Author: MamatheFox

Beginner Knitting Projects for Starters

Anyone can start knitting and there are several good reasons why you should consider it. In fact research confirms that knitting can help to relieve stress and assist people to deal with mental health issues.

Considering we all live in a stressful world this is definitely something that everyone can benefit from. Of course you’ll probably have an image in your head of two elderly ladies clinking needles while sharing the latest gossip. Once this may have been right but now knitting has become exceptionally popular with people of all generations.

The great thing is that it’s easy to start and surprisingly therapeutic to do. All you need is to click this link and choose your yarn, a set of needles and your favorite beginner pattern. It takes a few moments to learn the basic stitches and then you’ll be off!

Here are some great projects for any beginner:

Scarf

In essence this is simply a row of stitches repeated over and over again unit you reach the desired length. The initial row will dictate the width of your finished scarf.

Of course there are a variety of different stitches you can use and advanced versions will allow you to add in different colors and even monograms. But, your basic one color pattern is a great starting point.

The Hat

A hat may seem complicated but it’s actually almost as easy as the scarf! In fact the simplest form of hat is made in the same way as a scarf. The wider your row of stitches the taller the hat will be. The length of the knitting will reflect the diameter of the head.

Once you’ve made a straight piece simply seam the two ends together to make a circular opening for a head. The top will scrunch slightly. You can stitch a bobble to it or tie a bow through it to make it a bobble hat!

If you’re feeling adventurous you can even try mixing the colors or using multicolored yarn.

The Blanket

This is also the same premise as the basic scarf. However, you’ll be looking to make this with a closer stitch and significantly wider than the scarf.

The easiest way for a beginner to achieve this is to knit several scarves and then seam them all together. In this way you can make the blanket as big as you like and add an array of color to it.

Socks

What’s better at keeping your feet warm in the winter than a pair of wooly socks? These may seem more complicated but they are actually a very similar process to the hat. You’ll need to start with a strip of knitting; this time it is the width that will dictate the height of the socks on your legs. Then knit the rows and simple wrap them together to make a tube. Stitch the two sides into a tube and the seam the end to stop your toe poking out.

They may not have a heel point but they’re a great way to start knitting and build your confidence.

i-Top Game Giveaway

Welcome to the Dashing Giveaway Hop

Hosted by MamatheFox

Prize Sponsored by Goliath Games

Enter for your chance to win an i-Top game from Goliath Games!

In the meanwhile, check out this huge competition over at i-Top Challenge where you can win more prizes!

i-Top is the fun new game that works by using smart technology. These high-tech top keeps track of the number of spins, while LEDs light up the display. Unlock hidden features to show special animations or challenge your friend to a high score. Check out your local Target for exclusive i-Top packaging ideally sized for stockings! For ages 7 and up.

Must-Have Winter Accessories

As it happens every year, of course, the cold seasons have returned – and this time with a vengeance in certain parts of the country. The East Coast of the US is always frigid once November and December roll around; this time, the West is also experiencing frigid days. So much so that even in Southern California, people are breaking out the winter wardrobe basics, gloves, and beanie hats.

Functionality is one thing, but there’s no reason you should have to sacrifice fashion completely just to keep warm. There are plenty of options that allow you to keep the cold at bay, while also extraverting your own personal sense of style. The windbreaker jacket, hat, gloves and scarf you wear ought to put your personality on display; winter accessories are no reason to eschew the image you present to the world at the expense of being properly bundled up. With that said, let’s check out the following winter accessories and what attributes you should consider before investing in them

Winter Socks: Cold Starts From the Bottom

The types of material used in making thick, warm socks for the winter months runs the gamut. You can find them made from lambswool, cold-resistant leather blend, polyester blends that don’t shrink in the wash, and cotton blends that help them retain their softness. Furthermore, the long socks can be great for fashion lovers, since you can get rings of color in them that peak out from the region between the top of your boots and the bottom of your pants or skirt. This color burst works especially well when you have dark winter colors forming the bulk of your outfit.

Some of the color options for winter socks include navy, forest green, desert beige and mustard to break up the sameness of your dark apparel. For an optimal walking day out, you want to make sure the socks provide warmth without being so thick as to exacerbate sweating in your shoes.

Protect Your Extremities with Gloves

It’s common knowledge that – especially for women – your core will extract heat from your fingers and toes in a bid to keep itself warm when the temperature outside dips. For this reason, gloves are crucial accessory once the wind becomes biting. Leather is a tried and true fabric that keeps the wind out, and in so doing, maintains the warmth you left the house with. Wool is another winner in the winter; it actively keeps you warm and has fibers that naturally wick away moisture. Sheep have known this for thousands of years, after all!

When going the hand gloves route, consider darker colors such as gray, navy or black; these can match any assortment of clothing under the sun. If you know what you’re doing and your wardrobe agrees, then add some color like striped patterns or designs to your choice of gloves.

Neck Scarves

For an added layer of warmth, consider this quintessential fashion accessory for keeping your neck warm. After all, it’s a relatively thin area of the body, and can lose a good amount of heat if left unadorned in cold weather. A dark, bold color probably isn’t the best for this one, as the expectation of color and style is center-stage with a neck scarf. Nonetheless, you might be able to pull off the navy wool; depending on the rest of your outfit.

Keep in mind that scarves, more than any other accessory, are considered “extra”; thus, they are more easily given to experimentation of style. So although wool is very warm, cashmere or merino might be more functional and less irritating against your skin – especially after a prolonged escapade into the elements. There are few items of clothing (accessories, that is) more beautiful than an elaborate scarf twirling around the coat rack after you take it off at your destination.

Hat or Cap for Your Head

When it gets really cold, a hat or beanie is no longer considered an accessory, but instead a pretty much mandatory part of your ensemble. Only people who live on the East Coast of the United States or around frigid zones such as Minnesota, need to concern themselves with hats for every trip outside. Even so, you want the correct fabric – something that’s protective and warm, but also soft enough to reside on your scalp for much of the day. Since your head is not as sensitive as your neck, wool hats or beanies are a good bet. As for colors, black never fails to disappoint; but a more invested color like dark green or burgundy can work wonders with the right outfit.

Shopping for winter accessories can be quite the bit of fun; you get to consider beanies and gloves that possess just as much style as functionality. It’s not only practical, but a chance to show off your personal style.

Razor A Scooter & Helmet Giveaway

We-The-Parents-Giveaway-1

Sponsored By: WeTheParents

WeTheParents.org was founded by mom and dad team, Neve and Keane. A pair of geeky parents, these two love to get nerdy, testing and reviewing the gear that moms and dads apparently need. They’ve recently turned their unhealthy research habits to kids toys and their newest obsessions are kick scooters (take a peek at their in-depth guide and reviews) and kids electric scooters (if you’re interested, check out this article).

Winner Will Receive

One Razor ‘A’ Scooter AND one Razor V-17 Helmet

Scooter color choices: Blue, Pink, Red, or Clear (must be in-stock)
Helmet color choices: Blue, Pink, Yellow, Purple, Camo, or Black (must be in-stock)
Helmet type: You can choose from Razor V-17 Child (5-8yrs) or Razor V-17 Youth (8-14yrs)

As a bonus, you will also receive frustration-free packaging! A $67 RV!

We-The-Parents-Giveaway-1

Razor A Scooter

– Original kick scooter made of sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum;
– Patented t-tube and deck design folds conveniently for transport;
– 98 mm inline-style urethane wheels with ABEC 5 bearings;
– Patented rear fender brake for Quick stops;
– Recommended for ages 5 and older; supports riders up to 143 pounds

Razor V-17 Helmet (Youth or Child)

– Cutting-edge children’s safety helmet for biking, skating, and more;
– Ergonomic interior padding is comfortable and secure;
– 17 top and side vents help rider keep a cool head on hot days;
– Side release buckles adjust and fasten quickly; sleek black gloss color;
– Child Size fits head sizes 21.5 to 22 inches; 5-8yrs;
– Youth Size fits head sizes 21.5 to 23 inches; 8-14yrs;
– Complies with CPSC standards

Open to US entries only and must be 18+ to enter
Giveaway Dates: 12/3 9:00 AM EST through 12/15 11:59PM EST
You must enter at least once, but you can get extra entries for completing bonus tasks.
Just follow the instructions within the Giveaway Tool.

 

Disclosure: No participating bloggers are not held responsible for sponsors who do not fulfill their prize obligations. The winner will be randomly drawn by Giveaway Tools and will be notified by email. The winner has 48 hours to reply before a replacement winner will be drawn. This giveaway is not sponsored or endorsed by any social media outlet including, but not limited to, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest. Please contact Neve (at) WeTheParents (dot) org regarding any questions you have pertaining to this giveaway.

Hot Holiday Toys for Girls and Boys

Are you trying to find a hot new toy for the kids in your life this holiday season?

Look no further – we found them!

Boys and girls are going nuts for Grumblies and Pomsies!

 

 

 

Grumbles are exciting shakin’, groovin’ and movin’ toys with an attitude! Grumblies live secretly hidden from mankind. Short-tempered and mischievous, bands of grumblies create supernatural chaos, such as earthquakes, Volcanos, and supernatural chaos!

The Legend of Grumblies

Mischievous and short-tempered, Grumblies’ powerful tantrums are the root source of mother nature’s awesome power.

 

Poke Them

Poke a sleeping Grumbly in the belly and you’ll startle them awake. Keep poking and there may be gassy consequences.

Flip them

Flip Grumblies around and upside down. Warning: May cause dizziness, belching and tossing of cookies.

Shake Them

Not grumpy enough? Time to shake things up. Shake Grumblies back and forth to send them into hysterics.

Meltdown Imminent

You can also try rolling, juggling or smacking Grumblies. The only real rule is don’t follow the rules.

 

 

 

If you are wanting a soft, cute and adorable to then Pomsies are what you need!

Love Them & They Love You Back

Pomsies are lovable, wearable pom-pom pets you can take anywhere.  They’re smart as they are cute & cuddly. Pomsies react when you touch and pet them.  Up to 50 different reactions! You can even feel it when they purr!  Each Pomsies pet includes a brush to keep their fur soft and pretty.

Wear, Where? Anywhere!

Pomsies make purrfect fashion accessories — Wrap their tails around your wrist, backpack or anywhere!

Pet Them

Pomsies react when you cuddle them. Try petting them on the back of their head, forehead or under their nose!

Feed Them

Grumble, grumble. Uh-oh, Pomsies are hungry!  Tap them on the mouth to feed them.

Dance With Them

Got moves?  The faster you dance and shake, the faster Pomsies sing their happy song!

The Best Things To Buy In November

The most celebrated time of the year – for most people around the world – fast approaches in the months of November and December. Perhaps it’s because the fall and winter seasons bring people and families together for warmth, and lead resolutely into Thanksgiving and then Christmas. Get-togethers and shopping skyrocket in these months (see Black Friday for example), and it can sometimes be difficult to prioritize the things you want.

It is with this in mind that we’ve compiled a list for you of the best things to buy in November. The price mark-downs on most of these can be downright breathtaking, and represent wonderful opportunities to scoop up things that you’ve always planned on getting – but that were a tad bit too expensive during the spring and summer. You can get something for both his and hers, or maybe your family’s Christmas gift exchange, and get ready to start off the New Year right.

1.Television Sets

When it comes to the best time to buy that new television set, the month of November wins hands-down. After all, the two big bonanza sale days belong to this month: Black Friday and Cyber Monday (the latter is obviously recent, given the explosion of mobile devices in the post 2010-era). Just make sure you pay close attention to the specs to ensure you’re actually getting the advertised good deal.

2. For the Cook and Baker

Another door-buster on the holidays are for baking supplies. Even if you don’t consider yourself a seasoned chef, all the essentials and condiments you could want for any delicatessen will be available at slashed prices in November. There are spices, sugar, cake mixes of all varieties – our favorite is carrot cake mix – and the associated kitchen appliances such as wire whisks and electric can openers on sale. Enjoy the hunt!

3. Organize Your Kitchen – Food Storage Containers

At first glance, this might seem a bit…random or maybe even spurious. Why food storage containers? Well if your house is like most homes in the post-Thanksgiving weeks, you’re going to have a lot of leftovers. Christmas brings extra food, too, so you might as well take advantage of the big savings on food storage containers found at the largest retail stores this November. Besides that, you could even snag some great discounts on all home-related items and more, if you can make use of platforms such as Discounts for Teachers. This can, obviously, be availed only if you have worked as or are a teacher at any educational institution. Furthermore, you’ll likely want to have family and friends take away some of the extra food – what better encouragement that providing them with the discount plastic bags and containers you got at rock-bottom prices?

4. Halloween Discounts? Read More…

Since October would have ended not too long ago by the time November is here, you could consider getting hugely discounted Halloween-themed gear for next year now. You won’t find them at lower prices, since November is officially the off-season for the spooky months and suppliers have got to clear their inventory. Candy will keep for years, as well as the decorations and adornments you’ll need next time around.

5. Winter Preparations for the Home

Every November in the Western Hemisphere brings the first markedly cold drafts of the year with it; as such, it’s time to winterize your home through February, until the reticent Sun emerges regularly once again. This is well-known, and so the market reflects the fact by offering discounts on insulation, caulking and more operations meant to help keep you warm and toasty.

6. Perfumes and Colognes

Nothing wows those in proximity to you more than a subtly elegant fragrance. Although you cannot reasonably expect to locate the big name-brand fragrances such as L’Homme on sale, you most certainly can find some quite good ones on Cyber Monday without ever leaving the comfort of your home. Or, join the mad dash on Black Friday and grab the best ones you can!

7. Hardware & Tools

You can also find awesome discounts in the home improvement section of many stores on Black Friday. Everyone else will likely be focused on the electronics, leaving you to roam unimpeded through the tools and hardware for all those DIY projects that pique your interest from time to time. You can find deals as varied as carpeting and flooring, to even landscaping appliances.

For the power tool fanatic in the home, you are bound to get some deals on Cordless Power Tools and energy banks – and it shouldn’t take much shopping around to get to them. All the major brand names are on sale (usually) on Black Friday, because of the competition – the engine that drives robust economies.

8. Bridal Dresses

This is more common than you think, and the discounts on fantastic wedding dresses in November has been going on for a long time – it’s certainly better to get one now for your upcoming wedding than in summer when the prices skyrocket.

This November, make sure you’re not too late checking out the door buster deals that follow Thanksgiving and precede Christmas

The Best Things to Buy in December

In December, shopping is the norm, regardless of whether it’s for you, your kids, spouse or family members. During this month friends, families or loved ones come together to celebrate, share their experiences, wine, and drink as well as show appreciation to one another through gifts. As such, some of the common items in the long shopping lists and bags include groceries and presents. Aside from such things, you can purchase other remarkable items to put a smile on yourself and those you love during the festive season. Check out some of the cool items you may want to buy in December to get the best deals:

  1. Gift Cards

Photo by Joshua Rainey Photography

Free gifts cards make up one of the ideal ways of getting more value for your money, especially in December. You can look up weekly advertisements put up by various stores near you for products that are accompanied by a free gift card. In most cases, electronics and personal cares items come with such cards. What’s more, most restaurants give a bonus when you buy gift cards.

  1. Pajamas

With winter taking over December, pajamas can be an ideal gift. Aside from being cozy, they are easy to shop for since you do not need to know the recipient ‘s size. For this reason, pajamas are mostly cheap during this month. You can also find specially made gift sets to help you give your PJ drawer some new life.

  1. Seasonal Meats

Nothing brings the December holiday cheer better than good food and more importantly seasonal meats like brisket, prime rib, turkey and ham, particularly for meat lovers. Although these meats are available for consumption throughout the year, keep in mind that they will be high on demand in December. As such, take advantage of the December deals on seasonal meats to prepare for post-holiday feasts by stocking up your freezer.

  1. Electronics

If you are looking for an awesome item to buy in December, the electronics section ought to be on your mind. For best offers on these products, visit or contact your favorite retailer only on Mondays in December. The reason is that most people tend to visit electronic or retail stores during the weekends. However, Mondays present a great opportunity to score the best deals on your desired electronic items since retailers are aware that most people are back to work and can only engage in online shopping.

  1. Champagne

December marks the close of the year. As such, it is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the events of the year, what you did, what you did not do and more importantly celebrate! What better way to enjoy the moment than when sipping some good bottle of champagne? However, this does not mean that ought to limit yourself to this drink only, as it can be expensive compared to various alternatives such as sparkling wine. Furthermore, ensure that you take advantage of the great deals on champagne and sparkling wines on offer by various retailers or stores.

  1. Football Gear

Photo by dean bertoncelj

Although the list of teams playing in the playoffs may have narrowed down in December, the good thing is that you can get your favorite football team’s gear at a discounted price thanks to a losing season. Although during this month the stands may be cold, there may be no better time to get the best discounts on game tickets and team merchandise. If you want to get something that is unique and personalized, you may want to look at buying Custom Hoodies that have their name and favorite team on so it is a stand-alone piece of ‘merch’ that no one else has.

  1. Clothing (December 26)

Clothing items are one of the most common gift items during the holidays. Due to this demand, the prices may not be too favorable for you, especially before December 26 (Boxing Day). Hence, you may need to wait till this day to get some great clothing deals for spicing up your holiday and giving your wardrobe a makeover. Be sure to buy clothes that suit layering so you can add or remove bulk easily as the weather changes.

  1. A Car

If you are looking for your dream car, getting it at the end of December month is a good idea. You might be able to score yourself a good car deal, as most car dealerships usually clear out their inventory during this time to make room for new cars. fYou’ll need to make sure that you are choosing a reputable dealership that can provide you what you need and has motor trade insurance to operate professionally and safely, otherwise, you could be in hot water with a dodgy car that they haven’t properly checked, which they may not care much about if they didn’t bother to get insurance for their dealership. Try approaching a car dealership on 30th or 31st December and sneak in your negotiation talent to increase your chances of getting the best car deal or an additional discount. You could also use an invoice calculator (to know more, check https://invoice-pricing.com/calculator.cfm) to figure out what the best price is for a new car.

  1. Hardware and tools

If you are a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) enthusiast, then you can appreciate the value of a new set of tools around the house. December happens to be the best month for landing affordable tools and deals. They can also make an excellent gift choice, especially for your dad. Hence, do not miss the opportunity to score great deals on general tool sets, drills, wrenches, and more items in December.

How to Have a Greener Christmas

 

 

If you’re one of the countless people who feel they have at least an ounce of responsibility to the planet on which we all reside, then reducing your carbon footprint should be a priority in the coming month – and the best time to start is this Christmas season with the holiday gifts you give.

Consider Local Gift-Hunting

Just think: when you ship something across the nation or even to another country, there are a host of greenhouse gas emissions that trail your package. This means climate change – more specifically, global warming – is an indirect consequence of a lot of round the world shipping. To minimize this, consider gifts that are made locally, near the position of the gift-receiver. If your Secret Santa recipient is one of those people that is in love with the “locally made” scene, this could be a very smart choice!

 

Additionally, local gifts tend to be made from recycled materials – the wrapping, in particular. By skipping battery-powered presents, you don’t contribute to the 40% increase in battery sales that occur during the holidays. Batteries, of course are not always disposed of properly and can represent an environmental hazard.

Christmas Season Activities in Nature

Although giving and receiving to and from family is a magnificent thing that elicits warm feelings that last throughout the year, you can enhance this further by connecting with nature. Take the family out and explore the principles of sustainable living, as well as taking active steps to become more in tune with your surroundings. For example, you could engage in a bird count with your family members, by recording the name and species of every bird – as well as the numbers of them that you see. If you keep this kind of thing up consistently each year, you’ll fully understand migration patterns, endangered statuses and much more.

Take Care With Electronic Devices

Basically, avoid throwing old electronics away. Your old phones and laptops may work well with some maintenance and repair work. Get in touch with an electronic repair shop provider like nz smart services to save some of your old devices. If it still doesn’t work, do not toss the electronics into the landfill. It’s much better to find one of the many specified electronic disposal bins to do your part in recycling. All those old cameras, tv sets, monitors, smartphones, tablets, etc, have internal batteries (oftentimes) that should not be disposed of regularly.

Downsize the Electricity Bill for Christmas Lighting

This doesn’t mean that you necessarily need to reduce the lights you put up; after all, solar LED lights are a big way to save as well as reduce your carbon footprint at the same time. You ultimately contribute to less natural gas and oil being burned with this strategy, as LEDs use just 5% of the energy as the old incandescent.

 

For example, a string of light with 100 LEDs uses as much as energy as a single 40 watt light bulb – while pouring out many times the amount of light. This of course translates to big cost savings for you; from say $20 for the older, wasteful kind of lighting, to a tenth of a penny for the newer LEDs.

Green Options for Wrapping Paper

Wrapping is big business – especially around the holiday season. Starting in late October and early November, the quantities purchased sky-rocket; you can do your part to reduce the inevitable waste by skipping out on the hard-to-reuse metallic, glossy wrapping paper and going for the recycled brands. They can be nearly as beautiful, and are much more environmentally friendly. Additionally, if you have wrapping paper that isn’t exactly green but you prefer it, then make it a point to reuse it year-after-year as family members open their presents – just impress upon everyone the need to open them carefully!

 

Shopping on a Christmas budget, and reducing your carbon footprint are excellent holiday goals.With this, we wish you both a Merry Christmas and a very Green Christmas this holiday season!

 

Behold! Xnspy is Offering a Mammoth 40% Discount on its Cyber Week Sale

I am a strong supporter of smartphone monitoring apps, be it for your kids or family. They help us all in controlling our kids’ smartphone use and to protect them from the harmful effects of their overuse. They are packed with so many features and easily available online. While they usually don’t come cheap, and nothing is expensive when it comes to the safety of your child. Why not buy them at this time of the year when you can save some extra bucks?

 

Yes! Xnspy, one of the most popular smartphone monitoring apps online, is offering a gigantic 40% discount as part of Cyber Monday promotions. If you were looking to subscribe to kids monitoring app, then this is the right time get one. I will explain in this post how you can avail this discount from their website.

 

How to Avail Xnspy Cyber Monday Discount?

 

It is that moment of the year when we all wait to buy our favorite things on hefty discounts. Xnspy has surprised its users with its discount deal for Cyber Monday by offering FLAT 40% on all its packages. Here is all you need to know about how to avail the discount.

 

  • Log on to www.xnspy.com. Remember this app is not available on App Store or Google Play Store, so you can only download it through Xnspy’s official website. Beware of using your card on any other website.

 

  • On their website, click on the “Buy Now” option anywhere on the home page.
  • You will be directed to the “Buy Now” page where two packages will be displayed in front of you. You can choose either of them for monthly, quarterly, and yearly durations. The longer the duration of your plan, the greater will be the discount.

Figure 1: Click on this Buy Now option after selecting a plan

 

  • Click on a package of your choice and it will direct you to the checkout page.

  • On the checkout page, there will be a blank space by the name of “Discount Code” right under the “Xnspy Plans” option. Enter the discount code “XCM40” in this blank space and select “Apply” option next to it.

Figure 2: Insert the code XCM40 here

  • When you apply this code, 40% price of the selected package will be slashed and you will see the updated price on the screen.

Figure 3: The updated price after applying the code.

 

  • Now click on the checkbox to agree to the terms and conditions and proceed to the checkout to complete the sale.

 

How can Xnspy assist you?

 

The premium package of Xnspy has more than 35 features.  These are some of the noteworthy mentions:

 

  • It is available for both iPhone and Android. The good thing is that you can use it on the latest Android Oreo 8.0 or iOS 12.1. There is no need to root or jailbreak the smartphones to use it on the older versions.

 

  • Xnspy gives you control of the target phone remotely. It offers a variety of remote monitoring functions to see what happening around the person. For example, if your kid is spending hours and hours on YouTube and you can’t do anything about it, then you can simply use its remote function to lock the tab or phone.

 

  • Sometimes you are too busy to go through every piece of monitored information. If you want to make monitoring more specific to save your time, then you can set watch lists in Xnspy for different information. You can set separate watch lists for word, locations, emails, and contacts in your Xnspy account. Once a piece of information, which has been added to the watch list, appears on the target phone, you are instantly notified.

 

  • Parents often wonder what their kids are up to when they are out with friends or at a party. If you don’t want to appear like a helicopter parent to your kids or his friends then you can use Xnspy surround record feature. This feature can record the surroundings of your kid’s phone without notifying them or putting them on a call. And it can make recording clips up to 30 minutes in a single session.

 

So if you are interested in buying a smartphone monitoring app then log on to the Xnspy’s page and avail this amazing discount before the promotion ends.