Nick Jr Fantastic Fall DVD Review + Giveaway

Movies

MBE partnered with Paramount for this review & giveaway.

After a long, hot summer, tree leaves are bursting with vibrant colors, signaling that the annual autumn nature show is well underway. To welcome cooler days ahead and the change of seasons, Paramount Home Entertainment and Nickelodeon Home Entertainment have released the new Nick Jr. Fantastic Fall! DVD now available for preschool boys and girls to watch at home. 

The new DVD features almost two hours of fall-themed fun, home entertainment, and learning for kids. Nickelodeon's most popular preschool shows represented include PAW Patrol, Blue's Clues & You!, Blaze and the Monster Machines, Bubble Guppies, and Butterbean's Cafe.

Fall Episodes on the new DVD

• PAW Patrol: Pups Save Thanksgiving 
• Blue's Clues & You!: Spooky Costume Party with Blue
• Blue's Clues & You!: Thankful with Blue
• Blaze and the Monster Machines: Truck or Treat!
• Bubble Guppies: Trick-or-Treat Mr. Grumpfish
• Butterbean's Cafe: Fairy Happy Thanksgiving

Kids will get in on the excitement from Halloween to Thanksgiving, watching their favorite characters celebrating these fall holidays.  In one episode, children are invited to help Josh and Blue come up with a Halloween costume for Magenta, while in another show, little ones can cheer the PAW Patrol pups on while they rescue Mayor Humdinger and his kittens from a bouncy Thanksgiving turkey. From start to finish, youngsters will want to watch the DVD again and again.

GIVEAWAY

Nick Jr Fantastic Fall!

New DVD

MBE Giveaway

on Instagram

Thanks to Paramount Home Entertainment, ONE (1) lucky MBE giveaway participant will win the brand new Nick Jr. Fantastic Fall! DVD to enjoy at home. To enter this movie giveaway Mommy Blog Expert is hosting, visit this MBE Instagram post. Contest is open to US residents only and qualifying winner will be selected at random. Hurry, this giveaway ends October 1, 2020 at 12 am PST/3 am EST. Paramount Home Entertainment is providing the prize and is responsible for delivery to winner.

About PAW Patrol: Jet to the Rescue

The new Nick Jr. Fantastic Fall! DVD, from Paramount Home Entertainment and Nickelodeon Home Entertainment, has a run time of 114 minutes and carries a suggested retail price of $10.99. Available now in-store and on-line. Learn more about Nick Jr. and follow this popular entertainment enterprise on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Face Masks Style Fashion Inspiration + Giveaway

Style

MBE partnered with Simple Satch to facilitate this review & giveaway

Fashionable Face Masks

Not far into the pandemic, it became official: face masks are a must to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and quickly became a routine part of every day life indoors and outside. It didn't take long, though, before women like you and me began to tire of being limited to disposable paper surgical masks once worn mostly by doctors, nurses, and other essential workers. Even after washable mass market fabric face masks were widely available, if you felt like I did, it was challenging to accessorize fashionably while wearing a face mask.

Simple Satch Has You Covered

Thankfully -- because necessity is the mother of invention -- innovative female entrepreneurs Corrine Daniels, Chaiah Delouya, and Susie Levitt rethought the face mask for the stylish woman to establish the brand Simple Satch*. 

Combining their talents, they've brought style, function and convenience together with their flagship curated hands-free patent-pending infection resistance starter kit collection. Finally, even in the age of COVID-19, fashion-forward women who appreciate affordable, accessible trendy accessories can safely navigate the "new normal" world in which we live in style.

This beautifully packaged collection literally has you covered with all the new personal protection essentials (PPE) we all need nowadays.

 

Each Curated Simple Satch Starter Set Features

• Face Mask
• PM2.5 Filter
• 2 ounce Hand Sanitizer
• Pack of 15 Anti-Bacterial Wipes
• Compact Carrying Belt Bag

All Simple Satch face masks are precision designed with quality breathable fabrics to wear comfortably but snuggly over the mouth and nose. Thanks to a built-in bendable nose bridge and soft tubular elastic ear loops with toggles to easily adjust the fit -- if your experience is like mine -- you might even forget you have your mask on. 

Because family life goes on, I can't imagine a better brand solution for busy moms right now. Just pop your mask on, grab your stylish Simple Satch bag and run out the door with the kids, wearing the bag hands-free around your waist, cross-body, or back. 

The cleverly designed carrying case is roomy enough to hold everything which comes with each Simple Satch set, as well as your smartphone, keys, ID. It even has a hidden rubber port so you can easily and discretely pull out and use the included sanitation wipes without opening your bag. The sleek water repellant bag also is equipped with an internal zippered waterproof compartment, along with both internal and external pockets for additional storage of small items, like makeup, so you'll always know where things are.

Whenever you leave the house or are around other people outside your social distancing bubble you'll never find yourself without everything necessary on hand to help protect yourself as well as prevent the spread of the coronavirus to others. As you can see from the picture here of me wearing my Simple Satch face mask at the top of this story as well as out on the trail with my husband, the brand's masks not only are stylish, comfortable and secure, they're also a good option to wear when you want to avoid breathing in dust while horseback riding or jogging around the neighborhood.

From the brand's basic black and pastels and bright bandana prints to embroidered red roses, gold stars, and animal and camouflage prints, Simple Satch likely has something to suit your personal style. Designs available rotate with the seasons. So though the summer tie-dye style I received for this review is no longer available, definitely check out their beautiful new face mask options for fall, like the gorgeous red roses design shown at the bottom of this post.

Simple Satch

Face Mask Starter Kit - Winner's Choice

MBE Giveaway 

on Instagram

Giveaway Details

Thanks to Simple Satch, ONE (1) lucky MBE giveaway participant will receive their choice of Simple Satch Face Mask Starter Kits (ARV $50-$60).  Winner's choice of Simple Satch Face Mask Starter Kit includes 5 pieces: fashion face mask, PM2.5 filter, 2 oz Hand Sanitizer, Pack of 15 Bacterial Wipes, and Compact Carrying Belt Bag; excludes nail polish, earrings, and makeup. To enter this giveaway Mommy Blog Expert is hosting, visit this MBE Instagram post. This contest is not affiliated with Instagram in any way and it is open to US residents only, ending at Midnight PST on October 14, 2020. Simple Satch is responsible for delivering prize to winner.

More about Simple Satch

At press time, the Simple Satch Kit from Simple Satch is available in 11 different sets ranging from $50-$60. Additionally, Simple Satch face masks ($15-$20), face masks with gold or silver chain ($45-$50), a 4-pack of PM2.5 Filters ($10), and belt bags ($38-$48) may also be purchased separately. A line of trendy pullover face neck scarves also are offered ($20). Watch for new styles and options the brand rolls out in the months ahead. Find new style inspiration for living the new normal lifestyle and learn more by checking out the brand's official site as well as following them on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.

Just one of the Fall 2020 Simple Satch Starter Kits

*DISCLAIMER: Simple Satch reminds consumers that their products are not a guarantee against infection or the transmission of viruses or diseases. Simple Satch should be used in addition to practicing CDC recommendations on hand washing and social distancing.

Apple Honey Edible Dish for Rosh Hashana

Celebrations

Rosh Hashana Food 

Summer is winding down. Hard to believe that the Jewish New Year and Rosh Hashana are just a week away, starting this year on the evening of Friday, September 18, 2020 and running through Sunday, September 20th at sundown. Jews around the world will be celebrating the beginning of the Hebrew year 5781 -- the birthday of Heaven and Earth -- by praying and preparing special foods for the holiday featuring popular ingredients such as apples and honey. This calls for some really delicious but simple recipes and easy Rosh Hashana DIY crafts to celebrate the holiday. 

Origins of Apples & Honey

Tradition holds that this 2-day Jewish festival marks the anniversary of the creation of Adam and Eve, beginning a 10-day period known as the High Holidays. It is a time of self reflection and repentance, coronation of G-d, and judgment of all the good and bad things we have done during the past year, culminating with the holiest day of the year, Yom Kippur.

The apple figures prominently in the Genesis story of Adam and Eve's experience with plucking fruit from the tree of knowledge in the Garden of Eden. Some say, it is for that reason that the custom of Jews dipping apples in honey evolved to remind us of the forbidden apple Adam picked from the tree. The act of people today dipping apple slices into honey represents the idea that despite this sin we hope G-d forgives our flaws and blesses us, our family, friends, and everyone else, with a sweet new year.

 

Apple Honey Dish 

Typically a decorative bowl made of ceramic, silver or some other material holds the honey that is used at the Rosh Hashana table. Why not change things up this year, by creating a beautiful and easy kid-friendly edible honey dish using a real apple?

Easy Step-by-Step Directions

• Choose a good-sized apple of your choice, one that is free of blemishes and is symmetrical with a relatively flat bottom so it will sit level on your table; wash fruit well
• Use a sharp knife, if needed, to carefully slice off 1/8-1/4" off the bottom of the apple so the fruit won't tip easily
• Leave stem and leaves (if any are present) intact, using the knife cut an approximately 1/4-1/2" slice crosswise across the top of the apple to create the lid and set aside
• Cut a circle guideline carefully inside the apple base, being sure to leave the skin at least 1/4-1/2" thick 
• Follow by using a small spoon, such as a teaspoon, to carve out the inside of the apple, again remember to keep skin thick enough so it won't leak -- depending on abilities, this is a good stage to get the kids involved in the process
• Place your apple honey dish on a small pretty plate, fill with honey, add a tiny serving spoon, cover with apple lid, display on your table, and enjoy
• Refrigerate apple dish with lid on wrapped in plastic wrap when not it use; it should keep chilled for about 2-3 days

Pomegranate Recipes

Like MBE's apple honey pot idea? Please feel free to leave a comment. Then watch our site for another creative Rosh Hashana recipe and how-to next week inspired by pomegranates, which according to tradition, were actually the "apples" referred to in the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. I'll be showing you how simple it is to make these beautiful and festive Pomegranate Challah round bread loaves pictured above for your Rosh Hashana holiday celebration.

2 Hearts Fall Movie Release + Giveaway

Movies

MBE partnered with Level3 Digital Media for this post and giveaway

There's a new intriguing romance movie drama coming to theaters this fall, scheduled for theatrical release on October 16th, nationwide wherever theaters are open. A beautiful story about what binds the hearts and lives of two couples of different generations together, the upcoming film 2 Hearts (2020, Freestyle Releasing/AMT Productions) is based on a true story about hope, giving with all your heart and selflessness. Rated PG-13, it's an inspirational and thoughtful film which teens and parents will both likely appreciate. 

Image by Micheile Henderson

See the Movie Trailer Going Viral

Get a sneak peek at the movie now by watching the official 2 Hearts Movie Trailer. With almost 31 million views of this preview already on YouTube, you will want to see this and share with family or friends. This drama is a moving celebration of love, generosity and connection and what is most important in life. Regardless of who you are, where you live or how old or young you are, each life has a purpose.

Image courtesy of Freestyle Releasing/AMT Productions

More about the Movie

The movie stars actor Jacob Elordi (The Kissing Booth) as Chris, a college freshman who falls for a kind and sweet fellow classmate played by Tiera Skovbye (The Miracle Season). Other cast members figuring prominently in the plot of 2 Hearts are Adan Canto (X-Men: Days of Future Past) and Radha Mitchell, (Dreamcatcher).

To celebrate this upcoming film, we're thrilled to be partnering with Level3 Digital Media, along with the makers of this new movie, to offer another great giveaway exclusively for MBE's loyal following. Read on for details.

Fandango Gift Cards

Win a Pair of $10 Fandango Digital Codes

MBE Giveaway 

on Instagram

Giveaway Details

Thanks to Freestyle Releasing/AMT Productions, ONE (1) lucky MBE giveaway participant will receive two (2) $10 Fandango digital codes good at U.S. movie theaters. To enter this giveaway Mommy Blog Expert is hosting, to enter visit this MBE Instagram post. This contest is not affiliated with Instagram or Fandango in any way and it is open to US residents only, ending at Midnight PST on September 23, 2020. Level3 Digital Media is responsible for delivering prize to winner.

About 2 Hearts

Learn more about 2 Hearts the Film by visiting the official movie site as well as follow all the news about this big screen title on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Join the movie's mailing list for screening information, exclusive content and more.

National Call to Wave US Flag 9/11 Anniversary

Remember September 11th

The non-profit Wreaths Across America is spearheading a campaign encouraging everyone to join in unity across the U.S. to stand outside and wave the American flag on Friday, September 11th for one minute at 8:46 am as well repeat the waving of Old Glory for another minute each at 9:03 am, 9:37 am, and 10:03 am ET.

Never Forget the Events of 9-11-01

Those old enough to remember will never forget the tragedies which befell us that day...

At 8:46 am ET five hijackers took control of American Airlines Flight 11 and flew into the northern facade of the World Trade Center North Tower (1 WTC)

At 9:03 am ET five additional hijackers flew United Airlines Flight 175 into the southern facade of the World Trade Center South Tower (2 WTC)

At 9:37 am ET another five hijackers flew American Airlines Flight 77 into the western facade of the Pentagon in Arlington County, Virginia

At 10:03 am ET four terrorists who had commandeered United Airlines Flight 93, crashed the plane into a field in Stonycreek Township near Shanksville, Pennsylvania

These four attacks cumulatively resulted in over 3,000 fatalities, including those who died in the aftermath, along with more than 25,000 injuries. Millions of American lives were irrevocably changed.  Indisputably, 9/11 is the world's single deadliest terrorist attack ever to occur.

Image courtesy of Wreaths Across America

The Freeport Flag Ladies

Following the horrific events of 9/11, three women who became known as The Freeport Flag Ladies (Elaine Greene, Joann Miller, and Carmen Foote) were almost immediately inspired to do something meaningful to honor the victims. So, they took an old American flag out of storage and the three of them stood on a hill waving the Stars and Stripes every Tuesday morning for the next 18 years in Freeport, Maine.

After waving the flag one last time for last year's September 11 remembrance, the trio of female patriots retired. 

Wreaths Across America Takes Over

The very next Tuesday, Wreaths Across America (WAA) stepped in to take over the weekly flag display the Freeport Flag Ladies started. To provide a place where the regular flag waving tradition could be continued, WAA's founder Morrill Worcester set aside a piece of land in his hometown along US Route 1 in Jonesboro, Maine. This parcel of land leads to the new Acadia National Cemetery to be built on property the philanthropist also donated. 

Since then Mr. Worcester has added a mile stretch display of 105 American flags on both sides of the road leading up to the entrance of the Cemetery, which is now open to the public. Every Tuesday, dozens of local volunteers and other supporters wave our flag -- which is particularly meaningful, producing a spark of hope, patriotism, and optimism during difficult times.

 

Honor 9/11 Wherever You Are & Share on Social

It could not be more important to remember and honor our nation's great losses that day as well as to teach kids growing up now, the generation born after 9/11, how hard times can strengthen us if we pull together and do something collectively as a nation -- as simple as waving a US flag during those four key times this Friday, September 11, 2020.

Participants of all ages are encouraged to participate on 9/11/20

• Capture video and pictures of you and your kids in action, joining in this national flag waving remembrance event
• Share your images with Wreaths Across America, as well as your family and friends, using the hashtags #FlagsAcrossTheCountry and #AmericaStrong
• Post on your social networks, tagging Wreaths Across America 

Image courtesy of Wreaths Across America

About Wreaths Across America

The mission of Wreaths Across America, a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, is Remember, Honor, Teach. While the group is best known for placing veterans' wreaths on headstones of the nation's fallen at Arlington National Cemetery outside of Washington, DC, the organization reaches beyond, placing more than 2 million sponsored wreaths at more than 2,200 participating locations nationwide and offering other programs throughout the year. Men, women, and kids are invited to sponsor a wreath for $15. For more information visit the group's official site WreathsAcrossAmerica.Org as well as follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

Paw Patrol Jet to the Rescue Giveaway Review

Movies

MBE partnered with Paramount for this review & giveaway 

New PAW Patrol DVD Release

Kids who love PAW Patrol -- the number-one ranked preschool show on TV, produced by Spin Master Entertainment and airing on Nickelodeon -- are in for a real treat. That's because three weeks before it premieres on Nick Jr., the all-new Paw Patrol: Jet to the Rescue (2020) DVD from Paramount Home Entertainment and Nickelodeon Home Entertainment is available exclusively on Amazon as of today. 

The Amazon advance release of PAW Patrol: Jet to the Rescue coincides with the pre-sale launch of an exclusive toy and apparel collection.  Then, on September 8, the new DVD will be widely available nationwide.

The Storyline & What's Included

The new DVD release features an all-new original TV movie plus four popular Paw Patrol episodes. Fans will delight in some exciting new adventures in the air as the lovable, animated pups place all paws on deck to  travel back to Barkingburg with their shiny new rescue gear and speedy jets on a mission. Along the way, they'll rise to the challenge to save Barkingburg Castle from the wicked Duke of Flappington, making a daring stunt pilot rescue, helping one of Mayor Humdinger's kittens and lots more excitement.

PAW Patrol: Jet to the Rescue episodes on this DVD

• Jet to the Rescue
• Pups Save a High-Flying Skye
• Pups Save Skye
• Pups Save a Flying Kitty
• Pups Save an Ace

GIVEAWAY

PAW Patrol: Jet to the Rescue

New DVD

MBE Giveaway

on Instagram

Thanks to Paramount Home Entertainment, ONE (1) lucky MBE giveaway participant will win the brand new PAW Patrol: Jet to the Rescue DVD to enjoy at home. To enter this movie giveaway Mommy Blog Expert is hosting, visit this MBE Instagram post. Contest is open to US residents only and qualifying winner will be selected at random. Hurry, this giveaway ends September 14, 2020 at 12 am PST/3 am EST. Paramount Home Entertainment is providing the prize and is responsible for delivery to winner.

About PAW Patrol: Jet to the Rescue

The new PAW Patrol: Jet to the Rescue DVD, from Paramount Home Entertainment and Nickelodeon Home Entertainment, has a run time of 1 hour, 32 minutes and carries a suggested retail price of $13.99. Available exclusively on Amazon as of September 3 and nationally starting on September 8. Learn more about PAW Patrol and follow this popular entertainment enterprise on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.