Author: MamatheFox


Mar
2015

Collage.com Review

categories: Reviews

Collage.com Review

collage.com review

We all have phones and computers full of digital photos. We love to click, zoom and snap moments all day long. Now what to do with them? The solution is collage.com

Collage.com‘s unique state-of-the-art software allows users to upload photos not only from their tablets, phones and computers but also social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Flickr! That cute photo of your child located on your significant others Facebook wall, the one you don’t have saved to the computer, no problem for collage.com! You can take these photos and have them printed on more items then you can imagine. Standard items like canvases, calendars, and mugs, and more unique items like beach towels, shower curtains, tablet and phone cases and more (a comprehensive list is located at the bottom of this page).

Custom printed items make such lovely gift ideas too! A friend of mine who lives in France told me that she has made a personalized mug for her boss using photos of some of his favorite things for his birthday. My friend told me that if you want to Créez votre mug personnalisé avec vos photos (that means create a personalized mug with photos for any of my readers that do not speak French!) then there are some fantastic resources out there that can make your dreams come true. It really is so amazing that gifts can now be custom made using your own photos. There is nothing quite like a personal touch after all.

Anyway, Collage.com was started by co-founder Kevin Borders when he wanted to do something with his girlfriends (what felt like) 50 million digital photos. So Kevin got together with his childhood friend, and co-founder, Joe Golden. Together they created their Michigan based company, which has now expanded to hold more than 25 employees and has been featured on shows like Good Morning America and The Today Show. Of course, they use social media heavily to try and find potential customers. They use Instagram mostly to show pictures of their products. They are very consistent with their posts, but they could automate this process by using one of the many Insta bots out there. Perhaps that could help them to find even more customers. Of course, there is a wide range of services that businesses like Collage.com could use to grow their social media presence and overall popularity. The Small Business Blog wrote a review on the services available to account users and therefore was able to recommend the ones best suited to businesses to help them with their sales. Social media is a great tool when it comes to business, so it’s important that account users know the potential that their social media holds.

Photo Blankets: “Memories That Keep You Warm”

Each of their blankets are printed on high quality, durable fleece or velveteen, and are machine washable. They are a short plush to ensure the photos stay as sharp as possible. They can be used as a wall covering, a picnic blanket or a couch throw; very versatile. The blankets come in 2 sizes: 50″ x60″, 60″ x80″

Care Instructions:

It is best to machine-wash your blanket separately in cold water on a delicate cycle. It is safe to tumble dry on a low heat setting.

Do not bleach, dry clean or iron the blanket.

Custom Options:

  • Upload your photos from: your computer, tablet, phone, Facebook, Instagram, Flickr.
  • Add text like “The Fox Family” “Danielle’s 1st Year” “Fox Family Reunion” “I love warm hugs”…you get the idea
  • Choice of portrait or landscape.
  • Borders, Backgrounds, Shapes….and more!

The Fox Family Blanket

Placing an order with collage.com is such an easy and self explanatory process. The buttons are easily recognized and understandable. Once you click a product to design you will be given many choices. Options like: where to pull your pictures from, adding text, adding shapes and designs, adding a background, portrait or landscape, and many more.

website to order

The software will alert the user if their photos are not of a high enough resolution. You might see a red exclamation mark with the notice “Some images may appear blurry on final product. Please add more photos to your collage.” This handy notification helps ensure that you receive the highest quality products. While it might look in focus and of correct proportion on your computer screen this is not the real-life size of your product. A 50 by 60 blanket is only 30 times larger then my computer screen. I added around 40 pictures to my blanket. Some of the smaller pictures are not the most clear, but that is because they were taken with my cell phone (not a professional grade camera) along with me adding so many pictures. If I added less photos then the smaller photos would have been larger and a tad more clear. I stopped adding photos when I did because I felt it was compete then. I still had the red exlThe caring staff at collage.com wants every order and every customer to be pleased and fall in love with their purchase. So please be sure to take their advice, they are after all the experts.

full 1After ordering I waited with baited breath for my blanket. How will it really look. Will it be soft and usable as a blanket? Will it feel hard and have texture? Will the pictures peel off? So many thoughts and questions ran through my mind. Then the day came! My blanket arrived. As soon as I touched it I feel in love. I unfolded the amazingly soft material to reveal the photos of my life. My favorite people and moments I have even experienced. Tears of joy flooded my eyes. It is perfect. It is my family. The photos are beautiful and the high quality far surpassed my expectations.

The blanket itself is a creamy, soft fleece. The kind that is smooth to the touch, upclose mamaand soft enough for a newborn baby to be laid on. All of the hemming is clean, and straight. The photos are clear and are completely embedded in the fabric. It is not simply screened on. Your toddler cannot pick at the photos and peel it off. I love how the photos are the blanket, not just pasted on it. I’m just amazed.

Here are a few close up photos I took of the blanket. These are not screen shots of my order off my computer but the actual blanket. Notice the high quality of the photos!

photos 3

I cannot say enough wonderful things about collage.com, their products and their helpful staff. If you need a gift for this Mothers Day I recommend making a custom blanket as her gift. You cannot go wrong with the gift of “memories that keep you warm”.

Fans of MamatheFox can now buy one of these amazing blankets for only $45! That is a $64.99 savings! Click here to order one now.

Follow Collage.com for more promotions, offers, products and more!

Facebook Instagram Pinterest Twitter

Some of their products include

For the photo addict in your life – grab them a gift card to use at Collage.com!

For the next big event on your life – bulk ordering! Reunions, sports teams, churches, organizations, nonprofits…and more.

Here is your chance to win your own custom blanket from collage.com!

Giveaway


Mar
2015

Honey Mustard Sauce

categories: Mama's Recipes

Honey Mustard Sauce

Honey mustard is one of those sauces that makes you excited, like drooling excited. Now you can make your own and its easier then you might have thought. One way to really make it special is to use The Mustard Man’s ‘Simply Horsey’ mustard as your mustard base. This gives it that light kick you want in a good honey mustard.

This is the perfect dip for your Easter ham and for those left over Easter Ham sandwiches!

Ingredients:

How to:

Take 3 tablespoons of Mayonnaise

mayoAdd 1 tablespoon honey

honey

Add 3 tablespoons of The Mustard Man ‘Simply Horsey’ mustard

all

Mix well and enjoy!

done with mama

 


Mar
2015

Crayola “My First Crayola” – Review

categories: Reviews

Crayola “My First Crayola” – Review

I was chosen to review several My First Crayola products by Crayola. Having a 2 year old and a 1 year old, the My First Crayola product line is perfect for my family. I am able to allow my children to play, use their imagination, and incorporate all of their senses in a safe and non-messy environment.

I am not a ‘clean freak’ necessarily but the thought of allowing my children to use paint or markers scares me. I see how they act with pasta sauce, peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, really all food… I practically get sick thinking of paint or marker all over my dining room or their bodies and clothing. That was until I was exposed to My First Crayola products. The amazing team at Crayola has created a clean and fun line of products I can happily place in my toddlers hands without 50 wet rags on standby.

My First Crayola Egg Crayons

My First Crayola Egg Crayon

 

“My First Crayola Scribbled Egg Crayons are solid crayon colors in a fun, easy-to-grip shape! These whimsical art tools are both colorful and full of color-and made to outlast toddlerhood! Includes 3 Scribbled Egg Crayons.”

egg crayonsThis pack of crayons comes with a yellow, blue, and red egg-shaped crayon. My son was so excited that he was able to hold onto a crayon like his big sister. He watches her color all the time and gets upset when he is unable to hold the crayon or drops it due to his less developed motor skills. These egg-shaped crayons are perfect for small hands learning how to hold. Once he gained enough confidence holding the crayon, he started to try and move it on the page to color. Seeing his reaction when he saw marks on the page was priceless. He is still at the age where he wants to try to put all items in his mouths. I can rest assured knowing that all the Crayola products are non-toxic and safe for both my children.

My First Busy Bag Art Kit

Busy Bag 1

 

“It’s an art kit that is designed to be just right for little hands. All-in-one kit contains creative tools for the budding artist, everything they need for coloring, drawing, painting and creative dough sculpting is neatly arranged in a durable storage case that’s always ready to go. Recommended for ages 3 and up. Kit Includes: Durable plastic art case, 6 washable triangular crayons, 4 washable markers, 3 dough colors (total 5.2 oz.), Dough-storage tub, Mini pad, 24 activity sheets.”

My daughter was beyond thrilled when she saw that she was going to be able to play with colored dough. She asked for her scissors immediately (not included; available here). This kit has a little bit of everything for your tiny artist. The activity sheets have beautiful, fun pictures featuring animals, playground scenes, automobiles, and loads of other pictures which will spark your child’s imagination so they can make it their own.

This set features triangular shaped crayons which are developmentally appropriate for young children. While a 3 year old is able to hold a circular crayon, the triangular shape helps their fingers find the correct placement for their fingers. This placement allows them to build confidence in themselves and their ability to draw and write independently. A large majority of us remember those days back in early elementary school, trying to learn the “right way” to hold our pencil. These triangular shaped crayons help kids naturally figure out this necessary skill.

Secure TipMarkers, what can I say? I have a love/hate relationship with them. They are bold. They are exciting. They are messy! Once in a while I need to take a deep breath and let the kids use them. They are beyond elated when getting to use that coveted marker. The first thing my daughter likes to do it repeatedly ‘stab’ the paper with the blunt tip end of a marker. That full arm strength jab. Typically a marker is ‘dead’ after one session with my marker aggressive daughter; the tip is shoved completely inside the tube so I toss it in the trash. These markers, however, are not your average marker. These markers have a special short and rounded tip. This allows for a child to press as hard as they want on the paper but without permanently damaging the marker! Genius! I applaud Crayola with this one ::insert light golf clap:: Crayola has named these markers their Secure Tip; the tips cannot be pinched off or crushed.

My First Crayola Mess-Free Marker and Paper

Max with Moo Moo

Magically reveal colorful patterns with this mess-free marker and paper set! Cute character marker is designed to fit neatly in a toddler’s palm grip. Instantly reveals colorful patterns on the magic paper. Clear ink colors only on magic paper-not on skin, walls or fabric. Includes 1 mess-free character marker and 15 sheets of magic paper. Refill paper available at Crayolastore.com

This product was made for moms like me. I adore it. My children adore it. Best of all, it is affordable.

The beauty of this type of product is that you can let your child play with a ‘marker’ without having it end up all over your dining room table…their hands…arms…clothing… I am able to safely walk away to wash a few dishes without worrying that my 2 year old is drawing a beard on my 1 year old. The freedom is priceless. What amuses me the most about this particular mess-free product is the design on the paper. It makes me remember the black sheets of paper we had in elementary school. We were given sharp wooden sticks (wow…schools were practically handing out weapons in the 80’s!) to scratch off the designs and pictures we wanted. I can have my children experience something similar, but without a weapon that could literally poke an eye out.

As soon as I opened the package my 2 year old asked for the “moo-moo cow”. I then realized that she was asking for the drawing utensil, which has a cow design. Having an engaging picture, as simple as it might seem, was a very smart move on Crayola’s end. My daughter can verbalize with which Crayola product she wants to play.

Most adults today grew up using Crayola crayons. We are familiar with them for this reason, but they are so much more then just a crayon manufacturer. They make tools for imaginations, because the “power of creativity starts here”.

Love these products? Want to purchase them right away? Click the links below to order directly from Crayola, or just look for them at your local retailer that carries Crayola.

My First Crayola Egg Crayons

My First Busy Bag Art Kit

My First Crayola Mess-Free Marker and Paper

Don’t forget to follow Crayola too!

Facebook          Twitter          YouTube          Pinterest          Instagram 

“…creatively-alive kids blossom and grow to be inspired, original adults who, in turn, have the ability to inspire the world.”

ArrowsCorrected

 

 Now that you have seen how wonderful these products are head over to the giveaway!

(Runs 4/1/15 – 4/15/15; open to US)

 My First Giveaway Small

 


Mar
2015

The Mustard Man Giveaway

categories: Giveaway

The Mustard Man – a Giveaway

By now you have seen my posts featuring the wonderful mustard’s by The Mustard Man. The Mustard Man has kindly decided to offer my readers the chance to win a trio of their amazing mustard’s. One reader will win all three of their mustard flavor’s (one of each 3 delicious flavors), plus a set of recipe cards! Once you try this mustard, I personally guarantee that you will buy it again. It’s just that good. Head over to their website to see where the closest retail location you can purchase The Mustard Man mustard’s. You are also able to order on-line and have it shipped directly to you. Click here to order on-line now.

The Mustard Man 3 Pack Giveaway


Mar
2015

I Love Colore Giveaway

categories: Giveaway

 

I Love Colore Giveaway

Hosted by: Nonperfect Parenting
Sponsored by: Perfecto Gifts

Co-hosted by
Bubby’s Mommy, Mean Mommy Magic,
Stylish Momme, & Sweepstakes Diva

Prizes ~ 30 Winners In All

10 Winners will win a pack of 8 Colorè Colored Chalk Markers
10 Winners will win a pack a Colorè 26 Piece Sketch & Drawing Pencils Set
10 Winners will win a pack of of Colorè Brilliant White Liquid Chalk Markers – 2 Pack

Giveaway Terms

  • This giveaway will run from March 15th 10:00AM EST to April 5th at 11:59PM EST and is open to Continental US residents 18+ only.
  • The winner will be notified by e-mail and will have 48 hours to respond or forfeits the prize.
  • This giveaway is not associated with Facebook, Twitter, or any other social media.
  • All participating blogs are not responsible for prize fulfillment.
  • All entries are optional. Void where prohibited by law.
  • Comments Off on I Love Colore Giveaway

Mar
2015

St Patrick’s Day Sweet & “Simply Horsey” Corned Beef

categories: Mama's Recipes

St Patrick’s Day Sweet & “Simply Horsey” Corned Beef

This was the best corned beef my husband and I have ever eaten. That is saying a lot considering how many exclusive places in Ohio and Chicago we have gotten ‘famous’ corned beef from.

Ingredients:

  • Corned beef (with pickling spices; should be in with the beef)
  • 3 tablespoons of “Simply Horsey” Mustard
  • 1 tablespoon of honey
  • 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar
  • 2 large potatoes (peeled and cubed)
  • 2 large carrots (peeled and sliced) OR half a bag of baby carrots
  • 1 cabbage

1. Place corned beef and pickling spices in a crockpot with 2 cups of water.

1 m

2. Chop carrots, cabbage and potatoes.

2 m

3. Cook corned beef, alone, for 6-7 hours on low.

4. Add vegetables in the last 60-90 minutes of cooking time.

5. Remove the corned beef and place in a baking dish.

6. Mix the “Simply Horsey” mustard and honey.

3 m

7. Using a spoon or a brush, coat the top and sides of the corned beef.

4 m

8. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes.

9. Remove from oven and sprinkle the brown sugar on top. Bake for another 10 minutes.

5 m

10. Serve with vegetables. Enjoy!

6 m

7 m


Mar
2015

The Mustard Man – A Review

categories: Reviews

The Mustard Man

“You should do something with this!” Were the words that Tim, the owner and creator of The Mustard Man, would constantly hear. For years Tim would make his homemade mustard and bring it to social gatherings and family holidays. Everyone wanted to have some of his amazing creation. It all started with him making it for a tailgating event and once that ball started to roll there was no way to stop it, and we are so glad it didn’t!

The Mustard Man is an Ohio based company. They are currently available at upscale retailers such as: Heinen’s, West Point Market, Anderson’s, Buehler’s and many more. They are constantly gaining popularity and becoming available in more upscale retailers. You are also able to make purchases through their website (click here to order today). The Mustard Man ships anywhere across the US

The Mustard Man has 3 unique flavors which are so versatile that you can use them every day. Simply Horsey, Simply Peppered, and Simply Sweet are the current flavors The Mustard Man has available.

with tomato

Simply Horsey:

“A very smooth Horseradish taste that won’t make your eyes water but will tickle your palate. An Excellent addition to Roast Beef, Prime Rib, Corned Beef, Brats, Burgers, hard boiled eggs, and salads. Goes great with a Sharp Cheese and crackers.”

**I love this on tater tots

Simply Peppered:

“You must love ground black pepper. This mustard is a perfect match for your Grilled meats like Steaks, Chicken, Burgers, Brats. Simply Peppered goes great with roasted vegetables and is excellent in our “Potato Gratin” recipe.”

**I think this sauce would be perfect on a left over Easter ham sandwich.

Simply Sweet:

“A softer, creamier mustard that won’t offend the “Non-Mustard” friend or family member who attends the gathering.

This Mustard is definitely a great “Party Dip” for Chips, Cheese, Crackers, Burgers, Brats, Deli Sandwiches, Chicken Salad, Tuna Salad, Chicken Tenders, or Chicken Nuggets. You might think Deviled Eggs or Egg Salad.”

**I would pair this sweet potato fries.

tots mama
Tots go perfectly with “Simply Horsey”
 There are just so many options. Some tried and true recipes can be found here. Recipes like “Simply Horsey” Planked Salmon and “Simply Peppered” Gruyere Potato Gratin.
Using the “Simply Horsey” mustard I made my family favorite Mustard Chicken. This is one of my “having people over” dishes. You know, the one that is fun and sorta fancy but nothing too crazy that you might mess up. This is a scrumptious dish that everyone will talk about the next day. Click the link under the picture to see how to make it for yourself.
 "Simply Horsey" Mustard Chicken

“Simply Horsey” Mustard Chicken

 

Be sure to follow The Mustard Man for exciting recipes and new products!

Facebook           Twitter          Pinterest

Want to try The Mustard Man mustard before you buy it?

Click here to try to win a set for yourself!

{giveaway will run 3/17/15 through 3/31/15}


Mar
2015

Knife System Sharpener – Giveaway {hop}

categories: Giveaway

Knife System Sharpener & $5 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway!

{a giveaway hop}

Are you looking for an easy to use, home-cook/residential use knife sharpener? Here is your chance to win one! This System Sharpener brand knife sharpener is available through Amazon for purchase or you can enter below for a chance to win one PLUS a $5 Amazon gift card!

Knife System Sharpener & $5 Amazon GC Giveaway
 

Luck Of The Irish

 

Welcome to the Luck of the Irish Giveaway Hop, brought to you by The Hopping Bloggers & Up All Night Blogging!

 

Hosted by Mama Smith’s Review Blog & Women And Their Pretties

 

Co-Hosted by

 

DownshiftingPRO, Melanie Meditates, Feeling Fit, Bit by Bit, Enza’s Bargains, Golden State Mom , Deb Knows Best, Barbie’s Beauty Bits, & Ninas Bargain Beauty

Each blogger participating in this hop has a giveaway with a prize value of at least $15 – and some are much more than that! Be sure to scroll down the whole list and visit them all – there is no limit to how many prizes you can win! Good Luck and Have Fun!

DISCLOSURE: Mama Smith’s Review Blog and Women and Their Pretties are not responsible for any of the prize fulfillment. Each blogger is responsible for providing their sponsor with their winner’s contact information.


Mar
2015

“Simply Horsey” Mustard Chicken

categories: Mama's Recipes

“Simply Horsey” Mustard Chicken

This is a family favorite in the Fox Den. If you need a fun and unique dish then this is the perfect dish for you. Be sure to follow the directions properly to ensure delicious results.

Ingredients:

  • 6-8 boneless and skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup “Simply Horsey” Mustard
  • 2-3 tablespoons whole grain mustard (or a thick mustard with grains)
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (You need GOOD syrup. No fake Aunt stuff!)
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon corn starch
  • 2 or 3 springs of fresh rosemary

ingre mam

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Line an 8×8 glass baking dish with tin foil. It is important you cook using a small dish or you will loose the magic of the liquids. Be sure to line it with foil, this helps with heating it properly (and clean up).

3. Combine “Simply Horsey” mustard, grain mustard, syrup, vinegar and a tablespoon of rosemary. Mix well.

in bowl words

4. Coat the chicken in the sauce. Place the chicken in the dish and pour mixture on top of chicken.

raw mama

5. Bake, uncovered, for 40 minutes.

6. Remove chicken from dish and set aside. Take the liquid and pour into a small bowl. Add the 1 tablespoon of corn starch to the liquid and stir well. This will thicken the into a beautiful sauce.

sauce mama

7. Serve chicken with sauce and enjoy!

"Simply Horsey" Mustard Chicken
“Simply Horsey” Mustard Chicken

(Please comment below after you try it and tell me how much you love it!)


Mar
2015

Crystal Wash – Giveaway {hop}

categories: Giveaway
Crystal Wash 2.0

Crystal Wash – Giveaway

{Rainbow Giveaway Hop}

Are you ‘crunchy’? Do you look for ways to help reduce your carbon footprint? Use less chemicals? Keep your home free from dyes? Then Crystal Wash is right up your alley. Crystal Wash is the new way to wash your laundry, with out detergents! No mess, easy to use and free from all detergents, chemicals, dyes and perfumes. Sound too good to be true?

Read more about Crystal Wash spheres here.

Under the Rainbow Blog Hop

Welcome to the [3rd annual] Under the Rainbow Giveaway Hop Event, hosted by the Lindsey Blogs & Viva Veltoro.

Who doesn’t love finding gold under the rainbow? I’ve joined with a group of bloggers who will be offering great prizes for you, just waiting to be found under the rainbow! So, hop along to all in the giveaway hop linky below to find your gold! Don’t miss the Grand Prize too – if you have 1 or 2 children, you’ll find the gold under the rainbow in the form of an amazing Fold N Go Double Stroller from Combi USA! Enter the Grand Prize here.

Main Prize Pic

Crystal Wash 2.0


 

So Easy Being Green, Viva Veltoro, and the Under the Rainbow participating bloggers are not responsible for sponsors who do not fulfill prize obligations.