For the past few weeks, I’ve been checking out the Cook’n Recipe Organizer. Cook’n is a program that lets you organize your recipes into your own cookbook. You can input your own recipes or capture them from the internet, then export the entire collection out to where you need it. It also has a built-in menu planner, shipping list organizer and nutrition guide. The program only took a few minutes to install. It comes with one cookbook already setup with recipes, the DVO.com Cookbook. It has a great selection of recipes and I’, eager to try them out over the coming months. I decided to create my own cookbook and start capturing the recipes off the Internet that I frequently use. To create the cookbook, all you have to do is click the ‘New Cookbook’ icon, the green + sign, and then type in a name. You can add in chapters as you go. I separated mine out by cuisine type. You can also pick out a theme to decorate your pages. Capturing is also very easy. First, you ...
product reviews
Batgirl Costume Review & Giveaway [ENDED]
I'll change this one with a picture of Hannah once I get my camera charged back up A few weeks back, I was asked to pick out a Batman related costume to review from Costume Discounters. Costume Discounters offers all the latest costumes at discounted prices. They also have a wide variety of accessories, wigs and shoes that are available year-round. I decided to get the toddler Batgirl, a D.C. Comics character, costume for Hannah. It’s a one-size fits all, fitting sizes 2T through 4T. It comes with a mask, dress with removable cape, belt, arm bands, and shoe covers. I figured that she would enjoy wearing it for Halloween this year. The costume itself is made of a polyester/spandex mix that is very durable and has a big of stretch to it. The cape attaches by Velcro, while the belt is sewn onto the dress. It’s very well made and has so far stood up to Hannah tearing around the house while wearing it. The mask, which is Hannah’s favorite part, is plastic and attaches ...
Product Review – CanvasPop
A few weeks ago, I received a $40 gift certificate towards getting a print from CanvasPop. CanvasPop lets you create a canvas print using your own images. They have virtually unlimited size options and several image editing effects. The creation process is pretty simple and straight forward. You first pick where you are getting you’re image from (computer, Facebook, ect…), then pick the type of layout you. You then have the option of choose either a standard size or a custom size that you define. The next step is to choose your frame options. Just rolled canvas with no frame is free, while varying depths and frames range from $30 to $60. After picking your edge options (all free), you will be able to upload your image. You then have the option of adding an effect. They have options like comic book, oil painting and vintage. Black & White is free, while the others cost $10 to $30 extra. If you are handy with Photoshop, or any other photo editing software, you can ...
Product Review – Champion Me Books
A few weeks ago, I was invited to check out Champion Me Books. Champions Me lets you create personalized children's books with your child as the main character. They have several stories to choose from and you can receive your books in print, pdf, or e-book.I ended up doing all 4 books. When you first start, you pick out the book you want and then fill in the info about your child. You then use their app to create a likeness of your child, which is inserted into the books. The app lets you change the general appearance and clothing colors. My daughter had fun changing the hair styles. You can also add in a special message to your child as well.I had the books made into pdf files, so once I ordered I only had a wait a few minutes for them to be ready. I was able to download them onto the computer. My daughter absolutely loves them. The stores are cute and have great pictures. Her favorite was the Scribble Monster.Overall, Champion Me Books are a lot of fun for the whole ...
Book Review – Lightning-Fast Japanese
A few weeks ago, I received a copy of Lightning-Fast Japanese by Carolyn Woods. The book is a learner’s guide to teaching you’re children basic Japanese. Mrs. Woods covers the basics, including numbers, colors and everyday household objects. You work the words into everyday conversations so that your children pick them up. There are also word games that you can play as well.I have been teaching myself Japanese on and off for a few years now, and have picked up a little bit here and there…mostly by watching moves, anime and tv dramas in subtitles. The book is a great tool to help you learn, but I noticed that there are a few fundamental things missing from it. The first thing is that there isn’t an explanation or diagram of the alphabet. The alphabet is phonetic, meaning that the way something is the way that it sounds when you speak it. For example, “baka” means idiot or fool. The alphabet is “ba” (ば) and “ka” (か). There are also several parts to the alphabet as well: ...
Product Review – Massage Envy
Last week, I was treated to a free massage at Massage Envy. Massage Envy is the leader in affordable message and spa services. They offer various types of massages and facials that use Murad skin products. I’ve never had a professional massage before, so I was very excited to get the offer. I went to the Rockwall location since that was the closest one to my house. When I first arrived, I filled out a questionnaire asking if I had ever had a massage before and what type of massage I wanted. I then waited for my massage therapist to come and get me. The therapist took me to my room, and I undressed to the level I was comfortable with. We went over what type of massage I wanted, which was a deep tissue massage. I also mentioned my current knee issues and decided that have her stay away from that area. When she first started the massage, she told me to let her know if she was too rough. It was a little uncomfortable, so I had her lighten the pressure. Once she did that, I ...