Soundfreaq Sound Kick Wireless Bluetooth Speaker {Review}

While there are many things that increase during the holiday season (e.g. altruism, gift-giving, shopping, traveling, etc), for me, one aspect is also the amount of music in my life.

Whether while wrapping presents, decorating the tree or baking cookies, festive background music just has a way of ushering in the holiday spirit like nothing else. The problem, however, arises when I move from room to room and want the ability to take my favorite songs with me to both entertain myself and my guests.

As the majority of my (and my husband's) music is stored conveniently on our iPhones, I've often looked at getting a speaker dock... but it somehow seems like we would just end up leaving it stashed away in another room simply due to hassle. And, although I know that there are wireless speaker options, spending hundreds of dollars on one just doesn't seem practical.

Fortunately, the best of all worlds can be found in the budget-friendly, award-winning Sound Kick portable, wireless speaker by Soundfreaq.

Compatible with any Bluetooth device, the Soundfreaq Sound Kick speaker enables the whole family to listen to their favorite holiday tunes with full, clear sound. No need to attach your iPod or smartphone, as the wireless speakers allow you to keep your device with you at all times and can stream audio from up to 33' away.

Could it be that easy? I would simply have to turn this wireless speaker on, sync it with my phone's Bluetooth and I would be able to listen to all of my favorite tunes?

Right out of the box, the Sound Kick seemed... simple. As I'm far from being a tech expert, I did have a few concerns about how easy it would be to set up and work this device.

However, thanks to the minimal, modern design of the speaker itself and the clear, easy to follow instructions, it took all of 30 seconds before I had this turned on, paired with my husband's phone (he has a much larger iTunes music library than I do... due to his obsessiveness and my laziness), and ready to blast some music.

Right away I appreciated that the Sound Kick has an internal battery that can provide portable sound for up to seven hours, or that the entire device can be plugged in with the included AC wall adapter.

As an added bonus, Soundfreaq included a USB power port on the back of the Sound Kick, making it possible to charge external devices while in use. Meaning that there would be no worry about my phone's battery running low while I'm jamming away, as I can plug it right into this speaker and juice it up at the same time!

I'm already a big fan of the Sound Kick and I can see why it has won multiple awards (Overall Best of Show from iLounge at CES 2012 and Gizmodo's award for Best $100 Bluetooth Speaker). The sound is sharp and clear and I love the ability to use the controls right on the Sound Kick to control playback and volume.

No matter what kind of audio you are listening to from your mobile device — music, movies, TV shows, videos, games, Internet radio and apps — the Sound Kick provides a great sound experience!

I have had no problem pairing my own iPhone with the Sound Kick and love how quickly we can switch between devices. In fact, as this speaker is compatible with any Bluetooth-enabled device, my husband and I can easily share it between us depending on the day or occasion. As my girls get older and have their own mp3 players, I'm sure this will be a whole family device!

Along those lines, there isn't any worry about next year's devices and compatibility issues, as Soundfreaq designed this quality product to be compatible with future Bluetooth gadgets as well. Once my girls get their devices or if my husband and I upgrade in future years, we'll still be able to rock out to the Sound Kick with ease.

For now, however, we're loving having such an easy way to kick back and listen to our favorite songs no matter where we are and what we're doing. Forget my previous way of listening to holiday music (returning to my laptop over and over to keep clicking between songs and turning the volume up and down), now we're in the holiday spirit wherever and whenever we want!

We definitely had the holiday music blaring during our "kickoff" to the season of dancing and decorating the Christmas tree!

A great holiday gift for a spouse, kids, friends, or relatives, the Sound Kick would be an especially wonderful idea for anyone who might be receiving a new device for the holidays. As this is compatible with any Bluetooth device including the new iPhone 5, iPad mini, iPod nano, iPad, iPhone, iPod touch and Android and Blackberry devices, PCs and tablets, it will work for just about anyone!

Retailing for $99.99, the Sound Kick is available in various colors, including black, an all-white Ghost edition and the new Chromatics Collection in colorful Sunset, Ocean and Twilight. There is also a case available for the Sound Kick, which can be purchased separately or as part of a bundled version with the Sound Kick itself.

With a sleek design and color to satisfy every family member's style while staying within a budget, a Sound Kick speaker provides a way to wirelessly stream your favorite music with ease anywhere and anytime. You can't go wrong!

Find out more about the Sound Kick and all of Soundfreaq's innovative products (available for purchase in the Soundfreaq store, online at Target.com, BestBuy.com, Staples.com and Kohls.com and nationwide at Target, Radio Shack, Walmart, and Sears stores) by visiting Soundfreaq.com and connecting with them on Facebook and Twitter.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Soundfreaq and received a product sample to facilitate my review.

Tips for Getting Your Car Ready for Winter from the International Carwash Association {Winter Emergency Kit Giveaway}

While my family is decidedly modern, there are some aspects around here where my husband and I follow stereotypical "woman's work" and "man's work" roles.

I do more of the cooking and laundry (because I'm home during the day and because I love laundry), while he takes out the garbage and cleans out the gutters (because... eew. I don't want to do either).

Another area where I defer to my husband to take more responsibility is with our cars. While I can handle keeping my van filled with gas, that really is the extent of it. Back in my younger years, I was known to jump a car or change a flat on my own, but clearly I must have gotten wimpier since then, because neither of those sound like something I would do these days.

Therefore, when it comes to getting my car ready for winter, I'm thankful for tips from knowledgeable folks like the International Carwash Association (ICA) who can help me out.

Even better, I love knowing that the ICA, through its Wash With WaterSavers consumer awareness campaign, is committed to promoting the importance of using eco-friendly carwashes that use less fresh water and return clean water back into the environment. Smart plus green!

Thanks to the ICA, here are an important list of 5 Tips to Getting Your Car Ready For Winter:

1. Wash and wax your car at a professional car wash – It may seem counterintuitive to get your car nice and shiny for what is often the sloppiest season, but a thorough wash can remove harmful compounds that may cause damage when mixed with sand and road salt. Experts from the International Carwash Association also recommend a coat of wax for an extra layer of protection from the elements.

Professional car washes can also save up to 20% of the amount of water you'd use by washing your car at home. They do this by treating and reusing their water, rather than releasing toxic chemicals and grime into the storm drains, which can often occur with pavement washing. Check out WashWithWaterSavers.com to see how professional car washes save water and help prevent pollution.

2. Check fluids – Check your coolant to make sure you have enough, as you'll be left without heat if you don't. Consult your owner's manual to find the correct blend if you need to add more. It's never a bad idea to keep extra coolant in your trunk in case of an emergency. Don't forget about extra wiper fluid, either. It's not expensive, so stock up!

3. Winter emergency kit – In addition to stocking your car with a scraper and brush, it's a good idea to include a few provisions in case you get stranded in snowy and cold conditions. Pack extra blankets, hats and gloves, high-energy snacks like granola bars, drinking water and a first-aid kit.

The ICA has put together a really great emergency kit that truly includes just about everything you need (minus water and food) to keep in your car at all times:

4. Test your battery – The next time you have the car in for an oil change, ask the mechanic to test your battery to make sure it can provide enough starting power once the temperature plummets.

5. Check your wipers – When sloppy weather hits, you'll want to make sure you have strong wiper blades to see through the elements. Checking your wiper blades for wear and replacing them if needed can prevent huge visibility headaches once snow and sleet arrive.

This winter, don't be caught unprepared. Make the smart choices for you and your family that will have your car in tip-top shape and less likely to cause you problems. As for me, this is going to the top of my husband's to-do list!

And, thanks to the generosity of the ICA, one person will be just as ready for the unexpected as I am, because...

One lucky person will win a Winter Emergency Kit prize package*!

*Winter Emergency Kit contains: (1) 32 oz. WaterSavers branded water bottle, (1) Carabiner key chain, (1) Medium flashlight, (2) heavy duty AA batteries, (1) 19-piece first aid kit, (1) Survival tool, (1) Pocket knife, (1) Emergency poncho, (1) Emergency blanket, (1) Mesh sack, (2) tea light candles, Safety matches, and Survival instruction card

Enter using the Giveaway Tools form below — simply enter your name and email address and click on each entry that you would like to complete. Follow the directions for each individual method, entering in the necessary information when asked. If you have any questions or problems, feel free to let me know.

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I am working with the International Carwash Association to share these tips for getting your car ready for winter. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.

i play., Inc. Winter Accessories and green sprouts Organic Velour Blankie Animal {Review & Giveaway}

As fall turns into winter here in the Midwest, it always makes me think of two things.

One, I don't like winter.

Two, I'm thankful for durable, high quality gear that I can count on to keep my kids warm and comfortable throughout all of the cold days that we endure.

Fortunately for Little Sister B, I only have to reach into her closet to pull out her Waterproof Insulated Snow Bib from our i play., Inc. review last February. After all, these incredible snow bibs kept every snowflake off of her last winter day after day (and barely even look worn now), so I have no doubt that they will provide the same stellar performance this year.

Although this year will be even better thanks to the addition of our new favorite winter accessories: the Fleece Earwarmer Cap, Fleece Mittens and Mitten Clips from i play. as well as the adorable Organic Velour Blankie Animal from green sprouts.

Available in Navy or Pink combinations, these Cap, Mittens and Clips are available for infants through toddlers to keep their heads and hands toasty all winter long. 

I love that the fleece-covered flaps of the hat completely protect little ears and the inclusion of the Velcro closure under the chin ensures that it won't blow off in the wind or let cold air in the sides. As opposed to other, lightweight, flimsy hats that we have owned, this one features multiple layers of fleece that provide warmth as well as a cute style.

Even better, it is reversible! If there is a chance that Little Sister B ever gets tired of the Pink Floral, we can easily flip the whole thing over to show the solid pink microfleece lining instead.

As much as we have loved this hat, the arrival of the i play. Fleece Mittens and Mitten Clips has been an exciting occurrence that has been thrilling Little Sister B (and me) every day since.

These warm fleece mittens (also available for infants through toddlers) feature an elastic wrist opening with a Velcro wrist closure. The combination makes them easy for Little Sister B to put on and off by herself, while also providing a way to stay tightly closed to keep out any cold or snow.

Add in the overall thickness of the bright pink fleece and the non-skid palm patches for added protection, and it's no wonder that these are my daughter's favorite mittens!

However, as well as keeping her hands safe and warm, I love that these mittens also provide me with less worry over loss due to the convenient Mitten Clips!

Gone are the days of my youth when I had a piece of string running up and down my sleeves to tie my mittens on, as these clips are a quick, convenient, stylish alternative.

Simply attach one end to the mitten and one end to the end of a coat sleeve (they even have safety clips to help prevent pinched fingers), and you won't miss having to say, Where are your mittens?, What happened to your mittens? and Why do you only have ONE mitten? over and over again.

With a retail price of $13 for the Fleece Earwarmer Cap, $9 for the Fleece Mittens and $5.50 for the Mitten Clips, the combination of all three has provided the perfect way for Little Sister B to stay bundled up and happy all winter long.

Speaking of happy, we're always on the lookout for great products that will make wonderful, joy-providing gifts for the new babies of our friends, so we couldn't be more excited about being able to soon gift the Cornflower Lion Organic Velour Blankie Animal from green sprouts.

Available in Rose Bunny, Cornflower Lion or Sage Panda designs, this plush blankie doll is just right for small hands to grab and hold. Created from an organic cotton/poly velour and lightly filled with cotton, this cute animal not only provides babies with a soft pal, but parents don't have to to worry about it being unsafe if it goes into their little one's mouth.

Retailing for $15, all of this cuteness and plush softness is making me want to keep Cornflower Lion for myself!

From adorable layette to sweet little rain boots to toys that will bring a smile, i play., Inc.'s high quality and affordable prices will keep you coming back for more. Available online or in retail stores across the country and worldwide, you can easily find these amazing products throughout the internet or check them out in person at your favorite nearby store.

And, thanks to i play.'s generosity, two people will get to do just that, because...

One lucky person will have their choice of the size and color Fleece Earwarmer Cap, Fleece Mittens or Mitten Clips from i play. and one lucky person will have their choice of the Rose Bunny, Cornflower Lion or Sage Panda from green sprouts!

Enter using the Giveaway Tools form below — simply enter your name and email addres and click on each entry that you would like to complete. Follow the directions for each individual method, entering in the necessary information when asked. If you have any questions or problems, feel free to let me know.

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A big thank you to i play., Inc. for providing the aforementioned products for me to review as well as one product each for two lucky giveaway winners. The opinions shared are my own and honest and if you really need to see more, click here to see how I roll. 

Disney Fairies Secret of the Wings Toys from JAKKS Pacific {Review}

In a house with two girls, we don't have any shortage of princess love around here. However, recently the focus has often shifted from the traditional castles and ball gowns to forests and wings thanks to Disney Fairies' newest movie, Secret of the Wings.

Our whole family enjoyed this movie immensely (check out our review here) and now it seems as though the majority of my kids' imaginative adventures include flying and wings lighting up and saving the Pixie Dust Tree. Considering the cute, sweet messages of friendship, family and working together that this movie portrays, I'm happy to see my girls so excited to extend them into our everyday life!

Tinker Bell, everyone's favorite Disney Fairies character, is back with her latest fun and imaginative adventure. In Secret of the Wings, she visits the forbidden and mysterious Winter Woods where her wings begin to magically sparkle. It's only after she meets Periwinkle, a beautiful Frost Fairy, that she uncovers the truth behind the glow…they are long lost twin sisters!

Inspired by the movie, JAKKS Pacific has developed a magical line of dolls, dress up and role play items that truly brings the movie to life and allows girls to relive their favorite movie moments (and create their own).

When a selection of Secret of the Wings toys arrived, I had no doubt that my girls would be thrilled to get to experience the magic of the movie with such colorful new ways. Even the box was a delightful fairy hit!

As soon as the Disney Fairies Magical Light Up Wings (SRP $19.99, ages 3+) were out of the box, it was clear that they were going to provide a great deal of oohs and ahhs. Who wouldn't be drawn to a magical pair of fiber optic wings that light up in six different vibrant colors?

I love how easy these wings are for my girls to use (there is a simple on/off switch on the back) and that the lightweight fabric is so comfortable for them to wear. They don't have any problem slipping their arms into the durable elastic straps and then fluttering around as they transform into these beautiful fairies!

When it comes to pretending and reenacting Secret of the Wings, it just wouldn't be the same without the characters themselves. As we opened our Disney Fairies Secret of The Wings Fashion Doll - Periwinkle (SRP $11.99, ages 4+) it brought a smile to our faces to see this starring character in a miniature, 9" size.

Also available in Tinker Bell, Silvermist, Rosetta and Spike, this adorable fairy is just the right size to hold, make "fly," and recreate the adventures of Pixie Hollow and the Winter Woods. My girls have had a great time admiring her fashionable winter clothing, removable shining wings (attached with Velcro) and cute little shoes.

Now we just have to bring home Tinker Bell so that the girls can bring the twin sisters together!

When it comes to the magic of flying fairies, however, the Disney Fairies Sky High Periwinkle (SRP $16.99, ages 4+) has made that possible in a whimsical and entertaining way.

Featuring a petite Periwinkle with plastic arms/wings and a flower-shaped launcher, this toy is designed to make it easy to help this Frost Fairy soar through the air. Simply place her in the launcher, pull the string and watch her spin around and around as she flies up to 10 feet high!

I appreciate the way that this doll comes with a safety lock mechanism that kicks in when it is not being held at a 90° angle, therefore preventing the user from accidentally launching the doll into themselves or someone nearby.

Instead, you simply give the string a good pull and watch Periwinkle go shooting off into the sky!

As well as the variety of whimsical dolls, toys and apparel that JAKKS Pacific has debuted to bring Secret of the Wings to life, they are also celebrating the special bond that sisters (and best friends) share with an exciting Disney Fairies giveaway, aptly named the "Sisters Sweepstakes."

Just visit the JAKKS Facebook page and have your daughter explain why her sister or best friend is so special to her. You can also upload a photo or drawing to receive an extra entry and can enter each week to increase your chances of winning.

The grand prize is an amazing trip for four to Los Angeles, complete with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Disney Toon Studios, while additional Secret of the Wings prize packs will be given out each week. This fun sweepstakes runs until December 31, 2012, so head over to find out more and enter now!

For any young fans of Secret of the Wings, JAKKS Pacific has made it easy to extend the magical experience to the playroom and beyond with their durable, entertaining line of products and great sweepstakes.

If you haven't yet seen Disney Fairies' latest movie, visit DisneyFairies.com for a sneak peek. You can also find out more about all of JAKKS Pacific's collections on their website as well as connecting with them on Facebook and Twitter.

This review was made possible by Mom Spark Media but all thoughts and opinions are honest and my own.