Predator: Badlands Now Streaming on Disney+

Disclosure: Code received for review purposes.

Predator: Badlands is now streaming on Disney+!

Predator: Badlands is the newest installment in the The Predator and Prey line-up.

Film Synopsis

Set in the future on a deadly remote planet, Predator: Badlands follows Dek, a young Predator outcast from his clan, who finds an unlikely ally in Thia and embarks on a treacherous journey in search of the ultimate adversary.

Predator: Badlands is a stand-alone movie that can be followed and understood even if you haven't seen all of the Predator or Prey films (I personally only have watched the first two films).  

Dek, a Predator, and Thia, a synth, go on an adventure seeking the Kalisk.  They encounter numerous obstacles and we watch as their relationship evolves, while wondering if Thia's intentions are authentic. 

After accomplishing his goal, Dek returns home where he refuses to return to the clan who rejected him, and the film ends in a way that could lead to a possible sequel.

 

Bonus Features*

• Deleted & Pre-Visualization Scenes with Optional Audio Commentary:
• Sand Trap – An early animatic version of Dek’s very different first encounter with Thia.
• Squirt Canyon – The full version of Dek and Thia traversing the water-filled trench while trying to survive Genna…and each other.
• Tessa vs. Abe – Tessa faces off against a superior synth in this deleted scene and storyline.
• Razor Grass – The original previsualization of Dek, Thia, and Bud’s first hunt together…sort of.
• The Outpost – Thia takes Dek to a small Weyland-Yutani field facility where they experience a few things that ended up being used elsewhere in the final film.
• Super Power Loader Extended – Special additional moments during Dek’s climactic final battle with the Super Power Loader and the Kalisk.

 

• Featurettes:
• Embodying the Predator – Meet the talented team of designers, performers, and effects artists responsible for bringing one of cinema’s most terrifying creatures to life on screen in ways we’ve never seen before!
• Authentic Synthetics – Get up close and personal with synths Thia and Tessa as star Elle Fanning walks us through the process of crafting two characters who may look the same but have evolved in surprisingly unique ways.
• Building the Badlands – With razor sharp grass, killer trees, and terrifying animals, never has a planet been more deadly than Genna. Uncover how a team of artisans built this threatening landscape, transforming real locations into the dangerous environments seen on screen.
• Dek of the Yautja – For the first time ever, director Dan Trachtenberg has given audiences an extended peek at Predator culture. Follow the evolution as filmmakers reveal the process behind developing the Yautja’s home world, spacecraft, and family dynamics.  
• Audio Commentary: Watch the film with audio commentary by Director Dan Trachtenberg, Producer Ben Rosenblatt, Director of Photography Jeff Cutter and Stunt Coordinator Jacob Tomuri.

 

*Bonus features may vary by product and retailer

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iLive 45-inch HD Soundbar Review

Disclosure: Complimentary product was received for review purposes

My family has movie night frequently, and we're always listening to music in the house. Thanks to the iLive - 45-inch Bluetooth Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer and Satellite Speakers (ARV $159), our movie-watching and music-listening experiences are elevated!

Set up was a breeze (my husband set it up), and in no time we had surround sound that really made a difference on movie nights and music listening parties.

Here is his detailed review regarding the set-up:

The iLive 45” HD Soundbar is the first soundbar I’ve owned and I’m very happy with it. The soundbar is 45” long with the detachable satellite speakers attached and 32” on its own. It comes with a subwoofer, a wall mount kit, remote control, power adapters for both the soundbar and the subwoofer, charging cables if you keep the satellite speakers detached, and an optical audio cable.Setup was very simple. I plugged in the soundbar and attached the two satellite speakers. Since my TV doesn’t have enough HDMI ports, I used the provided optical audio cable to connect the soundbar to the TV. I plugged the subwoofer into an outlet across the room. I turned everything on and was ready to test it out.

The soundbar was a huge upgrade over my TV speakers. The sound is full and the bass from the subwoofer is more than adequate. The remote lets you choose amongst music, movie, or dialog and they do make a difference in the listening experience. You can also choose amongst the different input options, control the volume, and adjust the bass and treble with the remote.

The Bluetooth is simple to connect with my phone and easy to switch between other sources if someone else wants to play their music. There is an auxiliary port on the soundbar if your music device isn’t Bluetooth capable and you need to connect the old school way.

I do have a few issues with the iLive 45” Sound Bar with Satellite Speakers & Wireless Subwoofer. First of all, the optical audio cable that comes with is only 3’ 4” long. I needed to buy a longer one to be able to run it from my wall mounted TV and through the wall to the soundbar. Secondly, although there are volume, bass, and treble controls on the remote, there’s no visual indication of their levels. You just need to press each up or down and listen to determine the desired level of each. These issues are not dealbreakers.

Overall, the iLive 45” HD Soundbar is a great sound system, especially for the price. It’s easy to setup, has enough features for the average user and, most importantly, it sounds great!

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Hawai`i's Community Cookbook Review

I have a small collection of local cookbooks, so I was thrilled when Hawai`i's Community Cookbook was published.  

This collection of over 600 recipes from cookbooks made through churches, schools, and other organizations offers a glimpse of our food culture in years past, with classic recipes and even replicas of old ads!

It was so nostalgic to see recipes such as guisantes and chicken hekka - many dishes that I've had as a child, but haven't had in years.  

Then there were the recipes that were very familiar since I either eat or make the foods regularly, such as mochiko chicken or Korean-style fried rice.

I loved the authenticity of the recipes and how some had a story behind it or helpful tips.  You'll even finda recipe written in pidgin!

Locals will find so many favorites or discover new ones, such as Teriyaki Short Ribs, Steamed Opakapaka with Lemon Soy Sauce, and Guava Cream Cheesecake.

Of course the first recipe I tried was one for sweets - Leona's Disappearing Mochiko Chocolate Chip Cookies.

They were a hit!  It had a nice crispness to it and my kids ate them up!

I have so many other recipes earmarked that I'm ready to try.

Hawai`i's Community Cookbook is perfect for your cookbook collection or would make a great gift for someone who is missing the islands.  

 

You may order Hawai`i's Community Cookbook online at Mutual Publishing.

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Hamilton - Now Showing at Blaisdell Concert Hall

I was very fortunate to have been invited to the Media Night showing of Hamilton, courtesy Broadway in Hawaii.

The Tony® Award-winning Broadway musical debuted last night at Blaisdell Concert Hall, sharing the story of Alexander Hamilton.  

I was very familiar with the worldwide acclaim that the musical has received, but I was unfamiliar with most of the story of Alexander Hamilton.  This musical was a fantastic way to learn about such a prominent individual, along with other important political and military figures of the time.

The performances in Hamilton were unlike any other I've experienced.  The integration of rap, hip hop, and R&B created an engaging (although sometimes difficult to understand since they sometimes rapped so fast!) platform to deliver the background of one of the most significant figures in America's history.  

In addition to the unique musical styles, the incorporation of cast members of diverse backgrounds, in my opinion, enhanced the story line, allowing audience members to look beyond the surface and into each individual's being.

There were so many noteworthy performances, with the cast members belting out their hearts and captivating the audience, but my favorite was Helpless.  The rhythm, lyrics, and the story had me entranced.  

I laughed, I cried, and I learned a lot of history.  I found the story of Hamilton intriguing, and the story of his wife, Elizabeth, inspiring.  

I saw many young kids at the show, and I would totally bring my own kids to experience this amazing musical (there are some curse words sprinkled throughout the show).

Find tickets online at https://www.broadwayinhawaii.com/bih/event/Hamilton.

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Seven Senses Spa Review

Treatment Room

Hawaii Mom Blog was invited to visit Seven Senses Spa located in the Kahala office center for a complimentary massage to experience their spa.  Their spa concept is "beyond massage" where they offer an array of massage styles ranging from deep tissue, lomi lomi, shiatsu, and more.  

When you enter, you are immediately greeted by a wall of dark wooden planks inspired by hot springs in Japan and transported to a place of zen.  After I checked in, I was greeted by my therapist, Kim, and shown the room.  Kim discussed with me what I wanted worked on and any places to avoid.  During the massage she checked with me on the pressure, but it was already perfect.  For me, Kim combined deep tissue and lomi lomi and it was amazing. My neck and back gets sore from my office job and sometimes tight from hiking. I could really feel her working the areas where I needed it most and it felt like the tension was being rubbed away. I highly recommend booking with Kim, but it's great to know that Seven Senses Spa state all their therapists are extremely knowledgeable in therapeutic massage and have a passion for helping others.

This hall leads to zen.

Seven Senses Spa offers 60 minute, 75 minute, and 90 minute massages as well as package specials at very reasonable prices.  If you are in the market for an outstanding massage and you don't have a need for a relaxation room or sauna, then Seven Senses Spa is perfect for you.    

For more information, see their website.

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Marvel Studios' Eternals Review

Disclosure: A digital code was received to review the movie.

Marvel Studios’ Eternals debuted on digital last month, and is now available on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on February 15. 

Synopsis
Marvel Studios’ Eternals follows a group of ancient heroes from beyond the stars who had protected Earth since the dawn of man. When monstrous creatures called Deviants, long thought lost to history, mysteriously return, the Eternals are forced to reunite in order to defend humanity once again.

With an all-star cast including Gemma Chan, Richard Madden, Kumail Nanjiani, Lia McHugh, Brian Tyree Henry, Lauren Ridloff, Barry Keoghan, Don Lee, Kit Harington, Salma Hayek, and Angelina Jolie, Eternals tells the story of the origination of this select group of heroes.

I love the Marvel series, and although I was unfamiliar with the characters in Eternals, I was very interested in learning about them and how they intertwined with the Marvel Cinematic Universe as a whole 

Throughout the movie, the Eternals battled Deviants in all sorts of settings, and if an Eternal succumbed to one, that Deviant would inherit the Eternal's special powers.  Evil ultimately consumed one of the Eternals, who threatened the demise of them all, but, good prevailed.

Eternals was full of action-packed scenes and special effects, and there was lots of humor throughout the movie (my son's favorite part was when a special drink was made with some peculiar ingredients).

Eternals is a must for any Marvels fan, and it was definitely a great family movie night film!

Bonus Features*
● Audio Commentary – View the film with audio commentary by Chloé Zhao, Stephane Ceretti, Mårten Larsson
● Immortalized – Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe launches into the cosmos with the Eternals. In this behind-the-scenes documentary, dive deep into the reasons why Marvel wanted to immortalize these superheroes for the MCU.
● Walks of Life – Eternals unveils Marvel's biggest and most diverse lineup of Super Heroes in one film. Hear reactions from the cast on being involved in the film and the instant sense of camaraderie that was felt on the day they all joined each other in their costumes.
● Gag Reel – Watch some of the hilarious mishaps of the charming cast and crew.
● Deleted Scenes




*bonus features vary

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Walt Disney Animation Studios' Encanto Review

Disclosure: I was given a code to watch it digitally.

Over the holidays we spent time watching Walt Disney Animation Studios' Encanto!

This wonderful family film is currently available on digital, and will release on 4k Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on February 8.

Synopsis
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto, with all-new songs by award-winner Lin-Manuel Miranda, tells the tale of the Madrigals, an extraordinary family living in a magical house in the mountains of Colombia. But when Mirabel, the only ordinary Madrigal, discovers the magic surrounding their home is in danger, she may be her family’s last hope.

This fantastical film about a magical home in a magical town where people with magical powers live was lively and fun, as well as very meaningful.

The Madrigal family was given gifts by a special candle - from being able to control the weather or heal people with food, the gifts were abundant in this Madrigal household. However, Mirabel was mysteriously not bestowed a gift, but visions of a crumbling home and the candle's flame going out made her determined to save the treasured home, even without having been given a gift.

During her pursuit, family tensions rise - so much so, that relationships and both the precious home begin to destruct.

Ultimately, despite tragedy, Mirabel makes significant discoveries, and helps all her loved ones realize that the greatest gift of all is that of family.

Our family enjoyed the numerous songs throughout the movie, and there were many humurous moments as well.

My youngest son loved when Antonio was given the gift to speak to and understand animals. We also both thought it was funny when Mirabel found Bruno, who had been in hiding for years, and he conjured up a vision for Mirabel to try and help save their home - one in which she was hugging her sister, with whom she did not get along very well with.

The animation was engaging and enchanting, and Disney never fails when it comes to family films that are both entertaining and meaningful.

Watch Encanto now on Digital, or get it on 4k Ultra HD, Blu-ray, or DVD on February 8!

 

Bonus Features*

• Sing Along with the Movie – Sing along with your favorite songs with on-screen lyrics as you watch the movie.
• Familia Lo Es Todo – Members of the Disney Animation “Familia” cultural trust share real-life experiences in this exploration of the lovable Madrigal family members. We learn what inspired each character, and about how the artists’ designs bring realism to their personalities.
• Discover Colombia – The filmmaking team discusses how the multiple cultures, biodiversity and vibrant colors of Colombia are expressed in Encanto. They describe how satisfying it was to fully celebrate this beautiful country and support the theme of magical realism.
• A Journey Through Music – The filmmakers invite us to discover how each character came to be represented musically. We follow the creation of Encanto’s Colombian-inspired music, featuring Lin-Manuel Miranda’s songs and Germaine Franco’s score, from concept to final recording.
• Let’s Talk About Bruno – Learn how the song “We Don't Talk About Bruno,” with its intriguing undertones, was created. Discover the extensive collaboration between Lin-Manuel Miranda, choreographer Jamal Sims, the voice cast and animators in bringing it to the screen.
• Our Casita – La Casa Madrigal is alive with magic, and its emotional state is affected by other family members. From its colorful doors to its fine stonework, the magical house was designed using principles of Colombian tradition.
• Outtakes – From the thrill of “nailing” a take in the presence of an entertainment industry icon to the hilarity of losing a wrestling match with tongue-twisting dialogue, join the cast for some good-natured fun from behind the microphone.
• Journey to Colombia – With the help of the Colombian Cultural Trust, a dedicated team of consultants, the filmmakers of Encanto embark on a journey of discovery to learn more about Colombia and how best to reflect the country’s cultures and environments on the big screen.
• An Introduction to Far From the Tree – Writer and director Natalie Nourigat introduces the Walt Disney Animation Studios short film Far From the Tree.
• Far From the Tree – Parenting is hard, especially when curiosity tugs at a young raccoon whose parent tries to keep them both safe. In the Walt Disney Animation Studios short Far From the Tree, this youngster learns to live with an open heart… even as danger lurks.
• Deleted Scenes
• Introduction – Heads of Story Jason Hand and Nancy Kruse present four scenes not seen in the film’s release, but were part of the journey toward the final version of the story.
• Chores! – Abuela has sent most of the family to town on various assignments that bring them acclaim, while Mirabel, her father and uncle are asked to clean the house.
• Another Way In – Mirabel attempts to understand a clue found in her uncle’s vision. To make this happen, she must go through Antonio’s room, where adventures unfold.
• Isabela Goes Into the Woods – When Mirabel sees her sister head for apparent danger in the woods, she races to save her, and encounters the surprise of a lifetime!
• Back to the Mural – Feeling rejected, Mirabel goes back to town. Abuela seeks her out and reveals a part of her personality that her granddaughter has never seen.

• Song Selection – Jump to your favorite musical moments, with on-screen lyrics.

o   The Family Madrigal

o   Colombia, Mi Encanto

o   Waiting on a Miracle

o   Surface Pressure

o   We Don’t Talk About Bruno

o   What Else Can I Do

o   Dos Oruguitas

o   All of You

 

*bonus features vary by product and retailer

 

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Reign: The Final Battle Royale Review

 Disclosure: Complimentary product was provided for review purposes.

About Reign: The Final Battle Royale (from PlayMonster)

Which player will be left standing as the victor?!
Four factions of warriors battle to survive on a doomed land that will be destroyed piece by piece, taking its occupants with it. You must strategize to survive—by fleeing, fighting or sacrificing your weakest members—whatever you must do to be the last one left standing when the land around you has been annihilated. For 2 to 4 players.

Reign turned out to be a really fun game that our family has been playing over and over again.  

Each person is responsible for a faction of warriors, and the last one standing wins.  But in order to win, warriors must face other warriors and make it to the center of the land before the pieces of it disappear for good.

Set up is easy, and what I really like about this game is that it encourages kids to strategize and think ahead.  Players have to determine if they will go for the center of the board, capture and use power stones, or battle other warriors on each turn.  They have to do all of this while being cognizant of the different areas of the board that will be "destroyed," what other warriors they will encounter, and how many power stones are still left in play.

Math is also involved in terms of battles (each warrior is allotted a certain number of points), and the use of an event tracker (players calculate how many moves they can make to get their warriors safely to a piece of land).

Although a lot of pieces are involved, assembly is actually a cinch, and Reign is quite an easy game to play and follow.

My kids' favorite part of Reign is going into battle.  They especially like it when a less-skilled warrior beats a more highly-skilled warrior.  

My littlest loved the game so much, he ended up drawing all of the warriors!

You can find Reign at various retailers online and at PlayMonster.

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How to Keep Everyone Happy Little Campers

Disclosure: Complimentary product was received for review purposes. All opinions are entirely my own.  

I’m going to start this out by saying: I don’t say “no” to free diapers. I don’t know a mom who does. My friend had Honest diapers covered in pink flowers which her daughter outgrew. “Of course I’ll take them,” I said. 

So when Happy Little Campers offered to send me some of their diapers to review, what kind of mom would I be if I turned them down.

Though initially I thought I hadn’t heard of the company before, I realized after some research that I had in fact saw a morning show interview Hilary Duff (who is a spokesperson and ambassador for the company) did with a local news station. 

Happy Little Campers prides itself on being a line that’s not just good for babies, but good for the environment. Something I 10000% agree with. The hypo-allergenic cotton diapers are made with 100% natural products and their wipes feature organic aloe vera and Vitamin E. 

They sent me their 100% Natural Cotton Baby Wipes, Flushable Baby Wipes, Ultra Absorbent Diapers and Hand Sanitzer to try out.

I think the most noteworthy thing is that there IS NO DIFFERENCE in their products. You can get diapers and wipes that are good for your baby, good for the environment and WORK (as a mom you know that last part is critical). E hasn’t had a blowout or diaper accident (except at night because he tends to sleep for 12-15 hours in a go) and in the Happy Little Campers stayed fresh even while darting around our staycation at Aulani.

We used the wipes for his bum but since we were on vacation we also happened to have them at the pool and with a baby running amok he often had food or snacks all over his face and hands. But because the wipes were all natural I didn’t think twice about whipping them out on multiple occasions to help with other non-diaper messes.

Honestly though  -- and I hope the company doesn’t hate me for this – my favorite product was the hand sanitizer. With COVID AND a baby we go through hand sanitizer like no one’s business. They sent me two bottles and even though I have tried and used a TON of hand sanitizer in the last eight months I think the Happy Little Camper ones are easily my favorite. It comes with an easy-to-use hand pump which means no fiddling with and opening lids and squeezing it out, it’s made in the USA (big bonus points to Todd) and it doesn’t smell at all harsh or have a stinging alcohol smell. In fact when Todd used it he thought it must have much lower alcohol content than our other sanitizers but in fact it has a higher alcohol content. And when I use it I don’t feel like I have to roll down the windows or wave my hands away from the baby before I go near him. Love, love, love. 

You can buy Happy Little Campers direct through their website or here in Hawaii, find them at Walmart stores.

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Pups of War Fun For All Ages!

Disclosure:  Discount was received for review purposes.  All opinions are entirely my own.

My son having the time of his 9 year old life!

My son received his first nerf gun when he was 2 while we were staycationing in Kona and had foolishly made a stop at Target.  Since then, his grandparents have gifted him a new model for every birthday, Christmas, and just because it’s Wednesday.  As you can imagine, his nerf gun collection could arm the entire neighborhood.  Our house is littered with those foam darts and balls which I have resolved to ignore, but I admit I will lose it every once in a while when a stray bullet lands in our most unreachable light fixture.  Not. Fun.

So thank goodness for Pups of War, Hawaii's first and premier dedicated Nerf, Rival, and Gotcha Arena!  Thanks to the geniuses behind Pups of War, my son has a safe 4,000 square feet to battle it out with other kids and shoot to his heart’s content.  The padded arena is filled with structures and play areas that players can explore or hide in while they either refill their nerf guns with unlimited ammo or talk strategy.  Safety is a priority as all players are required to wear grip socks and safety glasses.  

Players at the Pearlridge location can come in for walk-on play as well as part of a party package.  All party packages are priced to include play for 15 players and two hours in designated party rooms which includes a refrigerator, tables, table covers, chairs, and paper goods.  Reservations for parties on weekends tend to fill fast so a week night might be a better option for your party.  

I opted for a simple birthday celebration for my son so we invited 4 of his friends for two hours of walk-on play.  What has always impressed me when checking in at Pups of War is the staff.  Each time they have been professional, extremely helpful, and patient.  The boys were super excited, but the staff member was able to get them banded and suited up with safety goggles and grip socks in no time.  One of the kids had brought his own nerf gun, but once he saw the collection Pups of War had, he quickly brought it back to me.  The kids loved being able to use the battery operated blasters in level 3 and having the option to access the level 2 Rival ball-type blasters and the level 1 basic dart-type blasters.  

Once in the arena players can roam freely, but the staff will also hold organized games like Capture the Flag.  I could safely watch from behind a net dividing the arena and the waiting area with ample comfy seating and televisions.  Before the two hours were over, 3 of the 5 kids were exhausted and in the waiting area with me drinking water.  Of course, I had to pull away my son from the arena when time was up.  He had so much fun, that he told me two hours was not enough.  This from the kid that knocked out in the car on the way home.  Pups of War has two other convenient locations in Windward Mall and Kapolei to tire your kid out too.

Choosing their weapons.

So many places to hide! 

The tombstones in the Gravyard make the perfect shield!

One of the party rooms.

Inside the “Dog Pound”

Behind the running kids is the net that keeps people in the waiting area safe from flying nerf bullets. 

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SpaHalekulani Halekulani Facial

Last year SpaHalekulani at Halekulani celebreated its 15th Anniversary. Fast-forward a year later, and I was able to treat myself to what was one of the best spa experiences I've ever had.

I opted for the Halekulani Facial - 80 minutes of pure bliss!

Each spa treatment begins with the signature Spa Salutation, which includes foot stimulation to begin the rejuvenation process. 

After changing into a wrap, I was ready for my treatment! 

The Halekulani Facial incorporates the use of Pure Mana products. These made-in-Hawaii eco-conscious products consists of an "organic skincare line of oils and botanical blends made entirely from locally sourced, farm-grown, or wild-crafted ingredients," which are blended and activated with crystals.

Throughout the 80 minutes, my skin was thoroughly indulged with the luxurious Pure Mana products, while my amazing therapist, Kelley, did her magic on my skin.

A thorough cleansing was followed up by an exfoliant, which helped to eliminate any residue from my face.

The thoughtful application of each product and the gentle motions did not go unnoticed.  I could actually feel that with each step, my skin was just getting cleaner and cleaner, and I could only imagine how much residue was getting wiped off each time Kelley applied a warm towel to my face.

During the facial a mask was put on, and after the treatment, Kelley said my skin was just glowing.

The Halekulani Facial also includes a fantastic arm and leg massage, as well as a scalp massage and foot scrub.

I was literally pampered from head to toe.

And I dozed off nearly a dozen times!

The soothing background music, combined with the lovely scents of the skin care products and Kelley's massaging, made me completely relaxed. 

It was heavenly.

I don't think I could ever go back to a 60-minute treatment!  That was the first time I experienced a treatment beyond 60 minutes, and the 80 minutes really flew by. 

After the treatment, you could freshen up with amenities supplied in the room. 

You are then treated to mochi ice cream and hot or iced tea (I opted for water), and are allowed to simply sit back, relax, and take in the beautiful sights.

If your skin needs some pampering, book the Halekulani Facial at SpaHalekulani!

SpaHalekulani
Halekulani
2199 Kalia Rd

Honolulu, HI 96815

(808) 931-5322

Mahalo to SpaHalekulani for the complimentary session.  Gratuity was paid on my own.

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Reis and Irvy's Hawaii

Disclosure: Complimentary product was received for review purposes.  All opinions are entirely my own. 

The world's first frozen yogurt (froyo) robotic vending machine has hit Hawaii shores and you can check it out for yourself at The Hyatt Regency in Waikiki. The company that invented this machine is called Reis & Irvy's, and their machines can create a cup of frozen yogurt with up to two different toppings in under 60 seconds.

Finding this vending machine is a bit tricky unless you know ahead of time that it's located near a small entrance to the hotel on the Koa street side of the ground floor of the Hyatt Regency.  

Once you find the machine, everything else is easy-peasy, which is what makes this concept so great, especially for kids. 

Just choose your size (regular or large), flavor, and up to two toppings. 

On this particular day, the two flavors were chocolate and vanilla ...

and the toppings were granola, chocolate sprinkles, 

rainbow sprinkles, graham crumbs, and fruit pebbles.

The ordering process is incredibly simplistic - even the technologically challenged can navigate the touch screen with ease. 

After you complete the ordering and payment process, the robot gets to work.  The robotic arm will grab a cup, and place it under the desired flavor. A swirl of froyo is dispensed into your cup, just like at the froyo shops.

Then the robot places your cup under the toppings dispensers.

The finished product is placed in a holding area, and once the window opens you can collect your cup of froyo.  

The window was at the perfect height for my 5 year old twins.

Happiness in a cup!

vanilla with rainbow sprinkles

My boys had a blast watching the process. They liked the taste of the froyo too! 

chocolate with fruity pebbles

What I liked about about Reis and Irvy's Hawaii's vending machine:

• it takes less than 60 seconds
• the selections are limited (2 flavors, 6 toppings), which makes it easier for kids (and adults!) to make decisions)
• the prices are set (currently $5 for a regular, $7 for a large), so there's no chance of "sticker shock" at check out, like at the self-serve froyo shops
• it's open 24/7!

Reis and Irvy's Hawaii 
at The Hyatt Regency Waikiki
2424 Kalakaua Avenue
Website: reisandirvyshawaii.com

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Japan Candy Box Review

*Disclosure:  Complimentary product was received for review purposes.

  

The kids (and me) couldn't wait to open up our Japan Candy Box!

My entire family love snacks especially from Japan, so we were very excited to sample a Japan Candy Box.  Japan Candy Box is a popular monthly subscription box that includes 8-10 delicious and special Japanese candies and treats delivered every month right to your home!  Every box is guaranteed to include hard to find seasonal or exclusive Japanese candies.  The kids and I really enjoyed the entire experience from unboxing the goodies to tasting each one. 


You can get a subscription for yourself for as low as $17.90 a month which includes free shipping.  Better yet, gift this fabulous treat to someone special!  One month, 6 months, 12 month subscriptions are available.

The unboxing begins!

Each box contains 8-10 snacks.  The July box is themed Ice Cream Carnival.

Yaokin Little Gang Popping Candy.  You can use this to top ice cream.

Calbee Sapporo Potato Chips BBQ Flavor.  This one was Cade's favorite and he asked me to buy him more. 

Coris Hiyarinko Ice Gum. 

Kabaya Kakigori Shaved Ice Gummies.  I really liked this one!

Meiji Panda Yan Yan Biscuit Sticks.  We never have had a yan yan with sprinkles! 
The kids actually fought over this snack.

Fujiya Baskin Robbins Mint Chocolate.  I hid this one from the children so I can savor on my own.  

Baby Star Shinkansen Ramen Maru.  This snack was gone in no time.

Koala's March Biscuits Soft Ice Cream.  I am amazed how spot on this tastes like soft ice cream.

Glico Caplico Mini Ice Cream Snack and Coris Cola & Soda Soft Candy.  We buy the ice cream snack from Costco all the time!  We also really enjoyed the cola candy.

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