Sunday, December 15, 2019

Beyblade Burst Turbo SlingShock Cross Collision Battle Set


I remember the days where my kids would play with Beyblade in their rooms.  They would make up competition and enjoy playing together.  Now they are all grown up...

However, today I am presenting you a new Beyblade product that can be found on the market.  Introducing the Beyblade Burst Slingshock Cross Collision Battle set which includes a Beystadium as well two slingshock battling tops and their launchers.


Head-to-head battles are sure to clash in this new version of a somewhat classic toy for kids.   This particular version has a twist under its sleeve so to speak - you will need to download an app.  Scan the code on the Beyblade Burst Slingshock tops energy layers and cross collision Beystadium to unleash each in the Beyblade Burst app.

You can also customise your top's energy layer and choose your spin direction with a combination of energy layers and direction-changing chips.   In all you can have eight possible combinations.

Beyblade is a toy geared for 8 years and up old boys and girls.  So nothing stops mom, dad, uncles an aunts to have fun with the kids this Christmas season!

The app is available for iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch as well as select Android devices.  You will need to have the iOS 8 or later for the Apple devices. 

The box contains the Beyblade Burst Slingshock right-spin top, left-spin top, direction-changing chips, right/left-spin launchers, Cross Collision Beystadium and instructions.

The Beyblade Burst Turbo SlingShock is available for purchase at your favorite store, even on Amazon (Canada and US).

    

Disclaimer: Thanks to Hasbro Canada for sending me the above mentioned product for review purposes . I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

hasbro

NERF Megalodon (N-Strike Mega)

Hasbro has new NERF Blasters on the market and one of them is called the Megalodon.  It is part of the N-Strike MEGA line of NERF Blasters that Hasbro has created.

As you can see the Megalodon possesses a rotating drum which can hold up to 20 NERF Mega darts.  This special toy blaster will permit you to have plenty of firepower in your NERF battles with friends.

All you will have to do is crank the handle back and forth and pull the trigger to launch 1 dart at a time, or unleash all 20 of them rapidly with the slam-fire action.

This mega firing power will shoot darts up to 25 meters (85 feet for my American readers).   What could resist against this machine?

This blaster comes with 20 darts as well as instructions.   These darts are especially designed in order to make a whistling sound as they fly through the air.   Official NERF darts are tested and approved for performance and quality.

Designed for ages 8 and up.   However, by extremely cautious when using it as you want to avoid injuries.  Do not aim at the eyes or face of your opponent.  Also, it is strongly recommended to use only the darts designed for this product.

Our church sometimes put on NERF nights for the kids and my own children often bring their own NERF blasters to compete during that night.  They have different activities that can be done from battles between two camps to challenges to demonstrate skills.

NERF has been part of the life of my children since they could hold a blaster.  They made great memories with them whether at home or at church during the NERF nights.

This Christmas bring a little excitement in the life of your kids (or dad as well) and get them the NERF Megalodon blaster.

The NERF Megalodon blaster is available for purchase at your favorite store, even on amazon (Canada and US).

   
Disclaimer: Thanks to Hasbro Canada for sending me the above mentioned product for review purposes . I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

hasbro

Thursday, November 28, 2019

Disney Frozen II Anna Autumn Swirling Adventure doll

As you may know, the new movie featuring Anna and her sister Elsa - Frozen II - has been in theater for a bit now.   And when a new movie from Disney comes out you can be certain that numerous toys will also appear on the shelves at your favorite store. 

So it is not surprising that this Christmas season new dolls based on Frozen II are available.   I have the opportunity to present you one such doll today - Anna Autumn Swirling Adventure doll.

I haven't seen the movie as of yet.   But apparently in Frozen II, Anna's unwavering optimism and perseverance is tested.  She must learn to stand strong even when it feels impossible, and do the next right thing.

This beautiful doll wears an outfit that is black and purple complete with a removable skirt, belt and cape.   If you lift the arms of the doll you will see that the outfit illuminate with a swirling leaf pattern that is absolutely stunning.  I simply love the yellow and red colors moving on the dress. (Why didn't we get that kind of fancy dresses for our dolls when I was younger?)  Her sister Elsa's doll has something similar on her dress where a pattern of snowflakes lights up. (Doll sold separately.)

 


These fun dolls will definitively bring joy to kids as they play with sister duo twinkling together as they journey to new adventures.

The Disney Frozen II  Swirling Adventure Fashion Dolls are available for purchase at your favorite retails store, even on Amazon (Canada and US).

Anna
   

Elsa
   

Disclaimer: Thanks to Hasbro Canada for sending me the above mentioned product for review purposes . I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

hasbro

Saturday, November 23, 2019

Introducing the new Remote Control D-O Star Wars The Rise of Skywalker


This December a new movie from the Star Wars franchise is coming out - Star Wars The Rise of Skywalker.  If you are like us, you are looking forward to this new Star Wars movie.   And when a new movie of a beloved franchise comes out we all know what it means when it comes to toys - new products bearing the franchise name.

The coming of Star Wars The Rise of Skywalker will also introduce a new droid called D-O.  Thought we do not know much yet about this little droid, we know that he was built by Babu Frik out of spare parts.  He also befriend the Resistance droid BB-8 at some point after the Battle of Crait. 
Coming this Christmas season, your child (or maybe any Star Wars fan in your life) can own his/her own D-O remote control droid.

It will roll forward and backward, performs fun 360-degree spins, and makes expressive droid sounds.  You can control it with the remote control.   D-O can also bobbles its head in any direction - back, front, and side-to-side.
 If you also possess the remote control BB-8 already both of these little droids can go on a wide range of adventures together.

Again this toy is geared for children ages 5 and up.  It can also be interesting for any Star Wars fan in your life. 

The Star Wars D-O Remote Control is available at your favorite store, even on Amazon (Canada and US).

 

BB-8 Remote Control



Disclaimer: Thanks to Hasbro Canada for sending me the above mentioned product for review purposes . I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

hasbro

Monopoly Voice Banking

Move over old Monopoly games, here comes a new version this Christmas season - Monopoly Voice Banking -  which allow you to control the game with the power of your voice.
In this electronic version of the game, Mr. Monopoly is the Banker and manages player's money via his top hat. The Monopoly Voice Banking game features lights and sounds, and comes with an interactive Mr. Monopoly banking unit in the form of a top hat. 

This iconic Monopoly top hat is voice activated and the personality of Mr. Monopoly shines as he handles the transactions.  He keeps tabs on player's money and properties so there's no cash or cards to think about. (I suspect that many will like the fact that a banker is not necessary for this particular version of a classic game!)  You simply have to talk to Mr. Monopoly (aka the top hat) and he will respond to you.

For example, press the token's button and say, "Buy St. James Place."   Mr. Monopoly will track the transaction and keeping the game moving.  With the Monopoly Voice game, players will travel more rapidly around the board aiming to be the person ending with the most money and the highest property value in order to win.
The game also got a revamped gameboard with darker colors than the original Monopoly.   I tend to like the darker background as well as the brighter colors on it as it give a more electronic feeling to the game.

Apparently this version of Monopoly will allow to play the game faster as you simply have to speak your decision to Mr. Monopoly and he will manage everything.  This allows you build your properties sets and get the houses and hotels up faster.

The box includes the Top Hat banking unit (including top and brim), the gameboard, four tokens, twenty-two title deed cards, one Get Out of Jail Free card, four reference cards, sixteen houses, sixteen hotels, two dice, and a game guide.

The game was designed for ages 8 and up and will allow 2 to 4 players.  Note that demo batteries are included in the game but you will need to replace them with 3 AA batteries.

The Monopoly Voice Banking game is available at your favorite store, even on amazon (Canada and US).

   

Disclaimer: Thanks to Hasbro Canada for sending me the above mentioned product for review purposes . I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

hasbro


Saturday, November 16, 2019

Gotham Complete Series Blu-Ray

Today I am presenting you a new Blu-Ray set that could find numerous fans of Batman drooling this Christmas season.   Presenting Gotham the Complete Series which is now available everywhere.

What is Gotham? Well Gotham is a crime drama television series based on characters from DC Comics and appearing in the Batman franchise.  Essentially, you will follow Bruce Wayne when he was a teenager and how he slowly became the cape crusader that we all know.   Also in this series, you will see James Gordon and numerous villains like Penguin, Riddler, Carwoman, Poison Ivy, Scarecrow, Mr. Freeze, Hugo Strange, Solomon Grundy, Ra's al Ghul, Nyssa al Ghul, Bane and The Joker.

Keep in mind that this television series is more viewed like a prequel series based on Batman. What I mean by this is that you will visualize the process on how Bruce Wayne became the Batman, how James Gordon becomes an ally to Batman as well as how the villains became who they are in the comics.

Each Blu-Ray box contains the episodes of the season as well as special features.  Let me highlight the special features for each season of Gotham:

  • First Season: 22 episodes, Gotham Invented, Gotham: Designing the Fiction, The Game of Cobblepot, Gotham: The Legend Rebord, DC Comics Night at Comic-Con 2014 - Presenting Gotham, The Flash, Constantine and Arrow, Character Profiles, Gag Reel, and Unaired Scenes plus a digital copy code.
  • Second Season: 22 episodes, ALFRED: Batman's Greatest Ally, Gotham by Noir Light, Cold-Hearted: The Tale of Victor Fries, Character Profiles, Gotham: 2015 Comic-Con Panel and more plus a digital copy code.
  • Third Season: 22 episodes, The Dark Within the Dark: The Court of Owls, Madness Rising: The New Villains of Gotham, Ben McKenzie Directional Debut, Gotham: 2016 Comic-Con Panel, Deleted Scenes plus a digital copy code.
  • Fourth Season: 22 episodes, Solomon Grundy: Born on a Monday, The Sirens Take Gotham, The Best of DC TV's Comic-Con Panels San Diego 2017, Deleted Scenes plus a digital copy code.
  • Fifth Season: 12 episodes, Villains: Modes of Persuasion - In-dept exploration of your favorite DC Super-Villains, Gotham S5:Best Moments in NY Comic Con 2018, Gotham: A Modern Mythology, Gotham's Last Stand, Unaired Scene.

Personally, I always found this television series to be darker than what I am used to.   Mind you the Batman movies/comics are always a bit more darker than other DC superheroes movies/comics so I suppose it makes sense to have a darker mood for the television series as well.   However, my husband who has been a big fan of Batman for years now has enjoyed the series while it was available online.  Unfortunately, he was not able to watch the fifth season as of yet because he could not access the series anymore.  So he was quite pleased when I received this blu-ray set because now he will be able to watch the final season of one of his favorite shows.

Gotham: The Complete Series is now available in Blu-Ray or DVD formats at your favorite store, even on amazon (Canada and US). It would make a perfect gift to any fan of Batman in your life.

Blu-Ray

    

 DVD

    
Disclaimer: I have received this Gotham The Complete Series in Blu-Ray format from Warner Bros, Home Entertainment and Falkowitz PR.  I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

Power Blox

I recently had the opportunity to review a new STEAM product geared for kids.   STEAM stands for any education item on the market that will promote science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. 

Presenting the E-Blox.  E-blox are not ordinary building blocks at all since they can bring the creations to life in some way.  Let me explain.  These E-blox consists of tin-plated blocks that connect to a battery block which power the electrical component blocks.   Essentially an electronic circuitry is integrate into the construction you do but because of how these blocks are made off there is no wires to bundle and hide. 

I have received the Power Blox Standard Set which contains 45 pieces in the box.  This set allows you to lit up the your creations with a unique power block.
This set is geared for children 8 and up.   You will need a 9 volt battery which will be inserted in the power block before you can have lights.  It contains 10 LED lights which will dazzle your creation as you build them.  And apparently you can also connect to your existing building bricks to create endless possibilities and develop more creativity.   The Power Blox are a great way to stimulate the creativity and imagination as well as encourage the development of a scientific brain.

Finally a convenient storage case is included in the box.  It also has a studded top lid which allow your child to build on it.  This storage case and it's special lid makes it ideal for trips whether by car or by air.   This will keep your child entertained when going on long car rides or travelling out of the country.

There are more Power Blox products available on their website.  They also have another line called Circuit Blox which offers new possibilities and experiments to be made.  You can purchase their products from their online store.  Note that all prices are in US money.

Disclaimer:  I have received the Power Blox Standard Set from KidStuff PR and E-Blox.  I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way.  All opinions expressed here are only my own.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

Big Bang Theory Limited Edition Complete Series

Every year during the Christmas season, you always see numerous DVD sets of favorite television shows on the shelves of the stores.


This year you will be able to get a popular television show which lasted over 12 seasons.   Presenting the Big Bang Theory - The Complete Series - Limited Edition Blu-Ray Disc set which will be a delightful item to get for the fan in your life.

For the first time ever you will get all 12 seasons - a whooping 279 Episodes - including over 12 hours of bonus content and 3 never-before-seen featurettes which are
  • The Big Bang Theory: A Retrospective - final reflections from the cast and producers
  • All the Stars in the BBT Universe - the cast and crew highlight the many guest stars who have been on the show.
  • BBT's Greatest Hits: 12 Years of Comedy in 24 Minutes - a collection of the funniest moments from every blockbuster season.
all packed in a beautiful box.   This box also contains a 32-page episode guide with an introduction from the creator/executive director Chuck Lorre and new behind-the-scenes cast photos.

And that's not all - the lay-flat book which contains all the Blu-Ray discs also features a cast pop-up art. And finally, apparently there is a digital code for every episode as well.
Now, as for the show Big Bang Theory - I have to admit I have never seen it.  However, I have heard from friends who have watched the show that it is very well done and funny too.   So my family is quite excited to have the opportunity to watch the show in a near future.     All we know is that the  show introduce physicists Leonard (Johny Galecki) and Sheldon (Kim Parsons) who navigate the universe and everyday life along Penny (Kaley Cuoco), and fellow scientists Howard (Simon Helberg), Raj (Kunal Nayyar), Amy (Mayim Bialik) and Bernadette (Melissa Rauch), as well as other characters.  I am looking forward to discover The Big Bang Theory with my family.

This Limited Edition Complete Series of the Big Bang Theory is available in DVD or Blu-Ray format at your favorite store, including amazon (Canada and US).

   

Disclaimer: I have received this product from Warner Bros, Home Entertainment and Falkowitz PR.  I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  Please noote that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.

Monday, November 11, 2019

Stem Toys to Encourage Coding from TechWillSaveUS

As you might have realized by now Christmas is just around the corner.   So the kids in your life might have already given you a list of things they might want.   Growing up I always got some education product in my gifts.  When I had kids of my own I also made sure that they would get an educational item or two in the midst of their items.

So when I was approached by KidsStuffPR to review products from TechWillSaveUS, I was curious of what they might have.  Turns out that their products are all based on STEM learning and highly so I decided to get the Micro:Master Pack which is geared for children 11 years old and up.

The Micro:MasterPack is composed of the micro:bit as well as the micro:craft, micro:bot, and the mocro:mods kits. Together they introduce creative coding to the child using them and over thirty projects can be made from them.

Let me present you the different components of the set.

Micro:Bit - This is the starter set of the pack.   It encourages kids to code and encourages creativity and invention.   It is very simple to use - start to code on one of the three coding platforms (computer, phones or tablets), upload the code to the micro:bit and voilà...  Simple and quick.   My own daughter who is 11 has made numerous little messages on this item and enjoyed it.   You can write message on it or simply upload an image. 




Micro:Craft - This add-on kit for the Micro:Bit will allow you to create even more things with it via
your crafting skills.  It contains copper tape, crocodile clips, a buzzer, and some cables.  Inside the box you will also find a little notebook to help you design your projects.  On their website, you can find a ton of projects that can be done with this add-on kit.  It allows you to incorporate crafting with coding.   Design your creation, make it, code it and watch it comes to life.

Micro:Mods - This is another add-on kit for the Micro:Bit product.   It contains a casing (to make a watch), some velcro straps, split pins, glue pads, and a LED strip.   One example you can do with this kit would be to program the rainbow colors in your LED strip.   You can then stick this LED strip on yourself or a backpack to be more stylish.

Micro:Bot - Finally, the Micro:Bot is another add-on kit for the Micro:Bit kit.  This will allow your child to build and code three different robots.  This contains 2 servos, 2 wheels, 1 battery pack, 7 jumper wires, 2 wagos, 5 glue pads, and 5 crocodile clips.  You will also need other items that are easily found at home like markers, ball, craft knife, golf club, tape, screwdriver, glue, kitchen foil, paper and a sponge.   You can choose to make a ArtBot, a GolfBot or a RoomBot. 

If you worry about the fact that your child might not be able to code - don't!   The website - microbit.org- possesses numerous tutorials and information that will help him/her to make.   At first I wished that there were more instructions in the boxes but I quickly realized that their website was self-explanatory and easy to use.

My daughter quickly grasp the way to use the website in a matter of minutes.  She has experience a few things with the items we have received.  She still has a lot more that she can do with them and will continue to explore the projects she can do on the website.

With Christmas being just around the corner and time off from school, your kids will probably enjoy doing a bit of fun projects with the products of TeachWillSaveUs.  And without realizing it, your kids will still learn during this holiday season. 

All these products and many more are only available on their website.  They offer a wide variety of coding products for kids ages 4-6, 7-10 and 11+.  The company offers free shipping in the UK and the US.

Disclaimer:  I have received the Micro:MasterPack kit from KidStuff PR and TechWillSaveUS.I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way.  All opinions expressed here are only my own.

Tuesday, October 1, 2019

A Journey of Grief

When I was debating to pick a devotional last December I was considering two different one - the Book of Hope by Nancy Guthrie and Portraits of Devotion from Beth Moore.  The first one was written for anyone who has been hurt in life while the second one would make you go through the life of Jesus, David, John, and Paul.

But I sensed that God wanted me to pick the Book of Hope for some reasons.  I had been struggling for some years now with the relationship I had with my mom.  2019 was also the year where I would turn half a century and somehow I wanted - hoping - that our relationship would be changed somehow. 

So I embarked on a journey of reading daily the book of Hope, journaling the highlights I encountered in it, writing down scriptures in the journal and so on.   Faithfully I read, wrote and pondered. 

I speak to my mom regularly by phone.  But it has been years since we have seen each other.  It is complicated and I was trying to respect her wishes you see.   Anyhow I won't vent here because venting is not a solution to any problem.  So we spoke.  I knew she had a lingering cough and that she had been to the hospital once.  But she never mentioned anything urgent.

March arrived and with it my birthday.   I was struggling that week and decided to start seeing a Christian counselor.   I tried to call my mom as I usually do but there was no answer.  I left a message.  She never answered back... no by phone (which she usually do) or email. I was crushed.  Then on March 25th I got a phone call informing me that my mother had been in the hospital, that she had been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, than she refused any treatment and hoped for euthanasia and that she had died that day at 2pm.   I was submerged with emotions and it felt like like I was drowning in grief.  Grief that I was not able to say goodbye, grief that our relationship had not had the chance to be repaired, grief beyond my own imagination...  GRIEF.

The next day I was debating a lot about what to do.   Call family members I had not seen in ages or not?  I decided it was more than time to mend the brokenness and reached out to both side of the family.   Again the walls that had been put up while I was growing up needed to be put down in my own perspective.   I was embraced open arm by my aunt (sister of my dad) and learned that my own cousin was living in the same city as me.  Unbelievable.  We have since met a few times and each time I come out of it encouraged and refreshed.  On the other side of the family, we messaged each other for some time but then as the months passed the messaged were sporadic to say the least.  As I am writing this today, I have not heard from my cousins on my mom's side for quite some time.   I usually always am the one who reach out...  I have decided to wait and see for now.

So my grief journey, my mourning started in March...  At the same time my dear father-in-love, the one who welcome me into his family was struggling with some health issues.  At some point he was tested intensively in order to determine what was going on.   On May 4th, we learned the official
diagnostic and it was a fatal sickness which meant that there was no possible treatment for him.  We were crushed once again.   He spent some time at his home but as the sickness progressed we knew that he would be move in palliative care.  One of my boys went to help on weekend to be there for both his grand-parents.  He knew he would leave to work at a Christian camp during the summer and at that time he was more available than his older brother who were studying hard to complete his grade 12 in order to get good grades. 

My oldest son wrote his last exam on June 24th.  That precious weekend it became evident that my father-in-love could not stay in his house anymore.   On June 25th, we brought him to the palliative care unit of an hospital in town.  It was also the day when my oldest son turned 18.   It was difficult but we had to do it.

Throughout the summer everyone in the family pitched in as we wanted him to be with someone as much as possible.  Everyone had what we called "shifts" through the weeks.   My oldest son decided to spend as much time as possible with him and learned quite a bit in the medical field during that time.  He had been accepted in BioMedical Sciences and was looking forward to start university.   We visited often...

Through it all I continued to go through this devotional and marveled at how much God new I would need it for the year of 2019.   Not only did I was going through grief in many ways with my mom but I was going through grief also with my father-in-love.  I did not know when would be his last day but I tried the best I can to show him that I loved him. 

July went by.  We entered the month of August.  He was still with us...  We continued to visit, take care of him and serve him in many ways.  He slowly lost the ability of walking.  He was a strong man and the sickness was not progressing as fast as the doctors expected. 

On August 30th, he passed away early in the morning.  We had had the opportunity to go say goodbye the previous evening  and spend time individually with him.   He is dearly missed by everyone.

Last night - on the first month "anniversary" of his departure - my whole family started a journey of healing called GriefShare.  Our church is holding this 10 weeks course for people who have lost a loved one whether recently or a while back.  As I was sitting listening to the introduction where you learn the names of the hosts of the video lessons, I had the feeling that I knew the names - David and Nancy Guthrie.  When they mentioned they lost two of their kids at age two months and that their kids were Hope and Gabriel, I reacted.   This was the same woman who wrote the devotional book that I had been using since the beginning of the year.

My journey through grief started with the book of Hope which God guided me to take in my hands back in December 2018.  He knew what was in store for me this year - 2019 would be a difficult year when it comes to grief.  He knew I needed all the support and encouragement He could provide - via the devotional book, the counseling, the bible reading and art journaling I have done since and finally through this 10 weeks course called GriefShare.   I am speechless as I sit back and look at how He guided me even before I knew that death would be part of my journey this year.  This course is for 10 weeks as I mentioned before and will finish sometime in December wrapping up the year in an amazing way.  This year I suspect that Christmas will be even more difficult because 1) I won't be able to call my mom as I usually do and 2) my father-in-love will be absent physically in our family celebration. But at the same time, I suspect that Christmas will be joyful because I have reconnect with long lost family members.

I have reunited with my aunt, uncle and cousin.  I have family living in my city and we visited a few times already.  Even met a long lost cousin from BC who came in town with her family.  I think the last time I saw her she was 5 years old and I was a teenager.  Later this year, there is a plan for my aunt in BC to visit so chances are I will meet her again as well. 

Grief.  Joy.  Reconnecting with lost family member.  Mending the walls.  Journaling through the whole process using art.  These are all part of my journey for 2019.   God has been amazing since the beginning of the year and I know He is walking with me today and forever for years to come.   Yes 2019 has been difficult in many ways - things I had not expected that crushed me.  But it also brought joy in my life in ways I had not expected either. 

GriefShare is held in churches everywhere - please visit https://www.griefshare.org/ for more details and discover where it is held in your area.

Song for Grandpapa - Original Acoustic Guitar Fingerstyle Song

My oldest son has written an original song in the memory of his grand-father who passed away on August 30th, 2019.   Enjoy.



Friday, August 23, 2019

Overcomer

I recently had the privilege to pre-screen the movie Overcomer which comes out in theaters today.

Overcomer tells a story that illustrate how life can change overnight.   One of the main characters is an high school basketball coach and he sees the big potential that the team has for the upcoming year.  However, some unexpected events will turn the dream into a series of challenges that many people through the town will have to face in the days and weeks to come.  At some point, he is asked to fill-in for as coach for a sport that he doesn't know or understand. This is were he will meet a student who is also struggling through her own journey in life.

I won't tell you much more than that because I truly believe that this movie is worth watching.  Not only would the story touch you in many ways (bring some tissues with you) but you will also appreciate the transformation in the lives of many characters in this movie.

The Kendrick's brothers have produced numerous faith movies through the years (Flywheel in 2003, Facing the Giants in 2006, Fireproof in 2008, Courageous in 2011, and War Room in 2015).  One comment I have told my husband after viewing Overcomer was that you can see the quality of their movies has become better through the years.

When we watched this movie our family was short of a few people as some were at camp and another were helping a family member.  We have enjoyed the movie and its synopsis.  I cried - I admit it.   I was touched for various reasons throughout the movie.  It made me realize that I am also an overcomer in many ways - particularly this year when some challenges have shown up in my life and I had to go through them in order to become the person God has in mind for me. Sometimes when life is challenging you need to face it and be willing to get help too. 

This movie is perfect for the whole family - young and old.  It is inspiring in many ways and will leave you filled with hope and will challenge you to ponder on this question: "What do you allow to define you?" 

The movie will be playing at numerous theaters throughout Canada.  To get a full list of the theaters, please go to the Overcomer Canadian website.

In Ottawa the movie will be showing at the following theaters:
  • Landmark Cinemas 24 Kanata
  • ScotianBank Theater Ottawa in Gloucester
Check out the trailer before heading to the theater.  It will give you an idea of what to expect.


Friday, July 5, 2019

Name a new song



Hey everyone!

My son has composed another song that he had not named yet.  He is asking anyone who is willing to comment on his YouTube Channel to comment the title they think should be given for this song.

So go listen to his new song and feel free to suggest a name for it.   And please do share with your friends, family and neighbors!

Thursday, July 4, 2019

Oh Canada Eh? Dinner Show


Ten years ago, when our children were smaller than they are today, we went on a trip to Niagara Falls.  Not too far from our campsite there was an attraction that caught our eye - a dinner show called Oh Canada Eh? After looking into it we decided that it would not be a good time to go with four small children in tow and we skipped the opportunity to have what looked like an out-of-the-ordinary evening.

Fast forward to 2019 where the Oh Canada Eh? is celebrating their 25th anniversary entertaining guests in the Niagara Falls area.   However, this year the show is making it's debut in the Nation's capital -  Ottawa .  The show has been brought in Ottawa by Totally Legit Productions and is performed at the Clark Hall in the RA Centre located at 2451 Riverside Drive in Ottawa.

I was approached with the opportunity to attend the VIP night which was held last week.   I was able to bring my whole family as well as the girlfriend of my oldest son.  We were looking forward to discover the Oh Canada Eh? Dinner Show pretty much for a whole week.

What is Oh Canada Eh?
For those of you who might not be familiar with Canada's longest running dinner musical, the Oh Canada Eh? is a two-hour musical comedy featuring over seventy Canadian songs. You will hear Canadian music from the post-World War II era to modern pop, from the maritime folk songs to modern classics which were sang by Canadian artists throughout history.   You will also meet famous Canadian characters like Anne of Green Gables, a hockey player, a Mountie and lumberjacks.  Audience interaction is also expected in this special dinner show.   You will discover Canadian culture and discover the unique sense of humour Canadians have.

What to expect
The performers will be entertaining you and serving you throughout the evening.  You will laugh at their jokes and sing along as you recognize the songs performed.   It is strongly suggested that you arrive at the RA Centre for 6:15pm for the Dinner & Show and expect to leave around 9pm (sometimes a bit later as we experienced it).   

Note that is considered a family friendly performance.  The show does feature a live band and mild strobe lighting.

The menu 
The food were not only a feast for our eyes but for our stomachs as well!   This five-course family-style meal is composed of products from all around the country.   When you arrive at your table, you will be greeted by a garden salad, fresh bread and French Canadian pea soup.   The soup was enjoyed by four individuals at our table and not so much by the other three.  But that's OK because French Canadian pea soup is the kind of soup that is not loved by everyone.  (Honestly, I was born and raised in Quebec... and I have never been able to enjoy pea soup to this day!  I tried it though.  It was very different compared to the one my mom used to make.  This one is more like a pottage than real traditional pea soup.)  Forty-five minutes into the show the rest of the meal is served at your table.  It consist of Manitoba roasted chicken, lightly battered and fried Atlantic haddock, Alberta Grade 'EH' roast beef (with a delicious mushroom sauce), vegetable medley and roasted PEI potatoes.     The meal is then completed with a maple chocolate swirl cake, hot tea and coffee.  Note that diabetic, vegetarian/vegan, gluten, lactose and allergen free meals are also available upon request.  And you can order a side of mac & cheese for the kids in your party as well.

Garden salad, fresh bread, and French Canadian pea soup.

 

Main course:  roasted chicken, haddock, roast beef, vegetable medley and roasted potatoes

maple chocolate swirl cake
And for those of you who are wondering, yes there is a licensed bar that provides a fine selection of local wines, Canadian beers, mixed drinks and non-alcoholic beverages (additional charges apply for this!).
Don't worry - she did not order anything from this menu! *grin*

Our Thoughts


Our evening stated with a cocktail reception - where we were served Moose Juice as they call it.  Moose Juice is a non-alcoholic beverage by the way.  They were also serving alcoholic but we decided to stick with the non-alcoholic version. 

Our party minus one(taking the picture obviously!).

 Once we were seated - and to our surprise we were in the Gold Leaf section (more about this later) - we were able to eat a bit before the show started.  We met our server who will be performing as well during the evening and she was very nice.  After all the guests were seated, the show started and without waiting a minute, the casts entertained us with songs, historical information and...  some jokes.

Beginning of the show

Anne of Green Gables
Hockey Player



Canoe ride anyone?

More songs
We enjoyed the show and I loved to see my husband immediately singing along with most of the songs.   I personally was a bit disappointed not to hear more French Canadian song.  For example, when they interpreted some songs from Céline Dion it would have been nice to hear at least one French one since she started in that language. 

The show itself was entertaining.   And the cast do interact with the people in the room for specific parts of the show.   Unfortunately for my husband, he was picked by our server while she performed as a saloon girl during the Klondike.  Now to make things clear, her costume was very appropriate and not at all like the dresses of saloon girls we see in movies.   She was just playing a role... going from man to man just like a butterfly goes from flower to flower.   My husband was the first one to be "picked" so to speak.   As she was "flirting" with him, my son says to her "He is married you know."  To which she answers "That's how I like them."  But then she goes on to the next guy at the next table and again to another...   It was historical in a way.  My kids knew a bit about saloon girls.   But I wish that this part would be changed a bit seeing that the show is considered a family friendly performance.  Be also aware that there were also a couple of other jokes that could be felt inappropriate from some people.  

But as I think back of our evening I realize that pretty much all of us enjoyed it and thought that overall the show was well done, the food was incredible and we had a fabulous time together.   It was nice to be able to relax and be entertained at Oh Canada Eh?  

As a homeschool family, we appreciated the fact that the items on the menu were coming from various parts of the country, the history we were exposed by learning more about singers and the songs that are considered Canadian, and the variety of the performance in so many ways.   I would recommend that families who are homeschooling would consider attending this dinner show with their older children.   Be aware of the little things that could raise an eyebrow in the show and approach the subject in advance with your kids. 

At the end of the evening, as we were driving back home, we discussed about all the other potential singers/groups that could have been represented.   There were some disappointments in not hearing songs from Platinum Blonde for example.  I suppose it would have been too long of a show to include more songs from other bands that we know are Canadian....

Another thing that I think would make the menu more interesting would be to incorporate desserts from various parts of the country like Nanaimo bars for BC for example.   I would be a great way to discover the popular sweets from various part of the country in the meal.   Also, I would love to see some items from Yukon, North West Territories or Nunavut on the menu if possible. 

Dates and Prices
The Ottawa edition of the Oh Canada Eh? Dinner Show has been going on since June 28th and will continue to be presented until September 14th.    The shows are usually schedule on the evening except for some Saturdays where a lunch show is offered (note - the roast beef is not served at the lunch show).  Free parking is available.

Prices varies depending of your seating preferences.   There are three offers - Golf Leaf ($82.95), Silver Leaf ($72.95) and Maple Leaf ($62.95).  You can visualize the seating chart on their website.  If you desire to attend the show only please note that only the Maple Leaf section is available for the price of $42.95 per person.

In Conclusion
Oh Canada Eh? Dinner Show is worth discovering with your family.  As mentioned above, be aware of a few things that could offend some people.   This is definitively a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you do not want to miss in Ottawa this year!

Monday, June 24, 2019

Grade 12 Completed...

As I sit down and write this, my oldest son is writing his last exam for high school.   The past year he was full time with an online school called Virtual Learning Center (VLC for short).

He had done it part time during his grade 11 and went full time for his grade 12.   Through this year he also went through the process of applying for university.

This particular semester was a bit heavy for him since he had four classes - Advanced Functions, Chemistry, Biology and Calculus and Vectors.   But he did amazingly well...

He applied in three different programs for university:
Choice #1 - Bachelor of Sciences in Biomedical at UOttawa
Choice #2 - Bachelor in Health Science option Biomedical at Carleton University
Choice #3 - Bachelor in Health Science.

He was accepted in all three with scholarship.  So proud of him...

So next September he embark on a journey of learning in Biomedical.  He is looking forward to it.

We started homeschooling him officially when he was going to be in grade 1.   It was worth it in many ways and I would encourage parents to seriously consider homeschooling your kids during the high school.

One has finished.  I still have three at home...  but somehow I have a feeling of accomplishment when I know that he is pursuing his dream to work in the medical field.  He hopes to be able to go into Medical School but he already has backup plans.  

Congrats Alex!  So proud of you!


You're the One - Original Song - Instrumental Guitar Composed by my son!


Oldest has been composing music in his spare time.  This is the latest one he has done - other ones are on his YouTube channel including an adorable Happy Birthday one!


Wednesday, March 13, 2019

Owling


Owling: Enter the World of the Mysterious Birds of the Night
By Mark Wilson
Published at: Storey Publishing
About the book
From Hedwig, the Snowy Owl of Harry Potter fame, to Winnie-the-Pooh’s beloved friend Owl, this wide-eyed bird of the night has found its way into young hearts and imaginations everywhere. Owling invites young readers into the world of real-life owls, to learn about their fascinating behaviors and abilities. 

Wildlife photojournalist and nature educator Mark Wilson presents a one-of-a-kind look into the mysterious lives of these distinctive birds. Dramatic images of the 19 owl species of North America nesting, flying, hunting, and catching prey are accompanied by information about the birds’ silent flight, remarkable eyes and ears, haunting calls, and fascinating night life. Kids will learn how to spot owls; identify their calls, plumage, and pellets; and even carry on a hooting conversation with a nearby owl.

My Thoughts
My daughter has fallen in love with owls ever since she read the book series titled Guardians of Ga’Hoole.  To be honest I have lost count how many times she has read this series in the past two years.  Every time she sees something that is owl related she is delighted.  More recently, we had the privilege to see a snowy owl in a field near our home as we were going to church.  My daughter was all excited to have seen one in the wild.


She isn’t the only one who enjoy seeing owls.   I love anything related to bird watching. Needless to say that having the opportunity to review Owling is extra special in this household because I know that my daughter will particularly like this book.

The book is packed with information concerning owls.   The table of contents is very precise in what it covers.

  • Chapter 1: All About Owls – This chapter will present you information about owl like the parts of an owl head, it’s body parts, the fact that owls can turn their head in circle, their eyes, night vision, hearing, their predatory skills, their flight, their feathers, their feet, their beak, and so on.
  • Chapter 2: Introducing the Owls – This chapter starts with the scientific names for owls and then jump directly in presenting all the different owls we can see in the wild,  More specifically, you will learn about Owls of North America, Barn Owl, Flammulated Owl, Western Screech-Owl, Eastern Screech-Owl, Whickered Screech-Owl, Great Horned Owl, Snowy Owl, Northern Hawk Owl, Northern Pygmy-Owl, Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl, Elf Owl, Burrowing Owl, Spotted Owl, Barred Owl, Great Gray Owl, Long-eared Owl, Short-Eared Owl, Boreal Owl, and Northern Saw-whet Owl.  For each of these owls, you will learn their scientific name, their old names, how to identify them, their range and habitat, their voice, their nesting behavior, their hunting habits and their menu. 
  • Chapter 3: How to Find Owls – This chapter will allow you to discover when and how to find owls in the wild. You will also learn about owl pellets and how to build an owl house.
  • Chapter 4: Working with Owls – This chapter will present you all the different jobs that allow someone to work close to owls whether you are a wildlife specialist or an artist.


The book also includes a glossary, a list of places to see owls in captivity. an index as well as a metric conversion chart.  Just to give you an idea of what the pages look like in the book check the pages below.






As you can see this book contains numerous pictures, a ton of information as well as fascinating facts about owls.   It would make a wonderful gift to someone who enjoy birds in general or is a fan of owls of all sorts. This book is also great for someone who desire to make a school project on owls.,,It is a fabulous reference when studying birds.

Owling is available for purchase at your favorite bookstore, even on amazon.ca and amazon.com.

 

Disclaimer: Thanks to Thomas Allen for sending me the above mentioned book for review purposes. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way. All opinions expressed here are only my own.