Wednesday, July 31, 2013

***FREE SAMPLES*** July 12-31, 2013

I receive offers several times a week from FreeFlys that I can choose to accept or reject. They are for free products that they mail me, or for a coupon to receive the product for free from the store. They range from food samples, beauty samples, children samples, health samples, and other samples. I've posted my YouTube video along with pictures of those products with a description of them.
I will be honest, I did pay shipping on two of those products... The Honest Company, and the Episencial. They were under $5 for the shipping, but the products were free, so I have included them into this blog.

HERE'S MY YOUTUBE VIDEO

Maxwell House
Keurig K-cup from Maxwell House, the flavor is French Roast and it is from the Café Collection. It is 100% Arabica Coffee.. The box shows that they have 3 new flavors... House Blend, French Roast, and Breakfast Blend. I haven't tried any of the Maxwell House flavors, nor has my husband. I can't wait to try this item.
***UPDATE 8/12/13*** This was pretty good, and although I'm not a big coffee fan, I would purchase this again. My husband was home when I tried it and he liked it as well.
 

Tums
 
Tums Freshers Antacid Cool Mint flavor. This is New from the Tums company. They state "Sometimes our favorite foods give us heartburn and food breath. Those are two things you want to get rid of fast. That's where TUMS Freshers comes into play. It's the only TUMS product that not only relieves heartburn fast, but also freshens breath at the same time." I also received a $1.00 off coupon that is on each of the two samples for a 25ct or larger off of the Tums.

*Man, where was this product when I was pregnant with my son... I probably could have used the freshens breath part of the tums too. :) I don't really need this product right now, but I am sure that someone I'm with could need this product, so it'll go into my purse.


Scotch-Brite
With these Scotch-Brite disinfecting wipes, you don't have to rinse the surface afterwards if food is going to touch afterwards. They are Botanical disinfecting wipes that kills 99.9% of household germs. It can be used around kids, pets, and food. It has a breeze scent. They are "suitable for use on all hard, nonporous surfaces where bacteria or unpleasant odors are a concern including: countertops, food preparation surfaces, floors, appliances, garbage cans, changing tables, highchairs, cribs, children's toys, toilet seats, and pet habitats." as stated on the back of the sample.
I also received a $1.00 off of 2 Scotch-Brite Botanical Disinfecting Wipes. I will be buying these products the next time that I go to the store. I use Disinfecting Wipes all the time around my kitchen, bathroom, and dinning room table.
 

Schick
 
One Schick Hydro Silk Disposable razor that is NEW to the Schick line.. Also a coupon for $2.00 off of any one Schick Hydro Silk Disposable Razor, and $2.00 off any one Schick Hydro 5 Disposable Razor. I will be buying those products because of course, both my husband and I do use razors. I like the feel of the razor, and I am actually in need of more razors so this came at a great time.


***I Paid $4.99 for the shipping of the following free item***
 
Episencial
 
 
 
 Use the code HEALTHYBABYTIME at checkout for $5 off + free shipping. This code is good till March 1, 2014 and is only for one time use by EACH customer!! So please tell your friends, because they'll receive the $5 off too!!!
 
Playful Wash (Shampoo + Body Cleanser)- This item is enriched with natural calendula + moisturizing tangerine oil. it is pH-balanced to be eye-safe and quick rinsing. Their website states that anyone can use this product and contains aloe for extra sensitive skin.
***UPDATE 8/12/13*** I have received the full size bottle before in my June Citrus Lane Box, and I still love it. It has the tangerine smell to it and I think that does it for me... It smells GREAT!!! It isn't harsh on my kids (6 years, 3 1/2 years, and 13 months)... I keep it in my diaper bag... Which really means the only time it gets used is when we're out of town. When my full sized bottle runs out and this sample runs out, I will be ordering more!!!
Soothing Cream- Organic creamy lotion for itchy bothered skin. This product doesn't have  a scent, and has a calming calendula and raspberry butter that restores moisture balance, while nourishing probiotics and neem oil fortify and soothe developing skin. This product is for all ages as well.
Snuggly Lotion- This product is for all ages as well, and is a silky light moisturizer for everyday use. This lotion locks in the skin's hydration with a non-greasy nourishing moisturizer. The soothing borage seed oil helps boos your skin's immunity while the avocado, flax, and primrose oils soften and condition your delicate skin. Smells like berries.
Mighty Shield-This product is for all ages, however, they state to check with your doctor for use with anyone under 6 months.  Mighty Shield  helps keeps little bugs and critters away. It uses your own skin's natural defense system to help keep your skin bug-free. It is a lightweight and non-greasy  moisturizer.

Sunny Sunscreen- The sunscreen is for all ages, and is UVA/UVB protection, water resistant for 80 minutes. of sprinkler--proof fun.  Apply 15 minutes before your sun exposure, then reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, immediately after towel drying or at least every 2 hours.

***I paid $5.95 for the shipping of the following FREE item***
Honest Company
 
(This link will give me a credit once you place an order that will go towards my own monthly subscription being cheaper... Thank you!!)
With their products and packaging they strive to be 100% plant-based and sustainably-sourced.  Source natural, organic, sustainably harvested, renewable, pure raw materials are used for their products. They have all their products and packaging that are made entirely of plant-based materials.
Their diaper are super-absorbent, Eco-friendly, and contoured fit. They have designs for both boys and girls from Newborn through size 6. They also have training pants for 2T/3T, 3T/4T, and 4T/5T, as well as reusable swim diapers in size S, M, L, XL.
They state their wipes are thicker, stronger, more absorbent, & softer medical-grade cloth.  They don't contain any parabens, chlorine, phenols, or risky chemicals!!!


 
Healing Balm- Soothing protection & relief for sensitive skin & diaper rash.  It is an all natural, certified organic oils + extracts + beeswax. It is versatile & safe to use on diaper rash, irritated skin, eczema, minor cuts & scraps... and much more. It is hypoallergenic, certified organic, vegetarian, biodegradable, pH Balanced, and naturally non-toxic.

Hand Soap- It is a natural, hydrating & soothing hand soap.  Safely clean, product and soften skin with essential organic lemongrass oil & grapefruit seed botanical extracts.  It is a low-suds lather. No harsh chemicals, all natural, non-toxic, biodegradable, pH Neutral.
Face + Body Lotion- Nourishing, calming, & hydrating moisturizer.  The organic olive, shea, jojoba & safflower oils hydrate & restore the skin's natural moisture balance. It is perfect for all skin types, sensitive, dry & allergy-prone. No harsh chemicals, hypoallergenic, vegan, plant-based, biodegradable, pH Balanced, Non-toxic.
Laundry Detergent- Superior hypoallergenic laundry care. It is naturally clean stubborn stains & life's unexpected messes without toxic chemicals or synthetic scents. it is perfect for babies & sensitive skin . It cleans stubborn stains, dirt, food, and life's unexpected messes. contains a neutral pH, it is non-irritating to skin & doesn't discolor clothing. Naturally Non-Toxic, hypoallergenic, biodegradable, pH Neutral.
Shampoo + Body Wash- Ultra-pure 2-in-1 hydrating hair and foaming body cleanser.  Tear-free, plant-based cleanser perfect for the whole family. It is pH Balanced to remove dirt without stripping natural oils and protects tender skin and delicate hair. Gentle enough for babies with sensitive skin, eczema, or cradle ap. Safe for Color-treated hair too. No harsh chemicals... it is hypoallergenic, tear-free, color-safe, vegan, biodegradable, pH balanced, naturally non-toxic.


I have a monthly subscription to the honest company and will be reviewing this item in the near future after I receive my items. They have several other items on their website beside what I have reviewed here and what I will review in my box. Check out their website and see what they have available for you and your family.

Until next time,

Cristina AKA Stay at Home Mom of 3

Thursday, July 25, 2013

Bluum Box, July 2013- 13 month old boy **UPDATED 8/4/13**

This is our second Bluum.co box. We have been happy with both of our boxes thus far. Bluum.co is a monthly subscription box for $24.95/ month. It is aimed towards the age and gender of your child. This one is for my 13 month old son. Please visit http://bluum.me/15veSZg to check it out and sign up for your own monthly subscription box. ***I do receive credit if you use my link***

Here is my YouTube video of this month's box


What's in this month's box???
Mum Mum- Baby Mum Apple
$3.49/ box of 24pks
At my local Walgreens
 
These are the first state in the Mum Mum line, and they have five different flavors, Original, Vegetable, Organic, Banana, and Apple. You can go to the following link to find out where you can purchase these at a location closest to you http://www.mummums.com/where-to-buy/.

My son enjoys these. While I was attempting to take the picture he kept trying to grab them. Since then he has eaten a few more packages of them and seems to really enjoy them. I will be buying these at my local Walgreens when he has finished this box, and will try the other flavors as well.


Weleda - Calendula Baby Cream
$12.00/ 2.6oz
 
"For babies with very sensitive and dry skin, this rich all natural baby cream protects, soothes and repairs. Forming a protective layer, our Calendula Baby Cream helps to prevent from excess moisture loss, soothe irritation and have baby giggling all day long." From Weleda's website.
 
I have not tried this product yet. It is not for diaper rash as I thought, but more of a product for intensive repair for your dry and very sensitive skin.
 

 


Peek-a-Boo Panda Baby and Toddler Toy
$7.99
 
 They have four different types, the Panda, Turtle, House, and Barn. They are made from hardwood and child safe dyes. The Peek-A-Boo's help children with fine motor skills. Their website suggests that you use them to teach your child(ren) to learn about colors, shapes, and features of the panda's face.
 
My son has the turtle that we received from our Citrus Lane box earlier this month. He loves to play with it and the Panda is no exception. My 3 year old loves to play with both the Peek-A-Boo's with my son. They are a popular toy in my house as the two boys that I watch who are 6 1/2 and almost 4 love to play with them as well.

Mossworld-Snack Trap (Orange-Cat)
$4.99 each
 *UPDATE* Okay, so I completely spaced out the coupon that they gave me with this product. DUH!! It tells me to go to their website. http://snacktrap.com/ It is still $4.99 each however.
 
 
The Snack Trap helps toddlers learn self feed out of a cup. The lid helps reduce the number of spills that happen when toddlers feed themselves. I'm not sure how many different varieties that they have as I can't find a Mossworld website. I have found them on several other websites where they sell baby/children's things. Since Toys-R-Us is a popular, well know store, I priced it from there.
 
My son has used similar products in the past and this one won't be any different. I love that I can put some cheerios or whatever bite size, dry, snack in the cup, put the lid on, and let him go. We've used it around the house, in the car, and at other people's houses. It comes in very handy at an age where they spill everything and love to be on the go. Would definitely recommend this product.
 
 

Nature's Bakery-Fig Bar (Raspberry)
 Found on their website that they sell them at my local WalMart. I'll have to locate them next time I go and let you know what their price is.
 
The Fig bar is a natural snack that is also kosher and Cholesterol-free. They have seven different flavors: Apple Cinnamon, Blueberry, Whole Wheat Fig, Peach Apricot, Raspberry, Vanilla Fig, and Vanilla Raspberry.
 
I haven't tried this product yet, but as I've stated before. I love raspberries, so I'm hoping that this product won't let me down!!   I just tried this product... I have to say that I enjoy these more than the other fig bars that you can buy in the larger package that aren't individually wrapped. As you can see there are two bars that come in the package. I keep forgetting to look for these at my local Wal-Mart, so hopefully I'll remember next time I go because I really did enjoy these. **08/03/2013**
 
The Individual package has 2 bars in it...
 
 
Here is the box.
 
**UPDATE 8/4/13** So after noticing that I hadn't even looked for these at Wal-Mart here in town, I remembered today!!! I found these down the isle that has pop tarts, cereal bars, gummy snacks, etc... As you can see in the picture there are six packs that have two in each pack. I found these for $2.50.  I found SIX different flavors: Raspberry, Apple Cinnamon, Blueberry, Fig, Peach Apricot, and then a new flavor... Strawberry. I of course bought the Raspberry because I enjoyed the sample that I had. I might migrate towards the other flavors over time and try them all. Who knows.
 
 

Child's Play "There Was An Old Lady Who Swollowed a Fly"
$4.49 each
*I received 2 by mistake*
 
I am sure there are plenty of places to buy this book, but I like amazon, so I quoted their price.  The front cover shows the fly inside her 'stomach', and as you go on with the book it also shows the next animal that she swallows. So, for example it will show a bird, with a spider in it's stomach, and a fly inside the spiders stomach. Great Visual for children.
 
I love reading to my children, and the enjoy me reading to them. I remember this song from when I was younger. Had no idea it was actually a book. So I can't wait to have my children learn the song as well. Now don't get me wrong, my Mother and I have actually sung this song to them while we were in the car on a trip, but neither of us have actually sat down to teach it to them. I think that seeing it in picture form will help them learn it.

Dapple Wipes (Toy& Surface Wipes)
$5.99 for 75 wipes
(Mine is the Travel Pack with 20 wipes)
 
   As stated from the Dapple website " Dapple Toy & Surface Wipes are perfect for cleaning what little hands touch - from toys to high chairs, swings and more. The all-natural, baby-safe formula removes sticky residue on highchairs, toys, and countertops. Dapple Toy & Surface Wipes are free of phthalates, parabens, SLS, SLES, & dyes and in line with latest medical research, are not antibacterial. They work like a thorough wash with soap and water - so baby can build up a strong immune system while enjoying clean surroundings. Just wipe and play. Contains 75 wipes. Fragrance-Free."
 
 
I have not used this product yet, but I use baby wipes for my son's high chair. So, I'll probably use these for that purpose. I am sure that they will come in very handy, and are probably better to use on the high chair than the baby wipes. I am not the type of parent that sanitizes or wipes down everything before my child plays with it. I figure that I don't wipe down everything before I use it and I know my mom didn't, since I'm still alive, I figure that my children will live through a few germs too. Now don't get me wrong, I won't let them play with something if it is physically dirty. I'm talking about how there probably are some other kids germs on something and I will let them play with it. They have to build up an immunity, and if I shelter them from those immunities, they'll end up sicker later in life.
 
 
Please feel free to leave any comments or suggestions.
 
Until Next Time,
 
Cristina AKA Stay At Home Mom Of 3
 

Monday, July 22, 2013

Goodies.co July 2013 box

Goodies.co is a monthly subscription box that has 5-8 items each month for only $7. I think that is totally worth it...

This is my first Goodies.co box. I enjoyed it because it had things that I wouldn't normally have bought, which in my eyes is a good thing. I may not have enjoyed everything, but that is why I subscribed to this service... So I can try different things.

Here's my YouTube video


Review of the Items


Multi-Grain Crisps (Original)
$2.99 each 4.5oz

They are gluten free, so although that isn't a good thing for me, it is for others out there. Not to bad considering they are gluten free. I have had other gluten free items which I wouldn't have another bite of. With these, I did eat them all. Tried different ways of eating them, because they were kind of bland. Wonder if they have other flavors besides original and what those taste like. I think these would be good with the spray can cheese. ***So, as I went to check out the website to see how much they were, they state "Enjoy them solo or with your dip, spread or cheese of choice." That is exactly what I did, I tried them solo, and with a dip, I don't have any spray cheese, or else I'd have tried that too.

Cosmo Creations (Caramel)
$8.94/6 pack
1.7 oz/pack

I loved these... Wish there was more in the bag. Still have more in the bag than what I have out in the picture. I think it reminds me more of Kellogg's Captain Crunch cereal which is a good thing because I really enjoyed that cereal when I was younger, but haven't tried it in a long time. I really could snack on these all night if I was given the chance. They are addictive... beware!!


Fruit Water (Black Raspberry)
$?.??/bottle
16.9 fluid oz
This is a taster box exclusive, so they are not currently selling this on their website.
Went shopping today at walmart, and right as I walked in I saw these... $1.00/bottle.

Their website states that this is "a smart calorie-free, vitamin-rich alternative to soda." As a pop (soda) lover, I was disappointed in this item. There is no real flavor to it and I wouldn't prefer this to pop (soda). They sell different alternatives to pop (soda) that I enjoy and will be choosing those over this item whenever I choose to.
My kids; however, enjoyed this. I didn't finish it, and let them try it with lunch today. They said they liked it and wanted more.


The Better Chip - Fresh Corn and Sea Salt Chips
$5.98/2pack
6.4oz/pack

The other flavors are: Red Pepper and Salsa Fresca Chips, Jalapeño and Sea Salt Chips, Sweet Onion and White Cheddar Chips, & Spinach and Kale with Sea Salt Chips.
These were with good. I really enjoyed them, and wished that there were more. They are like other corn chips out there but with sea salt instead. I found them addictive, and I plan on buying these again. I put a quarter on one of the chips so you can compare the size.

Gimbal's - Cherry Lovers
$2.99 each
9oz


There are 9 flavors in the package: Wild Cherry, Kiwi Cherry, Cherry Vanilla, Chocolate Cherry, Cherry Cheesecake, Cherry Daiquiri, Bing Cherry, Black Cherry, & Cherry Cola.
 Just like I thought, I loved these... So will be buying these again. you can tell which ones you are eating. Placed a quarter under one of them so you can compare sizes.

Until next time,

Cristina, AKA Stay at Home Mom of 3

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Citrus Lane July 2013-1 year old Boy **UPDATED 8/3/13**

I have been excited to receive my box this month. I received my e-mail telling me it was on its way, and have been looking at the doorstep for it. LOL
Citrus Lane is a subscription box aimed towards newborn-5 years old. The items are geared to suite their gender and age. It is $25 per month, and the products you received are worth more than the $25.
My son is 1 year old, and enjoyed his box from last month, so I can't wait to see how he likes this month's box.

If you would like to check out Citrus Lane and subscribe yourself check out my referral link HERE. I do receive credit for your purchase. THANK YOU!!!

Here is my YouTube video of my son opening up this months box.




The Products



SUMO Snack Stacker from ZoLi

There are three containers that hold up to 8oz. They screw onto each other and can even be added to more. Retails for $18.00 at zolibaby.com.

I like these. I usually have the puffs or some other toddler snack that comes in its own container/package. I can bring Cheerios or some type of fruit with us for him to snack on now. THESE WILL GO IN MY DIAPER BAG!!! **UPDATE 8/3/13** I used these on our last road trip to put some grapes in. The kids absolutely loved them. Was very handy having them already portioned out and in a container that I can reuse... and have reused for more grapes. LOL


Cool It Buddy Instant Cold Pack from Me4Kidz


This is a 2pk of single use cold packs. Make sure that all the contents are on the bottom, and squeeze making sure to rupture the activator inside. Next, you shake it to distribute it to make the pack cold. Retails for $2.99 for the 2pk at shop.me4kidz.com.

I don't think that I'll put these in my diaper bag, but I think that they'll end up in my car. Unless I head to the park that is 3 blocks from my house, I'm usually in the car, so what better place to have them since we have reusable ones in our fridge and freezer. **UPDATE 8/3/13** These are in my car, haven't used them yet; although, I've about had to a few times. :(


Nibbly Fingers from Ella's Kitchen

These are 100% organic, are free from preservatives, concentrates, juice, hydrogenated fat and artificial ingredients. They are easy for my son to eat. I do however tear of a small bite for him to eat; although, I'm confident that he can probably bite them off himself since he does have his front 8 teeth. They come in 4 different flavors; Cranberry + Acai, Bananas + Raisins, Mangos + Carrots, and Apples + Strawberries. They retail for $3.99, $4.99, or $5.39 (Not sure why they are different pricing) for the package of 5 at ellaskitchen.elsstore.com if you use the code EKCITRUS, you'll receive $5 off when you purchase $25 or more through 12/31/13.

Like I said in the video, we received a box of these in our Bluum box (the Apples + Strawberries) and my son absolutely loved them. So when he saw these he kept trying to grab one... even after I stopped recording. I did give him one and he wanted another. He loves them that much. I have purchased the baby food squeezable pouches from Walgreens in the past for him, so I do like Ella's kitchen. I hadn't realized that we've tried other products till I looked them up online. :) Once we run out of these, I will be buying him more since he does enjoy them that much, and they seem to be pretty healthy. **UPDATE 8/3/13** Unfortunately I can't find these locally. I can however purchase them at Target when I go and see my husband in Wyoming. When we move up there they will just be across town... My son absolutely loves these and I have a small stock of them for him.
 


Peek-a-Boo Turtle from Melissa & Doug

This toy is crafted of wood and has child-safe dyes. The legs and head snap underneath. Your child should be able to learn object permanence and hand eye coordination naturally through play with this turtle. Retails for $9.99 at melissaanddoug.com.

My son kept trying to play with this turtle and my 3 year old kept taking it from him and playing with him. Looks like a quality made product that should last with children playing rough with it. Not sure if this will end up in the diaper bag or in his box of toys... but I am leaning more towards the diaper bag since it is small enough to not take up much room but will keep him entertained.

 
Postagram from Sincerely Inc.
 
You can turn your pictures into postcards, and you can do it from your smartphone, which makes it easy and convenient. You can pop out the picture (Like the one with the two kids and the beach ball above). I receive 10 free postcards from Postagram which retail for $9.90.
 
You have to sign up for an account and pay before you even get started, so I didn't really check it out. (didn't use my promo code either) I'll have to check this out later, because it seems like a good quality picture. Defiantly better quality than a normal postcard or even a regular picture... that is if what I received is what they send out.
 
 
The box retails for $44.87 (with the $9.90 credit for the 10 free postcards). So, I really think that I received my $25 worth in this months box.
 

Until next time,
 
Cristina AKA Stay at Home Mom of 3

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Little Passports US Edition. 1st box

Little Passports is a monthly subscription box that follows Sam and Sofia. In this case (US edition) we follow them to two different states each month. The US edition is aimed towards 7-12 year olds and is $11.95/month.

Here is my YouTube video of the unboxing...


My step-daughter seemed excited for it. I think a large part of that was because my 3 year old daughter had received the World Edition in the mail the previous week, so she couldn't wait to see what the US Edition was all about.

Here is what was included in the US Edition


EXPANDING FILE
So, it doesn't exactly expand, but it looks just like one. This is what everything comes in, and where you can keep all of your things stored that will be coming in the future.
US FIELD GUIDE
Inside it hast a list of all 50 states that you are supposed to mark off which ones you've been to. There is a "My Profile" page where you put a self portrait picture of yourself, your Name, birthdate, and hometown. An about me page asks about where you live, the capital of your state, your favorite thing about living in your city, how many of the 50 states you've visited, what state you want to visit and why, and which family/friends live in other states. An "Exploring the USA" page follows, which has you use the map to find the answer to the different questions. Next is a "Photo Scavenger Hunt" which you will use your CAMERA to take photos of the different items/places/ etc. Finally, you'll come to the last 50 pages which are all the same (Wonder why. LOL) You'll receive stickers with each state and they are of the state, state animal, state seal, state bird, state flower, and then the state flag. They have a few questions that you answer after you've learned about that state.
USA SCRATCH BOOK
Inside you find 6 USA scratch pages that are of the Oregon Trail, Symbols of the USA, Famous Landmarks, National Parks, Food in the USA, and Tornado Alley. There is a blank page where you are supposed to draw your hometown, or something from your hometown anyways. The last page is a USA sticker page. Yes they are stickers!!
MAP
Then there is the map. It is a big map I'd say close to 21" by 28" or close to that without taking out the measuring tape. It shows all 50 states and some landmarks or different items are located on that map that make you think of that particular state.

Both of my daughters are looking forward to their next box from Little Passports, as they have both said they wish it were next month already. I will post the pictures that we take on the Photo Scavenger Hunt. I am buying an extra disposable camera for my 3 year old because I know she will want to take her own pictures as we go on the scavenger hunt together.

If you'd like to receive $10 off your order, and you've never ordered from Little Passports, comment with your e-mail address and I'll send you an e-mail so we can both receive $10 off our next order.

Until next time,

Cristina AKA Stay at Home Mom of 3

Monday, July 15, 2013

Redbox Instant by Verizon

I am a BzzAgent and was recently offered a campaign from them to receive a free month of Redbox Instant by Verizon and to review it for them. (You too can receive a free month if you just sign up on their website http://www.redboxinstant.com) No, you don't have to be a Verizon carrier to get this either. Anyone can!!

Here are some key points about Redbox Instant by Verizon that my campaign stated
My complaints/complements are in color after the key points.


  • The $8/month subscription gives you the best value for your bucks: 4 DVD credits every month (1 DVD credit = 1 night rental) to use at over 35,000 Redbox locations nationwide PLUS a streaming library of movie hits
    • Okay, so it is only a penny more than what I pay for my Netflix subscription, and they offer me 4 free DVD credits a month. I live in a town of about 15,000 and have 4 Redbox locations, so they are relatively accessible.

  • You don’t have to be a Verizon customer to sign up for the service, but you do need high-speed internet access to use it
    • Understandable. Probably need that for Netflix too.

  • You can report any service issues via the Help Center at redboxinstant.com
    • Didn't need their help, so really don't have an opinion... Hope they answer you relatively fast though.

  • Instantly stream Hollywood hits to most internet-connected devices, including smartphones (iPhone and Android), tablets, computers, Xbox 360s, and select Samsung Smart TVs and Blu-ray players and LG Smart TVs
    • I was able to stream on my Android smartphone; HOWEVER, it stunk!!! It kept pausing and rebuffing. I tried it on my WiFi, and using my 4G internet on my phone. Still rebuffed after only a few minutes of viewing. Tablet. I have a Kindle Fire HD. Can't stream it on there. I can with Netflix FYI... Xbox 360, Smart TVs, Blue-Ray player, LG Smart TVs I do have an Xbox 360, but I don't have it hooked up to the internet. My blue ray player is only a couple years old and can't play anything from Redbox.
    • I do have a Wii, and a Play Station 3. I was disappointed that I couldn't watch Redbox instant on either of those. We use those regularly to watch Netflix on and so I assumed that Redbox should be able to be on both of those devices as well. Maybe in the future?!?! Who knows, but as of right now they don't.

  • The Redbox Instant by Verizon app is limited to certain devices, but is not needed to stream content

    • So yeah... I call BS on this one. I tried to stream a movie on my Kindle Fire HD. I found a movie I wanted to watch, I clicked on "WATCH NOW" and then was directed to this. So if they state that the Redbox Instant app is not needed to stream content, then why was I directed to this site that states "The Redbox Instant app is needed to play on this device." 
  • You can buy and rent movies digitally without a subscription, including today’s newest releases
    • That's nice... On Netflix I can watch "Little Black Book for FREE!!!!! But I have to buy it on Redbox Instant for $9.99. Straight A's is FREE on Netflix, and $4.99 or get it at the Kiosk with Redbox. So, yeah, I had problems even finding several other movies that I can watch on Netflix.
  • You can browse Redbox locations and reserve movies at the box of your choice using the app, too!
    • I already knew where the Redbox locations were in my town, but I used it to see where different Redbox locations were where my mom lives and even where my husband is currently working.
    • I have reserved movies at a Redbox location, and didn't have any problems with it. I even reserved some from my computer and didn't have any problems with that either. The whole process goes really smoothly.



    There are several movies that I tried to locate and couldn't find for Redbox Instant. My children also like to watch TV shows and TV series; however, both of those can not be located on the Redbox Instant site. This was a complete negative for me, and was one of the major key points in why I will be canceling my Redbox Instant subscription. My children are the ones that really watch the majority of Netflix. Yes, I do have my shows and movies that I watch along with my husband, but there are SO many learning shows that my kids will watch and enjoy on Netflix.
    I don't know if I will ever subscribe in the future... Maybe if they include TV shows and series, who knows. But what I do know is that after my free month of Redbox instant, it will be canceled and I will continue on with my Netflix subscription.

    Until Next Time,

    ~Cristina AKA Stay At Home Mom

    Wednesday, July 10, 2013

    Little Passports World Edition, Box 1

    Little Passports World Edition, Box 1

    My 3 year old daughter is receiving the monthly subscription. It is $11.95/month, and is geared towards 5-10 year olds. Little Passports is about friends Sam and Sofia as they travel around the world on their magical scooter. (There is also a USA edition that is geared towards 7-12 olds. My 6 year old daughter is receiving that monthly subscription box. Once we receive that in the mail I will be doing a review on that one as well.)


    THE BOX ITSELF
    The first box doesn't have any adventures from any of the countries. It is just the starter pack really. Your child will receive their suitcase which they will be able to put stickers on it each month from each country. It really is a good size, about the size of an 8 1/2 by 11 piece of paper and I'd say 3-4 inches high. You are supposed to put all of the things that Sam and Sofia send you each month in there.

    INSIDE THE BOX
    A passport- Inside you place a picture of them and fill out some questions. They are really easy questions, such as which countries your child would like to visit, what they would like to do when they visit another country, where you the parent would like to visit/have visited, and why you like that country/why you visited that country. There are places for you to put the country stamps (Stickers) that Sam and Sofia send you.
    Boarding Pass- You have a secret code which allows you to go to the little passports website, where they have different activities and games for your child.
    Picture- Each month you will receive a picture of Sam and Sofia in that country. In the first box Sam and Sofia are in the garage. It is an actual picture that you can print off at any local Wal-Mart, Walgreens, etc.
    Map- There is a world map where you can put stickers from where Sam and Sofia have visited. It is a big map I'd say close to 21" by 28" or close to that without taking out the measuring tape.
    Activity Page- There is a front and back page for the child to fill out. Younger children will probably need some help completing. You have to refer to the map for some of the questions. Once you complete the activity, it gives you a hint as to where Sam and Sofia plan to visit next.



    I think that my daughter will enjoy the adventures that Sam and Sofia are going on. She enjoys stickers, so that will definitely be a plus for her.

    If you'd like to receive $10 off your order, and you've never ordered from Little Passports, comment with your e-mail address and I'll send you an e-mail so we can both receive $10 off our next order.

    Until Next Time,

    Cristina AKA Stay at Home Mom of 3