Design and Build Quality: As I mentioned, the French door design is a game changer. It makes it so much easier. Just pull one side open and the other side opens as well. The stainless steel exterior is also cool looking and it’s easy to wipe down to keep clean. The digital controls on the front panel are intuitive and user-friendly.

Cooking Performance: The Gourmia French Door Digital Air Fryer Oven truly does a great job in its cooking capabilities. The powerful air circulation system ensures that food is cooked evenly and to perfection. Whether I’m air frying, baking, roasting, or toasting, the results are consistently impressive. I made a delicious piece of salmon recently and I was surprised how well it worked when I hit the seafood button. However, to properly toast a piece of bread, you will need to adjust the settings. Hit the toast button and turn the temp to 4, for a perfectly toasted slice. The adjustable temperature and time settings did help me customize each cooking session according to my preferences. So far I’ve made a lemon dill salmon and roasted green beans.

Versatility: The Gourmia French Door Digital Air Fryer Oven comes with a baking tray, crumb tray, and air fry basket. This appliance can handle it all. The French door design also allows for simultaneous cooking on multiple racks, making it a time-saving solution for busy households.

Ease of Cleaning: Cleaning up after cooking can be a hassle, but the Gourmia French Door Digital Air Fryer Oven makes the process painless. The non-stick interior coating makes it easy to wipe away any residue, and the removable crumb tray ensures that any crumbs or spills are caught and can be easily disposed of. The accessories are dishwasher safe, further simplifying the cleaning process.

Features:

• Fits an entire 12’’ pizza, 6 slices of toast, or a whole chicken
• “Set it and forget it” with 19 One-Touch Cooking Presets (and yes, these work well)
• Touchscreen makes it easy to adjust time and temperature
• Large window lets you monitor what you’re cooking
• Single-pull French doors open with the pull of one handle
• Capacity: 24L
• Watts: 1700

Conclusion: The Gourmia French Door Digital Air Fryer Oven is a winner in terms of design, performance, and versatility. It has become a go-to appliance in my kitchen, allowing me to prep delicious and healthy meals easily. If you are a newbie air fryer owner or a seasoned one, this is a great choice.

Love air fryer cooking? Grab my new e-book on Amazon! The Starter Air Fryer Cookbook is for new air fryer chefs – home cooks, students, singles, families – basically anyone who has an air fryer. These recipes, by Nancy Horn of The Mama Maven Blog and edited by Raquel Perazzo, are easy and absolutely delicious.

Thank you to Gourmia for providing a sample. All opinions are my own. There are affiliate links in this post.

• Air Fryer Lemon Dill Salmon
• Review: Smart Ones Frozen Meals by Weight Watchers #WW
• Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries Recipe ( & Why You Need an Air Fryer)
• Family Link from Google Helps Teach Kids Good Digital Habits
• Much More than Uniforms: French Toast Clothes are Durable & Versatile (+ 15% Off Coupon)

The post Gourmia French Door Digital Air Fryer Oven Review appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Oh, Instant Pot, let me count the ways that I love you. I’ve owned an Instant Pot Electric Pressure Cooker since 2017 when my brother told me all the delicious things he was able to make for himself. I bought the Instant Pot Duo 6 quart and I love it. This is why you need an Instant Pot – I can make yogurt from scratch, whip up delicious soups, stews and chilis, cook corn on the cob, make foolproof rice, make quinoa perfectly, make egg bites and hard boiled eggs, make one pot dinners for my family and so much more. It’s pretty easy but you have to make sure you leave enough time to get your Instant Pot to pressure! Now, there are other brands of Electric Pressure Cookers, but I prefer the Instant Pot Brand because it works for me.

Our Instant Pot Picks

Instant Air Purification: https://amzn.to/3yNKrRN 

Instant Pot® Duo Crisp (6-Quart):  https://amzn.to/3vFvbDv 

Instant Pot® Duo Crisp (8-Quart):  https://amzn.to/3zKUFmc

Instant Pot® Duo Plus (6-Quart)  https://amzn.to/2UjenoV –

Instant Pot® Pro (6-Quart)  https://amzn.to/3gRWJjI

Instant Pot® Duo Nova (3-Quart) https://amzn.to/3gTGVNx

Instant Vortex (6-Quart)  https://amzn.to/2TRauHA

Instant® Omni Plus (18-Liter) https://amzn.to/3iXIVa5

Instant Vortex Plus (4-Quart):  https://amzn.to/2TNr9M1 

Instant Omni Pro (18-Liter)   https://amzn.to/3gFSx7G 

I rely on my Instant Pot for almost every meal — some part of it is made in it. It’s easy to use and cleans up so easily. Make sure you have an extra sealing ring on hand and change them out frequently. Foods you may make stay in that seal. Some people soak theirs in vinegar, but I prefer to leave them out on a hook in my kitchen and air them out.

And for the steam vent — you do not have to be afraid of it. When you turn your Instant Pot on, make sure to turn your steam vent to sealing, away from venting. If you are doing a quick release of your Instant Pot, make sure to use a silicone Lobster Claw mitt or a silicone mitt and then step away to let the steam out. I’ve owned my Instant Pot for 4 years and I’ve never had a problem.

Different Models of Instant Pots have different functions, so use this handy chart to figure out which one is the best one for you.

Rice!

I’ve mentioned before that I have problems making rice on my stovetop – however, by using the Instant Pot, I can easily make brown rice or my fave, brown basmati rice. This rice comes out so beautifully in your instant pot. Use veggie or chicken broth for extra flavor! All you need is around 30 minutes and two ingredients to get this on your table.

https://www.themamamaven.com/how-to-make-brown-basmati-rice-in-the-instant-pot/

My Instant Pot Recipes:

Salsa Chicken is a family favorite – I love making it with non-spicy verde salsa.
And I serve it Taco Bar Style – it can totally be healthy, make salsa verde chicken and then add tortillas, cheese, guacamole and veggies. 

https://www.themamamaven.com/clean-eating-instant-pot-salsa-verde-chicken-keto-low-carb-friendly/

Steaming crab legs in your instant pot is so easy and delicious. Your family will be so thrilled for this dinner.

https://www.themamamaven.com/instant-pot-alaskan-snow-crab-legs/

And yes, you can make a quick chicken soup in your Instant Pot. Here’s how.

https://www.themamamaven.com/making-chicken-soup-in-the-instant-pot/

This chicken with sweet potato soup is an easy and delicious dinner. It’s also gluten free and Whole 30 compliant.

https://www.themamamaven.com/chicken-sweet-potato-and-kale-soup-instant-pot-recipe/

Instant Pot Accessories

Extra Sealing Rings https://amzn.to/3vKAFwQ

Yogurt Cups and Sterilization Rack – yes, making yogurt in your Instant Pot is life changing. https://amzn.to/2ShtGOr

Silicone Mitts and Accessories https://amzn.to/3xFeae4

I hope I’ve convinced you why you need an Instant Pot!

So, which Instant Pot are you getting on Prime Day?

The post Why You Need an Instant Pot appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

My husband and I love our coffee (even though we do try to stick to 1-2 cups a day). After owning many coffeemakers over the years, we have found one that we plan on sticking to – Hamilton Beach’s BrewStation 12 Cup Coffeemaker. You can make anything from 1 cup of coffee to 12 cups so easily! You just press the bar to dispense your java when you’re ready to. I’m going to tell you how it works for my family and I’ve got a great giveaway at the end of this post.

My husband is not a fan of a single serve coffeemakers and prefers a drip coffee machine. I’m a little more easygoing, but there just must be coffee. So we found Hamilton Beach’s BrewStation line a few years ago and are very happy. After a little incident with a blown out outlet (our building’s wiring), we needed to replace the BrewStation and we knew exactly what we wanted, another BrewStation. Hamilton Beach graciously provided a sample of the newest version of the BrewStation so we could try it out and see if it was better than the one we previously had. They’ve upgraded it over the one we had and we love this version even more! Every single product we have from Hamilton Beach always works well and we know this is a brand we trust. I think you will love Hamilton Beach’s BrewStation 12 Cup Coffeemaker just as much as we do.

To Use the Hamilton Beach BrewStation 12 Cup Coffeemaker

It’s so simple to use – take out the removable water reservoir and fill how many cups of coffee you want (in 8 oz servings), then open the top part (which is also removable) and put your filter in. Then add your grounds. Turn on the BrewStation and press a button to get your coffee (choose from regular, bold, or 1-4 cups). You can even set it to turn on in the morning! I like that you can use the BOLD setting to get a stronger brew or use the iced coffee setting to make my fave, iced coffee.
With no carafe, you can keep things – no pouring or breaking a glass carafe (I’ve broken several). Also, no burnt coffee flavor. And the best thing? It’s around $54 for this. Score!

Iced Coffee Setting

For the iced coffee setting (which is pretty smart) you only put 6 cups of water in the removable water reservoir, then fill the coffee tank with ice, then place filter in the brew basket (in either a paper filter or a reusable coffee filter). Then add up to 12 scoops of coffee (if you are using 6 cups of water). The filter basket should not touch the ice in the tank. Select Iced Coffee, turn on warming settings to zero. Fill your cup full of ice and then add your newly made iced coffee to your cup. Then thank your coffeemaker for making you be able to function properly.

Features:

• 12 cup dispensing coffeemaker
• No Carafe needed- 12 cup dispenses coffee without a carafe
• The removable water reservoir makes filling easy
• Brews a full 12 cups and dispenses one fresh cup at a time
• Enclosed brewing system with internal heater keeps coffee hot and fresh for up to 4 hours

Buy Hamilton Beach BrewStation here: https://rstyle.me/+6nnoTH9lw5_QL2gqsAAbsA.

And if you really want to make a single serving of coffee, Hamilton Beach offers the Scoop Coffeemaker. You can make exactly one cup of coffee.

Get it here: https://amzn.to/3wlVrnd

Related Posts:

• Review: Chike Iced High Protein Coffee
• Joovy Scooter Stroller Review
• Review: Baby Brezza One Step Food Maker
• Lighter Coffee Frappe (WW Friendly)
• A Protein Coffee Drink?

The post Hamilton Beach BrewStation 12 Cup Coffeemaker Review appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

We’re a few weeks into the New Year and my kids just informed me that they need new sneakers. Again. Luckily I have the perfect solution — there is sale and you can get up to 50% off select styles from Finish Line at Macys.com!

Sale Details are as this — Get up to 50% Off Select Styles from Finish Line at Macy’s – Sale Dates: 1/19/20 – 1/25/20

For my daughter, I found these cute Adidas Big Girls’ X-PLR Casual Athletic Sneakers from Finish Line. The pink color is super cute and I just know she’s going to love wearing them for gym class at her school.

These kicks have a plush EVA foam midsole and an elastic speed lacing system which means she can get them on quickly for volleyball games.

Features:

• Breathable mesh upper design
• Textile lining with OrthoLite® sockliner
• Elastic speed lacing system
• Reflective 3-Stripes and heel strap
• EVA foam midsole
• Style no. BY9880
• Kids’ athletic footwear from Finish Line
• Synthetic upper; rubber sole

For my younger son, I found these Nike Big Boys’ Tanjun Casual sneakers. They will be great for any activity he does throughout his busy day. Tanjun actually means simplicity in Japanese. These sneakers are simple, but clean, modern and comfortable.

Meaning “simplicity” in Japanese, the Big Boys’ Tanjun sneakers from Nike takes a simple aesthetic to premium new levels. Modern and comfortable, these sneakers have a clean look for everyday.

Features

• Flexible, breathable upper
• Injected unit-sole for cushioning without bulk
• No-sew upper
• Durable midsole/outsole design
• Textile upper; Rubber sole

For my older son I found these awesome red Adidas Boys Originals ZX Flux Casual Sneakers. The bold red color is hot and they are both sleek and modern, as well as a little retro. These casual sneakers are cool for my almost high schooler and so comfy.

Features

• Virtually seamless upper
• TORSION midfoot technology for support
• Mesh lining
• TPU heel cage
• Synthetic and nubuck upper; rubber sole

So, what sneakers catch your eye? Don’t miss this great sale at Finish Line at Macys, where you can get up to 50% off! Sale Dates: 1/19/20 – 1/25/20

#FinishLineAtMacys

The post Get Up to 50% off select styles from Finish Line at Macys.com appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

I’m trying to make sure I make my new year as active as I can. Having the right sneakers to exercise in is definitely part of that. While I’m sure you’ve started your resolution list, have you done anything to get started on it? I’ve got a solution! Get started on your New Year’s resolutions by getting 40% off Select Nike Styles from Finish Line at Macy’s from December 22 to December 28. Because they are having such great deals on Nike’s at Macys, make sure to snap up a pair or two (or three). This includes many different Nike styles for men, women, and kids. You’ll thank me when you’re ready to start your new routines and have the perfect kicks to do them with.

One of the styles I’m look at is the Women’s Air Max Torch 4 Running Sneakers from Finish Line. It’s great for anything from training to everyday where. These sneakers deliver foot cushioning and lots of support. The visible Max Air unit in the heel absorbs shock and there’s a breathable upper design which ventilates your feet. I love the bright color and the rubble sole with a waffle traction pattern – makes it so grippy on a variety of surfaces and terrains.

Features include:

• Breathable mesh upper design with TPU overlays for added support
• Visible Max Air unit in the heel for maximum cushioning and shock absorption
• Phylon foam midsole in the forefoot offers added cushioning without bulk
• Rubble sole with waffle traction pattern for stellar grip over a variety of surfaces
• Enhanced visibility thanks to reflective details

Another sneaker I’m crushing on is the Nike Women’s Roshe One Casual Sneakers from Finish Line. I love the cherry color and the thick sole. The Roshe is a must for running around town, travel, and casual exercising. And who couldn’t use a stylish reason to get their step count up, right?

Features include:

• Breathable synthetic and textile upper
• Minimal aesthetic for a bulk-free feel
• Phylon and EVA foam underfoot for cushioning without added bulk
• Waffle pattern on the sole for traction on a variety of surfaces

I’m also crushing on these Women’s Gold Explore Strada Running Sneakers from Finish Line. The color is so on trend and I’ll wear them everywhere. I love the thick sole, which can handle a run on the hard streets of my town.

Features include:

• Woven dual-tone fabric upper is dimensional for a classic look
• Foam midsole and outsole for cushioned comfort
• Multilayer eye stay construction locks you in for a secure fit
• Comfort sockliner is lightweight and breathable
• Padded tongue and collar for comfort
• Patterned outsole offers traction and grip

So, which ones are you going to pick up? I plan to get all three! Get 40% off Nike Styles from Finish Line at Macy’s!

#FinishLineAtMacys

The post Get Started on Your New Year’s Resolutions By Getting 40% off Select Nike Styles at Macy’s appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

My daughter has a big event this week at her school. Trouble is, she’s not feeling that great and I’m afraid if she doesn’t get better she’s going to miss it. We’re not sure if it’s just a cold or something more serious. She stayed home from school earlier in the week and then felt sick again. She commutes to school and by the time she gets home, it’s too late to make it to her pediatrician. Plus the last thing she wants to do is run and wait to be seen at an Urgent Care. So, what’s a modern parent to do? They use Amwell, the nation’s largest telehealth company.

Amwell which connects patients to board-certified, licensed doctors for immediate and live, online visits—day or night, on either mobile or desktop. And yes, this is perfect to also use with kids — stay out of those germy doctor waiting rooms! Keep reading-  we’ve got an exclusive discount for Amwell! 

With Amwell, patients can speak to doctors about minor illnesses or injuries, general questions, prescription refills, chronic condition management — anything that they would normally talk to a doctor about. On Amwell’s site, you can connect with primary care and specialist physicians, as well as licensed behavioral therapists and registered dietitians.

And the best part, Amwell doctors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and are dedicated to keeping you healthy  — all from the comfort of your home. It’s a smart thing to do in this day and age.

So what I did to help my daughter is I got on Amwell’s website (there’s also an app if you prefer to use your smartphone or tablet) and logged in. I chose a pediatric urgent care setting and connected to a doctor. My daughter didn’t have a fever, but her throat hurt and she felt very run down. After I put in her vitals (weight) and health info, we were connected with an emergency room physician for a video chat. The Doctor asked us questions and discussed my daughter’s symptoms with her and I. I felt that she was really being taken care of, right in the warmth and privacy of our own home.

As a parent, I am famous for neglecting my own health because things are just too busy for me to stop and take care of myself. I know I’m not alone in this right? Amwell is also good for me. I haven’t always taken care of myself in the past.mwell: A Doctor Visit is Just a Quick Video Chat Away

I remember that one time I had to beg my child’s pediatrician to give me antibiotics because we were at his office and I knew that I wouldn’t get a chance to go see my own doctor. Another time I had to choose between my eardrums popping or taking care of my then 7-month daughter, who had a very different reaction to a cold — her cheek massively swelled up. Of course, I chose her and sure enough, my eardrums popped. Ouch. But using Amwell is a much smarter idea.

Ease of use

It’s very easy to use Amwell. In fact, I was able to register and get set up really quickly and painlessly. Just go to their website, register for an account, select any health issues you would like to let the doctor know about, check your video settings, and then pick from a list of doctors that are available to chat with. Video chatting a doctor – isn’t technology amazing?

How It Works

Even though I have a fairly new laptop, Amwell’s site had me update my software so I could use their video chat platform. It was really easy and walked me through the quick steps.

After you select your doctor (they have profiles so you can see their qualifications), you go into a waiting queue and wait to talk to them. If you don’t want to wait, you can get a text sent when that doctor is ready to see you! What a great idea! Though my wait time was minimal). Then you connect with a doctor and start chatting. Note, make sure your wifi connection is a good one. It can affect video settings.

A chat window will open and then the doctor pops up in a video chat. It was so cool!

I would definitely use Amwell again — it was so amazing to be able to video chat with a doctor from the comfort of my own home. No waiting rooms with someone sneezing all over me or having to get a babysitter so I can go to the doctor!

#getwellwithamwell

The post Amwell: A Doctor Visit is Just a Quick Video Chat Away + Special Discount Code appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Black Friday, otherwise known as the day AFTER Thanksgiving, will be here before we even know it. Keep bookmarking this post because I will be updating the deals as I see them. I’m going to focus on great tech gifts for kids and adults (because that’s pretty much what I plan to buy this year). I plan to group them by store. If you don’t see something you want, comment on this post and let me know what you ARE looking for and I’ll do my best to find you a deal. Cheers!

Instant Pot Deals

Amazon Ultra 6 and 8 Quart, Acc Slim

• Ultra 6 Quart Deal https://amzn.to/2DoYul0
• Ultra 8 Quart Deal https://amzn.to/37II9G5
• Accu Slim Deal https://amzn.to/33w38bw

Walmart has the Duo 6 Quart, Vortex 6 Quart and Ace Blender
Duo 6 Quart https://rstyle.me/+EJOF2D91-JY6j6dHymoFMg
Ace Blender https://rstyle.me/+Sh8ajERuMW2ic972pTd0FQ
Vortex 6 Quart Air Fryer https://rstyle.me/+fVczUeaC403N6irgBx5Gj

Best Buy

Canon – EOS Rebel T7i DSLR Two Lens Kit with 18-55mm and 55-250mm Lenses https://rstyle.me/+waYRWHPV4Ilq-7crZQCbNw
Apple – iPad (Latest Model) with Wi-Fi – 128GB – Space Gray – I just actually picked this up for my daughter’s birthday in December! https://rstyle.me/+XHiMrtNZjwaEu0amd80lrQ
Lenovo – IdeaPad 1 14″ Laptop – AMD A6-Series – 4GB Memory – AMD Radeon R4 – 64GB eMMC Flash Memory https://rstyle.me/+j4Peq_b-qTa_htLkNt8uvg
LG – 55″ Class – LED – UK6090PUA Series – 2160p – Smart – 4K UHD TV with HDR https://rstyle.me/+6hFtswQCMqvrHq6oxZm2WQ

AMAZON

Starting today through Nov 21, customers can shop special deals and deep discounts on top products across fashion, toys and home at Amazon/HolidayDeals.

Plus, customers can opt for even more convenience and have presents gift wrapped and sent directly to loved ones without any hassle, or choose from a variety of festive designed gift cards to Amazon as well as other retailers, restaurants and more just by visiting Amazon.com/giftcards and audible. You can even get a one-time $15 promotional credit when you purchase $50 or more in Amazon Gift cards. Limited to first-time gift card customers.

DEALS

Amazon Fashion: 

o   Save on fall favorites for the family from Amazon Brands, including Amazon Essentials, Goodthreads, and Daily Ritual

o   Save up to 40% on select must have fashion products from Rebecca Taylor, Hugo Boss, and more

o   Save up to 40% on coats from Levi’s, Tommy Hilfiger, and more 

o   Save up to 70% on top watch brands, including 50% off Fossil watches

o   Save 55% on Dearfoams slippers

o   Save up to 40% on Lucky Brand clothing and footwear  

o   Save up to 50% on Carhartt men’s workwear

o   Save up to 40% on women’s party dresses from Dress the Population, Adrianna Papell, and more

o   Save up to 30% on Cole Haan men’s and women’s footwear 

o   Save up to 20% on Sperry footwear

o   Save up to 20% on Hush Puppies footwear 

o   Save 30% on Tommy John underwear

o   Save up to 30% on Burt’s Bees Family Jammies

o   Save up to 30% on The Children’s Place clothing

o   Save up to 30% on Marvel books, clothing, toys and more

Toys & Games:

o   Save up to 30% on holiday toy favorites, including Nerf, Baby Alive and Hasbro Games

o   Save up to 30% on your favorite Funko Pops

o   Save up to 30% on dolls and plush, including Hairdorables, Cry Babies and Hatchimals

o   Save up to 30% on puzzles and family games from Ravensburger

o   Save up to 30% on Marvel toys, apparel, bedding and more

o   Save up to 30% on arts and crafts from Crayola

· Amazon Home: 

o   Save up to 30% on home storage and organization from AmazonBasics and Ravenna Home

o   Save up to 30% on home décor from Rivet and Stone & Beam

o   Save up to 30% on select Classic Brands mattresses and furniture

o   Save up to 30% on select Christopher Knight furniture

o   Save up to 30% on select Leesa mattresses

o   Save 15% or more on select dining, office and bedroom furniture

o   Save on Cricut cutting machines

o   Save up to 20% on LG Stick Vacs

o   Save up to 30% on De’Longhi heaters and coffee machines

o   Save 30% on InstantPot pressure cookers

o   Save up to 30% on Thanksgiving dinner tools from Hamilton Beach

·       Consumer Electronics: 

o   Fire TV Edition Smart TVs starting at just $114.99

o   Save on select Samsung, TCL and Sony TVs

o   Save on headphones from top brands

o   Save on select LG products

o   Save big on Arris routers and modems

o   Save up to 30% on Netgear products

o   Save on Samsung monitors, PCs and tablets

o   Save on SanDisk and WD SSDs

o   Save on Garmin Instinct, Instinct Tac, Fēnix 5 and Quatix5

o   Save big on select Canon and Panasonic camera products

o   Save on select Sharpie and Paper Mate pens

o   Save on select HP printers, including $50 off the HP Tango Printer

o   Save up to 40% on Brother printers

· Smart Home & Home Improvement: 

o   Save up to 30% on select Blueair Air Purifiers

o   Save $80 on a SimpliSafe Wireless Home Security System

o   Save up to 40% on the Ecovacs N79W+ Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

o   Save up to 29% on the D4, D6 and D7 Neato robotic vacuums

o   Save on select TP-Link Wi-Fi Routers

o   Save up to 20% on Moen kitchen and bathroom products

o   Save up to 35% on the Chamberlain MyQ Smart Garage Hub

o   Save $60 on the Firstbuild Sonic Opal Ice Maker

o   Save 20% on select Daewoo Top Mount Refrigerators

o   Save up to 30% on Avalon Water Coolers

o   Save 15% on the NewAir 120 can Beverage Center

· Baby:

o   Save on Disney Baby Mickey Mouse Jack-In-The-Box Musical Baby Toy

o   Save on Lamaze Disney/Pixar Toy Story Jessie Stroller Toy

o   Save on Playgro Stella Unicorn Toy

o   Save on Lamaze Disney/Pixar Jack Jack Stroller Toy

·       Beauty, Health & Personal Care:

o   Get 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service at its best price of the year – 50% off all November long

o   Save up to 35% on household essentials

o   Save up to 30% on baby essentials

o   Save up to 30% on shave and hair care products from top brands

o   Save on the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart Electric, Rechargeable Toothbrush

·       Luxury Beauty:

o   Save on Nanette Lepore Eau-De-Parfum Spray

o   Save on English Laundry Cambridge Knight Eau De Parfum

Lawn & Garden: 

o   Save 30% on Cuisinart grills and accessories

o   Save up to 30% on holiday inflatables from Gemmy

o   More than 15% off select SaluSpa and Bestway inflatable hot tubs

o   Save up to 15% on Oakland Living firepits, outdoor furniture, dining sets, umbrellas, and more

o   Save up to 25% on a Generac pressure washer and select portable inverter generators

o   Save 10% on select outdoor patio furniture sets by Oakville Outdoor

Sports & Outdoors

o   Save up to 25% on Schwinn fitness equipment

o   Save 20% on Blackhawk tactical hunting accessories

o   Save 15% on Primos archery hunting accessories

o   Save up to 20% on Kershaw knives

o   Save $99 on the Fat Cat Original 3-in-1 7-Foot Pockey Game Table

o   Save $5 on TaylorMade TP5x Golf Balls

o   Purchase 2-Dozen Callaway Chromesoft Golf Balls for $70

o   Save 30% on select Stanley products

Get 15% back on Electronics bestsellers on  from 11/1 to 12/22.

Prime Video:

Come back for special deals — Toy Story 4 for $2.99 to rent just expired.

Head over to Amazon.com to shop.

Macy’s

Matching Women’s Merry Pajama Set $19.99 each on sale https://rstyle.me/+2MyMUTBoPy7UV-xtKmlo
Kitchaid 4.5 Qt. Classic Plus Stand Mixer KSM75 https://rstyle.me/+noGm7SiURnqjfLKeIsYdGg

4.5 Qt. Classic Plus Stand Mixer KSM75

This list will be updated from now until Cyber Monday.

The post The Best Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals 2019 appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Amazon has a wide range of Depend products, including new styles and fits. I just got my first Subscribe & Save package with the new style of Depend® Fit-Flex® Underwear. I love the new beautiful blush color.

There are new beautiful designs that still offer the trusted protection I rely on. The material used is fast absorbing for dry, comfortable incontinence protection. The ultra-soft fabric moves with you and it offers maximum absorbency. I always feel more confident going about my daily life and exercising with Depend.

Using Subscribe & Save lets me check off one more thing from my to-do list! I set it up last month, and it’s been one of the easier things in my life lately! Delivery is always discreet, in case you were wondering, with no markings on the outside box to indicate what’s inside.

With everything going on in my house right now (my youngest son just had eye surgery, my two older kids were on vacation and then started school, plus tons of doctor’s appointments), I am really happy to have Depend show up at my door every month from now on!

If you aren’t familiar with Amazon Subscribe & Save, you set up regularly scheduled deliveries and you earn savings from using the program. You select product quantity and set the shipping schedule (can be monthly to every six months).

Before you get your delivery sent to you, you get a reminder email from Amazon showing your item price and any applicable discount for that delivery. You can skip or cancel your scheduled deliveries at any time.

Special Offer: When you order Depend through Amazon Subscribe & Save by October 13^th, you’ll save $6 on your first order and up to 15% off your total order. Amazon Subscribe & Save Makes Stocking up on Depend Easier

Start saving today by signing up here: http://bit.ly/NancyHorn1

The post Amazon Subscribe & Save Makes Stocking up on Depend Easier appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

One thing you may not know about me is that I am HUGE fan of Meatloaf and Jim Steinman. From reading this blog, you would know that I am a huge fan of Broadway musicals. Combine the two and I’m in total heaven. When I heard about Bat Out of Hell The Musical and that it was doing a limited run in NYC until early September, I knew I had to see it. What I didn’t expect is to love the actors and their wonderful voices that really brought Jim Steinman’s vision to life. When I needed tickets, Today Tix came to my rescue and got me and my good friend, S, in seats to see Bat Out of Hell. Bat Out of Hell The Musical + An Easier Way to Get Broadway Tickets

Here’s the story: 

Set in a dystopian universe, Strat, the forever young leader of rebellious gang ‘The Lost’ falls in love with Raven, the beautiful daughter of Obsidian’s tyrannical ruler, in a thrilling rock and roll love story for the ages. The Lost are Freezers, means they are forever stuck at age 18 (important). One of the Freezers is Tink and he’s stuck a little younger and it really bothers him because he’s in love with Strat and Strat doesn’t see him as boyfriend material. Raven is pretty sheltered and is the daughter of Falco, who’s a very bad guy who regularly clashes with The Lost Gang. Sloane is Falco’s unhappy wife and Raven’s mother. She has her own journey during the show. The other main couple in the show are Zahara, who’s in the Lost Gang but also works as a nurse for Falco, and Jagwire. Jagwire is definitely more into Zahara than she is into him. 

This award-winning musical showcases Meat Loaf’s legendary anthems including I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That), Paradise By The Dashboard Light, Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad, Dead Ringer For Love and Bat Out of Hell. In my opinion, one of the best performed song in Bat of Out of Hell was “Objects in the Mirror Appear Closer Than They Are”. I always liked the song, but the way it was performed in the musical just blew me away. 

On that’s own, you would guess that you would love it right? And I did, but the actors and the way they brought the songs to life was just incredible. Growing up, my father would play the album on his cassette tap deck AND he owned the record. Just like Rocky Horror’s Picture Show soundtrack, I knew all the words to the songs and would sing them as we would drive up to my Uncle Bob’s house in Connecticut. Whenever I hear that album, the words just come back to me. Over the years, as I would hear more songs written by Jim Steinman and sung mostly by Meatloaf, the songs would also take root in my heart.

Bat Out of Hell The Musical took the songs I loved and really layered in a lot of emotion. Songs that were solo singles were reworked as duets. Andrew Polec as Strat was mesmerizing – his eyes show such emotion. Christina Bennington as Raven was terrific – you will not think of “Heaven Can Wait” the same way again, the way she sings it so aching beautiful. Bradley Dean played Falco, the villain of the show, who finds redemption. He had such believable chemistry with his on stage wife, Sloane, played by Lena Hall. They really shone with “Paradise By The Dashboard Light”, “Who Needs the Young”, and “What Parts of My Body Hurts the Most”. I honestly can’t wait to see what the two of them do next. Remember the name Danielle Steers – she was also incredible as Zahara and her voice was so emotion-invoking. 

The production is also fresh with use of multimedia — there is a two story set and they use a camerawoman to show the action on the second floor and on the main floor on a large screen and on the set. 

Check out the trailer

Today Tix

The way Today Tix works is this: Check their app or website and pick the show you want. It offers Broadway, popular off-Broadway shows, and special performances at a much more affordable price than most other vendors and it is quick and easy to use. Rather than wasting time figuring out charts and dates, this app (and website) does it all for you and you can even avoid waiting at will call to pick up your tickets. Select your city, then you will see a list of shows, prices and available dates for today or this coming week (it doesn’t work for more advanced dates). You can also do a search by date, type of show and price.

When you select a show you can read a short synopsis, length of show and age recommendation for kids. There’s also a video, address of theater and critics’ reviews. Most importantly, you get a list of available dates and prices. Once you click on a date you can then select the amount of tickets and which part of the theater you’d like to sit (i.e. balcony, orchestra, etc), with the appropriate price. Buy your tickets and then all you have to do is show up and your tickets will be hand-delivered to you outside the theater 30 minutes before the show. You cannot miss the Today Tix rep, it’s the person in a red shirt and they will have your tickets. Bat Out of Hell The Musical, Bat Out of Hell, Jim Steinman, Today Tix, Broadway TicketsBat Out of Hell The Musical + An Easier Way to Get Broadway Tickets

SPECIAL OFFER:
Use code MAMAMAVEN10 for $10 off your first show with TodayTix! *Valid for new TodayTix customers only, valid now through 8/31.

Get tickets here: https://b.todaytix.com/mamamavennyc

All Bat Out of Hell The Musical photos courtesy of batoutofhellmusical.com, used with permission. 

Like this post? Then you’ll like 

BEETLEJUICE Musical on Broadway: It’s A Scarily Good Time!

Review: The Play That Goes Wrong – Hysterically Funny and Perfect for Families

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical on Broadway – Filled with Upbeat Music and High Emotions

The post Bat Out of Hell The Musical + An Easier Way to Get Broadway Tickets appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Blipblox is an innovative synthesizer that’s designed for little hands and features large knobs and buttons to allow very young kids to create electronic music in a way that actually sounds like real music! In fact, some of the features are so complex they make the sound come out like real, professional electronic music. This may be due to the Blipblox’s proprietary algorithm that synthesizes completely unique waveforms. In addition, the Blipblox features a multi-color LED light show that’s synchronized to the music in real-time.

For toddlers, the Blipblox is a fun way to learn basic electronic music-making and they enjoy the lights. I received a sample for review and had my kindergartner play with it. I watched as he tried the different buttons and knobs, (without telling him what they’re for) and he was having a blast discovering the different sounds and enjoying the lights. It was fun as a mom watching him discover a brand-new toy that’s so unique and different from other, more run-of-the-mill toys.

My older kids tried to figure out what the buttons were for (instructions are included) and they started noticing patterns. Kids of all ages get exposed to melody, tempo, oscillators, LFO’s, filters, envelopes and amplifiers. They both like to be challenged so it was nice watching them as they were figuring out the different knobs and buttons. Older kids and adults can click here to watch instructional videos. Blipblox can also be connected to external devices at home, such as MIDI keyboards and drum machines.

To learn more about Blipblox click here. You can purchase the Blipblox on Amazon. Price is $189. 

If buying directly from the website, use coupon code BLIPBLOG19 for a special $20 discount (valid thru Sept. 1, 2019)

We are excited to host a giveaway – one lucky winner will win a Blipbox!

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BlipbloxExplorerChannel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theblipblox/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/theblipblox/

https://www.facebook.com/theblipblox

I was not compensated for this post. I received a sample. This post contains an affiliate link. Kids Can Make their own Electronic Music with Blipblox! 

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a freelance writer and has written for several blogs, including The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for eighteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 12, 10 and 6) and loves finding great products for her family.

The post Kids Can Make their own Electronic Music with Blipblox! appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

My kids were intrigued when they walked through the door. With a huge racetrack, tons of video games, snacks, and a bowling alley, this is perfect for a day out with the kids or fellow adults. It’s also great for birthday parties!

Kids need to be a certain height to use the child karts. There was a handy line to make sure, but the staff will let you try your child in the karts to make sure they fit. There are rules that riders will need to follow, they are posted right next to the track, plus all participants much watch a safety video before they take place. 

Here’s the prices – 1 race is actually plenty of time to really get the full experience. I honestly loved driving my go-kart — it was so fun! When you check in, they give you your race number and then you can make your way over to the track when your race is announced.

I was very impressed at the safety at RPM Raceway. We watched a quick video, we were verbally told the rules, and I felt very safe. Note for kids and adults with sensory issues – you put on a cloth sock cap (clean) and then the helmet. I normally am not sensory and I panicked when I put the helmet on. I had to take it off, fix the sock cap and then put it on again, while taking deep breaths. It is heavy, so keep that in mind. 

We found that we had plenty of time to drive the track and we were very happy with just one race. But if you want even more fun, go for the 2 races. 

Check out my video!

We had such a fun time and after our races we enjoyed the arcade (you use a gift card and put money on it). You can also go bowling! We had such a fun day and we’ll definitely be back again! Fun Day Out with Kids at RPM Raceway + Special Discount Offer

Discount alert! Show the staff at RPM the photo below to get $5 off!

Thank you to RPM Raceway for hosting us for the day. 

The post Fun Day Out with Kids at RPM Raceway Driving Go Karts + Special Discount Offer appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Stuffed animals, bed toys, stuffies, loveys – whatever you call them as a parent, what do you do when that stuffed animal rips and/or gets super gross? Also, what about the all the bacteria that must be on those stuffed animals? Do you swap out the stuffed animals and hope your kid doesn’t notice? Pretend that the stuffed animal went on vacation and throw it out? Keep going through rinse cycles in your washing machine and hope for the best? So, what can you do to keep your child’s stuffed animals clean and in one piece? I recently attended a breakfast event with Lysol, Momtrends, and Mandi Gubler, blogger, DIY expert, and mom, to chat about how we can take better care of our child’s stuffed animals.
 How to Repair and Sanitize Your Child’s Beloved Stuffed Animal

So, what can you do to keep your child’s stuffed animals in decent shape? 

1. Mend:
   Stuffed animals can be mended. While I may not have the sewing skills that I once had, Mandi Gubler showed me some tips on how to easily sew up my daughter’s beloved Llama Unicorn, Blueberry – using a slip stitch. Since Blueberry had a hole in the back, she recommended I take some tape and cover up the stuffing and then sew the outer edges of the fur together. I also asked her about repairing the fabric on the horn. She showed me that a few quick stitches would easily make the horn the way it was. Genius! You can also cover up bigger holes that can’t be fixed by stitches by using fabric patches from old t-shirts. 

   

2. Wash in a Mesh Lingerie Bag:  
   Fragile stuffed animals should be placed in a mesh lingerie bag (this is the one I use). I love these mesh lingerie bags that I even use one for washing my stainless steel straws in my dishwasher!
   

   

3. Wash Stuffed Animals Every Couple of Weeks and Use Lysol Laundry Sanitizer with your Regular Detergent
   
   Mandi Gubler also recommended washing stuffed animals every couple of weeks when you wash the bedding. To get rid of 99.9% of Bacteria, add Lysol Laundry Sanitizer alongside Detergent, as directed, when you do a wash. Lysol® Laundry Sanitizer is a one-of-a-kind product that is safe to use on washable fabric items and kills 99.9% of bacteria that regular detergents may leave behind, when used as directed. Contrary to popular belief, washing laundry (and stuffed animals) with regular detergent and cold water does not kill all bacteria, including harmful bacteria that may cause skin infections like staph. Lysol® Laundry Sanitizer helps eliminate these sickness- and odor-causing bacteria. While you can use the Sanitary Cycle on your machine, it takes almost 2 hours to complete and I know I don’t have time for that! 

   

Momtrends Founder Nicole Feliciano talked about how her daughters travel with 2 special Woolly Mammoth Stuffed Animals and how they have been on a ton of planes and in airport bathrooms (wedged behind the commode). She tries to always wash the stuffed animals when she gets back and run it in a heated drier to kill the bacteria. But she found an easier way — to wash her children’s beloved stuffed animals with Lysol Laundry Sanitizer and her regular detergent (Lysol Laundry Sanitizer is added to the wash separately). 

Purchase:

Lysol Laundry Sanitizer amzn.to/2Og1WnE

Mesh Lingerie Bags https://amzn.to/3hPKxA2

The post How to Repair and Sanitize Your Child’s Beloved Stuffed Animal appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Lullabuddy is so small, yet the sound that comes out of it is incredibly clear. You simply turn it on and adjust the volume. There’s also a shuffle button and a one-hour timer. Lullabuddy doesn’t need batteries or electricity – you simply use the mini USB cable to charge it to a USB port and once it’s fully charged it will last up to 18 hours. I usually just use my cell phone charger and it charges pretty quickly (red light means it needs charging; blue light means it’s good to go). You can place the Lullabuddy anywhere. It’s perfect to take on vacation – you can just put in your hotel room and even in the car.

I received a sample for review and tried it with my boys – they both agreed that the songs are very soothing and help them fall asleep faster. My daughter, who’s twelve, loved the Lullabuddy so much, she’s now taking turns using it in her room. The cool thing about Lullabuddy is that you can also hook it up to your device and use it with your own playlist. The songs, by recording artist Mae Robertson, are exquisite. Some favorites: Moon River, What a Wonderful World and All the Pretty Horses.

Visit Lullabuddy.com to learn more. You can see a list of all the songs and listen to some samples. You can purchase the Lullabuddy on Amazon. Price is $60. Sweet Dreams and a Quiet Bedtime Routine with Lullabuddy (+Giveaway)

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a freelance writer and has written for several blogs, including The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for eighteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 12, 10 and 6) and loves finding great products for her family.

The post Sweet Dreams and a Quiet Bedtime Routine with Lullabuddy appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

As parents, we’ve done smart things and not so smart things. However, signing up for NY’s 529 College Savings Plan right after the birth of my son, almost 13 years ago, is one of the smartest things we’ve done. If you’re not familiar, a 529 plan is a type of investment account you can use for college savings. 529 plans are usually sponsored by the state you live in and offers signifcant tax savings. Your earnings grow federally tax-deferred, qualified withdrawals that are tax-free,* and some states (like New York) have other tax benefits as well.** After the birth of our next two children, we also made sure we opened NY 529 College Savings Plans for them. While we weren’t always flush with cash, we made it a priority to set aside money for their future. And both sets of grandparents gave contributions. And the best part? We’ve saved so much that we can afford to spend a little on ourselves now! We are planning a big family vacation for next February and we also make sure we spend some fun days together in New York City. Why We’re Not Worrying About Saving For College

After the movie, we decided to treat the kids to pancakes at Big Daddy’s Park Avenue South Location. By saving so much by contributing to our 529 Plans, we have some extra cash to eat out more and today pancakes were on the menu!

We love the bright and kitschy decor.

But their pancakes are legendary. My daughter wanted the chocolate chunk silver dollar pancakes and my son wanted OREO pancakes.

Big Daddy’s was kind enough to make us a kid-sized serving of the OREO pancakes, as my little guy would have never finished the regular $13 version.

If you’re wondering, here’s some more info about 529 College Saving Plans.

529 College Savings Plan F.A.Q’s

Other people can contribute!
Contributions to a 529 plan make a great gift for your kids. Our family has contributed to the account by giving us a check and we deposit it, but you can also do it by sharing a special code that you generate for them. Learn about that here: https://www.ugift529.com/home.html

Who can open a 529 plan account?
Anybody can open a 529 account for a child as long as they are a U.S. Citizen or a resident alient. The account owner will manage the account by picking the investment, designating the child as the beneficiary and determine how the money is used. New York State taxpayers will also get a tax deduction.

How can I use the money in a 529 account?
529s can be used for tuition, books, supplies, equipment, some computer equipments, some software and computer -services. You can also use it for some housing and board fees.

Can 529 accounts only be used to pay for college?

529’s can also pay for trade and vocational schools, 2 and 4 year colleges, as well as graduate school, law school and medical schools.

** Up to $10,000 is deductible annually from New York State taxable income for married couples filing jointly; single taxpayers can deduct up to $5,000 annually. May be subject to recapture in certain circumstances such as rollovers to another state’s 529 plan or nonqualified withdrawals.

How much can I invest?

529 account contribution limits are generally high—from $200,000 to $300,000 or more, depending on the state. For the Direct Plan, you can contribute up to $375,000 on behalf of one beneficiary. This amount includes all New York-sponsored 529 savings accounts held for the same beneficiary.

More Facts:

Beneficiaries can attend college in any state, not just the state sponsoring the #529 plan.

There are no income restrictions to open a #529 account.

The account owner—not the beneficiary—is always in control of the account, even when the beneficiary becomes an adult.

There is no age limit for beneficiaries of a 529 on a 529 plan.

A beneficiary can have more than one account. For example, parents can open an account for a child and grandparents can open an account for the same child.

The 529 plan offers tax deductions, tax-deferred growth, and tax-free withdrawals. You can either contribute every year or set up monthly contributions that go straight into your account. And if you want, you can transfer from one 529 fund to another 529 fund to a close relative. Example, if your son finishes college and you transfer what’s left over in his 529 to his little sister’s account.

So if you have a child or even just had a baby, consider opening a 529 for them! 

For more information about New York’s 529 College Savings Program Direct Plan, obtain a Disclosure Booklet and Tuition Savings Agreement at www.nysaves.org or by calling 1-877-NYSAVES. This includes investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other information. You should read and consider them carefully before investing.

Find NY 529 Direct on Social:

The FINE PRINT

Investments in the plan are subject to risk.

Before you invest, consider whether your or the beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other benefits that are only available for investments in that state’s 529 plan.

The Comptroller of the State of New York and the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation are the Program Administrators and are responsible for implementing and administering the Direct Plan. Ascensus Broker Dealer Services, Inc., serves as Program Manager and, in connection with its affiliates, provides recordkeeping and administrative support services and is responsible for day-to-day operations of the Direct Plan. The Vanguard Group, Inc., serves as the Investment Manager. Vanguard Marketing Corporation markets, distributes and underwrites the Direct Plan.

No guarantee: None of the State of New York, its agencies, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), The Vanguard Group, Inc., Ascensus Broker Dealer Services, Inc., nor any of their applicable affiliates insures accounts or guarantees the principal deposited therein or any investment returns on any account or investment portfolio.

New York’s 529 College Savings Program currently includes two separate 529 plans. The Direct Plan is sold directly by the Program. You may also participate in the Advisor Plan, which is sold exclusively through financial advisors and has different investment options and higher fees and expenses as well as financial advisor compensation.

The post Why We’re Not Worrying About Saving For College appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Even though my kids are now out of diapers, they still have a lot of stuff. As in I still have to carry a bag wherever we go to hold extra clothes, snacks, juice boxes, action figures, My Little Pony figures, sunscreen, and etc. However, I also want to look sleek and stylish. I’ve been a huge fan of Ju Ju Be for a long time. I’ve carried diapers, binkies, blankets, wipes and baby supplies in those bags and cleaned baby spit-up off those bags. I’ve scoured eBay and online forums to find those rare prints. Ju Ju Be frankly is in a class on their own and they do a fantastic job. So when I was invited to join them to celebrate the launch of their Ever collection, I took my daughter and we were happy to join Ju Ju Be and several influencers for a delicious and intimate lunch. Ju Ju Be Introduces the Ever Collection: Gorgeous Vegan Leather Diaper Bags

So — meet the Ever line. My daughter is holding the bag that they gifted me, the Wherever Weekender (MSRP $200).

The line features vegan leather, metal hardware, a boatload of pockets, light-colored linings, a memory foam changing pad, wide zippered openings and a lifetime warranty. It’s gorgeous enough for any fashion conscious parent and you can wipe it down very easily (the Ever line is not machine washable). It comes in Noir (a black), Stone and Brulee.

Sophisticated and stylish…the Wherever Weekender is the largest bag in the Ever Collection. This uniquely shaped satchel boasts a removable messenger strap as well as tote straps for multiple carrying options. Packing is a breeze with the wide zippered opening leading to the roomy main compartment. The front pocket is the perfect place to safeguard your wallet, keys, lipstick, and passport. Wherever you are headed, their weekender is your perfect traveling partner!

The Details

• Warranty – Lifetime warranty against defects. Every stitch counts.
• Quick reach pocket for cell phone.
• Structured tote with luggage feet.
• Front pocket holds keys (key fob).
• Inside organization includes 4 pockets, 1 zippered pocket, 2 insulated pockets, changing pad.
• Detachable shoulder strap.
• Antimicrobial treatment protects the liner by inhibiting the growth of odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew.
• Metal Hardware … we don’t trust any of the cheap plastic stuff.
• Light-Colored Linings … you can actually see what’s inside; it’s not just a big black hole in there.

Also in the Ever line is the Everyday Tote (MSRP $165) and the Forever Backpack (MSRP $180).

I plan to use this a weekend bag. Isn’t it gorgeous?

Buy

You can purchase in-store, online or at Amazon.

The post Ju Ju Be Introduces the Ever Collection: Gorgeous Vegan Leather Diaper Bags appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Keep in mind that some of these deals will not last the whole time.

Find Shopping Inspiration and Shop Anywhere

To find what they love even faster, members can explore Prime Day deals organized by more than 40 of the most-shopped-for interests – from style and fashion to electronics, cooking, travel, and more. Prime members can shop for deals online, on the go via the Amazon App, or in person at Whole Foods Market, Amazon Books, Amazon Pop-Up locations, and Treasure Truck. Plus, members can watch live Prime Day programming at amazon.com/primeday where hosts will reveal top deals, shopping tips, and trends during peak shopping times. In fact, members can shop featured products right there, as they’re watching.

Prime Day Deals Preview

Amazon continues to add more and more deals. This year, members will find more than one million deals worldwide – up from more than 100,000 just two years ago. In addition to limited-time Lightning Deals throughout the 36-hour event, Prime members in the U.S. will find more than 140 highly curated Spotlight Deals, which offer our deepest discounts on top brands and the most popular products. Below is a selection of deals members can expect to find on Prime Day.

Amazon Devices: 

• Prime members new to Amazon Music Unlimited can get the best deal in Amazon Music history: Six months free of the premium music streaming service with purchase of select Amazon Echo devices during Prime Day
• Save $20 on Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote, only $19.99
• Save $110 on Toshiba 50-inch 4K Ultra HD Fire TV Edition, only $289.99
• Save $30 on Echo Spot, only $99.99
• Save $30 on Echo (Second Generation), only $69.99
• Save $20 on Echo Dot Kids Edition, only $59.99
• Save $100 on Echo Look, only $99.99
• Save $60 on Amazon Cloud Cam, only $59.99
• Save $75 on Ring Video Doorbell Pro, only $174
• Save $30 on Fire HD8 tablet with Alexa, only $49.99
• Save $30 on Fire HD 8 tablet and new Show Mode Charging Dock bundle, only $79.99
• Eligible Prime members get 10% back on select Amazon devices, including Echo, Fire TV, and Kindle, when they shop on Prime Day using the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card or Amazon Prime Store Card

Amazon Brands:

• Save 30% on everyday essentials from AmazonFresh, Presto!, and Solimo
• Save up to 50% on apparel for the whole family, including Amazon Essentials, Goodthreads, Daily Ritual, and more
• Save up to 30% on AmazonBasics items such as bedding, office products, cookware, and electronics accessories
• Save up to 30% on furniture and home décor from Rivet and Stone & Beam

Fashion:

• Save up to 50% on athleisure shoes for men and women from top-selling brands, including adidas, New Balance, and Puma
• Save up to 50% on activewear from top-selling brands, including Champion, Lacoste, Russell, and Puma
• Save up to 40% on select denim styles for kids from Levi’s and The Children’s Place
• Save up to 40% on select jeans for men and women from Hudson, NYDJ, and Lucky

Electronics:

• Premium brand 49-inch 4K Smart TV, only $438
• Premium brand 55-inch 4K Smart TV, only $478
• Premium brand 65-inch 4K Smart TV, only $649
• Save $300 on LG V35 ThinQ, a Prime Exclusive phone, only $599.99
• Save up to 30% on the Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth speaker
• Save on Bose QuietComfort 25 Headphones, only $125
• Save on Sony WH-CH700N Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones, only $98
• Save 50% on Sennheiser HD 4.50 SE Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones
• Save 25% on Nura Headphones
• Save up to 40% on select Micro SD/SD Cards and USBs
• Save up to 35% on select monitors, laptops, and routers
• Save up to 35% on PC gaming laptops, desktops, and accessories
• Save up to 30% on 3D printers
• Save $400 on the Jibo Robot
• Eligible Prime members get 15% back on select Samsung TVs, audio, and more on Prime Day when shopping with the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card or Amazon Prime Store Card

Smart Home:

• Save up to 40% on select Smart Home products
• Save 40% or more on select Noon Home Smart Lighting products
• Save 30% or more on a smart sprinkler controller
• Save on Etekcity Wi-Fi Smart Plugs – works with Alexa

Home & Kitchen: 

• Save up to 30% on select furniture, mattresses, and rugs
• Save 30% on select Kenmore refrigerators, ranges, washers, and dryers
• Save on wine fridges from Kalamera
• Save $100 on Opal Nugget Ice Maker
• Save 30% or more on Anova Sous Vides
• Save 30% on Coffee Gator
• Save over 30% on the Cricut Explore Air 2 Rose bundle
• Save up to 40% on select cat treats and supplies

Video Games:

• Save 25% on Microsoft Xbox One S 1TB Starter Bundle + Rare Replay, only $229.99
• Save on Nintendo New 3DS XL – Super NES Edition with Super Mario Kart, only $149.99
• Save on Nintendo Switch Gaming Bundle, only $299.99

Toys, Books & Baby:

• Save up to 40% on select outdoor toys, including select Nerf, Green Toys, and Radio Flyer products
• Save up to 40% on select indoor toys, puzzles, and games, including select Play-Doh, Ravensburger, and Crayola products
• Save 30% on select products from Melissa and Doug
• Save 30% on select STEM toys, including select Anki, Osmo, and Sphero products
• Save up to 50% on select children’s books
• Save up to 30% on select Fisher-Price baby products

Sports & Outdoor:

• Save 30% or more on select Coleman camping gear
• Save 30% on the Traeger Renegade Elite Grill
• Save 30% on Blackstone 36” 4-Burner Outdoor Griddle Station
• Save on the Lifestraw Personal Water Filter

Additional Deals from Across Amazon:

• IMDbPro: Save 60% on a new annual membership to IMDbPro, only $95 – the lowest price ever
• Virtual Dash Buttons: Prime members receive an additional 15% off their first virtual Dash Button order
• Subscribe & Save: Prime members receive an additional 30% off their first Subscribe & Save subscription

Shop Deals from Small and Medium-Sized Businesses on Amazon

This Prime Day, members around the world can shop hundreds of thousands of deals from small and medium-sized businesses selling on Amazon. From Amazon Launchpad to Amazon Exclusives and Amazon Handmade, small and medium-sized businesses on Amazon are offering more deals than ever before. Some of these deals include:

• Save up to 50% on Tea Forte summer teas and accessories
• Save 50% on 23andMe Health + Ancestry Personal Genetic Service Kit
• Save on the AncestryDNA Genetic Testing Kit, only $54.99
• Save up to 40% on Petcube Bites Pet Camera & Treat Dispenser
• Save on Anker Powercore Power Banks
• Save up to 40% on toys and games from Mama Moon Boutique
• Save 20% or more on office products and furniture from Stand Steady
• Save 20% on select Amazon Handmade products from local artisans
• Save 20% on select Amazon Launchpad startup products

More Ways to Shop and Save this Prime Day

• Amazon App: Members can shop anytime, anywhere with the Amazon App and set Watch a Deal alerts to start watching deals up to 6 hours before they are live. Prime members can also use the Amazon App to unlock additional discounts on select Prime Day deals. Simply open the app, tap on the camera icon, and try the AR View, Product Search, Barcode Scanner, or Package X-Ray feature to get an additional $5 off select Prime Day deals purchased through the app. Use these features every 6 hours throughout Prime Day for multiple $5 discounts.
• Alexa Shopping: Alexa makes it easy to find the best Prime Day deals. Just ask, “Alexa, what are my Prime Day deals?” Track your Prime Day orders with Alexa. Just ask, “Alexa, where’s my stuff?” or set up Alexa delivery notifications in the Alexa app.
• AmazonFresh: Prime members shopping AmazonFresh can stay cool this summer by stocking up on frozen treats, up to 30% off. Prime members can also take advantage of up to 30% off everyday groceries and household supplies, and free Honey Nut Cheerios, while supplies last. Plus, new and existing AmazonFresh customers can get $30 off their order of $100 or more.
• Whole Foods Market: Through July 17, Prime members who spend $10 in a single transaction in store and scan their Prime Code or provide their linked phone number at checkout will receive a $10 credit that can be used on Amazon during Prime Day. Plus, eligible Amazon Prime Rewards Visa cardmembers will enjoy double the rewards – 10% back – when shopping at Whole Foods Market on up to a total of $400 in purchases. Prime members will also enjoy exclusive offers on select seasonal items like organic strawberries and Icelandic cod, and can shop Amazon device deals at select Whole Foods Market stores. Download the Whole Foods Market app and scan the Prime Code to start saving.
• Prime Now: Prime members can shop hundreds of Prime Day deals through Prime Now for delivery in as little as an hour. Save on home essentials, snacks, beverages, and more with exclusive deals. New to Prime Now? Prime members who have not yet tried Prime Now will receive $10 off their order before July 17 and get $10 to use towards a future order.
• Treasure Truck: Now available in 25 select cities, Treasure Truck is a new way for customers to shop this Prime Day. Customers can opt-in at amazon.com/TreasureTruck to receive notifications for special offers, order the item, and pick up at the truck on Prime Day. Look for the truck at various locations this Prime Day.
• Amazon Books and Amazon Pop-Up: Prime members can take advantage of Prime Day deals at 82 Amazon Books and Amazon Pop-Up locations in 21 states across the U.S. To find locations and hours, visit amazon.com/stores.
• Amazon.com in Spanish: Customers can shop Prime Day deals, view their shopping cart, and place orders in Spanish. Preferred language settings can be updated in the Amazon App and on Amazon.com by clicking the ‘globe’ button located in the navigation bar at the top of the Amazon home screen. To date, millions of customers have chosen Spanish as their preferred language to shop on Amazon.com and in the Amazon App.
• Amazon Prime Credit Cards: Cardmembers can enjoy 5% back on all their Prime Day purchases when shopping with the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card or the Amazon Prime Store Card.

Every Day Made Better with Prime

Prime was designed to make your life better every single day. Over 100 million paid members around the world enjoy the many benefits of Prime, including shopping and entertainment. In the U.S. that includes unlimited access to award-winning movies and TV episodes with Prime Video; unlimited access to Prime Music, Audible Channels for Prime, Prime Reading, Prime Photos, Twitch Prime; early access to select Lightning Deals, one free pre-released book a month with Amazon First Reads, and more. Prime members can also get deep discounts on select popular products at Whole Foods Market plus an additional 10 percent off hundreds of sale items. Prime was built on the foundation of unlimited fast, free shipping and members receive Prime FREE One-Day Shipping and Prime FREE Same-Day Delivery in more than 8,000 cities and towns, two-hour delivery with Prime Now in more than 30 major cities and unlimited Free Two-Day Shipping on more than 100 million items. Start a free trial of Amazon Prime at amazon.com/prime.

For a really big deal — check out Instant Pot here (after it launches) – https://amzn.to/2ml0AtN

Starts: July 16, 2018, 3:00 PM EST and 12:00 PM PST and will last for 36 hours. The quantities will be available while supplies last. Multiple units per customer will be available.

This post contains affiliate links which means I get a wee percentage of your purchase price, at no additional cost to you. This post will be updated through the day. 

The post Amazon Prime Day 2018 – Score Some Big Deals for the Next 36 Hours appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

We got to the castle about 45 minutes before the show and had fun walking around, perusing the gift shops and the cool merchandise and toys. For a fee, you can get your photo taken with the royals.

The queen arrived and knighted some guests (I think it was their birthdays).

About 15 minutes before the show the master of ceremonies announced that the banquet hall was open and everyone was welcome to go in.

The show began with an introduction to the characters followed by horse tricks and a really cool live falcon that flew all over the banquet hall. We were served our food right away. I have to say the four-course meal was very good – delicious tomato soup (which I typically don’t eat) and roasted chicken and sides plus very delicious and filling options for vegetarians such as a huge pot filled to the brim with rice, beans, and potatoes. The portions were very big and everyone loved their food. There’s coffee and yummy cake for dessert.

My son was also a big fan of the tomato soup. There are no utensils so he just drank it directly from the bowl. (We did have a spoon for the rice and I’m pretty sure you can request for utensils if you want).

The queen was the star of the show. Medieval Times creates a new show every six years; recently they came up with a new show where, for the first time since Medieval Times was established (34 years ago), a woman is the lead role.

After the main meal was served the jousting tournament began. The knights were very impressive. They were very skilled and looked comfortable on their horses, although I know they have been training for months. I loved the lavish costumes and the attention to detail.

We sat in the section of the red and yellow knight. Here he is next to the green knight:

Towards the end, only two knights were left standing. The black and white knight and the red and yellow knight. The black and white knight insulted the queen, telling her she has no place in the dominion of men.

The queen, in turn, challenged him to battle with the red and yellow knight.

The red and yellow knight won! (a net comes down during sword fighting to protect the audience from sparks)

My kids were not at all afraid of the sword fighting. Although real swords are used the flighting is more playful and no one gets hurt or even looks hurt. The losing knight just walks away, escorted by an attendant. When we got home my boys went to read their pop-up knights of the Middle Ages book. I was thrilled the pages in the book came to life in this unforgettable performance.

Click here to learn more about Medieval Times and to purchase tickets.

I was not compensated for this post. I received complimentary tickets.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a freelance writer and has written for several blogs, such as The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for seventeen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 11, 9 and 5) and loves finding great products for her family.

The post Medieval Times: A Trip Back in Time and a Magical Show appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Update: The newest Ace is the 3 and it’s what I would buy for my child these days — link here: https://amzn.to/3AUdST9. As I’ve mentioned, my 12-year-old son has Type 1 Diabetes. Even though he has gained 20 pounds since diagnosis (he was underweight and sorely needed it), I am hoping to instill healthy food and health habits while he and his younger siblings are still young enough to listen to me. That includes making exercise a daily priority. Right now my oldest son is healthy and even though he has an autoimmune disease (which is what Type 1 Diabetes is) he needs to do whatever he can to make sure he stays healthy. I want to build habits that last into adulthood. The Fitbit Ace Activity Tracker for Kids is made for ages 8 and up and this showerproof wristband tracks steps, active minutes and sleep — and rewards kids for making their goals. While my son does exercise, he isn’t wild about it. However, he’s competitive and I was wondering if challenging him to do 10,000 steps would do the trick to get him to reach that daily goal. Did it? Read on for our verdict and the chance to win one for your child! Fitbit Ace Activity Tracker for Kids 8+  

Fitbit Ace is sized for kids. It fit my 12-year-old son’s wrist perfectly and was secure on his wrist (with a watch-like closure). Here are all the features.

Features include:
Activity Tracking
Rewards and Badges
Step Challenges
Showerproof
Battery Life up to 5 days
Sized for kids
Sleep Tracking
Reminders to Move
Wireless syncing
Clock Faces
Clear Display
Fitbit App: Parent view
Fitbit App: Kid view

To set up:
If you have a Fitbit account, log into it on your smartphone to start setting up. You want to do this so you can then set up a child account and then set up your child’s Fitbit Ace.

Your child doesn’t need their own phone, but if they have a phone, you can set it up so your child’s Fitbit Ace can connect to the child account on their phone. The Fitbit app literally walked me through it and while there were several steps, it was super easy. Once you install the Fitbit app on your child’s phone, sign into your account and then go into your family account on your child’s phone. Select that child and then switch to “Kid View” and then set up your Fitbit Ace.

I do limit what apps I put on my child’s phone, but I want him to really get the most out of his Fitbit Ace, so I was happy to put it on his device.

Your child will need to have their Bluetooth on, as the app will ask to pair to it.

Your child can choose which wrist to put it on.

Then you add a nickname. I tend to leave my children’s names off anything that would be displayed, so I picked a name that he likes to use on social media. And no, this isn’t the name we really used for this, just an example.

What I’ve always liked about Fitbit is that you can customize – I let my son pick the way he wanted his clock face displayed.

It will let your child know the ways to access it. I did tell my son to be gentle, as I didn’t want a broken Fitbit Ace on my hands if he whacked it too hard.

The Fitbit Ace has reminders to move. This is great for squeezing it at least 250 steps an hour.

Keeping A Charge:

Let’s talk charging cables. This is the only thing I don’t really like about Fitbit. I want a universal charging cable. I lose cables and I need a cable that I can run out and buy from a big box store, not a special cable that costs $20 and I can only get online. I’ve owned several Fitbits over the years and I always end up having to buy extras, and the ones that I still have in the house aren’t compatible with the Fitbit Ace. Make it a micro USB Cable or something that is widely available. The good news about the Fitbit Ace is that you can charge around every 5 days. However, if you are going on vacation or maybe travel often, I would see about ordering another one to keep on hand.

My son challenged himself to reach 10,000 steps on day 2 of wearing his Fitbit Ace and has been able to keep that up daily.

The Fitbit Ace is certainly inspiring my son to move around more and in my opinion, this is something I can totally recommend. Buy here: Amazon

Related Posts:

The post Fibit Ace: The New Fitbit Activity Tracker for Kids 8+ appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Things have been very even more stressful for my family (than usual) for the last 9 months since my son was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Some of the ways my son and I have coped is through exercising together at night, and then calming down with some meditation (on his side). My son’s blood sugar is usually high after dinner, so the combo of exercise and then a calm down actually helps him feel better. Trouble is that I don’t really know how to do guided meditation and the YouTube videos I found weren’t really cutting it. Plus I desperately need to find some peace myself. I wasn’t really sure where to start. I also want to get my whole family involved, because who couldn’t use more peace! Recently I attended a luncheon with Headspace, the Mindful Meditation App and I think this might help my family and I to relax more.

If you’re not familiar with Headspace, it’s much more than just a way to meditate. There’s science behind it. Headspace wants to “advance the field of mindfulness meditation through clinically-validated research on their product. They are currently in progress on research studies with large national institutions that could be among the largest mindfulness meditation trials ever conducted.” Headspace wants to actually make an impact in people’s lives. I will admit I didn’t know that much about mindfulness – but the more I hear about mindful meditation, mindful eating, and mindful parenting, the more I’m intrigued.

Nicole Feliciano of Momtrends

Momtrends Media conducted a nationwide Parenting Stressor Survey last month and it was revealed that 40% of American parents said that summer was their most stressful time of the year, followed by back to school and holidays (both at 22%). Parents said that the leading cause of summer stress was “change in routine” (40%), too many activities (19%), and fear of brain drain (15%). For their children, parents said that change of routine (46%) and boredom (34%) are the leading stressors. What stresses you out as a parent?

So how can this be helped? A good way to start is being mindful. Headspace co-founder Andy Puddicome spoke to us as we enjoyed a delicious lunch in NYC and suggested several ways to be mindful and how spending more time “in the moment” can improve your time together as a family.

Mindful Parenting Tips

1. Daily Family Meditation – research shows that meditation can reduce stress, anxiety, and anger. It also increases focus, compassion, and happiness. To me, that’s the perfect reason to meditate. If you don’t know how to start, Headspace and Headspace for kids offers easy and fun meditations for the whole family. Use it to start your day right or wind down at night. For my family, winding down at night is key and I plan to do this with my whole family, not just my son and I.

2. Device-Free Dinners – we already practice this. We don’t allow devices at the dinner table and while it’s really tough not to check my email at dinnertime, I give my kids and my husband my 100% attention. It’s sparked great conversations and my kids feel that they are being paid attention to.

3. Mindful Eating — this is something that is so important. Pay attention to the food that you are eating, what the shape is, how it smells. Remember to eat slowly and call out the flavors that you are eating. This helps kids to focus on what they are eating, not just mindless consuming their food.

4. Write it down – Parents, this one is for you. Keep a small journal and every night before bed, quickly jot down 1- 2 things about your child that you appreciate. Do this for a few months and then gift it to  your child to read. They will appreciate how much you care about them.

5. Breathe – everyone in your family will benefit from this. When you feel the pressure and stress building, take 30 seconds to just breathe. Take 10 deep breaths, in through the nose and out through the mouth. Taking those 30 seconds will help in diffusing most of the stress and pressure.

After Andy spoke to us, he lead us in a short meditation. It was amazing how relaxed I felt after.

Last night my son and I sat down to check it out Headspace.

We chose a 6-minute meditation for kids to promote calm and it did exactly that. We loved hearing Co-Founder Andy’s super-chill voice and we both felt very peaceful after.

I look forward to using this every night with my family.

Special Discount:

Photos courtesy of Momtrends. 

The post Tips for Meditation and Mindfulness with Kids ( + Headspace Discount) appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Use code MAYTHE4TH. Free shipping available on orders over $50.

Here are books included in the discount. (Note: Prices do not reflect the discount, which needs to be manually applied at checkout)

Star Wars Lightsabers: A Guide to Weapons of the Force ($14.99)

Get up-close, detailed facts about lightsabers and the stories that surround them.

Star Wars Master Models: Millenium Falcon (24.99)

Build a foot-wide model of the Millenium Falcon, complete with LED lights.

Star Wars Master Model Scenes ($24.99)

Build papercraft dioramas to recreate iconic scenes from Revenge of the Sith and The Force Awakens.

Star Wars Master Models Darth Vader ($24.99)

Build a papercraft bust of Darth Vader, complete with a sound module to hear his breathing and two movie quotes.

Star Wars Master Models R2-D2 ($24.99)

Build a papercraft one foot model of R2-D2, complete with lights and a sound chip.

Learn to Draw Star Wars ($14.95)

Step-by-step instructions to draw all of your favorite characters from Star Wars. This 64-page book includes 3 methods of drawing, as well as tracing paper, practice grids and practice pages.

Learn to Draw Star Wars Drawing Book & Kit ($19.99)

This kid-friendly drawing tutorial provides instructions for drawing the Star Wars characters and includes paper pad, pencil, eraser, pencil sharpener, markers and colored pencils.

Learn to Draw Star Wars ($19.99)

This 128-page book provides instructions for drawing with graphite pencil the characters as detailed pencil drawings.

Learn to Draw Star Wars: The Force Awakens ($19.95)

Instructions for drawing new and returning characters with graphite pencil.

Star Wars: The Blueprints ($79.99)

This book reveals the work of engineers, designers and artists through 500 photos and illustrations and 250 blueprints. Get details from concept sketches to final scenes.

Cross Stitch Creations Star Wars ($21.99)

Cross stitch fans can use the 12 patterns in this book to create projects with easy-to-follow instructions. Also included are needle, hoop and cloth and embroidery floss for two projects.

Star Wars Jedi Path (Deluxe Edition) ($79.99)

Jedi wannabes will delight in this Jedi training manual, which is enclosed in a vault. With a push of a button it opens to lights and sounds. Tucked in its pages are mementos and notes by ‘those who have studied it before’.

Star Wars: Book of Sith (Deluxe Edition) ($79.99)

Delve into the dark side to get access to the Sith manifesto, written by Darth Sidious himself. The interactive case comes with lights and sounds, as well as seven removable objects, such as a Sith lightsaber crystal.

Offer ends May 31st, 2018.

I was not compensated for this post. I received samples.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a freelance writer and has written for several blogs, such as The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for seventeen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 11, 9 and 5) and loves finding great products for her family.

The post Deal Alert! Get 40% Off A Variety of Star Wars Books for Fans of all Ages appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Mother’s Day is almost here and I’m so excited! My mother means the world to me and does so much for me and my family. She’s finally back up in New York after a long snowbird and I was so excited to hug her this past weekend. She has always come through for me and I’ll never forget how she stepped up when my son was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. She was there with us in the hospital, watched my younger kids and I made her come every day for about a week because I was afraid to be alone and dealing with this with my son. She did research to help us with foods, she always finds low or no carb snacks for us and most importantly, she always listens. So I have a lot to thank her for. This year I’ll be bringing her a DIY gift basket, filled with all my favorite products from Dove. Dove has been a favorite of my family for generations and I just know that she’s going to be thrilled. DIY Mother’s Day Gift Basket Idea with Dove Products

I chose Dove Advanced Care Original Clean Deodorant, the Dove White Beauty Bar, Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash, Intensive Repair Shampoo and Conditioner.

Dove White Beauty Bar is a total classic. With mild cleansers, it totally helps your skin to retain its natural moisture rather than stripping that moisture away. This Dove bar even helps to replenish nutrients that are lost during the cleansing process – where a soap bar can leave your skin feeling tight and rough, Dove Beauty Bars leave it feeling softer and more radiant looking. This is a must and it will make your morning showers so much better. This gentle cleansing formula contains ¼ moisturizing cream to give you softer, smoother, more radiant looking skin vs. ordinary soap. This has been used in my family for generations. It’s suitable for daily use on face, body, and hands. This is always in my linen closet!

I also added Dove Advanced Care Original Clean Deodorant — which the deodorant I use every single day (and love). Up to 48-hour antiperspirant protection •0% (ethanol) alcohol formula helps underarms recover from shaving irritation. •Contains ¼ moisturizers and Dove NutriumMoisture Protects against underarm wetness and odor.

I also added Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash – which my son and husband use. This moisturizing and mild body wash combines NutriumMoisture with 100% gentle cleansers to help your skin retain its natural moisture, leaving you with softer, smoother skin after just one shower. The caring #1 Dermatologist recommended formula in this Dove body wash helps maintain your skin’s moisture barrier while delivering natural skin nourishment that goes deep into the surface layers of your skin. It creates a rich lather that replenishes your skin’s nutrients while also leaving it feeling cared for and clean.

I also gave her Dove Intensive Repair Shampoo and Conditioner. Dove Intensive Repair Shampoo & Conditioner formulated with Nutri-Keratin Repair Actives, help your hair to recover from damage in two different ways. The formulas repair signs of surface damage, making your hair look and feel smoother and stronger against breakage. It also penetrates the strands to provide hair nourishment deep inside, making your hair look healthier, time after time.

Make A DIY Mother’s Day Gift Basket

To make the basket, I picked up a pack of pretty blue towels and a grey basket. I layered a few towels on the bottom of the basket, and then arranged the Dove products on top, layered more towels between the items to support them. To finish it off, I took the white ribbon from the cute towels I bought and tied it to my basket. Voila! The whole thing cost around $43 to make. I feel ready to give this to my mother on Mother’s Day!

The post DIY Mother’s Day Gift Basket Idea with Dove Products appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

My boys are five and nine and are into pretty much anything disgusting. We try to keep things civilized at the dinner table but most any other time it’s a competition of who can use the most potty words. Rather than having them use bad language, I’m helping them get their “gross” fix via products and recently came across a ridiculously silly but creative product called Zits. Zits: The Prank Toy Your Kids Will Love! (+ Giveaway)

Zits are stickers that look like pimples and are filled with a pus-like liquid. Pretty gross, right? The “pus” is actually mostly glycerin and is non-toxic. Using Zits is easy – you simply peel the adhesive on the back, put on your face and watch people get grossed out as they see you press on the zits and as the “pus” oozes out. You can stick Zits anywhere but I think on the face you’ll probably get the biggest reaction.

Zits are probably mostly used for pranking but I think they can also be used in pretend play. Each pack comes with 25 zits in different sizes, plus a bonus tattoo. Once you get the goo out of the Zits you can play with it like slime. My kids are huge fans of slime and the Zits’ goo has a similar texture so it won’t stick to anything, much like slime. This is a good thing because I don’t need pus, real or pretend, all over my house.

Click here to purchase a four-pack of Zits ($19.99 and FREE shipping). Zits are also available at Walmart and other major retailers. Price is $4.99 per pack of 25 Zits.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for seventeen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 11, 9 and 5) and loves finding great products for her family.

The post Zits: The Prank Toy Your Kids Will Love! appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Are you guys ready for another Wubble Ball? The new one out is really cool – Wubble Fulla! Wubble Fulla is a Wubble Ball that’s filled with slime or little marbles, which are actually teeny tiny colorful mini Wubble Balls. My kids have been having a lot of fun with the Wubble Fulla balls and I’m just amazed at how incredibly durable they are – no matter what, they don’t break, so no need to worry about anything spilling out. Wubble Fulla…The Wubble Ball That’s Full of Slime or Marbles!

Wubble Fulla Slime comes in 3 sizes (Huge, at 5″, Big at 4″ and  Tiny at 2.5″) and has gooey green slime inside it. My oldest loves making slime at home but it gets all over the house. With the Wubble Fulla she can enjoy slime without the mess. Wubble Fulla Marbles ball also comes in the same sizes, Huge, Big and Tiny. Both type of balls are sticky when you hold them but that stickiness doesn’t stay on your hands. Wubble Fulla balls are a great sensory toy and feel like a sticky stress ball, but more fun to play with because they has more give so you can twist them and stretch them.

The Huge Wubble Fulla balls were a big hit with my kids but the Tiny balls are also really fun and perfect for taking on the go – they fit in the diaper bag and are great for long car rides as well.

Click below to see the Wubble Fulla in action:

Purchase on Amazon.

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman writes for Little Spoon and has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for seventeen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 11, 8 and 5) and loves finding great products for her family. 

The post Wubble Fulla – The Wubble Ball That’s Full of Slime or Marbles! appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

We’re teaming up with ModernTribe to share our favorite Passover gifts that are totally appropriate to bring to a seder. Perfect Passover Gifts to Bring to a Seder

Our Picks

Matzoh Yarmulke $8.99 – Grampy Steve will look so stylish as he leads the family in the Seder! This Matzoh Yarmulke will have all the adults and kids admiring it. It’s definitely going to put a smile on some faces!

The Hogwarts Hagaddah By Moshe Rosenberg $17.99

This could be a great way to get teens interested in the story of Passover, by using this Hogwarts Hagaddah. From the description: “What could a School of Witchcraft and Wizardry possibly have in common with the most published book in Jewish history and the most celebrated holiday of the Jewish calendar? As it turns out, quite a lot. From the concepts of slavery and freedom, to the focus on education, to the number four, Harry Potter and Passover share almost everything. This book is the perfect companion for young and old at the Seder table. Enchant your guests with lessons from the magical realms of Hogwarts and Jewish tradition. Foster conversation with student responses to Seder questions. And learn the ultimate lesson: Holiness can be found everywhere if you know where to look.”

Ten Plagues Nail Decals $12

Seriously, how can you resist these awesome nail decals featuring the ten plagues? Definitely a conversation starter (and super cute).

Passover Tic Tac Toad Game $11.99

How cute is this? This would be really fun before the seder starts or while you are all waiting for dessert. From the description:  “Frogs and Matzahs battle to connect 3 in a row in this revision of the classic Tic-Tac-Toe game. Provides hours of endless Passover fun! SIZE: 8″ x 8.9”.

• 1 wood tic-tac-toe board with grooves
• 5 frog pieces and 5 matzah ball pieces”

Silver 10 Plagues Passover Coasters, set of 18 $25

What a perfect hostess gift! Description: “These Passover coasters were specially designed for dipping ten drops of wine while reciting the ten plagues during the seder, without messing up your plates. They are printed with icons of each of the 10 plagues and identifiers in both Hebrew and English.

• Set of 18 coasters
• Measure 4″ Diameter.
• Professionally foil stamped in shiny chrome foil
• Comes nicely packaged in a clear box. “

We’ve got a giveaway!

I was not compensated for this post.

Here’s a great post about some of our favorite Passover Meals!

The post Perfect Passover Gifts to Bring to a Seder appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

It’s been 6 months since my then 11-year-old son was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and everything we knew about feeding him meals and snacks had to change. Carbs were suddenly the biggest thing we needed to worry about when he ate, but we had to make sure he had enough protein and fiber also. It changed what I served him for meals. It changed what I gave him for snacks at school and at home. We used to rely on healthy granola bars, whole grain pretzels, tortilla chips, and applesauce pouches as snacks for my son, but that wasn’t going to work anymore. Suddenly, for my son, I had to shoot for high protein and low carb snacks (like I prefer to have). I’m pre-diabetic and had gestational diabetes with my last pregnancy, so I really try to make sure I eat well, as I am trying to avoid having Type 2 Diabetes. With Type 1 Diabetes I can technically give my son anything we want if we count the carbs, but I noticed that certain ingredients and bars tended to spike his blood sugar. And for snacks, I try to make sure I am really making good choices for him. My son’s blood sugar levels aren’t stable yet, as he is in puberty. I find that lower glycemic choices are better for him. Enter NuGo Nutrition, who asked me to try their NuGo Slim Protein Bars. Their bars provide protein and fiber without the sugars and artificial sweeteners found in other products. NuGo Slim Bars are known for their great taste with 7 delicious flavors, all made with REAL dark chocolate. But would we like the bars? NuGo Slim Low Sugar Protein Bars Are Our Go-To Protein Bars #ad | The Mama Maven Blog

From the second I showed him the bars and all the flavor choices, my son and I were intrigued. There were many flavors –NuGo is a is the only company to make REAL Dark Chocolate coated protein bars and they were delicious. We actually enjoyed trying all the different flavors and they held up being carried around in my son’s pockets, my purse and his diabetes go bag. My favorite was the Raspberry Truffle, while my son’s favorite was the Chocolate Mint (which tasted like his favorite chocolate mint cookie). My kid has always been a picky eater and he loved everything he tried from NuGo.

NuGo Slim Protein Bars have a glycemic index of 24-29, which is the lowest tested and published of any low sugar or sugar-free bar. A Verified Low Glycemic Index of 24-29 to help minimize blood sugar spikes and crashes, making NuGo Slim Protein Bars beneficial for diabetes, pre-diabetes, and weight management.

NuGo Slim Protein Bars use chicory root fiber, which has virtually no effect on blood sugar levels because it doesn’t absorb or begin to digest until it reaches the large intestine.

Other low sugar or sugar-free bars use maltitol, a sugar alcohol, which has a similar rate of rapid digestion to table sugar and orange juice.

But the best part for us – the high protein keeps my son and I satisfied and there are no sugar spikes.

Features

• 2-3 grams of sugar from real dark chocolate and chicory root fiber. No maltitol or artificial sweeteners.
• 5-6 net carbs
• 6-7 grams of fiber
• 16-18 grams of protein
• 160-180 calories
• 24-29 Glycemic Index (lowest tested and published GI of any low sugar or sugar-free bar)
• Non-GMO
• All 7 flavors are certified gluten-free
• Four flavors are vegan and Kosher Pareve: Crunchy Peanut Butter, Espresso, Chocolate Mint and Toasted Coconut

We’ve made NuGo Slim Protein Bars a pre-gym snack for my son. It gives him protein and fiber and keeps his blood sugar stable for his workout. Our endocrinologist told us that my son needs a snack under 20 carbs before he goes to the gym (and not to give him insulin), so NuGo Slim Protein Bars are perfect for that. It’s also an  ideal snack for my son when he needs something between meals (at home or at school). The fact that it doesn’t spike his blood sugar and fills him up with protein makes it the perfect choice. He loves the wide choice of flavors!

I also keep several in his Diabetes GoBag so he can have a NuGo Slim Protein Bar when he’s hungry and can just input the carbs into his insulin pump.

Another cool fact – there are gluten-free and even vegan types of NuGo Slim Protein Bars. For me, I am trying to lose weight (my son is not), so I like that I can grab a NuGo Slim Protein Bar and feel full. I always have one to 2 in my purse and they help me from making bad choices when I’m out and about.

So, I want to know what NuGo Slim Protein bar you want to try most?

Get 20% off NuGo Slim HERE using coupon code MAMA20 through March 31, 2018

#NuGoBars

The post NuGo Slim Low Sugar Protein Bars Are Our Go-To Protein Bars  appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Hey friends, do you rule in the kitchen, when it comes to toasting up some delicious treats for your loving family and friends? Have you ever made pizzas on English muffins? Did you toast your English muffin before you melted the cheese on them? Did you use olive oil, tomato sauce or something else as your base? Did you broil or bake? Did you spice it right? If you haven’t tried Bays English Muffin pizzas, you’re missing something tasty that’s super easy to make. My family is in love with them!

All you have to do is grab your favorite toppings, pour on some sauce and get toasting. Bays makes it easy, delicious and fun. And, everyone can create their own masterpiece using Bays English Muffins as the blank canvas.

My husband was so excited and grabbed the English Muffins and made us all english muffins pizzas for dinner.

He made the standard mozzarella and tomato sauce pizza muffins for us.

But for his, he added turkey burgers crumpled on top. 

He also made a Mexican-inspired Pizza Muffin with salsa and cheddar cheese. These were my favorite! So good!

The good news is that anyone can be a Bays Pizza Genius …

Enter the Sweepstakes 

Click on this link facebook.com/baysenglishmuffins to enter every day for a chance to WIN a countertop Pizza Maker Oven and two packages of Bays. Enter and share why you are a Bays Pizza Genius from March 1– March 20, 2018. The official rules are located at bays.com. There’s no purchase necessary.

Bays English Muffin Pizza Recipes

If you want to start cookin’ your Bays Pizza Muffins now, there are some terrific new pizza recipes at bays.com

• BBQ Chicken Pizza – Make this family-friendly meal any night of the week
• Gorgonzola Pear Pizza – Try this Italian flavor combo anytime
• Pizza Margherita– Freshen up a classic with select ingredients
• Shitake Mushroom Herb Pizza–Dress up your Bays with this elegant recipe for dinner
• Southwest Shrimp Bacon Pineapple Pizza –Fire up the fresh taste of a Hawaiian pizza
• Fig Prosciutto Arugula Pizza– Make mouths water with this sweet and salty show stopper

Watch this video and you will see how easy it is to be a Bays Pizza Genius!

There are four varieties of Bays English Muffins: Original, Honey Wheat, Sourdough, and Multi-Grain. You can find them in your grocer’s refrigerator case (may be found near eggs, butter or refrigerated dough). They’re great to always have them on hand for a quick meal or snack!

Here’s a great recipe for BBQ Chicken Pizza Muffins

Ingredients

3/4 cup barbecue sauce
1 cup shredded cooked chicken
1/3 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4 BAYS English Muffins, any variety, split, untoasted
1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400° F.
Mix barbecue sauce and chicken in medium bowl. Mix cheeses in small bowl.
Place muffin halves on baking sheet. Top evenly with chicken mixture; sprinkle with onion and cheese.
Bake 12 to 14 minutes or until cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Sprinkle with cilantro.

Serves: 4

Tip: Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a time-saver in this recipe

– recipe courtesy of Bays English Muffins.

Pin for later: 

How do you make english muffin pizzas?

The post Love English Muffin Pizzas? Bays English Muffins Lets You Be A Pizza Genius! appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Before we started cooking, we opened the jars and tasted the fruit spreads – they tasted so delicious. There is real fruit and organic sugar in the fruit spreads, and the carb count is 11g for 1 tbsp of each fruit spread we tried. The peanut butter contains only organic roasted peanuts. No other ingredients! It’s so creamy and it’s not made with hydrogenated oils. The carb count is 6 grams for 2 tbsps of the peanut butter. All products are certified organic by Quality Assurance International and are gluten-free and non-GMO. This is something that I am proud to serve my family and will be buying from now on. But onto the delicious crepes with fruit and Greek yogurt that we made!

Easy Fruit Crepes with Fruit and Greek Yogurt

Ingredients

For the Crepes:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 pinches of salt
4 eggs
2 1/2 cups milk
4 tablespoons melted butter or oil

For the Filling:
Santa Cruz Organic Blackberry Pomegranate Fruit Spread
Santa Cruz Organic Mango Fruit Spread
Creamy Dark Roasted Peanut Butter
Chocolate Sauce (optional)
Bananas
Vanilla Greek Yogurt to taste
Cinnamon (optional)
Whipped Cream (optional)
Blueberries (optional)

Instructions:

We used our Vitamix Blender for this and I couldn’t believe how easy it was. I added the flour (you could easily sub in gluten-free flour here). I’ve never used my Vitamix for something like this and I was so glad that I did. It made it so easy.

Then I added a pinch of salt and then the milk.

I gave it a little blend.

Then I added the eggs – again, couldn’t believe how easy it was.

Blend again!

Add the butter.

Blend one more time.

Transfer batter to a bowl.

Heat up your pan. Mark Bittman suggests making sure it’s hot enough by skittering – see if a drop of water will skitter across the surface of the pan and then add a 1/2 teaspoon of butter. Add one tablespoon of batter onto the skillet and swirl it around the bottom of the pan. These are meant to be thin!

And my first crepe was a flop — it was too thick. I asked my husband to take over, since he’s the king of making eggs for us.

And soon we had a beautiful stack of crepes.

I started assembling my crepes. I took a teaspoon of Santa Cruz Organic Mango Spread and a teaspoon of vanilla greek yogurt.

And then rolled them up and baked them for 10 minutes at 400 degrees.

I was able to make around 16 filled crepes in total.

For the Blackberry Pomegranate, I did the same thing – added the Blackberry Pomegranate fruit spread to vanilla greek yogurt, mixed it and added it to each crepe, rolled it up and baked it.

This is how the mango greek yogurt crepes looked after we added some chocolate sauce and blueberries. It was amazing!

For the peanut butter crepes, we mixed the peanut butter with some vanilla greek yogurt, added some bananas inside and then on the outside, along with cinnamon and chocolate sauce.

This was also amazing!

Find Santa Cruz Organics at Target – and get 25% off via Cartwheel!

This post was created in partnership with Womensforum and Santa Cruz Organic.

The post Easy Crepes with Fruit and Greek Yogurt appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

The Kodak PIXPRO AZ421 is really easy to use: simply point and click. For most of the photos that I took in this post, I simply used the basic setting (auto mode) and didn’t bother with flash. The camera, however, has many modes, such as videos, panoramic photo, and more. It also has a mode called SCN that allows you to choose from 12 scenes, such as a sunset setting, which I discussed below, that gives the photo a much more dramatic look.

The camera itself is pretty heavy, probably due to the big lens, so I suggest you put the strap on it right away. I also recommend downloading the user manual and saving it somewhere on your computer so you can refer to it when you want to use some of the special features.The camera comes with its own battery and charger (super easy, just hook it up to any outlet).

I went with my family to the Stamford Thanksgiving Parade, which was held several days before Thanksgiving. The Kodak PIXPRO delivered! I had such a blast taking photos of everyone participating in the parade and was amazed at how vivid the pictures came out!

Here are my favorite photos from the day, taken with the Kodak PIXPRO. Every single photo in this post is unedited. This is exactly how the photos came out. (The only change I made was that I cropped a few of the photos.) 

I decided to try the Kodak PIXPRO in a late afternoon setting and took some shots at the Holiday Market at Bryant Park in NYC.

As I mentioned, the camera has a sunset feature. Here’s a photo without the sunset feature turned on:

Here’s a photo with the sunset feature:

You can purchase the Kodak PIXPRO AZ421 at Amazon or Walmart.

I was not compensated for this post. I received a sample. 

Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman writes for Little Spoon and has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for seventeen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 10, 8 and 5) and loves finding great products for her family. 

The post Take Gorgeous Photos with the Kodak PIXPRO AZ421 Camera appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

I’ve trying to really focus on my health and self-care this year. As I climb into another year of my forties, it’s been harder and harder to get myself back to where I want to be. There’s always the usual excuses — kids, work, life. This summer I made a drastic change and started really eating very cleanly and exercising. However, I wasn’t really sure where to start with exercise. I’ve been doing cardio while watching YouTube videos. However, I know things work better for me when I have a program laid out for me. Enter BodyBoss.

This 12 week step-by-step fitness program is unlike anything I’ve ever done and makes it easy to workout at home. Think you have no time? You can do it in just 24 active minutes 3 days a week!Review: Body Boss Ultimate And yes, you can start this fantastic program even if you are a beginner or restarting your fitness journey like I was. You can follow the guide online or in book form (or even do it both ways).

While I started online, I actually liked following it better in the book form. It clearly showed me how to do every single part of the program in a clear and concise way. I sometimes stress about following directions and understanding them — but this was crystal clear, and I was able to start at my level and move up.

I started in the pre-training (yeah, it’s been a while since I did anything but cardio, and the guide comes with 4 weeks of bonus pre-training program to get people or beginners like me started!). Through the weeks, I’ve been moving up and I have been getting fitter. While I don’t want to reveal my exact results yet, I’m happy to feel better and seeing my scale go down.

I’ve learned that you really do need to stretch for warmups and cool downs to prevent injuries while HIITing it! As you know, the BodyBoss Fitness Guide consists of High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT for short).

BodyBoss Features

• 12 week step-by-step training program

• Unlock the afterburn effect*

• Rapidly burn fat with our high intensity formula*

• Save time by working out in under 24 active minutes

• BONUS 4 week pre-training program

I even have fun with it — I’m enjoying the exercises like SUMO Squats! Now, it will get easier to do the exercises as you go, but I am building strength and I feel so much better.

Now for the results. While I’m only on week 3 of the program (since I did two weeks of the pre-program to get myself up to speed), I’m down by 5 lbs (which is a total of 11 pounds so far) since mid-July. 

I really do think that Body Boss is helping me change my body and I can’t wait to do the entire 12 weeks of BodyBoss!! I also feel stronger and much healthier!!

Related Posts:

The post Review: Body Boss Ultimate Body Fitness Guide appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.

Nearly 65 million Americans experience bladder leakage in one form or another, but bladder leakage doesn’t have to get in the way of living a confident, uninterrupted life. Not all incontinence products are designed with consumers in mind, but Depend® has found a way to personalize their products so that they offer better fit so I can exercise and go about my daily life, worry and leak-free. Added bonus? The briefs come in beige, black or lavender, allowing me to coordinate with any outfit!

Depend® brand understands the importance of finding a product that is right for your needs which is why from now until the end of the year or while supplies last, you can get $2 off the Depend® Silhouette® Active Fit® briefs and Depend® FIT-FLEX® underwear here.

Depend® Silhouette® Active Fit® Briefs

• The new, improved Depend® Silhouette® Active Fit® Briefs were designed with the same trusted protection and improved quality including a new look and better feel than the previous material.
• They feature a premium cotton-like fabric that’s now more breathable, plus a signature feminine style for an ultra-smooth, sleek fit under your clothes. With a wide variety of colors to choose from, including beige, black or lavender, Depend® Silhouette® Active Fit® Briefs allow you to coordinate with any outfit and the superabsorbent material keeps you protected throughout, helping provide you with comfort, style and confidence to rock any activity, anytime.
• Specially marked packages of Depend® Silhouette® Active Fit® Briefs will include two additional pairs through the end of the year. Packages note “2 Free.”

Depend® FIT-FLEX® Underwear

• Depend® FIT-FLEX® Underwear has the fastest absorbing material inside for dry, comfortable protection. Featuring all-around leg elastics and a smooth, close-to-body fit, this slip-on bladder leakage protection is soft, quiet and breathable for outstanding comfort.
• Better fit means better protection, comfort and confidence to continue living the life you love and doing the things you love – whether it be working out, going to a concert with friends or going on a date.
• Specially marked packages of Depend® FIT-FLEX® Underwear will include two additional pairs through the end of the year. Packages note “+2 Free.”

Don’t wait, bladder health is important and feeling comfortable and protected is too!  If you haven’t tried Depend® Silhouette® Active Fit® briefs and Depend® FIT-FLEX® underwear yet, now’s your chance! Now through the end of the year or while supplies last, you can get $2 off here. Not only are these comfortable and a fit great, but they look and feel like real underwear while giving you the protection you need. Plus there are now two extra products in each pack! Try them for yourself and let me know what you think.

Be sure to follow Depend® on:

Depend.com

Facebook.com/Depend,

Youtube.com/ kc10dependchannel

Pinterest.com/dependbrand

#ownyourgreatness

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Depend®. The opinions and text are all mine.

The post Depend Lets Me Continue to Live the Life I Love…Even During A Busy Holiday Season + Coupon appeared first on The Mama Maven Blog.