husband works hard to be a good father, so I thought it would only be fitting to give him a great gift this year.  Truly, he would have been pleased if we just honoured him with a greeting card, but he this year there was something that he needed...

Dad With His New HP Envy x2 Laptop!

Believe it or not, dad did not have a working computer.  We have a drawer full of broken laptops, so dad was sharing a tablet with the kids.  So I decided that the HP Envy x2 laptop would work well for him.

HP Envy x2 

The HP Envy x2 is a laptop computer, which unanchors from the keyboard to be a stand-alone computer tablet.  It will allow my husband to do office work, and then watch Netflix or surf the internet casually.

Dad Checking Out Netflix on His New HP Envy x2 Laptop

Believe it or not, the HP Envy x2 laptop weighs only 3.1 pounds, so it is as light as a kitten!  It is very compact, and it can be easily brought along wherever dad goes.  And if dad presses key F5, the keyboard will illuminate so he can work in dim light.

What's In the Second Box?

Dad also got a box with a second gift...one that would complement the first gift.  At this point, I think that dad was a little overwhelmed, but he still had a smile for the family.

Dad With His HP Envy 120-e All-in-One Printer

When dad opened his second gift, he was surprised to find it was the HP Envy 120-e-All-in-One printer!  Truthfully, we haven't had a printer set up in our house for many years now, but the HP Envy 120-e is a printer, scanner and photocopier...and wireless!  

Someone's Excited With His Gift!

This HP Envy 120-e allows dad to print from his smartphone, laptop or tablet.  The printer even has a mini touchscreen console right on it!  The printer even comes with 2 print cartridges!

Check Out Dad's HP Printing Accessories!

Dad also got HP products to go with his printer (phew, with all these gifts, it's starting to feel like one of those Russian nesting dolls)!  Some products included high-capacity HP XL ink cartridges, that save up to 40% on printing (black and tri-colour), HP bright white inkjet paper (sustainably-sourced), and HP Advanced Photo Paper (glossy, 4" x 6").  Combine the HP Envy 120-e all-in-one printer with the HP printing supplies, and photos print out with photo lab quality!  

I found printable Father's Day cards, and printed a greeting card of the kids, which you can see at the very top of this blog post!  The HP website also has a printable cards section, which you can check out too!  

Happy Father's Day to Dad!

Dad is having a great time with HP Envy x2 laptop, HP Envy 120-e all-in-one-printer and his HP printing supplies!  Just like you would expect from a good dad, he has already printed out tons of photos of the kids. Picture perfect!

Disclosure: HP products mentioned in this post were supplied by HP Canada.

What are your plans for Father's Day this year?  Do you have any fond memories of your dad (or person who was like a dad to you)?

Netflix Canada for Father's Day & CONTEST! (~OVER~)

What Are You Giving Dad This Year For Father's Day?

My dad is SO hard to buy for, that each year at Father's Day we prefer to have him pick out his own gifts.  My husband on the other hand, is SUPER easy to buy for and always genuinely delighted that we just thought of him.  What both men have in common, though, is an enjoyment of movies and television series--but an aversion to commercials.  That is why I would recommend Netflix for those dads on your list this Father's Day!

Netflix offers the first month FREE, at a cost of only $7.99 per month for unlimited, commercial-free movies and television.  Dad will like that when he turns off Netflix, it remembers where he left off so he can resume watching on his television, computer, tablet or smartphone.  If dad watches a tv series and finishes an episode, it automatically advances to the next episode--or will give him the option to choose another episode.  It is very convenient, and dad can literally watch anywhere that he has an internet connection (wireless or otherwise)!  If dad is a night owl or an early bird, he can tune in 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at a time that is convenient for him.   

I wrote Is Netflix Right for Your Family? and how I got Netflix for Mom in past blog articles, so read either of those articles if you're looking for more detailed information.  It takes about 2 minutes to sign up and get the first month of Netflix for FREE.  Cancellation is done easily online with no hassles, if the option is ever needed.

Here are just a few movies that Netflix has for Father's Day:

Captain America
Coach Carter
Grown Ups
Fast and the FuriousFriday Night Lights
The Italian Job
The Longest Yard
Thor
Transformers: Dark of the Moon
UFC: Best of 2012: Year in Review

CONTEST (~OVER~)

WINNER: To be announced shortly...

Would you like to WIN Netflix for your fantastic dad, or husband, or are you a wonderful father who would like to WIN ONE WHOLE YEAR of Netflix for Father's Day?  I will also include a Roku 2 internet streaming box and remote control that will allow him to watch Netflix on tv just like usual.  Contest open to CANADA and ends  Friday July 5th, 2013!  This contest is open to Canada only, thank you.

HOW TO ENTER:

Leave a COMMENT below telling why your dad or husband is fantastic (or why people think you're a wonderful father)!  Then use the entry form below to enter.  GOOD LUCK!

   

WIN Netflix 1 YEAR Membership & Roku Player for Father's Day! CANADA

Despicable Me 2 Comes to Theatres July 3 & CONTEST! (~OVER~)

Despicable Me 2 Opens in Theatres July 3, 2013!

"Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment's worldwide blockbuster Despicable Me entertained audiences around the globe in 2010, grossing more than $540 million and becoming the 10th-biggest animated motion picture in U.S. history.  In summer 2013, get ready for more minion madness in Despicable Me 2.  Chris Meledandri and his acclaimed filmmaking team create an all-new comedy adventure featuring the return of (former?) super-villain Gru (Steve Carell), his adorable girls, the unpredictably hilarious Minions...and a host of new and outrageously funny characters."     

My family and I loved Despicable Me, and we can't WAIT to see Despicable Me 2!  

The film looks hysterical, and seems like it will follow in its predecessor's footsteps.  Steve Carell returns as Gru in the sequel, which is FANTASTIC, as he was so entertaining in the first film.  It opens in theatres everywhere on July 3rd, 2013!  So, do you want to see it with your family, courtesy of the SnyMed blog and Universal Pictures Canada?

Follow Universal Pictures Canada and Despicable Me 2 on social media!

Facebook: Universal Pictures Canada
YouTube: UniPicturesCanada
Website: Universal Pictures Canada

Twitter: DespicableMe

Guess Who's Back?  Despicable Me 2, July 3rd, 2013!

CONTEST (2 WINNERS) ~OVER~!

WINNERS: Maggie C & Andrew C.

WIN Family tickets (for 4) to see the Despicable Me 2 advance screening in TORONTO on Thursday June 27th, 2013 at 7:00pm, courtesy of the SnyMed blog and Universal Pictures Canada!

You will also WIN 2 kids t-shirts, 2 adult t-shirts, 2 Despicable Me 2 stamps, 2 pairs of Despicable Me 2 3D glasses, and 2 Despicable Me 2 stress balls!  Each prize pack will arrive in an reusable Despicable Me 2 bag!  Prize to be picked up at advance screening.  I will be drawing 2 FAMILIES as WINNERS!  Ends Monday June 24th at 11:00am ET, so do make note of the end date and time...and check your e-mails!

*As this is a short run contest, WINNERS WILL HAVE 24 HOURS TO CLAIM PRIZE BY E-MAIL.*

HOW TO ENTER

Leave a COMMENT below stating if you've ever seen Despicable Me (the original) movie, OR why you think you're family would enjoy Despicable Me 2!  I read ALL your comments, so thank you.  Then, use the entry form below to enter the contest.  GOOD LUCK!
        

WIN Despicable Me 2 Family Movie Passes (4) & AWESOME Prize Pack! (2 WINNERS!) TORONTO

10 Gifts Your Dad Will Love for Father’s Day, 2013!

I'm very fortunate to have a dad that's pretty great, I think! Although my dad got married when he was only 19-years old, he has always been there for me. When I think about my dad, what comes to mind is a series of generous gestures. I fondly remember the chocolate chip pancakes that dad would make for my brother and I, on Sundays -- his day off. He still makes these very same pancakes for his grandchildren, four decades later!

Or how about the barbecues dad would make at the cottage up north? I remember him trying endlessly to light the charcoal barbecue -- in the wind -- so our family could enjoy a hot meal. As well, I remember my brother and I begging our dad for a "special visitor" before bedtime. Yes, my dad would dress up as a friendly character to send my brother and I off for a good night. We had a cowboy, a native chief, and a visit from a friendly zombie even! Good, happy times. 

To honour my dad and dads like mine, check out this list of 10 Gifts Your Dad Will Love for Father's Day, 2013! 

1. Samsung Galaxy S4 Phone - I own the Samsung Galaxy S3, and can vouch that it's a great phone! The S3 has an amazing camera and very sharp resolution, which apparently has improved with the S4. My phone impressed my husband so much, that he wants to replace his current phone with the S4. I can't afford to buy him the Samsung Galaxy S4 this Father's Day, but hopefully the price will come down by his birthday!

2. Weber Barbecue - My husband very thoughtfully received a Weber barbecue for Father's Day from my dad years ago, and it has been such a useful and reliable gift! In fact, each and every winter we grill on our Weber barbecue in our snow-filled Toronto backyard. He'll feel like the king of the grill on a Weber!

3. HP Laptop & Wireless Printer! - This is the present I'm giving my cool husband this year for Father's Day! He alternates between using my laptop and the kids' tablet, so I decided on the HP Envy x2. It's a laptop computer with touchscreen, which uncouples into a stand-alone tablet. I also got him the HP Envy 120 e all-in-one printer, which allows wireless printing from the HP tablet or a smartphone. High-tech: the printer also has a mini touchscreen!

4. Baton Rouge Steakhouse! - My dad loves Baton Rouge restaurant, and is crazy about the ribs there! For almost any special occasion where a gift is required (including Father's Day), I just slip a Baton Rouge restaurant gift card inside his envelope and he's delighted. Baton Rouge also serves amazing hot appetizers, like cheddar dip with crispy tortilla chips or Louisiana spinach dip! Locations in Ontario and Quebec.

5. Costco Membership! - It's a big joke in my family that my dad is seriously addicted to Costco! Whenever I tell my dad what I just bought, he always tells me he just saw it for cheaper at Costco. If I tell him I bought a package of 8 frozen hamburgers, he'll tell me that Costco sells a 16-pack...for $10 less! He also loves Costco's little restaurant and lunches himself on the giant hotdogs and bottomless soda pop. My dad would be lost without hisCostco membership, so allow me to suggest one as a Father's Day gift for your dad!

6. Blu-ray Player - Does your dad still have his favourite movie library--on VHS? If yes, it's time to transition him over to the wonderful world of blu-ray! Father's Day is as good a day as any to ease dad into the digital world, and prices on blu-ray players have really fallen over the past year. Just imagine dad's delight when he doesn't have to rewind the movie when he's done watching it!

7. Baseball Tickets - If your dad is a sports fan, why not get him tickets to a baseball game for Father's Day? There's nothing like watching a homerun live in the stadium, when you hear that perfect crack of ball on bat. It's electric the way the fans rise to their feet, the way that they roar, as the batter glides across home plate...but I digress! Take your dad to a baseball game and enjoy quality time spent together! Can't afford tickets? Take an hour or two to play catch with your dad, regardless of your age.

8. Reclining Chair - Dads everywhere can benefit from a reclining chair in order to relax after a hard day's work! Let's face it, if dad falls asleep on the couch, there's nowhere for anyone else to sit--and it's so much more dignified! Get dad one with a pull-out footrest to rest his poor tender tootsies this Father's Day!

9. Gym Membership - Is your dad still a size 31" waist, just like in his youth--except his stomach hangs over his belt? Then maybe it's time to get dad a health club membership for Father's Day! Facilities like the YMCA have amenities for dad like a swimming pool, walking track, weight room, and cardio equipment. Dad can play a pick up game of basketball, badminton, or even table tennis. Psst, they offer a 2-week trial membership for free, big spender! Locations Canada-wide.

10. Classic Gifts - If you dad prefers classic gifts for Father's Day, he will be very easy to shop for! Tried and true gifts for dads include: tools, car stuff, golf clubs, a new watch, speaker system, necktie, belt or golf shirt. Think 3 times before buying dad cuff links or a tie pin, its 2013! If you're on a tight budget, take dad out for wings and a pitcher of beer, or plan a morning of fishing off the pier together (don't forget your fishing licence)!

This article was written by me, Jenna Em, and also appears in the June 10th, 2013 issue of The Huffington Post.

What are you getting your father or husband for Father's Day this year?  How will you spend Father's Day this year?