Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker Movie Review

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Lucasfilm and director J.J. Abrams’ riveting, inspiring conclusion of the seminal Skywalker saga, arrives on Digital March 17 and Blu-ray March 31. The in-home release comes with over two hours of bonus material, including a feature-length, making-of documentary and behind-the-scenes access to the cast and filmmakers who brought the epic scenes and characters to life!

We have been extremely excited to add this to our Star Wars collection! We may have a few Jedi in our family ;). As a child I grew up watching these movies with my family and now I get to share the same experiences with my son. Since we live in New York, Social distancing has become the norm here. We are on day 8!! Watching this movie was a great way to combat the rainy weather and fall back in love with the Series.

**This is a Collaboration with Disney. I received a copy of the movie to help facilitate my review. I was in no way required to express a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations.

Bonus features include*:

• The Skywalker Legacy – The story lives forever in this feature-length documentary that charts the making of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.
• Pasaana Pursuit: Creating the Speeder Chase – Dive into the making of the movie’s epic landspeeder chase and discover how this spectacular sequence was brought to the screen.
• Aliens in the Desert – See what it took to create the Pasaana desert scenes, from the sheer scale and complexity of the shoot to its colorful details.
• D-O: Key to the Past – Explore the ship that connects Rey to the mystery of her missing parents and get to know the galaxy’s newest, irresistible droid.
• Warwick & Son – Warwick Davis, who played Wicket in Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, dons the Ewok costume once more; this time joined by his son Harrison.
• Cast of Creatures – The team behind the film’s memorable creatures reveal the puppetry, makeup, prosthetics and digital magic that bring them to life!

Digital Exclusive:

• The Maestro’s Finale – Composer John Williams reflects on his body of work for the Star Wars saga and shares insights on scoring Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.

* Digital bonus offerings may vary by retailer.

In celebration of the release, The Art of Fatherhood has created a step-by-step guide to creating your own X-Wing, the perfect activity to do with your kids while practicing social distancing!

Our thoughts on Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker:

It is a long movie but packed FULL of action! I would suggest brushing up on previous movies to get a real handle on characters discussed in this film. I found myself questioning who was mentioned but luckily my son remembers ALL characters so help really helped me with that.

I would say it has strong fighting scenes, subtle love hints and overall was a produced well. The special effects were rather fun to see as the years develop in technologies. I would recommend this movie if you love the series like we do!

What is your favorite Star Wars movie thus far??

Who is your favorite character??

Fight Cabin Fever with the Indoor Game: ProjeX™

 We are in the thick of Social Distancing after our school closed almost 8 days ago! Currently, they are set to stay closed until at least April 20th, 2020. Having said that we have a lot of inside the house time on our hands! New York weather is funny because it still has yet to really warm up! Averaging in the 30s along with snow flurries pretty regularly! What do you do when you are cooped up days on end? Stock up on games!!

let me introduce you to ProjeX™ which features a five game and three skill level activity you can do INDOORS.  A "beginner" setting accommodates even the youngest players in the room.  Play solo, head-to-head, or team up in "Co-Op" mode, which lets two players combine scores.  Best of all, an unlimited number of players can join the fun. 

 **I received a free product to review. I was not required to write a positive review . The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations.
The portable, battery-operated projector includes two blasters, which are stored right on the unit, a built-in LED scoreboard, and a place to keep image slides. ProjeX is battery-powered so it can go wherever you go – inside or out. Play on any blank wall, your garage door – even the side of your house!

SET UP is easy as follows:

1. Install three “AA” alkaline batteries.

2. Set ProjeX on a low table, with the projector aimed at the wall. The projector should be 5 feet from the wall.

3. Slide an image slide into the image slot, rounded side up (if it doesn’t fit, it’s backwards).  Blue = easy, red = medium, white = difficult

4. Plug in both blasters.  Then, if you’re playing solo, unplug one.

5. Press the red power button. You have 45 seconds to adjust the focus.

6. Press the red button again to select game 1-5.

7. Press the blue button to select your level – beginner, advanced or expert.

8. To start playing solo or head-to-head, load your blaster by sliding the button on the top. Each reload gives you 6 shots. You can reload at any time.

9. To start a Co-Op game, where you combine your scores, both players must hold the trigger while they reload.

If you do not plug in your blasters before pressing the red “Power On” button, you may hear a buzzer sound.  If this happens, you may need to reinstall your batteries to reset your machine.

 While recommended for children 6+, ProjeX™ is great for any age child, as well as adults.  Retailing for $49.99, the game can be purchased at Target, Walmart and www.ProjeXGame.com.

Interested in WINNING one a ProjeX™ game console?? 

Click here>>a Rafflecopter giveaway

Spring Roll Recipe

From classic spring rolls to fresh rolls I love eating these. I was especially excited when I realized just how easy they were to make at home!

A Day Around Seneca Lake, NY

There are moments when you wake up in a hotel and just feel so at home. After a wonderful stay at Grist Iron Lodge, I felt this way. I woke up to a wonderful view overlook the Seneca Lake and vineyards. I just wanted to share my day after this experience because I know many of you travel to this area. You may not know some of these great activities and places to visit! After a hearty breakfast at the Grist Iron we started our day off early.

Driving into town I seem to always pass Hector Falls. I do not believe I have ever written about it but had to mention it. If you have the time stop and snap a few photos in front of this waterfall. DO IT! It is so captivating it is worth the time! I will say it is on a busy road, so often times I stand on the opposite side of the road and zoom in to get great shots like the one pictured above!

I have mentioned the Watkins Glen State Park but for so many great reasons, I have to AGAIN! With 19 waterfalls, Olympic sized swimming pool, hiking trails there is so much to take in and see. I also love visiting in the different seasons because everything looks and feels different. Walk under, around and next these wonderful creations of nature.

A fellow writer friend of mine, Erin from World Wanderer suggested yoga while we were visiting. I would never have thought to do such things but it was a wonderful way to start our day off!

Since we were blessed with wonderful weather we took to the Seneca Lake. Every time I visit the area I spend time on the Lake. It really pulls the area together and there is so much you can do. From boating, a schooner trip, paddle boarding you name it, just get you butt out on the water and enjoy it!

Visit some local businesses while in town. We stopped into a Creamery and just explored the farm. I find learning where our food comes from and really immersing yourself in the process helps you enjoy the products more!

Taking that a step further we also visited Distilleries and wineries. The Wine trail is such a significant part of this area, why not enjoy it? If you are interested in these trails check out how I “Drank My Way through the Finger Lakes!”

Another great reason I loved my stay at the Grist Iron was the brewery on the property. After a wonderful day of exploration we could retire to our rooms. Draw a bath put on some comfy clothes and walk to the brewery for some beverages. My time spent in the Seneca Lake region has grown considerably this year. I have learned so much about the area and really enjoyed my stays while in town. I cannot help but share them with all of you in hopes you too will visit and share in my excitement!

Have you ever traveled here? 
If so what places do you enjoy? 

10 Things your Garden Needs this Spring

I miss my garden now that is covered in snow...but that is NOT stopping my planning for this years garden! I have already started my seedlings and charting for where I will put my new plants.