Save $100 on the Exciting New HP Envy x360 Laptop at Best Buy Through 7/28/18

Windows 10 brings back the Start Menu from Windows 7 and introduces new features, like the Edge Web browser that lets you markup Web pages on your screen. 

Save $100 until 7/28

Here at ChiIL Mama, I'm a full time blogger and freelance writer with two busy kids still at home, so tech flexibility is key. That's why I was thrilled to be asked to partner up with Best Buy and HP on a sponsored post. I have been compensated for sharing info on the HP Envy x360 laptop with my readers. In fact, I'm currently writing this on my laptop in the car, in a parking lot. I spent an hour this morning writing at my desk, then hit the road early to drop off both of my kids out of state for an acting gig. 

Almost everyone I know has busy, complicated lives, so a device that can transfer from a laptop to a tablet in seconds, has a write on the screen, and works fast makes my life simpler and lets me work smarter, not harder. If you're thinking of upgrading, check out the HP Envy x360 laptop at Best Buy and save $100 through 7/28/18. 

HP Envy x360 laptops are 2-in-1 devices that can transfer from a laptop to a tablet in seconds. These touch-screen laptops come with Windows Ink capabilities and a Windows operating system so you can write on the screen with your stylus. AMD processors make them fast and thin so you can take them with you anywhere you go!


Here's the scoop:
Built for Windows Ink
Quickly jot down notes and ideas with ease.

Full HD touch screen
The 1920 x 1080 resolution boasts impressive color and clarity. Natural finger-touch navigation makes the most of Windows 10. IPS technology for wide viewing angles. Energy-efficient WLED backlight.

8GB system memory for advanced multitasking
Substantial high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run your games and photo- and video-editing applications, as well as multiple programs and browser tabs all at once.

360° flip-and-fold design
Offers versatile functionality with laptop, audience, tabletop, presentation and tablet modes.

Click here to check out more details on the HP Envy 13in and the HP Envy 15in.

Disclosure: I have been compensated for sharing info on the HP Envy x360 laptop with my readers. As always, all opinions are my own

NEW RELEASE: Prehistoric Sized Fun With LEGO Jurassic World, Now Available in North America #LEGOJurassicGame #Tech #VideoGames

WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT, TT GAMES,

THE LEGO GROUP AND UNIVERSAL PARTNERSHIPS & LICENSING

WELCOME VISITORS TO LEGO® JURASSIC WORLD™ 

All Four Jurassic Films in One Action-Packed Video Game, Roaring Into Stores 6/12

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, TT Games, The LEGO Group and Universal Partnerships & Licensing today announced that LEGO® Jurassic World™ is now available in North America for the PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment systems, PlayStation®Vita handheld entertainment system, Xbox One all-in-one games and entertainment system, the Xbox 360 games and entertainment system from Microsoft, the Wii U™ system from Nintendo, Nintendo 3DS™ hand-held system and Windows PC.

For the first time, the Jurassic Park franchise comes to LEGO video games, spanning more than two decades of epic films from Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment, including Jurassic Park, The Lost World: Jurassic Park, Jurassic Park III, as well as the highly anticipated Jurassic World, opening today. Reimagined with TT Games’ signature LEGO humor, the thrilling adventure recreates unforgettable scenes and action sequences from the films, allowing fans to experience for themselves the franchise’s most memorable moments and the opportunity to fully explore the expansive grounds of Isla Nublar and Isla Sorna.

“LEGO Jurassic World immerses fans directly into the action of the iconic film franchise,” said Tom Stone, Managing Director, TT Games. “From playing as a dinosaur for the first time in a LEGO game, to creating customized dinosaurs, LEGO Jurassic World takes players on a memorable, T. rex-sized journey through Isla Nublar and beyond.”

In LEGO Jurassic World, players can take on the roles of exciting Jurassic film characters, such as Owen Grady (Chris Pratt), Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard), Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum) and Dr. Wu (BD Wong), throughout 20 story levels on a mission to collect precious amber containing dinosaur DNA.  Players can use the DNA to build their dino collection, mix their pieces to create an original species with the Dino Customizer by mixing and matching color, body parts and abilities or fill the giant footsteps of the LEGO dinosaurs and actually play the game as the beasts themselves!

Additionally, gamers can explore the expansive open world grounds of Isla Nublar and Isla Sorna and play with family and friends using LEGO video games’ classic drop-in, drop-out co-op gameplay. 

Also launching today is the Jurassic World DLC Pack, giving players access to six new characters, two new vehicles, the JURASSIC Response Unit and the JURASSIC WORLD Shuttle and more. The Jurassic World DLC Pack is available for purchase at local and digital retailers for $1.99. 

Experience even more within LEGO Jurassic World with the Jurassic Park Trilogy Pack #1, which grants access to three characters and one vehicle including, Dino Handler, Eric Kirby and Paul Kirby and the Animal Control Vehicle, which is available for purchase for $0.99. Players can also purchase the Jurassic Park Trilogy Pack #2 for $0.99, which provides access to three characters and one vehicle including, Jurassic Park Helicopter Pilot, Lex and Tim Murphy and Iain Malcolm’s San Diego Cruiser.

LEGO Jurassic World is rated “E10+” for everyone 10 and older by the ESRB and is now available for PS4 and Xbox One for the suggested retail price of $59.99 and for PS3, Xbox 360 and Wii U for the suggested retail price of $49.99. The game is also available now for PS Vita and Nintendo 3DS for the suggested retail price of $29.99.

For more information, please visit:
https://www.facebook.com/LEGOJurassic
http://twitter.com/LEGOJurassic
http://instagram.com/LEGOJurassic

About Jurassic World

The story of Steven Spielberg’s original comes full circle as the park that was only a promise comes to life.  Welcome to Jurassic World, a fully operational luxury resort off the coast of Costa Rica where 20,000 guests explore the wonder of Earth’s most magnificent living prehistoric marvels—of every shape and size—and interact up close with them every day.

When the massive and mysterious Indominus rex stages an escape and disappears into the jungle, order turns to mayhem and guests turn into prey. Dinosaurs escape into the open, skies and water to engage in an all-out war for survival, and no corner within the world’s greatest theme park is safe anymore.

Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Vincent D’Onofrio, Ty Simpkins, Nick Robinson, Omar Sy, BD Wong and Irrfan Khan star in the 3D epic action-adventure that is directed by Colin Trevorrow and based on characters created by Michael Crichton. The screenplay is by Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver and Derek Connolly & Trevorrow, and the story is by Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver.  Frank Marshall and Patrick Crowley join the team as producers. www.jurassicworld.com

About TT Games

TT Games (www.ttgames.com) is the combined publishing and development group behind the hit LEGO videogame franchises such as LEGO® Star Wars™, LEGO® Indiana Jones™, LEGO® Batman™, and LEGO® Harry Potter™.  Incorporating renowned UK developer Traveller’s Tales, TT Games has a distinctive focus on console, handheld, mobile and PC games of the highest quality, aimed at young gamers and their families.

About the LEGO Group

The LEGO Group is a privately held, family-owned company with headquarters in Billund, Denmark, and main offices in Enfield, USA, London, England, Shanghai, China, and Singapore. Founded in 1932 by Ole Kirk Kristiansen, and based on the iconic LEGO® brick, it is one of the world's leading manufacturers of play materials for children.

Guided by the company spirit: "Only the best is good enough”, the company is committed to the development of children and aims to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow through creative play and learning. LEGO products are sold worldwide and can be virtually explored at www.LEGO.com.

LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Minifigure, the brick and knob configuration are trademarks of the LEGO Group. © 2015 the LEGO Group.

About Universal Partnerships & Licensing

Universal Partnerships & Licensing (UP&L) oversees NBCUniversal’s consumer product and digital licensing for Universal Pictures, NBC Television, Focus Features and Sprout Channel.  This dedicated division is also responsible for film, home entertainment and television promotions.  UP&L is part of NBCUniversal. NBCUniversal is one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks, and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.

About Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, a division of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment, Inc., is a premier worldwide publisher, developer, licensor and distributor of entertainment content for the interactive space across all platforms, including console, handheld, mobile and PC-based gaming for both internal and third party game titles.

LEGO JURASSIC WORLD © 2015 TT Games Ltd. Produced by TT Games under license from the LEGO Group. LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and the Knob configurations and the Minifigure are trademarks of the LEGO Group. © 2015 The LEGO Group. Jurassic World is a trademark and copyright of Universal Studios and Amblin Entertainment, Inc. Licensed by Universal Studios Licensing LLC. All Rights Reserved. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.  All rights reserved.

WB GAMES LOGO, WB SHIELD: ™ & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s15)

“PlayStation” and “PS3” are registered trademarks. “PS4” and “PS Vita” are trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Nintendo trademarks and copyrights are properties of Nintendo.

Best Buy's New Look Makes Last Minute Holiday Shopping Easy #ad #OriginalPhotos @BestBuy @BestBuyWOLF

Guess who got a makeover?! Don't worry they're still yellow and blue on the outside and easy to spot, but inside Best Buy is better than ever! We checked out the North Avenue Chicago store and the transformation is impressive.



Disclaimer:  ChiIL Mama is elated to be a Best Buy WOLF (Women's Leadership Forum) Blogger and we're happy to partner up and bring our readers tech news and reviews. The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

Check out our full photo recap in the slide show here and our favorite shots embedded at the end of this feature.


The North Avenue store is one of two locations in the country to feature Samsung’s Center Stage, a display that showcases Samsung appliances through a unique touch-screen interface. It's a super cool, giant screen that allows you to redesign your space or do a side by side comparison with life sized appliances. Fun fun. And we're lucky enough to be one of just TWO stores in the whole country to have one. So come check it out.



What we liked:

• Space... It's not just the final frontier. Best Buy's new remodel leaves shoppers plenty of space to roam without feeling crowded in by appliances or other people. And they've actually expanded their selection.

• Hands on displays. The days of no touch merch are over. One of the biggest benefits to buying locally vs on line, is using your 5 senses to truly try out and experience what you're thinking about buying. Like great museums, Best Buy encourages interaction with their displays! There are plenty of screens, headphones, samples and demos for you to play with and compare.

• Comfy viewing rooms. You can see large screen TVs and listen to sound systems in their natural habitat... a living room! Just like great zoos do away with bars and showcase lovely settings, Best Buy has done away with locked cages full of stacked TVs and tech toys that you see at big box retailers. Instead they've given shoppers loads of couches, recliners and smaller listening rooms where you can relax and pretend your home is as comfy, spacious and uncluttered as this. Can I just move in and live here? 

Maybe if I buy that sweet OLED TV I can feel like this at my house with snacks and drinks! 

So get off your computer and go already. Come on by and check it out. They have loads of hot toys off kids' wish lists like Super Smash Bros for 3DS and the newest Skylanders Trap Team.

The following Chicagoland stores have had big renovations and all 43 area store have been revitalized:

1. Store #301 Butterfield Road and #316 Downers Grove South – City of Downers Grove

2. Store #307 Joliet – City of Joliet

3. Store #310 Naperville – Cities of Aurora / Naperville

4. Store #323 North Avenue – Downtown Chicago

5. Store #318 Vernon Hills –  City of Vernon Hills

6. Store #308 Orland Park – City of Orland Park

7. Schaumburg #305 – City of Schaumburg

Best Buy is investing millions into the Chicago area renovating or updating the stores this year – highlighted by new Pacific Kitchen and Home departments added. These renovations all wrap up just in time for Holiday shopping and ensure the customer experience for everyone in the Chicago area is even better.

Best Buy Revamps North Avenue Store in Time for Holiday Shopping Season

Store revitalization project impacted all 43 Chicagoland stores

Best Buy has made a number of enhancements to its North Avenue store in time for the holiday shopping season. The company spent $20 million dollars over the summer remodeling all 43 Chicagoland stores. 

Chicago was one of the original markets Best Buy expanded to in the early 90s. Each store has been refreshed with new fixtures and finishes – from new paint and lighting to updated carpeting and bathrooms to make for a better customer shopping experience. 

New Shopping Areas 

New store features now provide customers with more choice in appliances, a best-in-class home theater shopping experience and new shopping areas from top brands. 

The store appliances departments have expanded to include a larger variety of both large and small appliances. 

The home theater sections have been remodeled to highlight new TV technology like 4K and UHD displays. New Samsung and Sony Experiences in the North Avenue store now showcase this technology. 

Community Commitment

Best Buy is strengthening its local community ties as the lead sponsor for the Chicago City of Learning, a partnership between the Chicago Public Schools, DePaul University, the MacArthur Foundation and Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s office. This initiative helps connect youth with out-of-school time and online learning opportunities to help develop technology skills for the future. Students earn digital badges when they participate in programs or complete online activities like learning how to code, mix digital music or create short films. 

More of our Photo Favorites:

Disclaimer:  Once again, ChiIL Mama is elated to be a Best Buy WOLF (Women's Leadership Forum) Blogger and we're happy to partner up and bring our readers tech news and reviews. The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

GREAT GAMER GIFTS: LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham Game and Season Pass Add-On Content Pack

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment released a new trailer this week, showcasing the exciting add-on content included in the DLC Season Pass for LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham. The Season Pass will include six add-on content packs that feature unique themed levels, stories and free play modes.  Players will gain access to more than 40 characters, vehicles, achievements and more.  The Season Pass is currently available for the PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS3, and PC for a great price of $14.99.  Each pack can be purchased separately at $2.99/pack. 

The Season Pass includes:

• The Dark Knight Add-On Pack (now available)
• Experience the heart-pounding chase scene from the iconic film complete with cool vehicles and explosive action. Play as the legendary Dark Knight and Commissioner Gordon, as well as the Joker and his goons as they chase down Harvey Dent’s police escort.  Bane and Catwoman from the third film are also playable.

• Man of Steel Add-On Pack (now available)
• Help Jor-El, his wife Lara and their robot Kelex send the infant Superman “Kal-el” into space towards the safety of Earth as Krypton falls into chaos. Find a way inside Jor-El’s home, fight General Zod’s invading forces and battle against Zod himself to save Superman.

• Batman 75th Add-On Pack (now available)
• Play as Joker and Harley, setting up a variety of celebration set pieces. Be the Batman and play as some of the most iconic faces of Batman through the years, including his first appearance in Detective Comics #27.

• Arrow Add-On Pack (coming soon)
• Become the Green Arrow, voiced by Stephen Amell, from the hit TV show Arrow on The CW. Explore Starling City and interact with new characters, including Diggle, Felicity Smoak, Huntress, Slade Wilson, Black Canary and more.

• Access to Future DLC Content
• Gain access to two additional game packs, featuring new playable characters, vehicles and levels. Details about the additional content will be revealed at a later date.

In LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham, the Caped Crusader joins forces with the super heroes of the DC Comics universe and blasts off to outer space to stop the evil Brainiac from destroying Earth. Using the power of the Lantern Rings, Brainiac shrinks worlds to add to his twisted collection of miniature cities from across the universe. Now the greatest Super Heroes and the most cunning Super Villains must unite and journey to different Lantern Worlds to collect the Lantern Rings and stop Brainiac before it’s too late.

LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham, the ultimate super hero game for the entire family, is now available on Xbox One, Xbox 360, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, PS Vita, Wii U, 3DS and PC.

Ultra HD TV is HERE at Best Buy @BestBuy #UHDatBestBuy

Why settle for a TV that's just OK when you can have one that's 4K!

Experience and learn about Ultra HD TV 

Every Saturday 11am-3pm

August 9 - November 1 with experts from 

LG, Samsung and Sony

Disclaimer:  ChiIL Mama is elated to be a member of Best Buy's WOLF (Women In Leadership) Bloggers. The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

Here at ChiIL Mama we love to watch movies and shows to relax and unwind. We also love to be on the cutting edge of new technology, so we are excited to partner up with Best Buy and share about the latest innovations, and 4K Ultra HD TVs are a BIG one.

Best Buy brings you the best 4K Ultra HD TVs. 

Make sure to visit a store near you to experience and learn about Ultra HD TV every Saturday 11am – 3pm and enter for a chance to win your own 55” Ultra HD TV (includes installation & Geek Squad Protection)!  Go to www.bestbuy/4kuhdevents for more information.

select stores will have exciting give-aways from Sony & LG including tickets and cord keepers while supplies last.  

Best Buy’s 4K Ultra HD TV’s will bring you:

Stunning Resolution:

Get four times the picture resolution of Full HD 1080p.  The increased pixel allows you to sit very close for a fully immersive experience.

Experiences That Feel Real:

Experiences that feel breathtakingly lifelike with amazing level of detail

Better Picture For Everything:

4K Ultra HD improves the quality of all current move & TV shows to gorgeous nearly 4k Ultra HD quality

Content is coming as Sony has introduced a 4K Ultra HD Media Player that comes loaded with free 4K content plus, you can download more than 200 4k films. Click here to find our more about Sony's new Ultra HD offerings.

Click here for Best Buy store locations hosting Ultra HD s and more about 

Disclaimer:  Once again, ChiIL Mama is elated to be a member of Best Buy's WOLF (Women In Leadership) Bloggers. The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

FREE MOSHLING RESCUE LAUNCHES ON ANDROID THIS WEEK #games #tech

Here at ChiIL Mama, we're HUGE fans of Moshi Monsters, Moshlings and Mind Candy's rockin' related games and web site. My kids have been members for years and adore the collectibles. So we were super stoked to hear they're expanding with more fun, new games. As an Android family, we're excited to FINALLY be able to add Moshling Rescue to our phone games. It's a FREE download and already out on Facebook and iOS, too!

Disclosure: We're elated to be working with Mind Candy to promote their new release and we've been compensated with some freebies.  As always, all opinions are our own.

This week, Mind Candy is bringing their iconic Moshi Monsters to Android devices with Moshling Rescue. Following the successful launch on Facebook and iOS last month, the game already has over 1 million players around the world, is consistently rated 5 stars in the App Store and has been featured in over 36 countries as one of Apple's 'Best New Games.'

Building on the Puzzle Game's Successful iOS Launch, Mind Candy Expands

Mobile Presence Worldwide with Moshling Rescue's Debut on Android Devices

Mind Candy, the leading family entertainment company behind the renowned Moshi Monsters franchise, has made its popular Match-3 game Moshling Rescue available on Android devices. After a successful launch on Facebook and iOS last month, Moshling Rescue has been featured in over 36 countries as one of Apple's 'Best New Games' and has consistently been rated 5 stars in the App Store.

As the first Mind Candy game targeted to the moms and dads of the company's millions of young fans, Moshling Rescue combines a variety of unique gameplay modes, providing hours of enjoyment for an older audience. With over 1 million players around the world, the game features fun yet challenging gameplay, as players must match the gummies to rescue the Moshlings and explore hundreds of adventure-packed levels. When the going gets tough, players can purchase boosts and extra lives to enhance their entertainment.

Moshling Rescue is unique in game functionality, with six game modes:

·       Home mode - For the first time in a game of this genre, players must collect specific gummies to move the Moshling across a game-style track to reach home.

·       Boss mode - Big Bad Bill tries his best to prevent players from reaching their goal.

·       Dig mode - Explode and select gummies to dig further down the screen to complete the level.

·       Drop mode - Rescue the Moshlings by dropping them down through a big stack of gummies.

·       Clear mode - Everything is covered in gloop! Match over it to clean it all away.

·       Treasure mode - Unlock treasure and win jellybeans by merging sacks, crates & chests together.

Android users can now also connect their mobile or tablet editions of Moshling Rescue with their Facebook accounts to pick up and play where they left off for even more fun. Players will also receive an extra life across both platforms by connecting to their Facebook accounts.

Commenting on the Android launch, President of Mind Candy Divinia Knowles said, "We're very excited that Android users will now be able to enjoy this next generation of Match-3 gaming alongside iOS and Facebook users. We are continuing to expand the Mind Candy portfolio from kids' entertainment to a broader family entertainment company and have a number of exciting new projects in the pipeline that we can't wait to share with audiences of all ages."

What sets Moshling Rescue apart from other games of this genre is the deep character driven narrative, which is synonymous with all Mind Candy games. There is a unique collection mechanic where players earn a Moshling after completing certain levels, with rewards earned for completing a full set of characters that can then be viewed at any time in The Tree House.

Moshling Rescue was developed in house by Mind Candy and can be downloaded for free on the Android, iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. In the coming months, Mind Candy will offer content updates and enhancements to the already feature-rich game.

About Mind Candy

Mind Candy, creator of the successful Moshi Monsters franchise, is a global entertainment company based in the UK. Internet entrepreneur, Michael Acton Smith, formed the company in 2004. Multiple mobile projects are currently in development, to further the company's vision to create the future of family entertainment for this new digital generation. For more information visit www.MindCandy.com

About Moshi Monsters

Moshi Monsters, the BAFTA Award winning global kids brand, started life as an online world of adoptable pet monsters for boys and girls aged 6-12years.  The game soon became a global phenomenon, where kids could take the daily puzzle challenge to earn 'Rox' (virtual currency), play games, personalise their room, show off their artwork, read stories and communicate with friends in a safe environment. Following its huge online success, Moshi Monsters has expanded into the real world with physical products including best-selling toys; the number one selling kids magazine in the UK; a best-selling DS video game, a top five music album, a theatrical movie, books, and trading cards. Moshi Monsters has now moved into the mobile and tablet space with a range of apps available for download on iOS and Android devices. For more information visit www.MoshiMonsters.com or www.mindcandy.com/products.

Disclosure: Once again, we're elated to be working with Mind Candy to promote their new release and we've been compensated with some freebies.  As always, all opinions are our own.

March Madness Multitasking With Best Buy #Catch It All #Ad

Disclaimer:  ChiIL Mama is elated to be a Best Buy WOLF (Women's Leadership Forum) Blogger. I have been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received a product/service at a reduced price or for free in exchange for sharing this information with our readers.  All opinions are my own.

We got out of town for a quick family vacation last weekend. Of course we still managed to bring 2 laptops, a DSLR camera, a DS, a 3DS, an ipod, an Android pad, and 3 Samsung smartphones. But it was GREAT to be away from my Macbook Pro more than usual. It's like a permanent extension of my hands most days, and my favorite way to stay connected. Sure, I use my smartphone a LOT, but my laptop is ideal for blogging, freelance writing, photo & video editing, managing e-mails and social media posting.  So, it's by far my tool of choice for multitasking madness in March and beyond.

It was amusing to me to see the NCAA March Madness in full swing everywhere we went.  Even at The Eagle Ridge Spa & Resort pool... basketball addicts were absorbed in the games, while the kids (& hockey dad) shot baskets from the water. 



How do YOU stay connected... HDTV, Laptop, Tablet, Cellphone... all of the above?!

Check out Best Buy here, for sweet tips on using “multiple screens” to stay current on the tournament and brackets and sweet March Madness promotions and offers focused on the devices to enjoy “multi-screen” madness on.

One screen is not enough.

Speaking of one screen... last Friday this Blackhawks lovin' family was 3 hours away from home road trippin' to our weekend away, when the game was just about to start. We spotted a likely sports bar/barn/fish fry joint and stopped for dinner.  There was Blackhawks neon in the windows and jerseys on the walls, but all 10 large screens in the place were playing... you guessed it.  COLLEGE BASKETBALL.  We asked if they could switch one little ol' large screen to the Blackhawks game and our waitress tried to oblige, but it was not to be.  All the TVs were chained in sync and the channel could not be changed.  Bah!  

At the risk of basketball fanatics playing bombardment with my head.. I must confess, we used all our multiple screens trying to AVOID March Madness and track the hockey game! Ah well. To each his own. Follow your passion. And whether you're tracking tournaments and brackets or hiding in another room watching movies on your laptop... When it comes to screens, more is better. And Best Buy's got your back.

Best Buy helps keep you connected to the excitement with the devices and connectivity that make it possible.  Brought to life by the brand promise of the latest devices and services, all in one place. 

Disclaimer:  Once again, ChiIL Mama is elated to be a Best Buy WOLF (Women's Leadership Forum) Blogger. I have been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received a product/service at a reduced price or for free in exchange for sharing this information with our readers.  All opinions are my own.

Best Buy Mobile Specialty Stores Make Cell Phone Trade Ins Easy and Profitable #tech #BestBuy #WOLF

Buh bye Galaxy S... hello S4 and an $80 Best Buy Gift Card

ChiIL out with a new cell phone this summer and gift cards for your trade ins at Best Buy!   We just hit our upgrade eligibility on our 3 family cell phones and eagerly began our search for our next new phones.  Best Buy is carrying cell phones now, and since they're just blocks away and have a great reputation, they were high on our list.  So, we were elated to be contacted by Best Buy through their WOLF (Women's Leadership Forum) Blog program for a sponsored post about Best Buy Mobile Specialty Stores.   

Thanks to Best Buy, we have been compensated for sharing this information with you in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card.

I bought my Macbook Pro at Best Buy, camera lenses, a 3DS, numerous tech gadgets and last minute computer and printer supplies.   They're also our neighborhood go to place for great deals on Wii and DS games, and tech toys. So, it makes sense to trust them with our cell search.

I've actually been back 4 times and hit the Mobile Specialty Store sections at 2 different Best Buys during these past few weeks.    Wait times were minimal, the staff was knowledgable and helpful, and the whole experience was pretty painless.   The few times I stumped the staff with a question they were happy to look the info up or check with the boss.   Since they're not on commission, there's no high pressure up selling, just good old fashioned, high tech customer service.

My husband and I both ultimately decided on the brand new release Galaxy S4 for me and a Galaxy S3 for him.  My 12 year old son is still deciding.   He has an older iPhone he loves and doesn't want to part with it.

Best Buy is a bit more complicated when upgrading a T-Mobile plan which we have.   You can do it, but the phones have to be ordered on line, not in store.   However the store staff are still happy to change over all your contacts and get your phone up and ready to go if you bring it in.   If you happen to be with any of the other major providers (AT&T, Verizon, or Sprint) you can purchase right there in the store!

Trade In/Cash In:

**Click here to find out what your phone is worth**

If you're family is anything like ours, you have a drawer full of old cell phones.   We checked out Best Buy on line and in person to see what our stash of phones is worth.   Unfortunately our 2 Blackberry Pearls are worth zero, but our Son's older iPhone is worth $40 and our two Galaxy S phones are $80 each.   Kaching!    Value will vary based on condition of the phones, and whether you bring all the accessories in with the phone.

Pros:  Best Buy will give you credit toward a new phone or a gift card outrightly, in exchange for your old cell phones!   It's easy, there's no purchase necessary, and you can trade in multiple phones.

Cons:  If you're a Chicago dweller like us, there's a city ordinance aimed at pawn shops that prohibits cash/gift cards for electronics trade ins.   Soooooo, if you want to get in on the trade in action you have to trek outside the city limits. The good news is, there are plenty of Best Buys in the near suburbs ringing the city.

Trade in your old phone, get up to $200* back at Best Buy Mobile specialty stores. Find a store near you.

 “I had no idea they did this EVERYDAY”

The last time we bought new smart phones two years ago, we counted down the days till the Galaxy S release then went to our neighborhood T-Mobile Store.   When we had a technical problem with one of them a few months later we went back to the store only to find it was out of business!   If you purchase at Best Buy you can count on them being there for you.   And you don't have to wait for a trade in special.   Best Buy takes old cell phones and turns them into gift cards every day.

• Need to get a new mobile phone but dreading the experience of shopping for one? Explore Best Buy Mobile specialty stores – these shops are found locally in malls or in your neighborhood shopping centers, and are focused on mobile devices and accessories. Shop for the latest smartphones and tablets from Verizon, AT&T and Sprint, from all the top brands, along with stylish accessories to suit your lifestyle. 

• The staff is highly trained, yet non-commissioned, so they can help determine the right phone for you, as well as compare plans across the carriers. They can set up and activate your new phone, transfer your contacts and data and set you up with the complimentary Walk Out Working™ program.   Click here to find a Best Buy Mobile specialty store near you.

Click here for a sweet USA today write up on Best Buy's Trade-in Program

Disclaimer:  The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.   All opinions are our own.

Photon Q, Cru & Little Tech Girl #flirtywithqwerty #tech #review

Moms have plenty to wine about.   (Yes...that's wine not whine).   When you're responsible for others' daily food, clothing, education, culture and transportation needs, it's necessary to take some time for yourself.   That's why I was especially happy to be invited out to Cru Wine Bar last Thursday with Little Tech Girl, blogger bigwigs, media mavens, and Motorola.



The food and wines were superb, and the company was even tastier.
After our informative, international wine tasting and socializing, I felt rejuvenated.  No one appreciates a night out like a busy mom!   It was a luxury to not have to take care of anyone else for a precious few hours.

I'd never been to Cru before, but I'm sure this won't be my last visit.   Next to Chicago's amazing theatre and music scenes, we relish urban living for the restaurants.   One could eat out every day and not make a dent in Chicago's world class cuisine scene.   An evening at Cru felt like an exotic vacation without leaving my home town.



Cru has a cozy, unpretentious atmosphere and friendly, helpful staff.   When I was a bit overwhelmed by their impressive 200+ wines selection, I was able to tell the bartender I prefer dry...red and he steered me in a fabulous direction.   We're all about supporting eco-friendly, sustainable, small family enterprises and local produce, and so is Cru.



Here's what was on the menu for our tasting:



Whites

Pinot Noir/Chardonnay, Argyle, Willamette, Oregon
Assyrtiko, Domaine Mercouri, Peloponnese, Greece
Sauvignon, Movia, BRDA, Slovenia




Reds

Grenache/Syrah, Turner Pageot, Languedoc, France
Nerello Mascalese, Passopisciaro, Sicily, Italy
Xinomavro, Karydas, Naoussa, Greece




Here's the restaurant's official description:

Welcome to Cru Cafe & Wine Bar

Nestled in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood, Cru Café & Wine Bar balances its elegant décor with a casual ambiance.

Cozy up to a fireplace in winter or enjoy al fresco dining in warmer months as you choose from one of over 200 bottles of wine, selections by the glass and an inspiring list of flights and cocktails.


We proudly support small producers and sustainable farming. every wine on the menu has a story and a soul. Whether it’s a grower champagne, small family owned domaines, winemakers from multiple generations or just passionate winemakers, they all share a common philosophy about farming and wine making. All of the wines were carefully chosen for both their personality and the pure expression of where they’re from. We strive to find the best examples of all wines globally and hope you enjoy the story they tell.

Our menu is seasonal and based on traditional flavor combinations. we use both classic and modern techniques to prepare dishes that are delicious, fun and interesting. We make as much as we can in house which ensures that our food is fresh, healthy and of the utmost quality. This will include extensive stock and sauce making, butchering and baking.



Motorola's New Photon Q

We were quite enamored with the latest smart phone from Motorola as well.   The Photon Q torpedos my Galaxy S right out of the Milky Way!   This bad boy is more like a personal secretary...letting certain calls through and screening others according to your settings.   Have your people call my people indeed!

There's a sleep setting the phone will suggest to you, and a fast, 5 line, real keyboard that real people with long nails or man sized fingertips can manipulate with ease!   It slides under the screen without adding much bulk or weight.   

Paparazzi take note.  This is the largest screen on a 4G and the camera and video is fabulous.   It's also eco-friendly for a smart phone.   We're dying to try one out for more than a one night stand.   Right now they're exclusively available with Sprint and we've been with T-Mobile for years.   Sigh.

Here's the scoop off Motorola's site:

Who will love it: Multi-taskers looking for an ideal work-life balancer with powerful new ways to communicate and share.

Why it rocks: It's a green machine. Platinum certified, this phone meets the highest level of environmental performance established by UL Environment. You'll shoot off texts and emails faster than ever with the slide-out QWERTY keyboard and LED edge-lighting so you can type in the dark. Customized off your selections, the unique SMARTACTIONS™ app adjusts your phone settings to your needs so you can automate everyday tasks and save battery power.

Sprint ID: The latest Android™ innovation from Sprint, allows you to instantly personalize your phone to complement your needs and interests.

Android Market™: Create your own arsenal of fun and productivity by selecting from more than 100,000 apps. Learn more

Sprint Worldwide Service: Before you travel, contact Sprint to enable Sprint Worldwide international services. Call 1-888-226-7212, option 2. For a complete list of countries and Sprint Worldwide coverage areas, visit sprint.com/sww.

Little Tech Girl....thinkin' about giving her last smart phone THE BOOT, for the stylin' new Photon Q!