DEATH ON THE NILE VIDEO GAME

I've immersed myself in a murder mystery for some Halloween fun playing Agatha Christie -- Death on the Nile on my Nintendo Switch. I've been a fan a Agatha Christie's whodunit novels since reading Ten Little Indians for a middle school English assignments. I've read her books, watched movies based on them and now for the first time am playing a video game that lets you take on the role of the detective attempting to solve an Agatha Christie murder mystery. 

In Agatha Christie -- Death on the Nile, a peaceful cruise turns into a nightmare when a murder shatters the tranquility of the voyage. Fortunately, renowned detective Hercule Poirot is on board. At the same time, a parallel investigation led by private detective Jane Royce takes players from London to Mallorca, New York, and finally to Egypt. The two storylines converge in Abu Simbel, where this dynamic investigative duo must solve a tangled case full of twists and intrigue.

This video game isn't just walking through the storyline of the Agatha Christie novel of the same name though; it has a 1970's era vibe to it adding a fresh perspective to the story and the video game has added new layers, secrets and unexpected turns to add new surprises for players to overcome and be surprised by. If you enjoy murder mystery stories this video game is a fun way to jump into the pages of an Agatha Christie novel to become a participant in the whodunit.

Here are some of the key features that stand out in the game:

Two Playable Protagonists - Step into the shoes of both Hercule Poirot and Jane Royce, each offering unique gameplay perspectives and interconnected storylines leading to a thrilling finale.

A Fresh Setting - Immerse yourself in a reimagined 1970s backdrop—an era of social transformation marked by the rise of feminism, civil rights movements, and cultural liberation. From discotheques and flared trousers to vibrant characters, the game brings a colorful, stylish flair to the classic mystery.

Expanded Storyline - Discover an entirely new investigation that continues beyond the events of the original novel—filled with surprises for longtime Christie fans and newcomers alike.

Diverse Locations - Explore a variety of stunning settings—from the exotic cruise on the Nile bustling streets of Mallorca, London, and Cairo.

Enhanced Mindmap System - Collect clues, make connections, and piece together the mystery using a dynamic mindmap that helps you deduce and drive the investigation forward.

Confrontation System - Put the pressure on suspects by leveraging the evidence you've gathered, uncover lies, reveal motives, and expose the truth.

Character Profiles - Build detailed profiles of suspects and witnesses through dialogue, observation, and investigation to deepen your understanding of each character and their secrets.

Agatha Christie -- Death on the Nile is crafted by French video game publisher Microids. Since 1985, Microids has had a focus on adventure games and titles aimed at "core gamers." They partnered with Agatha Christie Limited, led by Christie's great-grandson James Prichard, to officially license the Death on the Nile video game instead of doing a knock off of the material demonstrating Microids dedication to thoroughness and quality. Other immersive games available from the publisher include Amerzone: The Explorer's Legacy, Empire of the Ants, and Flint: Treasure of Oblivion. 

The video game is available as a digital download online from My Nintendo Store or in physical format from Amazon. There is also available on Amazon a Limited Edition Pack that includes the video game, a 48-page art book, a cruise ticket inspired bookmark and a digital download of the game's music soundtrack. If you don't play video games on Switch like me, Agatha Christie -- Death on the Nile is also available on Playstation, PC and XBox. 

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THE WEST WING COMPLETE SERIES NOW ON BLURAY

Warner Bros. Discovery Home Entertainment will be releasing The West Wing: The Complete Series for the first time ever on Blu-ray, in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the critically acclaimed series. Get ready to binge all 156 episodes from NBC/WBTV’s Emmy® Award-winning original series, along with hours of special features including over 20 commentaries, behind the scenes featurettes, unaired scenes, gag reels and more. 

The brilliant political drama, following an extraordinarily intimate look at an American President and the inner workings of the White House, will be available to own on Blu-ray on October 1. Pre-order your copy today. 

Created by Aaron Sorkin who executive produced with Thomas Schlamme and John Wells, The West Wing stars Rob Lowe , Dulé Hill, Allison Janney, Janel Moloney, Richard Schiff, John Spencer, Bradley Whitford, and Martin Sheen. The West Wing, which originally aired on NBC from 1999 to 2006, garnered widespread acclaim with three Golden Globe Awards, two Peabody Awards, and 26 Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Drama Series for four consecutive seasons (2000-2003). This year, the groundbreaking series celebrates its 25th anniversary. 

The West Wing: The Complete Series includes all 156 episodes from all seven seasons on 28 discs, plus over 20 commentaries, behind the scenes featurettes, unaired scenes, gag reels and more.

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HALLOWEEN SEASON STARTS WITH BEETLEJUICE FUN

As summer comes to a close with the Labor Day weekend, the Halloween season starts up with the theatrical release of the horror/comedy flick BEETLE JUICE BEETLE JUICE which opens September 6, 2024. Rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPA Movie Rating) for violent content, macabre and bloody images, strong language, some suggestive material and brief drug use, Michael Keeton and Winona Ryder return in this sequel to the 1988's Beetlejuice.

Get into the spirit of the movie with the OP Games Beetlejuice edition of OUIJA. Unleash the Netherworld's secrets with Ouija: Beetlejuice. Summon the spirits by saying "Beetlejuice" three times and get answers to all of your burning questions! With a gothic Beetlejuice-themed design, this vintage-inspired Ouija board offers a thrilling experience, illuminating the unknown with haunting symbols and mysterious spirits. 2 to 4 players / Ages 8+ / 30+ Minutes Play Time.

In BEETLEJUICE, BEETLEJUICE, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River after an unexpected family tragedy. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia's life soon gets turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter discovers a mysterious portal to the afterlife. When someone says Beetlejuice's name three times, the mischievous demon gleefully returns to unleash his very own brand of mayhem.

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TOP TIPS FOR FEALING STRONG IN YOUR WORKOUTS

Working out comes with many different challenges, from finding the time in which to do it, to having enough energy and motivation to push through the tough times. Something that can greatly improve the chances of having a good workout session is how strong you feel. Here are several top tips on how to feel stronger in your workouts. 

Take regular breaks for long enough 

When you are working out it is common to reach a point where your body and mind feel like they cannot do any more. A trick to feeling stronger in your workouts is to ensure that you take regular breaks during and after your reps and sets. For example, after you have just completed a set of reps, make sure to stop for a significant period of time (generally 30-60 seconds) to allow your muscles to recover adequately. If you don’t then fatigue will set in a lot quicker, and as a result, you will be unable to work out for as long as you had hoped. Similarly, you should be taking a minute or two between full sets to allow your body to recover enough before you begin your next set. 

Don’t rush your progress 

Many people go to the gym, or workout to better themselves, and as such continually push to be faster, or lift heavier. However, if you want to feel strong during your workouts you should make sure that you do not rush your progress. Rushing your progress could mean that you not only risk injuring yourself but could also end up feeling weaker than you are due to doing too much, too fast. Make sure that you are working out comfortably before you set out your next achievable goal, because if you are already struggling with what you are doing, setting another benchmark to reach may cause you to become disheartened. 

Consider your diet 

Your diet will have a huge impact on how well, or poorly you perform during your workouts. If you have a diet that is primarily based around fatty, sugary, or over-processed foods, then it is likely your body will feel sluggish and weak a lot of the time. If you can research what kind of food your body needs to help fuel you on your specific workout goals, and then implement these food types into your lifestyle, you are likely to find that you are feeling much stronger, and more able-bodied than before. Once you have a solid baseline diet you can also consider introducing certain supplements to help push your body, performance, and strength to the next level. Supplements such as creatine, and protein powders can be found at places like AthleticStore. 

Focus on your form 

Regardless of what you are doing, whether it is running, swimming, or lifting weights, you should focus on your form rather than the weight or time in which you are trying to increase. Exercising with proper form will help you to avoid injury, but it will also eventually allow you to perform much better, and feel stronger while doing it. So, before you load up your plates, or set a time to beat, make sure that your form is on point first. 

If you can implement these top tips into your workout routines and lifestyle, then you should hopefully see, and feel a difference in how strong you feel.

NAVIGATING LIFE AS A WIDOWER: CARING FOR YOURSELF AND YOUR CHILDREN

Losing a spouse is one of life's most difficult experiences, but it can be especially challenging when children are involved. For widowers, the road ahead can be long and filled with many obstacles. However, it's important to remember that you don't have to go through it alone. There is help available to support you and your children through this difficult time. 

One of the first steps a widower can take is to reach out to friends, family, and support groups. Talking with others who have been through a similar experience can provide comfort and help you feel less isolated. Many communities have support groups specifically for widows and widowers, and these can be a great place to connect with others and receive emotional support, a good example is https://embracegrace.com/single-fathers-support-group. 

Another important source of support for widowers is counseling. Whether you're dealing with grief, depression, or stress, counseling can provide you with the tools you need to cope with your loss and find ways to move forward. You can also seek support for your children through counseling, as they may be struggling with the loss of their parents and need help processing their feelings. 

It's also important to take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally during this time. Exercise, a balanced diet, and getting enough rest can help you maintain your physical and mental health. Pursuing hobbies and interests that you enjoy can also be a great way to relieve stress and find joy in your life. 

In addition to personal support, there are also various organizations that offer assistance to widows and widowers. These organizations may offer financial support, resources for single-parent families, and other services to help you and your children. 

Fostering Resilience in Children After the Loss of a Parent 

As a widower, one of your biggest responsibilities is ensuring your children have the support and resources they need to navigate life after the loss of a parent. This can be a difficult and emotional journey, but it's important to remember that with the right tools and support, children can become resilient and thrive in the face of adversity. 

One of the most important things you can do is to provide a stable and consistent environment for your children. This includes maintaining their daily routine, providing a safe and secure home, and ensuring they have access to the resources they need for their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. 

Another important aspect of helping your children cope with loss is to be open and honest with them about what has happened. Children often have a lot of questions after the loss of a parent, and it's important to answer them in a way that is both honest and age-appropriate. Encourage your children to express their feelings and provide a safe and supportive space for them to do so. 

It's also important to help your children find healthy ways to cope with their loss. This can include activities such as writing, art, sports, or other hobbies. Encouraging your children to be physically active can also help boost their mood and relieve stress. 

Another important way to foster resilience in your children is by helping them form strong relationships with supportive adults. This can include family members, teachers, coaches, or friends. Having a network of supportive adults can help your children feel valued and loved, and provide them with the emotional support they need during this difficult time. 

Widower Self-Care: Taking Care of Yourself While Raising Children 

As a widower, it's important to remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your children. When you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or simply depleted, it can be difficult to be the supportive and nurturing parent your children need. That's why self-care is so important. 

One of the most important aspects of self-care is to make time for yourself. This might mean taking a long walk, reading a book, or simply taking a nap. It's important to do things that make you feel relaxed and refreshed, and to prioritize your own needs. 

Another important aspect of self-care is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and engaging in regular physical activity. Exercise has been shown to boost mood and relieve stress, and can help you maintain your physical and mental health even during difficult times. 

It's also important to seek support from others when you need it. Whether it's talking to a friend, family member, or therapist, it's important to have a network of people you can turn to for support and encouragement. Joining a support group for widowers can also be a great way to connect with others and receive emotional support. 

Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help from others. Whether it's help with household chores, transportation, or simply someone to talk to, it's okay to reach out and ask for what you need. Remember, you're not alone in this journey and there are people who care about you and want to help. 

In conclusion, as a widower, you don't have to go through the experience of raising your children alone. By reaching out to friends, family, support groups, and organizations, you can find the help and support you need to navigate life with your children. Take care of yourself, don't be afraid to ask for help, and remember, there is a community of people who are here for you.

ESSENTIAL ITEMS EVERY GAMER NEEDS

Even if you are pretty new to gaming, you have probably already discovered that it is a fantastic way to spend your spare time. Being able to forget about the world and stay focused on your game provides the ultimate escapism, which is what many people need after a stressful day or when going through a difficult time. While playing video games is an excellent way to unwind, it can be frustrating if you do not have all the necessary items to make the most of your playing experience. 

Having the right gaming equipment can make a significant difference to your gameplay and will undoubtedly impact your comfort levels. If you are keen to make sure you get the best possible gaming experience every time you play, take a look at the essential items that every gamer needs: 

The Right Server 

Spending time playing your favorite games is great, but playing them in a way that perfectly matches your preferences is even better. To ensure that you get to play your games in the way that best suits your choice of gameplay, you need to select the correct server. For Minecraft players, there is a wide choice of servers out there to choose from. Players can choose to use a server designed for their chosen way to play Minecraft, such as minecraft survival servers for those that prefer survivor mode and minecraft creative servers for players that use creative mode. These servers enable players to get more from their gameplay and access features and ways to play that are not available in the original version of the game. So, for gamers that are serious about their gameplay, choosing the right server can make a big difference to their gaming experience and is an essential consideration. 

A Comfortable Place to Sit 

If you plan to play video games for any more than short bursts of time, you will definitely need to consider your seating arrangements. Trying to play your favorite game while hunched over and perched on the edge of an armchair may be OK for a few minutes, but doing this for a long period of time is soon going to take its toll on your back. To ensure that you are sitting comfortably, you need to find a chair that enables you to support your posture and avoid putting too much strain on your back. Choosing to use a gaming chair or even an ergonomically-designed office chair may help you to feel more comfortable when playing your favorite games while also allowing you to sit in a more posture-friendly position that eases pressure on your back. 

The Correct Monitor Setup 

Finally, choosing the correct monitor setup for your gaming style is essential. If your monitor is too small, it can be challenging to see the level of detail needed to get the most from your gaming experience. So, making sure that your screen is large enough for you to enjoy the game to the full is a crucial consideration.

SIMPLE THINGS YOU CAN DO EVERY DAY TO ENCOURAGE HEALTHY LIVING

Everyone knows that they should be living a healthy lifestyle, but it can be tough to make the time for it. Between work, family, and social obligations, there never seem to be enough hours in the day to get everything done. But did you know there are simple things you can do daily to encourage healthy living? Here are a few ideas:

Aim For A Good Night Of Sleep 

Did you know that getting a good night's sleep is one of the best things you can do for your health? Not only does it help to restore and rejuvenate your body, but it can also help to improve your mood, increase your productivity, and boost your immune system. Here are just a few of the many health benefits of getting a good night's sleep: 

•  Sleep helps to regulate your hormones, which in turn helps to control your appetite and weight.
•  Sleep deprivation has been linked to an increased risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. 
• Too little sleep can also lead to decreased cognitive function and memory loss. 
• Getting enough sleep is essential for overall mental health and well-being.

If you're not getting enough sleep, you can do a few things to encourage healthy sleeping habits. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your sleep:

• Make sure your bedroom is dark and cool. 
• Avoid using electronic devices in bed. 
• Establish a regular sleep schedule. 
• Avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol before bedtime. 
• Practice relaxation methods before bedtime.

Eat A Healthy Diet 

Eating a healthy diet is one of the simplest and most effective things you can do to encourage healthy living. Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods helps keep your body working properly, prevents disease, and ensures that you get the most out of the food you eat. 

There are many different ways to eat a healthy diet, but one of the simplest is to focus on eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are packed with nutrients that are essential for good health, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. In addition, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes. 

In addition to eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, another key part of a healthy diet is to limit your intake of unhealthy fats, sugars, and salt. Unhealthy fats, sugars, and salt can contribute to weight gain, high blood pressure, and other health problems. Limiting your intake of these unhealthy substances can help you maintain a healthy weight, improve your overall health and reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases. Eating a healthy diet is an essential part of living a healthy lifestyle. 

Eating healthy foods and limiting your intake of unhealthy substances can help you enjoy a long and healthy life.

Exercise Regularly 

Regular exercise is another essential part of living a healthy lifestyle. Exercise helps to keep your heart healthy, strengthen your bones and muscles, improve your mental health and boost your immune system. Regular exercise can also help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases and improve your overall well-being. 

There are many different ways to get regular exercise, but one of the easiest is to make sure that you are active for at least 30 minutes each day. This could involve going for a brisk walk, playing with your kids at the park, or taking an exercise class at the gym. Whatever form of exercise you choose, making it a part of your daily routine is the key to reaping the many benefits of regular exercise. So, get up and get moving today! Your body will thank you for it.

Limit Your Alcohol Intake 

Drinking alcohol is a common part of many people's lives, but it is important to drink in moderation. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, and other health problems. It can also increase your risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer. 

If you drink alcohol, it is essential to limit your intake. For healthy adults, moderate drinking is defined as up to two drinks per day for men and up to one drink per day for women. If you are pregnant or have certain medical conditions, you should avoid alcohol altogether. Making an effort to drink in moderation can help you enjoy the many benefits of alcohol without putting your health at risk. 

If you find that you have a drinking problem and you are struggling to quit, there are some things that you can do to get help. Many resources are available to help you overcome your addiction and live a healthy life. You can also try alcohol rehab to get the help you need to quit.

Avoid Tobacco 

Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of death in the world and is a significant contributor to many chronic diseases. Smoking cigarettes increases the risk of developing lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. Chewing tobacco is bad for your overall oral health and also increases your risk of developing oral cancer. 

Avoiding tobacco is one of the best things you can do for your health. If you currently smoke cigarettes, quitting is the most critical thing you can do for your health. Many resources are available to help you quit smoking, including counseling, medication, and support groups. Making the decision to quit smoking is a vital step toward living a healthier life. It is a decision that will change your life, and you will not regret it. 

There are many things that you can do to live a healthy lifestyle. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco, and limiting your alcohol intake are all necessary steps toward achieving better health. Living a healthier life can improve your overall sense of well-being and help you enjoy a long and healthy life.

A STRANGE JOURNEY THROUGH MARVEL'S MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS

Thank you Marvel Studios for providing AGEEKDADDY.COM with a complimentary digital code for DOCTOR STRANGE AND THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS

Marvel Studios DOCTOR STRANGE AND THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS is an odd movie because I hated the story yet still found myself very entertained by this superhero flick. It is one of those films that is great to just grab a bucket movie theater style popcorn, kick your feet back and enjoy the show escaping from reality for a few hours. Full of great action scenes that will awe casual movie goers and easter eggs that diehard comic book geeks are sure to appreciate, this film provides a fun jaunt around various dimensions of the Marvel Cinematic Universe that will excite a variety of audiences.

Not only does this movie explore the endless multiverse of storytelling possibilities with Marvel comic book inspired characters and settings, but viewers also journey into the dark depths of a person spiraling out of control into madness. And it is not the character you are expecting! Doctor Strange conjures up not just physical travel through an intriguing multitude of alternate dimensions but also incorporates psychological elements to elevate the energy level and tension of the film. 

Whether you haven't seen DOCTOR STRANGE AND THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS at a theater or want to watch it again to try and catch details missed watching it before, now the movie is available to watch anytime and anywhere you want to with its home entertainment release so you can join in the adventure either on a television from your living room couch or on your mobile device from a hammock in the middle of nowhere. DOCTOR STRANGE AND THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS is now available on digital via moviesanywhere.com and streaming on Disney+. It is also coming to 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray on July 26th. 

Bonus features of the home entertainment release of DOCTOR STRANGE AND THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS include featurettes, a gag reel and deleted scenes:

Featurettes 

• Method to the Madness - Join various crew members and Marvel employees in interviews as they discuss their love of Sam Raimi and all the details of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness that make it quintessentially Raimi.
• Introducing America Chavez - In this short and fun profile piece, learn about America’s humble beginnings in the comics. Meet Xochitl Gomez and discuss the complications her character's unique power presents for the future of the MCU.
• Constructing the Multiverse - Writing a feature film for Marvel is no easy task. In this playful yet informative featurette, dive into the challenges that writer Michael Waldron faced in creating the twisting and turning story of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

Gag Reel - Take a look at some of the fun outtakes on set with the cast and crew of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

Deleted Scenes 

• A Great Team - A journalist questions Doctor Strange's integrity. 
• Pizza Poppa - Bruce is relieved when Doctor Strange's spell ends.
• It's Not Permanent - Bruce tries to accuse Doctor Strange of being an imposter

DOCTOR STRANGE AND THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association of America. Written by Michael Waldron with music by Danny Elfman, the movie has a runtime of 126 minutes. For more information check out @DrStrange on Twitter; and if you are in the Twitterverse give us a follow at @Geekdad248!

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NOBLE COLLECTION ADDS MINECRAFT LICENSE TO ITS PORTFOLIO

From BendyFigs action figures to replica props from the Harry Potter movies, there is a fantastic portfolio of products available from The Noble Collection to be geeked about. I've enjoyed an out of this world game night playing Star Trek Tridimensional Chess, had a Bowtruckle sneak into work with me, and surprised my daughter with a magical present courtesy of The Noble Collection. Now they've added a new brand to the collection that is sure to delight my video game fanatic son ... MINECRAFT!

The Noble Collection will explore the world of Minecraft with a unique and intricate line of collectibles including a signature Chess Set and real-world prop replicas that will bring Minecraft to life as never seen before. The new collection will be available for pre-order Holiday 2022, with new products rolling out through 2023 and beyond.

The Noble Collection, known for its high quality collectibles featuring intricate details and superior sculpts, will bring this expertise into the Minecraft collection. Products in the line will showcase a real world interpretation through realistic styling cues, for a new and immersive Minecraft experience. The elevated collector-grade products will allow the Minecraft community to celebrate the world of Minecraft on a new level.

See what is new with The Noble Collection on their Instagram feed. While you are doing that make sure to be following @Geekdad248 on Instagram too. Enjoying the geeky side of life from the 248 here in Metro Detroit!

YESTERDAY

A GEEK DADDY RECEIVED THE FEATURED PRODUCT FOR FREE TO REVIEW

What if you woke up one morning to find that overnight the whole world had forgotten something you cherish? Would you utilize that knowledge to enrich yourself with fame and riches or would that be immoral? That is the dilemma Jack Malik encounters in the theatrically-released movie YESTERDAY which is now available on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD and Digital to add to your home entertainment video library.

Jack is a struggling songwriter and musician who dreams of hitting it big although no one seems to care for his original songs and the audiences at his gigs are sparse. Then after a mysterious global blackout, he seems to be the only person om Earth who remembers the existence of the Beatles and their music. When Jack begins to perform the Beatles songs he becomes an overnight sensation with the success he has always desired within his grasp.

Jack is terrified though that there are others out there who remember the Beatles and will out him as a fraud. He also struggles with the moral dilemma of stealing other artists work as his own. Plus his new found fame creates a divide with long time relationships as his musical career creates a divide between him and his best friends. Jack ponders whether celebrity and money really are the keys to his happiness in life.

We watched YESTERDAY for a family movie night the other evening and my wife told me this is her favorite film of 2019. She appreciated the originality of the movie's story and the musical performances that play a central part of the plot. We both agreed Himesh Patel provides an outstanding performance as Jack and his singing throughout the film was top notch. I liked that this was a family-friendly movie that served as a nice introduction to the Beatles music for my 10 year old twins.

The positive messages and themes about ethics, integrity and the value of friends and family also stand out earning YESTERDAY a geek daddy nod of approval. The film approaches some heavy topics with levity providing plenty of laughs in this rock 'n' roll romantic comedy. Academy Award-winning director Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire, Trainspotting, 28 Days Later) has added another hit to his film resume with YESTERDAY.

The home entertainment video release of YESTERDAY has some wonderful bonus segments. These include deleted and extended scenes, live performances at the iconic Abbey Road Studios, an alternate opening and ending, and several featurettes with the filmmakers and cast that delve further into the movie's story. Parents beware though that there is a deleted scene featuring a naked Jack running across a room after a one night stand that probably would have given YESTERDAY an R rating. With that scene left out, the movie has been rated PG-13 for suggestive content and language.



For more information about YESTERDAY go to www.uphe.com/movies/yesterday

FUN TIMES AT GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL

Of course, swimming lessons can be a lot of fun!  But there are also lots of other good times to be had beyond just participating in classes at Goldfish Swim School. Here are four of my family's favorite things that make this swimming school extra fun to go to:

Water Safety Day

Once a year Goldfish Swim School opens its doors to anyone in the community to stop in for a day of activities that make learning about water safety fun.  This FREE event includes lifeguard demonstrations in the pool, a presentation by Bubbles ( the Goldfish Swim School mascot), and swim class instructors providing tips about water safety. Taking place just before summer break from school for most kids begins, this is a great time to think about rules and skills that are important to ensure that everyone in your family is safe during a season that is often full of spending time in and around water.

Going to Water Safety Day is always a good time because in addition to the water safety focus of the event it also has a festive carnival atmosphere to it.  The school provides lots of entertaining activities and games plus food to enjoy. All at no cost to anyone who attends!

Our local Goldfish Swim School parks bounce houses and food trucks in their parking lot for Water Safety Day. Their staff plays games with children who stop by to participate in the event and there is a balloon artist who makes wonderful creations for the kids. Families can even take a dip in the pool while they are at Goldfish Swim School for Water Safety Day.

Water Safety Day activities and dates may vary from franchise to franchise so check with your local Goldfish Swim School to find out what they have planned.  CLICK HERE to find a Goldfish Swim School location near you.  If you aren't a member of Goldfish Swim School this is a great opportunity to check out the facility and meet staff. For those who already attend it is a nice opportunity to have fun with other Goldfish families and interact with your children's swimming instructors.

Family Swim Time

Goldfish Swim School opens up its pool at lunch time on week days throughout the year to its member families. This is a wonderful chance for kids to practice their swimming but also a nice opportunity for a family to have fun playing in the water together.  When the kids have days off during the school year or during summer break, we take advantage of this free perk all the time! We've had some great times and memorable moments during Family Swim Time at Goldfish Swim School.

Family Night Out

Once a month, Goldfish Swim School hosts a Friday evening where families can come out to enjoy activities, crafts and games as well as swim in the pool. This night of family fun also includes pizza and snacks. Family Night Outs often have a theme to them. One of our favorite Family Nights Out at Goldfish Swim School involved my kids participating in an Easter Egg hunt and meeting the Easter Bunny. 

Family Night Out at Goldfish Swim School is always a fun time! There is a nominal fee to participate which at our location is $5 per person or $15 per family. Check with your local Goldfish Swim School for date and details.

Balloons

Kids can always get a FREE balloon after their swimming class at Goldfish Swim School. My daughter LOVES balloons! A balloon will always put a smile on her face.

In addition to balloons, Goldfish Swim School also gives out a unique reward for completing swim classes to kids each week. For example for St. Patrick's Day this year they gave out Leprechaun hats that week. Other weeks prizes may range from a variety of items featuring Bubbles such as coloring pages, sticker sheets and temporary tattoos.  A favorite with kids though are the Bubbles bath toys. From pirate to scuba diver each month there is a new toy that Goldfish swimmers can get.

Goldfish Swim School provides swimming lessons and water safety instruction for toddlers to twelve year olds. My kids have been swimming at Goldfish for a number of years now. Our family has truly had a golden experience! The kids not only have had a lot of fun but their swimming and water safety skills have gotten to be very impressive. I hate to admit it but they may be better swimmers than me now.

Dive in to having your family swim there by heading over to goldfishswimschool.com Tell them ageekdaddy.com sent you!

A Geek Daddy receives free products and services from Goldfish Swim School as a brand ambassador. The opinions expressed are honest and my own. They have absolutely earned ageekdaddy.com nod of approval from my own kids experiences at Goldfish Swim School.

TRAVELING DAD 2017 RETROSPECTIVE

As 2018 begins, I wanted to take a look back at my first year contributing feature articles for the Traveling Dad website.  Branching out from ageekdaddy.com, I started collaborating with other dads sharing parent focused travel tips and family vacation experiences on travelingdad.com last year.  Looking at 2017 in retrospective, a lot of my posts for #TDAD revolve around family-friendly destinations in Michigan but also covered spots like the War World I Museum in Kansas City, the High Line in New York City, the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Universal Orlando Resort and Santa Claus' house in Alaska.  I also wrote some posts on informational topics like having fun bird watching with kids and tips for participating in cosplay events.

Here are some of my favorite Traveling Dad contributions from 2017:

DETROIT HOLIDAY STAYCATION

Read about my family's experience staying at the historic Double Tree Suites Fort Shelby Hotel and going to see the Detroit Thanksgiving Day Parade as a holiday staycation.

EXPLORE MICHIGAN'S WILD SIDE AT THE EDDY DISCOVERY CENTER

Visit the nature center at one of my family's favorite Michigan state parks in this Traveling Dad post.

A HIKE ALONG THE TEMBO TRAIL

Join my family for a trek at the Toledo Zoo as we encounter close up views of elephants, hippos and rhinos.

MICHIGAN SEA LIFE AQUARIUM

Did you know that sharks live in Michigan?  You'll find them at the Michigan Sea Life Aquarium.

Read these and other travel related pieces by myself and others at travelingdad.com regarding categories such as Disney theme park & cruise info, domestic destinations, international trips, credit card points and rewards plus dad travel 101 tips.  Additionally, I'll be posting more travel themed posts on ageekdaddy.com as well tagging mentions to them on social media using the #TDAD hashtag to go along with my Traveling Dad contributions.  Now a year is under my belt, I have a better feel for writing content for travelingdad.com and am excited about getting into a Traveling Dad groove for 2018.  Stay tuned for what hopefully will be a year filled with a lot of amazing family travel experiences that this Traveling Dad is looking forward to sharing with you.

THE TOY INSIDER 2017 RETROSPECTIVE

I just wrapped up my second year being a part of the Toy Insider's Parents Panel and being involved with it was one of the highlights of 2017!  As a part of this group of moms and dads, we each make regular contributions on thetoyinsider.com providing tips from parents for parents on a wide range of topics including educational tools we've used, our kids' favorite toys, and ways to get children engaged in imaginative play.  In addition to writing for the Toy Insider's website, Parents Panel members are provided samples of toys throughout the year so we can share reviews of our family's own experiences on our own websites, serves as Twitter party hosts where we give out some really nice prizes while having some fun conversations, and get inside access to preview events where we get to see the next hot toys before they even hit store shelves.

Hope you have read some of my posts on thetoyinsider.com!  Here are a few of my best Toy Insider posts from 2017:

GET KIDS BUG-EYED ABOUT LEARNING

SUMMER STAY-CATION:  FUN IDEAS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

KEEP KIDS ACTIVE: FUN WITH FLYING DISCS

GAMES EVERYONE KNOWS (BUT DON'T KNOW HOW TO PLAY)

MAKING LASTING MEMORIES WITH FUN FAMILY MOVIE NIGHTS

I'll be continuing on with the Toy Insider's Parents Panel into 2018 so keep an eye out on my Twitter, Instagram and Facebook feeds for announcements about my blog posts for them, contests and giveaways, toy reviews, Twitter parties and more.  Plus you can CLICK HERE for a listing of upcoming Twitter Parties as well ... I always have fun joining in on them and each one always gives out some great prizes to a few lucky participants.

Toy Insider Christmas

Being a member of the Toy Insider's Parent Panel has been an incredible experience!  I really enjoy being a regular contributor to their website, participating as a panelist for the Toy Insider Twitter Parties, and serving as a promotional ambassador for the annual Sweet Suite toy expo.  Serving on the Parent Panel has led to me interacting with some wonderful people and provided my family the opportunity to have a lot of fun reviewing a variety of amazing products.

The holiday season is an especially enjoyable time to be associated with the Toy Insiders because their is such an interest in games and toys during this time of the year.  The Toy Insiders always do a stellar job showcasing toys they've researched throughout the year and believe would thrill children to receive as presents through their HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE which is printed within November's issue of the Family Circle magazine and can also be viewed online at thetoyinsider.com.  They also get the Parent Panel members involved by having us do a blog post with each of us highlighting our favorite toy included within the Toy Insider's HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE selections.  Click here to see what each of us picked.

Each of the parents on the panel were also asked to have their kids go through the HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE and create a wish list of their favorite items presumably to be highlighted in a similar write up to the one us adults had recently done.  My kids enthusiastically scrolled through the Toy Insider's online gift guide yelling out toys they'd like Santa to bring them this year.  They're really going to be excited to find out though that instead of using those ideas as part of a blog post, our family had a huge box delivered to the house filled with giftwrapped presents for my son and daughter.  How amazing was that of the Toy Insider for them to do that?!

I'm going to keep these presents a surprise from my kids and we're going to have an extra special Toy Insider Christmas this year.  To avoid my twins getting duplicate gifts from relatives, Santa or mom and dad, I did peel open the wrapping and peek inside each of the gifts.  Do you want to know what was inside all the presents from our Toy Insider's gift box?  Ok ... just between us I'll let you know what I found:

BOYS GIFTS

MAGIC HAT

My eight year old boy is infatuated with magic tricks so he's going to be thrilled to get this MAGIC HAT set from Thames & Kosmos.  It provides the opportunity to learn and perform 35 different magic tricks. There are more than 40 props and instructions to learn tricks, such as making a magic wand float, bend, and grow.

BLACK VOLTRON LION

My son is also really into the Netflix VOLTRON animated series so he'll definitely be excited to unwrap this diecast lion figure from the show.  Playmate Toys sells the 5 lion vehicles featured in the Netflix episodes individually and they can all be combined to create a robot warrior.

LEGO NINJAGO MOVIE

He has been obsessed with the LEGO NINJAGO MOVIE all year long so my son is going to be delighted by this GREEN NINJA MECH DRAGON from LEGO.  I know this toy is going to get a lot of use once it is put together!  The 544-piece mech features articulated snapping jaws, a fully poseable body, a wheel-activated swooshing tail, two leg-mounted stud shooters, and two hidden pop-out thrusters. Plus it comes with four Ninjago mini-figures with assorted weapons.

GIRLS GIFTS

LEGO FRIENDS SNOW RESORT SKI SET

LEGO toys aren't just for boys and my daughter loves playing and building with them just as much as her twin brother does.  She's going to have a lot of fun playing with this winter themed play set. Build the ultimate winter sports resort, featuring a working ski lift, a rock climbing wall, a ski slope sliding function, and more. The 585-piece set includes two mini-dolls and a bear cub figure.

STAR WARS FORCES OF DESTINY DOLL

My passion for Star Wars movies has rubbed off on my daughter.  She went as Rey for Halloween one year and will be so happy to unwrap a doll featuring her favorite Star Wars character.  The 11-inch sized dolls in the Hasbro Forces of Destiny collection are articulated with soft clothing, rooted hair, and battle-ready action moves.

HAPPY PLACES DISNEY COLLECTION

My daughter already has a lot of fun playing with the HAPPY PLACES toy sets she already has; so I know she's going to appreciate being able to add some furniture to her collection from one of her favorite movies, Beauty & the Beast.  Moose Toys has created Disney-themed furniture and home décor to add a special touch to HAPPY PLACES rooms. This play set features two rooms and exclusive Belle home décor accessories.

Have yourself a Toy Insider Christmas by perusing their HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE as part of your holiday shopping routine.  In addition to an overall list of suggestions broken down by age groups (Infants & Toddlers / Preschool / Grade School / Tweens), the Toy Insider also has specific recommendations on the HOT TOYS of the year, plus highlights items specifically in the tech and STEM categories.  Each toy has an informative description included with a picture as well as symbols that designate skill sets that will benefit from playing with it such as motor skills, school readiness and social interactions. Plus you won't be surprised if a toy needs batteries or not because each listing clearly identifies whether or not they are needed.  The Toy Insider website is a great resource to help you find the perfect gifts for the children in your life.

Don't just visit thetoyinsider.com during the holiday season though! They publish informative toy reviews by trustworthy expert staff throughout the year on everything from action figures and dolls to remote control cars and video games.  As well as feature articles by good ole me! Did I mention they also regularly host some fabulous contests and giveaways too!  The Toy Insider's website is one you definitely should bookmark because it is a valuable resource to take advantage of.  You know they have A Geek Daddy nod of approval!