Another New Comic Book Day has arrived and this week there tons of comics I can’t wait to pick up and read through. This is my new comic book pull list for October 24, 2018. Of course, I am super excited for three new Infinity Warps (they are all SO GOOD!!). Plus, we get a new What If? comic. Support your local shop today!
Halloween is our favorite time of year in our family — and here is a list of must watch Halloween movies for kids!
We love Halloween in our house, so during the whole month of October (and most of September) we watch Halloween movies and television shows. Thanks to NCircle we now have a new stack of these that are prefect for kids – and my girls could not be more excited! This is our list of must have Halloween DVDs for kids!
Pocoyo Boo!
Join Pocoyo and his friends on seven playful adventures. Whether it’s playing a new game called Boo!, enjoying a monster mash party or pretending to be Godzilla & King Kong. Every day is fun and engaging with Pocoyo and hid friends!
Little Wolf’s Book of Badness
All Little Wolf wants to do is stay at home with Mum, Dad and his brother, Smellybreff. However, Mum and Dad are worried that their precious son, Little Wolf, is not as bad as a small wolf should be. So they decide to send him off to Cunning College in Frettnin Forest to learn the ‘Nine Rules of Badness’ from his Uncle Bigbad. Based on a world famous series of best-selling Little Wolf story books, this one-off is a treat for the whole family!
Welcome back Gumby and Pokey in this wild, wacky and inventive collection of 80’s episodes! Featuring 50 clay-animated episodes, fully re-mastered from their original camera rolls and soundtracks. Also making appearances are Prickle, Goo, the Blockheads, Professor Kapp, Dr. Zveegee, the Moon Boggles, and Gumby’s parents Gumbo and Gumba. New characters include Gumby’s sister Minga, Denali the Mastodon and Tilly the chicken! The gift set includes 2 exclusive bendable toys!
That’s not all! You can enter to win ALL of the DVDs I mentioned here using the Gleam form below. Be sure to check out my other giveaways while you are here and GOOD LUCK!
While I was not at New York Comic-Con this year, I did have feet on the ground! Thanks to Louise Sullivan from 3 Decades, 3 Kids for getting the inside scoop!
This year at New York Comic-Con, our favorite panel was the special preview of Disney’s Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2, featuring director Rich Moore, director/writer Phil Johnston, head of story Josie Trinidad (who all also worked on Zootopia and the original Wreck-it Ralph!), and an exclusive look at over 20 minutes of the movie!
Of course, there’s always room for fun among the hard work as well – Rich, Phil, and Josie discussed the various trips that the teams for our favorite Disney Animation films got to take for inspiration! The team for Moana, for example, took a journey to the Pacific Islands to better understand the water and wildlife there. While Frozen’s team went to Norway to take in the environment and culture that they would later incorporate into the movie.
Much like the protagonists of Ralph Breaks the Internet, this team got to go to the internet! To achieve this, they visited One Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, the home of most of North America’s internet connections. The trip was definitely fruitful, as the appearance of the servers, wires, and connections provided some great groundwork for the team’s vision of the internet’s appearance. Now on to the most exciting part of the panel: the footage!
Ralph Breaks The Internet Footage (SPOILERS AHEAD!)
Minor spoilers for the first half of Wreck it Ralph 2: Ralph Breaks the Internet ahead!
The new footage began by establishing the core problem of the movie: when the steering wheel of Sugar Rush breaks, Mr. Litwak is unable to find a replacement that fits his budget. He ultimately decides that the game should be unplugged. Vanellope, despite falling into a bit of a rut when she has to race the exact same unchanging courses, still loves Sugar Rush. She teams up with Ralph to try and find a way to get the game back in working order. This leads them to a mysterious new realm – the internet! With the help of Knowsmore (an adorable, Alan Tudyk-voiced stand-in for search engines like Google), the pair make their way to eBay.
Here, Ralph and Vanellope misunderstand the site’s bidding system, believing it to be a game where you shout out the highest number you can think of. This leads them to a hilarious “bidding war” where they end up promising to pay over $30,000 for a new Sugar Rush steering wheel. Of course, this sets up their next dilemma: where will they get the money? Along the way, they travel through various other games and familiar websites (including a run-in between Vanellope and the Disney Princesses!), meeting new characters Yesss and Shank (Taraji P. Henson and Gal Gadot, respectively).
Will Ralph and Vanellope be able to save Sugar Rush? Find out in Wreck it Ralph 2: Ralph Breaks the Internet, in theaters November 21!
This post was written in collaboration with Simon & Schuster. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.
I have been reading to my daughters since they were in my belly. Now, we all read together. I have been blown away by the great readers that they have become over the last year or so. And I have to thank Ready-to-Read books, which are published by Simon Spotlight, a division of Simon & Schuster. Not only are their books placed in to different levels, which encourages my girls to strive to get to the next one, there are also some great resources on their website. Find out how I have encouraged my girls to increase their reading level – and enjoy doing it.
Celebrate Milestones with Ready-to-Read Books
I have always been a reader. When I was a young girl, I would read at least a book a day, so it came as no surprise to me that my girls are the same way. One thing that I really love about these books is the different levels. My oldest really wanted to move on to the next level, so she practiced Level One often, and we had a big celebration when she graduated to the next level. At ReadyToRead.com, parents can print out certificates to help make it even more important to their little ones. In fact, my girls both have theirs hanging up in their rooms. They even have a reading chart available so that kids can keep track of their reading goals easily.
Who Are They For?
Ready-to-Read books are recommended for children ages four to ten, so my five and seven-year-old fit right in. They have different “star” levels, as I mentioned above, which really encourage children to practice so they can move up to the next level. There truly is something for every young reader as these books feature just about every genre – like exciting nonfiction, beloved characters, and fan favorites. Beloved characters from authors like Doreen Cronin and Eric Carle will delight fans of traditional picture books. Stories from fan favorites like Daniel Tiger, the PJ Masks, and the Peanuts will get kids excited to read about their adventures.
Learn and Grow with Ready-to-Read
A lot of Ready-to-Read books have an educational side to them – learning facts and history, as well as comprehension. But don’t worry, they have done their research. All of their titles have been vetted by educational experts to adhere to the latest reading guidelines, and each level is designed to help children confidently grasp new reading concepts. Every title utilizes concepts such as sight words, shorter lengths, word families, rhyming. They even have unique nonfiction series like “You Should Meet,” and “Living In…” which explore the influential people in our world. But my favorite part? They all contain a guide at the beginning of the book to prepare children for the story ahead. AND fun reading comprehension questions at the end of each story.
Learn more by visiting ReadytoRead.com and following @SimonKIDS on social media!
It is that time of the year! Where it is cold outside and dinners are meant to be comforting and warming. So what better meal to make than chili! Being on keto means no beans or rice, so we decided to make our own keto white chicken chili.
This low carb meal is delicious, and you can modify it to work for you. It is mild since we served it to our kids, but if you want spicy, go for it! The best part? You only need one pot to cook it in! Easy and delicious!
Ingredients
2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup spinach, chopped
1/2 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, diced
12 oz softened cream cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella
4 cups chicken bone broth
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 strips of thick bacon
paprika
cumin
chili powder
cayenne pepper
onion powder
salt
pepper
olive oil
sour cream (optional)
Directions
Dry rub chicken with mix of seasonings. This really varies per your own tastes, as we LOVE spicy things so added a lot more chili and cayenne pepper than most would (about 2 tablespoons). If you are looking for a milder version, go with about 1/2 tablespoon for each seasoning, salt and pepper to taste.
Fry chicken halves in olive oil over medium high heat to sear both sides – 2 to 3 minutes per side.
Once browned, add 2 cups of chicken broth to cover and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and cover. Simmer until cooked through. (About 15 minutes.)
Remove chicken and shred. Reserve broth for later.
Heat olive oil in pan and add cubed bacon. Fry until partially cooked.
Add chopped peppers and onions. Continue to cook down until browned.
Add garlic and cook for another minute or so.
Add shredded chicken and reserved broth, plus 2 additional cups of broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer.
Add seasoning to taste.
Add 8 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream, and 2 cups mozzarella. Stir often and cook over medium heat until well blended and thickened.
Add spinach and stir.
Separately, combine 4 oz. melted cream cheese and 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream and mix well. Add mixture to pot. Stir well over medium heat.
Add more seasoning as desired.
Remove from heat and serve. Optional: top with sour cream, shredded cheese, spinach, and raw onions.
This review is in no way sponsored. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.
When I first heard that Venom was going to become a movie, I was over the moon excited. Venom is a fantastic character in the Marvel comic books. I have felt like really needed a redemption after Spider-Man 3. Don’t get me wrong, I love Topher Grace, but he was just not the right choice for Eddie Brock. As the trailers came, I was less and less excited – until that final one. In that one, they sold me. The fact that there would be no Spider-Man made me a little nervous, but I got it. Cut to opening weekend and the negative reviews came rolling in. I finally went after the second weekend, expecting a bomb, and came out thrilled with my experience (and this movie!). Here is why.
My Trailer Reactions
First, take a look at how I felt about the trailers.
Comic Book Nods
It should come as no surprise to you that I am a big comic book fan. And if it does? Well, welcome to my site, I hope you stick around a while. There were several comic book nods throughout this film that would make any Marvel reader grin from ear to ear. First of all, when the space ship crashes they mention one survivor – “Jameson”. If you read the comics you know that J. Jonah Jameson’s son, John, survives a space ship crash thanks to Spider-Man. Pretty damn cool right. Although he dies (we assume) moments later when the ambulance crashes.
In the beginning of the movie, while Anne and Eddie are talking, she says they don’t want a repeat of the Daily Globe incident. In the comics, Spider-Man gets Eddie fired from the globe, which is the Bugle’s rival. Another awesome nod to the comics. And perhaps my favorite one could have easily been missed by fans. While shopping in the mart for food, Venom mentions he wants frozen tots and chocolate for dinner. In the comics, Venom curbs his appetite for flesh and brains by eating chocolate.
Incredible CGI
I am really picky about CGI. Especially after the hot mess that was Deadpool 2. But this CGI was done perfectly. It was amazing. I loved the way all of the symbiotes looked and moved. And that battle between Riot and Venom. It was everything. EVERYTHING. Say what you will about the plot, but you cannot say the CGI was done poorly.
Good vs. Evil
Riz Ahmed plays Carlton Drake, the “bad guy” in Venom. I was lucky enough to interview him once and have always thought he is amazing actor. The chemistry between him and Tom Hardy was amazing. I loved watching them battle it out as good and evil in this movie. Both of them were phenomenal in their roles and I genuinely enjoyed watching them together on the screen.
Venom and Eddie
Venom and Eddie account for a lot of the humorous moments in this film. When their bodies were still merging, there were some over the top moments, but overall, I loved them together. For example, when Venom tells Eddie to jump and instead he goes in the elevator, Venom calls him a pussy. The way it was done was fantasticly hilarious. And the whole phone call between Eddie and Anne (and Doctor Dan) after the tests were run on him… perfect.
Watch my video review to get all my thoughts the morning after watching Venom.
Overall, I think if you are even the slightest bit a Marvel fan (especially a Spider-Man/Venom one), you will enjoy this movie. Is it perfect? Absolutely not. Is it fun, filled with action, and top of the line with CGI? You’re damn right it is.
I loved the first Mama Mia and am waiting to watch Here We Go Again with my mom for sentimental reasons. Here are the bonus features!
I loved the first Mama Mia! movie so much, that I bought it. My mom and I watched it together and it gives me such great memories. I only see her once or twice a year since she lives out of state, so I have been holding off watching Mama Mia! Here We Go Again until we can see it together. However, I have heard good things from friends about it being fun, and of course the music is amazing too. Enter to win a copy for yourself and let me know how it is!
Meet the Characters
Sophie: Sophie has dedicated herself to fulfilling her mother’s dream of renovating the taverna. She plans to transform it into the magnificent Hotel Bella Donna in her honor.
Donna: Donna joyfully embarks on her adventures through Europe to fulfill her destiny on the Greek island of Kalokairi. However, when she discovers Sam is engaged to another woman, Donna’s heart is broken.
Rosie: Rosie is a television cook and writer. She is unattached and her love life hasn’t been brilliant over the years. But she is warm and down to earth, a bit clumsy and puts her foot in it on occasion.
Tanya: Tanya is still on the hunt for a man, still wearing her foxy outfits and still in heels that don’t quite work on the cobbled streets of Kalokairi.
Sam: Sophie accepts Sam as her step-father, knowing that she has two other dads in her life who love and adore her as well. Sam and Sophie have been living on the island renovating the hotel to its former glory.
Bill: Bill is a writer of travel books. He is a cheerful guy, not yet married and he doesn’t have any children.
Harry: At the beginning of this movie, we find Harry back in the boardroom, and he clearly can’t bear it. Sophie’s call inspires him to shake off those shackles again.
Ruby: Ruby is Donna’s mother. She appears out of nowhere and Sophie, her granddaughter, is not particularly happy to see her.
About Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again
Join the celebration, sing and dance, and discover how it all began! Ten years after Mamma Mia! The Movie premiered, you’re invited back to the magical Greek island of Kalokairi in an all-new musical sequel based on the songs of ABBA. Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) is now pregnant, and like her mother Donna (Meryl Streep), she’ll need to take risks. The film’s original cast returns, with new additions including Lily James as a young Donna, Andy Garcia and Oscar winner Cher.
This article is in no way sponsored. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.
My family likes to go big for Halloween. It is one of our favorite holidays and we start decorating in September so we can enjoy it longer. Our house is always one that people stop at to check out. We have a smoking cauldron, which is pretty awesome, but the biggest draw is our singing pumpkins. They have a nightly show starting in October and we have become sort of famous for it in our little city. So in this article I am going to tell you how to easily create your own!
Singing Pumpkins
You only need a few items to create your own singing pumpkins.
3 Craft Pumpkins (preferably different shapes and sizes)
stand or table (we made our own to fit our Halloween decor look)
The first thing you need to do is decide where you want to set up your pumpkins. Attach your projector mount to an area directly across from that. We have ours attached to the ceiling of our front porch. Point the projector towards where your pumpkins will be.
The Set Up
Load the singing pumpkins file to your projector. You can either set up a timer so that the program will play at a certain time each night or do it manually. We have an app on our phone that is a remote to our projector so that we can start it from inside. Set your pumpkins up so that the faces line up on them properly. Connect your speakers to your projector via Bluetooth and place one on either side of your porch (or wherever you have set the pumpkins up). We hide our speakers in the bushes so it really seems like the pumpkins themselves are singing.
The best thing about the singing pumpkins file is that you can edit it however you want. Take out songs, order them however you want, and put together your own show. We switch ours up year to year just to keep things interesting. With these few simple steps, your house can be the hit of the neighborhood this Halloween!
This post was sponsored by Landscape Structures as part of a Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.
My daughters love to play outdoors. We spend most of our days in our backyard, which is luckily really big for the city. However, we also often drive out to their school to play on the brand new playground. Last year, our family helped build this inclusive playground, so we are very proud of it. I love that it has something for everyone, and since October is Sensory Awareness Month, I want to explain to you why we love it so much.
Why Inclusive Play?
Inclusive Play allows children of all abilities to grow and play together. If there is one thing in this world we need right now, it is acceptance for those that may be different than us. My husband and I pride ourselves on teaching our children that different does not mean bad. It is important to get to know other kids of all ages and abilities, and befriend them. Meeting other kids on the playground and having a chance to run around, and check out all sorts of activities together is a great way to do this.
Landscape Structures, like us, believes that through inclusive play, kids learn life lessons such as leadership, persistence, support, and empathy. Some of the most valuable lessons, and what a great way to learn them. They won’t even know they are learning. This playground equipment is designed to create an environment where all kids can play together. When I see my girls playing with kids of all abilities, it really makes my heart happy. And I know I am raising them right. With inclusive playgrounds, it makes it just a little bit easier for me to show them different does not mean bad. They provide a platform for social equality and encourages interactions that shape kids into thinkers, dreamers, and leaders.
Learn More About Inclusive Playgrounds
If you wish to take your children to a Landscape Structures Inclusive Playground, you can find your closest one on their website. I highly recommend checking them out, as my girls have the BEST time there. They love pushing each other on the swings, and of course the “rolling” slide as they call it. There is so much to do for kids of all ages and abilities to enjoy!
Another New Comic Book Day has arrived and this week there tons of comics I can’t wait to pick up and read through. This is my new comic book pull list for October 17, 2018. Marvel Zombies have always been one of my books, so I am really excited for a new series.
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