The joke's on all of those parents that said video games weren't good for you, because the creators of Fortnite, Epic Games, made 3 BILLION dollars in profit from Fortnite just this year. Oh, and that isn't the crazy part. The crazy part is that Fortnite: Battle Royale (that's the game mode that all of your kids are playing) is actually completely and totally free. So, how do they even make money then? Well, hold on to your hats, because people buy costumes for their characters to wear, along with silly dances and "emotes" for them. That's right-- when your kid is Keep Reading >>>
25 Fandom Christmas Ornaments Your Geeky Heart Will Love!
Yes, Christmas is for kids. Blah, blah. It's a holiday of hope, and peace, and cheer. But, for those of us with truly geeky hearts, that doesn't mean we can't geek out just a little bit when it comes to decorating our trees. In fact, what kind of fans would we be if we didn't let our fan flags fly in the form of DIY decorations? I say it'd be a bigger disgrace to leave baby Groot off your tree than to pretend he shouldn't be there. Oh, he should be there. He SHOULD. So here's 25 fandom Christmas ornaments your geeky heart will love! Because Christmas might be for kids, but that doesn't mean we Keep Reading >>>
Wanna Turn Chores Into A Game? There’s An App For That…
My whole life, I’ve been part of a family that teased each other. It’s a sign of affection and comfort, and the cleverest zings are the funniest. The goal is to make each other laugh, not to hurt anyone’s feelings… which is why no one teases me about my housekeeping. I am a terrible housewife. Granted, I never aspired to be a housewife. It’s not my calling. But, for the past 12 years, I’ve known that maybe I ought to be doing more chores than… well, the precise amount isn’t important here. I used to clean when I worked up a nice panic attack about it, if that tells you anything. And I Keep Reading >>>
Dear Pokemon Go Haters…
Since the Friday of Pokemon Go's release my housemate (aka The Boyfriend), and I have been on the go almost constantly in an effort to "catch them all." We are those adults out at 1 or 2 in the morning, clustered in a parking lot with a dozen other strangers trying to snag something we haven't seen before. It's no surprise that given the game's sudden popularity that there are people who don't care, don't get the game or totally hate it. Dear PokemonGo Haters... For the people who don't care or don't get it and casually keep scrolling by all the updates on what Pokemon were caught where Keep Reading >>>
Pokemon Go: Next-Gen Dating App?
Pokemon and dating. Who ever expected to see those two words together? Not me, that's for sure. Not until I actually met a guy playing Pokemon, I'm not even kidding, this totally happened. I've spent my entire life hiding in my room in front of my computer playing video games, and happily chatting away with people I knew I'd never meet. Don't get me wrong, I was happy with it... most of the time... I won't lie, it's kind of a lonely life. A lot of us actually want to be social, we just don't know how. We spent so much time hiding that we never really got the chance to learn, and one game has Keep Reading >>>
Stop Hating Pokemon Go Players
My family is Pokemon Go obsessed. This evening I strolled through the park with my daughter and husband. We laughed, played, talked and caught Jigglypuffs. (Our park has a lot of Jigglypuffs.) When we got tired, we laid on the sidewalk and looked up at the stars. It was one of those perfect summer nights that most parents dream of. Then I came home, and on my Facebook feed I saw this. My question to all of these people who hate Pokemon go is: If it was a beautiful day, and you were having a great time with your kid, and so was I--what makes your time better than mine? Is it Keep Reading >>>
Fair Warning: Don’t Get Shot While Playing Pokemon Go
So, my family is straight up country. Well, as it turns out, they also happen to live in a place where rare Pokemon spawn. (If you want to know more about the game, you can find my tips and tricks for playing Pokemon Go here.) So, this morning, my aunt posted this: (I kid you not, this was an actual post. They were watchin Fox, they were running around "with protection" I can't MAKE THIS STUFF UP PEOPLE!) Since we can't stop playing, my cousin instantly recognized this as Pokemon Go players. And, since she didn't want her dad to accidentally shoot someone who was just trying to Keep Reading >>>
How To Play Pokemon Go
Pokemon Go is sweeping the nation. We've been playing for days now, and here is everything you need to know. First, if you haven't download the game. The idea behind this mobile game is that you have to walk to find Pokemon spots to collect loot, walk to catch Pokemon, and even walk to join teams, etc. It gets you and your family moving. Brilliant if you ask me! You can download Pokemon Go for iOs and Pokemon Go for Android. We found a great comprehensive guide to Pokemon Go from Reddit user Powerfang. Gym Battles How do i take part in Gym Battles? To get involved in Keep Reading >>>
Team Valor Cocktail
If you haven't leveled up to at least Level 5 by now in Pokemon Go then you should drop whatever you are doing and go do that NOW. If you are continuing to read this then I assume you are past that level. It's going to make a big difference because Level 5 allows you to enter a Pokemon Gym and choose a team! I choose Team Valor (red team) and if you did too, let's celebrate our choice over a Team Valor Cocktail! This cocktail is sure to dominate the other Pokemon Teams out there so drink up and then go catch some more Pokemon! What You Will Need to Make a Team Valor Cocktail: 1/2 Keep Reading >>>
An Open Letter To The Police Concerning PokemonGo
Yesterday was the release of PokemonGo, a game where you capture Pokemon in real-life surroundings using your phone. Basically, you walk and drive all around your town hunting and catching Pokemon that appear all over the place. In restaurants, fields on the side of the road, in the middle of the town square, EVERYWHERE. My husband and I downloaded the app, and yesterday morning we headed off for an awesome adventure. All of the sudden we were stopping outside of buildings, wandering around in alleys, running around in between businesses, visting historical markers, exploring our little Keep Reading >>>
Tips and Tricks for Pokemon Go
In case you haven't heard Pokemon Go was released the other day. It probably all makes sense now as to why your neighbors were outside at 3 AM following their phone. Nope they aren't crazy, they just gotta catch em' all! So now that you know Pokemon Go is a thing, here are some Tips and Tricks for Pokemon Go that you need to know if you want to be the very best! If you are looking for a starter guide, check out our starter guide to playing Pokemon Go. Tips and Tricks for Pokemon Go A quick look on your favorite social media platform and you will see that people everywhere are walking Keep Reading >>>
If You Saw The New Assassin’s Creed Trailer, You Might Be Asking Yourself…What Even Is Assassin’s Creed??
The first official trailer for the upcoming film "Assassin's Creed," starring Michael "Magneto/Professor X Is My OTP" Fassbender and Marion "Hey Remember Inception?" Cotillard, has been making the rounds on social media lately, making sure that you and all your Facebook friends (and frenemies) know that you can expect to see it in theaters in December of this year. And like all good movie trailers, it's pretty frickin' sweet. Seriously, check it out if you haven't seen it already: See? Awesome. However, if you're not up on all the latest pop culture franchises, the trailer might have Keep Reading >>>
Overwatch Open Beta Extended – Blizzard’s Latest Game Might Just Be Its Coolest One Yet
Gamers, rejoice! If you've been counting down the seconds until the end of the open beta for Overwatch, Blizzard Entertainment's new adventure into first-person shooters, it turns out you've got a few extra hours to get your fill. As a thank you to "the millions of players who've logged in so far," the company announced that they would be extending Overwatch's open beta period to May 10th at 10am Pacific time, leaving just a two-week gap between the beta closing and the game going out for official release on May 24th. So, I guess this was just Blizzard's way of saying Happy Mother's Day to all Keep Reading >>>
This Is Why Your Kids Like Minecraft
Of all the things that modern technology has given us - smart phones, space travel, litter boxes that clean themselves, etc. - the best thing by far, in my not-so-humble opinion, is video games. Enjoying a good movie or binge-watched TV series is great and all, but it's sort of like a football player watching his team play from the sidelines: being a part of the thing itself is way more fun. When it comes to your kids, there's such a huge variety of games out there to choose from that they don't have to look very far to find something they'll like to play. And if what they like is a completely Keep Reading >>>
Mario and Princess Peach Cupcakes
It's the greatest love story never told - I spent as much of my young life wondering if Mario was ever going to find out what castle Princess Peach was in as I did doing my homework...well, probably more, if I'm being honest. And continuing to be honest, I'll admit that I haven't really been keeping up with their adventures in all the very latest Nintendo products, but there's no denying the fact that these Mario and Princess Peach Cupcakes are probably the cutest things I've ever seen come out of a video game franchise. They would totally have these things at their wedding...assuming Yoshi Keep Reading >>>
16 Delicious Ways To Take Your Minecraft Snacks To The Next Level
You know what we love in my house? Minecraft. This is the game that never gets old, because there is always something to build. So, if you have kids out there into Minecraft, then check out these Minecraft snacks! Totally Delicious Minecraft Snacks 1. Creeper Chocolate Candy I love this little creeper chocolate candy. It's a total hit at birthday parties. Learn how to make it here. 2. Marshmallow Ghasts I can't actually believe how easy these marshmallow ghasts are to make. Learn how to make them here. 3. Minecraft Cookies These cookies are Keep Reading >>>
This Guy Made The Great Deku Tree From Legend Of Zelda, Using A 3D Pen!
The Legend of Zelda used to be the coolest thing ever. And then 3D printing came along and blew it right out of the water. 3D printing really IS the coolest thing ever. And the fact that we can do it in our homes? How is that even possible!? I mean, people are 3D printing everything. I saw a guy who is 3D printing wheelchairs for legless animals. And using recycled plastic bottles to do it. *POOF* Mind. Blown. But this? Okay, yeah, it's no wheelchairs, but it brings The Legend of Zelda back to the forefront of cool and kicks it up a notch. This guy used a 3D pen to draw The Great Deku Tree Keep Reading >>>
That Crazy Thing That Makes Me So Totally Me
This post was sponsored by the SunChips brand, but all thoughts and opinions are my own. You know how some moms are super into scrapbooking, yoga, and all that other super mom-tastic stuff? Well, I tried it. I tried it all and here's the thing-- those just aren't my hobbies. My hobby, the thing that makes me so totally me-- the thing that makes me unique is totally not a mom-type thing. And I am totally okay with that. I had lots of fun teaming up with the Sun Chips brand and Mom It Forward to talk about the thing that makes me "Unique in Every Wave!" What is it that makes me Keep Reading >>>
Minions Invaded Our Game Night…And We LOVED IT!
It's no secret that Minions have taken the world by storm, and everyone is all about these strange talking little creatures that want nothing more than to be a part of taking over the world. So the other day when I was at the store planning for family game night, I saw a box of Hostess Twinkies that contained a Minion Decoration Kit. What the what? I HAD to get it. You know I had to. So, I'm here to tell you that game night has come and gone and that the Minions Invaded Our Game Night...And We LOVED It. So the night started exactly like any other game night, right? We had dinner, spent Keep Reading >>>
How I Reinvented Game Night
This year is my 20th high school reunion. The big 2-0. And my nephew just graduated from high school and is moving off to Austin because apparently he thinks his happiness is more important than mine. But, I digress. It dawned on me with all of this happening that as much as I want to Benjamin Button this bitch called life, that's not gonna happen. So, SINCE I am unmarried and have no kids, I've decided to institute Game Night. Don't get me wrong, my friends and I have spent a lot of time together all along, but life is hectic and sometimes we're lucky to get a hi/bye before everyone is racing Keep Reading >>>
Because I Am Obsessed With Games On My Phone
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of King Digital Entertainment for IZEA. All opinions are 100% mine. I have surpassed every Facebook friend I have on the Candy Crush Ladder, I spend way too many hours a day playing Farm Heroes Saga, and now my King Digital has yet another game I am totally digging-- it's a word based saga, AlphaBetty. It's the perfect combination of cute and difficult all at the same time. You have to chain together words in a brand new way and I LOVE it. Seriously. Totally love it. I think I spelled, chained, and played for about three hours the second Keep Reading >>>
DIY Minecraft Creeper Candle Holder
You know what they say, if you can't beat the creepers...join 'em! Well not really, but for the sake of Minecraft let's just pretend that we are nerding out over here and came up with another totally awesome creeper craft idea. This time, you can make your own Minecraft Creeper Candle Holder. Now before you think that is a totally bad idea for kids, think again! These use battery operated candles so they are perfectly safe! ROCK ON! Supplies Needed to Make A Minecraft Creeper Candle Holder: Custom Minecraft Fabric (zazzle.com) Square Glass Candle Holder (I found mine at Dollar Keep Reading >>>
Minecraft Creeper Punch
Minecraft is EVERYWHERE right now and chances are, you have a fan in your home. That is why you NEED to make this Minecraft Creeper Punch. Whether you are making it for your kiddos or an entire WORLD (you know, like in Minecraft?) this is both easy and inexpensive to make! Looking for more great Minecraft party ideas? Check out these 30 Awesome & Easy Minecraft Party Ideas. Creep on my friends! Ingredients Needed to Make Minecraft Creeper Punch: Sprite Lime Sherbet Lemon-Lime Kool-Aid Drink Mix Other Supplies Needed: Large Pitcher Cup for Serving How to Make Minecraft Creeper Keep Reading >>>
11 Types of Video Games Parents Should Know
I was listening to a parenting podcast the other day and they mentioned a few terms for video games parents probably don't know. The idea that I wouldn't know what a MMO was actually made me laugh out loud, but then I realized that they are totally right! People who don't spend giant portions of their free time gaming don't know what the heck we're talking about! So, I put together this list of 11 types of video games parents should know about. DISCLAIMER: I want to point out that I love gaming, and I have let my child play several of the games I've listed below. I am NOT telling you to Keep Reading >>>
Minecraft Creeper Chocolate Candy
Kids LOVE Minecraft...and they will LOVE you when you make this Minecraft Creeper Chocolate Candy. Whether for a Minecraft-themed party, or just an afternoon snack this treat is delicious and easy to make. Want more Minecraft fun? Check out these 30 Awesome & Easy Minecraft Party Ideas. Enjoy! What You Need To Make Minecraft Creeper Chocolate Candy: Light Cocoa Candy Melts Green Candy Melts Bright Green Candy Melts Green Sixlets Chocolate Candy Dark Chocolate Sprinkles Other Supplies Needed: Wax Paper Cookie Sheet Spoons Microwave Safe Bowls How To Make Minecraft Creeper Keep Reading >>>
XBOX One Is my BAE
Get ready to hail the Master Chief! Enter to win a new, XBOX ONE Halo: The Master Chief Collection Gaming Bundle! Hosted by The Link Fairy The Master Chief Collection is a big deal at our house. It's one of our favorite games of ALL TIME to play, and we can't stop playing through all the different Halo games on it. Cortana, WE LOVE YOU! Get ready to celebrate one of the biggest games in XBOX history. BUNGIE brings Halo's Master Chief and all of his amazing adventures back to life in one place with the new XBOX ONE Halo: The Master Chief Collection Gaming Bundle! Gaming bundle Keep Reading >>>
25+ Mario Party Ideas
I don't know if I've confessed this (recently), but I love Mario. He was like my first real intro into the world of gaming and he was instantly my friend--who's grown with me and evolved with my whole family! I just straight-up love the little Italian plumber, which is why I'm planning a Mario Party in honor of the release of Mario Party Ten--which I can't stop playing. 25+ Mario Party Ideas I like to start every awesome party with easy printable invites. These rock. My party would be cry-worthy without these hilarious Piranha Cupcakes (topped with my fave fruit, Keep Reading >>>
10 Ways to Talk with a Tween Boy
Here's the thing. It's not that tweens (boys in particular) don't want to talk. They just don't know how. Their brains are still developing and they just need to be taught how to open-up. To get you thinking, here's 10 ways to Talk with a Tween Boy that will TOTALLY work, if you give them a try! I'm kinda unsteady on my feet when it comes to conversation with my kiddo. He's a tough nut to crack. But that's why I try really really hard to be on-top of how I talk to him...maybe we'll survive the teen-years. Ask open-ended questions. Don't stick with the standard junk--be creative! Ask Keep Reading >>>
30 Awesome & Easy Minecraft Party Ideas
So, I put together this 30 Awesome & Easy Minecraft Party Ideas...but then, as I was putting it together, I got a little crazy--there's SOOO many cool ideas...just---Don't start the party without me! So, apparently playing Minecraft is like going down the rabbit-hole and so is coming up with party ideas...for every link herein, you'll find at least a dozen more...Enjoy! Begin with these easy Cube Invites. Then, imagine a Square Haystack Cake... With delicious Lava Punch. Or a round Fondant-Covered Cake. Block Cake? Geeze! See what I mean?! It's like you can do ANYTHING Keep Reading >>>
Join Us for a Twitter Party With Activision Family Games on 12/1 at 1pm CST!
We are delighted to be working with Activision Family Games to bring you a Twitter party with full of games, and giveaways on December 1 at 1pm CST. To celebrate the twitter party with @AtviFamily, we have a giveaway worth over $350! To participate in this twitter party, just follow along with the #AtviFamGames hashtag on Twitter on 12/1 at 1pm CST! You can follow all the twitter party hosts here: @AtviFamily, @4kidsactivities, @2wired2tired, @jamieharrington, @KellysLuckyYou, @mommye, @StacieinAtlanta, @CrystalandComp, @KelliBMiller, @JennyOnTheSpot, and @DaDaRocks. We will be Keep Reading >>>
Nintendo Halloween Pumpkin Stencils
I love carving pumpkins. It's always been one of my favorite parts of Halloween! Pumpkin stencils are awesome, but Nintendo pumpkin stencils are even more awesome! Keep Reading >>>
Homework Awards With Disney Infinity Games
In my house, it's quite the chore to get homework done. I beg, and I plead, and eventually we sit down at the kitchen table and get it done. Honestly, it's a huge pain, and I needed a better way. A more "rewarding" way. So, that's where the new Disney Infinity Games came in. The rules are simple. Spend a week saving up "homework points" and when your child gets enough points, you can take them to Wal-Mart to get one of the new Disney Infinity Games. And this game is so mega entertaining that we now use Disney Infinity as a homework reward. If you get all your homework done in my Keep Reading >>>
