Lightify - A Whole New Way to Light up Your Life

   

If you've ever worried about leaving your house in the dark while going on vacation, or wish you'd left the outside light on when going out for the evening, the Sylvania/Osram Lightify LED System will literally, and figuratively, brighten your day. If you've ever wished you could change the colour of your bulbs to accommodate any given holiday or festivities at the drop of a hat, you can do that too. It's pretty cool! 

The Lightify System essentially consists of special Lightify lightbulbs, known as lamps, and a downloaded free app on your smartphone or tablet. Powered by your Wi-Fi connection, you can adjust your light settings and turn them on or off. You can do this whether you are in your home, or anywhere in the world, simply by using the mobile app.

Not only can you turn them on or off to make it seem like you are home while away on vacation, you can also manipulate the brightness level as well. If you have a coloured bulb, you can also play with the colour of light emitted, and adjust it any time you want.  You can also control up to 50 Lightify light bulbs at a time, simply by using the app. The Lightify systems also allows you to utilize the bulb's special features, such as a wake up light, tricking you into thinking the sun is rising. This is particularly timely given that daylight savings time is about to end. 

Out of those 50 Lightify light bulb lamps that you could have, you can leave them as individual lamps, or organize them into rooms, or into other groups that work for you. This way you can control a bunch with one single flip of a proverbial switch. You can also set the colour that the bulb will emit individually, or in a group. For example, with Hallowe'en coming up, you could have one bulb emit orange, another purple, and so on. If you decided to, you could still use your lamp in the traditional way, manually turning it on and off, even with the Lightify bulb in it.  

To get started with the Lightify System, you will require a smartphone or tablet, the free Lightify app, an internet connection using a Wi-Fi router, as well as, the Lightify Starter Kit. You can then expand from there. The free app is available for download from iTunes or the Google Play Store, and will require a minimum of either an iOS 7, or Android 4.1 to function on your smart device.

As previously stated, the Lightify App is free for download. The Lightify Starter Kit, which includes 1 white bulb, retails for $54.99USD/$84.99CAN. Each additional Lightify White Bulb is about $29.99USD/$37.99CAN, and the Lightify Colour Bulb retails for approximately $39.99USD. The Colour Bulbs are just about to arrive on Canadian shelves, and so far, do not have a manufacturer's suggested retail price as of yet. If I had to venture a guess, I'd imagine they would likely be at least $45-$50CAN, per bulb. The Lightify system and accessories are currently sold in Canada at Lowes, Co-op, and some Loblaws company stores, to name a few. In the U.S., you can purchase these items at stores like Lowes & Home Depot.

While they are not cheap, they are innovative and definitely have a practical piece to them. Whether you had one bulb, or a bunch of them, there are so many ways to configure and utilize these bulbs. As a woman with a family, the best way for me to use them is to trick people into thinking we are home when we're away, and to turn on our front porch light when we happen to come home later than expected.  The packaging does indicate that they can be used in outdoor lighting, if the temperature outside is between -20°c to +40°C (-4°F to +104°F).

Like any electronic or device, there is always a health statement. These Lightify products are to be used with a minimum distance of 20cm away from your body. So just be sure that these bulbs are placed in lamps that are at least, that distance away. And as always, which should go without saying, always be sure to read and apply all safety guidelines & instructions when using any product. 

For more information on what cool features Lightify offers, simply visit their Features page. 

It really is a "bright" idea!

***** These views are mine, and mine alone. As with anything, you are responsible for assessing whether this item and/or activity is safe and suitable for your specific needs. InfoMommy does not make any warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, and assumes no responsibility and/or liability for any actions taken as a result of this blog post. *****

Pioneer Woman Kitchenware Has Hit Canadian Shelves!

   

For those of you who are Canadian Ree Drummond/Pioneer Woman fans, you'll be thrilled to learn that some of her kitchenware is now available here in Canada, exclusively at Walmart.

While her Canadian selection is not nearly as plentiful in variety as in the U.S., there are quite a few items that most would find not only functional, but adorable.  

In Canada, you will find casserole dishes, measuring and serving bowls, dinnerware sets, glassware, the famous Charlie Cookie Jar, and a slew of other items to complement your kitchen. 

From the Canadian line, I sampled the Pioneer Woman Flea Market 2-Piece Ceramic Bakeware Casserole Set. And from the American line, the Pioneer Woman Charming Check Tablecloth, as well as, the Pioneer Woman Vintage Speckle 12-Quart Stock Pot. 

The Pioneer Woman Flea Market 2-Piece Ceramic Bakeware Set comes with a medium sized 2.3qt floral casserole dish, as well as, a turquoise 3.6qt baker. They both have ruffled edges, and nest nicely together, making them easier to store. Both these bakers are oven safe, dishwasher safe, as well as, microwave safe. The jury is still out on whether or not they are freezer safe. I am waiting to hear back from the manufacturer to confirm whether or not these are actually freezer safe, as the packaging does not indicate either way. As soon as I hear back from them, I will update this section of the review. This set retails for approximately $20USD/$28CAN, and as stated, is available in both Canada, as well as, the U.S. 

The Pioneer Woman Charming Check Tablecloth is aptly named - it's definitely charming! It comes in a variety of lengths and shapes to fit most dinner tables, and is the exact same turquoise/teal colour as the rest of her line. The tablecloth is comprised of a 75% cotton/25% polyester blend, and is machine washable. The Charming Check Tablecloth retails for approximately $14-$19, depending on the size chosen. You can also purchase matching napkins and placemats, if you wish to have complete place settings. We have a harvest table, and this color scheme looks great against the rustic design of our table. 

The Pioneer Woman 12 Quart Stock Pot, allows you to make large batches of soup, stew, chili and other items in one pot. It comes in both red and turquoise, and is oven safe up to 500F. It is hand wash only, which can seem like a disadvantage, But truth be told, it would be difficult to get this pot into the dishwasher anyway due to its size. This Stock Pot retails in the U.S. for approximately $35USD. 

Overall, I really like these items. The tablecloth was great, and complements my kitchen well. The bakeware set is as delightful as Ree Drummond herself. With that being said, I do hope that they are freezer safe. If they aren't, then that would be a bit of a disappointment. I like to make a bunch of extra casseroles at a time and freeze them. Not having freezer safe bakeware takes away some of the functionality of the item. When reading consumer reviews on the stock pot, there were some comments left regarding the enamel sometimes chipping off of this pot, as well as, food sticking to the bottom. I didn't find that food stuck to the bottom if you had it at the right heat for what you were cooking. I even made Ree Drummond's Refried Beans recipe in this pot and it worked just fine. I didn't find that I had to stir or check the beans any more often than I would using another pan or pot. I also made tomato sauce in it, and it did not stick, burn or stain the pot. I did notice upon receipt of the stock pot though, that there were a few very tiny specks of enamel missing off the exterior bottom of the pot. The enamel inside the pot has been just fine for me so far. I hope it stays that way, as this pot isn't only esthetically pleasing, it's very practical.

In the U.S., you can find so many more Pioneer Woman items. I hope that we eventually get the wide selection here in Canada too! In the meantime, there are plenty of great items available to get your collection started.

To check out some other great Pioneer Woman items available in the U.S., please visit my previous review when her items launched in the U.S.

***** These views are mine, and mine alone. As with anything, you are responsible for assessing whether this item and/or activity is safe and suitable for your specific needs. InfoMommy does not make any warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, and assumes no responsibility and/or liability for any actions taken as a result of this blog post. *****

PAW Patrol Pups Rescue Kids' Bath Time! The Latest in Bath Decor & Essentials are Now Available!

   

American children are going to be ecstatic once they discover that PAW Patrol bath items have arrived in store at Walmart and online at Walmart.com! So far there is no release date for when these items may start appearing on Canadian shelves. But for the moment, these rescue pups' paws will be upholding the law in America when it comes to cute and functional bath decor and & essentials like wash cloths and towels! 

We recently got a number of these bath items for review. We were about to put them to use, when we decided to give the bathroom a fresh coat of paint first, and give these items a proper inauguration. We purposely chose a paint colour that would tie in the existing fixtures with the PAW Patrol decor, and it looks great! The kids are thrilled, and have also been more motivated to keep their bathroom clean and organized. 

When it comes to PAW Patrol bath decor and bath linens, Walmart pretty much has everything covered. Whether you prefer basics like the PAW Patrol Fabric Shower Curtain and various towels, or functional decor like the PAW Patrol Toothbrush Holder, they've got all sorts of stuff in between. You'll find PAW Patrol Hooded Towel Wraps, a Foam Bath Rug, a Waste Basket, Shower Curtain Hooks, Wash Cloths, Hand Towels, and a Tub Mat. You'll also find other items such as the 2-Piece Towel Set, as well as, seasonal items like regular Beach Towels & Hooded Beach Towels. There are even more items available at Walmart.com. 

All in all, I found these bright and colourful items to be great quality for the price. The towels and wash cloths are soft and pretty thick. I would venture a guess that they'd easily last a few years with proper laundering. The Shower Curtain & Hooks are not only adorable but functional. The Toothbrush Holder has 3 wide slots in it, making it suitable for most toothbrush sizes. The Liquid Soap Dispenser is a great addition to not only decor, but in encouraging hand washing amongst little ones in particular. The floor mat is well padded, and the tub mat is narrower and longer than most tub mats, perfect for when you're bathing 2 kids at once. No more butt cheeks slip sliding around!  

If you are on a budget and are interested in only a couple of items instead of the whole line, I would suggest the 2-Piece Towel Set, which includes both a decent sized bath towel, as well as, a Chase wash cloth. Those sets retail for approximately $9.88USD. In my opinion, the Hooded Towel Wraps, retailing for about $12.88, are adorable, but are best suited for kids 3yrs and under. They could be too short if you've got a taller kid aged 3 or above. The full sized towel included in the 2-Piece Towel Set would be a better bargain, getting more use out of it long term. 

Other pricing is as follows, and may vary from location to location: 

Fabric Shower Curtain $19.98USD

Shower Curtain Hooks $8.88USD

Bath Towel $8.88USD

Hand Towel $7.88USD

6-Piece Wash Cloth Set $8.88USD

Bath Rug $14.88USD

Tub Mat $9.88USD

Waste Basket $9.99USD

Toothbrush Holder $9.88USD

Soap/Lotion Pump $9.99USD

Initially, you may find a limited supply of these items at your local Walmart, as they are just starting to roll out into certain locations. The entire line is available now though, at Walmart.com.

If your kids were hoping for PAW Patrol bath items, but you live in Canada, you could consider getting them PAW Patrol bedding instead. Both Boys' & Girls' PAW Patrol bedding is available in Canada, as well as, the U.S., and should satisfy their desires until the bath items are released in Canada. I'm just hoping that they will eventually release a more feminine version of these bath products down the road, like they did by adding traditional Girls' bedding. After all, Skye & Everest need a bath too! :) 

This should go without saying, but never, ever, leave children unattended in or near water. These products are not toys, and are for use under the supervision of a responsible adult only.

 ***** These views are mine, and mine alone. As with anything, you are responsible for assessing whether this item and/or activity is safe and suitable for your specific needs. InfoMommy does not make any warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, and assumes no responsibility and/or liability for any actions taken as a result of this blog post. *****

Girls' PAW Patrol Bedding Has Arrived and is as PAW-Rriffic as the Boys'!

   

My followers know that those in our household are avid PAW Patrol fans. Ok, well really it's the kids. But if they love it, at some point we have to embrace it too.

We were thrilled to hear that girls' PAW Patrol bedding is now available in the U.S. & Canada, and that more will be released later this fall. Many a Skye & Everest fan would enjoy traditionally feminine bedding, and it's nice to see that it's been added to the line. If I were younger, I'd want it for myself! 

You can now find girls' PAW Patrol Twin Sheets, a Twin/Full Reversible Comforter and a Plush Throw Blanket at Walmart, both in store and online. The sheets are cute as a button! The fitted sheet has a whole bunch of different pink and purple PAW Patrol decals. The flat sheet is lined with pink and purple stripes which feature PAW Patrol lingo. For kids with a double bed, the girls' version of the Full Sheet Set and Blanket is expected to be released this October. In the meantime though, the Twin/Full Reversible Comforter would a great first addition. The Twin/Full Comforter would be many a girl's dream with its polka dots, flowers and pink and purple colours. Not to mention that Sky & Everest are the main power pups prominently displayed. Girl power! The Plush Throw is soft, fluffy, and oh so cozy. We have the boys' version of all these, and my both my boys love it.

Speaking of the boys' version, it's just as PAW-riffic!  My youngest nearly flipped his lid when he saw the bedding for his room. The boys' sheet sets already come in both Twin and Full sets. In addition, they have a Twin/Full Reversible Comforter, a full sized Puppy Rescue Plush Blanket, and as previously mentioned, the Plush Throw. 

The Twin Sheet Sets retails for approximately $19.88USD/$29.94CAN, and the Full Sheet Sets for $29.98USD/$39.94CAN. The Twin/Full Reversible Comforter is about $29.88USD/$49.94CAN. For the full sized Plush Blanket, you're looking at $22.88USD/$39.94, and for the Plush Throw, $14.88USD/$24.94CAN. 

While I do think that children's licensed bedding in general is getting to be a bit expensive, the pricing of these items are competitive. Bedding should be a bit of an investment, given that one typically spends 8-10 hours a night in bed. You'd want it to go the long haul. When you factor in that PAW Patrol is a newer cartoon, as well as, the bright, bold patterns, it's practically a given that these will stay trendy for, at the very least, a few years to come. 

There are even more PAW Patrol items in select stores, and widely available at Walmart.com & Walmart.ca, such as the Mink Sherpa Throw and Cozy Hat & Throw Wrap Set.

In the U.S. specifically, they've also just launched a whole PAW Patrol bath decor & essentials line. They've got some great stuff in that line as well. No word yet on when the bath items will be available on Canadian shelves.

If your kids are fans of the PAW Patrol crew, then they'll love snuggling with them - all night long!

***** These views are mine, and mine alone. As with anything, you are responsible for assessing whether this item and/or activity is safe and suitable for your specific needs. InfoMommy does not make any warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, and assumes no responsibility and/or liability for any actions taken as a result of this blog post. *****

Thermos FUNtainer Products are a FUNtastic Option for Back to School!

   

Thermos has been a household brand for decades. Quality products, appealing designs and cost effectiveness have all got to be reasons why they've stuck around for so many years.    

   

Part of back to school shopping starts with thinking about how to pack and transport food & drink. As a parent, I know I'm always considering what's going to work best, actually last the course of the school year, and not cost me a fortune. 

My kids have been using Thermos FUNtainer products for the last few years. Not only do they love their trendy designs, I love them as a parent. They are functional, do not leak when closed, keep drinks and food at the right temperature, and are easy to clean. The great thing about Thermos FUNtainer products, is that they meet everyone's needs and preferences without breaking the bank.

Thermos FUNtainer Bottles are geared for kids 3 years and over, and keep a 12oz drink cold for up to twelve hours. They are constructed of stainless steel and feature a pop up lid which allows easy access to a BPA-free sippy straw inside. They are designed for use with cold drinks and the lids have a pull up handle for easy carrying. The sippy straw components all come apart very easily, making it simple and quick to wash each and every piece.  With so many sippy cups being recalled recently for mould growth inside the straws, this is a great alternative. 

Thermos FUNtainer Food Jars hold up to 10oz, and will keep your child's hot foods hot until lunch time, up to 5 hours. Like the Bottle, these Food Jars are also constructed of stainless steel. We've used them successfully for soup, mac & cheese, chicken fingers, fries, boiled hotdogs, as well as, many a leftover. These Food Jars are also suitable for cold products and will keep them cold upwards of 10 hours. The Food Jars have wide mouths, and like the bottles, are super easy to clean.

As pictured, we chose the Paw Patrol and Lime Green set this time around. My oldest is 8 years old & preferred something a bit more "distinguished" this year, choosing to go with a solid colour. Whether your child would be more drawn to a solid colour or a themed design, there's something for everyone. From Wonder Woman to Finding Dory, to Batman to The Minions, there's a design to capture most children's interest. On average, Thermos FUNtainer Bottles and the Food Jars retail in both Canada and the U.S. for approximately $12-$19 each, and are widely available both in store and online at a variety of retailers.   

Though hand washing is recommended for both the bottles and the food jars, it is not a must. All parts are dishwasher safe on the top rack. Washing them in the dishwasher may affect the longevity of the images on the outside of the bottle, but the one we used last year throughout the school year survived the dishwasher use just fine. These products also come with a 5 year limited warranty.

One year, my son decided to chew on the sippy straw, creating a hole in it. Luckily, I found out that you can order replacement sippy straws for only $1 each by calling Thermos directly at 1-800-831-9242. That's much better than replacing the entire bottle!  

Overall, we've been pleased with these and other Thermos products we've gotten since my son started school a few years ago. Last year, we had a Thermos Batman Lunch Bag for him. Despite being used daily for the duration of the school year, it barely has any wear on it and is still in fantastic shape. 

I'm sure my kids will love these products again this year, just as much as they have in the past. (And so will I.)

***** These views are mine, and mine alone. As with anything, you are responsible for assessing whether this item and/or activity is safe and suitable for your specific needs. InfoMommy does not make any warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, and assumes no responsibility and/or liability for any actions taken as a result of this blog post. *****