Experience Authentic Japanese Treats with Sakuraco’s February Box: A Valentine’s Delight!

In today's post, I want to share a fun idea that your family will love for Valentine's Day -- enjoy the Sakuraco February Box! With its thoughtfully curated selection of authentic Japanese snacks, this box is more than just a treat—it’s an experience that you can taste while learning about Japanese culture. From decadent chocolates to savory bites and soothing tea, this month's theme of Valentine’s Delights embodies the warmth and sweetness of the season. Plus, it even includes a beautiful cultural touch that makes this box extra special -- a Japanese wrapping cloth that you may use and reuse to wrap Valentine's or other gifts!

Let's start with the Japanese wrapping cloth! This month’s box included a stunning Plum Furoshiki—a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth. This gorgeous cloth not only adds elegance to the presentation but also carries Japan's rich heritage of gift wrapping. Our family is planning to watch videos and learn more creative ways to use this Furoshiki for wrapping gifts. It’s such a fun and meaningful addition to an already amazing box!



In my personal experience, sharing the Sakuraco box with my children was a memorable experience. We made it a family activity, taking turns picking out treats, reading about them in the included booklet, and sampling each one together. The booklet added so much to the experience—it describes the origins and cultural significance of each snack, making it feel like we were traveling through Japan from our own living room.

Everything in the February box was delicious, and it was so much fun to explore the Japanese culture of snacks! My personal favorite was the Strawberry Coated Peanuts—a perfect blend of sweet and savory that I couldn’t stop eating. My sons had their own standout favorite: the Orange Chocolate Cookie. This treat perfectly combines rich dark chocolate with the zestiness of oranges, making it an unforgettable flavor. Sharing our thoughts and favorites as a family added another layer of joy to the experience.



From the indulgent chocolate treats that felt like they were made for Valentine’s Day to the savory snacks that balanced the sweetness, this box truly had something for everyone. And the included tea was the perfect way to finish our tasting adventure, giving us a moment to relax and reflect on our favorites.

What makes Sakuraco stand out is the thoughtfulness and authenticity in every detail. This isn’t just a snack box—it’s a beautifully curated cultural experience that brings families together. Whether you’re looking to share it with your significant other, your kids, or friends, the Sakuraco February Box is guaranteed to make your Valentine’s celebration extra special.

Ordering a Sakuraco box is simple, and with flexible subscription options, you can enjoy a taste of Japan every month. Don’t miss out on this month’s Valentine’s Delights box—it’s filled with surprises that will delight your taste buds and spark your curiosity! Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just want to bring new cultural experiences to your home, this box is an unforgettable treat!

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A 30 Day Decluttering Challenge with Calendar and How Decluttering Changed My Life

I recently took on a 30 Day Decluttering Challenge that surprisingly helped me with anxiety and helped me to feel much happier.  I didn't realize how much this decluttering challenge would boost my spirits until I was a bit over halfway through the challenge and saw major difference.  Let me start with a quick overview of the challenge:

• What: 30 Day Decluttering Challenge
• Time Allocation: A minimum of 15 minutes per day for the duration of the challenge
• How: Remove items from your home that you no longer need and consider using these methods to get rid of them:
• Gift items to friends and family (We gave a lot of items to friends with children who are younger than our children. We emailed photos of available items on a weekly basis for people to claim what they wanted!)
• Sell items
• Donate items
• Recycle or track items

• Measure your progress so that you are able to reflect on your accomplishments:
• Cubic footage of items removed
• Amount of money for selling items
• Amount of time spent on tasks
• Keep a journal of what you completed each day

Personally, the consistency was important to me. Whether it was the minimum 15 minutes/day or a super productive 8 hours/day, consistent contributions made me feel like I was moving forward. I had days where I spent the entire day decluttering a room and removed as much as 7 cubic feet worth of items. I had other days where I only did the bare minimum of 15 minutes and didn't even declutter 1 cubic foot, i.e., I went through papers and shredded things or took items that I sold on eBay to the post office.  I kept a journal because it helped my motivation to reflect on my progress.  The daily journal contained:

• Day (1...30)
• Description of progress
• Measurement of the amount of items removed in cubic feet
• Amount of money received for items that were sold
• Cumulative cubic feet to-date
• Cumulative money to-date

I kept a written journal, but let me share a few graphs that show my progress.  You'll notice that there isn't really a trend to the amount of decluttering or sales each day.  While I set a goal to spend a minimum of 15 minutes/day on decluttering, I informally set a goal in my head to try to reach one cubic foot of decluttering each day.  However, I wasn't strict with the one cubic foot/day goal because I didn't know how much clutter was in our house. (It became more challenging toward the end!) As I mentioned earlier, there were days when I didn't reach the goal of one cubic foot/day because it took me a while to go through papers to figure out what to shred or scan. I also had to take items to a donation center or the post office which took time.  In the end, we decluttered 58 cubic feet. (I feel embarrassed to admit this, but at least the majority of the items went to other people who could use them and very little went to the trash. Having two children that outgrew various things accounted for a large amount of the space.) 

Here is a graph of my daily progress in terms of cubic footage.

Here is a graph of my cumulative progress in terms of cubic footage.

Another measurement of my productivity was the amount of money from items that I sold.  This was not one of my primary goals because I was much happier to give things away.  I don't enjoy selling items because I find the "people aspect" of scheduling and meeting up to be a hassle. I am also not a big eBay fan because I was once scammed on eBay and they sided with the buyer.  In any case, I did sell some items and surprised myself that the money added up quickly. Sure, I lost money if you think about how much we spent on items compared to the peanuts that we sold them for, but they were sunk costs of things that we really didn't use anymore.  For instance, my baby never liked his baby swing and it was easy to sell for half of what we paid. We paid $100 and sold it for $50.  In the end, we collected a good amount of money by selling items that were taking space without being useful to us.   (Again, I feel guilty that we had that much stuff just sitting around, but am glad that the items went to people who could use them and that we received some of our investment back from the money spent on the items.)

Here is a graph of my daily progress in terms of dollars.

Here is a graph of my cumulative progress in terms of dollars.

Now that you've seen my progress, let me share my decluttering calendar.  In general, I recommend that you do whatever makes sense for your personal situation, but for me, I thought that a calendar like this would be helpful for those days when I felt like, "I don't know what to do today..."  You will be able to skim my calendar and see if there is anything that make sense for your personal situation. You will also notice that every Wednesday was an "*EMAIL DAY." Throughout my decluttering, I took photos of items that I was getting rid of and sent weekly photos to family and friends to offer for them to take anything that I was cleaning out.  This was a fun way to keep my momentum since others enjoyed being part of my decluttering mission.

After completing a 30 Day Decluttering Challenge, I feel happier and realize that the extra "stuff" was causing me anxiety and weighing me down.  In some ways, I understand how it happened. Our lives have changed in many ways over the years. When we were first married, we had more time for recreation such as riding our bicycles together or individual projects like crafts, sports, and more.  When our children were young, they needed various things that they quickly outgrew. (That baby bathtub was truly useful for the first few months! The special infant carrier was also handy.  I don't think that I could have lived without our Baby Bjorn at the time. The list is long...)   However, where we went wrong was that we did not regularly reflect on the changes in our lives and declutter at the appropriate phases of life. We allowed clutter to build for several years.  These were the downsides of not decluttering sooner:

• The clutter cost us space. 
• The clutter cost us time in terms of cleaning or even when we needed to search for items that were hidden behind clutter. We even moved clutter from one house to another.  
• The clutter cost us money as we could have sold many items for more if we sold them when they weren't as old.  
• The clutter cost us a bit in terms of anxiety as we were surrounded by "stuff" and an ongoing thought hanging over us that we needed to declutter.   

Now that the decluttering is done, our home is cleaner and life is more efficient.  The outcome was wonderful for us.  It was a lot of work, but there were some bright spots along the way:

• We emailed or texted photos of random items to friends and family to ask if they wanted anything.  I'm sure that they thought that I was crazy at times (like, what are you doing with so many Star Wars costumes?), but they appreciated our thoughtfulness and were kind to support us with the Decluttering Challenge.  It was fun when people wanted items.
• We dropped off donations and appreciated that the items would probably go to good use.
• We sold items to people who were often excited and appreciated the great deals.
• We collected several hundred dollars that we put to good use
• We were able to reorganize our home, including everything from entire rooms to cabinets so that things looked nicer and were easier to find

Now that the 30 Day Decluttering Challenge is over, I feel proud of my accomplishments.  It was easier to let go of "things" than I imagined. I surprisingly let go over some anxiety too.  I'd like to say that we purchase fewer things after the decluttering challenge, but really, our habits were never that excessive.  We are just better about letting go of things sooner rather than later.  For instance, once my husband finishes playing a video game, he trades it in promptly rather than letting games fill a shelf. Once soccer season is over, we donate the uniform and move on.  I've also held on to the "consistency" aspect of the challenge, but instead of decluttering for a minimum of 15 minutes/day, I spend a minimum of 15 minutes/day speed cleaning. I set a timer and clean as much as possible in 15 minutes. It's a great way to direct some of my energy!

Good luck in your decluttering endeavors. I hope that you find bright spots along the way and feel a sense of accomplishment!

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The 2025 Girl Scout Cookie Lineup: Flavors, Prices, and Where to Buy

The 2025 Girl Scout Cookie Season is officially here as of TODAY! Cookie fans in Northeast Texas are ready to help our girls shine with cookie sales and indulge in sweet treats! This year’s lineup features classic flavors and premium treats, all while supporting the entrepreneurial efforts of local Girl Scouts. Whether you’re stocking up on favorites like Thin Mints® or trying the decadent Adventurefuls™, there’s a cookie for everyone.

Here’s all the information you need about this year’s lineup, pricing, and what makes Girl Scout Cookies extra special! 

2025 Girl Scout Cookie Lineup and Prices

Classic Cookies – $6 per box:

• Adventurefuls™ – Brownie-inspired cookies with caramel-flavored crème and a touch of sea salt.
• Lemon-Ups® – Crisp lemon cookies with motivational messages.
• Trefoils® (Shortbread) – Classic buttery shortbread.
• Do-si-dos® (Peanut Butter Sandwich) – Oatmeal cookies with creamy peanut butter filling.
• Samoas® (Caramel deLites®) – A mix of caramel, toasted coconut, and chocolate stripes.
• Tagalongs® (Peanut Butter Patties®) – Peanut butter topped with chocolate.
• Thin Mints® – The cool and chocolatey favorite.

Premium Cookies – $7 per box:

• Girl Scout S’mores® – Graham sandwich cookies with chocolate and marshmallow.
• Toffee-tastic® – Rich, buttery gluten-free cookies with toffee bits.

Are you wondering about the allergens in Girl Scout cookies for those with food allergies? You'll find the Girl Scout Cookie Allergen info for 2025 here.

What Makes Girl Scout Cookies Special?

All Girl Scout Cookies are crafted with care and meet strict quality standards:

• No High-Fructose Corn Syrup
• No Partially Hydrogenated Oils (PHOs)
• Zero Grams Trans Fat per Serving
• RSPO Certified (Mass Balance) Palm Oil – Supporting sustainable palm oil production.
• Halal Certification

These cookies are not just delicious—they’re responsibly made!

When Is Cookie Season in Northeast Texas?

The 2025 Girl Scout Cookie Season runs from January 10 to March 2, with cookie booths starting January 24.

Each box of cookies helps fund our local troops, supporting activities like STEM programs, camping, and community service projects. Plus, you can give back through the Community Cookie Donation Program, which provides cookies to first responders, veterans, and other local heroes.

Where to Buy Girl Scout Cookies

1. From a Girl Scout You Know: Reach out directly or order via her Digital Cookie® link.
2. Cookie Booths: Use the Girl Scout Cookie Finder to locate a booth near you. Booths open in Northeast Texas starting January 24.
3. Direct Shipping: Beginning February 21, use the Girl Scout Cookie Finder to order cookies for delivery to your home.

Visit Norma’s Café  for the Norma’s Café x Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas Collab!

This year, Norma’s Café has partnered with Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas to create a special dessert celebrating the 2025 cookie season. From January 10 to February 23, customers can enjoy a limited-edition s’mores pie, inspired by the beloved Girl Scout S’mores® cookie. This decadent pie features a silky chocolate cream filling topped with fluffy marshmallow meringue and crumbles of Girl Scout S’mores® cookies. Not only is it a delicious treat, but it’s also a celebration of the Girl Scouts’ commitment to fostering leadership, confidence, and community connections. Visit any Norma’s Café location to grab a slice and support a sweet cause!

Stock up for Valentine's Day!

The next big holiday is Valentine's Day! I have a fun tradition of buy Girl Scout cookies to show love for our local Girl Scouts and also to celebrate with my own children. They look forward to helping me to make Girl Scout Cookies Dusted with Powdered Sugar Hearts!  He are the directions for this fun and festive project!

DIY Girl Scout Cookies Dusted with Powdered Sugar Hearts

Supplies

• 1 box of Thin Mints
• 1 box of Tagalongs
• 2 Tablespoons of powdered sugar
• 1 piece of parchment paper

Directions

1. Fold a piece of parchment paper in half and cut out the shape of a heart.  
2. Place the stencil tightly over a cookie.
3. Sift powdered sugar onto a cookie. 
4. Carefully remove the stencil to reveal the heart. 
5. Optionally dust extra powdered sugar onto the cookies after you finish the hearts!

We encourage you to support local Girl Scouts as they pursue their entrepreneurial goals and build valuable life skills! Their cookies are undeniably delicious, but the opportunity to empower and uplift these amazing girls in our community is even sweeter. We hope you enjoy indulging in your favorite flavors and discovering creative ways to make the most of your Girl Scout Cookie experience!

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We’re OBSESSED with Tokyo Treat!

If you follow regularly, you know that we love Tokyo Treat! You may have also heard of it in Buzz Feed, Forbes, NY Times, Cosmopolitan, Wired, and more. This subscription box has become a beloved ritual in our home, and the December 2024 box has totally knocked it out of the park! From the moment we opened it, we were in awe of how generously packed it was with incredible treats. Every single item felt so thoughtfully curated and festive—it’s like unwrapping a little piece of Japan in every box. In today's post, I encourage you to visit Tokyo Treat and sign up for a subscription to enjoy with your family in the new year!  This is a box that makes my own kids light up!

Each Tokyo Treat box is generously packed with Japanese favorites. The curators of this box do an incredible job choosing treats for the box and linking the snacks to Japanese culture. One of our absolute favorite parts? The adorable booklet that comes with the box! It’s not just packed with details about the snacks—it’s a mini journey into Japanese culture. My kids are learning so much, and honestly, so am I.

There are many ways to enjoy your Tokyo Treat box. Here’s how we enjoy our Tokyo Treat tradition:

1. Step 1: We take turns picking treats and set them aside. It’s so much fun seeing who picks what and why! There’s always excitement (and a little debate) about what to try first.
2. Step 2: We open each treat in the order in which they are listed and described in the booklet. Whoever has the treat, reads the entry aloud — what it is, why it’s special, or even how it ties into Japanese culture.
3. Step 3: We share! Every treat is split so everyone gets to taste, no matter who picked it. It’s a beautiful moment of connection, laughter, and, sometimes, discovering new favorite flavors together.

This month’s highlights? The wintery chocolate-coated treats, the savory snacks that reminded us of cozy evenings, and those adorable seasonal candies that are just too cute to eat (but we ate them anyway).

We've also loved the Ramen soups that have always been amazing!

Thank you, Tokyo Treat, for making this such a fun and educational experience for my family. We can’t wait to see what’s in next month’s box! If you’re considering trying Tokyo Treat, we HIGHLY recommend it for family fun and memories!

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Trendy Mom's 2024 Holiday Gift Guide!

 

We are beyond thrilled to share our Holiday Gift Guide with you! After months of carefully curating the perfect collection, we started working on it back in August, and now it's finally time to unveil it. This year, we’re adding a fresh twist — we’ll be updating the guide throughout the season, keeping things sparkling and fun as we add more over-achieving products that are sure to light up the holidays. Whether you're looking for gifts that make memories shine or whimsical treasures that bring joy to all ages, we’ve got something for everyone.

From nostalgic gifts that bring back those warm, happy childhood memories to glowing, magical items that make the season feel even more special, our guide is designed to inspire. So, join us as we continue to add even more wonderful finds throughout the season. Get ready for a gift-giving experience that’s as delightful as it is festive!

Visit our:

• Holiday Gift Guide for Moms
• Holiday Gift Guide for Teens
• Holiday Gift Guide for Children

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How to Set Up a Home Gym for Your Teen for Between $1,000 to $1,500 During Black Month 2024!

As parents, we all know the struggle of keeping up with our teens' growing needs—and expenses! Between driving lessons, car insurance, and saving for college, every dollar counts. Yet, when our teen expressed a desire to work out at home, we couldn’t ignore the importance of encouraging healthy habits that can set a positive foundation for life. If your teens are similar to mine, they may have requested home gym equipment. After hours and hours of research - both in-store and online - I am here to share some helpful things that I learned! I'm also going to point you to an epic sale at RitFit for home gym equipment!

We started our search by visiting local in-person stores. Boy, were we in for some sticker shock! Local stores had impressive setups, but prices ranged from several thousand to well over $10,000. Plus, delivery and installation fees were extra. This simply wasn’t in our budget.

I turned my search online and came across RitFit! They offer high-quality, reasonably priced equipment that allows families like ours to create a dream home gym without breaking the bank. This Black Friday, you'll find incredible deals at RitFit. A couple to highlight include:

• $999.99 for the Black Month Sale: RitFit M1 Multi-Functional Smith Machine 2.0 with Cable Crossover System and Squat Rack for Home Gym
• $1,460.79 for Black Month Sale: RitFit PPC03 Power Cage Home Gym with Cable Package (This is the price if you take advantage of the 12% off deal!)

In my personal experience, we tried the RitFit PPC03 Power Cage Home Gym with Cable Package. The quality is wonderful and it has become a staple at our home! I waited a month to post because we wanted to truly try it out with the many different features and report back to all of you. It has been incredible! My son is up around 5am daily to use this equipment.  The only exception is if he has to get to sports practice early.  I love that this makes him happy to get out of bed and start the day with healthy habits that I hope stay with him throughout life!  The machine is versatile and allows him to vary his workouts with the different attachments.   It's such a game-changer for his lifestyle!

I also love using it myself. My son is obsessed with fitness and weightlifting, so I feel like I have my own personal trainer. (Isn't fun when our kids want to teach us things, but even better when it's not to teach us about video games?!)

I also have to tell you about the delivery and DIY installation. When you see the prices above, I feel like this deal is even better than I initially realized. This is because they ship the parts in several boxes that arrive over a few days. I loved this because we could slowly move boxes from our porch to the garage as they arrived without feeling overwhelmed. It felt very manageable. On a Saturday morning, we easily assembled everything within a few hours. I thought that it would take the entire weekend, but it was quick and easy! We didn't need any special tools. The RitFit team designed this so that we could build it on our own without needing to hire anyone to help us with installation! (I'm so glad that I didn't go with some of the local in-store options that charged for installation!)

While I shared our experience above, let me share a few more thoughts. When we saw the price of the RitFit Power Cage, we were skeptical. Could it really be that good for such a reasonable price? The answer is an enthusiastic YES! Again, here's a quick summary:

• Affordable and DIY-Friendly: RitFit ships the equipment in manageable-sized boxes that arrive over a few days. This made it easy for us to carry them to the garage and work on assembly when it was convenient. My son and I spent a few hours one Saturday morning assembling the gym, and the sense of accomplishment was unbeatable!
• No Extra Costs: Everything we needed was included—no special tools or extra purchases were required.
• Impeccable Design: RitFit’s attention to detail amazed us. The pieces fit together perfectly, and the instructions were easy to follow. The end result? A solid home gym that rivals those pricey setups we saw in stores.

Finally, if you’re gifting home gym equipment from RitFit, you can make it a festive surprise! Here are a few creative ways to decorate Home Gym Equipment:

• Wrap the boxes with holiday paper and big bows.
• Build the home gym and wrap it with copious amounts of wrapping paper.
• String colorful Christmas lights or garlands around the assembled gym.
• Use RGB lights set to flash red and green for a high-energy reveal. Add intense holiday Nutcracker music for more memorable fun!
• Hide small gifts like workout clothing, supplements, or water bottles under the cage for an extra surprise!

If you’re looking for a meaningful gift this holiday season, the RitFit PPC03 Power Cage Home Gym with Cable Package is a fantastic choice. It’s more than just a gym—it’s an investment in your teen’s health, confidence, and lifelong wellness. Check out RitFit’s Black Month Sale and make this holiday season unforgettable for your family! 

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Trendy Mom's 2024 Holiday Gift Guide for Children

The holiday season is all about the magic and wonder that comes with seeing the world through a child’s eyes. From the sparkle of excitement to the joy of discovering something new, there’s nothing quite like the anticipation of gift-giving for little ones. This year, we’ve handpicked a collection of gifts that will not only light up their faces but also spark their imagination and creativity. Whether they’re into outdoor adventures, building, crafting, or cuddly comforts, our guide has something for every little personality.

So, grab some hot cocoa and get ready to explore fun and thoughtful gifts that will make this holiday season unforgettable for the kids in your life!

Bombas Youth Socks
Socks are a holiday staple, and no one makes them better than Bombas! Bombas socks are the perfect blend of comfort, quality, and style, bringing a touch of magic to this classic gift. Parents can create a holiday tradition that everyone—kids and adults alike—will look forward to each year by ordering Bombas socks that are as thoughtful as they are practical. This season, the Youth Wicked X Bombas Ankle Sock 4-Pack stands out with its fun and glittery designs, adding sparkle to every step and putting a smile on kids’ faces. Meanwhile, the Youth Merino Wool Blend Ankle Sock 4-Pack offers a cozy merino wool blend that’s perfect for keeping feet warm in winter and cool in summer—a gift that provides comfort all year long.

In my personal experience, Bombas socks quickly become a family favorite because they’re not only stylish and comfortable but also durable and made to last through all kinds of adventures. Plus, Bombas goes the extra mile with their mission to help those in need, donating a pair of socks for every pair purchased. This means that with each holiday order, your family is also giving warmth and comfort to someone less fortunate. Bombas turns the humble sock into a gift with heart, making it a truly meaningful tradition to look forward to year after year.

Janie and Jack Disney Star Wars Collection

Janie and Jack’s enchanting Disney Star Wars collection is sure to create happy childhood memories! Photos of my son wearing these items are among my most treasured items. The Good Night Pajamas in STAR WARS are the coziest way to drift off into a galaxy far, far away. 

With the softest fabric and playful Star Wars designs, these pajamas make bedtime feel like an adventure. Imagine your little one opening presents in these on Christmas morning or snuggling up for a holiday movie marathon—pure joy!


For holiday outings and special moments, the STAR WARS Plaid Flannel Shirt and STAR WARS Embroidered Oxford Shirt add a dash of galactic charm to classic wardrobe staples. The plaid flannel is cozy and festive. 

The Oxford shirt features the perfect hint of Star Wars whimsy, making it ideal for holiday photos or family dinners. These timeless pieces are full of character and style, ready to make sweet holiday memories. Make this season magical with these thoughtful gifts that are as stylish as they are fun!



32 Degrees

If you’re looking for cozy, stylish, and budget-friendly clothing for kids, 32 Degrees is a brand every parent needs to know! They totally get that parents want high-quality pieces without overpaying, and in today’s world of rising prices, 32 Degrees feels like a breath of fresh air. Even Costco has caught on to this amazing brand, but you’ll find even more fabulous options when you shop directly on their website—perfect for outfitting the entire family.

For kids, our absolute favorite is their Boys' Hooded Puffer Jacket. This puffer jacket is warm, lightweight, and available in multiple fun colors—all for just $14.99! It’s perfect for sparkling winter adventures while keeping your little one snug and stylish. 

Another one of our favorites is the 2-Piece Lightweight Base Layer Set. It's a must-have for only $8.99, featuring festive prints that make layering cheerful and fun. Whether your kids are heading to school or playing in the snow, 32 Degrees has them covered—literally! This holiday season, treat your kids to comfortable, practical clothing that both parents and little ones will adore.

Nintendo Switch: Mario & Luigi: Brothership

Set sail with Mario and Luigi in the delightful Mario & Luigi™: Brothership for Nintendo Switch! This family-friendly adventure is a hit in our house—my kids absolutely love it. Players join the famous brothers on a high-seas journey aboard their one-of-a-kind vessel, Shipshape Island, exploring diverse islands, solving clever puzzles, and battling quirky enemies.

With its charming humor, vibrant graphics, and teamwork-focused gameplay, Mario & Luigi Brothership is perfect for kids and families alike. My children can’t get enough of the cooperative fun and enjoy discovering new abilities like "Luigi Logic" for solving challenges together. Whether you’re playing solo or with family, this game is a heartwarming blend of action, creativity, and connection that’s sure to bring everyone together. This game is rated E for Everyone!

Nintendo Switch: Fitness Boxing 3: Your Personal Trainer

Get ready to punch, dodge, and groove with Fitness Boxing 3: Your Personal Trainer for Nintendo Switch! This family-friendly game transforms exercise into an engaging and enjoyable experience that keeps kids active and entertained. My children absolutely love following the energetic boxing routines, and it's a joy to watch them giggle and cheer as they move to the beat.

With 30 lively songs, including catchy renditions of pop hits, and a selection of six fully voiced virtual instructors, the game offers customizable workouts tailored to individual goals. Whether they're mastering new boxing moves or dancing along with the music, my kids have a blast staying active, making this game a delightful addition to our family time. This game is rated E for Everyone!

Nintendo Switch: The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom

For fans of adventure and imagination, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom is an absolute must-have! This latest installment in the Zelda series takes players on an incredible journey through breathtaking landscapes, mysterious dungeons, and beautifully crafted storylines that are perfect for sparking imagination and creating magical childhood memories. In my personal experience, Zelda games like this one are designed with incredible attention to detail, offering players the chance to immerse themselves in a world of adventure, puzzles, and epic battles.

The designers behind Echoes of Wisdom deserve all the praise for their meticulous craftsmanship, from the vivid, captivating visuals to the intricately woven plot that unfolds with every mission. It’s more than a game—it’s an experience that will capture your child’s heart and give them a sense of adventure that they’ll remember for years. Perfect for any young gamer, this title will bring excitement to their holiday season and inspire a love for storytelling, strategy, and exploration.

Hello Kitty & Friends x Sugarfina

Sugarfina’s Hello Kitty Advent Calendar and adorable candy cubes are whimsical gifts that will create happy childhood memories this holiday season! The Hello Kitty Advent Calendar is an absolute delight, with each door revealing a delicious candy surprise from Sugarfina’s signature collection. Packed with festive flavors and beautifully packaged, it’s a fun and interactive way to count down to Christmas, while indulging in high-quality, gourmet candies. And if you're looking for a year-round treat, Sugarfina’s adorable candy cubes are a must-try! These bite-sized cubes come in charming flavors and cute packaging featuring Hello Kitty and friends, making them a perfect gift or stocking stuffer. 

Whether you're gifting the Hello Kitty Advent Calendar or a box of candy cubes, Sugarfina’s sweet creations are sure to spread joy, add a dash of sweetness to every celebration, and create magical moments that will last a lifetime. Visit the Hello Kitty & Friends x Sugarfina collection!

Tokyo Treat is the ultimate gift for kids this holiday season, delivering the magic of Japan right to your doorstep every month! Unbox a surprise selection of unique and delicious Japanese snacks and candies, from savory chips to sweet treats and quirky candies, each with its own story. Each box also includes a beautifully designed booklet filled with fun facts about Japanese culture, language, and traditions, making it an educational adventure as well as a tasty one! Packed with treats to share, Tokyo Treat turns snack time into a fun cultural experience, keeping the excitement going month after month. It's a gift that keeps on giving all year long—perfect for curious young explorers! Visit Tokyo Treat now!

SIXEM Sour Patch Kids Dice Game

In my personal experience, SIXEM Sour Patch Kids Dice Game is pure excitement and the perfect way to create happy childhood memories! This game combines strategy, speed, and just the right amount of mischief, bringing out that classic "sour then sweet" twist we all love. Players pick their board, grab a random token to name the pattern, and then roll to erase or add Xs in a fast-paced race to line up six in a row. The playful, competitive energy of SIXEM makes it a perfect addition to family game nights, especially for anyone who loves a good challenge! This is the kind of game that creates laughter-filled, magical childhood moments every time you play.

Thames & Kosmos Pinball Machine Maker: Gumball Rally

Imagine a DIY pinball machine that lets kids play with real gumballs—Thames & Kosmos Pinball Machine Maker: Gumball Rally brings that vision to life! This set lets kids build their own pinball machine, learning about physics, engineering, and creativity along the way. The colorful gumballs bounce and slide through ramps, spinners, and bumpers, creating endless fun and sparking curiosity about how things move. In my personal experience, this hands-on kit is perfect for encouraging imaginative play while also offering valuable educational lessons in force, motion, and simple machines. It’s a sweet way to add a bit of holiday magic to your home that your kids will love exploring all season long.

Smartivity

We love how Smartivity makes learning feel organic and fun for kids. You may have heard of this company because their innovative toys have won many awards around the world. Their toys are perfect for kids who want to play, build, and explore while gaining valuable skills along the way! Let me share a few of our favorites! For instance, the Smartivity Mech Beast is a build-it-yourself kit that lets kids create two amazing mechanical creatures. They’ll love controlling the dragon’s jaws and fiery breath or making the flying dino flap its wings. The included stand lets them proudly display their creations once complete. This kit is a fantastic way to inspire imagination while introducing the basics of engineering.

For kids who love action, the Smartivity Hydraulic Plane Launcher will have their imaginations soaring. This hands-on DIY project teaches kids about hydraulics while they build and launch planes they assemble themselves. It’s not just a fun activity—it’s also a clever way to introduce STEM concepts in a playful, engaging way.

The Smartivity Mechanical Hand brings biology and engineering together in the coolest way. Kids can build their own mechanical hand while learning about human anatomy, biomimicry, and how links, levers, and gears work. This interactive project provides hours of fun while boosting creativity, motor skills, and analytical thinking.

Looking for a classic game with a creative twist? The Smartivity Pinball Machine lets kids bring the magic of the arcade to their own playroom! This wooden DIY kit guides them step-by-step to build their very own pinball machine while exploring STEM concepts like levers and momentum. With no glue or tools required, kids use elastic bands for assembly, making it easy to put together, take apart, and rebuild. It’s hands-on learning at its best—and a ton of fun for hours of play!

Floats McGoats by Hootenanny Games

For unforgettable family fun, Floats McGoats is a game night must-have! In this adventurous and thrilling game, players work to save shipwrecked goats by building rafts from scattered wood while avoiding lurking sharks and outsmarting opponents. It’s easy to learn, with new twists around every corner, making it endlessly engaging for both casual players and strategy lovers. In my personal experience, Floats McGoats is one of those rare games that brings everyone together for fun-filled evenings, creating magical moments and laughter as you navigate the high seas with your goat crew. Now available at Barnes & Noble, it’s a delightful addition to any family’s game shelf!

OOLY

This holiday season, spark your child's creativity with colorful and whimsical picks from OOLY. The Cat Parade Watercolor Gel Crayons feature 12 vibrant, water-soluble gel crayons with twist-up barrels and adorable kitten-face caps, perfect for smooth coloring and creating watercolor effects with a paintbrush. For a magical twist, the Magic Puffy Pens allow kids to create 3D designs in neon colors—just draw, let the ink dry, and heat it with a hair dryer to watch the designs puff to life. Add shimmer and scent to their writing with the Yummy Yummy Scented Gel Pens - Metallic, offering six metallic shades with delightful fruit scents, perfect for adding personality to notes or drawings, even on black paper. For a fun crafting project, the Shrink-Its! DIY Shrink Art Bracelet Kit - BFF includes 20 quirky charms, colorful cords, and ball chains, inviting kids to design and bake their own personalized bracelets or keychains. These creative products from OOLY are sure to bring joy and inspiration to your child's holiday!

Wiley Wallaby Soft Licorice
Looking for the perfect stocking stuffer? Wiley Wallaby Soft Licorice comes in festive holiday colors and flavors that are sure to delight kids and adults alike. With Classic Red, Green Apple, and the spicy Hot Cinnamon varieties, plus their tart Sourageous Drops, these treats are perfect for spreading holiday cheer. 

In my personal experience, Wiley Wallaby licorice is a hit for its soft, chewy texture and delicious flavors that make snack time extra fun. These are the kind of treats that add a festive pop to stockings, creating sweet memories that kids will cherish all season long!

Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas on 4K Ultra HD

The holiday season isn’t complete without the timeless tale of Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas—and now, it’s available in stunning 4K Ultra HD starting October 29! Narrated by the iconic Boris Karloff and brought to life by the legendary animator Chuck Jones, this beloved classic captures the heart of the holiday spirit. Follow the Grinch as he schemes to steal Christmas from the Whos of Who-ville, only to learn that the true meaning of Christmas goes far beyond gifts and decorations.

Perfect for family movie nights, this beautifully restored version makes the Grinch’s journey of redemption and joy more vibrant than ever. With its memorable rhymes, whimsical animation, and heartfelt message, this award-winning holiday treasure is a must-have for your holiday collection. Gather the family, pop the popcorn, and let the magic of Who-ville light up your holiday season like never before!

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