Monthly Archives: December 2013

Adobe, Photoshop Elements 12 Review & Giveaway!!! 2 Winners!!! #HolidayGiftGuide

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My photo editing software has long been Photoshop Elements.  I love the user-friendly format and have been using it for years.  I upgrade as the new versions come out and have recently upgraded to Photoshop Elements 12.  Every time a new version comes out it’s interesting to explore and find out the great new added features.

 

With Photoshop Elements 12 you will still be able to organize, edit, create, and share your photos but you can do it  more quickly and easily thanks to big, bold icons; a helpful Action bar; and the ability to choose from Quick, Guided, and Expert editing modes to fit your needs.  It has never been easier to sort and manage photos based on people, places, and events using new Organizer views. Find your photos using visual tags that represent people, places, pets, events, and objects.   Of course you will be able to create perfect shots from not so perfect pics with handy editing features that have been enhanced or added to Photoshop Elements 12!

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Content Aware Move lets you easily move objects in your photo to get things to look the way you want.  We all take shots where everyone is not where we want them, right?  Now, take a look at how easily you can fix that.

You can also straighten photos and use Content Aware Fill to fill in any missing background, fix a  pet’s eyes with the new pet eye feature edit, use Photomerge Group Shot to take the best faces from a series of group shots and get one spectacular picture.  I love this feature, and it has let me get the perfect family photo more times than I can count.
You can share your photos easily right to social media sites with ease because now these options are available not only in the Organizer like previous versions, but right in the editor in Photoshop Elements 12!!!  In the quick mode you can now add artistic touches to your photos to put your personal touch on your favorite photos.  Add embellishments and frames to make your photos stand out, look at the video below to see just how easy it is!
New filters are available that let you turn your photos into stunning illustrations.  Try using the Comic, Graphic Novel, and Pen & Ink filters to get the WOW without all the work!  Want step by step guidance?  Now there are added edits available in the Guided edit mode.  You can restore old photos, make a photo puzzle or add neat effects like the Zoom Burst with ease!
As a wife, mom of 5, blogger, writer, editor, hobby photographer and marketing director, I rely on Photoshop Elements to let me get the look I want as easily and as quickly as I can when editing as many photos as I do.  Having the ability to easily organize, edit and share the thousands of photos I take is essential to what I do.  Photoshop Elements is my go to choice of editing software because it’s so user-friendly and it lets me make my photos pop.  I am loving Photoshop Elements 12 and I know you will too.  Mommy Ramblings thinks Photoshop Elements 12 make a great Holiday Gift for the photo moms, dads, sisters, brothers, daughters, sons and more on your gift list.  You can find Photoshop Elements 12 on our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide!!!
System Requirements

Windows

  • 1.6GHz or faster processor (including single-core support)
  • Microsoft® Windows® XP with Service Pack 3, Windows Vista® with Service Pack 2, Windows 7, or Windows 8 & 8.1 (Note: Limited Camera Raw functionality on Windows XP)
  • 1GB of RAM (2GB for HD video functions)
  • 4GB of available hard-disk space (additional free space required during installation)
  • Color monitor with 16-bit color video card
  • 1024×768 display resolution
  • Microsoft DirectX 9 compatible display driver
  • DVD-ROM drive
  • Internet connection required for product activation*

Mac OS

  • 64-bit multicore Intel® processor
  • Mac OS X v10.7 through v10.9
  • 2GB of RAM
  • 4GB of available hard-disk space (additional free space required during installation)
  • 1024×768 display resolution
  • DVD-ROM drive
  • QuickTime 7 software required for multimedia features
  • Internet connection required for product activation*

Adobe is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!  Two lucky blog readers will win Photoshop Elements 12!  Thank you to Adobe for the review Photoshop Elements 12 and for sponsoring this photogenic giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!

Adobe Photoshop Elements 12 Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

Please enter the giveaway with the Rafflecopter widget below.  Good Luck!!!

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Newbridge Silverware, Silverplated Jewelry Review and Giveaway For Greta Garbo Watch!!! #HolidayGiftGuide

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Have you heard of Newbridge Silverware?   If you haven’t, you are in for a treat because I am going to share their jewelry with you.    Newbridge Silverware Jewelry  is renowned for Style and Quality and encompasses an extensive range of collections including their signature Silverplated Collection. Each collection includes pendants, earrings, necklaces, bangle, brooches and watches perfect for any gift occasion. I recently had a chance to review some of their  jewelry.  

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The first piece was a Celtic Swirl Bangle Cuff  Bracelet.  Inspired by the most notable of Irish symbols, the Celtic Swirl, this Celtic collection of jewelry is a true Irish heirloom. Designed and crafted in Ireland, it is guaranteed to become a real keepsake, to be treasured and enjoyed.  This is a gorgeous substantial bracelet with a great presentation right in the box!  This silver plated bangle has a protective anti-tarnish layer.  It makes a beautiful gift this holiday season!!!

Newbridge Bangle

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The next piece I received for review was The Waterlily Pendant.  The waterlily is one of the world’s most loved plants. The Waterlily Collection of jewelry endeavors to capture the pure essence and beauty of this stunning and elegant plant. Exuding femininity and grace, this pendant will be adored and treasured. Made in Ireland, fashioned by centuries old craft techniques, for generations to enjoy.  This pendant is gorgeous and comes on a nice long adjustable chain.  The pendant is also silver plated and treated with the easy care anti-tarnish layer.  Another great gift choice or for yourself.

Waterlily Pendant

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There are so many beautiful items available at Newbridge Silverware that Mommy Ramblings is adding it to our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide.

Newbridge Silverware  is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!  One luck blog reader will win the Greta Garbo Inspired Watch!  Thank you Newbridge for the review pieces and for sponsoring this beautiful giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

Newbridge Silverware Greta Garbo Watch:

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Epitomising the glamour and beauty of the Art Deco period, this stunning watch is part of the exquisite Greta Garbo collection. The essence of style and sophistication; the Newbridge Silverware collection of Greta Garbo jewelry is a magnificent and opulent range. Romance and glamour from a bygone era are brought back to life in this collection and bring a touch of allure and elegance to any stylish ensemble. Greta Garbo, a true icon of the age. Endorsed by the Garbo Estate and the Great Nephew of Greta Garbo.

Vintage style Greta Garbo IPS plated timepiece with high resistance to scratching, clear stone settings, black leather strap, Japanese movement stainless steel backing, presented in the Greta Garbo collection packaging. Full year parts and service guarantee.

Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter widget below.  Good Luck!!!

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Winning Moves Games, Super Big Boggle Review & Giveaway!!! #HolidayGiftGuide

Winning Moves Games Logo
Boggle and Big Boggle are word games that have been a staple in our home since I was a kid.  It was my mom’s favorite game and always reminds me of her. Super Big Boggle from Winning Moves Games takes Boggle and Big Boggle to the ultimate extreme giving players a super-sized 6×6 grid including the NEW double letter cube and NEW blank cube!  This game is one I really like because it makes your brain work and is not some mindless board game.  If you have a word loving game player on your holiday list, you should check out Super Big Boggle at Winning Moves Games!!!  You will find Super Big Boggle on our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide!!!
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Winning Moves Games is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!  One lucky blog reader will win their own Super Big Boggle Game!  Thank you Winning Moves Games for the review game and for sponsoring this awesome giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

Winning Moves Games, Super Big Boggle Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:
Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter widget.

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Winning Moves Games, Tile Lock Super Scrabble Review & Giveaway!!! #HolidayGiftGuide

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Scrabble is probably one of the most popular board games out there and it has truly stood the test of time.  I love Scrabble, so I could not wait to try out Tile Lock Super Scrabble.  The Tile Lock feature gives Super Scrabble more versatility, allowing players to rotate he board and angle for the best view while holding the tiles firmly on the board.  Super Scrabble board has 441 spaces , 200 plastic letter tiles, 4 plastic tile racks, drawstring tile storage bag and illustrated instructions. 2-4 players can play and it is recommended for ages 8 and up!  So if you have not found the perfect gift for the game playing, word enthusiast on your holiday gift list yet, Tile Lock Super Scrabble is a W-I-N-N-E-R!!!  Mommy Ramblings has added Tile Lock Super Scrabble to our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide!!!

Super Scrabble

 

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Winning Moves Games is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!  One lucky blog reader will win their own Tile Lock Super Scrabble Game!  Thank you Winning Moves Games for the review game and for sponsoring this awesome giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

Winning Moves Games, Tile Lock Super Scrabble Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

Please enter the Giveaway using the Rafflecopter widget below.  Good Luck!!!

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Wonder Forge, Justice League, Axis of Villains Strategy Game Review & Giveaway!!! #HolidayGiftGuide

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If you are looking for a great game for a super hero fan aged 8 and above; Wonder Forge, Justice League, Axis of Villains Strategy Game may be the perfect choice.  This strategy game from Wonder Forge will have all the players working as a team on the Justice League to defend the satellite by defeating all the villains on the game board before they destroy the satellite.

As a parent I like that this game is encouraging team work as that’s such an important skill for kids to develop and the strategy aspect makes them think.  My little ones are a little too young for this right now, but I can see that they are going to love it as they get a bit older.  Wonder Forge has so many great game ideas for everyone on your holiday list, so check out their website.

Mommy Ramblings has added Wonder Forge Justice League Axis of Villains Strategy Game to our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide!!!

Axis of Villains

 

Villains Strategy GamesWonder Forge is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings.  One lucky blog reader will win their own Justice League, Axis of Villains Strategy Game! Thank you Wonder Forge for the review game and for sponsoring this super giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

Wonder Forge, Justice League , Axis of  Villains Strategy Game Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter widget below.  Good Luck!!!

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New York Ravioli & Pasta Company, Jolie Ravioli Review and Giveaway!!!

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My little ones are picky eaters.  It sometimes seems like if I let them, they would eat the same things over and over.  They are reluctant to try new things for the most part, but they are getting better.  I recently made some Jolie Cheese Ravioli for them.  We’re Italian and they love their pasta!  Cheese ravioli were always a favorite of mine as a child and my kids are no different.

Jolie Ravioli

The ravioli cooked in about 9 minutes and I served them with tomato sauce and fresh grated Parmesan cheese.  I never saw my 6-year-old eat so fast and eat everything on his plate!  My four-year old was not far behind.  Mom had a taste too and they were delicious and tasted as good as any gourmet cheese ravioli that I’ve ever had.  I was happy to see that the ravioli stayed perfectly sealed during the cooking process so the cheese stayed tucked inside.  The shapes were fun for the kids and would be great to serve at birthday parties or kids play dates.

Jolie Ravioli

They have other great flavors like Cheese & Broccoli, Mac & Cheezy and Pizza-Rolis.  The 100% natural ravioli is an excellent source of protein and calcium and there are no trans fats, preservatives, artificial colors or additives.    The teddy bear, car, dinosaur, heart, rocket ship and star shapes are fun for kids and would be great to serve at birthday parties, holiday parties or kid’s play dates.  Try some today with your kids, I am certain they will love them as much as you will!!! Click HERE for a money-saving coupon for your retail store or purchase Jolie Ravioli in their online store along with their other pasta products HERE!  To see if there is a store that carries New York Ravioli & Pasta Company Products click HERE for  a listing.

 

Jolie Ravioli

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New York Ravioli & Pasta Company is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  One lucky blog reader will win 4 bags of Jolie Ravioli!  Thank you to the New York Ravioli & Pasta Company for the review Jolie Ravioli assortment and for sponsoring this delicious giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

New York Ravioli & Pasta Company, Jolie Ravioli Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

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“Denton the Dragon in Tales of Bubbleland” Teaches Children Important Character Building Values Through Stories and Songs!!!

Denton Dragon Logo

Do you worry about the poor values and morals our kids are exposed to?  TV shows, music, performers and celebrities do not always present the kind of values we want to instill in our children.  Jeff Hutchins a father of 2 girls as well as a retired inventor and businessman, is the author of Denton the Dragon in Tales of Bubbleland.  This newly released book was written by Jeff to help parents and teachers teach children universal values like honesty, gratitude and how to treat others who are different.  The book contains 19 character building  stories  aimed at children 4-8 years old.


Bubbleland Collection

The book is available in both home and school editions.  The school edition is made with the teacher in mind and comes in three over-sized, beautifully illustrated storybooks with an 18 week curriculum guide.  Designed to be read aloud to one child or an entire class,  they include the unique ability to show pictures to the children while the text remains visible to the reader.  The home edition is a beautiful hardback book with 19-tales featuring Denton the Dragon and his friends.  Both books were written to help parents and teachers teach character development in a fun and engaging way.

Denton

Children will be captivated by the stories and illustrations while parents and teachers will appreciate the large, easy to read book and the powerful discussions they act as a springboard for.  School editions are perfect for homeschooling moms and dads too!  Denton is a lovable and naive dragon that lives in Bubbleland.   Children are able to  easily relate to Denton and  understand and discuss life lessons based on his silly yet insightful experiences.
Denton dragon

I recently read one of the included stories, Hilwin, the Boy with Wheels.  This story was about differences and Hilwin is a little boy who uses a wheelchair. Denton was curious and through his curiosity we learn about some of the things Hilwin experiences, like people looking at him funny.  In the end it’s less about the ways they are different and more about how much they  have in common that resonates with kids.  The end of the book even includes a way to expand and get children engaged in conversation about the story.  You can download, Hilwin, the Boy with Wheels for free HERE!

 

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A safe entertainment section for kids is coming soon to the website.  The music section of the website features a collection of songs inspired by the Tales of Bubbleand produced by Jeff Hutchins and George Scott and performed and written by singer/songwriters like Billy Jonas, Jane Kramer, Timmy Abell and the Swayback Sisters.  You can check out the song section yourself HERE and even download a free song!!!  You can find Denton The Dragon on Facebook, and Twitter .  Check it out for yourself and leave a comment letting us know what you think!

 

 


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Ticket Giveaway to Top of the Rock Observation Deck, Rockefeller Plaza in NYC & $50 in Spending Money!!!

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If you live in or near New York City or plan to be traveling in the area, we have a great giveaway!  Enter to win 4 tickets to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck  70 floors up at Rockefeller Plaza!  In addition to the tickets the winner will receive $50 spending money so they can go out to dinner, buy souvenirs, use in any of the shops or restaurants in the Plaza or anywhere in Manhattan.  The latter is sponsored by Hudson Park, an apartment complex aiming to attract city dwellers looking for an alternative to expensive Manhattan apartments.

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The observation deck at Rockefeller Center is an amazing location for sightseeing in NYC. Experience breathtaking views, 70 floors up, of Central Park and the gorgeous city skyline. Before or after your visit, walk the Rockefeller Center Plaza, which has some of the best shopping in New York City. Use the $50 provided by Hudson Park to buy yourself something cool or fashionable, or have a wonderful meal with your family or loved ones.  Hudson Park is a complex of Apartments in Yonkers, NY with beautiful views, spacious living, and easy commutes to Manhattan for work or entertainment.

Giveaway for 4 Tickets to The Observation Deck and $50 in Spending Money!!!  To enter use the Rafflecopter widget below.  Prize does not include transportation.  Good Luck!!!

Giveaway for 4 Tickets to The Observation Deck and $50 in Spending Money!!!

 

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Blu-Ray #MovieMagic Giveaway!!!

This Holiday rediscover the #MovieMagic behind your favorite films. Blu-ray offers exclusive special features that put you in the filmmaker’s chair, with a behind-the-scenes access to all of the magic: Special effects, talent interviews, alternative endings, unreleased scenes, bloopers, and more!

With a Blu-ray combo pack, you can enjoy your favorite films in high-definition whenever and wherever you want. You can keep the Blu-ray disc in the living room, DVD in the car, and the digital copy on your phone for when you’re on the move!

Grab your favorite movie lover a Blu-ray this holiday!

Highlights:
• With the combo pack you can take your favorite films wherever you go. You can keep the Blu-ray disc in the living room, DVD for the car, and the digital copy on your mobile phone while on the move!
• Blu-ray lets you to watch your favorite movies with unmatched sound and video that is SIX TIMES the quality of DVDs!
• Blu-ray offers the most premium possible in home entertainment experience
• You don’t have to worry about the buffering that happens with streaming videos

 

Enter our  giveaway  to win one of the following movies (chosen at random from the list below) on Blu-Ray!!!  Open to US Residents.

• The Little Mermaid – Diamond Edition
• The Lone Ranger
• Monsters University
• Angels Rising
• Rise of The Guardians
• Despicable Me 2
• Turbo
• Grown Ups 2
• Wizard of Oz 3D
• The Wolverine
• Star Trek: Into Darkness
• White House Down
• Fast 6
• Pacific Rim
• After Earth
• Man of Steel
• Red 2
• World War Z
• 2 Guns
• Weeds: The Complete Collection
• Predator 3D

Giveaway Rules:

Each household is only eligible to win ONE #MovieMagic Title via blog reviews and giveaways. Only one entrant per mailing address per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you will not be eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

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Mobi AnimaLamp, Cool-Running Animal LED Kid’s Light Review & Giveaway!!! #HolidayGiftGuide

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Cute, functional, safe and sturdy are how I would describe The AnimaLamp from Mobi Technologies.  The LED light comes in adorable animal styles and the cool-running LED lights provide great light for reading, to use at a desk, for travel or just anywhere.  The lights are rechargeable and have an easy button for one touch on and off or brightness control.  These lights make the perfect gift for the little ones on your holiday gift list.  Mommy Ramblings loves our Monkey and Giraffe AnimaLamps so much we are adding the Mobi AnimaLamp to our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide!!!

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Who says children and wild life can’t play together? Mobi introduces AnimaLamps, the cool-running LED light that’s great for desktop, late night changing table and feeding, reading in bed, games, and playtime. Portable and solidly built, AnimaLamps can go anywhere. Adjustable brightness, one-touch operation and built-in rechargeable battery makes it the perfect light for children. Caution: we’ve heard reports of parents stealing AnimaLamps from  the nursery. Do your kids a favor- buy one of your own!

TRIPLE AWARD WINNER – AnimaLamps has been awarded Mom’s Choice Gold, NAPPA Gold and National Parenting Center Seal of Approval awards.
  • Portable Desk/Security Night Light
  • Great for late night changing table
  • Just the right amount of light for night feeding
  • Safe for reading in bed
  • Backseat travel light
  • Sturdy enough for games & playtime
  • Touch Adjustable Brightness Control
  • Up to 8-12 hours per charge

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Mobi is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!  One lucky blog reader will win their own Mobi AnimaLamp!  Thank you Mobi for the review light and for sponsoring this bright giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

Mobi, AnimaLamp  Cool-Running LED Kid’s Light Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter widget below.  Good Luck!!!

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