Engage Green: Recycled Paper Bag Purse

"Engage Green has an environmental commitment to the Earth and to future generations. We work hard to seek out earth-friendly materials and environmentally safe production processes that have low or no impact on the planet."





Engage Green designs are environmentally friendly as well as fashionable. Their beautiful designs are crafted from recycled and sustainable materials. Their line uses: Woven Recycled Paper, Recycled Plastic (PETE), Organic Cotton/Hemp and Cork


I received their Recycled Paper Brown/Blue Tulip Shoulder Bag Recycled.  It has plastic handles with a brown cotton lining and zip pocket and mobile holder. It is so light and you can wipe it clean with a wet cloth.
Bag dimension: 12" x 15" x 3". Handle length: 8".

Why this bag is a Mom's Best Bet:

*It has an Asian style and unique design
* It Uses recycled paper pulp which saves 60% to 70% of the energy used in the manufacturing process compared to using virgin pulp.
* The recycled paper manufacturing uses up to 55% less water that virgin pulp, and helps preserve our forests.
* Manufacturing with recycled paper reduces air emissions by 74% compared to virgin pulp manufacturing.

They also sell trays, umbrellas, and sweet coin purses. Visit them at:
http://www.engagegreen.com/



*Product provided for review purposes.  All opinions are Mom's Best Bets.

Where to find the Best Children's Bike

Where do you buy your children's bike at?  Adults that are interested in triathlon, mountain, or quality cruising usually choose to shop at at reputable bike shop.  But, what about children's bikes?
Well, not too long ago I bought a cute princess bike for my daughter at a popular department store.  It was almost $100 with tax and I regretted this purchase only after a week.
Here 's why:
*assembling took almost 2 hours
*the little bike was too heavy and not easy to pedal
*it easily tipped over
*a pedal fell off after 2 weeks

This is when I visited The Bike Shop Hawaii to buy a Specialized HotRock bike.  Yes, it costs a bit more but well worth it!  She will be riding this size for the next 2 years so it better be good. 

Why I like it:
*12" A1 Premium Aluminum coaster-style frame is light and low to the ground, with forward BB for an easy transition from a tricycle or bigwheel

*Alloy blade fork keeps the weight down and looks like a big kid's bike
*Lightweight alloy rims are tough enough for any curb-hopping adventure
*Specialized Rhythm Lite Sport tires will take a kid from the driveway to the dirt confidently
*BMX-style, 2-piece lightweight alloy handlebar puts kids in a comfortable and confident position
* Customer Service! They assemble it and will educate you. 
* Warranty for 1 year
*Free adjustments!
*Oh, and yes, it's pink and very stylish!
For all of my Hawaii readers are is some more about the Bike Shop Hawaii:

They have 3 locations in Honolulu, Kailua, and Aiea. From high-end road bikes streamlined for speed to reliable commuter bikes built for running errands or getting to work, you'll find these ends of the spectrum and everything in between.


Shipping your Bike to or from Hawaii?
If you live in the US you can ship your bicycle or bring it with you on the airplane. Most bicycle shops can box your bicycle and arrange for UPS or FedEx to pick it up. Once it arrives they will assemble, check and adjust it.
 
Bicycle rentals are also available 24 hrs a day.
Visit them at one of their locations today.  I would love to hear about your Bike Shop experience so let me know. 

The Tea Collection: Bohemian Peasant Styles for Fall

I love tea and not just the drinking kind.  The Tea collection is much like the drink, that is shared in many cultures offering inspiration, warmth and mindfulness. Their children’s fashions bare the tagline “for little citizens of the world,” celebrating the beauty found in cultures around the world.

Tea finds it's beauty through places around the world. Those colors, shapes, sounds, and movements found in these different cultures are exemplified in their pieces. 

What I like about Tea is that it is a unique and welcome breath of autumn air to my daughter's pink and ruffled wardrobe! Their clothing is not only fashionable but ultra soft, breathable and movable.  Yes, I am a big fan!

Below is a picture of one of their Tea Sets, where you can mix and match for boy's clothing and girl's clothing.

Kinga 5-Piece Set (Limited Edition)

Check out their stunning collections here: http://www.teacollection.com

Play It Safe: The Board Game plus free shipping!

"Every day, 17,000 children sustain injuries that could have been prevented; and preventable childhood injury is the leading cause of death and disability for kids ages 1 to 14."

The Play It Safe game can help prevent these tragedies while families have a fun game night together.

We sat down as a family to try out the Play It Safe family board game the other night. I thought that this would be fun for my daughter and teach her safety tips as well.  Of course, I assumed that my husband and I were there just to help her.  Boy, was I in for a surprise.  Yes, I got quite a few answers wrong as did my husband, so we learned as much or more than she did.  

"I can't believe that the surfer got this answer wrong!"

The game covers all pertinent issues dealing with safety, such as swimming, camping, fire, first aid, etc. This is a valuable, educational, and fun game designed for children and definitely for parents too. 


We had a great time playing this game and my daughter keeps asking to play it again.  My only recommendation is if you are playing with children younger than 6 to hand pick the questions ahead of time, otherwise they will likely get frustrated or possibly scared.  This is what we did and it worked out great. 
What it includes:

 *There are extra features like the fingerprint and DNA ID cards, fire escape plan, Internet interface, personal ID cards, and 1st-Aid guide.


*It's chock full of safety questions with detailed answers (300 for kids, 300 for adults) that really could save lives.


*We keep it fun for kids by making a third of their questions about wilderness survival and dangerous animals.


*Adults will be surprised at how much they don't know about safety - the kids will surely win! (Um, yes, this is what happened in our case:)


*It's green, using recycled paper and vegetable based ink --This is a Mom's Best Bet!
Guess what?  Play It Safe is offering a free shipping discount code for all Mom's Best Bets readers - frnship
* Product provided for review purposes and is a part of the Family Review Network.  All opinions are Mom's Best Bets.

Mom's Best Bets Monday!

There are so many great ideas, reviews, and giveaways going on around the blogosphere that it is hard to remember them all. There is something new going on here every Monday that you can be a part of.


Let's share our BEST BET on the Linky or in the comments section below. It could be something you read about, an outrageous recipe, or maybe a product that is outstanding, or an amazing giveaway that you want to share about.


Whatever your best bet is, please share below and we will choose a few to shine in the "Mom's Best Bets Spotlight!"


There were many Best Bets from last week. Here are some great ones to enter:

*Who doesn't love Target? Stop by EPM and win a Target gift certificate

*Visit Your Green Helper to win a bundle of Nature's Path organic goodies!

Kokopax Eco-Classic Carrier and Sun Hat Giveaway

Kokopax is a Mom's Best Bet!

About:

Kokopax was created by Sarah Spoor after she was introduced to the vintage lightweight carriers her parents had used to carry her in. They  recognized the amazing benefits of being able to carry their infants so easily and still take care of their other kids, cook, attend school activities and travel freely. She decided to take this carrier idea and modernize it with beautiful fabric pattern. This stylish, modern and lightweight framed infant carrier that can be used every day, everywhere is now known as Kokopax!

The Eco-Classic Carrier

This eco chic carrier is so convenient and fashionable, you will want to explore the city or do some early autumn hiking with it!  My favorite feature is that it only weighs 3 pounds!  I also love that your hands can be free for everyday chores. 

My friend uses hers for traveling and has bragged about how lovely it is to deal with on and off air flights, taxi cabs, and just strolling around new places.    

This is the premium carrier in the Kokopax line. It is also green because it incorporates the latest technology in green textile printing and consumer safety. This fashionable eco-classic carrier is comfortable and soft while also being safe.
I was amazed at how natural and comfortable it feels and was actually ready to brave hiking Diamond Head with it. It's also very safe, featuring a five-point harness, adjustable shoulder straps, sturdy kick stand, pocket with magnetic closure and a padded hip belt for added comfort. Babies are happy while you can be hands free for a while and accomplish all of things you need to do throughout your day!
Recommendations:
I really love it and my only tip would be to use it for short periods of time at home for the first few days.  Then,  increasing this time during walks etc.  before you take this carrier on a trip or vacation with little ones, especially if they are used to be carried in the front. 

Why I like it

*positions baby at eye-level for 360 degree world view (this is important for cognitive development) 
*really easy to load (even for dads)
*made with 100% cotton canvas (breathable)
*fabric is printed using a combination of Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 and GOTS certified dyes (Yes!)
*anodized aluminum frame (this equals lightweight)
*comfortable shoulder straps (they are thick and paded)
*adjustable frame to fit individual user (so everyone can take a turn)
*padded waist support
*hip belt for added comfort
*handy storage pocket with magnetic closure (great for toys and snacks)
*kickstand for easy loading
*5-pt. harness (for safety)
*toy ring to attach koko™ or other toys
*fits in airline overhead bins (great to travel with) 
*makes a great every day baby backpack that is great for indoors and outdoors!
*for use from 6 months to 2 years (or up to 35 pounds)
*includes cute koko carry bag



Kokopax not only carries the best carriers but toys, bags, and the cutest sunhats around!

Check out these sweet strap-on shades. Your baby can be protected from the sun and still have an awesome view and ride.  It's made of 100% cotton canvas  with a no-fuss chin strap and isavailable in sizes: 6-12 mos, 12-18 mos, 18-24 mos.
*Visit www.kokopax.com to see all of their fabulous merchandise.
Guess what?  When you do visit Kokopax you can use code momsbestbets2010 to receive a 10% discount on any order.
GIVEAWAY

Kokopax is giving away a Sun Hat to one Mom's Best Bets reader!!!!


TO ENTER: You must fan Kokopax and MBB on facebook.
EXTRA ENTRY:


1 Extra Entry -Subscribe by email
1 Extra Entry - Follow with GFC
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2 Extra Entry - Review Mom's Best Bets on Alexa
2 Extra Entries if you put my button up on your blog
2 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway linking back to me
*This contest ends 10/15 at 11:59 pm Pacific Time.
*A big Mahalo to Kokopax for sponsoring this giveaway!
*Product provided for review purposes. All opinions are Mom's Best Bets

Mommy's Lentil Soup

It's September and everyone is feeling the change in seasons. We change our clothes, our activities, and our food. Children are back in school and it's important to keep their immune systems strong. This is a recipe for my lentil soup that will warm your belly and give you lots of energy this autumn.

Lentils, a member of the legume family, absorb the flavors from seasonings readily and help with maintaining blood sugar. They are super easy to cook and contain important minerals such as, folate, magnesium, iron, protein, and rich in dietary fiber. With only around 200 calories for a whole cup of lentils, this is a superwoman kind of food!

Mommy's Lentil Soup
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1/2 chopped onion
1 1/2 cups of mushrooms
4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup of water
1 1/3 cups of lentils
1 sweet potato diced in small bite sized pieces
4 minced garlic cloves
2 carrots peeled and sliced
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp turmeric
2 tbsp basil


Heat olive oil and saute onion, garlic, and mushrooms in a sauce pan. Stir in broth, water, lentils, potato, and bay leaf and simmer for about 30 minutes (or until the lentils are tender) Take out the bay leaf and season with the spices, salt, and pepper. You may need to add more water depending on consistency. Enjoy!

Wireless Outdoor Mission-Style Lamp Speaker

AR AW850 Wireless Outdoor Speaker with Lamp

Entertaining outdoors is a favorite of mine.  The other night we had some friends over and we had a lovely cookout on our lanai.  I was overjoyed to be able to try out the outdoor speakers from Acoustic Research /AudioVox.  It is an outdoor wall lantern and wireless speaker.   The mission style lantern design is really an elegant touch and matched our patio setting perfectly.  I just attached my iPod and viola, there was jazz music to set the mood for a perfect September evening.  The sound was clear and loud and it was very easy to use.  

This convenient wireless speaker and wall lamp in one is also weather resistant.
*Compatible with iPhone or iPod
*Sleek, portable design
*Sends quality audio up to 150 feet away
*Add multiple units to expand your music experience
*Push button auto lock tuning
*Two way acoustic design
*2 inch tweeter and 3 inch woofer for quality sound
*Internal 5 watt RMS
*Lantern speaker operates with supplied AC outlet box
*Automatic level control
*Three selectable broadcast frequencies on transmitter

**Includes 1 speaker, transmitter, AC power adapter, mini stereo adapter, mounting kit, and manual



Buy it here for  $129.99
*Product provided for review purposes.  All opinions are Mom's Best Bets

Sockwa: Extra Skin for your Feet

Sockwa. Tread Earth Lightly.

Living in Hawaii, I have learned it's important to protect your feet.  My feet are always exposed to the elements, be it hot sand, the ocean, or slippery rocks.  There is also venomous  Wana and sharp coral  here that you don't want to step on when exploring the reef.   Sockwa is a stylish way to protect your tootsies from every imaginable environment and terrain.

This is me climbing some rocks to get to a secret tide pool

The Sockwa Amphibian, the Sockwa Dojo, and the Original Sockwa Playa are their styles that combine ultra-thin sole technology with stretchable, form fitting uppers
I tried the Naked Amphibian and Pink Playa Sockwa shoes.  The Naked Amphibian is a true indoor/outdoor second skin.

Both Sockwa styles feel like a sock, especially the Playa.  I use the Playa on grass, sand and in the pool.  The Amphibian I wear for exploring the reef because it has a thicker TPU sole.
It is a breathable mesh, and fleece throughout.
Breathable, Crushable, and Washable. This is a Mom's Best Bets
**Please note that the sizing on Amphibians run small, so please choose 1/2 - 1 size larger than most shoes for a comfortable fit.

The Pink Playa is a much thinner and flexible shoe with cutting edge engineering and avant-garde SoCal design, the original Sockwa Playa Lo-Cut has blossomed into the most comfortable and sexy beach shoe in the world. It is light enough to wear around the house but protective enough to wear to the beach as well.  The Playa is my favorite for comfort, fit, and style!  However, the Amphibian is a close second because the thicker sole makes it a better pick for activities that you would need this added benefit.

Mysterious Islands DVD Review

The Mysterious Islands DVD
By: Douglas W. Phillips, Dr. John Morris, Joshua Phillips

Join in on a journey to the Galapagos with 16-year-old Joshua Phillips, his father, and Dr. John Morris as they dispel the Darwin theory and prove the biblical creation account. This documentary is a 90 minute expedition with beautiful footage of  sharks, lava fields, iguanas, and many other stunning nature shots. They use the word "adapted" not "evolved" to explain the changes in the animals there.   In one piece they looked at finches and stated that: "Clearly the finches have "adapted," but that simply doesn't constitute evidence for evolution, since the changes haven't even crossed the species barrier. The finches are still finches. Most of these 13 species couldn't be classified as "separate species" under the standard definition of "species." Referring to them as various sub-species' is more accurate, negating the evolutionists' efforts to deduce macro-evolution from mere adaptation."

My whole family enjoyed this educational film that supports that there is a creator and that we were all fearfully and wonderfully made. 

Frankincense and Lavender Aluminum Free Deoderants Giveaway

Shopping for deodorant can be daunting considering all of the talk surrounding aluminum.  Which are safe and which are not?  Also, which work?  I have bought a few natural brands that I was okay with, but then Tropical Traditions came to my rescue and has wowed me again with their three Natural Deodorants. 
They are chemical-free, paraben-free, and aluminum-free deodorant roll-ons made from their popular organic Virgin Coconut Oil as their base. 
This sensitive and absorbent area needs natural ingredients.

Classic: purified water, organic Virgin Coconut Oil, organic jojoba, plant based emulsifying wax, grapefruit seed extract, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and organic essential oils of rosewood, geranium, cedarwood, and patchouly.

Lavender: purified water, organic Virgin Coconut Oil, organic jojoba, plant based emulsifying wax, grapefruit seed extract, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and organic essential oils of lavender, lemon, and rosemary.

Frankincense: purified water, organic Virgin Coconut Oil, organic jojoba, plant based emulsifying wax, grapefruit seed extract, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and essential oils of wildcrafted frankincense and sandalwood.

My favorite is the Frankincense scent.  All three are very mild and dissipate quickly.  They are very effective in keeping you fresh and dry. 
Tropical Traditions is giving away these 3 deodorants to one Mom's Best Bets reader!


TO ENTER Visit Tropical Traditions and tell me what other product that you like and why.


EXTRA ENTRY:


2 Extra Entry-Review Me on Alexa
1 Extra Entry- Follow Me with Google friend connect
1 Extra Entry -subscribe to Mom's Best Bets
1 Extra Entry -subscribe by email
1 Extra Entry-sign up for TT's newsletter
1 Extra Entry - Follow me on Facebook
1 Extra Entry - Follow me on Twitter and tweet for extra chances
3 Extra Entries if you put my button up on your blog.
3 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway linking back to me
*Giveaway ends on 9/30 at 11:59 pm Pacific Time. Winner will be notified via email.Open to US and Canada only.
*Disclaimer: Tropical Traditions provided me a sample of this product to review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway

EO French Lavender Bath Gift Set Giveaway

I cannot say enough fabulous things about EO organic and natural products. I first discovered them from my Whole Foods Market. They have complimentary wipes upon entering their store. I always look forward to the amazing lavender smell of the EO hand wipes.



After checking out their website, I found that they carry lots of products, including lotions, shampoos, and soaps. I couldn't wait to try their USDA organic hand sanitizer and liquid foaming hand soaps. The smell is clean and wonderful and it is Sodium Lauryl, Laureth Sulfate, and Paraben Free.
 

Mandarin Spice Limited Edition Hand Soap

Reminiscent of the autumn season, this soap has a citrus tea scent with fragrant mandarin essential oil.  The Cinnamon and Cloves are warming but a pleasant smell. I keep it in my bathroom and I like that it isn't drying.

Meyer Lemon & Sage Liquid Hand Soap

It has a refreshing Meyer Lemon scent that I keep in my kitchen.  Tart and fragrant citrus oils are the heart and soul of this signature Myer Lemon blend.




Although I like both of these soaps, my favorite is EO's signature lavender scented products like their Serenity French Lavender Bath Gift Set, which includes French Lavender Bubble Bath and French Lavender Bath Salt.


EO is giving away this set to one Mom's Best Bet Reader!



GIVEAWAY *Product provided for review purposes. All opinions are Mom's Best Bets

TO ENTER: You must follow with Google friend Connect and then tell me who you would give this set to

EXTRA ENTRY:

2 Extra Entry -subscribe by email
2 Extra Entry - Fan MBB on Facebook
2 Extra Entry - Follow MBB and EO on Twitter and tweet daily for extra chances
2 Extra Entry - Review Mom's Best Bets on Alexa .com
3 Extra Entries if you put my button up on your blog
2 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway linking back to me

*This contest ends 10/11 at 11:59 pm Pacific Time.

Gabriel's Clean Kids

I am always on the lookout for safe and effective products to keep kids clean minus the unnecessary chemicals.  Gabriel Cosmetics is a well known cosmetics company that has a children's line called
Clean Kids. 

Why I like Clean Kids:

* Organic
* No Sulfates
* No Parabens
* Gluten/Wheat Free
* No Phthalates
* No Fluoride/Glycol
* No Lanolin
* No Petrolatum
* No Mineral Oils
* No Artificial Colors
* Cruelty Free
Products that we use:

Banana Smoothie Detangler conditions while gently separating unruly tangles. Kiwi extract and hydrolyzed wheat protein strengthen from the damaging effects of sun exposure, chlorine and frequent brushing. A special botanical essential oil blend leaves hair silky, soft and shining. It also has a fun banana

 scent that my daughter likes.
Shampoo Orange and deep cleansing lime is a gentle shampoo that also cleans effectively.  Purified seawater and birch leaf extract have mildly stimulating effect and are excellent for balancing both hair and scalp. 

Tiny Bubbles Foaming Bath is a such a sweet name for a fragrance of Linden Blossom.  Watermelon adds freshness and gently conditions young skin.  Soapwort Extract is the source of the bubbles for this all natural foam bath. This is my daughter's favorite product.

Germ busting Soap  has fennel extract that safely washes away harmful bacteria on small, active hands.  It also contains aloe vera to help calm minor skin irritations.
*Product provided for review purposes. All opinions are Mom's Best Bets

Mom's Best Bets Monday!

There are so many great ideas, reviews, and giveaways going on around the blogosphere that it is hard to remember them all. There is something new going on here every Monday that you can be a part of.

Let's share our BEST BET on the Linky or in the comments section below. It could be something you read about, an outrageous recipe, or maybe a product that is outstanding, or an amazing giveaway that you want to share about.
Whatever your best bet is, please share below and we will choose a few to shine in the "Mom's Best Bets Spotlight!"


There were many Best Bets from last week. Here are some great ones to enter:

*Stop by momtrends to win some kid cuteture!


*Bop over to babybix to win a sweet organic magnetic-bug-table!

*Visit The Sits Girls and win a 4,000 washer and dryer!

Top Quality Stay at Embassy Suites Waikiki

Everyone asks me where the best place to stay in Waikiki is.  Our favorite hotel is the Embassy Suites Waikiki.
Here's why? 
* SPACE
* quality
* the price
* steps away from Waikiki Beach
* located on Beach Walk that has the best dining and shopping
* Hawaiian hospitality is in abundance
* amenities, amenities, amenities
* cleanliness
* delicious breakfast buffet
* nightly reception
* the view
* heated pool
* Did I mention extra space?

Visit Embassy Suites Waikiki for more information and some great prices and specials available for your next stay.

Organic Peanut Butter, Jelly, and Fruit Sauce Cups from Santa Cruz

I love a good peanut butter and jelly sandwich, but it has to be organic with the right amount of sweet and salty.  Santa Cruz Organics make an array of peanut butter and fruit spreads that will satisfy your sweet and salty tooth!

I am not a stranger to Santa Cruz Organics.  My family drinks their delicious organic juice but I was in love with their crunchy light peanut butter. The Santa Cruz Organic brand peanut butters are offered in both light and dark roasted, creamy and crunchy varieties. I like that they contain no hydrogenated oils, no added sugars and no artificial ingredients.
 

Of course you need a good fruit spread that tastes like fruit to complete your sandwich.  Too often, commercial jams taste like sugar and it's hard to identify the fruit flavor.  Their seedless red raspberry is my favorite and the strawberry is my daughter's top pick.  They are truly decadent.  I know that decadent is a strong word to describe jelly, but you have to try it for yourself. 

My daughter loves to take their organic fruit sauce with her for a snack after dance class.  The new apple peach sauce cups are so yummy but they also offer cinnamon and spices and pureed organic fruits such as blackberries, cherries, strawberries and apricots.


You get 100% of your daily value of vitamin C in each 4-ounce serving of the sauce cups - perfect for kids' lunch boxes with no added sugar!

Their plight to raise awareness about the benefits of organic agriculture is admirable.



How do they do it?
"Each year we buy enough renewable energy to produce our entire line of products, and we are an official Green-E certified business. We've even reduced the waste that we create, recycling an amazing 96% of our refuse, which earned us a prestigious WRAP award."
This post was written for Family Review Network & Santa Cruz Organic who provided the complimentary product for review in exchange for my honest opinions.

Mom's Best Bets Monday!

There are so many great ideas, reviews, and giveaways going on around the blogosphere that it is hard to remember them all. There is something new going on here every Monday that you can be a part of.
Let's share our BEST BET on the Linky or in the comments section below. It could be something you read about, an outrageous recipe, or maybe a product that is outstanding, or an amazing giveaway that you want to share about.

Whatever your best bet is, please share below and we will choose a few to shine in the "Mom's Best Bets Spotlight!"
There were many Best Bets from last week. Here are some great ones to enter:

* The succulent wife is giving away a kyocera-ceramic-knife set


* Sail over to The simple things blog to win shutterfly stationary

* Win a Britax Frontier Car Seat right here

Rock and Learn Phonics DVD Review

Music is a powerful tool for learning!  It is amazing how when information is set to a tune, it allows you to make a mnemonic device that sticks in your memory.  Okay, I will stop the teacher talk, but this technique needs to be used more, especially with older children. 
I recently sang the "months of the year" to my daughter.  By the second day she knew every month because she could sing the song.

Rock'n Learn DVD's knows how to captivate children with song.
Rock ’N Learn programs help students learn math, phonics, reading, early childhood, social studies, Spanish, test-taking strategies, writing, and science. Their DVDs are filled with cool music and colorful imagery.
They have won many awards- Dr. Toy and Parents Choice to name a few.

I am so excited to have been able to review and now share with you about their Phonics DVD's. Practicing the phonics skills can now be  fun.   There are cool songs and humorous characters.   I like that the child can control the pace and that there is a delayed response to give them time to answer.

Students learn phonics rules through fun songs and word families. Next, they practice their skills by reading simple phrases using words that rhyme. When ready, students apply the skills they have learned to read complete sentences and stories. The read-along stories on this DVD are presented at a slow pace for beginning readers. As students practice, they also work on fluency by singing along with songs about the stories.  A bonus section presents the stories at a normal pace to help students learn to read fluently.

They have DVD's appropriate from age 2 to beyond age 10
These phonics videos pictured above are for ages 6 and up.  My daughter has learned some great new skills this week thanks to Rock and Learn!
Approx. 70 minutes.
Phonics Volume 1 and 2 sells for $34.99
*Product provided for review purposes.  This review is part of the FRN campaign.  All opinions are Mom's Best Bets.

The George Forman Evolve Can Grill-Bake-Muffin

Grilling or baking your vegetables and meat is a lot healthier in comparison to frying them.   

We love to grill but do not like to use our oven too much because in Hawaii it's just too plain hot!  Also, it is a pain to clean.  This is why I love my new George Forman Evolve. The new Evolve™ Grill - Bake - Muffin George Forman is a sleek and compact appliance that does it all!

It lets me grill steak, bake muffins and vegetarian lasagna all on one grill.
The Evolve™ Grill • Bake • Muffin starts with 4 plates – 2 grill plates, 1 deep-dish bake pan and 1 cupcake & muffin pan insert – then lets you build your collection with up to 7 additional plates available.

I love that the counters don't have to be cluttered and there is no need for a lot of extra appliances.

We were having a cookout with a few friends and decided to try it out.  My husband made steak and veggie skewers and prior to that cooked lasagna.  We were a bit nervous about how the lasagna would turn out.  When it was ready and cooled I was pleased to see that it had cooked to perfection and no messy oven to clean, just a pan that could go into the dishwasher!  Our guests joked that when we come to their house we should bring our evolve for them so that their kitchen doesn't get dirty!

I have yet to try the cupcake pan insert but my daughter's birthday is right around the corner, so I am going to do a muffin test next week.

 Features:
*It has a patented sloped design that lets fat and unwanted grease drain away as you cook..healthier
*Adjustable angle hanges the cooking surface from flat for even cooking to our patented slope for healthier grilling
*George Tough™ nonstick coating allows you to cook oil-free, plus minimizes cleanup...ahhh  
*Digital time & temperature control lets you easily set and monitor cooking for precise results on a variety of foods
*Extra-high floating hinge adjusts automatically to the thickness of food to perfectly press thick cuts of meat and stuffed Panini ...mmm I can't wait to make a panini!
*Embedded heating elements provide even heat from the center to the sides of the plate and faster temperature recovery
*Custom drip tray catches fat and grease as you cook, then empties easily for fast cleanup
*Custom spatula offers easy serving without scratching the nonstick surface
*Dishwasher-safe removable plates & accessories make cleanup a breeze-wow
Buy it: GeorgeFormanCooking.com for $129.99
*Disclaimer: Product provided for review purposes and is a part of The Family Review Network evolve campaign.  All opinions are solely Mom's Best Bets