Hip Hop Dance Wii Game Review #UBIChamps

Thank you to Ubisoft for sponsoring this post. Please visit Ubi.com to learn more about Ubisoft. I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective. #UbiChamps
 
During the holidays as our family gets together, we love to play games. I was excited when I was given the opportunity to review the new Hip Hop Dance Experience game for the Wii. We're definitely not a very coordinated family so it was a laugh off to see how we tried to maneuver ourselves with some old school songs.

 I loved the variety of Hip Hop songs we could choose from. There were some old school ones from Naughty by Nature to current hits by Chris Brown. It was fun remembering the hits.

Like I said trying to recreate the moves was a bit of a task but it definitely had our hearts pumping. The game kept everyone in hysterics.

Game Synopsis:
From Run-DMC to Chris Brown, Rob Base to Nicki Minaj – this is the first dance game with a tracklist dedicated to the withcoolest genre in music. With moves developed by celebrity choreographers Laurieann Gibson (Nicki Minaj Creative Director, BET’s Born to Dance) and Dave Scott (So You Think You Can Dance, Battle of the Year), dance like a true artist to 30 years’ worth of hip-hop’s biggest hits.
Trigger lavish visual effects as you progress through the game. Master professional-level choreography with 3 difficulty levels for each song. Experience the world of hip-hop through music, dance, and design.
With a variety of unique game modes, including fun multiplayer parties and dance battles, The Hip Hop Dance Experience is the ultimate way to drop it like it’s hot with all your favorite hits.

 I highly suggest this game if you have a large group that likes to have a good time. It definitely is harder than most dance games but its the challenge that makes it enjoyable. If you're a hip hop fan you won't be disappointed by the musical selection. It's like having Hot 97 right in your home live!

The Guilt Trip -NYC Screening 12/17

Next week I will attend a screening of The Guilt Trip, starring Seth Rogen & the amazing Barbara Streisand. I have seen the previews & it looks hysterical. I'm eager to see this especially since its about the bond between a mother & son which I can relate to all too well. I feel that the bonds between sons/moms are different than daughters/moms. My ever growing fear is that Andre will leave me one day for another "woman" in his life and I'm not sure how I would handle that. I'm sure after seeing this film it will only make me want to build a stronger yet fun bond with him.

Synopsis

Andy Brewster is about to embark on the road trip of a lifetime, and who better to accompany him than his overbearing mother Joyce. After deciding to start his adventure with a quick visit at mom’s, Andy is guilted into bringing her along for the ride. Across 3,000 miles of ever-changing landscape, he is constantly aggravated by her antics, but over time he comes to realize that their lives have more in common than he originally thought. His mother’s advice might end up being exactly what he needs.

Check out this preview trailer:

Hilarious right? I don't think they could've picked a better comedic duo. They seem to mesh well together.

His mom seems to embarass him more often than not. Who's mom doesn't do that on a normal basis? I know my mom has a few times but I love her for that. Recently we've tried to teach my mom how to text message on her phone. She's always complaining how her phone sucks or she never gets the message. Well come to find out, she didn't know the little envelope icon on her phone were messages she never opened up! Duh!

Has your mom ever embarassed you? Or do you have a special recipe that your mom has passed down to you? Share with me by commenting below. You may be eligible to win a prize from the movie!

If you're in the NYC area on December 17 at 7pm you can attend the screening of The Guilt Trip.

Log on to www.gofobo.com enter RSVP code MBLOGSK194

The Guilt Trips opens in theaters nationwide on Wednesday 12/19/12 just in time for the holidays!

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. All opinions expressed are my own.

Assassin's Creed III #AC3Gold

Thank you to Ubisoft for sponsoring this post. Please visit Amazon.com to get your own copy of Assassin's Creed 3, today's Gold Box Deal of the Day! I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective. All opinions are my own.

The one present my husband has asked for this Christmas is a video game. Not just any old video game either. He doesn't play games but when he does it's always Assassin's Creed. He can play that for hours on end. Our son has even gotten interested in it but its too mature for him right now. I won't allow him to play it. He just watches Dad assassinate the "bad guys" as he says. I've even found myself sitting by him & watching.

What's interesting about this game is that it takes place in several past time settings such as the Renaissance Era. You are brought into a different world in the 15th & 16th centuries. This is what my husband enjoys the most. The details are intricate. You really feel like you've left modern times & have gone off to another world. I have to admit the main character Desmond, well he's a hottie for a video game.

On October 30th, Ubisoft launched the newest edition Assassin's Creed III. Hubby couldn't be more excited about it. We are introduced to Connor, the warrior son of a Native American mother & British father. The game is set during the Revolutionary War, 1775.

Synopsis
The year is 1775. The American colonies are about to revolt. You are Connor, an assassin who has sworn to secure liberty for his people and his nation. To do so, you will hunt your enemies across a staggeringly large, open, and realistic world. You will unleash your lethal skills in a violent quest that will take you from chaotic city streets to blood-soaked battlefields in the hostile American wilderness and beyond. You will meet legendary heroes of American history, and together you will conspire to annihilate those who threaten Liberty itself. Whether you use your predatory instincts to kill silently, or your fearsome arsenal to kill openly, one thing is clear: the world that the Assassins live in has become far more deadly. And so have you.

If you've never played Assassin's Creed, don't worry! This newest version makes it a perfect entry point for beginners.  I know my husband can't wait to play. I'm pretty sure its going to dominate our Christmas Day. I can't wait to surprise him with this. It's going to be a great gift!

Amazon will have a Gold Box deal of the day just in time to make that holiday purchase for someone special. Don't miss your chance to purchase it.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I will receive a copy of the game. All opinions are 100% my own.

 

Activision Lalaloopsy Carnival of Friends 3DS #GIVEAWAY

Last year's hot Christmas toy of the season for girls was Lalaloopsy. The dolls are so cute that I just want to buy one for myself. Well Lalaloopsy is back with a new Nintendo 3DS game, Lalaloopsy Carnival of Friends.

Game Overview

Peanut Big Top is throwing the biggest Silly Funhouse carnival in Lalaloopsy Land for all to enjoy, including a special treat at the end! It’s up to you to find all of the Lalaloopsy friends at the carnival to reveal the BIG surprise!

Features

• Play with 40 different Lalaloopsy friends!
• Explore 16 whimsical levels including the Silly Funhouse Park.
• For the first time ever, play with the Lalaloopsy siblings, the Lalaloopsy Littles!

GIVEAWAY

One person will win the following Lalaloopsy Prize Pack

-Lalaloopsy Carnival of Friends 3DS game

-Mini Lalaloopsy Crumbs Sugar Cookie

 Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I received a gift bag from Activision Family Game Summit. All opinions are 100% my own. Giveaway ends 12/17 US only. Winner has 24 hours to respond to email otherwise another winner will be selected.

Just Dance 4 Review #CleverJD4

Thank you to Ubisoft for sponsoring this post. Please click here to learn more about Ubisoft. I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective. #UbiChamps

My son & I love to listen to music & dance. When I was given the opportunity to review Just Dance 4 we were ecstatic. There are so many of our favorite songs on it, such as Flo Rida's "Good Feeling" and One Direction's "What Makes You Beautiful" which made it difficult to choose which one.  Lately my son has gotten "Bieber fever" so when he saw "Beauty & the Beat" as an option, he immediately chose it.

He really thinks he's Justin! LOL This new version has so many great features on it. My favorite has to be the battle mode. My son & I can have a battle to see who has the best moves.

Game features:

• Top Of The Charts - Just Dance 4 has over 40 all-new songs, ranging from current Billboard hits, legendary favorites, and classic dance party tracks!
• Just Dance-Off! - Challenge your friends in 6 rounds of dance battles with the all-new battle mode!
• Bring Your Crew - Each player can get his own moment of fame with unique choreographies and moves for each member of your dance crew.
• Just Sweat It Out - The popular Just Sweat mode gets a major upgrade with brand new workout sessions, personalized programs, live feedbacks and a real calorie counter.

My family can't wait to play it on Christmas. We are especially excited about being able to download "Gangnam Style" to our game! Its going to be a very interesting holiday!

You can purchase Just Dance 4 for the Wii, Playstation 3, Nintendo Wii U, or XBox 360 Kinect on Amazon

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I received a copy of the game to facilitate this review.
 

Disney Pixar BRAVE DVD #GIVEAWAY

This year Disney released its much anticipated film BRAVE. I love Disney movies but life isn't always happily ever after which they seem to always portray. I was hoping that this film would be different. It was! Brave is about a young girl Merida who fights traditions and follows her heart. She's rebellious and strong willed. She doesn't want to follow in her mother's ways of marriage & becoming a housewife. Merida would rather create her own destiny.

Synopsis
Merida is a skilled archer and impetuous daughter of King Fergus (Billy Connolly) and Queen Elinor (Emma Thompson). Determined to carve her own path in life, Merida defies an age-old custom sacred to the uproarious lords of the land: massive Lord MacGuffin (Kevin McKidd), surly Lord Macintosh (Craig Ferguson) and cantankerous Lord Dingwall (Robbie Coltrane). Merida's actions inadvertently unleash chaos and fury in the kingdom, and when she turns to an eccentric old Witch (Julie Walters) for help, she is granted an ill-fated wish. The ensuing peril forces Merida to discover the meaning of true bravery in order to undo a beastly curse before it's too late. -- (C) Disney
If you weren't able to catch it in theaters this summer, its now on DVD release. Its a great movie to have in your collections. Even though I don't have any daughters, my son loved this movie. He was impressed with Merida's archery skills and he loved her triplet brothers. The movie is fun for all!

One reader will win their own BRAVE dvd!

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. All opinions expressed are 100% my own. 

Giveaway ends 11:59pm 12/13/12. Winner has 48 hours to respond otherwise another winner will be selected.

FACEBOOK REFERRAL #GIVEAWAY

Enter my FACEBOOK REFERRAL GIVEAWAY!

Refer your friends to like  BoyzRuleOurWorld's Facebook page. Share this post, tweet it, or do what you like to get your friends to like us. Have them leave a comment with the name of who referred them. The person with the most referrals will win 

Angry Birds Trilogy Xbox Kinect Video Game

Synopsis:
Angry Birds Trilogy is the ultimate living room version of the worldwide phenomenon, brought to life in stunning high definition for the big screen and consoles. Trilogy is a compilation of the award winning Angry Birds, Angry Birds Seasons and Angry Birds Rio games plus new content that will lead to endless hours of fun. With a combined 1 billion downloads, Angry Birds has been called “one of the most mainstream games out right now” and “one of the great runaway hits of 2010. They are finally taking flight and for the first time ever, they’re crashing on game consoles everywhere. Features include: Classic, comical, and addictive gameplay; 3 Best-Selling Angry Birds Games in 1 (including Angry Birds, Angry Birds Seasons, Angry Birds Rio); 19 episodes—each with an exclusive, new level; new Achievements and Trophies. Become a Bird Slinger, Banana Fanatic or the Grinch with new HD Animated cut scenes and Kinect and Move support.

Giveaway ends 11:59pm 12/10/12 US Only

Only refers to new likes of the page. Must be a fan at the end of the giveaway.
Any deletions will be deducted to the final tally.

Good Luck!

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post.

Zumba Core Fitness Challenge Week 4

After last week's failure I was determined to finish up this last week with a bang. I have to say I did my best! I reminded myself each day my goal for this journey. It's too motivate myself and my family to start working out. I started out on Weight Watchers prior to the summer and I was doing so well on it. Then I somehow fell off track and its been horrible. With this its brought back the feeling that I had when I started losing weight. A feeling of accomplishment.

Outcome
What  I loved the most about this challenge is that I saw how unhealthy I have become. I am definitely out of shape but I realize that working out can be fun. Zumba Fitness Core is a fun way of becoming healthy. I won't say that it helps you entirely lose weight, but it will help you create a routine for you and give you an energy that is needed if you're a couch potato like me.

Zumba Fitness Core is available for purchase at Amazon and your local retailers. Try it out for yourself if you're looking to start a workout regime. This will give you the motivation to a better you.

Disclosure: I was given the video game to facilitate the 4 week challenge. I was not compensated for this post. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

Bratz Boutique Doll & Nintendo 3DS #GIVEAWAY

Who doesn't love dolls? Growing up I was a HUGE Barbie fan. I had to have every doll that came out. I remember my mom taking me to the department store, Gimbels to let me buy a doll. I had a bag to carry them all. I loved them until I got a little older & starting demonstrating my skills as a hair stylist. LOL Thankfully I had a career change along the way.
Well now the new generations of dolls are the Bratz. These high fashioned gals Yasmin, Cloe, Jade & Sasha exemplify confidence & a sense of style. They launched in 2001 and have taken command by every little girl. I wish I had a reason to buy them just so I can play with them but I don't think Andre would want his Ninja Turtles mixed up with ladies.

Recently while I attended the Activision Family Game Summit, one of the games we were shown was the newest Nintendo 3DS Bratz Fashion Boutique. Some of the features of this new game are:

• Play as your favorite Bratz™; Cloe™, Yasmin™, Sasha™ and Jade™ and run their own fashion boutiques!
• Create your own trendy, custom outfits in the Workshop Mini-games and sell them to earn more money!
• Be the newest “It” thing in Stylesville with the latest trends!
• Put on the hottest Fashion Shows and raise your fame to attract more customers, maybe even some celebrity Bratz!
• Unlock exclusive content using QR-codes found on the Bratz Boutique™, Chic Mystique™ and Style Starz™ toylines!

Of course along with the game you gotta have the doll! Bratz Boutique Angel Cloe & Co. comes with a register, a scanner that really beeps, extra outfits & accessories.The packaging transforms into a boutique playset. Its tons of fun for every little girl.

  Do you love both items? Do you know someone who would love these for Christmas? 

 Well one (1) BoyzRuleOurWorld reader will win both!

-Nintendo 3DS Bratz Fashion Boutique game

-Bratz Boutique Angel Cloe & Co doll

Giveaway ends 11:59pm 12/15/12. US only 

One winner will be selected via Rafflecopter. Winner has 24 hours to respond via a valid email address. If no response, then another winner will be selected.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I attended an Activision event & given a gift bag. All opinions are 100% my own.

Kidtoons Presents: Barbie Princess & the Pop Star

As you know by now, we're big fans of the Kidtoon programs at the National Amusement theaters. They are affordable family friendly matinee films. I am sad to say that this month's feature Barbie Princess & the Pop Star will be their last. Over the last 9 years they have entertained families nationwide with Thomas the Tank, Curious George, Barbie, The Care Bears and much more. We are very upset to see them end but look forward to their new kid programs will launch in the future (end of 2013 or 2014). Until then, thank you Kidtoons for giving families the opportunities to take their children to the movies at an affordable price. We will miss you!

This month Kidtoons presents Barbie Princess & the Pop Star

Synopsis

In this sparkling musical adventure, Barbie™ stars as Tori™, the kind-hearted princess of Meribella who would rather sing and dance than perform her royal duties. When her favorite pop star Keira™ visits the kingdom, the girls discover they have much in common, including a magical secret that lets them look like one another. At first, swapping places seems like a great idea, until each girl realizes that the other’s life isn’t as easy as it seems! But Meribella also has a magical secret, and when it’s stolen, the whole kingdom is put in danger. Will true friendship save the day? Filled with fantastic songs, fabulous fashions, and fun new friends, it’s an exciting musical celebration that shows the best thing you can be is yourself.

As always, Kidtoons is offering BOGO that is good at any of our theaters nationwide. (Good for one per family.) http://www.kidtoonfilms.com/Promotion/FREE_KidtoonsTicket.pdf

Thanks to Kidtoons we have a giveaway! One lucky reader will win

 1 11" Barbie The Princess and The Pop Star Tori Doll
RETAIL VALUE: $25.99

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. All reviews are 100% my own.

Kids Foot Locker Play It Loud

Kids Foot Locker has kicked off another great round of giveaways on their site, just in time for the holidays! Go & enter now for your chance to win!

 Our holiday season is officially underway! Our PLAY IT LOUD Sweepstakes is up at facebook.com/kidsfootlocker through Dec. 17. With four new holiday color combinations, the Chuck Taylor All Star Crayola Converse PC Strap is available in Infant, Preschool, and Grade School sizes ($42-$52) only at Kids Foot Locker and kidsfootlocker.com. You can enter for a chance to win
the entire collection, a $500 Kids Foot Locker gift card and awesome Crayola products. And if you enter your Kids Foot Locker VIP number, you can double your chances of winning. Signing up as a VIP is free -kidsfootlocker.com/vip.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post.

Skylanders Giants Starter Pack WII #GIVEAWAY

My son & I are huge fans of Skylanders Spryo's Adventure. We have about every Skylander figure. Its the one video game that he constantly plays & enjoys. Recently when I attended the Activision Family Game Summit, Skylanders Giants was on the must have list for family gaming. I knew this was going to be a must have for the holidays.

Skylanders Giants™ builds upon the breakthrough fundamentals of the Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure™—merging the physical and virtual realms with an innovative line of cross-platform toys with “brains,” which players everywhere can magically bring to life in the world of Skylands.
Using the mystical Portal of Power®, players once again lead a team of heroic Skylanders in an all new adventure to save their world. Portal Masters will journey through new areas of Skylands, encountering new enemies, solving fun puzzles, overcoming different hazards and obstacles, and finding a variety of collectable rewards and treasure.
Skylanders Giants introduces sixteen new characters to build on the magic of Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure, including super-sized Giants with powers to match, as well as the new LightCore™ Skylanders that light-up in the game and in the real-world as players’ transport them to Skylands using the Portal of Power that builds on the magic of the toys. Additionally, the game features new Hero Challenges, more Battle Mode gameplay, and advanced integration across console, handheld, mobile and Skylanders Universe^.

KEY FEATURES:

• Giants: More than twice the size of regular Skylanders, the Giants use their colossal scale and power to battle enemies, solve unique puzzles, and interact in the game world like never before!
  

• LightCore Skylanders: Amplifying the real-world magic of bringing toys to life, Skylanders Giants introduces the LightCore Skylanders that light-up in the game world and in the real world as players’ transport them into Skylands using the Portal of Power. LightCore Skylanders feature additional in-game benefits, and require no batteries!
  

• Brand New Skylanders: New Skylanders join the adventure in Skylanders Giants each equipped with their own unique personality, powers, and abilities that kids are sure to love!
  

• Series 2 Skylanders: Fan-favorite Skylanders from Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure return in an all new way in Skylanders Giants! Each Series 2 Skylander features an all new “Wow Pow” upgrade power, as well as the choice of more than one upgrade path! Fans can even play with their Series 2 Skylanders in Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure!
  

• Forward Compatibility: All of the beloved characters from Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure are 100% compatible with Skylanders Giants, each of their abilities and upgrades intact. Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure characters can even increase their level cap from Level 10 to Level 15 in Skylanders Giants!
  

• Wider Worlds: Portal Masters will see all new arenas and additional gameplay options in Battle Mode for exciting head-to-head play, as well as enhanced Elemental Zones, new Hero Challenges, and other features that encourage players to collect and level-up every character. Skylanders Giants also features closer integration with Skylanders Universe - the large online world that allows Portal Masters everywhere to greatly expand their Skylanders experience.
  

Publisher: Activision Publishing, Inc.

ESRB Rating: E10+ for Mild Cartoon Violence

 ^{I can't wait for Andre to open this up on Christmas so we can play! I haven't been this excited about a game since Pacman.} 

^{I hope to make one of my readers just as excited! I have a WII Skylanders Giants Starter Pack to giveaway!}

The pack includes:

-video game

-portal of power

-3 Skylanders figures

-character poster

-trading cards

-sticker sheets with secret codes

ARV $74.99

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. All opinions expressed are 100% my own. Winner will be notified via email & has 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. Prize will be shipped to a valid US address. Giveaway ends 12/8/12 11:59pm US only

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Activision Family Game Summit

I recently attended Activision's Family Game Summit. It was an event that showcased the holiday video games that would bring families together. I was excited to hear about it since many of the games are on my son's wish list.
The event was hosted by 80's TV actress, mom & author Soleil Moon Frye. There was also a panel of expertise women. They were Nicole Armstrong, Activision Marketing Director, Patricia Vance, President of the ESRB and Suzanne Kantra of Techlicious Blog.

Each women spoke of how gaming in the 21st century can be beneficial for your children. Who would've thought that? They also spoke about the ESRB ratings & the mobile apps which are helpful when purchasing a game for your child.
We were given sneak peeks at SkyLanders Giants, Wreck It Ralph, Wipeout 3 and Angry Birds Trilogy to name a few. We were even able to have fun & play for awhile! I couldn't wait to play these games with my boyz.

In the end we were able to have Soleil Moon Frye personally autograph her book, Happy Chaos. What a great treat to meet Punky Brewster in the flesh! I was star struck!

You can check out all the games we previewed at Activision Family Game Summit site.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I received a gift bag. All opinions are 100% my own.

Zumba Core Challenge Week 3

Ok I'm going to say it. I totally bombed this 3rd week of the challenge. Thanksgiving was last week. How could I think about working out when I just ate all this marvelous food. It was very difficult to keep up with the challenge this time. I did do it a few days before but I totally slacked after the holiday. I feel extremely guilty about it too. Its funny because this is the time of year when gym memberships start skyrocketing.

Outcome
Total failure

Divine Chocolate Cheesecake Muffins & A Giveaway #DivineInNYC

Chocolate is my weakness. If there was an AA group for it, I would be a member for life. Now that the holidays are here, its even worse. It's everywhere! I was excited when I was asked to review Divine Chocolate, a pioneering Fair Trade brand. Its is the only Fair Trade chocolate brand that is 45% owned by its farmers. While Fairtrade ensures farmers receive a better deal for their cocoa and additional income to invest in their community, company ownership gives farmers a share of Divine’s profits and a stronger voice in the cocoa industry. When the package arrived, I was more than thrilled!

Since I'm not great in the kitchen, I decided to try something simple because I was eager to use one of these amazing bittersweet chocolate baking bars. My son loves chocolate as well so I figured making some chocolate cheesecake muffins would be best for us to try & work together on. It was a bit of task since our mixer wasn't cooperating with us so I had to opt to use the blender. The cheesecake mix looked so pretty.

My little helper prepared the muffin pans with liners while I manually whipped the remaining ingredients in a bowl. Whew who knew baking was so much work!

I have to say they didn't come out too bad. I'm sure I missed something but the chocolate tasted so good! We even licked the bowl.

Here's the recipe for you to enjoy! (Recipe by www.pillsburybaking.com was inspiration)
Ingredients
1/2 cup sugar
2 (3oz) packages cream cheese softened
1 large egg
1 5.3oz Divine bittersweet baking bar
2 1/2 cups flour
1 2/3 cups sugar
1/4 Divine baking cocoa
1 1/4 cups water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons vinegar
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Heat oven to 350 F. Line 24 medium muffin cups with paper baking cups. Beat 1/2 cup sugar and cream cheese in large bowl until smooth. Beat in egg until smooth. Stir in chocolate; set aside.
Beat remaining ingredients in large bowl on high speed 3 minutes. Reserve 1 1/2 cups batter.
Fill each muffin cup 1/3 full. Spoon 1 tablespoon cream cheese mixture onto batter in each cup. Top each cup with reserved batter.
Bake 30 -35 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool. Store in Refrigerator.

We enjoyed eating the rest of the bars. My favorite was the Milk Chocolate with Toffee & Sea Salt. What a great combo! 

To purchase Divine Chocolate please check out their site.

Divine Chocolate has been generous to offer a wonderful basket of heavenly goodies to 3 BoyzRuleOurWorld readers! Giveaway open to US only. Giveaway ends 11/30/12 11:59pm. Winners will be notified by email and must respond within 48 hours. Divine Chocolate is responsible for delivery of prize.

Elf The Broadway Musical

One of my favorite holiday movies is Will Farrell in Elf. I have seen it so many times that it never gets old. I have been dying to see it on Broadway but every time it's playing I never seem to have time to catch it. This year I was determined. So I was excited when I was given the opportunity to review it this season. I took Andre and my niece with her son as well. It was a great date night in the city.
Synopsis
ELF is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. Buddy is raised unaware that he is actually a human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Faced with the harsh reality that his father is on the naughty list and his step-brother doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.

The musical was entertaining. We laughed & sang. Of course they couldn't put in the entire movie on Broadway but they did capture the essential scenes. The boyz enjoyed it. Andre has been singing "Its the story of Buddy The Elf" since that night. This is a holiday must if you're looking to take in a night on Broadway. The entire family will definitely enjoy it.
Elf The Musical is playing at the Al Hirschfeld Theater until January 6,2013. Wayne Knight of Seinfeld is currently playing Santa! For dates,& ticket information please click here.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given tickets to facilitate this review. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

Related articles

• NY1 Theater Review: "Elf"

Kids Foot Locker Kicks Off Awesome Week!

Kids Foot Locker has been a staple in my household for as long as I can remember. My son's feet grow so quickly that I find myself replacing his footwear every couple of months. Luckily Kids Foot Locker has the latest in fashion for clothes & shoes! I can always grab Andre a really fly tee to match up with his sneakers. With his favorite NBA players on many of the items, it makes shopping fun & easy!

Kids Foot Locker is kicking off the holiday season with the Awesomely Awesome Week of Awesome Gear that is also Awesome! Beginning Monday November 19 through Cyber Monday  You buy something awesome then you get a chance to spin the wheel to win one of many awesome prizes!

Our starting line-up of Awesome holiday items will include the newest Kobe and Jordan Retro IV sneakers with the coolest apparel to match, the holiday collection of Converse Crayola Chuck Taylor All Star sneakers and tons of great stocking stuffers like Nike Elite socks, infant gift sets and KFL
Holiday gift cards. After you make your purchase, you can win awesome prizes from NickToons, New Era, Reebok, adidas, Converse, Nike and the NBA!
Our Kids Foot Locker VIPs can spin just because so be sure to sign up: www.kidsfootlocker.com/vip

For more information on the Awesome Wheel, click here:
http://www.kidsfootlocker.com/promotion/promoId:5004152/awesomewheel/?SID=9029&cm_mmc=kidsfootlocker-_-awesomeweek-_-wheel-_-ofawesome

Kids Foot Locker has generously offered 2 BoyzRuleOurWorld readers a chance to win a Kids Foot Locker gift pack!

Two readers will each win a

-$25 Kids Foot Locker gift card

-pack of Crayola Fabric Markers
-one New Era snap back bracelet

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given a Kids Foot Locker gift pack. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Zumba Fitness Core Challenge Week 2

Well it was my 2nd week doing the Zumba Fitness Core challenge. I will admit that it has been difficult to motivate myself to do it. I'm not used to working out. I still feel awkward doing some moves. I realize I'm so uncoordinated.
I really enjoy the Latin music. It makes me feel like I'm at a club. Even though I don't understand the lyrics the rhythm gets you! It keeps you moving.

I'm hoping after a few months of doing this my abs will get to look like the models in the video. What I do like about this game version is the new calorie tracking. The game keeps track of calories burned, overall rank and a technique score.

Outcome
I have found myself getting a little more limber and not so stiff. Definitely have been feeling sore in my back & ab areas, which I guess its a good thing. I'm waking up those unused muscles! Now its going to be a challenge with Thanksgiving this week. I have to keep focused.

The Heart of Christmas DVD Review & #Giveaway

I was given an opportunity to preview a new DVD release The Heart of Christmas. I was intrigued by it because it is inspired by a true story of a young boy Dax who is diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia at 13 months old. I woke up early one morning before my boyz, so I decided to watch it. Little did I know, I would be in tears within an hour into the film.

Synopsis

The Heart of Christmas tells the story of Austin and Julie Locke, who are devastated to learn that their young son, Dax, has been diagnosed with cancer. With courage, determination and faith, they decide to give Dax one last Christmas – even if it has to be in October. When the community sees the holiday decorations and learns the heartbreaking truth, what happens next is a miraculous outpouring of care and support. The Heart of Christmas will touch your heart and bring home the spirit of the holidays.

This movie was heart breaking. I could never imagine what it would feel like to have a child stricken with cancer. I also appreciated the story line of Candace Cameron-Bure. She is a working mother who is so engrossed into her business that she neglects her home life with her husband and children. It takes a chance meeting of some kind neighbors decorating Dax's home with Christmas ornaments on Halloween that changes her life. She realizes there are bigger things to worry about & we need to relish every moment now that we have with our loved ones.

You can find more information on this amazing little boy you can visit the Dax Locke Foundation.

One lucky reader will win their own DVD copy of The Heart of Christmas

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was offered a screener copy. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

Operation Christmas Child #OCCGiving

After experiencing Hurricane Sandy a few weeks ago, it definitely has made me more appreciative of what my family & I have. I have been explaining to my son what it means to give back now especially during the holidays and how we need to be grateful.
We are taking part in Operation Christmas Child. Operation Christmas Child is a non-profit organization that has been working since 1993 to bring shoe boxes of gifts to children in need all over the world. National Collection week started November 12 and ends on the 19th.  Their goal this year is to surpass 100 million boxes since their inception so they are asking for help from anyone who can. It's very simple to make one little kid very happy this season.

How To Pack a Shoe Box

• Use an empty shoe box (standard size, please) or a small plastic container. You can wrap the box (lid separately), but wrapping is not required. Most importantly, pray for the child who will receive your gift.

• Determine whether your gift will be for a boy or a girl, and the child’s age category: 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14. Print out the appropriate boy/girl label by downloading the artwork to the right. Mark the correct age category on the label, and tape the label to the top of your box.

• Fill the box with a variety of gifts that will bring delight to a child. Use the gift ideas provided on the bottom of this page.

• Please donate $7 or more for each shoe box you prepare to help cover shipping and other project costs. You can give online by using our “Follow Your Box Donation” option, or you can write a check to Samaritan’s Purse (note “OCC” on memo line) and place it in an envelope on top of the gift items inside your box. If you or your family are preparing more than one shoe box, please make one combined donation.

• Place a rubber band around each closed shoe box and drop it off at the collection center nearest you during our collection week, November 12-19, 2012.

For locations and hours of collection visit our Drop-Off Locations page where you can find the nearest place to take your shoe box by entering your ZIP Code or you can call 1-800-353-5949.

You can also send your shoe box gift to:
Samaritan’s Purse
Operation Christmas Child
801 Bamboo Road
Boone, NC 28607

Our box is almost complete and we're looking forward to dropping it off this weekend. It's been a great learning experience for my son & I. He's always had a good heart but I know now its expanded a bit because of his generosity and caring for others.

This holiday season build a box with your family to teach kindness, compassion, and generosity.

Operation Christmas Child and influencer marketing platform BlogFrog have teamed up with 200 bloggers like me to spread the word about this great cause. 

BlogFrog will match the first 200 boxes that are built.  Pledge your commitment below to build a box today on Facebook or Twitter!

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Operation Christmas Child. The opinions expressed are all mine.

Wordless Wednesday

One of our favorite trips this summer #NYCSI

ZUMBA Fitness Core 4 Week Challenge

By now you must have heard of an exercise craze called Zumba, right? You may know someone that does it or maybe you have done it. I've taken a few classes and I have to admit its exhilarating. The high paced, up beat music make for an enthusiastic time! So when I was given the opportunity to take the Zumba Fitness Core 4 Week Challenge on Xbox Kinect, I jumped at the chance!

Game Overview

Get ready to rock your core! Zumba® Fitness Core is the latest release in the best-selling video
game franchise that has sold more than eight million players on the exhilarating Zumba® Fitness
interactive workout. As the only fitness game that targets your core, Zumba® Fitness Core
is specifically designed to deliver the tight and toned abs that women crave. This energizing
dance-fitness party features fresh music and choreography, new dance styles and fitness
features, plus cool new venues and celebrity Zumba® instructors who can help you reach your
personal goals as you dance your way towards that sexy six pack!

Week 1 - November 5-11

So I have to say that I was a bit rusty. I figured since I did Zumba before, I should be almost like a pro! So I went for the high intensity class first. Umm yea no! I am so the amateur! Just because this is a video game, doesn't mean its any less easier than a real class. The music is awesome as expected. There are a few that don't quite get me motivated as much, but I really prefer the Latin songs. My son even tried doing some moves with me but then just monitored my avatar to make sure I was hitting all the moves correctly. It was very intense so I now know to start off on the lower level first. I need to build up my stamina since I am out of shape.
I look forward to the next 3 weeks especially since Thanksgiving will be near the end of it. I will definitely need to Zumba that turkey off my waist! 

Outcome

After a week of doing Zumba, I haven't noticed much change yet pertaining to weight. However I do see myself having more motivation and energy. I'm not as tired as I normally am after working all day. I have been using it in the evening so I may try to switch it to the morning before I head out to work. We'll see if it makes a big difference!

You can follow me along my journey via Twitter using Hastag #ZumbaFitnessCore. If you're using the game too then share your progress with me!

Disclosure: I received a video game to facilitate this review & the 4 week challenge. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

Disney On Ice Presents Rockin Ever After #GIVEAWAY

Mickey & Minnie Mouse are back with their famous show Disney On Ice. I have been taking my son to these shows since he was 2. He absolutely loves them! I have to say so do I. They are so entertaining & beautifully choreographed. We are never disappointed. Now Disney presents Rockin Ever After with some of their most popular heroines.

In a new twist on fairytale fun, favorite Disney characters compete to be the next superstar in comical segments leading up to the tales of show stopping princesses – Ariel, Rapunzel, Belle, and Merida from Disney•Pixar’s BRAVE in her ice debut!

“The most exciting part of bringing a fearless and independent character like Merida to the ice for the first time is knowing that she has a powerful and inspiring message to deliver about finding the courage to determine one’s own fate,” says Producer Nicole Feld. “We think her story translates well to the ice and will really resonate with today’s audience.”

The show will be passing through New Jersey on the following dates.

Prudential Center November 14-18th

IZOD Center November 20-25th

If you would like to check the schedules for each center please click above.

One lucky reader will win a Family 4 pack of tickets
 Disney On Ice at the IZOD Center 
 any day between November 20-25,2012

Disclosure: Giveaway ends 11/18/12 11:59pm. Must be 18+ and US resident. Winner will be notified via a valid email address. You have 24 hours to respond or a new winner will be selected. BoyzRuleOurWorld is not responsible for delivery of tickets.

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Pressman's Ipad iPieces Review & Giveaway

Last week, during Hurricane Sandy, my family & I were going a bit stir crazy being stuck indoors for a few days. It was an opportune time for us to just relax and hang out with each other which we don't get too often. My son & I love playing games of all sorts. We have a ton of board games that we never get to play together since technology has ruled the world.
I was thrilled to have been given the chance to review the Ipad iPieces by Pressman Toys. This is a total new way of playing some of your favorite games.
We first tried Air Hockey. Andre enjoys air hockey so I knew this would be ideal for him. The iPieces are perfect size for your hand. At first I was a bit nervous because he would bang on the Ipad while he was trying to slide the puck. I feared he would crack the screen. Eventually, he grasped the idea of sliding the iPiece, and it became a fun time. It is a bit difficult to control the puck but after a few tries you get the gist of how to control the pieces.

Secondly we tried Snakes & Ladders. It's similar to Chutes & Ladders, but with a western edge. You can move forward by climbing up ladders but watch out for the snakes! Land on one of their heads and down you go! It was a fun game but my son hates losing because of course he kept getting a snake.

These are great games to have especially for those nights where it will bring the family together and away from the TV's, texting or cell phones. They are very affordable and make a fun gift for the holiday season. iPieces are available for purchase at Toys“R”Us, Barnes & Noble, K-mart, Radio Shack, Learning Express, and BJ’s Wholesale Club stores nationwide. They also can be purchased at Amazon or ToysRUs. The games retail for $9.99

One lucky reader will win one Ipad iPiece Game of their choice! Winner can choose from the following:

Air Hockey 

Snakes & Ladders

Fishing Game

Pool

Game of Goose

Disclosure: I received 2 games to facilitate my review. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

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