Happy Midsummer

Be Prepared This Summer - And Always

Extreme weather is becoming more and more common and more and more extreme. It’s never been more important for a family to have a cohesive, well-thought-out disaster plan. Summer is a great time to get your entire family interested in disaster awareness. Learn about disasters, collect gear from around your home, and practice drills while the kids are home from school. Floods, wildfires, tornadoes. Every month sets new records. Even climate scientists are surprised by how fast our world is changing. If you’ve been lucky enough to avoid extreme weather events, good for you! How long do you think your luck will last? The website Here Comes The Apocalypse is bountiful with information for all kinds of disaster preparedness, and it is put together in a fun and informative way!

The Disaster Playbook makes preparing for disasters easy and fun. Existing resources are dull and assume you're ready to wear a tinfoil hat and buy a bunker. What about the rest of us? Written for the modern family, the Disaster Playbook breaks down practical, achievable steps for families to tackle together. You can get the Basics set or the Bundle, which is what we got, and it is super helpful! I never really thought to prepare for a disaster until we moved to Florida, and Hurricane season happened. Here is what is included in the Bundle:

✓ The Disaster Playbook

✓ 2 I Will Thrive Manuals

✓ Disaster Deep Dive PDF

✓ 2 Grab & Go Checklists

✓ Master of Disaster Fillable Form

✓ 10 Emergency Buddies

✓ Important Papers Pack

✓ Bonus Sticker Sheet

✓ Bonus Sharpie 

Check it all out at Hello Apocalypse on Facebook, as well as Hello Apocalypse on Instagram.

~Hayley

 Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Happy Summer Solstice

Summer Skin Care That Gives Back

A recent survey by the Natural Marketing Institute found that 59% of U.S. Consumers prefer natural and organic personal care products. This statistic reflects a growing awareness and demand for products that champion wellness and sustainability and are affordable for all. Comprised of all-natural formulations, biodegradable packaging, and manufactured in a solar-powered facility, J.R. Liggett’s shampoo, conditioner, body oil bars, and shaving foam are the picture of sustainable self-care. Made with essential oils that keep the hair and body clean, healthy, and hydrated, J.R. Liggett's is committed to providing eco-friendly products that support both personal well-being and the environment. J.R. Liggett’s shampoo products come in a convenient bar, reducing the number of plastic bottles thrown away and not contributing to massive landfills. J.R. Liggett’s sustainable design isn’t just about better packaging: commercial shampoos often contain chemicals that can disturb ecosystems, making these bars the better choice for the environment. Consumers can confidently enjoy their favorite products, knowing that their choice contributes to a cleaner, greener environment. These shampoo bars are quite versatile and can also be used as a very mild body soap, shaving soap, and can even be used to wash clothing. Their multifunctionality is proof of their effective formula and also convenient for reducing waste!

J.R. Liggett’s Shampoo bars come in six different varieties to choose from:

- Original Formula, Herbal Formula

- Jojoba & Peppermint Formula

- Moisturizing Formula

- Tea Tree & Hemp Oil Formula

- Virgin Coconut & Argan Oil Formula.

Each shampoo bar is composed of a 100% vegetable oil formulation that lathers quickly, cleans well, hydrates, and rinses out easily. It will not strip the natural oils from your hair (there are no detergents). The primary ingredients include GMO free: Saponified Olive Oil, Coconut Oil/ Virgin Coconut Oil, and Castor Oil.

“We believe in the power of nature, not only in the ingredients we use but also in how we deliver them to our customers,” said Jim Liggett, “Our commitment to sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We’re not just offering high-quality products, we’re making a positive impact on the planet.”

Check it all out at J.R. Liggett's on Facebook, as well as J.R. Liggett's on Instagram.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

#WhatchaReading Wednesday 6/18

It's #WhatchaReading Wednesday! Maybe you can find someone reading the same thing as you, or get some new recommendations! I am halfway through the 2nd book in the Hades x Persephone series by Scarlett St. Clair. I love this series so far. It has gotten me out of my book-reading slump, I think. I like that every other book switches who is telling the story - Persephone first, then Hades. It is interesting, and I am finding I like reading books about the Gods - Greek or otherwise!

Game of Fate

Hades, God of the Underworld, is known for his inflexible rule, luxurious nightclubs, and impossible bargains. Used to control, he is not prepared to discover the Fates have chosen his future wife and Queen - Persephone, Goddess of Spring. Despite her attraction to the god, Persephone, an ambitious journalism student, is determined to expose Hades for his cruel and ruthless ways. Hades finds himself faced with the impossible - proving his future bride wrong. Despite his efforts, there are forces who wish to keep the two apart, and Hades comes to realize he will do anything for his forbidden love, even defy Fate.

#WhatchaReading? We would love to know!

Summer Get Together Must-Haves #Summer2025

This summer, while you are entertaining, grilling out, or just hanging with the fam, here are some must-haves:

The Sausage Guy Ballpark Grill Box is a 9.45 lb. meat lover’s dream, featuring chicken and hot sausages. Prepared raw and vacuum-sealed, these sausages are perfect for the grill or frying pan and arrive on dry ice within two days of shipment. Includes Chicken Sausage, Asian Sparerib Sausage, Hot Sausage, and Sweet Sausage. The Story Behind the Sausage: This offering grew out of The Sausage Guy’s pandemic-era reinvention. When catering came to a halt in 2020, founder David Littlefield and his team began creating “Sausage Boxes” and delivering them directly to Boston-area EMS, firefighters, and police, supporting frontline workers while keeping inventory moving. That initiative has since grown into a permanent offering, now available for shipping nationwide.

Meet LumiCup - a true game changer for the drinkware market and planet. This innovative, single-use aluminum cup is set to revolutionize the way we enjoy our beverages and protect our environment. A durable cup offering unparalleled functionality, style (fully customizable), sustainability, and more. Why LumiCup is great for this summer (and beyond): Keeps drinks cold 70% longer than plastic cups – ideal for beers, cocktails, or any chilled drink. Sleek and sturdy design that looks great and feels even better in-hand. Fully recyclable and made with patent-pending technology – perfect for eco-conscious individuals. Great for hosting, BBQs, tailgating, or just kicking back with a cold one.

Let the snacking revolution begin! By combining the natural sweetness of dates with the irresistible flavours of beloved classics, True Dates are an innovative taste sensation that's even better than candy.

Pändy believes that snacks can and should be a part of a healthy lifestyle. They produce better-for-you products without ever compromising on taste. They take popular traditional snacks and flavors and make healthier, but just as tasty, versions of them.

Just Ice Tea is an organic, fair-trade, real-brewed tea line from activist entrepreneur Seth Goldman and celebrity chef Spike Mendelsohn. With the Just Sweet Enough and unsweetened varieties, they are creating a healthier future for farmers, the planet, and you - one sip at a time!

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

June - World Infertility Awareness Month

Sips For #Summer2025

Summer is the perfect time to gear up with the best essentials. Whether you're lounging on the beach, exploring a new city, or going on an outdoor adventure, hydration is key! VitaWild is an electrolyte mix that keeps you hydrated on the go. VitaWild is compact and travel-friendly – ideal for tossing into your carry-on, adding to your beach bag or sharing with friends. Packed with premium ingredients and a full dose of vitamin D, VitaWild is formulated without artificial additives, colors, or preservatives – helping you hydrate smarter and feel your best.

Symbi is a woman-run, mission driven company that believes in naturopathic health and herbal medicine as a form of healing. They are passionate about creating blends that benefit your mind, body, and soul. We sampled some of the teas from them, as tea is big for us right now.

Sweet Dreams Tea - Flavor: Refreshing and minty.

Liver Support - Flavor: Earthy and spicy.

Daily Hydration - Flavor: Refreshing, tart, and fruity.

Wild Society has an Energy Drink with Nootropics. A smart energy drink infused with potent nootropics and performance-enhancing nutrients for all-day focus and energy. I really enjoy the different flavors, and even trust the ingredients so much that I am okay with Callan drinking this.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Happy Father's Day #FathersDay2025

Happy Flag Day

Happy Birthday US Army

Bear Mountain BBQ #Summer2025

Grilling season is finally here, and Bear Mountain BBQ is ready with exciting new blends, fan favorites, and the hardwood craftsmanship that’s earned the brand a trusted role in backyard BBQs nationwide. With over three decades of perfecting how to turn high-quality hardwood into fuel that delivers rich, consistent smoke, Bear Mountain brings the best big, bold, wood-fired flavor on any brand and type of grill.

We got the Gourmet Blend this time, and it is a game changer! The perfect blend of 100% premium, all-natural Oak, Hickory, Maple, and Cherry hardwoods – no flavorings, fillers, or additives. Low moisture for the perfect smoke. We grill a lot on our Traeger, and whether it is dogs or burgers, or something bigger like a whole ham, we love using Bear Mountain pellets to add to the flavor and make our meals memorable!

Check it all out at Bear Mountain BBQ on Facebook, as well as Bear Mountain BBQ on X, and Bear Mountain BBQ on Instagram.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

CASEKOO #Summer2025 Collab W/ Manyu

Working in the summer sometimes sucks when all you want to do is play. Sometimes you need a break, and we all go to our phones for that. Trying to sneak away from a busy day? Or simply need a chill coffee chat with a beloved one from far away? Your phone always seems to slip at the worst moment, especially when you can’t find a place to put it. No worries! Discover the magic of The Pawfect Chill Time case set, CASEKOO’s latest collab series with the renowned puppy Manyu, who has over 30 million followers across social media.

Now your phone can not only stand on its own but also match your mood, thanks to the swappable magic stickers featuring Manyu’s different chill expressions.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Good Boy Vodka RTD Lemonades & Teas #Summer2025

When it comes to summer by the pool, we like to kick back and relax on the weekends. Sometimes that includes a little cocktail to add to the vibe. But I do not want to be getting in and out of the pool to mix a drink. That's why I'm excited that Good Boy Vodka has just released the drink of the summer: ready-to-drink canned vodka lemonades in four bold flavors, which also help support women's causes. Meet your new favorite ready-to-drink cocktails: Strawberry Lemonade, Pink Lemonade, Tropical Lemonade, and Huckleberry Lemonade. Each 110-calorie can is crafted with ultra-premium vodka and delivers a crisp, fruit-forward flavor with the perfect balance of sweet and tart, made for any occasion. I think my fave is the Pink Lemonade, but it is hard to choose!

Vodka lemonades not your thing? Never fear - their John Daly iced teas are just as delicious and endorsed by the man himself. Inspired by the legendary pro golfer, John Daly, the ready-to-drink cocktails have the perfect combination of natural tea, fruit juice, and premium Good Boy Vodka with no carbonation.​ The flavors are Iced Tea and Lemonade, Raspberry Iced Tea, and Blackberry Iced Tea. Jason really digs the Raspberry!

And it doesn't stop there. Good Boy Vodka is a brand rooted in philanthropy. Through its “Pour for Purpose” platform, the brand is expanding its mission to support breast cancer research and women’s wellness, while continuing its work with veterans and service dogs through The Good Boy Foundation. Good Boy Vodka’s slogan is, “Every Pour Helps a Pup” and it gives a portion of its profits to charities that support animals, American Veterans, and Warrior dogs. We love love love any brand that works with Veterans, as many of you know, Jason is a Wounded Warrior! Good Boy sent us some swag for our baby girl, Glory, too! She loves her squeaky toy canned vodka about as much as I love the lemonades! They have some super cool merch!

Check it all out at Good Boy Vodka on Facebook, as well as Good Boy Vodka on Instagram.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Summer Essentials #Summer2025

Now that Summer is settling in nicely, we can start to enjoy it! Here are some great finds to help you enjoy the season!

Hanging Solar Lanterns from Luxury In The Outdoors - With an air of retro elegance and luxury, these lanterns effortlessly blend vintage charm with contemporary functionality. Not just aesthetically pleasing, these lanterns are also practical and eco-friendly. Their LED lights are energy-efficient and rechargeable through integrated solar panels. Whether you’re lounging in your garden patio, having a cozy dinner on the outdoor table, or embarking on a wilderness adventure, these lights are your companions in creating an ambient atmosphere. I love how quickly they power up and the nice glow they add in the evening, sitting by the pool!

Keep hands fresh and clean - no sink required! Whether it's arts and crafts, s'mores by the fire, or a messy lunchtime at the picnic table, Handzies Soap + Water Wipes give kids a gentle, natural clean anytime, anywhere. Individually packaged for easy grab-and-go convenience, they're perfect for day camp, sleepaway camp, and every outdoor adventure. Made with pure castile soap, water, and essential oils, these wipes skip the harsh chemicals - no alcohol, BZK, triclosan, artificial perfumes, or dyes - so your child’s hands stay fresh and irritation-free. Tuck them in backpacks, lunchboxes, and camp duffels for a summer of clean fun.

A load of fun can be found on Relateable! Here are just a few of the endless fun finds: Hydrobursts make splashy summer fun easier than ever. They are self-sealing and reusable - perfect for pool days, beach trips, and backyard battles. Available in various shapes and packs of 6 or 10! Cozy Concepts Co. Ice Cream Cooling Blanket is a breathable, sweet, refreshing solution that keeps those hot summer nights cool and comfortable. Emotional Support Pals Ice Cream is the perfect summer plush featuring five uniquely squeezable scoops - ideal for relaxing at home, vacation, or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up. Tower Stack is an easy-to-set-up summer favorite where players take turns stacking blocks to build the tallest tower without toppling - perfect for backyard fun and friendly competition. QU!CK QU!CK QU!CK is a fast-paced, easy-to-learn party game created in partnership with Dreambo & Wondery. Full of hilarious prompts that bring nonstop laughs and energy to any summer hangout. Available this July!

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

June - Alzheimer's & Brain Health Awareness Month

Great Dad's Day Gifts - Something for Every Dad #FathersDay2025

Father's Day is fast approaching, and we have something for every Dad on your list! Check it all out!

High Camp Flasks create premium, shareable drinkware designed for the outdoors. Each piece is crafted from distiller-grade 18/8 stainless steel and is entirely BPA, phthalate, and plastic-free. These flasks are made to last, pour beautifully, and travel anywhere Dad goes. The Firelight Flask 750 – 3-in-1 Cocktail set is a 750ml insulated flask that travels like a bottle but pours like a bar. Two magnetic tumblers attach seamlessly to the flask using High Camp’s patented PhantomLock system. The diamond-grip cap, wide mouth for ice, and electropolished interior round out the details. Jason really liked this. He was jazzed that he could use it for so many different occasions, and versatile enough that he could use it for the situations that don't call for liquor as well, like work, though I am sure he would prefer that! *wink*

The folks at Chike loved coffee, so they made it even better with protein! Don’t settle for sugary drinks - level up your morning with Chike Original High Protein Iced Coffee. A classic espresso and cream iced latte. Each serving has 20g of protein, 2 shots of espresso, and only 1g of sugar. Perfect for the morning pick-me-up, and I love the added protein!

Oftentimes, when you are asked to pray for a person, you pray for that person at that time, right in the moment. Often, we quickly forget to offer a prayer again while we shuffle back into our daily routine, but God tells us to pray continuously. So, PrayerBowls created a split bowl that can be used for both your prayer intentions and your answered prayers. Each prayer bowl comes with a set of PrayerCards, a PrayerBowl Story Card, and is etched with the wording "with hope" & "with thanks" or "prayers" & "blessings" on the interior side of the bowl. This is a beautifully crafted bowl and I am proud to display it in our home, and use it as a family as a daily reminder to pray and keep on praying.

Featuring prebiotics, probiotics, and CoreBiome postbiotics, Primal Gut Restore strengthens gut flora, supports the intestinal lining, and promotes a balanced, healthy digestive system.

Blended with five collagen types, Primal Multi Collagen supports skin elasticity, hair strength, and joint health in convenient daily capsules for total body wellness.

Old Trapper's Jalapeno Deli Style Beef Sticks will knock out your craving for bold and tasty beef. And at 15oz to a pack, your hunger doesn't stand a chance. Old Trapper’s Teriyaki Kippered Beef sweetens our delicious lean, smoked beef with the flavor of teriyaki. It’s a sweet treat that isn’t the least bit sinful.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

D-Day Rememberance

#WhatchaReading Wednesday 6/4

It's #WhatchaReading Wednesday! Maybe you can find someone reading the same thing as you, or get some new recommendations! I am almost done with the second book in the If Love series by Ana Huang. I am struggling. Not that it is a bad book or series, but I think I have ruined myself for anything but fantasy!

If the Sun Never Sets

Five years ago, he broke her heart. Now, he’ll do anything to win her back. When Farrah walked into her lunch meeting, she didn’t expect to see him. Blake Ryan. Her first love, her first heartbreak, and now, her first client as a freelance interior designer. It’s been five years, but she’ll never forget the way he shattered her. He whispers pretty words, but she’ll never believe him. Her body craves his, but she’ll never give him her heart. Not again. Not ever.

Money. Looks. A booming sports bar empire. On the surface, Blake has it all, but inside, he's haunted - both by nightmares of a tragic loss and dreams of the girl he once betrayed. When fate reunites them, he sees it as a sign: it’s time to get the love of his life back. No matter what it takes.

#WhatchaReading? We would love to know!

Mimbleballs #Sensory Comfort Companions

Mimbleballs are round, plush therapy toys and stress relievers with super-soft, zany, sculptable hair that surprise people with joy, emotional relief, comfort, connection, and unexpected laughter. Mimbleballs and Mini Mimbles have helped countless organizations and individuals, such as hospitals, school counselors, therapists, memory care units, and so much more! They now offer an incredibly popular weighted option. Mimbleballs aren't stuffed animals, so they are perfect for all ages, including teens and adults! Mimbleballs come in different sizes and 6 fun color combinations, and are also available in pencil form!

We got Mini Gabe and Original Vanessa! Gabe loves to listen to a good book, a story, or all about your day. Gabe will sit happily for hours, passing the time with you!

Vanessa is weighted an extra 11 ounces for some added sensory comfort! She loves to dream with you about wild ideas, funny jokes, and endless stories. Hang on to your bestie, Vanessa!

Check it all out at Mimbleball on Facebook, as well as Mimbleball on X, and Mimbleball on Instagram.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

June - Men's Health Awareness Month

Seeking Products For Upcoming Roundups June 2025

We are currently developing several upcoming features and roundups and are looking for collaborators and products to review. If you're interested in partnering with us, please contact us at callansparents@yahoo.com. We look forward to connecting with you!

Father's Day Gift Guide 2025 - Deadline 6/9

Sensory products for older teens and adults

Summer/4th of July

Laundry Essentials

Further out:

Anime Product Roundup

Back To School

Cruise Essentials

Our Annual BookTober Blog Series

Happy Birthday To Hubby & My Mama