Chuggington's Brewster Leads The Way DVD Review and Giveaway

Disclosure:  We received a free copy of the DVD to facilitate our honest review.  No monetary compensation was received.  All opinions stated are those of the Shelly's Bits and Pieces family.

Ever since Little Man saw his first episode of Chuggington, the cartoon has been one of his favorites. He always looks forward to special occasions when he gets a new Chuggington DVD as a gift.  Since we do not have a DVR, this is how he gets to see Chuggington!  This time, he didn't have to wait for a special occasion.  We were offered the chance to review the new Chuggington adventure, Brewster Leads the Way, and we gladly accepted it!

About the DVD:  “Brewster Leads The Way” is an irresistible collection of episodes that seamlessly blend non-stop fun and valuable lessons for preschool audiences. Brewster, together with his best friends Wilson and Koko – plus new chuggineers Zack, Tyne and Fletch – helps gently guide viewers in learning to “ride the rails of life.”

Throughout this newest assortment of energetic adventures, Brewster takes the lead! In the title episode, Brewster must oversee the transporting of a heavy load with the assistance of the mighty Chuggers. But, when the Chuggers get called away or breakdown, it’s up to Brewster to move “full-steam ahead” and get the job done! And, in “Track Laying Brewster,” when a flash flood causes Rocky Ridge River to overflow, Brewster’s track-laying abilities are put to the test. He has to save Zack, Tyne and Fletch by helping them get their wheels above water – and fast!

Additional Episodes on the DVD:
“Babysitter Brewster”
“Brewster Meets The Mayor”
“Poor Old Puffer Pete”
“Old Puffer Pete’s Firebox”
“Brewster’s Carwash” (a bonus Badge Quest adventure)

The title also contains a Chugger Spotlight segment with a special character montage that centers on Brewster, along with an original Chug Patrol: Ready to Rescue music video, and coloring and activity pages, too!

Little Man loved the DVD and has probably watched the entire thing 10 times since it arrived!  My little Chugger gives Brewster Leads the Way his seal of approval.  Want to win a copy for the Little Chugger in your life?  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below!

Dial Vitamin Boost Body Wash Review and Giveaway

Disclosure: I received a free product to facilitate my honest review during a promotion with Purex Insiders. No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are those of the Shelly's Bits and Pieces family.

My daughter and I are alike in a lot of ways. One way we are alike is in our love of a leisurely shower. No shower is complete to either of us without a good body wash. I have preferred using body washes for years. There is no worry about cross contamination by sharing the same bar of soap with others, and I just feel cleaner with the body wash.

When my sample of Dial Vitamin Boost body wash arrived, the first thing I noticed was the wonderful kiwi scent.  The scent is refreshing and it is not an overpowering smell.  When I used the body wash, I noticed that my skin felt softer and more moisturized.  That is because Dial Vitamin Boost Body Wash gives your skin a daily boost of vitamins. The advanced formula contains a moisturizing Vitamin Complex, which helps draw moisture directly to your skin leaving your skin feeling healthy and soft.  My winter skin felt better.  I was a lot less itchy!  Kat tried it too, and now the biggest problem I have is making sure the Dial Vitamin Boost body wash is in MY shower when I need it!

Want to try it for yourself?  Two lucky Shelly's Bits and Pieces winners will receive a coupon for a FREE bottle of Dial Vitamin Boost Body Wash!  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below!

Tickety Toc The Unstoppable Unpoppable Bubble DVD Review and Giveaway

Disclosure: Anchor Bay Entertainment is sponsoring this giveaway and provided us with a DVD to facilitate our honest review.  All opinions are those of the Shelly's Bits and Pieces family.  No monetary compensation was received!

Do your preschoolers enjoy watching Tickety Toc on Nick Jr?  All the little ones in my life enjoy the adventures that are waiting, just behind the face of the Tickety Toc Clock!  Never seen the show?  Here is a little about it!

Tickety Toc clock is a portal into a fast-paced, dramatic and colorful CGI world full of wonderfully odd characters and slapstick surprises. It's a magical and hilarious place inhabited by puppy-dog trains, hare-brained rabbits, cooking cows, and weather-obsessed chickens. In the eye of this chaotic comedy storm are our two heroes--the twins Tommy and Tallulah. As they race against time to keep the clock ticking and chime in the time.

When we were sent The Unstoppable Unpoppable Bubble to review, I knew everyone would love it! 

In The Unstoppable, Unpoppable Bubble, our comedic heroes Tommy and Tallulah test McCoggins new unpoppable bubble formula! But soon an unpoppable bubble becomes so large it engulfs the whole town! Will the town be rescued from the extra-large and extra-strong bubble? Will Tommy & Tallulah make it out of the bubble in time to chime? In this and 5 other exciting adventures, the Tickety Town team, along with your own preschoolers, will learn the importance of teamwork, community and social responsibility.

The kids wanted to make their own bubble, so we settled on blowing bubbles on the back deck.  Tommy and Tallulah are fun characters to follow and my little ones enjoy all of their adventure!  They always make it back in time to chime!  

Would your preschoolers enjoy this movie?  You can win a copy by entering on the rafflecopter form below.  

The Best Man Holiday Review

Disclosure: We received a complimentary copy of the DVD to facilitate our honest review. All thoughts and opinions are those of the Shelly's Bits and Pieces family. No monetary compensation was received.

Chefy and I were thrilled when we were sent The Best Man Holiday to review. We had heard so many great things about it, and with the awesome cast, we couldn't wait. Thanks to the snow we got last week, we had some time to watch the movie in peace. We were not disappointed.

About the movie:  Share the laughter, love, and surprises as Harper (Taye Diggs), Lance (Morris Chestnut), Quentin (Terrence Howard), Jordan (Nia Long), Robyn (Sanaa Lathan), Mia (Monica Calhoun), Murch (Harold Perrineau), Candy (Regina Hall) and Shelby (Melissa De Sousa) all reunite for the first time in years. When the college friends get together, they soon discover how easy it is to reignite long-forgotten rivalries and romances, all while new discoveries are made and secrets are revealed. The Best Man Holiday is the comedy that critics are calling “a feel-good celebration.” (James Verniere, Boston Herald)

Bonus Features Exclusively on Blu-rayTM  
Alternate Ending
Deleted and Extended Scenes with Commentary by Writer/Director/Producer Malcolm D. Lee
Smack Talk: Filming The Girl Fight Scene—Step into the ring to learn how the big fight scene was filmed. Hear from stars Regina Hall and Melissa De Sousa and writer/director/producer Malcolm D. Lee.
Bonus Features on Blu-rayTM and DVD
Gag Reel
Holiday Reunion: The Making of The Best Man Holiday—Join the cast and crew of the of The Best Man Holiday to find out how the characters, and the actors who play them, have evolved in the 14 years since the first film and what it’s like for them to be working together again, as well as how “new kid on the block” Eddie Cibrian fits in, and what writer and director Malcolm D. Lee brings to the franchise. 
Feature Commentary By Writer/Director/Producer Malcolm D. Lee

RUN TIME: 2 Hours 4 Minutes

The movie carries you on a moving and emotional journey as these friends find their way through a time in their lives when they all need each other, and really do not realize it.  Each of the friends brings their own baggage into the situation, and when you add in the wives, things get kicked up a notch.  Parts of this movie had me laughing and in another part, I was crying.  One thing we really liked about this movie was that it had a deep storyline, not a lot of fluff.  You really felt for the characters.  Chefy and I discussed the movie with friends and I think Chefy summed it up the best.  This movie showed that everyone has problems, no matter how perfect their lives seem to be.  Everyone needs somebody.  Forgive and live!

I was so excited that Chefy loved The Best Man Holiday as much as I did.  We loved it so much that we plan to view The Best Man, which was produced in 1999.  If that movie is half as good as this one, I know we'll be happy!

Have you seen The Best Man Holiday?  What are your thoughts?  I'd love for you to share them with me!

Toopy and Binoo Animated Series for Preschoolers Review

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post.  I received Toopy and Binoo products in exchange for a post about the show. All thoughts and opinions are honest and are those of the Shelly's Bits and Pieces family.

Never heard of Toopy and Binoo?  Toopy and Binoo™ is an animated series that follows the adventures of Toopy, a tall, funny and friendly mouse, and his best friend Binoo, a tiny, clever and lovable white cat. Toopy is talkative and loves to chat about the duo’s fun adventures.  Binoo is thoughtful and keeps his lips zipped. He gets his point across with playful gestures and actions.  Little ones and their families laugh out loud as the charming and endearing friends explore their colorful, whimsical world. Binoo, always logical and perceptive, is the perfect sidekick for Toopy and his vivid imagination and spontaneous zest for life.

Toopy and Binoo is already a huge hit TV series for preschoolers in Canada, and no it is now available for the first time ever to US audiences exclusively on the Toopy and Binoo TV YouTube channel.  The Toopy and Binoo TV YouTube channel features more than 100 full, five-minute episodes, each with laughs and stories the whole family will enjoy.  

Toopy and Binoo inspires preschoolers ages 2 to 6 to expand their creativity.  It reinforces positive values such as friendship, good manners, creative thinking, and humor.  Toopy and Binoo teaches children daily skills and encourages them to use their imaginations in a fun, age-appropriate way.  This is something your entire family can enjoy together!  

The preschoolers in my family have really enjoyed watching the episodes on the youtube channel.  The 5 minute length of these episodes are perfect for kids with shorter attention spans.  We have found them to be great for anytime we are waiting at a doctor's office, pharmacy, or even waiting for dinner at home.  

Want to learn a little more about Toopy and Binoo?  You can follow them on twitter at https://twitter.com/ToopyandBinooTV or you can like them on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ToopyAndBinoo.

Twitter Party:  Please join the #ToopyandBinoo Twitter Party at 1:00 PM on Thursday, February 20th, hosted by @ResourcefulMom.  You will be eligible to win some wonderful prizes and learn more about the show! Follow #ToopyandBinoo to participate.  You can RSVP here: http://resourcefulmommy.com/13577/toopy-and-binoo-twitter-party/

Baggage Claim Blu-Ray/DVD Combo Pack Giveaway

Disclosure:  We received a free DVD to facilitate our honest review.  No monetary compensation was received.  Sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment.  All opinions stated are those of the Shelly's Bits and Pieces family.

If you had a chance to read my review of Baggage Claim, you already know that Chefy and I really enjoyed it.  For anyone who has not read the review, I'll give you a synopsis of the movie!

Paula Patton leads a hilarious cast in this first-class comedy that’ll keep you laughing and make your heart soar! Flight attendant Montana Moore (Patton) is smart, sexy and sick of being single. She’s determined to get engaged before her younger sister’s wedding, leaving just 30 days to make her connection. Fortunately, her co-worker crew has cooked up a high-flying scheme for Montana to “accidentally” bump into all her ex-boyfriends, leading to hilarious encounters as she attempts to land the perfect guy!

Blu-Ray & DVD Special Features
Behind the scenes with the Director with optional commentary by David E. Talbert
Promotional Featurettes: Fly Girl, Wing Men, The Story, Interview with the cast 
Audio Commentary with David E. Talbert
Theatrical Trailer

Are you looking for Mr. or Ms. Right?  Here are a few compliments to grab his/her attention:

Notice a Small or Non-flashy Piece of Jewelry
One quick way to impress someone new is to pick an item in their clothing or jewelry that is not screaming for attention. A quirky pair of cuff links, a simple necklace, any antique looking pieces or a well-traveled work bag are all possible great story starters. People choose these small items often more for sentimental reasons and not flash.  These items are more about who they are and less about what they have. Noticing the small things shows that you are taking the person in and really interested in getting to know them.

Little Known Fact about Company or Alma Mater
In this age of the search engine you should always know a bit about your date before you get there.  You wouldn't go on a job interview without researching the company. So, why would you go on a date without knowing a few of the basics on your date?  Look up the company, hometown or school of your date and find a little known fact to add to the conversation. Knowing that his hometown is the birthplace of the Snuggie is funny and will definitely stay on his mind long after the kiss good night.

Point Out Grace, Class, Manners & Chivalry
Who doesn't want to feel that they are extremely classy or chivalrous?  As much as we talk about the sexes being equal, there is still a strong draw to those that are able to be incredibly modern and still be on their old school manner game.  Point out little fine points that will make your date feel like they are the ultimate lady or gentlemen. Good manners still go a long way.

Tips are from LaDawn Black.  She is a relationship expert, media personality and the author of Let's Get It On: 15 Hot Tips and Tricks to Spice Up Your Sex Life

For more, visit www.ladawnblack.com

     ~~~GIVEAWAY~~~

You can win a copy of Baggage Claim by entering on the simple Rafflecopter form below.

Baggage Claim DVD Review

Disclosure:  We received a free copy of the DVD to facilitate our honest review.  No monetary compensation was received.  All opinions are those of the Shelly's Bits and Pieces family.  

Chefy and I really enjoy our special movie nights at home.  Our problem is that we have them so infrequently.  Thanks to a burst of winter that provided us with a foot of snow last week, we finally were able to have a movie night.  After hearing some wonderful comments about Baggage Claim, we decided to give it a view.  We are very happy we did.

About the movie:  Paula Patton leads a hilarious cast in this first-class comedy that’ll keep you laughing and make your heart soar! Flight attendant Montana Moore (Patton) is smart, sexy and sick of being single. She’s determined to get engaged before her younger sister’s wedding, leaving just 30 days to make her connection. Fortunately, her co-worker crew has cooked up a high-flying scheme for Montana to “accidentally” bump into all her ex-boyfriends, leading to hilarious encounters as she attempts to land the perfect guy!

Our thoughts:   We really enjoyed the movie.  The cast is wonderful.  Anyone who has ever been a bridesmaid more than once can completely understand where Montana is coming from.  It can be very hard when you really want to find Mr. Right, and he is no where to be found.  Montana's mother is very pushy, and I felt so bad for Montana when her younger sister announced she was getting married.  When Montana tells her co-worker(friends), Gail and Sam about her sister's engagement and that she is upset, they come up with a crazy scheme to find her Mr. Right.  They enlist the help of other co-workers to track down Montana's former flames, and the encounters begin.  Cedric in security will make you laugh outloud!   Be ready for some insane situations.  

We do not want to reveal too much about the movie!  BUT, make sure you pay attention all the way through.  Montana really seems to mature throughout the movie, and I was happy when she realized what finding her Mr. Right really meant.  Chefy and I both recommend Baggage Claim!

Have you seen the movie?  What did you think of it?  Do tell!

Warner Bros. Valentine's Day Giveaway

Disclosure: This is a non-compensated post. The information and the prize are being provided by PartnersHub.

February is the one month of the year where everyone has love on their minds! It’s can be romantic, it can be love for your children or parents or you could just be a movie lover! Whatever you love, this February Warner Bros. has you covered with some amazing DVDs perfect for the whole family!

If you’re a love lorn poet, there’s the Peanuts Collection! If you want to smother your significant other with kisses we have the Looney Tunes Pepe Le Pew Collection, and if you want to solve some madcap mystery, I’ll bet Scooby-Doo is the one for you!

Who is Your Cartoon Crush? - Everyone has had a crush at some point in their lives, but do you know who your cartoon crush is? Is it Scooby-Doo? Charlie Brown? or maybe Bugs Bunny? Find out who you would be romantically perfect with!

 Valentine’s Day Recipes! When I think of movie night, the first thing I want to know is... What are the snacks? Here are three easy and fun recipe’s perfect for your Valentine!


Would you like a chance to win one of these great DVDs?
Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown Deluxe Edition 
A Charlie Brown Valentine 
Bugs Bunny’s Cupid Capers 
Happiness is... Peanuts: Friends Forever 
Elmo Loves You 
Looney Tunes Pepe Le Pew Collection 
Scooby-Doo! 13 Spooky Tales: For The Love Of Snack

Enter on the Rafflecopter form below and you could be a winner!

Purex Crystals Fresh Mountain Breeze Review and Giveaway

Disclosure:  I am a member of Purex Insiders and I received a product sample to facilitate my honest review, and coupons to giveaway to my readers.  No monetary compensation was received.

Purex Crystals Mountain Breeze at the start of the wash directly with your laundry detergent and take the freshness of your laundry to a whole new level! 

Purex Crystals are a mainstay in my household.  They make the laundry have a wonderful scent, and good smelling laundry is important to me.  I want the confidence that my family can go out into the world and smell fresh, not STINKY.  Being married to a chef insures the chance that some of our clothes can become smelly.  Chefy is notorious for throwing his stinky chef pants and shirts in with the rest of the laundry.  Once the smell of grease and various food items mixes in with the other clothes, it is hard to get the smell out!  Luckily I have Purex Crystals to help me!    

Purex Crystals are 87% natural crystals that go in at the start of the wash, so they spend more time with your laundry infusing them with long-lasting freshness.

Purex is available in Fresh Spring Water, Lavender Blossom, Tropical Splash and Fresh Mountain Breeze.  They also have a Purex Crystals for Baby that is available now.  We were sent the Fresh Mountain Breeze scent to try out, and it was absolutely wonderful.  The scent is crisp and clean, and we loved it on our sheets and blankets.  The scent is so nice, it makes bedtime smell even better.  What scent do you think you would like?

Purex Crystals are carried at almost all major retailers in the US. To find a retail store near you, click HERE.

Make sure you enter the Crystals Fresh Mountain Breeze Sweepstakes!  You can enter to win a mountain of cash!  You can enter HERE.

Would you like to win a coupon for a free bottle of Purex Crystals?  Thanks to the wonderful people at Purex, TWO Shelly's Bits and Pieces Readers will win.  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below!

The Ultimate Life on DVD Review

Disclosure:  We received a free copy of the DVD to facilitate out honest review.  No monetary compensation was received.

This touching story of hope and family values is the follow-up to the heartwarming film and best-seller The Ultimate Gift. After receiving life-changing gifts from his grandfather, Jason Stevens finds himself in need of guidance once again. Jason’s billion dollar foundation is being challenged in a courtroom battle, which complicates his relationship with his soul mate. When it looks like he may lose it all, he finds his grandfather’s journal. With everything he loves hanging in the balance, he embarks on a journey into the past through the journal to learn what it means to live...The Ultimate Life. 

Special Features 

• The Heart of the Ultimate Life 
• Official Movie Trailer 
• Interviews with cast members Abigale Mavity, Ali Hillis, Bill Cobbs, David Mann, Drew Waters, Logan Bartholomew, Austin James, Peter Fonda, executive producer Rick Eldridge and author Jim Stovall
  
• Deleted Scenes 
• "One Life" Music Video 
• Behind the Scene Featurettes

Our thoughts:
We really enjoyed this  heartwarming movie.  I found myself rooting for Jason's grandfather as we  journeyed with Jason through his grandfather's journal.  He came a LONG way!  You learn so much about the character of the grandfather and you begin to understand the reason he made the decisions that changed Jason's life.  The characters are engaging and believable.  There are some characters I wanted to give a good smack!  The movie has a great meaning to it and the Shelly's Bits and Pieces family recommends it!

KILLING KENNEDY Latest Installment of the Thrilling Trilogy Debuts on Blu-ray™ and DVD February 11

Disclosure:  This is a non-compensated post.  Just wanted to share.

ROB LOWE, WILL ROTHHAAR, MICHELLE TRACHTENBERG
AND GINNIFER GOODWIN STAR IN

KILLING KENNEDY

 

Based on the #1 Best-Selling Book by Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard, the Latest Installment of the Thrilling Trilogy Debuts on Blu-ray™ and DVD February 11

LOS ANGELES, CA (Jan. 6, 2014) – Produced by Golden Globe® winners* Tony Scott (Unstoppable, Cyrus) and Ridley Scott (Prometheus, American Gangster), Kennedy’s legacy lives on 50 years later as National Geographic’s KILLING KENNEDY arrives on Blu-ray™ and DVD February 11 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment – timed to President’s Day.

Showcasing a phenomenal cast including Rob Lowe as John F. Kennedy, Will Rothhaar as Lee Harvey Oswald, Michelle Trachtenberg as Marina Oswald, and Ginnifer Goodwin as Jackie Kennedy, KILLING KENNEDY is based on The New York Times best-selling novel. The film traces the chilling events leading up to the gunshot heard around the world: the assassination of President John F. Kennedy by Lee Harvey Oswald in Dallas in 1963. As John F. Kennedy (Lowe) rises to become U.S. president, a former Marine grows disillusioned with America. But when their paths ultimately cross, the course of history is changed forever in a chilling aftermath.

KILLING KENNEDY chronicles one of the most beloved United States Presidents, John F. Kennedy, and the shocking story of his assassination. The movie premiered on the National Geographic Channel and was seen by more than 3.4 million people, making it the most-watched broadcast in the network’s history. This epic journey is the second in a trilogy of books written by Bill O’Reilly and his researcher and partner Martin Dugard that have been adapted for the screen with National Geographic and Scott Free Productions. The first release in the trilogy was “Killing Lincoln,” a powerful display of the outrageous events surrounding the assassination of U.S. President Abraham Lincoln. The final instalment in the trilogy is “Killing Jesus,” which follows the events leading up to the crucifixion.

The KILLING KENNEDY Blu-ray™ and DVD are loaded with never-before-seen special features that go even deeper into the conspiracy that shook the nation including an extended feature; behind-the-scenes featurettes, as well as an exclusive interview with author Bill O’Reilly!

KILLING KENNEDY Blu-ray and DVD Special Features

	●	Extended Feature
	●	Extended Feature
	●	Killing Kennedy: An Interview with Author Bill O’Reilly
	●	The Kennedy Mystique

Carlos Ponce Joins the Cast of Disney's The Pirate Fairy

 Disclosure: This is a non-compensated post. Just wanted to share!

HOLA BONITO – Disneytoon Studios called on actor/singer/composer Carlos Ponce to fill the shoes of sensitive pirate Bonito in “The Pirate Fairy.” Serving as rigger alongside James and Zarina in the film, the huge Spaniard can throw a harpoon a hundred yards. But Bonito is quite passionate about sewing, not only the ship’s sails, but also applying dainty double-stitched seams to his fairy captain’s tiny outfits. The swashbuckling new adventure about an ambitious, but misunderstood dust-keeper fairy who joins forces with a band of pirates sets sail April 1, 2014.

 

 

 From the world of “Peter Pan” comes “The Pirate Fairy,” a swashbucklingnew adventure about Zarina (voice of Christina Hendricks), a smart and ambitious dust-keeper fairy who’s captivated by Blue Pixie Dust and its endless possibilities. When Zarina’s wild ideas get her into trouble, she flees Pixie Hollow and joins forces with the scheming pirates of Skull Rock, who make her captain of their ship. Tinker Bell (voice of Mae Whitman) and her friends must embark on an epic adventure to find Zarina, and together they go sword-to-sword with the band of pirates led by a cabin boy named James (voice of Tom Hiddleston), who’ll soon be known as Captain Hook himself. With laughter, heart, magic and thrills, “The Pirate Fairy” sets sail April 1, 2014.

“Courage” trailer for Disney's PLANES: FIRE & RESCUE

Disclosure: This is a non-compensated post. We just wanted to share!

“Planes: Fire & Rescue” is a new comedy-adventure about second chances, featuring a dynamic crew of elite firefighting aircraft devoted to protecting historic Piston Peak National Park from raging wildfire. When world famous air racer Dusty (voice of Dane Cook) learns that his engine is damaged and he may never race again, he must shift gears and is launched into the world of aerial firefighting. Dusty joins forces with veteran fire and rescue helicopter Blade Ranger and his courageous team, including spirited super scooper Dipper (voice of Julie Bowen), heavy-lift helicopter Windlifter, ex-military transport Cabbie and a lively bunch of brave all-terrain vehicles known as The Smokejumpers. Together, the fearless team battles a massive wildfire and Dusty learns what it takes to become a true hero. Directed by Bobs Gannaway (“Secret of the Wings”), “Planes: Fire & Rescue” hits theaters in 3D on July 18, 2014.

“Planes: Fire & Rescue” is a new comedy-adventure in which Dusty joins forces with a dynamic crew of elite firefighting aircraft and learns what it takes to become a true hero.

Like PLANES on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/DisneyPlanes

Follow PLANES on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DisneyPictures

Activity Sheets, Photos & Film Clip for The Jungle Book Diamond Edition out 2/11

Disclosure:  This is a non-compensated post.  I just wanted to share!

As we anxiously await the release of the Diamond Edition of The Jungle Book, here are some activity sheets and a clip for your kids to enjoy!

Walking with Dinosaurs The Movie Migrating to Blu-ray™ 3D, Blu-ray and DVD March 25

Disclosure:  This is a non-compensated post.  Just wanted to share!

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment and BBC Earth Films invite you to bring home Walking with Dinosaurs The Movie, an awe-inspiring adventure 70 million years in the making, now stomping in just in time for Easter.

Dino fans of all ages will be ‘herding” to get their own copy of Walking With Dinosaurs The Movie, releasing on Blu-ray™ and DVD March 25. Hailed by viewers for its explosive visual achievements, Walking With Dinosaurs The Movie is "Jurassic Park meets The Lion King” (The Today Show) and “…too good a visual treat to miss” (Philadelphia Inquirer).

Experience the spectacular story that brings dinosaurs to life and the viewer back in time. Directed by Barry Cook (Mulan, Arthur Christmas) and Neil Nightingale (Meerkats: The Movie) and the writer behind the hit film Happy Feet, Walking With Dinosaurs The Movie features heart-warming performances from an incredible ensemble of Hollywood’s biggest stars including: John Leguizamo (Ice Age, Rio 2), Justin Long (Alvin and the Chipmunks, Dodgeball) and Karl Urban (Star Trek).

Satisfy your omnivorous appetite with tons of interactive bonus content including:

● “The Ultimate Dino Guide” where hatchlings of all ages will be immersed in their own personal journey to uncover the greatest secrets about their favorite dinos.     ● Test your skill by learning a whole new language with “Match the Call,” and hear how Dinos communicated with their friends and foes.     ● “Interactive Map” takes the viewer on an interactive tour of where dinos roamed the earth, uncovering the same places people live today.     ● Become a dino expert as you watch the movie and follow along with the pop-up “Brainosaur Trivia Track”

Filmed with the latest in cutting edge 3D technology, Walking With Dinosaurs The Movie taps the masterminds behind visual hits like Avatar, using Cameron Pace Fusion 3D technology to fully immerse viewers while recruiting animation house, Animal Logic (The Matrix Trilogy, 300), to bring digital dino magic to life by creating photorealistic dinosaurs based on paleontological research from world experts retained by the BBC.

Synopsis:

The gigantic voice talents of Justin Long (Alvin and the Chipmunks franchise) and John Leguizamo (Ice Age franchise) take you on a thrilling prehistoric journey the whole family will enjoy! In a time when dinosaurs rule the Earth, the smallest of the pack — a playful Pachyrhinosaurus named Patchi — embarks on the biggest adventure of his life. As he tries to find his place in a spectacular world filled with fun-loving friends and a few dangerous foes, Patchi will discover the courage he needs to become the leader of the herd...and a hero for the ages.

The film’s run time is approximately 87 minutes and is rated PG for creature action and peril, and mild, rude humor.

Clip - Adventure Time: The Complete Third Season on Blu-ray & DVD 2/25!!

Disclosure:  This is a non-compensated post!  Just wanted to share!

Get ready, Adventurers! 

Come out and play with BMO on February 25th, as Cartoon Network will release ADVENTURE TIME: THE COMPLETE THIRD SEASON on Blu-ray and DVD! Let the fun begin by sharing with your readers what BMO's real treasure is with this Adventure Time clip:

Cartoon Network Announces Blu-ray™ and DVD Release for

Adventure Time: The Complete Third Season 

 

Available February 25, Release Contains More Than Four Hours of Episodes Plus Episode Commentaries for All 26 Episodes, an Interview with Pendleton Ward & Alternate Show Intro – All Packed Into a Custom, Collectible BMO Die-Cut Slipcase!

This February, Cartoon Network will release the third full-season installment of its most mathematical animated series on both Blu-ray™ and DVD as Adventure Time: The Complete Third Season hits retail. Continuing the franchise’s home entertainment momentum which has included a series of top-selling releases to date, the Blu-ray and DVD both feature all 26 episodes from the series’ third season, as well as must-have bonus features including episode commentaries for ALL 26 episodes, an interview with series creator Pendleton Ward, an alternate show introduction. Plus, further satiating even the most passionate Adventure Time fans, it’s BMO! Fans and collectors are in for a special treat with a custom die-cut BMO slipcase, which transforms the Blu-ray and DVD packaging into their very own collectible BMO figurine. Available on February 25 for the suggested retail price of $32.07 and $26.95 for Blu-ray and two-disc DVD, respectively.

“Adventure Time has become a phenomenon that has resonated with audiences of all ages – and we’re thrilled to keep up with the demand for full-season and Blu-ray sets for those most passionate fans with today’s announcement,” said Erik Resnick, vice president of Cartoon Network Enterprises, the home entertainment division of the network. “Our third full-season release will bring more of what Adventure Time fans love about these collectible sets: hours of their favorite episodes bundled with great bonus features created for fans by the show team, all in unique, collectible packaging.”

As one of Cartoon Network’s most popular series, Adventure Time continues to grow and thrive since its on-air debut in April 2010. With strong on-air success through its fifth season, critical acclaim, passionate fan base and strong consumer products program, the brand has become a massive hit among audiences of all ages. During its fifth season, the series was the #1 show among boys 6-11, as well as a top-rated show among kids 6-11, and kids and boys 9-14, according to Nielson Media Research. With a huge social following of more than 10 million fans on Facebook, Adventure Time consistently ranks as a top digital brand as well, with top-rated apps and online games featured on CartoonNetwork.com. Additionally, the Adventure Time consumer products program attempts to satiate the fan base’s desire to interact with their favorite characters with a robust licensing program that includes toys, apparel, publishing, accessories, interactive games, youth electronics, comic books, posters and much more. Some recent successes for the brand range from the Adventure Time Encyclopaedia from Abrams Publishing debuting on the New York Times Best Sellers list this summer to the monthly comic book line from Boom Studios winning the 2013 Eisner Award for Best Publication for Kids (Ages 8-12) at 25^th annual Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards ceremony at Comic-Con.

From the mind of series creator Pendleton Ward and produced by Cartoon Network Studios, Adventure Time follows the unlikely heroes Finn and Jake, best buddies who traverse the mystical Land of Ooo and encounter its colorful inhabitants – and always find themselves in the middle of heart-pounding escapades. Finn, a silly kid with an awesome hat and Jake, a brassy dog with a big kind heart, depend on each other through thick and thin. The Land of Ooo is teeming with imposing mountains, lush green plains, accessible forests, ubiquitous prairies and winding rivers, the cities and towns are filled with bizarre characters in need of unique assistance. Whether it’s saving Princess Bubblegum, defeating zombie candy, mocking the “oxy-moronic” Ice King, or rocking out with undead music wiz Marceline the Vampire Queen, with Finn and Jake it’s always Adventure Time.

Half Popped Children's Book Review & Giveaway

Disclosure:  We received a copy of the book to facilitate our honest review.  No monetary compensation was received.

About the book:  Half Popped is the heart-warming and whimsical story of Kenny the Kernel, a discouraged but friendly popcorn kernel who believes he never reached his full potential.  As Kenny journeys through the kitchen, he helps cheer up other down-on-their-luck snacks by pointing out the bright side to their situations, all the while harboring a half-empty view of himself. Until....

With a silly, story-telling rhyme evocative of Shel Silverstein poetry and unique artwork that combines photography and illustration, the charming tale serves as a lesson in self-confidence and reminds young readers that a genuine compliment has the power to make a friend's day.

Sometimes it takes an outside perspective to see it, but there's a place and a purpose in this world for everyone -- even Kenny the Kernel, who was only half-popped, and turned out that way when the microwave stopped.

Our thoughts:  Everyone feels discouraged sometimes.  It is a journey we all encounter, the road we travel and how we handle things, makes all the difference.  Half Popped did a great job explaining things on a level that everyone can understand.  We enjoyed following Kenny on his journey.  It was so nice to see him cheering others even though he was discouraged himself.  We loved the adorable illustrations, and by rhyming, the story just flowed flawlessly.  The story line is so sweet and the lesson it teaches it priceless.  We should all embrace our differences and know we are special, just the way we are.

GIVEAWAY:

One lucky Shelly's Bits and Pieces reader will win a copy of Half Popped to share with their own family.  Simply enter on the Rafflecopter form below.

THE ADVENTURES OF CHUCK & FRIENDS: TRUCKS VERSUS WILD - CLIPS

Disclosure:  This is a non-compensated post.  I just wanted to share!

On January 21st, Shout! Factory in collaboration with Hasbro Studios, released The Adventures of Chuck & Friends: Trucks Versus Wild on DVD! Here are some fun clips for you to enjoy!  You can order at: The Adventures of Chuck & Friends: Trucks Versus Wild.

Juan Pablo Buscarini's NOAH'S ARK on DVD March 11

Disclosure:  This is a non-compensated post.  Just wanted to share the information!

Based on the Bible story by the same name, Noah’s Ark journeys to biblical times to as it tells the familiar tale of Noah, his family and the animals who traveled in the ark to survive an epic flood meant to destroy the rest of civilization. This animated movie takes a lighter approach to this traditional material, as the story is mainly told from animals’ perspective, and both animals and humans can speak.

Noah is building a whale of a boat in order to save two of every species from a flood that will cover the entire world. Pretty soon, animals are lining up to board the Ark two by two. But as the rain begins to fall outside, it soon becomes clear that living together on a very cramped ship isn't going to be easy!

Trouble begins to brew when the animals begin to get hungry, a pair of stowaways plot to take over the ship, Dagnino the Tiger wants to replace the irresponsible Lion, Xiro, as king of the beasts and Noah’s own family begins to squabble! One thing’s for sure – it won’t be smooth sailing on this trip. But with a little luck and a little faith, Noah will be able to deliver his floating zoo to safety.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire arrives 3/7/14

Disclosure:  This is a non-compensated post!  Just wanted to share!  I'm excited about it!

The second installment of the worldwide phenomenon is packed with over two hours of extensive, must-see bonus materials that include a Blu-ray-exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film, “Surviving the Game: Making Catching Fire,” deleted scenes, an audio commentary with director Francis Lawrence and producer Nina Jacobson as well as a sneak peek at the highly-anticipated theatrical action film Divergent from Lionsgate’s Summit label. The Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD will be available for the suggested retail price of $39.99 and $29.95, respectively.

Hailed as “a monumental achievement” (The Playlist), The Hunger Games: Catching Fire features a critically-acclaimed cast including Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson (The Kids Are All Right), Liam Hemsworth (The Expendables 2), Academy Award® nominee Woody Harrelson (The People vs Larry Flynt, 1996), Emmy® nominee Elizabeth Banks (TV’s “30 Rock”), Lenny Kravitz (Precious), Academy Award® nominee Stanley Tucci (The Lovely Bones, 2009) and Golden Globe® winner Donald Sutherland (Path to War), reprising their original roles from The Hunger Games. The impressive line-up is joined by Academy Award® winner Philip Seymour Hoffman (Capote, 2005), Jeffrey Wright (Codeblack Films’ The Inevitable Defeat of Mister & Pete), Jena Malone (Into The Wild), Amanda Plummer (Pulp Fiction) and Sam Claflin (Snow White and the Huntsman).

Based on the best-selling second novel of Suzanne Collins’ award-winning trilogy, with a screenplay by Simon Beaufoy and Michael DeBruyn and directed by Francis Lawrence (I Am Legend), The Hunger Games: Catching Fire begins as, against all odds, Katniss and her fellow tribute Peeta have returned home after surviving The Hunger Games. Winning means they must turn around, leaving their loved ones behind and embark on a “Victory Tour” through the districts. Along the way, Katniss senses a rebellion simmering – one that she and Peeta may have sparked. At the end of the Victory Tour, President Snow announces a deadly 75th Hunger Games that could change Panem forever.

THE LITTLE RASCALS SAVE THE DAY - On Blu-ray and DVD April 1st

Disclosure:  This is a non-compensated post.  I just wanted to share!!

The most adorable rabble-rousers in film history return in The Little Rascals Save the Day, a fun-filled, all-new adventure featuring Spanky, Alfalfa, Buckwheat, Darla, Petey the Dog and all their friends. Directed by Alex Zamm (Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2), The Little Rascals Save the Day arrives on Blu-ray Combo Pack including Blu-ray, DVD, & DIGITAL HD with UltraViolet on April 1, 2014, from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. The film will also be available on DIGITAL HD two weeks early on March 18, 2014.

In the spirit of the treasured Our Gang comedies, The Little Rascals Save the Day finds the most entertaining bunch of third graders in town hatching a series of madcap schemes to earn enough money to keep Grandma’s (Doris Roberts of “Everybody Loves Raymond”) bakery out of the clutches of conniving businessman Big Ray (Greg Germann of Here Comes the Boom). From caddying to pet care to taxi service, each of their plans goes hilariously awry until they are left with just two options: find a way to win the local talent show or wave goodbye to the best cupcakes a kid ever tasted!

Eden Wood of the hit reality series “Toddlers and Tiaras” makes her feature film debut as pint-sized coquette, Darla, along with the fresh young faces of Camden Gray, Chase Vacnin, Connor Berry, Drew Justice, Grant Palmer II, YouTube sensation Isaiah “Zay-Zay” Fredericks, Jet Jurgensmeyer, Jenna Ortega and Rio Mangini in the iconic Rascals family-friendly original comedy.  Adult actors Valerie Azlynn (“Sullivan and Son”) and Lex Medlin (“Drop Dead Diva”) complete the cast.

When a stranger calls, over and over!

Disclosure:  This post is a part of the Blog Dare I am participating in for 2014. Come join us at BloggyMoms!

Feb 2 Prompt: Did I catch you at a bad time?

My hubby and I do not get as much quality alone time as we would like.  When we get the chance for some adult time together, we try to ignore phones and knocks.  One afternoon, our daughter was at her cousin's house and Chefy and I were thrilled to find ourselves alone.  We locked the doors and retired to the bedroom.  We did take a telephone because our daughter was away from home, and at the time, my grandma was in the hospital.

We had a chance to get comfy and cuddle on our bed when the phone rang.  I had to get up to answer it...wrong number.  Back to bed, and back to our cuddle time.  The phone rings again.  Wrong Number!
I brought the phone and placed it in the bed, and kissed Chefy.  We both laughed about the interruption.  As we were cuddled together talking, the phone rang a 3rd time.  Chefy answered it, and the person just started this conversation.  Chefy looked at me and shrugged his shoulders.  Then he told the person that they had the wrong number, and they wanted to argue with him about it.  He hung up, tossed the phone across the room and snuggled close to me.  Finally, the house was quiet, and we started to try to get romantic.  Just then, that phone rang again.  We tried to ignore it, but it rang continually.  It would go to the voice mail, then they called right back.  After hearing it ring long enough, Chefy jumped up and grabbed the phone.  I almost felt sorry for the caller when Chefy yelled, "WHAT?"  Then a look came over my hubby that was very odd.  Then he said, "OK, honey, I'll come out and help."  It was not the stranger calling that time.  Our daughter had been outside, and when she could not get in, she started calling us.  OOOPS.   We never did get that romantic alone time.

I slept 14 hours

Disclosure:  This post is a part of the Blog Dare I am participating in for 2014. Come join us at BloggyMoms!

 Feb 1 Prompt:  Well, this is weird.

Usually, I am up at all hours of the night, and for the last week or so, I've probably been running on about four hours of sleep every night.  Friday night, I just could not sleep.  No matter what I did, my mind would not shut off.  On Saturday, we had to go to a funeral, and I was doing great.  I was not sleepy and I was wide awake.  We ran all day!  After the funeral, we took my mom out for a birthday dinner, then ran to grab some deals at 2 local grocery stores.

We got home about 7pm and that was the last thing I really remember. I sat down on the couch, yawned and that was it! I woke up this morning at 9am.  I have never slept that long unless I was sedated.  Chefy came in and jokingly said, "She's Alive!"  Then he tells me that he tried to get me off the couch the night before and that I just would not stay awake long enough to go.  I have no memory of him saying anything to me, and even Kat said she spoke to me too.   Too Weird!

Has that ever happened to you?  What is the longest you have ever slept?

Happy Chinese New Year from My Little Pony: A Dash of Awesome!

Disclosure:  This is a non-compensated post.  Just wanted to share!

Celebrating the Year of the Horse with My Little Pony: A Dash of Awesome!   This great DVD flies home on March 25th! 

Rainbow Dash is one cool pony… make that an awesome pony! My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic: A Dash Of Awesome is coming to DVD in the U.S. and Canada on March 25 from Shout! Factory Kids in collaboration with Hasbro Studios, and it includes a sing-along as a bonus feature.

Join Rainbow Dash for five thrilling adventures alongside her very best friends in all of Equestria; the studious Twilight Sparkle, quiet animal lover Fluttershy, the party enthusiast Pinkie Pie, the always loyal apple farmer Applejack, and Ponyville's very own fashionista Rarity! That's right! Five episodes dedicated to everypony's favorite highflying Pegasus, Rainbow Dash! The episodes include “May the Best Pet Win!,” “The Mysterious Mare Do Well,” “Read It and Weep,” “Daring Don’t,” and “Rainbow Falls.”

The My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic series is currently airing on The HUB TV Network in the U.S. and on Treehouse in Canada.

Snag a Cheerios Buy One Get One Free Coupon plus Commercial Super Bowl Sunday!

Disclosure:  This is a non-compensated post.  I was provided the information and coupon link from MyBlogSpark and just wanted to share!

Help Cheerios celebrate their first-ever Big Game commercial spot with an exclusive Cheerios Buy One, Get One Free Coupon!

While you’re enjoying the Big Game this Sunday, be sure to keep an eye out for the premiere of Cheerios first-ever game day commercial! Cheerios is also partnering with a non-profit organization called The Family Dinner Project, to bring you The Family Breakfast Project, which provides tips, recipes and activities to help families connect over breakfast.

Use the limited time, buy one get one free coupon to get begin experimenting with the Family Breakfast Project recipes and activities. The coupon is valid only until February 15th, and limited to only one million first come first served respondents – download it here, and be sure to share with your friends as well. Be sure to visit Cheerios.com to join the Family Breakfast Project, or to watch the commercial!

Avoid Derailing your Diet with Tips and Recipes from Jenny Craig

Disclosure:  This is a non-compensated post.  I just wanted to share the information provided by Jenny Craig!

Super Bowl Sunday has been known to derail my diet!  Here are some tips to help you avoid that!

GAME DAY HEALTHY EATING TIPS FROM JENNY CRAIG:

TACKLE CRAVINGS 
·        Fill up on fewer calories, and sip on a broth-based soup before the big game. 
·        If tempted by too many indulgent choices, take a small portion of the one you like best. Incorporating a small splurge can keep you from feeling deprived and overindulging later. 

TAKE AN ALCOHOL TIME-OUT (DRINK DOs AND DON’Ts) 
·        Instead of grabbing a regular soda or alcoholic beverage, make a pitcher of iced tea and sweeten it with a no-calorie sweetener. 
·        If you plan on drinking alcohol, alternate your drinks with water. This will help you to stay hydrated and avoid excess calories snacking. 
·        Keep it light and take it slow when it comes to alcohol. If you are going to have a beer, make it a light one. Plan your number of drinks in advance.

STAY IN MOTION 
·        Keep your energy levels up! During breaks in the action, get up on your feet and move, but not to the food table. Stretch your arms and legs, do squats or practice your own touchdown celebration moves. 
·        Take advantage of commercial breaks and music during the halftime show to dance, laugh and move around. 

MINDFUL MAIN EVENT 
·        If you are hosting, provide lots of healthy choices for the big game to give your guests options. Take a look at some of the recipes below.
·        Plan ahead, eat mindfully, and enjoy the day with your friends. The more you get wrapped up in the game and socializing, the less you’ll focus on the food. 
·        If you are faced with a calorie-laden buffet, use the smallest plate you can find to keep your servings portion-controlled. Fill up once and avoid the second helping.

Here are some recipes for you too!

HEALTHY GAME DAY RECIPES:

JENNY-FRIENDLY SLOPPY JOSÉS
Prep Time: 10 minutes/ Cook Time: 10 minutes

INGREDIENTS 
·        1 1/4 pound(s) lean ground beef or turkey 
·        1 can (15.5 ounces) sloppy joe sauce 
·        1 cup canned, red kidney beans, rinsed and drained 
·        1 can (7 ounces) Mexican-style corn 
·        10 (6-inch) corn tortillas, heated according to package directions, kept warm 
·        3/4 cup lettuce, finely shredded 
·        1/2 cup tomato, finely diced 

DIRECTIONS: 
·        Brown ground beef or turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, chopping and turning often, about 5 minutes, until cooked through.

·        Add the sloppy joe sauce, kidney beans, and corn and heat through, about 3 minutes.

·        To serve, place a tortilla in a small soup bowl and ladle half cup of the Sloppy José mixture in the center.

·        Top with shredded lettuce and chopped tomato.

·        Yield: 10 servings

JENNY-FRIENDLY LAYERED NACHOS featuring Jenny’s Cuisine® Turkey Chili 
Prep Time: 10 minutes/ Cook Time: 5 minutes

INGREDIENTS 
·        Nonstick cooking spray 
·        ½ cup onion, chopped 
·        1 Jenny’s Cuisine^® Turkey Chili 
·        or (15 oz) refried beans 
·        ½ cup salsa 
·        1 Tbl lime juice 
·        ½ tsp chili powder 
·        8 cups tortilla chips 
·        1 cup shredded reduced-fat Colby and Monterey Jack cheese blend 
·        ½ cup jicama, diced 
·        1 large tomato, diced 
·        ¼ cup Cotija cheese, crumbled 
·        ½ avocado, diced 
·        4 spring onion, minced 
·        1 jalapeno, thinly-sliced 
·        1/8 cup cilantro, chopped 


DIRECTIONS: 
·        Preheat oven to 400°. 
·        Spray pan with nonstick cooking spray and sauté onion until translucent. Stir in refried beans, salsa, lime juice, chili powder and simmer.

·        In a 9” x 13” baking dish, place 2 cups of tortilla chips topped with bean mixture and ¼ cup shredded cheese. Layer evenly and repeat 3 more times. Bake for 5 minutes (or until cheese is melted).

·        Top with jicama, tomato, Cotija, avocado, onion, jalapeno and cilantro.

·        Yield: 8 servings