Lego Legends of Chima { Giveaway } ~ The real reason we buy Lego

It's been a while hasn't it.

Christmas and New Year had me playing with my boys instead of online...well some of the time.Being a feasting sloth also featured highly.

We built Lego City Cargo Terminal, Rescue Helicopter and then racing the Legends of Chima. Lego building is a lovely way - for me - to bond and connect. (no pun intended with them and their interests)

My boys like to fight over play Lego their own way. Yes - the only wrong way to play with LEGO is the way that leaves pieces out for me to step on when barefoot or make me frantically move the vacuum cleaner in the opposite direction to miss Lego.

I suggested to my boys we re-build all our Lego City collection and they cried no - because they have build their own vehicles,

Joel's Base

' BASES ' , buildings and display their mini figures collections- (Superman and Darth Varder are now friends too)

So this Christmas - It went like this - 

Step 1: Buy Santa brings LEGO

Step 2: Rip Open all the boxes and carefully tip the numbered packets into separate containers.

(this was after Christmas but illustrates the point)

Step 3: Toss aside Carefully place the instruction manuals in right order.

Step 4: Retreat to your corner  - commence build !

Christmas Day.

Step 5: Knock Lego on the Floor; under the table, under the lounge ; LEGO, start looking for the missing pieces ...find pieces from last week.

Step 6: Document the Completion. Play !

Joel made the Helicopter completely with no assistance. Only Superman can save the day ...he is from another set . The boys also independently made the H helicopter landing pad.

Step 7: Children make modifications ...while I step on stray Lego and commence - hopping and cursing (at children).

Step 8: 2hrs later ... I accidentally vacuum up a stray LEGO piece.

Step 9: Encourage husband to dig through the vacuum cleaner bag searching for that piece (and others) while watching over his shoulder and holding a tissue to my nose , to make he doesn't miss a tiny piece .

Step 10 : Suggest listing Lego on eBay...we'll make a fortune.

Okay,  I'm kidding - my boys and I enjoy hours of play with Lego and they play it together - everyday !

Their recent favourite collection has been

LEGO Legends of Chima is a tale of animal warrior tribes, who live in the magical land of Chima. Build your minifigure using LEGO bricks, Race against the other animal tribes and battle it out to WIN the powerful CHI with the LEGO Legends of Chima Speedorz. 

They knew all the tribes and powers ! I just like to see them race.

The boys were so excited when these arrived to review.

The standout features are it's animal-centric ; and there are various accessories and their own unique Speedorz , which gives more scoop for imaginative play (with collectable playing cards) and physical play.

 'Speedorz' - come come with a ripcord (launcher) which is used to rev them up and get them racing and leaping across toes the room .

Speedorz move pretty fast once they get going and it was so hard to capture the action on video. A flat surface (floor not carpet) works best (of course they disappear under the couch and sometimes 'crumple' but it was a lot of fun).

LEGO® Legends of Chima ™ - Speedorz™  the awesome LEGO Legends of Chima Speedorz collection:

Sky Joust $29.99

Fly high into the Chima eagle territory for a Sky Joust battle and compete for 12 CHI! Attach Rawzom and Eris onto their Speedorz and pull the ripcord. Fly up the ramps and grab the CHI perched high on the peak! Attach the power-upz and take the battle to the next level! Set includes 2 minifigures with assorted weapons, 2 Speedorz, 2 ripcords, 4 weapons, 2 power-upz, 12 CHI and 10 game cards. Put your timing and accuracy to the test with this lightning-fast game for 2 players. 

Royal Roost $22.99

Test your Speedorz accuracy in the Lion tribe’s territory with the Royal Roost challenge! Go after the Lion tribe’s CHI hidden in the nest perched high on the castle column! Attach Lagravis onto the lion Speedor and pull the ripcord to crash into the column and bring the CHI toppling to the ground! Attach the power-up for even more Speedor stability! Includes minifigure, 2 weapons, Speedor, ripcord, power-up, 6 CHI and 5 game cards. Put your skills of accuracy and timing to the test with this game for 1 or more players!

Whirling Vines $22.99

Race through the overgrown jungles of Chima to win the CHI in the Whirling Vines Speedorz challenge! Attach Gorzan onto the gorilla Speedor and pull the ripcord! As you speed through the jungle, dodge the whirling vines of the deadly carnivorous plant and survive its sharp fangs to get through the gate to the CHI! Attach the power-up for even more stability or leave a slippery banana-skin obstacle for your opponents! Includes minifigure, 2 weapons, Speedor, ripcord, power-up, 6 CHI and 5 game cards. Put your skills of accuracy and timing to the test with this game for 1 or more players!

The three sets are valued at $75.97, and I have 3 x sets /packs to giveaway

Leave a comment answering ...........

 The real reason I buy Lego is _____________________________________ ?

Terms and Conditions.  

1.Only Australian Residents are eligible to enter.
2.Entries not answering the question will be deemed invalid. The winner will be chosen by originality and creative merit, not by chance. Judges decisions are final and no correspondence will be entered into. Additional entries permitted (as a separate comment) for each extra entry option. 

3.There will be 3 winners-
4. Entries - Open 10/1/2014 - Close 11.59pm 24/1/14 AEST. The winner will be notified by email, and posted to mylittledrummerboys.blogspot.com.au after they reply - Winner has 3 days to respond or a new winner will be drawn.
5. The Prize is not transferable, changeable or redeemable for cash.
6. Prizes sent out by PR firm directly will not be replaced in the event that they are stolen, lost or damaged or delayed in transit.
 
7. Subscribe to my blog  to receive MLDB updates.
8. Follow via Facebook or Bloglovin on the sidebar.

Disclosure: I was gifted 3 x Lego Chima Speedorz - no financial payment was received. All opinions are my own.

Congratulations to Carmen J, Vicky F and Kylie B

 ♥

Modern families and off to the shops I go !!! + { Giveaway }

Here we are less than 13hrs till Christmas day and I still haven't finished my shopping.
Please tell me I'm not the only one.

On the eve of 23rd Day of Christmas we had one chucking cherub , my True love took care of the output. The cherub seems better this morning.

Thankfully. I've got a lot to do.

I wanted to buy a new copy of ELF - so far unsuccessfully. 

It's too late to shop online but I have been fast and furiously searching for ideas this morning for last minute gifts.I was thankful also be gifted a range of DVD's from 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment.

We have wrapped most of the presents for the three children . 

So I'm winning , normally we are still wrapping at midnight on Christmas Eve...Christmas Eve Eve was much nicer. I had to put a sign so the drummer boys didn't get excited in the morning.
Twin One still came in at 6am and said  


"Santa has been."

He knows it is tomorrow and has been counting down the days.
  
I hope they aren't disappointed - Twin one wants a robot Santa, iPad and a lolly machine. (uh oh) 
Twin two iPad, Lego marvel superheros game (double uh oh)


My Husband is the hardest to buy for - I am hoping he likes these new TV sitcom releases, in his still empty stocking and a few others.

HOW I met your MOTHER [season8] ! I know we missed a season or two - it still leaves us in stitches of laughter. I can't believe it is coming to an end.

MODERN FAMILY is a culturally defining series. Season 4 sees the 'families' give an honest and hilarious look into the sometimes warm and twisted embrace of the modern family.

I read some statistics from a poll - it said mums were more likely to communicate with kids by text and social media than Dads - it's the only way I keep tabs in touch with my eldest son ... he rings his Dad regularly (every few days for a chat and to give me a message if other devices fail)

"Mum, can you put $20 in my account ?"

"Mum ?"

"Mum ????"

"Mum , please Mum" 

"I beg you ???????"

I wasn't ignoring him, I just hadn't been on the internet and my phone was on silent.

If he can't get me by texting my phone- he uses Facebook.

Repeatedly.

At a last resort he calls his Dad, to ask him, to tell me, to check Facebook or my phone.

I am undecided if digital communication brings and keeps families together . It does enable us to communicate anytime and anywhere. Yet, it is sad to see so many people so disengaged when attending family events or dinner that they can't leave their electronic devices alone.

The Little Drummers don't do this yet except for the TV.

My boys are going to be kept busy watching Home Alone Series . We have Diary of a Whimpy kid 1,2, & 3 too. The boys love family movie time, popcorn and sitting on top of us and digging in elbows  close.
 

Almost too big for Christmas jammies.

 

X-MEN collection is sure to give my 20yr old hours of entertainment ! No where near me , though Hugh does make my heart flutter.

You can search for these titles and more based on your budget in 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment Christmas Gift finder www.foxgiftfinder.com.au

So easy to use 5 clicks < under 10secs.

Since is Christmas Eve - I have Season2 Homeland to give away and a few extra mystery items.

Leave a comment telling me your favourite Christmas movie.

Terms and Conditions.  

1.Only Australian Residents are eligible to enter.
2.Entries not answering the question will be deemed invalid. The winner will be chosen by originality and creative merit, not by chance. Judges decisions are final and no correspondence will be entered into. Additional entries permitted (as a comment) for each extra entry option. 

3.There will be 1 winner -
4. Entries - Open 24/12/2013 - Close 11.59pm 7/1/14 AEST. The winner will be notified by email, and posted to mylittledrummerboys.blogspot.com.au after they reply - Winner has 3 days to respond or a new winner will be drawn.
5. The Prize is not transferable, changeable or redeemable for cash.
6. Prizes sent out by PR firm directly will not be replaced in the event that they are stolen, lost or damaged or delayed in transit.
 
7. Subscribe to my blog  to receive MLDB updates.
8. Follow via Facebook or Bloglovin on the sidebar.

Disclosure: I was gifted a range of Blu/DVD's with no expectation to write a post , no financial payment was received. All opinions are my own and I did find the gift finder a great tool to use.

Closed -  winner notified.

 ♥

Stepping out of my comfort zone, Naturally - RedBalloon review

 RedBalloon review

I was stepping out of my comfort zone when I decided to choose a Scientific Naturopathic consultation for my next RedBalloon experience ...I possibly needed a detox after eating all that chocolate and fudge.

What ?

Hands up who wouldn’t want more Sleep Abundant Health, Energy and Vitality!

I‘ve always had the understanding that  Naturopathy focuses on naturally occurring substances, minimally invasive methods, and encouragement of natural healing. I wanted to know more as I travel the path to recovery .

I trusted the fact that because they were a Redballoon experience they must be reputable. In the past I may have been sceptical about some alternative medicines with my nursing background / career. I know diet and natural therapies play a big role in healing in many cultures.

I had already booked this experience when I discovered my son’s new girlfriend, was ‘training’ to be a Naturopath. [A four-year Bachelor of Health Science in Naturopathy degree. She was telling me how much she loves microbiology one day...not my favourite health subject ]

Interesting, hmmm, I hope she curbs his junk food addiction.

I arrived early and was given a lovely cup of green tea (Of course)

My consultation with the scientific naturopathic practitioner began with a detailed questionnaire, then a patient interview focusing on my diet and lifestyle, health concerns , medical history, emotional journey {right now especially with cancer } and physical features like height and weight, skin , BMI and muscle mass. All information basically to give her a full picture of how I manage my health. She put me at ease and listened...not like some Drs who care less about the whole person.

The information I gave , used in conjunction with my results from the testing, helped determine my health priorities. The testing package includes a zinc mineral test, (zinc is one of the most important minerals for long term health and longevity) and the highly regarded cellular health test.

I was deficient in zinc and I had a few areas to work on with my nutrition.

I’m still under the Oncology team and having Herceptin treatment every 3 weeks so I'm always going to be cautious. All the advice I received was sensible . She actually asked more questions about my health and diet then they ever have. A lot of the advice was similar to what a renown nutritionist recommended a few weeks ago.

I got feedback on the health and energy of my cells, my body composition and the biological age of my body (I have the body of a 42yr old – hurrah). My body weight was spot on, but I’m lacking muscle mass. I’ve lost muscle mass since my breast cancer diagnosis.

After my Naturopath practitioner collated the results, she gave me a tailor made program including a few nutritional/dietary changes and supplement recommendations to target my specific health concerns and assist my body in returning to full health and vitality.

When I told my husband I needed more sleep ...he agreed 110% !
He said "Turn off the computer. Go to bed earlier  – you are not sleeping in".

I've really been trying to give a go but being sick the last week with a respiratory infection has not been easy.

I would highly recommend this experience. I trusted my practitioner's advice and I purchased a few recommended supplements, though there was no pressure to do so.

Personally, I wouldn’t advise anyone ever to rely on this type of treatment alone for cancer. Serious consequences may result avoiding or delaying conventional medical care. Also, if you are visiting a Naturopath, be sure you know what kind of training and education the person has. 

Thanks to RedBalloon and Radiance Healthcare  It was so easy to book a suitable time. A day later, when I wanted to move my appointment from 3pm to 4pm  , it was no problem to change with Radiance.

RedBalloon have the ultimate in 2500 + different experiences across Australia. The variety of experiences that cater to all ages ,and lifestyles means there is something for everyone to choose.

If you can't decide on an experience buy a gift voucher. RedBalloon vouchers are perfect for any occasions ...I really don't need 217 reasons to take a mini break this winter ! One would suit me perfectly.

There is a special deal for My Little Drummer Boy readers!

• Offer: Spend $129 or more on any RedBalloon experience, and receive $30 off.
• To redeem:  Visit www.redballoon.com.au and enter the promotional code REDMUM12 at the checkout to receive your discount.
• Terms and Conditions: Offer valid until 31/12/13. Promotional Code can only be used once per person. All purchases are subject to Red Balloon T&Cs, for full details see www.redballoon.com.au/help/terms-conditions

Disclosure: Thanks to the team at Digital Parents Collective for inviting me to be a part of the Red Balloon Experience Program. I will be sharing more awesome experiences with you over the coming months. Stay tuned!  As always, all opinions are my own however the experiences are complimentary.
I paid for my own supplements.



Linking with Essentially Jess #IBOT


 ♥

Countrylink Royal Easter Show & amaysim mobile deals iPad mini {giveaway}

Countrylink Promotion and amaysim data & iPad mini Giveaway

Kids go a long way for a dollar.

Remember our Countrylink Dinosaurs in the Wild adventure well we are off again - RAWR ! ...no Moo-moo, Quack -Quack ...  with 14,000 animals on display. (That's a lot of .... !)

Thanks to Countrylink we are off to the Sydney Royal Easter show, which is celebrating 190yrs this year. WOW ! We leave tomorrow afternoon and the Show opens Thursday (21st March- April 3rd).

Countrylink has an exclusive offer - Buy 1 entry ticket to the Sydney Royal Easter Show and receive 1 ticket of the same type FREE when you purchase a return CountryLink train or coach ticket to Sydney. They have some great accommodation deals in Sydney to make it more affordable too.

The offers are only available for Sydney Royal Easter Show tickets purchased through a CountryLink sales outlet traveling to Sydney between 20 March and 4 April 2013.

The Sydney Royal Easter Show brings  the  smells of  country to the city every year to celebrate the best Australia has to offer, hours of family fun, carnival rides, free entertainment , carnival rides and showbags ! Something for everyone. Perfect to distract me from worrying about other things.

2012 -Milkshake making classes, Ashton's circus, Equine Entertainment and Circus school.

I am looking forward to the Arts and crafts, woodchop, fireworks and live entertainment. The boys love the animal nursery and showbags on display. Hubby is keen to check out the cows and rodeo !

CountryLink offers a great value kids' fare - what can you buy for one dollar ? up to four children from the one household can travel to any of more than 365 destinations on the CountryLink network for just one dollar each  (each way)! [Unfortunately under12's must be accompanied by adults :) so you can't just pack the kids off as tempting as it sounds]

The journey is half the fun and $1 kids' fare will help make your family holiday, short break or visit to friends or relatives that little bit more affordable. As well you can take time on the way to notice the countryside you are passing through, play endless games of snap, colour-in or read and EAT ...plenty of food available on board too. They have chocolate hot meals to order. You can book sleeping accommodation on some trips.

I recommend charging up all your idevices and electronic games too (no charging facilities on the train). My boys loved the excitement and freedom of the train.The time passed quickly and we had very few "ARE we there YET ?"

For more information and to book, call 13 28 29 or visit your nearest CountryLink Travel Centre.

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I'm so glad I have my iPad2 when traveling. It kept the boys entertained while traveling and when we stayed in Sydney I still had access to internet. I cannot cope without my iPad and internet. Sad , but true. My iPad mobile broadband worked in a few locations luckily !

In a completely unrelated promotion I am so excited to be giving away an iPad Mini thanks to amaysim.

amaysim is Australia’s low cost mobile service provider with multiple award winning mobile deals.[Money magazine‘s best of the best awards 2012 and 2013].

- amaysim UNLIMITED mobile plan won gold, as did amaysim AS YOU GO. For everyone in-between, they have got amaysim FLEXI. So whether you‘re always on the phone, or just an occasional user like me, they have you covered.

- Say goodbye to lock-in contract forever with amaysim MOBILE BROADBAND data packs– perfect for those who need mobile broadband on the go ...anywhere you 97% of Australia is covered (Optus network)

- If you need mobile broadband for your i devices , tablet, smartphone, or SIM compatible laptop just add a great-value amaysim Data Pack ...from $9.90 for 1GB and up to $99.90 for 10GB’s. When I next re-charge - I'm switching to amaysim - I paid nearly twice that much for my current iPad mobile broadband data pack.

-You can forget paying sneaky costs like flagfall within Australia or payout fees and even unlocking costs. 

- amaysim have an Australian customer service centre too -lots of great reasons to switch!

 Visit: www.amaysim.com.au

This amazing giveaway they have offered for my readers ...

amaysim MOBILE BROADBAND 10GB data pack all in Oz, 365 expiry. r.r.p $99.90
Apple iPad Mini, 16GB with Wi-Fi and Cellular. r.r.p. $509.00

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Please use Rafflecopter to enter - then leave a comment below - In 50 words or less what is your best traveling tip or where you would travel with an iPad mini and why ?-  [at nearly half the size of the regular iPad it still packs a punch and you can take it anywhere . Perfect to keep the kids (or yourself) entertained these holidays and especially on a train trip!]

1. Only Australian Residents are eligible to enter.
2. Entries not answering the question will be deemed invalid. The winner will be chosen by originality and creative merit, not by chance. Judges decisions are final and no correspondence will be entered into.
3.There is one prize iPad mini Apple iPad Mini, 16GB with Wi-Fi and Cellular. r.r.p. $509.00 plus amaysim Mobile Broadband 10GB data pack all in Oz, 365 expiry. r.r.p $99.90
4. Entries - Open 19/3/2013 - Close 11.59pm  8/4/2013 AEST. The winner will be notified by email, and posted to mylittledrummerboys.blogspot.com.au - the winners have 7 days to respond or a new winner will be drawn.
5. Prizes are not transferable, changeable or redeemable for cash.
6. Prizes sent out by PR firm directly will not be replaced in the event that they are stolen, lost or damaged in transit.
7. Subscribe to my blog  to receive MLDB updates.
8. Follow via Facebook or Bloglovin on the sidebar >>>>

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Disclaimer : Countrylink have offered me 3days3nights package with accommodation & breakfast only and Easter Show entry . No monetary compensation was provided nor offered. All opinions are my own.

The amaysim MOBILE BROADBAND 10GB data pack all in Oz, 365days expiry. r.r.p $99.90
Apple iPad Mini, 16GB with Wi-Fi and Cellular. r.r.p. $509.00 giveaway is not related in any way to the Countrylink promotion.
 
amaysim is not sponsored , it is purely a giveaway for my readers - no monetary compensation was provided nor offered and I did not receive a iPad mini .

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PS - I totally recommend CountryLink's three-day, two-night packages starting from only $404 per person twin share to Taronga Western Plains Zoo. Packages include return rail and accommodation and entry.I wasn't asked to mention this but I love our local zoo.

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♥

How Eskimos keep Their Babies Warm and more than one way to parent a child

Book Review

I've been doing a lot more reading lately. I can't wait till the weather cools to snuggle up on the couch or under the doona with a book. There is nothing more satisfying.

I've always been an avid reader but since the Internet children I've read less and less. Reading a book (s) for my own enjoyment used to be a part of my daily activity, now I'm more dependent on technology and finding less time to read 'paper' books. I do read to my children most nights and listen to them read home readers 4-5 days a week

I was sent several books to review in the past month so I've been very busy.

How Eskimos keep Their Babies : Parenting wisdom from around the world , has been absolutely delightful.

I learn so many things through reading. Reading gives me insight into other peoples lives and cultures and this book was eye opening.

A charming insight into child-rearing practices across the globe

How Eskimos Keep Their Babies Warm is the perfect read for fans of bestselling parenting book French Children Don't Throw Food.

'A captivating book, filled with some genuinely useful (and jaw-dropping) child-rearing tips from all over the world' Amy Chua, author of Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother

For any parent weary of the so-called 'expert advice' peddled in books and on TV, How Eskimos Keep Their Babies Warm lifts the lid on how other cultures parent their children, with some interesting – and surprising – insights. Mei-Ling Hopgood explores how mums and dads in other countries approach such issues as bedtime, potty training, healthy eating and playtime squabbles and offers some fascinating new perspectives on how to do things.

This inspiring, engaging and fun read proves that there are many ways to be a good parent - and more than one way to raise a child.

I've been a parent for almost 19yrs and spent 10yrs nursing children in hospital. I'm still learning how to be a better parent.

How Eskimos Keep Their Babies Warm is captivating and entertaining while providing views from other parents and solid research from anthropologists and childcare experts, it's interspersed with the author's experience and observation, to explore and back up the different parenting methods observed.

The author, Mei-Ling Hopgood has a warm , 'honest' personality and she writes with humour and gentle wit. I've learned a whole lot of new ideas and had some of my own views challenged.

Mei-Ling doesn't agree with everything and even challenges what experts tell parents ...especially about potty training infants. It was interesting and easy to read.

I am an accidental 'attachment parent' who breastfed because I could, practiced baby 'wearing' for a short time (because twins do make it more challenging) and co-slept because it worked for us. I had no set ideas and I didn't have solid reasons one way or the other. I've never openly judged other parents and I tried never to offend people ...though breastfeeding my preschoolers was certainly offensive to some.

The message is clear there is no way to be a perfect parent and a million ways to be a good one!

There is just no need to attack other parents choices. I enjoyed this post by Emma too.

Disclaimer: No financial payment  was received . One copy of  How Eskimos Keep Their Babies Warm was sent to me by PAN MACMILLAN AUSTRALIA Books.All opinions are my own. Like them on Facebook

Linking up with    Jess  #IBOT
 ♥

SPC Fruit Product of the Year + {Giveaway} - closed

Blogvertorial for Digital Parents Collective and SPC

It is hard to believe we are already half way through term one. I was just as excited as my boys when we were invited to try  SPC Fruit Crush-Ups.

Over their preschool years we tried some of the packaged fruit tubs but they didn't work for us - they were messy (my kids) and they didn't finish the tub . I wanted to try SPC Fruit Crush-ups because they were voted Product of the Year for 2013.
 

The daily grind of  choosing healthy appealing items to pack in the lunch box is exhausting . I run out of ideas when the clock is ticking and we have to leave for the bus in 3 mins.

I'm fortunate my boys love fruit and help themselves whenever they want a snack at home . I encourage it , often we can be down to our last 2 apples and 1 banana before I've realised it. I can see SPC fruit crushups being a good back up in the pantry or anywhere on the go.

For school I pack 2 serves of fruit (one for fruit break and one for extra), one sandwich and a snack (decanted from a larger pack) and/or treat (home baked or not). It's a squish sometimes. Crushups slip in easy.

Some of my friends struggle to get their kids to eat and enjoy fruit. I can see these being very popular with kids as a fun, nutritious snack.


The pester power of six year olds is under-rated. They have asked to try a few of the pouched and packaged products and to date it has only been the occasional yoghurt.

We tested SPC crushups out on busy afternoons with after school activities too. Crushups are a satisfying snack for the kids when they have 5 mins between the school gate and the speech therapist or anytime, especially in the car. The resealable cap is a fantastic idea for kids on the go.

I tried them too , they are a fruit puree that taste good ...not that I would eat them regularly. Just saying...

It is reassuring that they are 99% fat free; contain no known allergens, no artificial colours or flavours and no artificial sweeteners or preservatives. Each portion controlled pouch, contains over half the recommended daily serve of fruit . Smooshed up or not - it counts.

They are available in 6 flavours for kids to enjoy: Mango, Banana, Mixed-Berry, Fruit Salad, Tropical and Strawberry {90gms $1.29}. Joel didn't like the strawberry one but loves Fruit salad and Tropical. Sam likes them all. They enjoyed them semi frozen too like a wholesome fruit slushee.

To be honest I'd rather know they were having a fun, healthy treat I chose instead of purchasing things I don't like at school canteen. I am sometimes reluctant to spend money on prepackaged snacks for school especially when I don't know if they will eat it. The Crushups retail for $1.29 RRP which think is reasonable and affordable.

To celebrate SPC Fruit Crush-Ups being voted number one by more than 10,000 consumers in the Product of the Year awards!

SPC is offering the chance for one reader to win a whole school term's supply of Fruit Crush-Ups. 

• 8 packs each of the 6 different flavours - 48 single servings to help you fill your lunch boxes (and hungry little human beings) 

 1. Only Australian Residents are eligible to enter.
2. Entries not answering the question will be deemed invalid. The winner will be chosen by originality and creative merit, not by chance. Judges decisions are final and no correspondence will be entered into. 

3.There is 1 winner- 8  x pack of the six flavours as detailed above ($61.92)

4. Entries - Open 5/3/2013 - Close   20 /3/2013 11.59pm AEST. The winner will be notified by email, and posted to mylittledrummerboys.blogspot.com.au - the winner has 7 days to respond or a new winner will be drawn. 

5. Prizes are not transferable, changeable or redeemable for cash.  

6. Prizes sent out by PR firm directly will not be replaced in the event that they are stolen, lost or damaged in transit.

7. Subscribe to my blog HERE to receive MLDB updates. 

8. Follow via Facebook or Google Friend Connect on the sidebar >>>>

•  To enter tell me your best or worse lunchbox memory ...

Linking with #IBOT

 Winner : Amanda from AMJ

 ♥

Get Cracking Wonderful Pistachios - {Giveaway} Gangnam style

 {Review & Giveaway}

When I was sent the three new Wonderful Pistachio flavours: Roasted & Salted, Salt & Pepper and Sweet Chilli to review I went nuts .

No seriously, they are delicious. I shared my nuts with a few friends and family. Everyone agreed Wonderful Pistachios are a winner for a healthy, tasty snack that appeals to the whole family...well not so much the kids but more for me and hubby.

I'm trying to choose wisely when I snack . Pistachios , are a healthy alternative to chips, dips and crackers . They are a rich source of energy packed with nutrients, minerals (copper and iron), antioxidants, and vitamins (a rich source of Vitamin E, B-complex)

I loved the mildly spiced 'turn up the heat' sweet chilli -a little added sweetness and tangy heat of chili.

 The salt n pepper was very unique -bold and crunchy.Hubby likes his nuts roasted.

Pistachios are perfect for a pre-dinner appetizer , 'waiting for school bus' afternoon munchies and for family movie night . Pistachios go great with popcorn, on a fruit & cheese platter and the shell keeps little (or big) hands from gobbling them down by the fistful (my boys do know how to chew nuts properly).

Wonderful Pistachios are grown in California and dry roasted - $7.49 for 250 grams at supermarkets.

(Credit)

I came across this Psy video when I was researching my review - hilarious and so catchy



Like them on Facebook here 

Giveaway - 

Which celebrity would you like to get Crackin' with (and /or why)  ? (Hint - you tube has a few Wonderful Pistachios celebs videos)

1. Only Australian Residents are eligible to enter.

2. Entries not answering the question will be deemed invalid. The winner will be chosen by originality and creative merit, not by chance. Judges decisions are final and no correspondence will be entered into.

3.There are two winners- Hamper pack of the three Flavours x 2 as detailed above (total prize approx $49.00 each )
4. Entries - Open 2/3/2013 - Close 11.59pm  18/3/2013 AEST. The winner will be notified by email, and posted to mylittledrummerboys.blogspot.com.au - the winners have 7 days to respond or a new winner will be drawn.
5. Prizes are not transferable, changeable or redeemable for cash. 
6. Prizes sent out by PR firm directly will not be replaced in the event that they are stolen, lost or damaged in transit.

7. Subscribe to my blog HERE to receive MLDB updates.

8. Follow via Facebook or Google Friend Connect on the sidebar >>>>

Disclaimer : I received a hamper of the three Wonderful Pistachios. No financial payment was received and all opinions are my own .

Winners :

 J Mason

T Field 

 ♥

Lego Ninjago - Temple of Light ~ Giveaway

Review and Giveaway

I received the 'awesome' LEGO Ninjago – Temple of Light to review with my six year old sons [actually 6yrs 8 months today] and I have 2 to giveaway. The arrival qualifying me for Mother of the Year !

My boys, like most of their classmates, love Lego Ninjago and watch the animated cartoon  so they know the cast of characters and their fancy names. The names Lord Garmadon and Sensei Wu roll off their tongues familiarly.

While I cannot get my head around them , they laugh and say try again.

Despite the age range being 8-14yrs Joel and Sam were able to construct the Temple of Light and The Golden Mech with minimal help in just over an hour. I was very surprised they hardly needed my help at all *sob*.

They each choose one thing to build and helped each other as well.They followed the Lego instructions - easily.

I watched them, to save the little Lego bits from being knocked to the floor and to talk about the characters while they they were building together. I am fortunate to have a genuine interest in something that my boys kids love to do. I love watching the figure and temple take shape and the intense concentration of their faces.

The final epic battle for the Land of Ninjago has begun! Take Sensei Wu and Lloyd, the golden ninja, deep into The Temple of Light. 

Sneak past Lord Garmadon and his minions to put the 4 elemental blades in place at the heart of the temple. Unite their elemental powers to awaken the Golden Mech for the final battle! 

Open the temple, jump into the Golden Mech's cockpit, arm yourself with the Golden Mech sword and fight for the freedom of Ninjago! Defeat Lord Garmadon !

This very impressive set Includes Golden mech and 5 minifigures with weapons: Lloyd (golden ninja), Lord Garmadon, Sensei Wu, scout and warrior

 

• Golden mech features poseable limbs, adjustable hat, cockpit with space for a mini-figure and a large golden sword.Golden mech stands 20cm tall

• Temple has opening and closing sides - clever little hinges , 4 elemental blade holders, trapdoor, weapons rack, gong and a ladder .

 

• Weapons include 4 elemental blades (fire, ice, lightning and earth), spear, ninja sword, 2 sai, crossbow with quiver, Lord Garmadon's staff, Sensei Wu's golden staff, katana and a golden mech sword. The weapons very important apparently.

The variety in the pieces available now (as compared to when DH & I were kids) is amazing. I am so impressed by the detail of this set.

PS : While I encourage creative thinking in free range Lego building I doing my bit to ensure they have ability to build from IKEA instructions in the future ...

You will be excited - I have 2 sets to giveaway thanks to

LEGO Ninjago – Temple of Light x 2 ($99.99 RRP each)

Tell me which is your child's favourite Ninjago character and why to win one of these awesome Lego packs ? 

I might get the little Ninja judges to help me on this one. 

Terms and Conditions: 

 
1. Only Australian Residents are eligible to enter.

2. Entries not answering the question will be deemed invalid. The winner will be chosen by originality and creative merit, not by chance. Judges decisions are final and no correspondence will be entered into.

3.There are two winners- 1 prize each of Lego Ninjago - Temple of Light prize as detailed above $99.95 each RRP.
4. Entries - Open 1/3/2013 - Close 11.59pm  18/3/2013 AEST. The winner will be notified by email, and posted to mylittledrummerboys.blogspot.com.au - the winners have 7 days to respond or a new winner will be drawn.
5. Prizes are not transferable, changeable or redeemable for cash. 
6. Prizes sent out by PR firm directly will not be replaced in the event that they are stolen, lost or damaged in transit.

7. Subscribe to my blog HERE to receive MLDB updates.

8. Follow via Facebook or Google Friend Connect on the sidebar >>>>

Disclaimer : I received a  Lego Ninjago - Temple of Light set to review. No financial payment was received and all opinions are my own and my lucky Ninjas.

Congratulations to Ninjago Winners: 

Bec Sherman

Allison Tait  

♥

PlayStation Wonderbook™ – Book of Spells {Giveaway}

Just in time for Christmas I have a very special giveaway - 

PS3 12GB - AUD$299.95
Wonderbook Move Bundle - AUS$99.95 RRP

Wonderbook is the latest innovation from Sony Entertainment's Playstation experience.

Book of Spells  for PS3™ -  is the first title for Wonderbook. Master 20 spells from the world of Harry Potter™



We were invited to see Wonderbook first hand 2 months ago.Though my boys mostly watched other children playing, they could see themselves in the 'story' too. It was magical indeed as you step right into the augmented reality world.

They loved having a play with the magic wand but are perhaps too young to play this title alone. I
admit as a Harry Potter reader I was intrigued. JK Rowling has even written new original content.

Interactive reading, dueling, spell casting or the Pensieve...you decide !

Bring wizardry to life in your living room with Wonderbook™: Book of Spells for PS3™

[The press release explains it more precisely than I can ...]

Book of Spells comes to life as you read, allowing you to cast spells with your PlayStation®Move Motion Controller which becomes your own magic wand.

Wonderbook™ is the latest way to inspire children’s imaginations and give them a whole new way to interact with stories old and new. Bringing the tales to life, right in their hands, the Wonderbook is the newest evolution in storytelling, taking children of all ages into new worlds of adventure and excitement.

Just like a student at Hogwarts - embark on a fantastic journey to read and learn the secrets of wizardry and the art of spell-casting.

J.K. Rowling said “Wonderbook: Book of Spells is the closest a Muggle can come to a real spellbook I've loved working with Sony’s creative team to bring my spells, and some of the history behind them, to life. This is an extraordinary device that offers a reading experience like no other.

Book of Spells provides students with a safe environment in which to read, discover, learn and practise spells they already know and love, such as Incendio, Wingardium Leviosa and Expelliarmus, as well as discover mischievous notes and spells scribbled into the margins by previous Hogwarts students.

J.K. Rowling has written a conundrum to lead you through the experience, providing insight into what makes a successful witch or wizard, and inviting fans to journey through the book and unlock new tales at the end of each chapter rewarding students for their successful spell-casting.

Wonderbook puts you at the heart of the action using augmented reality technology via PlayStation®Eye to transform the world around you.

In the works are new titles including Walking with Dinosaurs from the BBC, an exciting partnership with Disney and a quirky new detective title, Diggs Nightcrawler.

Wonderbook looks set for a great future as a powerful storytelling vehicle and tool for the imagination.

What magical ability do you desire or what spell / potion would you create if you were Hogwart's student ?

This is a game of skill. Each valid entry will be judged based on creativity, humour or originality.
Though in the spirit of good, clean, fun answers can be humourous , practical or fantasy or whatever ?

Time travel ?  Ability to turn on and off rain ? Mute potion for my your children

Terms and Conditions: 
1. Only Australian Residents are eligible to enter.

2. Entries not answering the question will be deemed invalid. The winner will be chosen by originality and creative merit, not by chance. Judges decisions are final and no correspondence will be entered into.

3.There is one prize -  Total value - $399.95

PS3 12GB - AUD$299.95
Wonderbook Move Bundle - AUS$99.95 RRP

{Wonderbook™: Book of Spells for PS3™

Master 20 spells from the world of Harry Potter(TM)}.

 4. Entries - Open 27/11/2012 - Close 11.59pm  12/12//2012 AEST. The winner will be notified by email, and posted to mylittledrummerboys.blogspot.com.au - the winner has 5 days to respond or a new winner will be drawn.
5. Prizes are not transferable, changeable or redeemable for cash. 
6. Prizes sent out by PR firm directly will not be replaced in the event that they are stolen, lost or damaged in transit.
7. Additional entries if you share on FB or twitter but you must leave a second valid entry answering the question - Also, please leave how you shared the post in the comment.

8.Subscribe to my blog HERE to receive MLDB updates

9. Follow via Facebook or Google Friend Connect on the sidebar >>>>

Disclaimer: All opinions are my own , I was not paid though we received a copy of Wonderbook. 

win free stuff

Winner: John & Faith !

I would choose the Oculus Reparo spell. As a mum with 3 kids who wear glasses (one of them two!) this would be a total life (and wallet) changer!


 ♥