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Dad of Divas

One Dad's Quest to Regain Control of his Kingdom

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30 Years of Learning With Brain Quest

May 9, 2023 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

Brain Quest

 

It’s hard to believe that Brain Quest® has been around for 30 years! I can still remember when this first came out, and as I had kids myself, I found that I was purchasing their items to use with my kids. The workbooks always challenged my kids, and they found them to be fun, interactive, and engaging.

As my own kids would go through each of the workbooks they had I found them loving to learn and over the years I kept finding that the products that were being developed were challenging the old norms and helping kids to find mastery in so many new ways.

The 30 year anniversary this year launched with My First Brain Quest® in January – the brand’s first foray into the preschool market. What was great about this was that it really allows a preschool age child to get a jumpstart on learning. The series is based on educational principles with a series of six board books that introduce parents and their young child to foundational skills while promoting language development and encouraging learning through conversation.

Today, a revised edition of eight of the core Brain Quest workbooks have been published. With more than 30% new material in each workbook covering Pre-K through 6th grade, you will find that the workbooks have a ton of fresh content throughout, that includes:

  • Brand new chapter openers
  • Expanded Brain Boxes
  • A brand new technology section (computer science, logic, coding, and more)
  • Greater diversity in visual representation
  • Revised, updated social studies sections
  • Playful additions, including two pages of fun stickers and progress maps that kids can use to track and celebrate their success for most grades.

In addition to the workbooks getting a major overhaul, the brand’s very first and longest selling line, the iconic Brain Quest Smart Cards®, did too. With nearly 30% new material in each set, these grade-specific question-and answer games quiz kids on the stuff they need to know when they need to know it.

Also new is the Brain Quest line extension: The Brain Quest Learn to Write workbook series which is a brand-new bridge between the My First Brain Quest board books and the Preschool and Kindergarten Brain Quest workbooks. These books focus on key skills for children ages 3-6, as they learn to trace and write characters and get ready for writing, reading, and math, and will publish in September.

Overall, for me the thing I like most about these books is that they are written for kids, but also written to help kids learn in a way that they will enjoy. These resources are ones that I know that I was super happy to have as a parent and I’m glad that today’s parents continue to have such amazing resources right at their fingertips!

Check out the brand new Brain Quest ® website!

Filed Under: product review Tagged With: Brain Quest, product review

A Man Called Otto Available Now!!

March 22, 2023 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

A Man Called Otto

About the Movie

Based on the # 1 New York Times bestseller “A Man Called Ove,” A Man Called Otto tells the story of Otto Anderson (Tom Hanks), a grump who no longer sees purpose in his life following the loss of his wife. Otto is ready to end it all, but his plans are interrupted when a lively young family moves in next door, and he meets his match in quick-witted Marisol. She challenges him to see life differently, leading to an unlikely friendship that turns his world around. A heartwarming and funny story about love, loss, and life, A Man Called Otto shows that family can sometimes be found in the most unexpected places.

My Take on the Movie

I love Tom Hanks, but did not know what to expect with this movie. You usually think about Tom as a happy go lucky actor in his movie. In this movie you see him in a new way. His character us heartwarming but also sad in it’s own way too, There are light-hearted moments but also moments where you are brought to the brink of tears. The movie is a drama and you have to keep that in mind to know to not watch for the comedy. You will definitely be drawn in and kept engaged by this character and by the acting of the incomparable Tom Hanks. He pulls off this character and does it with great skill while at the same time being with a great cast as well. While this is a movie that the more seasoned of us can and will appreciate, the movie will also stand the test of time for all adults to watch and appreciate!

Filed Under: Entertainment, product review Tagged With: a man called otto, entertainment, product review, tom hanks

Kirby’s Return to Dream Land™ Great Game For All Ages

March 14, 2023 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

In Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe Kirby is back for a 1-4 player* platforming adventure across Planet Popstar. I have been playing this great game over the past week and have loved it every step of the way.


In the game, float and fight along with friends on the same system as you control Kirby. Each other player can control a different Kirby or one of Kirby’s iconic friends like King Dedede, Meta Knight, and Bandana Waddle Dee.

Join forces to save the day

Take on the adventure alone as Kirby or invite other players to join the game as a different Kirby, King Dedede, Meta Knight, or Bandana Waddle Dee. You and up to 3 friends can work together to find missing ship pieces in 4-player co-op on the same system.

Kirby’s Return to Dream Land™ Deluxe

Team up for powerful Team Attacks

Combine powers with other players by riding piggyback! Just press and release the L or R buttons at the same time for a super-strong Team Attack. Effects will vary based on the number of players and who is on the bottom of the stack.

Play subgames for in-game rewards

Travel from Planet Popstar to the Merry Magoland amusement park! Play a colorful collection of subgames, collect stamps for your stamp rally, and earn in-game prizes. Share the fun with up to 3 friends on the same system.

Hop online* to see global fun facts or compete against player records from all over the world in Samurai Kirby 100.

Mask up at the Souvenir Shop

Talk to Souvenir Shop Waddle Dee to dress up each playable character with fun masks inspired by the Kirby series.

Kirby’s Return to Dream Land™ Deluxe

A brand-new story starring Magolor

Alone in a strange dimension and without his powers, Magolor must platform through challenging stages and defeat enemies. You and up to 3 friends can take control of different-colored Magolors for 4-player interdimensional action. Complete the main story to unlock this new adventure!

Power up abilities with Magic Points

Use combo attacks to earn Magic Points to enhance Magolor’s abilities. Get special items to unlock new abilities! Each player receives the same benefits as Magolor’s abilities are leveled up. Master Magolor’s moves and overcome tougher challenges along the way!

My take on the Game

While you may think this game is for children, I will tell you that I found the game to be great for all ages. The game had a ton of great subgames as well as amazing graphics and a fun storyline. I tried out the game as a single player but even more so as a team with some friends and both were equally fun, thought the team play made the game even more enjoyable. I did get to the end of the game and one of the things that was great was that there was an additional chapter after you beat the game with new levels. You play as Magolar who is stripped of all his powers and you have to work to get your powers back. This was a great extra and it added an extra 2 hours or so of game time. One of the other things I liked was that in playing the mini games you are able to earn stamps and then cash in the stamps for masks that can be used on the main levels. All-in-all this was a super fun game for the whole family and I give it two thumbs up!

Filed Under: product review Tagged With: game review, Kirby, Kirby’s Return to Dream Land, nintendo, nintendo switch, product review, video game, video games, videogame, videogames

Eco-Friendly Play. Illuminating the Imagination with Geomag Glow

March 7, 2023 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

Geomg Glow

Geomagworld has been innovating with magnets since 1998, introducing young innovators and learners to the creative and imaginative world of magnet-building fun. Through its magnetic rods and steel spheres, Geomagworld has provided a fun, constructive, and educational environment for children to explore the limitless possibilities of magnetism. For 25 years Geomag has created numerous product ranges; from Magicube, Classic Geomag in multiple color ways and themes such as Panels, Supercolor, Glitter, Glow, and for old builders comes Mechanics.  One concept, three platforms, all ages!

From building blocks to complex structures, Geomag has something for all ages. All toys are made with the utmost care and respect for the environment. Geomag is committed to reducing its environmental impact. All the company’s products are manufactured in the European Union, Switzerland, with all power used 100% renewably. To ensure their operations didn’t require any fossil fuel energy sources, the company converted their factory to run by hydropower. By doing this, Geomagworld has drastically reduced its carbon footprint and even makes its toys from 100% recycled plastic, meaning no new plastic is created in the process.

Geomag is an excellent tool for independent play and collaborative activities. Regardless of age, kids and adults can explore, experiment and create in a relaxed and interactive environment with magnetic rods and metal spheres. It encourages creativity, engineering capabilities, and problem-solving skills and encourages teamwork as it allows multiple people to collaborate to achieve their desired shape or structure. With its variety of colors and shapes, Geomag allows individuals to explore the different ways that magnets attract or repel each other, a great way to learn about magnetism! Geomag is an excellent tool for developing spatial thinking, practicing fine motor skills as well as providing hours of educational fun.

Geomag toys are STEM.org-certified toys and are perfect for a fun and sustainable learning experience. These educational toys have been carefully reviewed and evaluated to ensure that they meet rigorous standards of quality learning experiences so your children can get the most out of their playtime while learning invaluable skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The Geomag Glow range is the perfect educational toy for young children aged 3+. It includes the Geomag Glow 93-Piece Set (339) that stimulates children to explore and create amazing constructions using the power of magnets. Made with 100% recycled plastic and a natural plant-based glow it is certain to inspire creativity and develop problem-solving skills. helping to build a strong understanding of basic science concepts. The Glow rods come to life in the dark, providing an all-around mesmerizing experience for your child. With 93 pieces that connect through the power of magnetism and allow endless construction possibilities, Geomag Glow provides a stimulating and engaging environment. In the Glow range, there are also sets available in various sizes, the (328) 25-piece set, (329) 42-piece set, and the (338) 60-piece set.

All Geomag Glow sets can be added to other Geomag ranges to make even bigger sets.  As the range continues to expand, it allows the models, and the children’s achievements, to increase to impressive heights.

The Geomag (328) Glow 25 Piece Set costs $24.99 from Maisonette

The Geomag (329) Glow 42 Piece Set costs $39.99 from Maisonette

The Geomag (338) Glow 60 Piece Set costs £54.99 from Maisonette

The Geomag (339) Glow 93 Piece Set is available at Geomagworld.com

Filed Under: product review Tagged With: Geomag, product review

Kirby’s Return to Dream Land™ Deluxe Available for Pre-Order!

February 10, 2023 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

In Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe the tough puff Kirby is back for a 1-4 player* platforming adventure across Planet Popstar. Help Magolor rebuild his ship with newly added Mecha and Sand Copy Abilities!


Float and fight along with friends on the same system as you control Kirby. Each other player can control a different Kirby or one of Kirby’s iconic friends like King Dedede, Meta Knight, and Bandana Waddle Dee.

Kirby’s Return to Dream Land™ Deluxe

Join forces to save the day

Take on the adventure alone as Kirby or invite other players to join the game as a different Kirby, King Dedede, Meta Knight, or Bandana Waddle Dee. You and up to 3 friends can work together to find missing ship pieces in 4-player co-op on the same system.

Kirby’s Return to Dream Land™ Deluxe

Team up for powerful Team Attacks

Combine powers with other players by riding piggyback! Just press and release the L or R buttons at the same time for a super-strong Team Attack. Effects will vary based on the number of players and who is on the bottom of the stack.

Kirby’s Return to Dream Land™ Deluxe

Play subgames for in-game rewards

Travel from Planet Popstar to the Merry Magoland amusement park! Play a colorful collection of subgames, collect stamps for your stamp rally, and earn in-game prizes. Share the fun with up to 3 friends on the same system.

Hop online* to see global fun facts or compete against player records from all over the world in Samurai Kirby 100.

Kirby’s Return to Dream Land™ Deluxe

Mask up at the Souvenir Shop

Talk to Souvenir Shop Waddle Dee to dress up each playable character with fun masks inspired by the Kirby series.

Kirby’s Return to Dream Land™ Deluxe

A brand-new story starring Magolor

Alone in a strange dimension and without his powers, Magolor must platform through challenging stages and defeat enemies. You and up to 3 friends can take control of different-colored Magolors for 4-player interdimensional action. Complete the main story to unlock this new adventure!

Kirby’s Return to Dream Land™ Deluxe

Power up abilities with Magic Points

Use combo attacks to earn Magic Points to enhance Magolor’s abilities. Get special items to unlock new abilities! Each player receives the same benefits as Magolor’s abilities are leveled up. Master Magolor’s moves and overcome tougher challenges along the way!

Filed Under: Entertainment, product review Tagged With: entertainment, Kirby, Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe, nintendo, nintendo switch, product review

Action-Packed Trailer for Marvel Studios’ Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania

January 9, 2023 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

Super-Hero partners Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) and Hope van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly) return to continue their adventures as Ant-Man and the Wasp. Together, with Hope’s parents Janet van Dyne (Michelle Pfeiffer) and Hank Pym (Michael Douglas), and Scott’s daughter Cassie Lang (Kathryn Newton), the family finds themselves exploring the Quantum Realm, interacting with strange new creatures and embarking on an adventure that will push them beyond the limits of what they thought possible. Directed by Peyton Reed and produced by Kevin Feige, p.g.a. and Stephen Broussard, p.g.a., “Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania” also stars Jonathan Majors as Kang, David Dastmalchian as Veb, Katy O’Brian as Jentorra, William Jackson Harper as Quaz and Bill Murray as Lord Krylar. The sci-fi adventure opens in theaters on Feb. 17, 2023.

Filed Under: disney, Entertainment, product review Tagged With: ant-man, Ant-Man and The Wasp, disney, entertainment, marvel, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Comics, marvel movie, Marvel Studios, MARVEL Super Heroes, product review, Quantumania

DVD Review – The Staircase

December 26, 2022 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

The Staircase

About the DVD

Inspired by a true story, The Staircase follows writer and war veteran Michael Peterson after the suspicious death of his wife Kathleen. On December 9, 2001, Michael makes a frantic 911 call reporting Kathleen has fallen down the stairs of their Durham, NC home. But when the district attorney brings murder charges, members of Michael’s blended family must choose whose side they’re on and which version of events to believe. As the case becomes engulfed in a media circus, a French documentary film crew arrives to meticulously chronicle its many twists and turns. Intertwining multiple perspectives and timelines, this gripping limited series explores the elusive nature of truth, while serving as an intimate portrait of a family’s grief.

My Take on the Series

I always get drawn into these types of stories and this docuseries does not disappoint. The series had great actors and a storyline that really drew you in. Each episode adds to the mystery and through the episodes you really get to see and play out a number of the theories that came up in the actual case. The story is tragic and at times the series is not always easy to watch, especially as you relive the last moments of Kathleen again and again. The story is so complex and every episode really keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Filed Under: Entertainment, product review Tagged With: DVD, DVD Review, entertainment, product review, product reviews, tv

DVD Review – And Just Like That…

December 12, 2022 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

And Just Like That...

About the DVD

Get set for the highly-anticipated return of Carrie Bradshaw and her stylish, best girlfriends as Warner Bros. Home Entertainment releases the first season of And Just Like That…, the new chapter of the groundbreaking HBO series Sex and the City on DVD December 13, 2022. And Just Like That… The Complete First Season will include all 10 episodes of the show’s first season and is priced to own at $24.98 SRP. The series, which has been renewed for a second season, is also available to own on Digital via purchase from all major digital retailers and is streaming on HBO Max.

From executive producer Michael Patrick King, And Just Like That…, brings the iconic characters of Sex and the City back for exciting all-new series, which finds Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker), Miranda (Cynthia Nixon) and Charlotte (Kristin Davis) navigating the journey from the complicated reality of life and friendship in their 30s to the even more complicated reality of life and friendship in their 50s.

And Just Like That… also stars Sara Ramírez, Sarita Choudhury, Nicole Ari Parker, Karen Pittman, Mario Cantone, David Eigenberg, Willie Garson and Evan Handler.

The series is executive produced by Sarah Jessica Parker, Kristin Davis, Cynthia Nixon, Julie Rottenberg, Elisa Zuritsky, John Melfi and Michael Patrick King. Writers included King, Samantha Irby, Rachna Fruchbom, Keli Goff, Julie Rottenberg and Elisa Zuritsky. The HBO series Sex and the City was created by Darren Star and based on the book Sex and the City by Candace Bushnell.

 

10 Episodes

  1. Hello It’s Me
  2. Little Black Dress
  3. When in Rome…
  4. Some of My Best Friends
  5. Tragically Hip
  6. Diwali
  7. Sex and the Widow
  8. Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered
  9. No Strings Attached
  10. Seeing the Light

About the Series

If you are a Sex and the City fan, this is a great series that brings you up to speed on all of the great characters that you have come to love from the original series. While not all of the main characters are back, of the foursome, you will not see Samantha and her absence is hard to see and is felt in the series too. While this is the case you do get to meet a number of new characters too. The series gets into quite a few contemporary issues, challenges and problems that each of the characters are dealing with. After watching this I can say that I am excited to see season 2!

Filed Under: Entertainment Tagged With: entertainment, product review, product reviews, television

Game Review – Kirby’s Dream Buffet™

December 3, 2022 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

Kirby Dream Buffet

About the Game

In Kirby’s Dream Buffet™ you can bump, battle, and boost your way to sweet victory!

Have fun rolling through a smorgasbord of food-themed stages in delicious 4-player competition as a rounder-than-usual Kirby. Anyone can take the cake in Kirby’s Dream Buffet! This digital game is available exclusively for Nintendo Switch.

Kirby Dream Buffet

If you do not want to play against the system, battle with another player on a single Nintendo Switch family system or have even more fun battling it out with up to 4 players via local wireless or online.

The game allows you to dress Kirby in scrumptious costumes that look like Meta Knight, King Dedede, Elfilin, and more and you can customize Kirby with an array of different color options to help you start the race in style.

Kirby Dream Buffet

As you are playing the game decorate your own cake with treats that look like cookies, chocolates, and candies from the Kirby™ series of games.

My Take on the Game

I have loved playing other Kirby™ games in the past and I was interested to see what this game would be like as well. I will say that while the game is different than other Kirby™ games it is a lot of fun that will allow you to pass the time away with ease. The levels are challenging and you continue to work level by level to hone your skill to be able to have even more fun in the next level. As you are able to play against other players you will have even more fun as you compete against your friends. All-in-all I had hours of fun and I think that you will too!

Filed Under: Gift Guide, product review Tagged With: 2022 holiday gift guide, game review, gift guide, Kirby, nintendo, nintendo switch, product review

Game Review – Mario Strikers™: Battle League

November 28, 2022 by dadofdivas Leave a Comment

Mario Strikers™: Battle League,

About the Game

Do you love soccer? In Mario Strikers™: Battle League, Super Mario series mainstays like Peach, Toad, and Yoshi put their cleats (and stats) to the pitch and will stop at nothing to score.

You can customize your characters with gear that can change their appearance…and their attributes! You do have to choose carefully, though—a gear set can improve one stat but may also lower other abilities.

Mario Strikers™: Battle League,

You can bring together 8 players to go for the goal with local wireless, or online. Bring along a secondary striker on the same system in online battles, too. Locally, 4 players on each team can go cleat-to-cleat in individual matches.

Create your own double elimination tournament with up to 4 players on the same system and earn in-game coins!

Mario Strikers™: Battle League,

My Take on the Game
As a dad with two soccer players in my family I have grown to love the sport and this game really allows you to have some fun as a fan of the sport bringing together characters you know and love and power ups that are out of this world. The game does a good job at offering you a great tutorial and I encourage you to take advantage of this as some of the moves are more advanced and take some practice. Once you get through the tutorial though the game is a ton of fun. I cannot say that I am an expert yet, but I will say that it is a ton of fun and I have enjoyed every part of the game. If you are a fan of Super Mario and a fan of soccer, bring your fandom of both together with this great game!

Filed Under: product review Tagged With: nintendo, product review, super mario, video game, videogame

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