Emergency Survival Kit 2 Pack by True Valor ~ Don't go hiking, camping or Scouting without this cool Kit! #TBLSurvivalKit

Emergency survival kit two pack by True Valor.

These grenade style survival kits are a must have for any outdoor enthusiast. These kits fit in your pocket or clip them to your bag or belt loop.



The carabiner is easily removed and the whistle is ready to use at any time. 10 feet of paracord wrapped tightly around all of your essential tools.



A fantastic gift for any hiker, camper, survivalist, boy scout, or american hertitage girl go bag bugout bag. Makes a great stocking stuffer too.

* These kits are wrapped very tightly and

should not be unraveled until necessary as re-braiding the paracord is a practiced skill .

* The contents of these kits are all wrapped in an additional piece of aluminum foil to keep them together. A small resealable bag is also inside the kit, in which all contents of kit can be kept if unraveling and use of the kit becomes necessary

* Several tools in the kit are very sharp and the weights are made of lead. Not recommended for children to use contents of the survival kit. Wash hands after use of these tools.

* Paracord is very strong but the paracord and carabiner are not intended for climbing

Review:

Ok I have to be completely honest - I did not take one apart because I plan to keep using it as an emergency kit for our Boy Scout and AHG outings.  We have another campout and hike coming up and I didn't want to try to figure out how to get it put back together! LOL



These tightly woven kits are amazing.  Them come ready to use . . . a carabiner on top to clip it to a backpack, belt loop or string, an emergency whistle hanging on the bottom in a bright orange easy to see color . . . and in between! you guessed it - lots of great emergency gear all tightly wrapped up inside a 10 ft long paracord.



The kit is strong and tightly wound so nothing will come out until intended.  Inside the paracord grenade is a large amount of emergency items.

Included is:

10 feet of paracord

Emergency whistle

carabiner

fire starter and tinder

knife (safely wrapped)

alcohol pad

aluminum foil

needle

2 safety pins

fishing line

fishing hooks, floats, weights and swivels

iron wire

This is a wonderful kit to have on hand in any outdoor emergency.  From day hikes to backpacking cross country.  From overnight campouts to high adventure.  A must have item for any outdoorsman (or woman).  Check out more info here.

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

How Cool Is that! My Kids Shine when riding their bikes with Super Bright Rim Lights #bikelights

What do your kids do when it is too dark to ride their bikes in the evening?  Do they whine? fuss? throw a fit?  I know I do (LOL)  Now they can ride a LITTLE longer with Longer Lasting Rim Lights - plus they just look so darn cool!

• Light up your bike at night with the Speed Racer rim lights - Choose from three different styles


• Motion sensor LED technology ensures durability along with 50,000 hours of lifetime


• Easy to install - simple attach LED wheel flash light to valve stem on bike. Fits almost all bikes.


• Package includes A 3 pack of 2 x green 2 x blue 2 x colorful LED Valve Bike Lights


• Speed Racer is rust resistant, 1100% waterproof and usable through any terrain.

Review:

I would definitely NOT use these as Safety Lights but as an added fun feature on a child (or adult) bike.  And yes, they CAN even be used on cars and trucks for all you Big Kids!



These "Longest Lasting Super Bright Rim Lights" as the description states, arrived in a package of 6.  2 of each color ~ 2 flashing different colors, 2 blue and 2 green.  I was planning to put them on my bike and ride it fast to see if it would look anything like the photo above that is with the product information but my girls vetoed that idea right away.  They both wanted to be the ones to try out these cool new lights, so of course being the Perfect SuperMom that I am (NOT!) I told them that the could (basically I didn't have anyone to work the camera if I rode - LOL)

Unfortunately that was around 5pm and not nearly dark enough that the lights could be seen so we had to wait for . . . ev. . . .er for it to be somewhat dark enough for the video.  Let me know what you think  -



Video after being put on the tire - doesn't take much movement for them to start working:

10 yr old sister's video:

Now, they were easy to put on, and easy to get off - though I recommend some caution as the parts are mostly plastic.  Don't turn to forcefully they could break - just a warning, it did not happen with us.

The one thing I don't like is the type of batteries.  Yes, I know - what else would fit that small of a space but button cell batteries - but they are expensive to replace! I would say for $13.95 on Amazon, when the batteries do die, it would be cheaper less expensive to replace the lights than to purchase new batteries - each light takes 3 button cells.  BUT, the description says they should last 50,000 hours so that means I should basically NEVER have to replace them . . . .in theory.



Overall they are cute and fun to use, but unless you are a speed demon, they won't look like the picture of the whole inner tire turning colors - but they will look cool and get you noticed!

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Capture the Moment with inspired techniques to help make photos into amazing memories #review

This modern guide to photography pairs big, bold images with short, focused tips for translating everyday life into stunning works of art. Featuring contributions by the members of Clickin Moms, the photography industry’s largest social network of female photographers, this guide captures the beauty of family life—whether it’s a child’s

unfinished bowl of cereal or a sunlit trip to the lake. With tips progressing from elementary to advanced, this book is perfect for amateurs and professionals alike, covering equipment, composition, posing, low light, natural light, black and white, still life, and lifestyle photography. Assignments for experimenting with lighting and shooting locations round out the chapters, providing photographers with both the inspiration and skills they need to document those unforgettable, frame-worthy moments in time.

REVIEW:



With three children growing fast and changing often, it can be quite pricey to purchase school photos or take them to a "professional" photographer.  A couple years ago I purchased a nice Cannon camera (not top of the line but a nicer digital for home use) so I could start taking my own yearly and seasonal photos of my kids (and pet, outdoors, etc).  At first it was a learning experience to figure out the best lighting, positioning, background and foreground images, positioning and such . . .  and I thought I did a fairly good job for an amateur photographer.

But still, I wasn't satisfied.  I knew there was so much I needed to learn and figure out to really make a great photo.  So I kept trying, searching the internet and books and asking questions to find ways to improve my personal photography without spending a ton of money on props and gadgets.  So I started paying attention to the lighting in our yard at different times of day - what "accessories" and "props" I could find right in my own home or yard and I think I did pretty well . . .

 But again, there is still much to learn.  So finding the book Capture the Moment by Sarah Wilkerson has been a wonderful addition to my photographic education.  It is well written and full of professional photographs that help a novice like me to see step by step how to improve my photography. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn a bit more and visually see different techniques that can help improve their own photographs.





Capture the Moment can be purchased on Amazon.com

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

LÍLLÉbaby COMPLETE baby carrier with more carry positions that most other carriers! #lillelove Check it out! {Review}

The LÍLLÉbaby COMPLETE baby carriers combines more carrying positions, lasts longer, and includes more features than any other baby carrier. The All Seasons line features an adjustable center panel: zip up for warmth and zip down to reveal cool, breathable, 3D mesh.

1. SIX ERGONOMIC CARRYING POSITIONS – Includes every carrying position without the need for an infant insert: Front-fetal, Front-infant, Front-outward, Front- toddler, Hip and Back carry. 



The COMPLETE grows with your child through

all the baby wearing years, from 7 lbs to 45 lbs. 



The patented cupped seat adjusts to keep baby ergonomically seated in all six carry positions through every development stage.



2. LUMBAR SUPPORT – Increases comfort, maintains healthy posture and alignment, and prevents lower back strain. Combined with an extra sturdy waist belt to maximize parent's comfort. 




3. TWO-WAY STRAP NEW! – Enable wearer to carry "backpack style" or with straps crossed in the back. Dual adjustment buckles simplify breastfeeding and adjusting straps on the go.

4. SLEEPING HOOD– Features dual adjustment points to provide tailored support for baby's head while sleeping, sun protection while exploring, and privacy while nursing. Removable.



5. EXTRA TALL, EXTENDABLE TORSO – So comfortable your baby will fall asleep. Provides extra neck and back support and keeps taller babies secure in the carrier. The adjustable width gently cradles baby's head. Elastic straps provide support while allowing for movement and easy adjustment.



6. POCKETS- Zippered cargo pockets on the panel for easy storage of essentials.



7. WIDE, PADDED SHOULDER STRAPS & WAIST BELT - Evenly distribute baby's

weight for maximized comfort.


Product Review:

For Mommy ~ The Good: 

The best part of the carrier is the lumbar support. After using other brands of baby Carriers such as Baby Bjorn and a Boba Wrap, I feel that the Lille provided twice as much support to my lower
back compared to other brands. As someone who has struggled with back problems on and off, I would HIGHLY
recommend this product to a mom who wants to "baby wear" but is afraid it will
be to

taxing on her back.

Also, I like that this carrier can go up to 45lbs. I
intend to baby wear for sometime, and this carrier would last much longer than
the Bjorn or Boba in that department.  In this way I can continue to carry baby up through early toddler years and still have the comfort and support that I have now with my little one. 

For Mommy ~ The Bad:

It took me a LONG time figure out how to
comfortably wear this carrier. There are many adjustable straps - which I assume
would be helpful as baby grows - but initially it took a lot of adjusting and
readjusting to make it comfortable for me and for the baby. After 4 tries I
started to feel comfortable sitting this on by myself, but before then I needed
help as the carrier hooks in the back by your neck and it was tricky at first.
Also, it took a bit of time to adjust the seat width setting - and it is
essential for you to do this in order for your baby not to be miserable. The
Bjorn and Boba are heads and shoulders above LILLE in terms of simplicity of
design and user friendliness. I still have not figured out the Side position,
and I don't have enough guts to try the back-pack position. But I have no doubt
that with enough practice these too could prove comfortable for mom and
baby.

For Baby ~ The Good and the Bad: 

Once all the adjustments were made my baby seemed
pretty comfortable. Baby sat forward facing comfortably and also really seemed
comfortable facing in. In terms of comfort I would say the Lille is pretty good.
If you are carrying your baby for long stretches of time I would recommend this
over the Boba or Bjorn. I think it is more comfortable for both baby and mommy.
Also the fabric is fairly breathable which helped for Baby not to get too warm
while in the carrier, which can be a problem with the Boba.

Overall opinion:

I would say that overall, the LÍLLÉbaby COMPLETE baby carrier is heads and tails above the rest.  For quality, comfort, and length of use (can continue as baby grows) it would be my first choice of carrier.  For ease of use, it takes quite a bit of practice and figuring out before I felt comfortable doing it on my own.  A great product and one that I highly recommend to anyone wanting to baby wear!



*A special thank you to my friend Jenn and her sweet baby girl for reviewing this product for me and for her thorough review*





To see a selection of colors/styles or to purchase:

visit their website at:  http://lillebaby.com/baby-carriers/completetm

Can also be purchased on Amazon.com

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Get Clean Safe drinking water anywhere, anytime with your own lightweight #PersonalWaterFilter

About this product:

This Portable Water Filter Could Save Your Life

Could you survive without clean water?

- Have you wondered what would happen if you ran out of water? 

- Do you ever go camping, hiking or backpacking? 

- Do you have a backup plan if your water

becomes contaminated? 

- Do you have a bug out bag for emergencies?

This Personal Water Filter is a Lightweight Water Filtration System (weighs less than 3 ounces)

Get all of the benefits of a heavy duty water filter, at a fraction of the size and cost.

Activated Lightweight Carbon Advanced Filtration designed for hikers, campers, survivalists, and preppers

- Filter up to 396 gallons of drinkable water with one straw. (30% more efficient than standard portable filters.) 

- Chemical Free technology for healthy water intake. 

- Lightweight and easy to store. Perfect for Bug Out Bags. 

- Lifetime Guarantee. 

- Ranked the #1 "must have" item for backpacking in 2015





Review:

With my son in Boy Scouts and my husband and son both camping a LOT, we have started being more aware of emergency supplies that are necessary to have on hand for different outdoor scenarios.  Between disaster planning, emergency supplies and first aid supplies, we are frequently looking for good quality products to  have for scout outings and family emergency needs.



Now, we are not true "preppers" yet, but are working towards trying out and acquiring items needed to keep our family healthy and safe during nearly any situation.



Clean drinking water is one of the top 4 Necessities of life.  Being in emergency situations or on a camp out or hike, running out of clean water can be life threatening.  Having a safe, quick option to get clean drinking water is a must - plus it must be lightweight enough to carry in a hiking backpack.

With this Survival Water Filter, we have a lightweight, easy to pack/carry filter that will clean up to  nearly 400 gallons of water with each filter.  I am amazed by how well it works.

Since it did not arrive before my son left for Scout Summer Camp, I had to try it out in a unique way.  I took fresh dirt from a potted plant and stirred it into clean bottled drinking water.  I then used the filter to "drink" from that dirty water - since I needed to prove it was clean - I spit out the water into another glass so I could see and take a photo of the water after it had been through the filter.



Not only is there no dirt, but the water has no taste - I mean some bottled waters have a sort of "taste" to them, but this water was just clean and refreshing.  This filter is definitely going into our camping supplies, and we will be purchasing a few more for our emergency kits as well!  This blogger HIGHLY recommends this survival filter!

 Dirt mixed in

 before and after

Survival Water Filter works!

Check it out for yourself on Amazon.



*Q & A Time:



1. Do you have an emergency kit for your family?

2. If no, are you thinking of making one?  If Yes, do you have a type of water filter included?

3. What appeals to you about this Survival Water Filter?

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion through Tomoson. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Listening to Music while running or walking is better with this Armband #iphone5armband

iPhone 5/5S/5c Sports Armband with Credit Card Slot

If you've ever been out running and tried to listen to music or send a quick text while taking a breather you know its almost impossible to use your phone without covering it with sweat or worse dropping it along the way! Now with this armband you can safely interact with your touchscreen and listen to your favorite music :)



Compatibility and Use

Use your armband with the iPhone 4/5/5S/5c and iPod Touch 5. You can wear it over your biceps or forearm. The night reflector

provides additional visibility for outdoor early morning and evening runs and there's even a key holder which we all know can be a lifesaver. This armband is also great for high intensity workouts, yoga or even casual walking or outdoor activities.



Precision and Protection

The touchscreen is fully accessible through the plastic cover. The armband pouch and cover keeps your iPhone safe from impact and moisture while working out.



Size

This armband is lightweight and accommodates arm sizes from approx. 9 to 15 inches. Also we recommend that you use this armband without a case.

Material and Care

Made of nylon, velcro and neoprene materials. Armband can be safely hand washed and air dried after use. We do NOT recommend machine washing your armband as this could cause damage.



Value:

Why pay more? This armband is a super deal at an extremely low price. It also makes a great gift idea! Get yours today!





Review:

As stated in the description, this Sports Armband works great for my husband when he is running.  His only issue with it is that it fits his iPhone 5 VERY snug and makes it a little difficult to get in and out.  Though he assures me that he would prefer it to be snug than loose, it needs just a tiny bit more room for him to be perfectly satisfied with this particular product.



It fits comfortably on his upper arm, plenty of room for larger or smaller arm size, stays in place while moving, and has a pocket on the back for any money, ID, or credit card he might want to carry on him.  He loves being able to have his phone along, listen to music or a book while running and not have the extra weight of a backpack or waist pack to carry it in.



Overall we find this to be a great product for those on the go who want a safe and secure place for iPhone (or iPod) and some extra room for ID, cash etc.  The price at only $7.99 on Amazon is also a big plus!

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Plan, Implement and Track your gardening with GrowVeg! #review #gardenplanner #GIVEAWAY

I must admit that I was skeptical about using the GrowVeg Garden Planning tool for my gardening this year, and often do not utilize organizational programs as I should.  With GrowVeg I was pleasantly surprised by how easy to use it is and how much more organized my gardening has become.

The last couple of years the produce was not as good a yield as I was hoping and thought that maybe the reminders and helpful tools included with this program might help my

garden areas be better this year.  

Review:

Grow veg has a lot of things going for it, but what I had to decide is whether or not it was truly worth paying $25 a year for. Keep in mind that Grow Veg does offer a free trial for 30 days to try the software out. 

I was able to plan my garden and print out a copy of it and my plant dates for free. But I wasn't sure it worth continuing to pay for.  As I continued to use it this year for the first time I'm finding that in the long run it is a great program and has great potential for the years to come.  It is easy to use, has step by step guides, map and draw features for all shape and size garden areas, lots and lots of tools and features to aid in planning, planting, growning and rotating crops each year.

I must say that I will keep using this program to get the most out of my gardening and keep it easy to do, reminders of when to plant, water and feed as well as finding the best plants for each garden area each year.  From beginner to pro, GrowVeg is a great tool for any gardener regardless of experience level!

See what the experts at GrowVeg have to say about their product:

Our Garden Planner makes it easy to draw out your vegetable beds, add plants and move them around to get the perfect layout. Either metric units or feet and inches are supported and any shape of garden can be created.

Whether you use traditional row planting, raised beds or Square Foot Gardening the Garden Planner adapts to suit your gardening style.

The Garden Planner has over 200 vegetables, herbs and fruit and detailed growing information is just a click away. As you add vegetables the space they require is clearly shown by the coloured area around each plant and it calculates how many plants will fit into the area.

Crop rotation is easy as the Garden Planner warns you where you should avoid placing each vegetable based on what was in your previous years' plans.

The Garden Planner adapts to your own area using our database of over 5000 weather stations. Print your own personalised planting chart showing how many of each plant you require and when to sow, plant and harvest them.

Twice a month the Garden Planner sends email reminders of what needs planting from your garden plans.

The Garden Planner is both easy to use and flexible. Organise which crops will follow on from others using the succession planting feature and see how your garden will look for each month of the year. Customised varieties can be added with their own spacing and planting dates.

Like a garden journal, you can add notes to your plants and plans to track how they grow.

Want to try it FREE for yourself?  ENTER TO WIN a 1 year subscription.  Just enter by leaving me a comment about your garden(s) below!  Must be 18 or older to enter/win.  Contest Winner will be chosen using Random.org on Thursday July 23rd 11pm CST.

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.