review Archives - MomStart

Kid Reviewer Miitopia Nintendo 3DS Game Walk Through

August 17, 2017 by Momstart 2 Comments

As part of the Nintendo Kid Reviewer program, Zoe and Miles are on their own. This is their thoughts on the Nintendo 3DS video game Miitopia.

By Miles Bishop:

Miitopia is a really fun game to play something that I like about the game is that there are a lot of customizations for the characters to choose from. The farther into the game that you get you can build your mii warriors’ relationships between each other. Another feature I like about the game is that you can choose the entire mii cast with your own miis.

Miles also created a video for us:

By Zoe Bishop:

Miitopia is fun game, but I don’t like that I had to delete my brothers game to start my own game. When you play, you can only have one game going at a time, so when it was my turn to play I had to just use his game. The boss levels are sort of hard and you only get to create four characters. I like the characters and that you get to customize them and their outfits I wish the outfits weren’t so expensive in the game. I like the raffle tickets and how you get to win things for your characters but how does that relate to the game otherwise?

Questions About Miitopia

What is your favorite game feature?

Zoe: the costumes

Miles: My favoriate game feature is how hard the enemies are

What is your least favorite game feature?

Zoe: the bad guys are to hard

Miles: I don’t know if I have one

What is your favorite character?

Zoe: the character I make

Miles: My favorite character is me and the mage

What does this game make you think of or remind you of?

Zoe: nothing

Miles: doesn’t really remind me of anything

Would you recommend this game?

Zoe: yes

Miles: Totally!

Zoe is 10 and Miles is 9.

LiquiSlim 24 Crave-Curbing Cherry Water Drop Giveaway

August 16, 2017 by Momstart 60 Comments

This is a sponsored post with LiquiSlim 24.

One of the hardest part of dieting is that feeling of being hungry. I remember when I started my current diet, I was starving, or felt like I was and it was because I was just craving carbs. My body had to learn how to be satisfied with the changes I was making. I had no idea there was LiquiSlim 24 Crave-Curbing Cherry Water Drops that might help me out.

LiquiSlim 24 is made with two ingredients proven to help diminish carb cravings, control blood sugar levels and promote a healthier and happier lifestyle. These two ingredients are:

Satiereal Saffron: Saffron is a spice commonly used in cooking and traditional health remedies. Research on saffron has involved many clinical trials that suggest the spice helps in regulating mood and improving symptoms of depression, which in some cases can lead to overeating and heavy snacking. An informative article on benefits of saffron: https://www.verywell.com/health-benefits-of-saffron-extract-89511
Chromium Picolinate: Chromium picolinate (Chromax CrPic) has received much attention as a dietary supplement because good dietary sources of chromium are scarce and intake is generally low. Studies have shown chromium picolinate’s ability to help diminish carb cravings, control blood sugar levels and reduce several symptoms of atypical depression, including mood swings and stress eating. An informative article on benefits of chromium: https://www.drweil.com/vitamins-supplements-herbs/supplements-remedies/chromium/

LiquiSlim 24Benefits:

avoid rebound weight

curbs hunger

improves mood

great taste

I’ve heard that Saffron was good for you in this way before. We have a very special giveaway for you. You can win 2 bottles of LiquiSlim 24 and a 21 oz water bottle to try the LiquiSlim 24. And a $25 VISA GC

To Enter:

Tell me what your health goals are

Extra entries:

Use the rafflecopter

Extra Entries:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Must Have: Bluetooth Speaker Vanity Mirror

August 15, 2017 by Momstart 1 Comment

Sample received:

Zoe loves her new make up mirror, a Bluetooth Speaker Vanity Mirror. Her new mirror is from iHome. They recently launched the latest in its line of popular Bluetooth Speaker Vanity Mirrors, the iCVBT2, with Built-in Siri and Google Voice, which is available for purchase online and in-store now, for $79.99.

She loves it so much she made a video of the Bluetooth Speaker Vanity Mirror for our holiday gift guide. The Bluetooth Speaker Vanity Mirrors, the iCVBT2, is now available for purchase online and in-store at Bed, Bath and Beyond and Amazon.com for $79.99.

What we loved about this vanity mirror is that it was so easy to hook up to the phone and start using Siri. We connected Zoe’s phone and played some music and thought the speakers were of great quality. Zoe loves that she can plug her phone into it for charging while she is getting ready in front of her new mirror. She also loved that it came with a cleaning cloth because her brother touched it right away and left huge fingerprint smudges.

I like how easy the mirror is to use. I think it’s a great holiday gift idea. The iCVBT2 is the latest addition to iHome’s popular Vanity Speaker line which also includes the iCVBT7 portable, rechargeable 9-inch double-sided Vanity Mirror with 7x magnification, and a 6-inch double-sided Vanity Mirror, the iCVBT5. The ICVBT2 features a sleek new flat-panel design with a distortion-free mirror and multiple LED lighting options, consumers can listen to music, take phone calls and charge their mobile phones—all under the perfect lighting and reflection conditions for a flawless makeup application.

Features of the iCVBT2 Vanity Mirror:

7″ x 9″ flat panel mirror
Mirror accent LED lighting
Distortion free mirror
Bluetooth audio with speakerphone
Built in mic supports Siri or Google Now voice assistant
1 Amp USB charging port for mobile devices
100V-240V universal AC adaptor and cleaning cloth included
Weight: 1.61 lbs/0.73 kg
Available in Black and White

Meal Subscription Box: Dinnerly Everything You Need To Cook

August 8, 2017 by Momstart 6 Comments

Weeknight cooking gets mundane sometimes as we get set on cooking the same things over and over again. Of course I could look up recipes but sometimes it’s about what’s in the pantry because I don’t want to go to the store. That’s just two of the reasons why I love having dinner meal kits sent to our house. These Meal Subscriptions box kits are perfect for our family needs. We recently received a meal kit from Dinnerly and Zoe did a box opening so you can see everything that we received in our first box.

Another reason I love these subscription meal box kits is because it gives us a chance to cook together or for Zoe to cook on her own. Zoe loves cooking and what I love about Dinnerly is that everything comes pre-measured and with easy to follow directions. Zoe was able to make a dinner and there was hardly any mess and under 30 minutes. Each box seems to come with three different meals. You pick how often you want the boxes and you can always put it on hold. You don’t have to get a box every week. You can choose between a couple box that feeds two adults for 38.99 and a family box that feeds four adults for 68.99.

My husband and I are on a KETO diet so I adjusted the recipes to work for us. Using our box, we made burgers one night with the beef and home made potato chips.

We also made Sausage Pasta. For my husband and I, we omitted the pasta. It was delicious.

But I think our favorite recipe was the Chicken Chili recipe. OMG, this was amazing and even my kids who are picky about chicken gobbled this up.

DINNERLY is the first affordable meal kit delivery service to send all the fresh ingredients to cook weeknight dinners for just $5 per serving! With most kits being around $10 per serve, this represents a big weekly saving for families who love the convenience of meal kits. I love this price point.

Dinnerly targets those that want to cook but don’t want a lot of hastle. They keep the price down by having fewer ingredients keeping the recipes simple. They also have digital recipe cards verses printing up full color cards keeping costs down per box. Dinnerly is currently on the West Coast including California, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Utah and Idaho with expected expansion by end of 2017.

DINNERLY will send quality ingredients like antibiotic free chicken and free range ground beef to make delicious family-friendly meals like turkey burgers with sweet potato fries, or a Harissa pan roasted chicken that will satisfy even the fussy eaters!

5 Walkie-Talkie Adventures

August 7, 2017 by Momstart 1 Comment

We received samples.

This summer we have been having a blast using the green camouflage AVALID walkie talkie for kids on Amazon. The AVALID Walkie Talkies have a high quality and affordable price, it’s not only kids toy, but also perfect product while hiking, camping, gardening, hanging in a hotel, playing games in the neighborhood, etc. And that’s exactly what we’ve been doing. We have 5 Walkie Talkie Uses for you to enjoy this summer or anytime on a family adventure or not.

Watch Zoe’s video where she talks about how we are using the Walkie Talkie: 5 Walkie Talkie Uses:

AVALID Walkie Talkies for kids, 22 Channel FRS/GMRS Long Range 5KM Two-Way Radios with Free Straps, Ultra-Long Standby/Back-lit LCD Screen Radio Walkie for Indoor/Outdoor Activities (Pair,Green Camo)

- The AVALID Advantage: Join the “AVALID Families” for great support with full knowledge and community, when you need, we rush to you
- Small & Exquisite: 10 kinds of ringtones, fashion and lovely, small size and light-weight make it convenient to carry around. It is the best gift for children
- New Design: 22 channels with PMR system. Situation can be real-time monitoring of children so that gaining the effect of active anti-lost
- Great Sound Quality: Clear and loud sound quality with electronic volume adjustment, auto squelch, is up to 5 km talk range in open field. And you can get the crisp sound even in crowded places
- Reliable & Safety: No radiation, no signal disturbance since the transmitting power is below 0.5W (civil safety frequency). Durable and environmentally-friendly material is very safe for kids

5 Walkie Talkie Uses:

1. Hanging out in a hotel:

These work so well even in buildings. We were staying in a hotel and I left one of my kids on the fifth floor and took the other kid to the first floor. He wanted to be in the entertainment room and kids were not allowed in there unattended. So I used the walkie talkies to keep up with the kid left in the room. They worked quite well.

2. Hiking or Walking:

We have also used them in the neighborhood and on walks/hikes. I recently went on a hike before I received these walkie talkies and my son went with a different group on the hike. Because we went on different trails he finished before I did and I was terrified. I decided from then on that I wasn’t going to be on a hike unless either stayed by my side the entire time, or if he had a way to communicate with me. Now this is the only way to go on a hike.

3. Games in the neighborhood:

The kids in the neighborhood all have different walkie talkies but the nice thing about a walkie talkie is that they can all get on different or the same channels and all be able to communicate with each other. They have been playing all kinds of different games.

4. Amusement Park:

Keeping up with kids at the amusement park or at a state fair is really hard. Plus I’m of the old school type where I really think that kids need to explore some on their own. I love the idea of keeping an eye on them but letting them think they have some freedom and the walkie talkies are better than letting them get a phone.

5. Camping:

Camping is another way to let kids be kids. Kids need to be able to explore and while on the camp ground you can let them walk around or go to the playground. Then when dinner is ready and they might be out of ear shot or you don’t want to yell just use that walkie talkie to find them.

Period Underwear: Knixteen #ShutUpPeriod – Knixwear launches Knixteen

August 7, 2017 by Momstart 2 Comments

This is a partnered post with Knixwear. Makers of KnixTeen. Knixwear, the leading brand of active intimates reinventing women’s underwear, launched of the first line of leakproof period underwear designed specifically for teens.

We just found a pair of underwear that my daughter loves. My daughter hasn’t had her first period yet but we are expecting it any time now. She’s as prepared as she can be. She’s learned about her body, we’ve talked about different hygiene products and now she has this amazing pair of underwear that are perfect for those little accidents or slips we sometimes have in-between trips to the bathroom.

She wants like 10 more pairs because of how comfortable they are alone! The Knixteen brand and line of products will offer the same performance, technology and protection as its top-selling adult counterpart. The brand features two styles of black leakproof, seamless panties – a boyshort and a bikini cut that absorb the equivalent of two regular tampons and provide back up protection and peace of mind for teens.

For the launch of this new product Knixwear created a serious of videos that use humor to encourage girls to face their periods head-on. They all use the hashtag #ShutUpPeriod and can be seen here! We’ve decided to share one of them below!

Everything about Knixteen has been developed with input from teen girls themselves. Born from a culture of listening, Knixwear uncovered a need amongst the underserved youth demographic after seeing the success of its line for women. Even the ‘Oh-No’ Proof Underwear packaging, a reusable pouch, is perfect for use as a period emergency kit, a pencil case or make-up bag. The pouch also comes with instructions that explain how it can be reused as a heating pad to help combat period cramps.

My daughter loves the collection of things that came with the underwear also. She really feels ready and I can’t wait to updated this post with how they work and how she feels after she has her period. For now, I’m probably going to be purchasing her another pair or two just because of how much she loves how they feel on.

Guy Stuff: The Body Book For Boys

August 7, 2017 by Momstart Leave a Comment

Earlier this year we shared with you a “sex ed” or body book for boys and girls that’s a really great option for teaching your children all they need to know about their bodies. When I was talking to my friends about it, they said that the American Girl makes a great body book for girls too. They even told me that since Zoe has already seen this other book, that getting her the second American Girl book would be the next place for her to go to learn. Now for my son, we haven’t even found that first book that he’s willing to read so I’m excited to see that tomorrow American Girl will have a new book for boys: Guy Stuff: The Body Book For Boys.

Building on their trusted partnership with parents and the phenomenal success of The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Girls series (nearly 6 million sold to date), Guy Stuff tackles everything boys need to know about their developing bodies and minds-from healthy eating, bad breath and shaving to pubic changes, moodiness and expressing emotions. Written by Dr. Cara Natterson, board-certified pediatrician, NY Times bestselling author of AG’s Care & Keeping of You series, and mom of a 12-year-old son and 14-year-old girl, tackles every subject in a down-to-earth and approachable manner that will help spark conversations between parents and their sons, including those most reluctant to talk about what they’re going through! I’m really hoping this book makes a difference for my son.

Guy Stuff, priced at $12.99, is a head-to-toe guide, covering a wide range of physical and emotional topics, including:

« Body Basics: Breaks down basic facts about boys’ bodies and explains the common changes of puberty (“You Will: Grow taller, sprout hair, sweat more, develop muscles, see changes in skin and hair texture, get a deeper voice, see changes to private parts, and experience new emotions.”) and discusses the importance of establishing healthy habits and having a good attitude.

« Heads Up: This chapter covers everything boys need to know to keep their heads and face in tip-top shape, including hair care, acne, sun protection, and oral hygiene.

« Reach: Explains the essentials of nail care and maintaining healthy hands, underarm hair and controlling body odor, plus breaks down the changes boys’ chests will undergo.

« Belly Zone: Acknowledges that bodies come in different shapes and sizes, and shares detailed information on healthy hydration, food, nutrition, and essential vitamins and minerals.

« Big Changes: Tackles changing hormones, private parts (including erections), moods, and voice.

« Get Going: Covers legs, height and growing pains, feet, fitness and exercise, sport safety, the importance of good sleep, and even bed-wetting.

« Your Inner You: This section delves into new feelings and emotions boys may be experiencing during puberty, including topics on peer pressure and bullying, plus letting guys know that it’s not only okay, but healthy, to express their emotions.

Just Hatched in Time For Summer!

August 3, 2017 by Jaime 1 Comment

Sample provided for review.

I love bath and other pampering kinds of body products; you should see my collection of lotions 😉

When Just Hatched reached out recently about trying some of their Mom and Baby products, I couldn’t pass it up!

I hadn’t previously been familiar with the Just Hatched brand, and discovered it was born of a Mom’s desire to find better products for her kids (and herself) that didn’t contain harsh and harmful ingredients.

Boy, am I happy I know about them now. Just Hatched products contain, “No Yucky Stuff”, such as Parabens, Sulphates, Gluten (I was surprised to learn that a lot of beauty products contain gluten!) and are NEVER tested on animals.

We received the Sleepy Baby Wash, Sleepy Baby Lotion, TLC Nursing Balm, and TLC Stretch Marks & Scar Gel.

I was excited to use the Baby Wash and Lotion right away, but hesitated because the packaging on the Wash didn’t specify whether it was “tear-free’ like a lot of other products I’d seen. So, I reached out to the company to ask, and they promptly responded:

“Tear free is a term used by companies to promote their products, but this term does not guarantee that there will be no tears or irritation from the product. What it really means is that milder, more gentle ingredients are used, and there’s less chance for tears and irritation…

Just Hatched does not say tear free, but is tear free, i.e. the ingredients used are among the mildest and most gentle available.

However, remember that even water can be irritating, if you get it in the eyes!

I hope this helps :)”

How great is that?! And, I can attest that we’ve been using it since and haven’t had any tears 🙂

What we have had is a delicious smelling child with soft skin. Just Hatched uses natural plant extracts such as, coconut, tapioca, orange flower, chamomile and lavender. I love the consistency and subtle scent of the lotion so much that I’ve even been using it for me!

The TLC Nursing Balm and Stretch Mark & Scar Gel are wonderful staples for any new Mom, and knowing that these are made using the most soothing and effective extracts, like shea butter, calendula, licorice root and aloe vera, brings peace of mind in the midst of parenting.

One last thing to highlight is that Just Hatched products are SO affordable!! You can break the bank buying pricey creams, lotions, and cleansers for yourself and Baby, but you don’t need to. Most of the Lotions and Baby Washes from Just Hatched are under $6! Not only are they all- natural, using “no yucky stuff”, they smell delicious and are affordable. I’d call that a win-win-win..uh, WIN!

I’d encourage anyone looking for some great bath and body products, or even a gift for a new Mom-to-Be to check out Just Hatched.

Disney Princess Subscription Box by Pley

August 2, 2017 by Momstart 1 Comment

We received samples.

I’m a huge fan of subscription boxes as gifts. Subscription boxes are a great way for the gift to continue all year round, plus everyone loves to get mail. It’s just fun to meet the delivery man with something to open. This past month we received our first box from Pley. Pley has a few different subscription boxes one of them being the Disney Princess subscription box.

There was a drawing kit.

A book with the story and coloring pages.

Zoe loved everything that was inside the Disney Princess Subscription box as you can see from the video she created.

Pley is the leading monthly toy delivery service. With Pley, you get toys that kids love and inspire creativity. Each month depending on which subscription box you pick, you’ll receive a monthy mystery box. The Disney Princess box tells a story, includes 4-6 Princess figurines, accessories & Goodies to keep. This box is recommended for ages 5-9 and is sure to bring the princess out of anyone opening the box.

The smile the Disney Princess Subscription box will put on a little girl’s face is priceless.

About Pley:

Pley makes it possible for families to delight their children with the toys they love, conveniently delivered to their door.

As a socially responsible company, Pley donates toys to underprivileged children and is a Benefit Corporation with higher standards to benefit our customers, society and the environment.

LG Smart Fridge: LG Instaview Refrigerator

July 31, 2017 by Momstart Leave a Comment

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

I think that houses are getting smarter and smarter, including smart refrigerators like the LG Smart Fridge: LG Instaview Refrigerator. Remember when all you used a refrigerator for was keeping your items cold or cool? Now you can do so much more with your fridge.

LG’s InstaView™ Door-in-Door® refrigerators’ tinted glass panel lets you knock twice to view and select items without opening the door. This is a great feature because when you are undecided about what you want out of the fridge you have to open the door and peer in. Then while the door is open you lose a degree and your fridge had to work harder to cool back down.

Another thing that is important to me with a fridge is how you can organize your food and what you use most. This fridge has a door-in-door feature. This fridge is very energy efficient with the instaview and the door in door feature. Both keep cool air from escaping. And the ColdSaver™ Panel reduces cold air loss to extend the freshness of food.

There are two other features that are interesting for the LG Instaview Refrigerator. It has a distinctive styling with fingerprint resistant sleek design and that tinted glass panel. There is also a Variety of large capacity models that give you ample space and keep food conveniently organized and within reach.