Monday, August 12, 2019

"Avengers: Endgame" movie comes to physical media tomorrow 8/13

Image from Walt Disney Studios
Tomorrow, August 13th, Avengers fans around the world are invited to assemble once more for the physical release of the "Avengers: Endgame" movie on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray™, DVD and On-Demand.

Marvel Studios' "Avengers: Endgame," the climactic conclusion to an unprecedented, 11-year cinematic journey in which the Avengers take one final stand against Thanos, delivered the biggest opening weekend in history and is currently one of the highest-grossing films of all time.

The Avengers franchise has had an unprecedented cinematic journey, spanning several galaxies over the Marvel Cinemati􏰀c Universe's 11 years. Now the newest entry, "Avengers: Endgame," brings to the big screen the highest stakes and deadliest showdown ever between the Avengers and the universe's most powerful and deadliest villain, Thanos.

"Avengers: Endgame" picks up with the Avengers having been soundly defeated by Thanos, who, a􏰁er collec􏰀ng the six Infinity Stones, imposed his twisted will on all of humanity and randomly wiped out half of the world's popula􏰀tion, including many of the Avengers. In the aft􏰁ermath of the destruc􏰀tion, the remaining Avengers are faced with their biggest challenge yet—finding the resolve within themselves to get off the mat and find a way to defeat Thanos once and for all.

Fans who bring home "Avengers: Endgame" will gain hours of additional screen time with their favorite cast members and filmmakers who have shaped the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Bonus features include a tribute to the great Stan Lee; the tale of Robert Downey Jr.'s casting as Iron Man; the evolution of Captain America; Black Widow's dramatic story arc; directors Anthony and Joe Russo's experience at the helm of both "Avengers: Infinity War" and "Avengers: Endgame"; the making of an epic battle scene with the women of the MCU; the creation of Bro Thor; deleted scenes; a gag reel and more.

The must-own, final chapter of the 22-film MCU series, "Avengers: Endgame," will be packaged several ways to ensure fans get the most out of their in-home entertainment experience. Viewers can bring home the film two weeks early on Digital 4K Ultra HD, HD and SD and gain access to an exclusive extra highlighting the love story of Steve Rogers (Captain America) and Peggy Carter. A physical copy of "Avengers: Endgame" is available as a 4K Cinematic Universe Edition (4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and Digital Code), a Multi-Screen Edition (Blu-ray and Digital Code) and a single DVD. Fans who wish to revisit all four films in the Avengers franchise may opt for a Digital bundle, which includes "Marvel's The Avengers," "Avengers: Age of Ultron," "Avengers: Infinity War" and "Avengers: Endgame."

 If you're looking for something funny, check out this hilarious blooper reel : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aZV6rviKyM

BONUS MATERIAL (may vary by retailer):
Digital Exclusive:
·         Steve and Peggy: One Last Dance – Explore Captain America and Peggy Carter's bond, forged in moments from previous films that lead to a momentous choice in "Avengers: Endgame."

Blu-ray & Digital:
·         Remembering Stan Lee – Filmmakers and cast honor the great Stan Lee in a fond look back at his MCU movie cameos.
·         Setting The Tone: Casting Robert Downey Jr. – Hear the tale of how Robert Downey Jr. was cast as Tony Stark in the original "Iron Man" — and launched the MCU.
·         A Man Out of Time: Creating Captain America – Trace the evolution of Captain America with those who helped shape the look, feel and character of this compelling hero.
·         Black Widow: Whatever It Takes – Follow Black Widow's journey both within and outside the Avengers, including the challenges she faced and overcame along the way.
·         The Russo Brothers: Journey to Endgame – See how Anthony and Joe Russo met the challenge of helming two of the biggest films in cinematic history ... back-to-back!
·         The Women of the MCU – MCU women share what it was like to join forces for the first time in an epic battle scene — and be part of such a historic ensemble.
·         Bro Thor – His appearance has changed but his heroism remains! Go behind the scenes to see how Bro Thor was created.
·         Six Deleted Scenes – "Goji Berries," "Bombs on Board," "Suckiest Army in the Galaxy," "You Used to Frickin' Live Here," "Tony and Howard" and "Avengers Take a Knee."
·         Gag Reel – Laugh along with the cast in this epic collection of flubs, goofs and gaffes from set.
·         Visionary Intro - Intro by directors Joe and Anthony Russo.
·         Audio Commentary - Audio commentary by directors Anthony and Joe Russo, and writers Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely.

NOTE: I received a copy of Avengers: Endgame in exchange for the post. Most content is directly from the press release. All opinions are my own.

Tuesday, August 6, 2019

Embracing the moment, reflecting and incorporating mindfulness

I've been spending some time recently thinking about current events and trying to be more mindful about embracing each and every moment I have with my family. Being able to enjoy time with family family is truly a gift.

During the past few years I've found joy in participating in activities with the kids and watching them grow. It is truly a magical thing to watch kids grow up and such a special thing to be able to participate and guide them.

I've learned to slow down, embrace the moment and be more mindful. It's hard work and takes practice. I encourage you to take a few moments each day to find one thing that is your favorite part of the day that happened, one bad part, one thing you did that was kind and one thing that you're grateful for. Being able to notice these things helps to learn each day and enjoy the small moments. It is, after all, all of the small moments that make up this great journey that we call life!

Tuesday, July 30, 2019

Baseball promotions in August at Friendly Fenway and a flash giveaway for a Jerry Garcia Red Sox Shirt

Picnic in the Park benefitting
the Red Sox Foundation
. Photo from RedSox.com
The Red Sox keep the fun promotions and activities heating up during August with giveaways and special theme nights! We are excited to offer a quick giveaway for a limited-edition Jerry Garcia Red Sox shirt, keep on reading for details on how to enter. A few dates to note:

8/1: Margaritaville Night
This special night will include a pre-game concert on Jersey St. by The Island Castaways Band and a limited-edition Margaritaville Red Sox towel.

8/3: Picnic in the Park benefitting the Red Sox Foundation
Picnic in the Park, benefitting Red Sox Foundation, allows families to watch the Red Sox/Yankees gamefrom Fenway Park's outfield. Attendees can enjoy live entertainment, BBQ dinner and can meet Red Sox alumni.

8/6: Brock Holt ALDS Hitting for the Cycle Bobblehead
Brock Holt ALDS Hitting for the Cycle Bobblehead Presented by New Balance for the first 7,500 fans in attendance!
8/6: Jerry Day
This special night celebrates iconic rock legend Jerry Garcia with a pre-game concert on Jersey Street by Terrapin and a limited-edition Jerry Garcia Red Sox shirt using this special link to buy tickets. A portion of proceeds benefit the Red Foundation.

8/13: Movie Night at Fenway - Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
The Red Sox will feature Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse on the centerfield videoboard

Wally's Math Academy
“Wally’s Math Academy” replaces generic word problems with actual game data and is free to educators with the goal of enriching and empowering young students.

Student 9's Ticket Offer for High School, College and Graduate Students
Student 9's offers high school, college and graduate students the opportunity to purchase $9 Red Sox tickets and to receive special offers for student promotions and events.

Here's the details on the quick giveaway for a limited-edition Jerry Garcia Red Sox shirt. Enter using the rafflecopter below:


a Rafflecopter giveaway
NOTE: We are proud to be part of #RedSoxParents and are providing you with this great information. No compensation was provided and all opinions are our own.

Saturday, July 27, 2019

A day that was out of this world! Space Fest 2019 at the JFK Library and Museum celebrating #Apollo50th @jfklibrary #spacefest #JFKMoonshot

Earlier this month, we decided to beat the heat and I heard there was a Space Fest happening at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library in Boston. We went and had a blast (pun intended)! Ok ok... just fair warning, if there are any punny space jokes in this post, I'm apologizing now, I couldn't help myself.

In honor of the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission and the moon landing, there were a bunch of talks on the subject, and we even met an astronaut, Daniel Burbank, who took the time to speak with kids interested in science, math and space. We also had the chance to see a real space suit up close. It was also neat that as we entered the museum they had taped footprints and the lunar module to scale so you could see how far everything was on the moon 50 years ago. The JFK Museum also offered a really neat Augmented Reality simulation on mobile devices through an app that you could use on your personal mobile device. I really enjoyed it.

We walked around and learned about all of the science and research that went into the Apollo 11 mission. There were some really fun activities for the kids, like building your own paper rocket and launching it using a compressed air pump (built and managed by students from MIT) to land on a planet (balloon) by popping it. Other activities included making your own space mission patch, space helmet and playing fun space jeopardy! We decided to play space jeopardy and even though our team didn't win, we got a chance to try some Astronaut Ice Cream - it was so cool (pun intended)! Just kidding, it was freeze dried. One thing I learned at an early age is to not eat that stuff too fast...

We walked around some more and enjoyed real ice cream sundaes with fun space-themed toppings, like pop rocks and moon shaped candy! We made moon landing parachute, fabric moonscapes and even origami landing vehicles. It was a fun time for sure with lots of great activities to inspire the next generation.








Tuesday, July 16, 2019

Bowl with the Pawsox on Thursday July 18 and other fun things in Pawtucket

Join the PawSox at their "Strike Out Cancer" bowling event this Thursday, July 18 from 6:00pm - 9:00pm at East Providence Lanes on 80 Newport Avenue, East Providence, RI 02916.

For only $25.00 per person you receive, bowling shoes, food, and a chance to bowl with some PawSox Players! There will be live and silent auctions to win special Red Sox and PawSox memorabilia, along with other unique prizes.

Other fun things happening around McCoy in the next few weeks include:

Alex Cora Bobblehead Night / Meet Luis Tiant - July 20
Red Sox Hall of Famer Luis Tiant will be on hand to greet fans and sign autographs during our game against the Charlotte Knights on Saturday, July 20, at 6:15pm. We'll also be giving away Alex Cora World Series Bobbleheads to the first 3,000 fans at the gates, and setting off fireworks after the game that are Margaritaville themed.

Play catch in the outfield before the game / Paws for a Cause: TB12 Foundation - July 21
The PawSox will be hosting the TB12 Foundation at McCoy Stadium on Sunday, July 21 to help them put the spotlight on all of the great work they are doing for young athletes in our community. Half the proceeds of every ticket sold through the link in our event page will go directly back to Tom Brady’s Foundation, and help support young athletes throughout our community. Fans can join the PawSox on Sunday for a pregame catch in the outfield from 11:30am-12 Noon, and kids can run the bases after the game with their families.

Free Youth Clinic - August 3
PawSox Youth Clinics are a great (and free) way to get hands-on instruction from our PawSox players and coaches on the field at McCoy Stadium. They take place on 4 Saturdays throughout the season for kids ages 4-14, and are always followed by a photograph and autograph session in our BBQ tent. Kids are invited to get autographs with our players, and stick around for our game and fireworks shows in the evening!

NOTE: We are providing this information as we enjoy Pawtucket Red Sox baseball as much as you do! We are provided tickets in exchange for the posts and our reviews from time to time.

Sunday, July 7, 2019

The latest offerings from Xfinity’s Day of Awesome and Xfinity Kids Week TODAY through 7/14!

This post is sponsored by Comcast.

Comcast Xfinity held a Day of Awesome recently at local Xfinity stores to showcase some of the latest offerings of their TV, Internet, Voice and Mobile services. I’d like to highlight a few things of interest to families. Also, don't miss the first ever Xfinity Kids Week starting today and going through Sunday, July 14. More details below:

APPS
Xfinity Stream is one of the apps that I use on my iPhone or iPad the most around my house as well as on my commute and family trips. Recently we went on a trip to Sesame Place and thanks to Xfinity Stream, I was able to download previously recorded episodes of the kids’ favorite shows to keep them entertained for the car ride!  You can watch more than 200 channels outside the home, download TV shows or On Demand programs so that you can stay entertained when you’re offline.

The xFi app allows Xfinity Internet customers to manage the home wireless network and router using a simple app on their mobile device.  This app and the xFi experience is another reason why you want to rent your wireless gateway from Xfinity,
                                       
Using the Xfinity My Account app, you can easily troubleshoot services, pay a bill, find an Xfinity Store near you, and you can even eliminate hold time by tapping a time that works for you if you need to speak with a Comcast representative! They really have thought a lot about saving time for their customers, which is a must for families when trying to juggle everything.

YOUR HOME NETWORK
We have high expectations when it comes to internet connectivity, especially when it comes to coverage, and Comcast helps this through their xFi Gateways and xFi Pods, giving you fast, reliable WiFi coverage throughout your home. The xFi Advanced Gateway can deliver 1G speeds over WiFi in the home. If you rent the gateway from Xfinity they will swap it out for newer devices whenever they increase their internet speeds. xFi Pods are a powerful mesh WiFi solution that extend reliable WiFi coverage to hard-to-reach areas. When traveling outside the home, as part of the Xfinity internet package you also have access to more than 19 million WiFi hotspots, so you can stay connected on the go at no additional cost.

X1
X1 offers a unique, integrated experience that provides you with access to You can access so many services with the voice remote: live TV, On Demand, Recorded video, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube, Pandora, NPR, Sling International, and iHeartRadio. They are going to be partnering with Amazon Music to offer that option as well on the X1 platform! One of my favorite things about the X1 remote is that I can have it turn on my TV, Surround Sound system and wake up my X1 box all by pressing the power button. Magical!

TV
If you have a 4K TV, Xfinity just added a bunch of new content – including the Women’s World Cup coverage as well as 4K content from X1-integrated apps like Netflix, YouTube and Amazon Prime Video. Xfinity offers the largest 4K library that aggregates 4K programming from Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube and more (as long as you have a 4K TV and a 4K box from Xfinity).  In years past, Xfinity has made signature events available in 4K on demand including the Olympics and World Cup. You can have a 4K box shipped to you or arrange for a professional installation. There is no additional cost for 4K service from Xfinity.

KIDS WEEK 7/8-7/14
From Monday, July 8 to Sunday, July 14, Xfinity is hosting the first ever Kids Week offering dozens of movies and shows for kids for free all week long, at home and on the go! During Kids Week, Xfinity TV customers will have access to the full catalog of Xfinity On Demand programming from networks and premium services such as Disney Story Central, Kids Central, Kids Central en Espanol, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr., Nick en Espanol, PBS Kids, Primo TV and VME Kids. Additionally, networks including Cartoon Network, Cartoon Network en Espanol, Discovery Family, Discovery Familia, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Disney XD and Universal Kids will offer a selection of some of their most popular shows and movies for customers to enjoy free throughout the week. All of this great content will be made available across Xfinity TV platforms including X1 and the Xfinity Stream app and portal. Xfinity customers without an Xfinity TV subscription can also log in to Stream using their credentials to enjoy a selection of free TV shows and movies, too.

Monday, July 1, 2019

Our reaction to Toy Story 4 and some updates (and a giveaway!) for two Disney favorites

Over the weekend, we had the chance to see the new Disney-Pixar film, Toy Story 4, which is the latest in the Toy Story series. It was a heartwarming tale complete with some surprises and plot twists! I don't want to give any details away so you'll just have to see it. My kids said it was "awesome" and "one part is sad, and another part is scary with a few creepy dummies." It was nice to meet some of the new characters, especially Duke Caboom, Giggle Mcdimples and Forky!

We also got to play some Toy Story 4 themed games and win some fun prizes at the Toy Story 4 Summer Tour when it stopped in Somerville's Assembly Row a few weeks beforehand. So fun!!

Also last week, Disney released two classics on digital... the live-action version of Dumbo and the 70th anniversary digital remastery of Cinderella.

We are pleased to offer a giveaway for both Dumbo and Cinderella! Enter through the rafflecopter here:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Dumbo,” the grand live-action adventure from Disney and visionary director Tim Burton, which expanded on the beloved animated classic and sent spirits soaring, is now available on Blu-ray™ and DVD, as well as in digital format, all with never-before-seen bonus features, deleted scenes, Easter eggs and bloopers.

Stunning extras will transport viewers to the set of “Dumbo,” where cast members Danny DeVito (circus owner Max Medici), Michael Keaton (opportunistic businessman V.A. Vandevere), Colin Farrell (war-veteran-turned-elephant-keeper Holt Farrier), Eva Green (stunning aerialist Colette Marchant), Nico Parker (Farrier’s daughter, Milly) and Finley Hobbins (Farrier’s son, Joe) share their personal stories of courage and character. Features explore how Disney’s timeless animated story was brought to life with an incredibly expressive, lovable, fully computer-generated baby elephant; the longtime collaboration of Burton, production designer Rick Heinrichs and costume designer Colleen Atwood, which resulted in jaw-dropping sets and costumes; and the creation of the visually colossal Dreamland parade sequence. Also included are nine deleted scenes, hidden and not-so-hidden Easter eggs, bloopers and a special performance of “Baby Mine” by Arcade Fire.

The Anniversary Edition of “Cinderella” offers two all-new extras: “Cinderella” trivia and fun facts, hosted by Ruth Righi and Ava Kolker from Disney Channel’s “Sydney to the Max,” and “In Walt’s Words: Enhanced Edition,” a special edition of “Cinderella” featuring fascinating production details, original storyboards, archival photos, thumbnail sketches and transcripts throughout the feature film. Hours of classic bonus material celebrates the masterful animation, memorable music and long-lasting impact of “Cinderella,” showcasing Walt Disney’s core group of animators, the art of Disney Legend Mary Blair, the original demo recording of the film’s title song and Cinderella’s iconic glass slipper.