Friday, August 26, 2016

Visit Launch Trampoline Park in Warwick, RI and Get FREE 1/2 Jump with Paid 1-Hr. Admission - Valid 8/27-9/2!




Launch Hartford Logo


As promised, I wanted to share the amazing deal available to readers local to the Warwick, RI LAUNCH trampoline park.  If you missed my post yesterday about the specials happening at the Hartford, CT and Milford, CT locations, you can read that post here: http://www.inspiredbysavannah.com/2016/08/take-advantage-of-these-money-saving.html


Here is more about LAUNCH trampoline parks if you have not had a chance to one out yet...


"Launch Trampoline Park is an 18,000 sq. ft. indoor sports and family entertainment facility serving Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. With over 10,000 sq. feet of connected trampolines forming one GIANT jumping surface and angled trampoline walls to bounce off of, Launch will get your whole family off the couch and in the air in no time!

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!

Launch Trampoline Park is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. We offer guests a wide variety of physical activities including open jump time, group exercise classes, trampoline dodgeball, and foam pit fun! This makes us the perfect venue for your next date night, birthday party, family event, corporate event, church outing, or fundraiser!

SAFETY IS OUR #1 PRIORITY!

Jumping on a trampoline is an inherently dangerous activity and can be categorized as an action or extreme sport. It is important for participants to follow set rules, safety guidelines and to jump within their own ability. At Launch Trampoline Park we want all our jumpers to leave our building happy and with exciting stories to share with their friends. Because of this, we have gone to great lengths to reduce or eliminate some of the hazards associated with trampolines and are continually working to ensure a safe environment through superior structure, staff training, research, education and planning. Staff members perform daily and weekly equipment and maintenance checks to ensure all equipment is functioning properly. Staffers also enforce strict adherence to our rules and reserve the right to remove guests from further jumping in our facility if they are acting in a way that may endanger themselves or others."
IMPORTANT: A Waiver is required for all participants and spectators to access our park. Please see our Waiver page for additional information.
We strongly encourage that you fill out the Waiver Form online. Remember, the waiver is good for one year making it more convenient on your next visit.
All of our trampolines and their parts are made with pride in the USA.
NOTE: We strongly recommend making reservations and complete waivers in advance! We typically sell out weekends 2-3 days in advance. Book your tickets now.

RATES:

  • $14 per hour per person
  • $10 each additional hour
  • $8 for 1/2 hour
Children ages 2 and under are FREE with paid parent!
Active Military and Veterans
Active Military and Veterans, come on in to our store and show your ID to receive $2 off your jump time!
College Students
Come in and receive $4 off your jump ticket!  Just show your ID.
Blue Cross & Blue Shield Employees
Come in and receive a 10% discount off your jump time. Please show a valid Blue Cross & Blue Shield employee ID to received the 10% discount.
Hasbro Employees
Come in and receive a 10% discount off your jump time. Please show a valid Hasbro employee ID to receive the 10% discount.
 *Plus applicable taxes and fees

In addition to these RI and CT, LAUNCH also has locations nationwide, so just visit one of the above links and change your location to find a LAUNCH trampoline nearest to you. :-)


Park Info

Want to see what Launch Trampoline Park is all about and why my family and so many others look forward to the next visit, or their birthday to host a party here?  Check out this new 360 degree look inside Launch...and, you will see just how cool a day at this trampoline park is....



Click here to take a 360 degree tour now


And, now for the limited time special at the LAUNCH trampoline park in Warwick, RI...



Park Info park image
  • Launch Trampoline Park in Warwick, RI PROMO: FREE 1/2 hour jump with one paid 1-hour admission (must use same day) ($9 value); Special offer only valid Sunday 8/27 through Friday 9/2.
---

How can you not resist making a plan to visit a Launch Trampoline Park near with this and the previous two money saving promotional offers I shared yesterday?  I for one will be taking the girls next week to jump and save.   Hope to see you there!


Happy jumping!


Read more »

Thursday, August 25, 2016

Take Advantage of These Money Saving Deals at Launch Trampoline Parks in Milford and Hartford, CT -- For a Limited Time!




Launch Hartford Logo


How has your summer been going?  The girls and I have been having a blast exploring new places, swimming and just being able to spend time together outdoors with the warm weather. But, when the weather gets really hot, we like to visit indoor places that will offer AC's to keep cool, while we have fun during these last few weeks of summer.  One place that the girls and I have been visiting a lot this summer is Launch Trampoline in Warwick, RI.  It is only a half hour away, and is a sure fire way to keep the girls entertained for hours and always results in them falling asleep on the way home. :-)  So, you can say this place is a win-win for all.  And, I will not lie, I love this place just as much as the girls.  I can be a kid again, jumping from trampoline to trampoline and playing around with my girls.  

If you haven't visited a Launch Trampoline Park in your area, you really must check it out before the kids go back to school. There are two LAUNCH locations in CT -- one is in Milford (125 Old Gate Ln., Milford, CT 06460) and the other is in Hartford (91 Brainard Rd, Hartford, Connecticut 06114).  And, for those readers in or near RI, you can find Launch Trampoline Park in Warwick.


Park Info

Want to see what Launch Trampoline Park is all about and why my family and so many others look forward to the next visit, or their birthday to host a party here?  Check out this new 360 degree look inside Launch...and, you will see just how cool a day at this trampoline park is....


Click here to take a 360 degree tour now


Check out these special limited time offers at the Milford and Hartford, CT Launch locations.  


Park Info park image


---

How can you not resist making a plan to visit a Launch Trampoline Park near with these two money saving promotional offers?  I for one will be taking the girls next week to jump and save.   Hope to see you there!


Stay tuned tomorrow, when I will share a very special promotion for the Warwick, RI Launch location here on my blog and social media channels.

Happy jumping!

Read more »

Atkins New Meal Kits Make Counting Carbs and Sticking to Your Diet Easy Peasy (Review) #AtkinsMealKits

Disclosure:  This post is sponsored by the Role Mommy Writer's Network.  However, all views shared are mine and mine alone.







As you get older and inch up in numbers, you also see a decrease in your metabolism.  This is not helpful, especially when you are trying to lose weight or simply keep weight off.  Throughout my teens and twenties I never once worried about losing weight or having to diet.  I was always stick thin.  But, then after having my girls in my early 30's, I found losing the baby weight to be a battle.  And, it didn't help that I had the girls back to back as it seemed like I just added weight to my already growing waistline.  When it came time to lose all the weight I put on for both girls, which was over 60 pounds, boy was it a struggle to lose.  

Having two little ones in the house to care for, I wasn't able to go to the gym and work.  My workouts came throughout the day lifting and carrying the girls and cleaning the house.  And, if I found myself with some energy after everyone was asleep I would do some light cardio or yoga to relax and unwind.  You would think with two little ones having to chase after I would not have to worry about exercising or have issues with losing weight.  My step counter is off the charts each day, but the scale tells me a different story -- one that doesn't seem to want to budge.

I don't know about you, but when you don't see the weight coming off, even though you feel you are putting in the effort, it is hard to want to stick to a diet or exercise regime.  For the past few years my new years resolution would include losing the last of the baby weight.  I would find myself getting so close, but then summer, the holidays or stress put the pounds back on.  I have stuck with my resolutions, but when December 31st rolls around, I find myself making the same resolution, as the weight is still there.  

This year I was hoping to be the year that the weight would finally come off and I wouldn't have to worry about dieting anymore.  But, when bathing suit season rolled around, I was wishing for fall.  Then, I was contacted by the folks at Atkins to see if I wanted to try out their new line of easy step-by-step meal kits, made especially for busy lifestyles like mine.  Having tried other weight loss meal kits in the past and not being a fan of the taste or options, I was hesitant to try these kits out.  I decided to give these new meal kits a try because I have been a fan of Atkins shakes and snack bars, so I thought if these taste good, then the food would too.  


I was so happy that I did give these meal kits a try. Not only were they easy to prepare from frozen, but they tasted great.  You would never know you were eating a weight loss meal as the portion size was just right, the quality was amazing, and each and every time I sat down for a meal or snack, I left the table full and satisfied and not to the point that I was disappointed with myself for eating too much.

I could go on and on about how great the new line of meal kits, which are delivered right to your down from Atkins, but I will save that for another post later next week. :-)  Today, I wanted to share more about the three new meal kit options available from Atkins, and share a special promotion where you can save 5% on your first order.  Read on to learn more about this discount, which expires on September 30th.


Here is more about the new low-carb Atkins Meal Kits, which include frozen meals, snacks, shakes and an easy-to-follow menu with shopping list (which has you shopping for minimal items), which are perfect for those with busy lifestyles who are looking to live a low-carb lifestyle or trying to lose weight, and don't want to deal with the hassle of counting carbs or putting together a weekly menu plan that will fill you up and satisfy you, while helping you meat your dietary goal...

----

Atkins Meal Kits, which are delivered right to your door, cover a week’s worth of food and tools, with three different options to choose from for one’s needs and lifestyle:

"Atkins offers the tools and education needed to help consumers eat a balanced diet with reduced levels of refined carbohydrates and added sugars, and rich in protein, fiber, fruits, vegetables and good fats."

Why choose Atkins Meal Kits over others weigh loss or low-carb diets?...

  • Atkins offers an extended portfolio of products, ranging from frozen meals and nutrition bars to shakes and snacks, provide convenient low-carb solutions to help the body burn more fat and work more efficiently, while keeping consumers satisfied and energetic.
  • Atkins Meal Kits give you an easy, step-by-step plan to start & maintain your successful weight loss journey. These kits were created to help you control your carbs and sugars. Each day you’ll consume 20-25 grams net carbs with convenient meal options and all the tools you need to stay on track. 
  • One-week daily meal plan that is easy to follow and Atkins nutritionist-approved.
  • Simplified shopping list to make your trip to the grocery store fast.


Choose from one of the following three meal kit options, that meets your lifestyle and dietary needs...


Frozen Foodie Meal Kit ($69.99) is ideal for people who are too busy to cook full meals, requiring minimal time in the kitchen. This kit features a variety of Atkins Frozen Meals to simplify options for breakfast, lunch and dinner.




Evening Chef Meal Kit ($89.99) is designed for the consumer seeking convenience during the day, but wants to prepare their own meals in the evening. The kit includes Atkins Frozen Meals, Snack Bars and Shakes to cover breakfast, lunch and snacks, with recipes and recommended shopping lists for low-carb dinners.



Easy Peasy Meal Kit ($97.99) is the most comprehensive kit with all meals included, and consumers make their snacks and side dishes. The kit includes a variety of Atkins Frozen Meals, Meal Bars and Shakes to cover breakfast, lunch and dinner.



"While we encourage and guide consumers on how to prepare meals with the variety of foods enjoyed on Atkins, the Atkins Meal Kits take all of the guesswork out of preparing meals and snacks, and offer simplified options for the low-carb lifestyle," said Joseph Scalzo, president and chief executive officer, Atkins Nutritionals, Inc. "With more consumers interested in home delivery food services, the Atkins Meal Kits are ideal for today's on-the-go individuals who want the convenience of having delicious low-carb food delivered directly to their door." 

If you have found yourself making the same weight loss resolution year after year, or not seeing the numbers on the scale going down, or simply want to live a healthier lifestyle, why not give the new Atkins meal kits a try.  I know that you will love the quality and taste and will find yourself leaving the table feeling full and energized, which is hard to say with other meal kits or programs (especially all the ones I have tried over the years).


TRY IT TODAY AND SAVE $$$!!!!


Atkins Meal Kits cover a week's worth of food and tools, with three different options to choose from for one's needs and lifestyle. And, all plans come with the Atkins Meal Kit Guide, The New Atkins Made Easy book, the Atkins Carb Counter and the Recipe Booklet.

All Meal Kits are offered exclusively at Atkins.com with a current offer for free shipping and five percent off on orders for a limited time (Until September 30th) with promotional code NEWKIT5. The Meal Kits may also be purchased as a recurring subscription.  

Once your order your Atkins Meal Kits you can receive free support from nutritionists, access educational materials and share insights from your personal weight-loss journey with other members of the Atkins community.   
----

Stay up-to-date on all things related to Atkins by following their social media channels below...

@AtkinsInsider - Atkins on Twitter
@AtkinsInsider - Atkins on Intagram
@AtkinsDiet - Atkins on Facebook



---

About Atkins Nutritionals, Inc.:

Atkins Nutritionals, Inc. is the leading low-carb program for consumers looking to achieve a healthy lifestyle. From weight loss and maintenance to improved overall health, Atkins offers the tools and education needed to help consumers eat a balanced diet with reduced levels of refined carbohydrates and added sugars, and rich in protein, fiber, fruits, vegetables and good fats. Its extended portfolio of products, ranging from frozen meals and nutrition bars to shakes and snacks, provide convenient low-carb solutions to help the body burn more fat and work more efficiently, while keeping consumers satisfied and energetic.

Backed by more than 80 published scientific studies and consumer success stories, Atkins is a long-term, well-balanced program that appeals to a broad audience of men and women who want to achieve their weight management goals and enjoy a healthier lifestyle. Atkins products are available online at Atkins.com and in more than 50,000 locations throughout the U.S. and internationally. To learn more about Atkins, visit Atkins.com.

Disclosure:  This post is sponsored by the Role Mommy Writer's Network.  However, all views shared are mine and mine alone.

Read more »

GREATER, The Brandon Burlsworth Story -- In Theaters Tomorrow -- Review and #Giveaway

Disclosure:  I was provided promotional material and a screener in exchange for my honest review.  All views shared are mine and mine alone.


Greater Movie

Have you seen a movie that you just can't get out of you head, or makes you think about your life and its purpose?  Since watching GREATER the other day, I can't stop thinking about this movie, which is based on the main character, Brandon Burlsworth's life.  While I am not a huge football fan -- outside the Superbowl (mainly for the commercials and half-time time, but shhh don't tell), I loved this movie and powerful messages is shared.  If you cry at movies, you will definitely want to have a box handy as you will need them.

You may have probably read a couple posts about GREATER these past few weeks on my blog, as I have been anxiously waiting to see the movie, which arrives in theaters tomorrow, Friday, August 26th.  And, because I have been talking about this movie with family and friends, I have also found myself sitting down at the computer and sharing blog posts and clips from the movie here.  But, if you missed these posts are wondering what GREATER is all about, here is more about the movie and the official movie trailer...



"GREATER follows the true story of Brandon Burlsworth who is perhaps the greatest walk-on in the history of college football. Brandon dreamed of playing for the Arkansas Razorbacks, but was told he wasn’t good enough to play Division I ball. Undeterred, Brandon took a risk and walked on in 1994. Written off by fellow teammates and coaches, Brandon displayed dogged determination in the face of staggering odds. The awkward kid who once was an embarrassment to his teammates and an annoyance to his coaches, ended up becoming the most respected player in the history of the program, changing the lives of all he touched. Starring Neal McDonough and introducing Chris Severio, GREATER opens in theaters August 26th."

Looks and sounds like a great family-friendly movie, right?  Well, it really is, and is one that will have you talking days later with family and friends about.  What moved me so much about this movie is the dedication and perseverance Brandon had in seeing his dreams become reality. While he struggled and at times questioned things, he never gave up, which I have to say it awe inspiring.



I wish this movie could have a happy ending, where Brandon went on to win Superbowl rings and lead his NFL team to victory, but that is not the case.  Unfortunately, Brandon passed away in a car accident on the way back to his hometown, shortly after being drafted by the Colts.  How could something like this happen, especially to a kind and gentle soul like Brandon?  You are not alone in wondering this. And, when you sit down to watch the movie, you will find his family, friends and teammates wondering the same time.  Why would God take Brandon?  Was he really needed up in Heaven?  He needed more time to achieve greatness on Earth.  The questions could go on and on, and as you watch the film you may find yourself questioning your faith and why you or someone you know may have been taken too soon or have to deal with a hardship or medical condition.  Why?



We could continue to ask why, but instead, this movie was made to introduce us to Brandon Burlsworth and see that even an underdog and achieve his dreams, if he only believes in himself and never gives up.  Brandon was determined and faced adversity head on, and truly inspired not only those who crossed paths with him, but those who continue to follow in the footsteps of Brandon by dreaming big and going for it.

This movie will have you laughing and crying and cheering Brandon on, as his memorable life is shared in such a moving and powerful way.  The cast of actors, while many are not known, do an amazing job in portraying Brandon, his family and those in his football family.  You don't have to like or even know about football to enjoy this movie, and find yourself being moved by it.



I could go on and on about how wonderful this movie is.  But, instead, why not check it out this weekend with your family and see for yourself.  This is one movie you will remember and find yourself talking about.  It will make you take a step back and look at your life and remind you that you are never too old to dream or set goals.  You just have to be willing to put in the work and dedication to see these dreams and goals come to fruition.

And, before I end this post I wanted to share a GoFundMe page set up for Chris Severio and his family.  Chris played the lead actor role of Brandon Burlsworth, and did an amazing job.  Unfortunately Chris and family experienced a major loss as a result of the recent Louisiana floods.  Chris and his family lost everything in the floods.  The GoFundMe page was set up to help Chris and his family rebuild.  If you feel inclined to donate, you will help Chris and his family start to pick up the pieces and rebuild their lives.  Donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/28422ctg.


--GIVEAWAY--



As promised here is the giveaway for two (2) #77 jerseys, that the kind folks at Grace Hill Media sent me to give away to one lucky Inspired by Savannah reader.  I have to say that these jerseys are super comfy, too! :-)

Want a chance to win 2 (size large) #77 jerseys?  Then, complete the entries on the Rafflecopter form below.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclosure:  I was provided promotional material and a screener in exchange for my honest review.  All views shared are mine and mine alone.
Read more »

Now Available to Own on DVD, Blu-ray and 4K/3D Blu-Ray -- The Angry Birds Movie (Review)

Disclosure:  I was sent a screener from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  However, all views shared are mine and mine alone.

Get Your Copy Now from Amazon!

New from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, on 4K/3D Blu-ray and Blu-ray Clay Kaytis' The Angry Birds Movie (2016), featuring the voices of Hannibal Buress, Peter Dinklage, Bill Hader, Josh Gad, and Danielle Brooks.

This new Blu-ray and DVD release is now available for purchase, as of August 16.



More about the movie:

"In the 3D animated comedy, The Angry Birds Movie, we'll finally find out why the birds are so angry. The movie takes us to an island populated entirely by happy, flightless birds – or almost entirely. In this paradise, Red (Jason Sudeikis, We're the Millers, Horrible Bosses), a bird with a temper problem, speedy Chuck (Josh Gad in his first animated role since Frozen), and the volatile Bomb (Danny McBride, This is the End, Eastbound and Down) have always been outsiders. But when the island is visited by mysterious green piggies, it's up to these unlikely outcasts to figure out what the pigs are up to.



Featuring a hilarious, all-star voice cast that includes Bill Hader (Trainwreck, Inside Out), Maya Rudolph (Bridesmaids, Sisters), and Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones), as well as Kate McKinnon (Saturday Night Live, Ghostbusters), Keegan-Michael Key (Key & Peele), Tony Hale (Veep, Arrested Development), Tituss Burgess (Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt), Ike Barinholtz (Neighbors, Sisters), Hannibal Buress (Daddy's Home, Broad City), Jillian Bell (22 Jump Street), Danielle Brooks (Orange is the New Black), Latin music sensation Romeo Santos, YouTube stars Smosh (Ian Hecox and Anthony Padilla), and country music superstar Blake Shelton, who writes and performs the original song "Friends," the Columbia Pictures/Rovio Entertainment film is directed by Fergal Reilly and Clay Kaytis and produced by John Cohen and Catherine Winder. The screenplay is by Jon Vitti, and the film is executive produced by Mikael Hed and David Maisel."

Special Features:
  • Bonus Scene: Chuck's Rescue
  • Symphony Mode
  • Making Music! With Composer Heitor Pereira
  • Blake Shelton Music Video Friends
  • Photo Gallery
  • All-New Short - The Early Hatchling Gets the Worm (Blu-ray exclusive)
  • 3 More Hatchlings Shorts (Blu-ray exclusive)
  • Deleted Scenes (Blu-ray exclusive)
  • Crafty Birds - How to Build Your Own Piggy Tower (Blu-ray exclusive)
  • Dance Along Birds and Pigs (Blu-ray exclusive)
  • Creating the Real World of Angry Birds (Blu-ray exclusive)
  • Meet The Birds (Blu-ray exclusive)
  • Meet The Pigs (Blu-ray exclusive)
  • Meet The Hatchlings (Blu-ray exclusive)
My Thoughts:

The other day we had a movie night with the girls to watch The Angry Birds movie, which recently released to Blu-ray.  If it wasn't for the toys Bella had asked Santa for last Christmas, I don't think I would have ever known about the Angry Birds craze.  Since that time, the girls can't get enough of these crazy birds.  They can spend hours playing video games on our phones or tablets, watching Angry Birds toons, or simply pulling out all their different Angry Birds toys and building sets and getting lost in the fun of these wacky birds.

My girls were quick to school my husband and I on the birds and what was in store for us, thanks to their frieds telling them about the movie which was in theaters earlier this summer, as well as all the trailers and clips they have seen on television and while using the iPad.

I have to say that while I am not a fan of Angry Birds like my girls are, I did enjoy this movie, as did my husband.  We both loved thr cute puns and jokes that were made throughout the movie, that are girls were too young to understand.  They did, however, laugh throughout the film as the birds, who flock together, worked together to keep the pigs from stealing their eggs.  While some may not consider this a family friendly film, if you have a background knowledge on the franchise and know of the puns and innuendos that the films shares, you can make a judgement call on who you will allow to see the film.  

Even though my girls are young, I knew they would be watching the film from the standpoint of fans of the franchise as they love the birds and the silliness they represent.  I was not expecting them to pick up on the jokes and at times crude humor that this film shares.  We found ourselves all laughing at different parts of the movie, and had fun watching this action packed film, that is a must see for Angry Birds fans.

Disclosure:  I was sent a screener from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  However, all views shared are mine and mine alone.
Read more »

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

Let Maxine Help You Tell It Like It Is -- A Fun New Product Line from Hallmark #Giveaway #LoveHallmark

Disclosure:  I was sent samples from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  All views shared are mine and mine alone.


The Queen of Crabbiness is aiming for a new office—president—with these patriotic gifts.
"Maxine has the ability to tell it—and frequently yell it—like it is. Having been around the block a few times (or more), she can see the ridiculousness of modern life, and has no qualms about sharing her opinions. From sea to shining sea, Americans enjoy her no-nonsense take on relationships, aging, politics, the economy, stress, technology, the news and a host of other topics. She’s a voice for the people."

Do you have a sassy side?  Or do you find yourself waking up some days just plain old crabby? You know we all have those blah days where we would rather stay home in our pj's than have to get dressed and go out and interact with people.  Well, thanks to a fun new line from Hallmark featuring the ever popular and oh so crabby Maxine, you can go about your crabby day(s) without having to worry what others think. :-)

Maxine has a tell it like it is attitude and she is bold in sharing what she thinks both positive and negative with the world.  From politics to life in general, you don't want to cross Maxine, especially when she is crabby...which is all the time! :-)

Recently, I was sent a sampling of fun products from the new Maxine line from Hallmark.  And, I have to say, I couldn't help but smile as I took the items out of the box and read the words.  

Here is what I received from the folks at Hallmark...




·         Free to Be Crabby Maxine Socks: Join Maxine in showing her crabby pride with these decorative socks that are as comfortable as they are fun to wear.
·         Love It or Leave Me Alone Maxine Tumbler: Take your Maxine and American pride everywhere you go with this illustrated tumbler.
·         itty bittys® Maxine Stars and Stripes Stuffed Animal, Limited Edition: From her patriotic hat to her bunny slippers, there's no better way to show your love for the stars and stripes—and maybe some gripes—than with this Maxine itty bittys plush.
·         Gripe About Anything Maxine Mug: Enjoy showing what it is that you—and Maxine—love about our country with this ceramic mug. With a Maxine illustration on the outside and a coordinating color on the inside, you won't find anything to gripe about!

-----

With the recent heat wave and the stress that goes along with back to school, and should I mention the craziness of the upcoming Presidential vote in November, how can one not be a little crabby?  Thanks to Maxine, you can let her speak for your crabbiness with funny coffee cups, socks, cards, tumbler cups, and more, all found at your local Hallmark store and online at Hallmark.com.


Send crabby greeting cards from Maxine and Hallmark.

I started using my Maxine coffee cup the other day and my husband stopped to read it.  He was quick to turn to me and asked "Is it another one of those mornings?"  All I could do was smile, as he could see how tired I was from being up through the night with the girls and dogs, and that I needed to get coffee in me STAT, in order to function...or, he would have his own version on Maxine to deal with. :-)



If you are a fan of Maxine or know someone who is just a little crabby...sometimes, why not check out the fun new Maxine line from Hallmark?  Maxine will help put you in a better mood, or at least get you smiling and laughing as you read what is on her mind on the assorted Maxine products now available for purchase.  I can't wait to see which one you like best. 


Find Maxine gifts for the crabby friends and family in your life.

My favorite is the socks I was sent, which I wore the other day and received so many compliments on from go figure...women. :-)


--GIVEAWAY--





Thanks to the kind folks at Hallmark, one lucky Inspired by Savannah will win the same  "Completely Crabby Maxine" set, like the one I was sent to review, to enjoy, or to share with that special person in your life who is a little crabby. :-) 

To enter this fun giveaway, please complete the entries on the Rafflecopter form below.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway Disclosure:  I was sent samples from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  All views shared are mine and mine alone.
Read more »

The Inspirational Movie, GREATER, In Theaters This Friday, Will Remind Us All That Dreams Are Possible

Disclosure: I am participating in the Greater Movie/Walmart Back-To-School promotion, in which I will be provided with a promotional item for my time.  However, all views shared are mine and mine alone.




Have you ever watched a movie in theaters or at home that moved you so much you found yourself stepping back and reevaluating your life, especially your purpose or getting you to think about dreams you may have once had, but put aside and forgot about, or just gave up hope on?  Last night I watched GREATER, and found myself up in the night and today thinking about Brandon Burlsworth, whom this movie is based on, and how he never gave up on his dream, and how we all shouldn't either.

Here is the movie trailer of GREATER, in case you hadn't heard about this movie, which will be arriving in theaters this Friday...


"GREATER is an inspirational movie based on the life of Brandon Burlsworth that reminds us that any dream is possible. GREATER releases in theaters this August 26."

More about the movie:

"GREATER is an inspirational movie based on the life of Brandon Burlsworth. Brandon had one dream – to play for the Arkansas Razorbacks.  Unfortunately, Brandon was a clumsy player who lacked the physical prowess to make the team.  He was written off by coaches and teased by his fellow teammates.  Undeterred, Brandon continued to show-up for practice.  He woke up before anyone else and worked harder than anyone else, until his determination paid off.  Not only was he given an opportunity to walk-on and play football – he became one of the greatest players on the field, and was drafted to the Indianapolis Colts."

---

Like I said, this movie got me thinking about my dreams and goals and what steps I need to take to achieve them.  I found myself jotting down my dreams and goals and numbering them in importance.  Next to each, I wrote ways I could achieve them or at least the starting steps that will help me see that dreaming is possible...you just have to stay positive, never give up (especially when things don't look promising) and have faith.  Brandon Burlsworth was and still is an inspiration not only to me, but to those who had the honor of being in his presence during his time on this earth, as well as those who will get to meet this amazing man, when they sit down and watch GREATER (in theaters this Friday).

I could go on and on about my hopes and dreams, many which are probably on your list if you were to sit down and make one.  But, I did want to share one as many family are getting ready to send their children back to school or homeschool them, like I do with my two girls.  After homeschooling for the past year and half, I have decided this year to change up my curriculum and way of teaching the girls and pursue a more hands on approach, through a new curriculum as well as classes and programs I have signed the girls up for.  While this may not seem like a challenge, if you homeschool, you probably have experienced ups and downs, questioning yourself if you are doing things right, wanting to make sure your kids are learning all that they can, and more often than not, questioning your ability as a teacher.  

This year I will be bringing the girls to a handful of classes over 45 minutes away from us.  I am looking to teachers with expertise in fields that interest my girls -- the arts, nature and science and history, to help me teach my girls topics that I otherwise wouldn't feel I could do due justice with.  My background is in public health, and although I educate myself through seminars and books, I find that seeking the assistance and guidance of those with a background in various specialties is much more beneficial, especially when it comes to educating my girls, who are hands on learners.

One of the biggest challenges with this new way of homeschooling, in addition to the driving back and forth 3-4 days a week, will be dropping my girls and not staying for the classes.  All through preschool and with our homeschool journey I have been with my girls, teaching them and helping.  While this may not be a problem with some people, it will pose a challenge for us, as my oldest daughter, Savannah, is extremely shy.  She does not like being put in new situations where she has to fend for herself.  She has always had me to guide and ease her anxieties.  Starting in September I will be dropping her and Bella off and picking them up a few hours later.  I will not lie, I, too, will feel the separation anxiety and will find myself worrying about how Savannah will handle the situations of being without me.  But, I know that this is the next step and a challenge in our homeschool journey.  It will help Savannah grow as a person and allow her to work on her social skills, while also learning from educators in fields that interest my girls.  One thing that is comforting both Savannah and myself is that Bella will be in the classes with her, so she will not be alone.  She will have a familiar face and confident to help her transition this school year, and grow.

I love asking my girls what they want to be when they grow up, as children are wonderful dreamers. They think they can be whatever they want, and don't see the obstacles that may stand in their way.  Their answers are so pure and heartfelt, and make we wish I could bottle up their genuine love for life and everyone around them.  Savannah hopes to one day be a veterinarian so she can care for and help animals.  And, to help her reach her goals and make her dream a reality, the classes I have enrolled her and Bella in, with lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning and most importantly instill in them both a desire to learn and explore, without boundaries.  Brandon Burlsworth never game on his dream of playing football, and I hope that my girls will never give up on their dreams.  Yes, there may be challenges, both big and small, but that is back of the amazing journey of life, and one I hope they take full advantage of, by dreaming big and meeting each and every challenge head on.  Yes, there will be struggles and times that they want to give up or choose a path that is familiar to them. But, I hope they see that determination and perseverance will help them achieve all that their hearts desire.  They just want to want it bad enough, like Brandon did...and, go for it!  And, this year, Savannah, although nervous and afraid of change, is looking forward to her homeschool classes and what she will learn, and all the new friends she will make along the way.  That's my girl!  :-)

As you and your family get ready for back to school, I hope you take a moment or two to talk with your children about challenges they may face, and ways in which the can tackle these challenges to fulfill their dreams.  Reminding your children that you are there for them, and that their dreams matter, will help with these and future challenges, as they journey through life.  And, I hope that this film and the story of Brandon Burlsworth will remind the adults out there that you are never to old to dream or challenge yourself.  You just have to believe in yourself and work towards your goals and dreams without giving up.

Disclosure: I am participating in the Greater Movie/Walmart Back-To-School promotion, in which I will be provided with a promotional item for my time.  However, all views shared are mine and mine alone.


Read more »