Norton Spot Helps Protect Android Phones from Madware

In this technology-driven world, but sons have managed to easily learn how to use a tablet and smartphones. It didn’t take long before Ethan was downloading new games and apps and teaching himself how to play them. One day I was looking at our Samsung Galaxy Tablet powered by Android and noticed some new shortcuts for ‘Free Apps’ and ‘Free Job Search’ and a bunch of similar notification in the notification bar. I deleted the shortcuts and cleared the notifications, but had no idea where they came from. The only thing I knew to do was delete most of the apps on the tablet (which my son was not very happy about).

I recently learned about Madware and it has shed some light on these annoying new shortcuts and notifications. Madware is aggressive mobile adware that affects Android devices. It uses aggressive techniques to place advertising in photo albums, calendar entries and push messages to your notification bar. Madware can even go so far as to replace ringtones with an ad. After I learned about Madware, I looked at the tablet’s photo gallery and found 5 new photo folders with pictures that were ads. Seriously? That is insane! Most apps, especially free ones, have some form of ads and Madware is becoming more and more frequent. No only do you have to deal with all those ads while using the app, but now ads are being placed all over your device that you will see when you are not using the app. Less popular apps are 135% more likely to contain the worse forms of Madware than popular apps.

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I’m a Pull-Ups ‘First Flush’ Ambassador

Huggies Pull-Ups Party

Last week, I shared with you my quick tips for potty training and the start of the potty training journey with my two year old. So far things are going pretty well. We’ve had some struggles, but that is expected. Some days he doesn’t want to use the potty at all, but we work through it with patience. I know that each and every flush is a reason to celebrate. We like to celebrate each flush with an enthusiastic high five, but of course a big brother’s high-five is better than a Mom’s. His three year old brother has been encouraging him just as much as I have. I couldn’t be more proud of the two of them.

This week, I am proud to announce that I am a Pull-Ups ‘First Flush’ Ambassador! Over the next month I will share with you our progress, more potty training tips and more.  I will also be hosting a Pull-Ups “Why Wait – Let’s Celebrate! First Flush Party” for my friends and their children in January.The party is sure to be full of fun and games.

Do you have a little one that is currently potty training or about to start? If so, you can apply to host your very own ‘First Flush’ party! If selected you will get a Party Pack that includes:

  • Engaging activities to get tots excited about starting potty training
  • Celebration party hats and noisemakers to cheer on potty training success
  • Exclusive Pull-Ups® Potty Training Fun Celebration App sticker
  • Pull-Ups® Training Pants for every Big Kid® at the party
  • Pull-Ups® coupon books
  • And more!

To apply, fill out the form on the Pull-Ups Facebook Page. Sign ups are only open until the end of the December. Don’t forget to visit Pull-Ups.com for potty training tips and resources.

Huggies Pull-Ups First Flush House Party

“I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Pull-Ups. I received product samples to facilitate my review and to host a party. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating.”

Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! is Coming to the Fox Theatre on January 18th

Yo Gabba Gabba Live in St. LouisOne of my sons’ favorite shows is Yo Gabba Gabba. They love dancing around the house and singing the songs even when the show is not on. I just found out that Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! Get the Sillies Out! is coming to the Fox Theatre next month! I have heard great things about their live shows and I cannot wait to take my kids. The shows are very interactive and fun for the whole family.

SHOW INFORMATION

YO GABBA GABBA! LIVE! GET THE SILLIES OUT! TOUR will visit THE FABULOUS FOX THEATRE on Friday, January 18th at 7 PM ONLY!

Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! Get the Sillies Out! Tour hits the Fabulous Fox Theatre for one show only on Friday, January 18th! Catch DJ Lance Rock, Biz Markie and your favorite cast of colorful creatures as they jump, shake and shimmy the sillies out!

Yo Gabba Gabba! LIVE! is a state-of-the-art production and an interactive experience that offers audiences of all ages the opportunity to witness their favorite characters come to life when DJ Lance Rock and fans say the magic words, “Yo Gabba Gabba!”. Hip-hop legend Biz Markie will join the cast on stage for Yo Gabba Gabba! LIVE!: Get the Sillies Out! with Biz’s Beat of the Day. The show will also feature Super Music Friends and Dancey Dance guest performances.

Tickets and Gabba Party Packages are on sale NOW!  Purchase tickets at the Fox Box Office, www.metrotix.com or by calling (314)534-1111.

I hope to see you there!

If you are not in the St. Louis area, you can view the entire tour schedule here.

Yo Gabba Gabba Live at Fox Theatre

I am receiving complimentary tickets to the show and in no other way being compensated for this post. All opinions expressed are 100% mine.

Holiday Gift Guide Featuring HP, PetSmart, Hallmark & More

Nifty Mom's 2012 Holiday Gift GuideCan you believe Christmas is next week!?! I am finishing up some last minute shopping online and we going to venture out to a few stores late this weekend, UGH. Have you finished your shopping yet? I just wanted to remind you of my Holiday Gift Guide I put together this year that features some great products that I recommend for stockings, kids and that special someone. Some of the products you will find include an HP Portable Bluetooth Speaker, PetSmart’s Luv-A-Pet collection, and great holiday gifts from Hallmark.

HP Portable SpeakerThe HP Portable Bluetooth Speaker was the perfect pick for my husband. Apple? Android? PC?  It doesn’t matter as long it has Bluetooth capabilities, it will work with this speaker! It is small and light-weight with a sleek design. I love that I can easily move it from room to room in my house with no cords to mess with. It can be conveniently be placed anywhere and is great for the garage and patio. And the performance is superb, filling the room with a quality sound. Learn more at HP.com.

PetSmart Luv-A-Pet Bret Michaels PlushDo you have an animal lover in your life? Give a gift that gives back with PetSmart Luv-A-Pet products. The line includes plush animals, ultrasoft microplush blankets, and ornaments. With every product purchased, PetSmart donates 10% of the price to PetSmart Charities to help save homeless pets. How cute is this Bret Michaels Pets Rock Plush? View the collection on PetSmart.com.

Don’t forget to pick up greeting cards, ornaments, gifts and keepsakes from Hallmark. They have so many great products, I keep going back for more. Check out my review here of some of their holiday products.

Click here for my full 2012 Holiday Gift Guide.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

 

I received samples of the mentioned products and was in no other way compensated. All opinions are 100% my own.

5 Things to Consider Before Traveling This Holiday Season

 

The holidays are a great time to visit friends and relatives, but holiday travel can be a hassle. Learn how to take the stress out of holiday travel by making these five considerations prior to embarking on a trip.

Avoid Illness
Traveling can expose you and your family to cold and flu germs, but being proactive about staying healthy while on the go can greatly reduce your risk of becoming ill this holiday season.

Stay hydrated and pack healthy snacks to take on a lengthy car trip or flight. Wash hands frequently, and be sure not to touch your face after touching a railing, seat back or anything else that someone who is ill could have touched.

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