Tuesday, December 12, 2017

Game of Thrones:The Complete Seventh Season #Review

The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.




The record-breaking phenomenon is back with a season that proved to be well worth the wait! Action-packed from start to finish with the series’ most epic battles yet, the HBO® drama series Game of Thrones: The Complete Seventh Season will be available for Digital Download September 25th and on Blu-Ray™ and DVD December 12th. The latest season of Game of Thrones featured the most-watched premiere and finale episodes in HBO history, and the series remains the most-awarded drama series in Emmy® history, with 109 nominations to date and winning the 2015 and 2016 trophy for Best Drama Series.

Available December 12th, The Blu-ray™ and DVD sets are packed with exclusive new bonus content including audio commentaries on every episode, two new behind-the-scenes featurettes, and, for a limited time only, a bonus disc containing Conquest & Rebellion: An Animated History of the Seven Kingdoms, a 45-minute, never-before-seen extension of the Clio Award-winning History & Lore features included on previous individual Blu-ray™ season releases. Narrated by some of the series’ biggest stars including Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (Jaime Lannister) and Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark), the companion piece to season 7 reveals the fascinating story of how the world of Westeros as we know it came to be– including what happened the last time a Targaryen invaded the realm!

Available September 25th, the Digital Download release for Game of Thrones: The Complete Seventh Season includes an exclusive new “Creating the North and Beyond” featurette that takes fans behind the scenes of Jon Snow’s epic trek north of The Wall and his latest battle with the Night King’s army.



Are you a fan of the Games of Thrones television series? I know a lot of you are because it is a very popular show.  

My husband is more of a fan than I am. He has read some of the books but I haven't yet so I have no idea if this tv series stays true to the books or not. 

Anyway, I did enjoy season 7. It isn't my favourite season but I still enjoyed it and find it entertaining and so much goes on in the series that it does get you to keep watching.  The battles were fantastic, the story great and like I said there is so much going on that you have to watch every single episode.

I know my husband and I will watch the series so far again in the future.  Only problem now is we have to wait until 2019 (?) for season 8th.

I give this 4 out of 5.


Game of Thrones:The Complete Seventh Season is now available to purchase online and in stores near you.

Tuesday, December 5, 2017

The Deuce: The Complete First Season #Review

The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.


Available for Digital Download November 27, 2017;

On Blu-ray™ and DVD February 13, 2018

Catch up on the show that The Wall Street Journal calls “a spectacularly appealing enterprise,” when The Deuce is available for Digital Download on November 27, 2017 and on Blu-RayTM and DVD February 13, 2018. Set during the early 1970s in New York City's Times Square, The Deuce, starring James Franco and Maggie Gyllenhaal, gives viewers an up-close look at the gritty world of sex and crime, as the porn industry begins its climb to legitimacy, cultural permanence, and billion-dollar profitability. 

This eight-episode series, which has a 93% Certified Fresh rating from Rotten Tomatoes, is  “Vibrant…relentlessly interesting.” (The New York Times). The DVD and Blu-RayTM include exciting bonus content including exclusive audio commentaries from the cast and crew, including James Franco (Oscar®  nominee for  127 Hours), Maggie Gyllenhaal (Oscar®  nominee for  Crazy Heart), and David Simon (The Wire, Treme, Show Me a Hero), cast interviews on this unique period in history, and more. The Blu-rayTM and DVD release also include a free Digital Download copy.

MY THOUGHTS

I admit I had never even heard of this show prior to receiving a digital copy of the first season but this show sounded interesting so I  decided to give this show a chance even though it isn't something I would watch on tv. 

I did enjoy The Deuce season one.  It is very entertaining.  The cast does a fantastic job and I admit that I was hooked into this show from the very beginning.  

I am giving The Deuce season one a 4 out of 5. 

Friday, December 1, 2017

The Deuce: The Complete First Season Digital Copy #Giveaway

The Deuce: The Complete First Season

Available for Digital Download November 27, 2017;

On Blu-ray™ and DVD February 13, 2018

Catch up on the show that The Wall Street Journal calls “a spectacularly appealing enterprise,” when The Deuce is available for Digital Download on November 27, 2017 and on Blu-RayTM and DVD February 13, 2018. Set during the early 1970s in New York City's Times Square, The Deuce, starring James Franco and Maggie Gyllenhaal, gives viewers an up-close look at the gritty world of sex and crime, as the porn industry begins its climb to legitimacy, cultural permanence, and billion-dollar profitability. 

This eight-episode series, which has a 93% Certified Fresh rating from Rotten Tomatoes, is  “Vibrant…relentlessly interesting.” (The New York Times). The DVD and Blu-RayTM include exciting bonus content including exclusive audio commentaries from the cast and crew, including James Franco (Oscar®  nominee for  127 Hours), Maggie Gyllenhaal (Oscar®  nominee for  Crazy Heart), and David Simon (The Wire, Treme, Show Me a Hero), cast interviews on this unique period in history, and more. The Blu-rayTM and DVD release also include a free Digital Download copy.


The Giveaway

Two (2) winners will receive a digital copy code of the full season of The Deuce. 
US AND CANADA ONLY

Monday, November 27, 2017

Making Travel More Enjoyable for Your Dog



Some dogs seem to be full of wanderlust – approaching each new adventure with confidence and gusto. Such dogs are a joy to travel with! However, we are not all so lucky to have canine companions that look forward to leaving the comforts of home.

When our pets dread hitting the road, it can hamper travel and close doors on opportunities to enjoy each other’s company. Whether you have a dog that is already anxious about travel, or you have a puppy that you want to train to enjoy new experiences, this article will explore some techniques to get your buddy in the mood to explore.



1. Associate car rides with good stuff.

Most journeys start in the car. If the only time your pooch gets in the car ends at the vet, then you are reinforcing a negative association with travel, priming your dog to start every trip on a sour note. Let’s face it, no one thinks going to the doctor is very fun, so why would we expect our dogs to look forward to that?

One of the most important things you can do to help your dog appreciate travel is to associate the car with as many positive experiences as you can.

  • Make excuses to take your pal somewhere fun like the dog park or a pet store.
  • Jump in the car and drive around the block with a handful of treats and reward often along the short route before returning home.
  • Practice getting in and out of the car using clicker training to increase their confidence around the car.

2. Add canine adventure to every trip away from home.

When you are on the road, does your furry companion spend most of the time in a crate at the hotel? You can probably imagine this is not the kind of vacation that your fur buddy is going to look forward too.

When you are planning your trip, take some time to research dog friendly activities at your destination. It is particularly helpful to choose a few activities that will give your dog vigorous exercise so they can blow off some of that stress energy and relax back at the hotel.


For your next trip, look for:

  • Nearby dog parks.
  • Hiking trails.
  • Pet stores that welcome visiting pets.
  • Dog friendly restaurants.
  • Dog days at local public swimming pools.
  • Pet friendly attractions.

3. Bring all the comforts of home.

Make sure that you pack with your pup in mind. In particular, think about smells, comforts and favorite toys. When your dog has some familiar things in their environment, it can give them a sense of safety. In addition, be sure to leave some items of your clothing nearby if you have to leave your furry friend alone at the hotel.

Consider packing:

  • At least one blanket or bed your buddy sleeps on.
  • Food and water dishes you use every day.
  • 2-5 favorite toys.
  • The crate if your pal is kennel trained.

4. Keep your own stress levels in check.

One of the most important things you can do to help your canine companion enjoy travel is to bring a good attitude to the experience. Dogs are extremely in tune with the emotional states of their pack leader. If you are bringing stress to the situation, then your pup is going to pick up on that and worry right along with you.

In some cases, this can be a downward spiral where a kind of stress feedback loop can really derail an enjoyable trip. Remember that you are setting the tone. Try to stay present and enjoy the journey for your dog’s sake.

5. Consult professionals if the issues are too severe for you to fix.

There is no harm in seeking help when a problem is beyond your skillset to address. Luckily, there are professionals that can help you with severe cases of pet travel anxiety.

There are two great reasons to start with your vet. The first is that they are able to prescribe safe and effective tranquilizers that can be an effective tool in addressing travel anxiety. Although pills are not a magic permanent solution, they can come in very handy for an emergency situation where travel is imperative.

Second, your veterinarian can probably recommend the right professional dog trainer in your locality. It can sometimes be difficult to find a great trainer that specializes in the kind of issues your dog is having. Your veterinarian can more than likely give you some great leads.

We hope this article has inspired you to help your furry friend get the most out of your travel adventures! Travel anxiety is something that can be addressed so that you and your dog can make the most of exploring new places.



Author Bio

Mat Coulton has worked with dogs for just under a decade and is the founder of WileyPup.com, a doggy lover’s website that provides great tips and advice for pet parents everywhere.



Sunday, November 19, 2017

The Royal Chef at Home by Darren McGrady #Cookbook #Review

The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.



Darren McGrady, former personal chef to Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana, has curated and created delicious, easy recipes that will add an elegant touch to any meal without requiring hours of labouring in the kitchen. 

Darren's Easy Seasons is perfect for entertaining no matter what the time of year, including midday lunches and brunches, teas, indoor and outdoor sit-down and buffet dinners, and cocktail parties. The book is also organized by season with events including a Children's Easter Egg Roll, Valentine's Day for Two, a proper Sunday dinner, Christmas open house, and Thanksgiving. 
Darren also provides tips on ingredients, substitutions, and alternatives, making this book an easy but comprehensive "go-to" party-planning resource. Includes "Notes on Entertaining" to help lighten the load and make even the largest celebrations go off without a hitch.


About the Author:


Darren McGrady was personal chef to Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana and Princes’ William and Harry for fifteen years and has cooked for five US Presidents. He is an author, culinary consultant and public speakers and runs Eating Royally, Fine Dining Catering Company in Dallas, Texas. His first cookbook titled ‘Eating Royally; Recipes and Remembrances from a Palace Kitchen’ is now in sixth print with all of his advance and royalties donated to the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation.



Here are photos of pages from the book:




Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins
Sounds and looks so good.  I know I will be making them in the near future.

Chipotle, Kale & Turkey Meatballs Soup
Sounds good and looks good. I can't wait to try it.





Roasted Turkey With pan Juices.
I am going to try this for Christmas dinner this year.  



MY THOUGHTS

I am not big on cooking. I mean I get by with basic cooking but I usually stick to stuff I already know how to make and that is simple so I usually find cookbooks a little daunting. Needless to say, I was a little hesitant about The Royal Chef at Home but I am happy to tell you that most of the recipes are ones I know I can make and I do have a few I can't wait to try.   


 This book is done with a relaxing combination of talking and cooking. 

I like that most of the recipes are things most people who are not chefs can make the recipes at home and that the recipes are easy to understand.

I do highly recommend this book and I think it would make a great gift for those who love cooking. 

I give this 5 out of 5  


Tuesday, November 14, 2017

Batman: Gotham By Gaslight

BATMAN HUNTS JACK THE RIPPER
IN TURN-OF-THE-CENTURY GOTHAM CITY AS
WARNER BROS. HOME ENTERTAINMENT AND
DC ENTERTAINMENT PRESENT
BATMAN: GOTHAM BY GASLIGHT
COMING FEBRUARY 6, 2018 TO
Ultra HD BLU-RAY™ combo pack,
BLU-RAY™ COMBO PACK AND DVD 




Batman: Gotham By Gaslight takes place at the turn of the century as America’s continued industrial revolution is to be showcased at a World’s Fair hosted by Gotham City. But while the world prepares to witness the glittery glory of Gotham’s technological advances, there is a killer loose in the city’s darkest shadows. Preying on the city’s women, this killer is as precise as he is cruel. As Police Commissioner James Gordon tries to calm the fears of Gotham’s citizens regarding the butcher called Jack the Ripper, the masked vigilante Batman enacts his own detective work with the help of confident, capable Selina Kyle – to stop the Ripper’s murderous spree. Witness a world in flames as the notorious serial killer’s controlled savagery meets the calculated stealth of the Dark Knight.



Sunday, November 12, 2017

Westworld: Season One *Review*

The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.






Based on the film written by best-selling author Michael Crichton (ER, Jurassic Park films), Westworld is a dark odyssey about the dawn of artificial consciousness and evolution of sin. Set at the intersection of the near future and a reimagined past, the series explores a world in which every human appetite, no matter how noble or depraved, can be indulged. 







 
MY THOUGHTS

First off I had heard only of the title of the show and that it is a Science Fiction Western and that right there got me interested because I love Sci-fi and western movies and tv shows so for me it sounded wonderful.

My husband and I start watching this on Blu-ray on Friday and you know what? We couldn't stop watching and ended up binge-watching the entire show on the weekend. 

I love the drama in the show and of course the science fiction aspect and the Western.  The story is great and got my attention from the very first episode.   

Great acting and special effects.


This show is one I know my husband and I will be watching again in the future and we will be making sure to watch season 2 as soon as we can. 

I give Westworld season 1 a 4 out of 5. 

Sunday, October 22, 2017

CozyPhones Product Review

The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.



I recently reviewed this cute froggy headband to review from CozyPhones.  Of course I do not have any kids but I gave it to the neighbour's kid.




CozyPhones is a family business based in the U.S.A and they make headband headphones for children and adult.  They have a bunch of cute CozyPhones for kids, sleep headphones for adults and lycra mesh ones for those who are active.

I asked Micheal (neighbour's child) what he thought about the froggy CozyPhones headband and he said he loves it. He likes that it is a frog and he said that it works great.  He is 6 and his mom tells me he uses it constantly when he watches videos on his tablet or playing games.

The headphones go on your ears. I just put one side on my ear just to see how the quality is and I am very impressed.  Also, you can remove the headphones from the band so you can wash the band if needed.

Do I recommend?  From the sound quality and the quality of the band, I do recommend.  Also, I think I will be buying myself a sleep CozyPhones in the near future because I have a difficult time sleeping and I like listening to audiobooks or music in bed to help me fall asleep.  regular headphones and earbuds just don't work so well and they can be painful.

I give this 5 out of 5


Tuesday, October 17, 2017

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES *Review*

The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.



The final adventure begins. From Disney and Producer Jerry Bruckheimer comes the harrowing and thrilling PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES. Set sail with Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) as deadly ghost sailors, led by the terrifying Captain Salazar (Javier Bardem), escape from the Devil's Triangle bent on killing every pirate at sea -- notably Jack -- in an epic story packed with humour, suspense and amazing special effects!

MY THOUGHTS

I have been a fan of the Pirate Of The Caribbean movies since the very beginning.  I have seen them all in theatre and I own all the movie on Blu-ray. Yes I have watched all of them a bunch of times and I know I will watch them all again and again in the future because I enjoy the movies. 

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES I found to start a little slow at first but after a while, the story picks up and got me enjoying this movie.  

I loved the special effects, the acting and this story.  It has cheesy humour just like the previous movies.

I give this 4 out of 5.

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES is now availble in stores now

Friday, October 6, 2017

LEGO Ninjago Masters of Spinjitzu Season 7 DVD Review

Warner Bros. Home Entertainment provided me with a free copy of the DVD I reviewed in this Blog Post. The opinions I share are my own




It is shortly after the Day of the Departed and all has returned to normal in Ninjago. While the Ninjas are back at the museum cleaning up the mess they left behind, Master Wu waits alone at his old monastery. Soon, there is a flash of light and a stranger mysteriously appears who turns out to be an old enemy. Wu and the stranger engage in an epic battle which we soon learn is the finale of a fight that began forty years ago between the Elemental Masters and the Hands of Time. Who are the Hands of Time? Krux and Acronix, two fallen Elemental Masters who could once control time itself before Wu and Garmadon barely managed to strip them of their time-shifting powers and transfer them into four time blades! Wu and Garmadon sent the Blades into a temporal vortex and Krux and Acronix followed, leading our heroes to think the threat was over in Season 7 of LEGO NINJAGO: Masters of Spinjitzu.








Own it on DVD October 3rd, 2017


MY THOUGHTS

I watched this the other day and well just like any of the others Lego cartoons this show is very entertaining for young and old.

The story lines are fantastic, voice acting and the animation are absolutely wonderful.  

If you have a child/granchild/ niece or nephew who just loves anything Lego they will love this one.  

I give this 5 out of 5. 

Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Wonder Woman *Review*

The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.




Before she was Wonder Woman, she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained to be an unconquerable warrior.  Raised on a sheltered island paradise, when an American pilot crashes on their shores and tells of a massive conflict raging in the outside world, Diana leaves her home, convinced she can stop the threat. Fighting alongside man in a war to end all wars, Diana will discover her full powers…and her true destiny.




Own Wonder Woman on Ultra HD Blu-ray, 3D Blu-ray, Blu-ray and DVD on September 19 or Own It Now on Digital HD!

MY THOUGHTS

When I heard that there was going to be a Wonder Woman movie I was excited but also worried that it wouldn't be done right.  I have been enjoying DC movies lately but I have had a few issues with the last few so I was worried.

I am happy to say that I very much enjoyed Wonder Woman and I had no issues at all with the story line or any of the characters. Heck I liked it so much that I have seen this movie 3 times.  

I can't wait until the next film that will feature Wonder Woman.  

I am giving Wonder Woman 5 out of 5. 

Wednesday, September 13, 2017

Supernatural Season 12 on DVD And Blu-ray *Review*

The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

Last season, Sam and Dean Winchester (Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles) faced their greatest challenge yet: the all-powerful Darkness, better known as the sister of God. Freed from her prison by Dean, she threatened all of creation, until God (with the help of Sam, Dean, Castiel and Crowley), made amends with her. Before they left Earth, however, they restored Sam & Dean’s mother, Mary Winchester, to life.
In Season 12, the Winchesters must not only contend with an escaped Lucifer and the British Men of Letters (who’ve come to end their hunting days), but they’ll also have to relearn what it is to be a family again after all these years.


MY THOUGHTS

I have been a fan of Supernatural since the very beginning. I don't get to watch this show on television because I am old and am usually in bed by the time the show airs on tv so I wait until it is on DVD to watch it.

I very much enjoyed season 12. I think it is one of the best seasons so far. It has been action packed and so very entertaining. I love the jokes and the music and the season finale... Well, it was a bit disappointing. Not the best they have had but I still can't wait for the next season.


Overall I give season 12,  4 out of 5. 

Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Silicon Valley®: The Complete Fourth Season *Review*


The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.


Change is in the air in Season 4 of Silicon Valley as the Pied Piper guys pursue their video-chat app, PiperChat, but Richard (Thomas Middleditch) has a hard time letting go of his dream to put his algorithm to better use. As Dinesh (Kumail Nanjiani) flirts with notoriety while Gilfoyle (Martin Starr) looks on in amusement, Erlich (T.J. Miller) searches for his next big break, Jared (Zach Woods) attempts to pivot with the company, and Big Head (Josh Brener) enters the world of academia. Over at Hooli, Gavin (Matt Ross) finds himself threatened by Jack Barker (Stephen Tobolowsky), while Monica (Amanda Crew) struggles to bounce back at Raviga after her fallout with Laurie (Suzanne Cryer). Sharp, irreverent and hilarious, Silicon Valley continues to lambast the self-important world of tech in a season that finds the Pied Piper guys looking to leave their mark, even as they continue to fumble along the road to success.

You can now purchase this online or in stores near you.

MY THOUGHTS

I do watch some comedy shows but very few.
 Silicon Valley sounded interesting so I decided to give it a shot.

Now I admit I have not watched the previous seasons so I can't say how good the previous seasons were but I have to say that this show is just OK. I did find it funny at parts but this show just isn't for me.

I know it is a show that many of you might like but for me, it just isn't something I would ever watch again.


I give this 3 out of 5

Thursday, September 7, 2017

Planning On A Home Remodel?

When is the moment when a homeowner knows they have to plan a remodel? It could be when another child is born and the need for a new bathroom becomes crystal clear. It could be when a student moves back home, and it’s obvious a new bathroom and a kitchen makeover would be helpful. It might just be the day that the bedroom color scheme looks tired. No matter what it is, when a home needs a remodel, it’s important to know that there are ways to plan for one successfully.

Getting a Loan


Many homeowners pay for a remodel by borrowing out of the equity in their home. There are many low interest loans available today, and this can be a sound way to add value to a home, without greatly increasing mortgage payments. If financing can be acquired, a home remodel plan can begin.



Making a Plan


It’s important to really plan for that dream house remodel. Many online sites and design magazines offer visuals that show what certain materials and color schemes look like in a room. This can be a great place to find ideas and also find ways to problem solve in certain areas in a home. Once a plan for the remodel is decided on, it’s wise to look for an experienced contractor who can help turn those ideas into reality.


Checking Online


It used to be more difficult to find a good contractor, but today with all the online sites available with listings of local contractors, that job is much easier. Sites offer information about contractors with referrals and references, as well as examples of past projects. After reviewing listings, a free phone consultation can be arranged with a good candidate. This talk gives the homeowner a chance to work through their ideas, like how to build stairs for a deck or build out a garage, and make a solid plan for improving their home. If the contractor is the right fit, an agreement should be made and the plans should commence.


Yes, a home remodel is a big project, but if planned well, it can be a great way to add to the enjoyment and value of a home. 


Friday, August 18, 2017

Adagio Teas Fandom Blends Review

The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

I don't drink tea all the time but I love to drink yummy flavoured teas on rainy or snowy days while I am relaxing and reading a book.

I recently tried Adagio Teas. I got to try some of the Fandom Signature. There are different sizes. There is the sample in, the 3oz pouch, 5 oz tin and the sampler set tin.

Here is what I chose:

I am a Doctor Who fan and the tenth Doctor is my favourite so I had to get the Doctor Who Ten Fandom Signature Blend.
 I got the 3oz. pouch . I do love this one. It has a nice taste and I love the chocolate and hint of banana flavour.  This one will be a great one to drink on cold winter days while I am reading or binge watching shows.  I think I might be purchasing this one in the future.



I love Supernatural so of course I have to try one of the Supernatural teas Adagio has.  I couldn't decide which one I wanted but I pick Castiel sample tin.  This is chocolate chai, honeybush vanilla and chamomile.  I like this one with a bit of sugar and a bit of milk.   I will be purchasing this one in the future.



I have been a fan of Gilmore Girls so when I saw they had some Gilmore Girls blends I just had to try one.  I got the sample tin of Rory. I very much like this one but it is my least favourite one in the of the ones I have tried so far. Maybe I just didn't let it steep long enough. It is so good with a bit of sugar and a bit of milk.

When you order you get points to redeem later so that is a added bonus.

Do I recommend Adagio Teas?  Yes, I do. They have so many different teas and fandom blends so there is something for every tea lovers. I know I will be purchasing more tea in the future and some teaware.