As a blogger, I am always looking for things to try and review. I have a four person family. Myself, My husband and My children. We are always up for trying things. We do have a youtube channel and we do post a lot of things on there. We just did the Bean Boozled challenge. Yikes! That was scary! Let me tell you a little about each of us in case you ever have a product you want us to try!
Me!!! - I love crafts. Anything crafty. I also love to bake and cook. I also love things that solve problems. And pretty much anything to do with jewelry, candles or girly stuff. Big back yard person and love to do gardening and love to read. I like all kinds of music.
My Husband Mr. J. He is an avid outdoorsman. Loves to hunt and fish. Makes his own lures, reloads his own bullets and melts his own lead to make weights etc. He also has gotten into making fishing flies....(You know that one on youtube with the straw. He watched that video twice and made it). He also likes to do blacksmithing, woodworking and anything he can build or create. He is not a music buff.
My son Ken - Well he is just out of the Army. He loves anything asian. Also, he is into video gaming and woodworking. He likes to create things and likes to read books but only ones that have to do with gaming or military. He likes metal music or techno.
My daughter Tay - She loves anything to do with Hair, make-up etc. Loves to craft and loves to listen to all kinds of music. She is going to be a psychologist. She also enjoys reading, cooking, baking and anything asian. She is a gamer girl. She is in love with Sailor Moon since child hood, also is a big Harley Quinn fan as well as Harry Potter and well, lets just face it, I am part of a family of geeks and nerds. Its ok we like it that way.
We love to visit local places and go to local events. So whether it is a concert, a fair, or just a store, we enjoy it immensely. We will be reviewing some other places in the area as we hit them and I will be starting a series on the local pawn shops and antique stores etc.
So that is a little about us. If we aren't home and we aren't at work.....we are hitting the beach or trying something new! Maybe you don't have a product for us to review specifically if you are from this area or visiting this area and want us to check something out for you LET ME KNOW! We are always up for a challenge.
Feel free to email us at lynnjansen14@gmail.com. We will respond within 5 business days!
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Crazy times!
So I got on a roll. Got daily posts going out (which is my goal) then poof insanity took place. Just a lot going on with church and getting our house in order for company in 2 weeks plus my daughter had company for a week. AND My son is home! Woohoo! So now we are back to a family of four. Funny how when your kids grow up and move away and then move back, it is wierd to get a normal. Well that being said, this blog post will be a little meandering, please forgive me.
Lately there has been a lot going on. With my son going home I have had to meander that whole thing again of him and I and the fact that we sometimes are too much alike. But so far, we are ok. No major rows. And he seems to be adjusting to our new location well. He still is looking for a job, but, I don't know how hard he is looking. Im sure soon he will be looking a little harder. The army gave him a smoking thing so...........he needs smokes and with me not working full time either, I can't budget his smokes.
So my opinion of the army an their policies. My son got the shaft. With all of this downsizing thing, my son (who was injured) got a regular discharge. Lost half of his 9/11 benefit. He was told he was being med boarded out meaning he would keep 10% of his pay and keep his Post 9/11 benefit for college tuition. Nope. So, here we are. I really feel like if a soldier gets injured they should not be screwing them out of their benefits to 'save money'. It is not acceptable. Just my opinion no hatemail please.
Also, trying something new. It is a product called Tru. Helps with weightloss. I just finished day one on 3/30/15. So we will see as I go forward. I also gave up SODA! OMG> WHAT WAS I THINKING!?!?!?! I quit smoking myself because I can't quantify that into our budget and then no soda........and starting a new pill to lose weight. But on day 1 my energy level was soo high. I was like surprised. I mean I have not been low energy persay but, I feel a marked increase in my energy level. I like it. I will keep you in tow on that one too. I took before pics and measurements. I am not using my scale because I definitely think something is wrong with it. NO Im not saying there is no way i weigh that much. What i am saying, is that it says i gained 60 lbs since we moved here. But a lot of my clothes from up there are fitting looser. So..........not really possible to gain that much weight but have loose fitting clothing...just saying.
Our house! Well my living room is DONE!!! ZMy Kitchen is DONE! My dining rom is 98% done. My craft room 98% done. Today, craft room will be finished and my green room will be in progress and hopefully my dining room will be done. I want to start peeling wallpaper this week.....sooo.....we will see.
Ok so this now ends the meandering of my post for today! Have a great one and God Bless!
Lately there has been a lot going on. With my son going home I have had to meander that whole thing again of him and I and the fact that we sometimes are too much alike. But so far, we are ok. No major rows. And he seems to be adjusting to our new location well. He still is looking for a job, but, I don't know how hard he is looking. Im sure soon he will be looking a little harder. The army gave him a smoking thing so...........he needs smokes and with me not working full time either, I can't budget his smokes.
So my opinion of the army an their policies. My son got the shaft. With all of this downsizing thing, my son (who was injured) got a regular discharge. Lost half of his 9/11 benefit. He was told he was being med boarded out meaning he would keep 10% of his pay and keep his Post 9/11 benefit for college tuition. Nope. So, here we are. I really feel like if a soldier gets injured they should not be screwing them out of their benefits to 'save money'. It is not acceptable. Just my opinion no hatemail please.
Also, trying something new. It is a product called Tru. Helps with weightloss. I just finished day one on 3/30/15. So we will see as I go forward. I also gave up SODA! OMG> WHAT WAS I THINKING!?!?!?! I quit smoking myself because I can't quantify that into our budget and then no soda........and starting a new pill to lose weight. But on day 1 my energy level was soo high. I was like surprised. I mean I have not been low energy persay but, I feel a marked increase in my energy level. I like it. I will keep you in tow on that one too. I took before pics and measurements. I am not using my scale because I definitely think something is wrong with it. NO Im not saying there is no way i weigh that much. What i am saying, is that it says i gained 60 lbs since we moved here. But a lot of my clothes from up there are fitting looser. So..........not really possible to gain that much weight but have loose fitting clothing...just saying.
Our house! Well my living room is DONE!!! ZMy Kitchen is DONE! My dining rom is 98% done. My craft room 98% done. Today, craft room will be finished and my green room will be in progress and hopefully my dining room will be done. I want to start peeling wallpaper this week.....sooo.....we will see.
Ok so this now ends the meandering of my post for today! Have a great one and God Bless!
Monday, March 16, 2015
Dapne Gator Walk - Daphne, AL
Daphne, Al. A gulf coast town right over the bay from Mobile, Al. Just off I-10 it offers lots of opportunities to shopping and much more. But, right off the main drag of route 98. You will find a little gem of a walking route. It is called the Gator Walk. The day we went it was in January so the gators, if they were there, were probably still hibernating. We did however, get to see some turtles and a bird. It was beautiful still even without the gators being there. But we are hoping it warms up soon so we an go see them some more!
It is a leisurely walk. You will often walk past people fishing or other people hoping to spot a gator. (Its a big deal down here). There are 2 parts you may have to play a little frogger to get over to the other side which is where I took the picture above and the next photo.
It really is gorgeous there. Not a long walk so great to bring kids. But don't go in January. Definitely no gators were present to view at that point, but my understanding from locals is they are there when it warms up. An older gentleman was walking past and was talking to us. He told us one day there was a guy fishing on the side where the above two photos were taken and he watched as the guy pulled in a fish, well started to. Till the gator popped up and grabbed it. Yup. Gotta be careful. note to self.
People around here seem to be pretty relaxed about gators. Which I find amusing I think. For example, one woman told us, 'we use to swim around them. They won't bother you.' Um ok. Not trying that just saying. One of my husbands coworkers says he kayaks around gators a lot and if you go to the bay area people feed them so they will come right up to your boat you just tap them and move on. (Guess who isn't getting in a kayak in the bay. (I am however dying to go on an airboat ride. That will happen when it warms up a little more. )
I will withhold my rating until we can go down in better weather for gators. I am sure the presence of gators will up my rating. So be watching for a follow up on Gator Alley!
Sunday, March 15, 2015
Selfish Plug - But really they are great shoes!
So, I recently started to do home parties for a company called Fibi and Clo. They sell sandals. First of all what drew me in was...they were having a shoe sale. Living in Alabama now, things like sandals are way more appropriate more of the year. So, ok cool. I can sell these I live in the Gulf Shores area. Why not.
I spoke with my friend who was already selling them. She told me the story. I am going to tell you the story now. This whole company started because the married couple that started it fell in love. Ok well that sorta started it. Michael and Analiza are husband and wife. She decided to design shoes. Well, actually sandals. They had 100 pair made to see what would happen. They just sold like hotcakes. Their family and friends loved them. And so a brand was born.
(By the way these photos are mine. I took them when I got my new shoes. I was so excited.) My biggest question was ok great they are blingy. I love them but I always hit my feet and when I have bling on my shoes poof gone. Well I noticed when I got my sandals they came with replacement small stones. Which is awesome. But what about the big ones? Well then I find out you just call your rep or call the company they will mail you out stones to replace the ones in your shoes. Um yes please! That is awesome. That is great my shoes will be good as long as I own them. You can't get that anywhere else.
I absoutely adore these shoes. The best part is...they are made not to be clunky. A good fit will have your heel towards the end of the shoe and your toes maybe half an inche from the other end. The top of the shoe is what people are seeing. And comfortable. Definitely yes. So very comfortable. These styles were made so you can wear them just shopping or out to a formal event. They are literally an everywhere shoe.
If you want to check out what they have, go to www.fibiandclo.com/lynnjansen
From there you can email me with any questions you may have about how styles run etc. I hope to hear from you soon so we can make your feet half as beautiful as you!
I spoke with my friend who was already selling them. She told me the story. I am going to tell you the story now. This whole company started because the married couple that started it fell in love. Ok well that sorta started it. Michael and Analiza are husband and wife. She decided to design shoes. Well, actually sandals. They had 100 pair made to see what would happen. They just sold like hotcakes. Their family and friends loved them. And so a brand was born.
(By the way these photos are mine. I took them when I got my new shoes. I was so excited.) My biggest question was ok great they are blingy. I love them but I always hit my feet and when I have bling on my shoes poof gone. Well I noticed when I got my sandals they came with replacement small stones. Which is awesome. But what about the big ones? Well then I find out you just call your rep or call the company they will mail you out stones to replace the ones in your shoes. Um yes please! That is awesome. That is great my shoes will be good as long as I own them. You can't get that anywhere else.
I absoutely adore these shoes. The best part is...they are made not to be clunky. A good fit will have your heel towards the end of the shoe and your toes maybe half an inche from the other end. The top of the shoe is what people are seeing. And comfortable. Definitely yes. So very comfortable. These styles were made so you can wear them just shopping or out to a formal event. They are literally an everywhere shoe.
If you want to check out what they have, go to www.fibiandclo.com/lynnjansen
From there you can email me with any questions you may have about how styles run etc. I hope to hear from you soon so we can make your feet half as beautiful as you!
Saturday, March 14, 2015
Winterjam 2015 - Volunteering for Building 429
So, my daughter LOVES (yes it is capitalized for a reason) Building 429. She saw online where she could volunteer for the band and get to meet them. She begged us to please let her do this. So we agreed. We were just going to hang out in Mobile maybe wander town a little etc. Well, then she told them we would also volunteer if they needed someone. And guess what...as luck would have it they did.
This is my daughter in her Building 429 volunteer gear. Looking like a minion. We sold CDs that were only available at the concert. (Yes we bought one too!) So, we sold before the show then we got to go in and watch the show. Amazing. There were so many good groups. We were in back....but still got to enjoy it. Here are a few pics.
Yes amazing! We had a blast. Then we got to go meet the band for a few minutes. Probably the coolest part was the singer, Jason Roy, walked by us. I saw him and was like he looks familiar. (ya know they look different in person). He stopped turned around and shook our hands and thanked us for being there. It was very cool. When we met them they were so sweet. Jason spoke about how people told him to give up so many times. Said he would never make it but look at him now. They also debuted their song Impossible at the show.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NvmAqN4FCrI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
It was really uplifting. And an amazing event. I was so touched. We then wandered the halls checked out the different performers tables. Got a few CDs (hey they were $5 or $10.) Then we met this guy. Told us that the lead singer wasn't very nice. I said hmm..you look an awful lot like him. Definitely the lead singer of About a Mile. They are so awesome.
Winterjam was amazing. It was great to be surrounded by other Christians enjoying the music and celebrating faith. Sincerely. I was humbled. The man who spoke Tony Nolan. Said something I think everyone should think about. He said, everyone on social media is posting selfies of what they want the world to see. Just remember God sees through your selfie. And he does.
Winterjam gets a 5 star rating. If you have the opportunity to go to this any time you should really go. It was an awesome experience.
This is my daughter in her Building 429 volunteer gear. Looking like a minion. We sold CDs that were only available at the concert. (Yes we bought one too!) So, we sold before the show then we got to go in and watch the show. Amazing. There were so many good groups. We were in back....but still got to enjoy it. Here are a few pics.
Yes amazing! We had a blast. Then we got to go meet the band for a few minutes. Probably the coolest part was the singer, Jason Roy, walked by us. I saw him and was like he looks familiar. (ya know they look different in person). He stopped turned around and shook our hands and thanked us for being there. It was very cool. When we met them they were so sweet. Jason spoke about how people told him to give up so many times. Said he would never make it but look at him now. They also debuted their song Impossible at the show.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NvmAqN4FCrI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
It was really uplifting. And an amazing event. I was so touched. We then wandered the halls checked out the different performers tables. Got a few CDs (hey they were $5 or $10.) Then we met this guy. Told us that the lead singer wasn't very nice. I said hmm..you look an awful lot like him. Definitely the lead singer of About a Mile. They are so awesome.
Winterjam was amazing. It was great to be surrounded by other Christians enjoying the music and celebrating faith. Sincerely. I was humbled. The man who spoke Tony Nolan. Said something I think everyone should think about. He said, everyone on social media is posting selfies of what they want the world to see. Just remember God sees through your selfie. And he does.
Winterjam gets a 5 star rating. If you have the opportunity to go to this any time you should really go. It was an awesome experience.
Friday, March 13, 2015
Build a Bear - Spanish Fort, AL
So, I know my children are grown. But that doesn't mean that sometimes it isn't fun to go to Build-A-Bear. It was really fun. It was neat to see all the new ideas they had for bears and animals. It was the Friday before Valentines day. My husband, my daughter and myself said ok lets do something cool for valentines as a family. My daughter said what about Build-a-bear? And we were off.
The store is in this cute little mall area that feels more like a big city open mall. We walked in and saw all the possible stuffing options. My husband did not want to make a bear. But we did. I got the pink camo bear. My daughter has an obsession with Pandas. Has since she was like 3. Its wierd. But I digress. Anyhow, she got a rainbow panda! Too cute for words!
There is my bear getting stuffed. I didn't do the dance thing, but since my husband had never been to a build a bear, I did make my daughter do it. Poor thing. She is my guinea pig. But she had fun. We opted out of clothing, shoes or accessories. Just got the bears. Off we went. Happy with our bears and then out to dinner. Her bear has joined her papasan chair full of pandas. (At some point I will take photos of her chair. You have to see it to believe the amount of panda's that she has collected over time. She is just addicted to them. She can even go to a machine that has a single panda option put in a quarter and get whatever panda item they have in there haha.
So we took home our bears. We didn't name them or anything crazy....well not yet. That may happen. Who knows. Here are our complete bears.
Aren't hey cute! We love them. So it seems build a bear is cheaper than I recall. I remember them being much more expensive when my children were small. These bears were only $20. And you can get clothes as cheap as $5. I was very impressed with the prices and the variety. Even for adults I give Build-A-Bear a 5 star rating. The employees were amazingly friendly. The store was very clean and organized and they really have a great variety for everyone!
The store is in this cute little mall area that feels more like a big city open mall. We walked in and saw all the possible stuffing options. My husband did not want to make a bear. But we did. I got the pink camo bear. My daughter has an obsession with Pandas. Has since she was like 3. Its wierd. But I digress. Anyhow, she got a rainbow panda! Too cute for words!
There is my bear getting stuffed. I didn't do the dance thing, but since my husband had never been to a build a bear, I did make my daughter do it. Poor thing. She is my guinea pig. But she had fun. We opted out of clothing, shoes or accessories. Just got the bears. Off we went. Happy with our bears and then out to dinner. Her bear has joined her papasan chair full of pandas. (At some point I will take photos of her chair. You have to see it to believe the amount of panda's that she has collected over time. She is just addicted to them. She can even go to a machine that has a single panda option put in a quarter and get whatever panda item they have in there haha.
So we took home our bears. We didn't name them or anything crazy....well not yet. That may happen. Who knows. Here are our complete bears.
Aren't hey cute! We love them. So it seems build a bear is cheaper than I recall. I remember them being much more expensive when my children were small. These bears were only $20. And you can get clothes as cheap as $5. I was very impressed with the prices and the variety. Even for adults I give Build-A-Bear a 5 star rating. The employees were amazingly friendly. The store was very clean and organized and they really have a great variety for everyone!
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Let go and let god they say.....I am OCD and that makes me a planner.......so....hows that working out for me?
In May 2014, I found out by an urgent news update from the local news station in Quincy, IL that my husbands plant would be closing 150 people would be losing their job. My husband wasn't even given the chance to tell me himself. (Not my husband at that time but...). We talked about it. We prayed about it. (Yes I pray and I am a Christian although I am sure some people will think I'm not based on the way I think). I said well God has a plan for us. We just have to wait and see what it was.
We urgently moved up the wedding. Lost our deposit on our dream reception hall. Downsized the wedding to just family and went for it early. Had to let the church pick a date because we needed to move it up significantly. But we didn't know if he would have a job. They were talking about layoffs starting in September. So August it was. Praying that we would find a job for him. Praying that things would work out. He started asking around, I did too. Did anyone have openings. What we got back is well this company is hiring but, they are also stating that there may be layoffs and those positions may not be filled. We heard sure we will hire you for half what you make now.
Yes the prospect of any job should have been good. Here in lies the problem. My job ran anywhere from 8 am to 6 pm. My schedule changed weekly. I had already been trying to find a second job so that we could try to do the debt free thing using my second job but no one could work around my schedule. We had a house payment, we had just bought a van a few months before the announcement and it would ruin our credit to lose it. It just all seemed too much. But I just kept praying.
Then we got the moving information and the offer to move to Alabama. I felt like it would be easier for me to look for a new job than it would be for him. I didn't have 17 years invested with a company that I would lose. And although probably a pay cut, the cost of living is a little lower and I just prayed. I told my husband whatever decision he made, I would follow him or I would stay there with him and we would figure it out. He decided we would go to Alabama.
This was going to be hard. I had already moved away from most of my family but, I had only in the last few years developed a relationship with my brothers and my mother (that is for another post). My husband had always lived with his parents till I met him. His entire family lives there and he doesn't have any family anywhere else really.
So we agreed to move. My husband came down here and picked out a house for us. We moved down here lived in temporary housing. None of our stuff was with us to speak of. Alone, no vehicle for some time and just lost. Then we got to the new house. We started unpacking. We tried to get out and about but it has been hard. I can't tell you how many positions I have applied for. And nothing. I get calls from Monster.com. Positions that are in Mobile. In and of itself that doesn't seem bad, however, the closest one is about 40 minutes away without traffic. So that could lead to an hour to an hour and a half each way if there is an accident or traffic. I really was not wanting to do that. I sincerely would prefer a 15 - 20 minute drive. Plus there are bridges so many bridges and well, to be honest bridges petrify me.
So I wait. My son comes home on Sunday because he was injured while serving in the army. We will be a full house. And I am not able to sleep and feel like I am functioning on borrowed energy. Just stressed out at this point. I really need to find a job. Have social interactions.
And then there is the whole find a church thing. Oy sincerely, the way some people in the south think just scares the bejeebers out of me. I had posted that I felt like it was a good thing that they were going to allow gay marriage in Alabama and I was literally attacked by 112 people telling me I was going to hell. I was a horrible person. No way I was a Christian. I was like where have I moved to that they have twisted the bible so much. My bible says to love one another. Love the sinner not the sin. In no way should I judge anyone else just myself. And I will continue to live that way. Period.
Well enough complaining. I am letting go. I am letting god. But that rock bottom looks pretty close. I am praying he finds me the right job so that I can start contributing to the household. I sincerely do not wish to just be sitting here not contributing financially to my family. I have always worked since I was 15. So although I am kicking and screaming I am trying to let go and let god. It is just getting harder while pushing in on a year.
We urgently moved up the wedding. Lost our deposit on our dream reception hall. Downsized the wedding to just family and went for it early. Had to let the church pick a date because we needed to move it up significantly. But we didn't know if he would have a job. They were talking about layoffs starting in September. So August it was. Praying that we would find a job for him. Praying that things would work out. He started asking around, I did too. Did anyone have openings. What we got back is well this company is hiring but, they are also stating that there may be layoffs and those positions may not be filled. We heard sure we will hire you for half what you make now.
Yes the prospect of any job should have been good. Here in lies the problem. My job ran anywhere from 8 am to 6 pm. My schedule changed weekly. I had already been trying to find a second job so that we could try to do the debt free thing using my second job but no one could work around my schedule. We had a house payment, we had just bought a van a few months before the announcement and it would ruin our credit to lose it. It just all seemed too much. But I just kept praying.
Then we got the moving information and the offer to move to Alabama. I felt like it would be easier for me to look for a new job than it would be for him. I didn't have 17 years invested with a company that I would lose. And although probably a pay cut, the cost of living is a little lower and I just prayed. I told my husband whatever decision he made, I would follow him or I would stay there with him and we would figure it out. He decided we would go to Alabama.
This was going to be hard. I had already moved away from most of my family but, I had only in the last few years developed a relationship with my brothers and my mother (that is for another post). My husband had always lived with his parents till I met him. His entire family lives there and he doesn't have any family anywhere else really.
So we agreed to move. My husband came down here and picked out a house for us. We moved down here lived in temporary housing. None of our stuff was with us to speak of. Alone, no vehicle for some time and just lost. Then we got to the new house. We started unpacking. We tried to get out and about but it has been hard. I can't tell you how many positions I have applied for. And nothing. I get calls from Monster.com. Positions that are in Mobile. In and of itself that doesn't seem bad, however, the closest one is about 40 minutes away without traffic. So that could lead to an hour to an hour and a half each way if there is an accident or traffic. I really was not wanting to do that. I sincerely would prefer a 15 - 20 minute drive. Plus there are bridges so many bridges and well, to be honest bridges petrify me.
So I wait. My son comes home on Sunday because he was injured while serving in the army. We will be a full house. And I am not able to sleep and feel like I am functioning on borrowed energy. Just stressed out at this point. I really need to find a job. Have social interactions.
And then there is the whole find a church thing. Oy sincerely, the way some people in the south think just scares the bejeebers out of me. I had posted that I felt like it was a good thing that they were going to allow gay marriage in Alabama and I was literally attacked by 112 people telling me I was going to hell. I was a horrible person. No way I was a Christian. I was like where have I moved to that they have twisted the bible so much. My bible says to love one another. Love the sinner not the sin. In no way should I judge anyone else just myself. And I will continue to live that way. Period.
Well enough complaining. I am letting go. I am letting god. But that rock bottom looks pretty close. I am praying he finds me the right job so that I can start contributing to the household. I sincerely do not wish to just be sitting here not contributing financially to my family. I have always worked since I was 15. So although I am kicking and screaming I am trying to let go and let god. It is just getting harder while pushing in on a year.
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Adventure Island - Gulf Shores, AL
We were looking for something fun to do. It was a gorgeous day and my daughter said let's find mini golf we found somewhere. It is the best place EVER!!!!
There is a huge arcade inside. There is a diy karaoke cd ( I still need to go back and do that.). A cotton candy machine that makes it to order. Also has fortune tellers.
You earn tickets in the arcade you can trade in for stuff. Just like other amusement places. Really a lot of fun though. But now, why did we go there? MINIGOLF! You have two courses one is called Spyglass. Just as a note if you are afraid of heights DO NOT choose this one. You go up on top of a mountain to play a round. It is insane. I'm petrified of heights just saying. I will not do spyglass again. haha. But the people in my party were like oh look at that and look at this and i was just like I'm gonna die! So, that being said. For most people they are both amazing. Just us lillylivers over here that don't like heights. We had a great time. And it was just a ton of good hearted family competition.
Even furries like to play at Minigolf here! Yes those are furries in the background. A whole group of them. I bet they had a blast!
So price was pretty fair for mini golf. A fun time was had by all. We had a ton of tickets for $20 worth of play. I will tell you the Wizard of Oz game..don't kill your money trying to get the green coin, it's only worth 5 tickets. I figured it would be worth like 100 so I kept playing. I got one but was disappointed when it was only worth 5 tickets.
I give this place a 5 star rating. There is so much to do and it was a ton of fun. Didnt break the bank. I think for about $40 our whole family had a blast. Yes you could definitely spend more, but you don't have to!
There is a huge arcade inside. There is a diy karaoke cd ( I still need to go back and do that.). A cotton candy machine that makes it to order. Also has fortune tellers.
You earn tickets in the arcade you can trade in for stuff. Just like other amusement places. Really a lot of fun though. But now, why did we go there? MINIGOLF! You have two courses one is called Spyglass. Just as a note if you are afraid of heights DO NOT choose this one. You go up on top of a mountain to play a round. It is insane. I'm petrified of heights just saying. I will not do spyglass again. haha. But the people in my party were like oh look at that and look at this and i was just like I'm gonna die! So, that being said. For most people they are both amazing. Just us lillylivers over here that don't like heights. We had a great time. And it was just a ton of good hearted family competition.
Even furries like to play at Minigolf here! Yes those are furries in the background. A whole group of them. I bet they had a blast!
So price was pretty fair for mini golf. A fun time was had by all. We had a ton of tickets for $20 worth of play. I will tell you the Wizard of Oz game..don't kill your money trying to get the green coin, it's only worth 5 tickets. I figured it would be worth like 100 so I kept playing. I got one but was disappointed when it was only worth 5 tickets.
I give this place a 5 star rating. There is so much to do and it was a ton of fun. Didnt break the bank. I think for about $40 our whole family had a blast. Yes you could definitely spend more, but you don't have to!
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Did you know Mardi Gras Started in MOBILE, AL
I know I know, everyone knows about Mardi Gras in NOLA. And we are only 2 hours away. But, the original Mardi Gras started many years ago in Mobile, Al. We got to experience our first Mardi Gras season with our move to the greater Mobile area. We went to a bunch of parades.
Dauphin Island, AL
Mobile A (that is the route)
Daphne, AL
Bay Minette, AL
We learned very quickly, after being told we would become bead selective...that you get a ton of beads! Over the four parades we got over 20 lbs of beads! Seriously over 20 lbs! It was amazing. Tons of other cool stuff too. Light up sword, stuffed animals, footballs and then there are the coveted items!
As you can see we got a LOT of Moonpies. I personally do not enjoy those....but everyone else in my house ADORES them! See the beads! And the frisbies! So cool right. Of course my husband catching that light up sword in mid air was so awesome to see! No we don't have small children but.....even us adults like toys. Especially when they look like light sabers. Just saying.
There are two items that are a must catch....above the beads. Above the moonpies. And when you see them flying through the air you can only pray you get one. (not gonna lie one we found walking back. I could have jumped up and down because we now collect them....
CUPS!
The Krewe's do cups. With their logo for that year. Some just do a logo and stick with it. But either way..cups are precious!
COINS! Dabloons! Yes must have!
You will see people walking slowly through the streets after the parade hoping to find some. They are coveted and also have the Krewe's information. One of our friends found a last year model and a this year model. How cool is that!
If you are going to come to Mardi Gras I have some tips!
1. Get there early! If you want a prime parking spot and a prime location to really see the parade....get there early.
2. Bring something long with you. Whether it be a grabber or a rake. You will need something to reach out and grab items that do not quite make it to the barricades. Sometimes these are coveted items.
3. Watch out. Everyone says Mardi Gras is for kids and yes it is but......there are some parents who feel like they don't have to watch their kids and more than once this year I was stepped on, pushed out of the way by or kicked by a kid. They saw us trying to grab something through the fence and pushed me out of the way and took it. Not really well behaved I guess. I mean we actually had intended on seeing what it was first and probably passing it off to a kid that didn't seem to have caught a lot but...anyhow.
4. Ask which parades to go to. Our personal reference. Dauphin Island we will not do again. Just not a big parade for so many people that show up. Daphne Shadow Barons - AMAZING! Mobile A - Amazing (we saw Conde Caveliers amazing) Bay Minette - Small but a secret stash load. They have lots of throws for a smaller amount of people. I call this the sleeping giant parade. One parade people were posting they caught bootleg DVDs and pregnancy tests and mini nippers. That is the one that anyone can join the krewe and I guess can throw anything but I am sure that I don't need to catch a pregnancy test. Just saying.
5. Bring a bag to carry your stash. Like a reusable grocery bag or something. And a clip to hold the bag to the barricade. Like one of those rappelling clips that everyone uses for different things works best.
6. Even if you can't stand right up front its ok. People on these floats will launch stuff. Seriously launch it. Even in the back you will get stuff.
MOST OF ALL HAVE FUN! See you next year for Mardi Gras. Check out the Mobile Mask for lots more information about Mardi Gras and videos too on Facebook or on their website!
Dauphin Island, AL
Mobile A (that is the route)
Daphne, AL
Bay Minette, AL
We learned very quickly, after being told we would become bead selective...that you get a ton of beads! Over the four parades we got over 20 lbs of beads! Seriously over 20 lbs! It was amazing. Tons of other cool stuff too. Light up sword, stuffed animals, footballs and then there are the coveted items!
As you can see we got a LOT of Moonpies. I personally do not enjoy those....but everyone else in my house ADORES them! See the beads! And the frisbies! So cool right. Of course my husband catching that light up sword in mid air was so awesome to see! No we don't have small children but.....even us adults like toys. Especially when they look like light sabers. Just saying.
There are two items that are a must catch....above the beads. Above the moonpies. And when you see them flying through the air you can only pray you get one. (not gonna lie one we found walking back. I could have jumped up and down because we now collect them....
CUPS!
The Krewe's do cups. With their logo for that year. Some just do a logo and stick with it. But either way..cups are precious!
COINS! Dabloons! Yes must have!
You will see people walking slowly through the streets after the parade hoping to find some. They are coveted and also have the Krewe's information. One of our friends found a last year model and a this year model. How cool is that!
If you are going to come to Mardi Gras I have some tips!
1. Get there early! If you want a prime parking spot and a prime location to really see the parade....get there early.
2. Bring something long with you. Whether it be a grabber or a rake. You will need something to reach out and grab items that do not quite make it to the barricades. Sometimes these are coveted items.
3. Watch out. Everyone says Mardi Gras is for kids and yes it is but......there are some parents who feel like they don't have to watch their kids and more than once this year I was stepped on, pushed out of the way by or kicked by a kid. They saw us trying to grab something through the fence and pushed me out of the way and took it. Not really well behaved I guess. I mean we actually had intended on seeing what it was first and probably passing it off to a kid that didn't seem to have caught a lot but...anyhow.
4. Ask which parades to go to. Our personal reference. Dauphin Island we will not do again. Just not a big parade for so many people that show up. Daphne Shadow Barons - AMAZING! Mobile A - Amazing (we saw Conde Caveliers amazing) Bay Minette - Small but a secret stash load. They have lots of throws for a smaller amount of people. I call this the sleeping giant parade. One parade people were posting they caught bootleg DVDs and pregnancy tests and mini nippers. That is the one that anyone can join the krewe and I guess can throw anything but I am sure that I don't need to catch a pregnancy test. Just saying.
5. Bring a bag to carry your stash. Like a reusable grocery bag or something. And a clip to hold the bag to the barricade. Like one of those rappelling clips that everyone uses for different things works best.
6. Even if you can't stand right up front its ok. People on these floats will launch stuff. Seriously launch it. Even in the back you will get stuff.
MOST OF ALL HAVE FUN! See you next year for Mardi Gras. Check out the Mobile Mask for lots more information about Mardi Gras and videos too on Facebook or on their website!
Monday, March 9, 2015
Making a Munny for a contest!
When we got our Lootcrate(tm), we received a Munny. He was 7" tall and just a white figure. My daughter has been trying to talk me into getting her a blank to design something. So far haven't done it. Couldn't quite grasp it. SO with Lootcrate announcing that they will be holding a contest we jumped in. We bought fur (fake) and some clay and took some fabric that I have and paint and beads and she started working.
Above you can see how the munny started. This pic is it out of the box and on our table. And she was ready to go. Here are some pics as it progressed.
Doesn't look like anything yet right? Nope it doesn't, but she was working hard. And really enjoying herself. She put the beads in for eyes. And then layered the face and put ears on the top of its head. She definitely took her time and really formed things like the nose and mouth. Although right now it doesn't look like much. It will be something awesome.
She was adding the furr individually and painted the burlap to be the same color as in her reference picture.
Can you tell what she made...think geek! Ok I'll help you a little bit...
She made an ewok! How cool right. She did a good job. Hopefully she wins! She would be thrilled. You can win a years worth of lootcrate and other awesome prizes. I know she is hoping for Lootcrate for sure! Good luck! Hope you win!
Above you can see how the munny started. This pic is it out of the box and on our table. And she was ready to go. Here are some pics as it progressed.
Doesn't look like anything yet right? Nope it doesn't, but she was working hard. And really enjoying herself. She put the beads in for eyes. And then layered the face and put ears on the top of its head. She definitely took her time and really formed things like the nose and mouth. Although right now it doesn't look like much. It will be something awesome.
She was adding the furr individually and painted the burlap to be the same color as in her reference picture.
Can you tell what she made...think geek! Ok I'll help you a little bit...
Sunday, March 8, 2015
Loot crate...not quite a hootcrate but still cool.
We decided to try out Lootcrate! We got our Febuary Lootcrate. People who had received theirs were giving mixed reviews. I was nervous. Was our first box going to be a dud? Oh no! But we finally got ours....after the reveal on the website so I learned my first lesson once you know they have shipped do NOT go on the website until you have yours in your hands. Lesson learned.
The big black box came. Not going to lie. The reason we decided to sign up said that there was a special edition of a popular card game. They fuzzed out black and white cards and we were sure it was cards against humanity (i will save that for another post we love this game). So we signed up. We already had a clue what was in our box but we were excited to see if it was worth the $20 we spent including shipping to get it.
There are two ways to gauge if your box was worth it. One could be value. Actual prices of stuff. For example. In the box was a 7" Munny figure to craft on. Those retail for $19.99 online. ok so basically everything else.....bonus right? Well in the box there was a hex bug, a book, a rock paper scissor dice game and Superfight. (nope not cards against humanity, insert sigh here). Well superfight is not my thing but my daughter LOVES IT!
So, that is our box. The box also turns into a game. Game pieces etc were in the box. Oh and a firefly code. We don't play it so if anyone wants a code feel free to post on here that you can use it and I will gladly pass that along as a FREEBIE!
At first I thought, no this isn't worth it to me, but, seeing how much my daughter enjoyed decorating her munny for their contest....and playing the games and knowing how much my son will probably enjoy the book we definitely got more than our money's worth. Both in numbers and in enjoyment. Not every geek or nerd is the same. So maybe this box wasn't for me but my kids love it!
So all in all four thumbs up for lootcrate. Mine came after the reveal....so if i wouldn't have happened upon the reveal before my box came might have been more fun. (working on seeing what happens next time.
The big black box came. Not going to lie. The reason we decided to sign up said that there was a special edition of a popular card game. They fuzzed out black and white cards and we were sure it was cards against humanity (i will save that for another post we love this game). So we signed up. We already had a clue what was in our box but we were excited to see if it was worth the $20 we spent including shipping to get it.
There are two ways to gauge if your box was worth it. One could be value. Actual prices of stuff. For example. In the box was a 7" Munny figure to craft on. Those retail for $19.99 online. ok so basically everything else.....bonus right? Well in the box there was a hex bug, a book, a rock paper scissor dice game and Superfight. (nope not cards against humanity, insert sigh here). Well superfight is not my thing but my daughter LOVES IT!
So, that is our box. The box also turns into a game. Game pieces etc were in the box. Oh and a firefly code. We don't play it so if anyone wants a code feel free to post on here that you can use it and I will gladly pass that along as a FREEBIE!
At first I thought, no this isn't worth it to me, but, seeing how much my daughter enjoyed decorating her munny for their contest....and playing the games and knowing how much my son will probably enjoy the book we definitely got more than our money's worth. Both in numbers and in enjoyment. Not every geek or nerd is the same. So maybe this box wasn't for me but my kids love it!
So all in all four thumbs up for lootcrate. Mine came after the reveal....so if i wouldn't have happened upon the reveal before my box came might have been more fun. (working on seeing what happens next time.
Saturday, March 7, 2015
Pensacon - Pensacola Comicon OMG
So, last weekend we went to Pensacon. It is Comicon in Pensacola Florida. Amazing. Lets just start with that! Just awesome! We had so much fun! Now, my personal view. Yes there were a lot of vendors there but really not as large as somethings I have been to and a lot of areas were just missed.
My daughter dressed up as Hipster Ariel. Apparently there were only three Ariel's there all weekend. She was the only one on Sunday when we went. Which was fun for her. People asked to take photos with her and she kind of felt like a star. Next year though we are making some crazy costumes.
Ok so good stuff, there were some amazing stars. I got to meet Lita Ford. My daughter got to meet her dream boat since she was a child the Blue Ranger Billy. No she won't use his real name. He will always be her Blue Ranger. My daughter also posed with a cosplay star and Roy from Faceoff. Those were awesome moments. Unfortunately, (downside sorry) they charge so much for photos with them. You are taking a photo with your own phone or camera but, they charge you $20. So some people were more than $20 like the guys from Game of Thrones.
There were people there charging $40 just to take a photo with them. Ok I get that it is awesome to get to meet your favorite stars. But, that is just highway robbery. The stars are getting this money. The event has already paid just to have them show up. And they make a ton of money just by doing their job in whatever movie or show they are in. It makes no sense. These are your fans. It doesn't seem cool that you will say ok $20 for a two second photo. I get it people pay. We did but honestly we would have done more if they were more reasonably priced. Like Roy. He was only $10. He is a master craftsman at his job. And yet he gets it. at $10 each we could have done five or six people.
Instead at $20 and $20 and $10 we did three.
As far as the vendors. We had heard that there was going to be a japanese candy vendor. (My daughter adores everything japanese candy.) Well there wasn't one. There was a ton of vendors selling the same teeshirts and the same pop figures. SO you had to wander. Because the same Pop figure that was $12 at one vendor was $30 at another. Seriously $30. Ok so yours is still sitting there and the $12 guy is sold out. Makes sense. Jack up your prices. Don't get me wrong. I am a home party person. I understand wanting to make your money back for your table. But the people who sold them at more reasonable prices made their tables and probably more than they would have made it at their local shop.
Don't get me wrong I understand this is an event. Things at events are expensive but we paid $40 per person to go for one day! That is $120 and there was a HUGE line to get in. So you know that they made a ton of dough. Especially since that day Nichelle Nichols was there. Considering Leonard Nimoy passed away on day 1. I'm just saying there should be some allowances where it doesn't cost a family $500 for a day to go there. They had photo ops but you had to pay for those too. So it was just crazy!
The costumes Some people sincerely went all out. I have never seen so many amazing costumes. This guy was awesome and agreed to take a picture with my daughter. And there were all kinds of people in costume. Some we easily recognized others......not so much. But as we walked through some started making sense because we would see them in a poster. Oh that's who that was! We got it. But people really put 100% into their costumes if they dressed up. Even parents dressed up their kids. It was just a lot of fun.
Yes I am a Whovian. I love anything Dr. Who. I do however, prefer the older versions. Have not really been able to get into the new ones. Guess I am in the old school Who clan. But, it was awesome to see all the Dr. Who stuff. Even small children dressed up like Dr. Who and Rose. A few of the Doctor Who characters were there. 7th Doctor and a few others. It was pretty cool. I didn't pay for a photo he wanted $40 for a photo. Um I like Dr. Who but he isn't Tom. So............no thanks.
The above photo is a child's (who's parents are awesome!) costume. Who doesn't love it! I know I did. but WHO wouldn't really. haha. Yes...I know corny. So, we did spend a little money while we were there. Got a few buttons, a couple of pop figures (the $12 ones) and my daughter got some holographic Black Butler bookmarks. She is addicted.
So overall, was it fun.....yes. Was it work $250 we spent.....yeah probably. It only comes once a year. What I would suggest for people going to events like this. OK here they our my tips!!!
1. Find out when presale tickets go on sale. Do NOT wait till last minute! Last minute adds $5 to your ticket!
2. If you know an event like this comes to your area. Feel free to start a savings jar. You will want to see what expected pricing will be on tickets or if you don't know base it off last years and add $5 (inflation sucks!) Also as you see them add guests you may want a photo with add $20 to your savings goal per person. Also add a spending money for misc items. Now you know what you like. Is it $60 for a sword? $15 for a POP figure. Figure out what you want to spend per person for fun money and add it up all year. Don't forget parking!! Unless you get VIP, parking costs money!
3. One this small, you do not need a whole weekend it is rather pointless. Pick a day that has the most stuff you want (ie exclusive parties etc) and buy a ticket for that date. Pensacon doesn't really require a 3 day unless they get a bigger place and more stuff to do.
4. Plan your costume in advance! It will be a blast to dress up. But make sure you love it too!
5. Find out the layout. Make sure you have a plan. What does everyone want to do. Make sure you know the rules!
#6 Most of all HAVE FUN WHEN YOU GO! Go early. Get in line and have a blast! If you like to play games like magic the gathering etc. Have your best deck ready.
Oh and I mentioned I met Lita Ford...yes yes I did......
My daughter dressed up as Hipster Ariel. Apparently there were only three Ariel's there all weekend. She was the only one on Sunday when we went. Which was fun for her. People asked to take photos with her and she kind of felt like a star. Next year though we are making some crazy costumes.
Ok so good stuff, there were some amazing stars. I got to meet Lita Ford. My daughter got to meet her dream boat since she was a child the Blue Ranger Billy. No she won't use his real name. He will always be her Blue Ranger. My daughter also posed with a cosplay star and Roy from Faceoff. Those were awesome moments. Unfortunately, (downside sorry) they charge so much for photos with them. You are taking a photo with your own phone or camera but, they charge you $20. So some people were more than $20 like the guys from Game of Thrones.
There were people there charging $40 just to take a photo with them. Ok I get that it is awesome to get to meet your favorite stars. But, that is just highway robbery. The stars are getting this money. The event has already paid just to have them show up. And they make a ton of money just by doing their job in whatever movie or show they are in. It makes no sense. These are your fans. It doesn't seem cool that you will say ok $20 for a two second photo. I get it people pay. We did but honestly we would have done more if they were more reasonably priced. Like Roy. He was only $10. He is a master craftsman at his job. And yet he gets it. at $10 each we could have done five or six people.
Instead at $20 and $20 and $10 we did three.
As far as the vendors. We had heard that there was going to be a japanese candy vendor. (My daughter adores everything japanese candy.) Well there wasn't one. There was a ton of vendors selling the same teeshirts and the same pop figures. SO you had to wander. Because the same Pop figure that was $12 at one vendor was $30 at another. Seriously $30. Ok so yours is still sitting there and the $12 guy is sold out. Makes sense. Jack up your prices. Don't get me wrong. I am a home party person. I understand wanting to make your money back for your table. But the people who sold them at more reasonable prices made their tables and probably more than they would have made it at their local shop.
Don't get me wrong I understand this is an event. Things at events are expensive but we paid $40 per person to go for one day! That is $120 and there was a HUGE line to get in. So you know that they made a ton of dough. Especially since that day Nichelle Nichols was there. Considering Leonard Nimoy passed away on day 1. I'm just saying there should be some allowances where it doesn't cost a family $500 for a day to go there. They had photo ops but you had to pay for those too. So it was just crazy!
The costumes Some people sincerely went all out. I have never seen so many amazing costumes. This guy was awesome and agreed to take a picture with my daughter. And there were all kinds of people in costume. Some we easily recognized others......not so much. But as we walked through some started making sense because we would see them in a poster. Oh that's who that was! We got it. But people really put 100% into their costumes if they dressed up. Even parents dressed up their kids. It was just a lot of fun.
Yes I am a Whovian. I love anything Dr. Who. I do however, prefer the older versions. Have not really been able to get into the new ones. Guess I am in the old school Who clan. But, it was awesome to see all the Dr. Who stuff. Even small children dressed up like Dr. Who and Rose. A few of the Doctor Who characters were there. 7th Doctor and a few others. It was pretty cool. I didn't pay for a photo he wanted $40 for a photo. Um I like Dr. Who but he isn't Tom. So............no thanks.
The above photo is a child's (who's parents are awesome!) costume. Who doesn't love it! I know I did. but WHO wouldn't really. haha. Yes...I know corny. So, we did spend a little money while we were there. Got a few buttons, a couple of pop figures (the $12 ones) and my daughter got some holographic Black Butler bookmarks. She is addicted.
So overall, was it fun.....yes. Was it work $250 we spent.....yeah probably. It only comes once a year. What I would suggest for people going to events like this. OK here they our my tips!!!
1. Find out when presale tickets go on sale. Do NOT wait till last minute! Last minute adds $5 to your ticket!
2. If you know an event like this comes to your area. Feel free to start a savings jar. You will want to see what expected pricing will be on tickets or if you don't know base it off last years and add $5 (inflation sucks!) Also as you see them add guests you may want a photo with add $20 to your savings goal per person. Also add a spending money for misc items. Now you know what you like. Is it $60 for a sword? $15 for a POP figure. Figure out what you want to spend per person for fun money and add it up all year. Don't forget parking!! Unless you get VIP, parking costs money!
3. One this small, you do not need a whole weekend it is rather pointless. Pick a day that has the most stuff you want (ie exclusive parties etc) and buy a ticket for that date. Pensacon doesn't really require a 3 day unless they get a bigger place and more stuff to do.
4. Plan your costume in advance! It will be a blast to dress up. But make sure you love it too!
5. Find out the layout. Make sure you have a plan. What does everyone want to do. Make sure you know the rules!
#6 Most of all HAVE FUN WHEN YOU GO! Go early. Get in line and have a blast! If you like to play games like magic the gathering etc. Have your best deck ready.
Oh and I mentioned I met Lita Ford...yes yes I did......
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