Sep
2018

Calling All Gamers

categories: Reviews

In this house, we game.

My husband and I play board games all the time. We like them all. You name it, we’ve probably played it, or at least heard of it.

For awhile now we’ve been on the hunt for a new game. We just need something fresh.

 

 

We’re both so thrilled that we found a new one!

Chickapig is just what we were missing.

This new, fun game is perfect for anyone who loves to play games. It’s fun, so easy to learn, and can be strategic or not. It’s perfect for anyone, really.

Brian Calhoun is a custom guitar maker to country and rock legends in the music biz. He is the brains behind this new, great game. Brian joined forces with his buddy Dave Matthews in an effort to get his game to tables across the country.

Yes people, you read that right. Dave Matthews is one of the creators of this game.

Pretty cool.

 

The Design:

Chickapig is one of the prettiest designed games I’ve played. My favorite part of the game is the pieces.

 

 

They’re made of wood.

Literal, actual wood.

So cool.

The pieces are durable too; the thickness gives them a nice, hearty feel.

 

 

I like the design because it’s simple and farm – like. Wood pieces, simple art work, rustic color and style; it’s great. Just as their slogan states: A farm to table game.

 

Quick recommendation – read the directions throughly. My husband was in charge of reading, learning, then explaining to the rest of us. He failed. To give him the benefit of the doubt; there are a lot of small little rules where, if you have them slightly wrong, the game changes drastically. We were playing wrong here and there, but kept the directions close so we could check if we had a question.

 

The Play:

Check this video out for a quick guide on how to play.

 

 

So, you totally get it now, right?

You can take my word for it when I say this game is easy to learn.

 

 

See those green rectangles? Those are like goal posts; you’re trying to get your corresponding pigs (green, in this case) through the goal.

Similarly to chess you start across the board and move towards your goal. Just roll the die to see how many moves you have. Then get your Chickapig to the other side!

The catch though, the other players are trying to keep you out of your goal AND get their pigs through their goal.

 

 

The other catch – there’s a cow that can poop on the board.

Nobody likes poop, amirite?

The pooping cow causes a player to pick up a poop cards. Poop cards are bad; they force you to do something that will hinder your chances of winning.

Not cool.

 

Good news is you can get a flower card.

This card is super good and gives you a great advantage over the other opponents. When you roll a two you have the option to move two spaces OR take a flower card.

Always take the flower card. Trust me.

 

 

Not only is Chickapig easy to learn, it can be played quickly.

In about 15 minutes me and three others were playing the game and understanding it well. The first game took about 25 minutes. We started out a bit slow, as we were learning, then by the end we felt we had a pretty good hang of it.

 

 

I like the game because there is some offense and defense that needs to be played. Play too much offense and you give someone the upper hand, play too much defense and you’ll never win. They’re gotta be balance, I like that in a game.

I also really like how you can work together with your opponents to accomplish a task. Whether it be blocking someone, or making the cow poop; if you just play an individual game it’s pretty hard to win.

 

 

Do me a favor and give Chickapig a try. It really is a great game that will entertain you and give you a laugh. It’s easy, fun, and quick!

 

Check out Little Joe Chickapig too. An adorable, rhyming children’s book, written by Brian, that was just released!

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Sep
2018

My New Groove Life

categories: Article

I still remember the day my husband proposed! I climbed the stairs to the top of the climbing tower at the camp we worked at in Michigan. With a big smile, my husband opened a tiny little box and inside was my grandmother’s diamond set in a ring of twisting silver and sparkle. The blushing bride that I was, I didn’t want to ever take it off. However, it was by far the most expensive thing we owned and my job involved sports, swimming, rock climbing, and all other crazy things you do at summer camp. The whole summer I battled between keeping my precious ring safe and showing everyone I was engaged.

I wish I would have had an alternative.

During our first year of marriage my husband finished up his senior year and football career. Almost the whole season I wore his wedding ring around my neck to keep it safe. With practices everyday and games every weekend, he had his ring off more than he had it on. I don’t know about you, but I wanted everyone on campus to know that buff linebacker was my man, but it just want’t practical.

I wish he would have had an alternative.

Two years later, my husband and I were working overseas. Most of our time was spent working in a private school, but when we did have a holiday we made use of our time. We traveled to different countries, hiked Asia’s national parks, cared for orphans, did construction, ran youth camps, and so much more. Almost every trip I left my ring at home fearing it would get lost, stolen, or broken. We weren’t exactly taking CHARTER FLIGHTS BETWEEN TOLUCA AND HOUSTON, or wherever we went (although we would have loved it!), so safety was a top priority. Besides that, the humidity in Asia got trapped under my ring and caused an infection. During our last year in China I kept my ring in the box.

I wish I would have had an alternative.

Recently my husband got super into Crossfit and no longer was the size of the linebacker I married. His wedding band didn’t fit. When we discussed replacing it we just couldn’t find a good solution. He didn’t want anything expensive because he took it off for workouts and rec sports. However, he wanted to wear something…and tattooing a ring wasn’t an option. His alternative was wearing an old silver thumb ring I had in high school. We often chuckled about it but knew if it got lost there would be no tears.

I could go on with a list of reasons why my husband and I have had to find a portable lint remover and a reason to take our rings off. But the bottom line was, we needed an alternative.

I needed a ring to wear when I feared for the life of my family heirloom.

My husband needed a new ring, and preferably one that he didn’t need to take on and off.

That’s when we heard about silicone rings!

Switching to Silicone Rings

Switching to silicone rings could be a life switch or a daily switch.

For me it is a daily switch. I wear my metal rings the majority of the time; running through life’s mundane schedule.

Basically I slip on my silicone ring for any occasion I use to take my rings off. I make the switch when I take the kids to the pool, workout, cook, paint, travel overseas, or engage in any messy or hands-on activities.

My favorite part about wearing a silicone ring is the ability to clean it quickly. My metal ring use to get caked with cooking ingredients and resulted in me using a toothpick to clean out each tiny pore.

I love that even if I forget about switching back to my metal ring, I am still wearing a wedding band that is stylish and meaningful.

For my husband it was a life switch. He needed a new ring that fit his lifestyle. He needed a ring he didn’t have to think about!

He can comfortably workout, do yard work, travel, and even swim with his new ring.

For both of us, silicone rings proved to be a wonderful alternative for our different needs.

Our silicone rings are:

  • Flexible: Silicone moves with our fingers and don’t risk injury with impact.
  • Comfortable: Silicone is light and squishy and has no friction between fingers.
  • Affordable: Silicone is cheap, no tears are shed over an irreplaceable heirloom.

BUT WAIT! Before you go buy the cheapest pack of silicone rings on Amazon, you must know

Not all silicone rings are created equal!

When we made the switch we wanted to do it right. After some research and a YouTube commercial we were hooked on Groove Life!

Meet Groove Life!

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Alaskan guide and wilderness lodge owner, Peter Goodwin ran into a predicament a few years back. While he wanted to show his commitment and love for his wonderful family, he needed to stay safe with his demanding and active job. A metal wedding band wasn’t going to cut it.

That’s when Peter decided to design an alternative. He started with functionality by incorporating breathable grooves that would lock out moisture and enhance air flow.

Then in 2016, Peter launched Groove Life! He perfected silicone rings by making them not only safe for work and play, but also breathable and durable!

“I created Groove Life to represent what I value most in life. Functionality, quality, and a commitment to put people above profit.” Peter states on his website.

Why Groove Life

Peter is passionate about putting people above profit with Groove Life rings.

The biggest problem with silicone rings is they tend to hold in smells and moisture. So the awesome plan you had to workout, fish, cook, and sweat in your ring is ruined because in a few short months your ring reeks. Groove Life is different because it is designed with patented breathable grooves. The grooves keep fresh air circulating and bad odors from bring trapped. Meaning you keep your ring longer!

My husband can comfortably do yard work without metal digging into his skin.

Sweaty workouts and sports are handled with the air grooves allowing circulation, keeping our rings and hands fresh and damage free.

Groove Life stays on securely while swimming laps and probably dries quicker than your swimsuit.

My ring has stayed reek free even after enduring recipes with raw chicken, peanut butter, red sauce, and more.

Grove Life gives us confidence to play, swim, and live the lifestyle we choose worry free.

Warranty

One of the best parts of Groove life is their dedication to customers! They have a strict no BS warranty!

If your ring gets damaged, cut, stretched, or encounters some unique death Groove Life will replace it! I find that pretty impressive for a ring that is meant to endure active lifestyles and extreme sports.

 

Choosing your Ring

Besides the basic solid rings, Groove Life has 7 different collections that appeal to patriates all the way to care free bohemians.

I love the look of the Groove Aspire. The print is exceptional and vibrant! My Bohemian ring resembles beautiful stone and has a simple and classy appearance.

They also provide the ability to customize your ring. As a mother I love the idea of having a ring with my kid’s initials, birthday years, or even one ring per kid with their names engraved. The options are almost unlimited and such a wonderful gift idea.

My husband and I chose to personalize our rings with our wedding date. I loved that we had the option to choose our style, font, and color. For active couples I could definitely see GrooveLife’s wedding collection as the go to pick for their special day.

Groove Life sizing is made easy with a number of different tests and videos to get the right results. Groove Ring insists you measure your finger even if you know your ring size, due to silicone rings fitting differently than a metal ring.

My husband and I printed the paper test and completed all three tests to find our ring size. I measured almost consistently as an 7.5-8 while my husband seemed to be all over the place. Groove Ring suggests you go with the smaller size because silicone is meant to fit tighter. I let my nerves get the best of me and we ordered an 8 and a 10.

Groove life was right and I for sure should have ordered down for both of us. I don’t love things being snug so I am pretty satisfied with the fit, but now I have just the slightest worry my ring might fall off in a pool. My husband’s is wiggly and he will most likely get a new size.

Groove Life does states that if your ring doesn’t fit correctly after receiving it they will replace it for free within the first month of purchasing.

You also can exchange your Groove Ring for a new color within the first two weeks of purchase.

If you are undecided about color and size Groove Life offers a Try 5 option! Just simply pick five rings; color, size and style, that you want to test out. Try on your rings at home and choose your new favorite ring(s). Keep your wants and return the others for Free!

Overall, I would have to highly recommend Groove Life! I think they are one of the leading brands in silicone rings and have a passionate and reliable team backing them up. Groove Life is dedicated to bringing functionality and fashion to a universal consumer. These rings are not only perfect for the extreme lifestyle but also for the messy mama, dedicated nurse, workout jock, hands-on worker, and any other daily obstacle!


Sep
2018

Mom Shopping List – What to Buy Before the Baby Arrives

categories: Article

Image Source: Pixabay

As an expectant parent, you will be surely surprised how much stuff a human the size of a fat rabbit needs. The items, from clothes, pacifiers, diapers to blankets, toys, milk bottles can make even veteran parents feel overwhelmed. How quickly you can pass the hours in a baby shop! But do not worry! Stocking up before your new family member is not as hard as it seems. Although it might be tempting to delay it as much as possible (are there still people out there who hate shopping?), it is best to prepare yourself so you do not get caught empty-handed. This article will help you figure out what to buy for the baby. Here are the things you need to buy before the baby arrives.

Nursery

The first thing that many parents do after finding out the baby is due is preparing the nursery because as much as you enjoy spending time with the kid, everybody needs some alone time. Preparing the nursery is not an exact science, and it all comes down to how much time you are planning to spend. For moms who are breastfeeding, a glider chair with ottomans is ideal because they support long hours of sitting. As for the other items you need for the nursery:

  • A crib and a mattress and bedding for it.
  • A diaper changing table with straps to prevent the baby from falling over
  • A diaper pail
  • A mattress pad, preferably waterproof
  • Laundry bag
  • A toy bin

Outdoors Basics

As for preparing yourself for the time when you will take the baby outside, you will need two important things. First, a stroller with an umbrella. Secondly, they have an ergonomic, foldable design, which will make both your and your baby’s life much easier. You could also invest in a travel bed as it would work like a crib while travelling. You could check sites like https://www.safebabymonitor.com/ for the same.

Other items that you should include in your baby traveling gear are the following:

  • Diaper and wipes case
  • Baby carrier for indoor spaces where strollers are not ideal
  • Diaper bag

Another area where you will need to make several adjustments is the car. Mainly, you will have to buy a reliable car seat, at least a month before the due date for the baby. But do not just buy the first one that you see online – make sure it has been federally approved and that it respects all the safety standards regarding design and construction.

Furthermore, if you can’t figure out how to install the car seat properly, there are many businesses that provide this exact service. And improperly installed baby seat is a safety hazard, not to mention a slight annoyance – just imagine finally walking out of the hospital with your baby only to realize that the car seat is decentered.

Pack a Hospital Bag

Most expecting couples will be told to prepare a hospital bag once the pregnancy hits the 36th-week mark, because the baby could technically arrive at any time from that point forward. Many couples may pack some basic items such as pajamas, a few toiletry products, some extra clothing and nothing much else, which is a really bad idea for several reasons.

When you are in hospital, you will realize that the basic necessities that you have taken for granted for the majority of your life are exactly the things that you miss most because you did not think to pack them. We are talking about things like your favorite soap, a book, a phone charger (Yikes!), wet napkins (you will be sweating a lot), a crossword puzzle (you will get bored with your smartphone sooner rather than later), and generally stuff that will make your stay in the hospital more bearable.

Clothing Items

Once the baby gets out of the hospital, you will want to have several clothing items waiting for you at home because trust us, you will not feel like going on any supply runs during those first few days. These are the basics that a baby needs – although, let us be honest, you will not be able to resist buying more than what is required:

  • A baby swimsuit, assuming you gave birth during the summer
  • Out of the hospital clothes – you do not want to get out of the hospital with the baby wrapped in a towel.
  • A sun hat and a warm winter hat
  • Winter coat
  • Shoes

General Baby Care

Sadly, that soothing baby smell will not last for long – you will be surprised how messy babies can get. So, it is a good idea to buy some general baby care products that will last you for those few first days until you figure out what else you might need:

  • A baby monitor with good features
  • Baby formula
  • Baby shampoo and a body wash
  • A baby bathtub (assuming you do not like the idea of bathing the kid in an adult-sized tub)
  • Baby nail clippers
  • Hooded baby towels
  • Thermometer
  • Nasal aspirator
  • Infant-safe sunscreen

Feeding the Baby

Last but not least, before the baby arrives, you will have to decide whether you will breastfeed or bottle feed. Regardless of your choice in this matter, these items cater to both scenarios:

  • Bottles
  • Baby formula
  • Breast pads
  • Burp cloths and clothes (I think we do not need to explain this)
  • Bottle and pacifier sterilizer
  • Bottlebrush
  • Breast pump
  • Lanolin cream
  • A drying rack for bottles
  • Support pillow for breastfeeding

 

The list of items that a baby needs can intimidate even veteran parents, but as long as you put a little thought into it, nothing can really go wrong. Make sure to read through our list and you will learn how to get everything that you need for that special day.

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Sep
2018

Momzelle Giveaway

categories: Giveaway

Enter to win a $30 shop credit* to Momzelle.

*Credit for $30 Canadian Currency.
#SupportWorldwideBusinesses

—–

Hosted by: MamatheFox

Sponsored by: Momzelle

Open to: US and Canada 18+

Hop along to each blog for your chance to win awesome prizes!
Don’t forget to come back daily for bonus entries.

Click on each blog title below to enter another great giveaway!

 

 

MamatheFox and all participating blogs are not held responsible for sponsors who fail to fulfill their prize obligations.

 

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Aug
2018

1st Day of School Giveaway

categories: Giveaway

 

Soon our kids are heading back to school (woohoo!!) but in the meanwhile, we need to spice up their education by engaging them in fun activities at home that will kick start them back into school mode.

MamatheFox teamed up with some amazing brands who want to offer you the chance to win some of their products! Come back daily to increase your chances of winning this amazing giveaway.

 

Open to US residents only    –    Over $145 in prizes

 

Hosted by: MamatheFox

Co-Hosted by: Reviewz and Newz, Parenting Healthy, Miki’s Hope, Tabby’s Pantry  & Sunshine and Roller Coasters

 

One person will win:

  • Thames and Kosmos  – I Dig It! Dinos – T. Rex Excavation Kit – RV $12.95
    • Play the role of a paleontologist and excavate a replica of a dinosaur fossil relief all by yourself. Use the hammer and chisel to go on a hunt for Tyrannosaurus rex, the dangerous prehistoric giant. Excavate the skeleton relief from the surrounding soft plaster block. The kit includes the skeleton relief buried in a plaster block, excavation tools, and a descriptive manual.

  • My Gnome on the Roam –  RV $29.97
    • What if one little gnome and one tiny suitcase could change your family? My Gnome on the Roam ® is more than just a children’s book and adventure kit, it’s a suitcase full of memories waiting to be unpacked. It’s an invitation to explore, create and connect with your family. It’s a glitter and glue covered revolution and a toy and book with a mission…designed to help create stronger, happier kids, and more present and connected adults.

  • Catch and Learn by PlaSmart – RV $9.99
    • The Catch and Learn by PlaSmart is now available on Amazon. The educational game where you fish for answers. The learning possibilities are endless. Comes with retractable magnetic fish catcher, 10 dry-erase fish cards and marker. Teaches math, spelling, grammar, shapes, and colors. Learn by playing described games, or invent your own. Just press the button to retract the worm and reel in your answers. Helps develop fine motor skills. Promotes confidence and self-esteem. Two or more players; one can be a teacher or parent. Age 4+ years. Meets all ASTM, CPSC, and EN71 safety standards

 

 

  • Mr Bucket by Pressman Toys – RV $21.99
    • Mr. Bucket is the original moving chasing racing action game.
    • Get ready for buckets of fun with Mr. Bucket by Pressman Toy! Scoop up the balls that match your colored shovel and drop the balls into Mr. Bucket as he whirls and spins around the floor. Watch out – Mr. Bucket will try to block your ball with his hands and will even spit the balls right back out of his mouth onto the floor, creating tons of laughter and fun! Get all three of your colored balls inside Mr. Bucket first to win! Made with high quality materials, Mr. Bucket is the original moving chasing racing action game and will have kids up and moving around. Can you scoop up all your color balls and place them back into Mr. Bucket before he pops them out again? For 2 to 4 players, ages 3 and up.

  • Pop The Pig Game by Goliath Games – RV $24.99
    • Pop the Pig was the top-selling preschool game in 2016 and 2017 according to retailer sales data collected by NPD!
    • Players take turns rolling the die, feeding the pig, and pushing down on his head. Each pump makes his belly grow bigger, bigger, and bigger until… POP!

 

  • Personalized Book from Snowflake Stories (choice of either The Big Soccer Game or Dance Recital . – RV$45
    • Not your average personalized children’s book!
      * Select your entire cast of characters:
      1 special child + (up to) 5 loved ones
      * Customize the appearance of each character:
      Choose skin color, hairstyle, hair color and more
      * Add 1-2 of 5 languages:
      English, Spanish, Portuguese, French & Italian

 

 

 

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Aug
2018

Mommy’s Touch Teething Necklace Giveaway

categories: Giveaway

Sponsored By: Mommy’s Touch

Hosted By: Love, Mrs. Mommy

3 Winners Will Receive A Mommy’s Touch Silicone Necklace Prize!

 

Grand Prize:

Winner will receive all the following silicone necklaces:
Black Shark Tooth
White Shark Tooth
Hawaiian Fish Hook
White Fish Hook
A $62.96 RV Prize Pack!

First Runner-up:

Winner’s Choice of 2 silicone necklaces from the following options:
1 – Shark Tooth Necklace (Black Shark Tooth or White Shark Tooth)
1 – Fish Hook Necklace (Hawaiian Fish Hook or White Fish Hook)
Up to a $31.98 RV!

Second Runner-up:

Winner’s Choice of 1 silicone necklace from the following options:
Black Shark Tooth / White Shark Tooth / Hawaiian Fish Hook / White Fish Hook
Up to a $15.99 RV!
Open To US entries and must be 18+ to enter

Giveaway Dates ~ 8/27 9:00 AM EST through 9/24 11:59PM EST

Disclosure: Love, Mrs. Mommy and all participating bloggers are not held responsible for sponsors who do not fulfill their prize obligations. This giveaway is in no way endorsed or sponsored by Facebook or any other social media site. The winners will be randomly drawn by Giveaway Tools and will be notified by email. Winners have 48 hours to reply before a replacement winner will be drawn. If you would like to participate in an event like this please contact LoveMrsMommy (at) gmail (dot) com.
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Aug
2018

Be a Savi Mom

categories: Reviews

Coming across cute, affordable pregnancy and nursing apparel is a pretty difficult task.

I literally gave up when I was pregnant with my first. I just scraped by, using clothing that could pass as nursing apparel, or making my own.

We live on a budget, so buying clothes isn’t a number one priority.

That’s why I love the Savi Mom clothing line.

You can wear these clothes at all times in your life – pregnancy, postpartum, nursing, and beyond! Also, if you’re pregnant and looking for more than just clothing: I highly recommend HMHB’s guide on finding a crib mattress.

The co-founders of Savi Mom are two moms – just like you and me. Savi Mom was created to help new moms find what they need and want. The versatility of their clothing is perfect for changing bodies.

Free shipping on all US orders makes purchasing from them even more enticing.

Believe me, the Savi mom clothing line is one you’re going to want to check out. Keep reading to find out more!!

Connect with Savi Mom

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Newport T-Shirt

The Newport top is a great shirt for everyday life. The fabric is super soft and feels amazing on the skin. Adorable and flattering, the cuff sleeves give the shirt a unique look. Making it not quite a tank top, you can wear it in any season. Pair it with a cute cardigan, or thrown on a fun pair of shorts, this top versatile!

Nursing is easy to come by in this top with the pleated front. Easy access for baby just takes a simple pull of the fabric.

One feature I like that I didn’t think I would is the pockets. The two small pockets in the front of the shirt do weigh it down a bit, which isn’t great. But the upside is that they’re actually usable. It’s like a dress with pockets – we all love them, right? They are located in the perfect spot and they are easy slip your hands into.

A down side I found when wearing this shirt is that the pleats on the front, that create the nursing panel, really add a lot to my chest. I feel like my chest is really large when wearing this top. I don’t have a large chest to begin with, so it’s not a huge deal to, but for someone with a larger chest size, I could see this causing some trouble.

You really can nurse discretely while wearing this shirt, which is a huge reason I love it so much. Easy access is something that all nursing moms want, ant this shirt meets that need. The fabric is super soft, and the flow of the front panel creates a great look for any mama.

Be sure to check out the Newport T-shirt. It won’t disappoint!

Aspen Yoga Hoodie

This super cute hooded tunic is perfect for any time of the year. The soft, stretchy jersey fabric is seriously so comfy; you’ll never want to take it off. The long body of this top makes it really versatile. Wear it athletically, casually, or throw on a pair of leggings and rock it.

Long sleeves with thumbhole cuffs really top off the shirt. I love that the sleeves are long, it gives me more of a cozy feel.. I love pulling my hands in my sleeves. This is great for chilly morning walks, or even working out.

The best part, though is the extra fabric and tight stitching. With many of my tops, the thumbhole stretches out and becomes uncomfortable. I have confidence that these thumbholes, and the extra cuff that covers my hand, will last.

I’m a huge fan of hoods on my sweatshirts. Don’t get me wrong, I love my crew necks; but hooded, baggy sweatshirts are just the best. This yoga hoodie is no different. The weight of the hood creates the perfect pull to keep the shirt in the right spot on my neck. This is actually a big deal for me because I don’t like my tops too low on my chest, but I also don’t like them hanging back and nearly choking me. It sits in the perfect spot. The downside to the hood is that it’s not very usable. It’s pretty small and isn’t really functional.

Access to nursing is easy too. The front panel is large and baggy which gives the cute look, but also allows quick access when needing it. Not only is this front panel flowy – which I love – the pleats create such a perfect look. It’s great for pregnancy because it stretches with your belly, but it’s especially great for your postpartum body. It really hides anything you may want hidden – like some left over belly after baby makes their debut.

Pregnant, postpartum, or nursing, this yoga hoodie is a great addition to your wardrobe. My sister-in-law, who doesn’t have any kids (yet), told me she wants the top. So seriously mama’s, it’s totally worth it. You will for sure wear this in all walks of life.

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