HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE KIDS EDITION
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Some kids are hard to shop for… Here are some fun ideas!
Thinking Forward with NY’s 529 College Savings Program
/This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx.com and contains information on the New York’s 529 College Savings Program Direct Plan. The content and opinions expressed in this post are my own.
With three kids who are growing up so fast… where is their pause button!… it’s safe to say that I’ve thought about their futures. Brycen, who’s going on 12, is still really loving soccer and has set high goals for himself! I love seeing him grow and try new things. This summer he took up graphic design and has been creating logos for all of his friends. Then there is Brinkley who is a gymnastics fanatic, artist extraordinaire and the best friend you’ll ever have. So loving and caring; I just can’t wait to see what life will bring her. And Brent… our baby! Always the baby in our family. He’s almost 5. And we can’t believe how quickly he is growing up.
So as we head “Back-to-School” (whatever that may look like!) the thought of what their education costs will be over the years pops into my head. Happy to say college is still years away but it’s never too late or too EARLY to start saving! That is why we started NY’s 529 College Saving Program Direct Plan accounts. I realized that saving for college now can reduce the burden of college debt later, for both us and our children. Have you thought about a college saving plan?
If I recall correctly, my husband and I had the talk about starting this account back when our oldest one was still in diapers. It took us a few years to actually take action and get his account active but I am so beyond happy that we did. It also made starting ones for our younger kids a no brainer. It’s sometimes hard to think about the future expenses and college when the kids are so young but it’s one of the best choices we made. Plus, they make it super simple with automatic transfers and payroll deductions.
Haven’t heard of New York’s 529 Direct Plan, yet? Don’t worry. I was there too. Luckily I am here to help answer some of your questions!
So New York’s 529 Direct Plan has been around for more than 20 years. The program as a whole is run by the state, in New York’s capital of Albany, but Vanguard provides the investment options. And most states like NY have state-sponsored and supervised 529 plans, which are investment saving plans designed to help parents save for college and other kinds of higher education like graduate programs. Typically, 529 have low fees, minimum investments are modest, and there can be both state and federal tax benefits for the saver.
I also learned that people from other states can and do join any state plan and can use the savings at any eligible school in 50 states and abroad. The 529 plans are investment accounts that help families save for college because they’re federal tax-deferred. Many states, like New York, offer state tax benefits too*. New York’s 529 Direct Plan has several advantages compared to other state 529s. The fees are low, there are no minimum contributions, and it’s easy to join and manage your account online, which is great since we are all busy parents!
Saving now, rather than borrowing later, makes the overall college cost much lower. The NY 529 savings can be used at thousands of colleges, as well as graduate, vocational and technical schools like I mentioned. But the best part is that they are not ‘use or lose.’ Meaning if your child doesn’t need the savings, (wahoo!) then a family member can use them, or savers can take them back if some taxes are paid*. Which is a must! So even if what you have to save is a small amount, the 529 puts time on your side and gives you real tax advantages now, and flexibility later*.
MOM (or Dad!) TIP: Something we’ve done over the years is ask friends and relatives to make gift contributions!
I know this is a lot of information but hopefully I helped make saving for our little dreamers a bit easier! Because hey, you never know what our children will want to be in the future! Learn all the details at NYsaves.org/blastoff
Have a question? Comment below!
DISCLOSURES
*Earnings on federal nonqualified withdrawals may be subject to federal income tax and a 10% federal penalty tax, as well as state and local income taxes. Tax and other benefits are contingent on meeting other requirements. Please consult your tax advisor about your particular situation.
** Contributions of up to $10,000 are deductible annually from New York State taxable income for married couples filing jointly; single taxpayers can deduct up to $5,000 annually. New York State tax deductions may be subject to recapture in certain circumstances such as rollovers to another state's 529 plan, federal nonqualified withdrawals, or withdrawals used to pay elementary or secondary school tuition, registered apprenticeship program expenses, or qualified education loan repayments as described in the Disclosure Booklet and Tuition Savings Agreement. State tax benefits for non-resident New York taxpayers may vary. Please consult your tax advisor about your particular situation.
Investment returns are not guaranteed, and you could lose money by investing in the Direct Plan.
For more information about New York's 529 College Savings Program Direct Plan, download a Disclosure Booklet and Tuition Savings Agreement [nysaves.org] or request one by calling 877-NYSAVES (877-697-2837). This document includes investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other information. You should read and consider them carefully before investing.
Before you invest, consider whether your or the beneficiary's home state offers any state tax or other benefits that are only available for investments in that state's 529 plan. Other state benefits may include financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors.
The Comptroller of the State of New York and the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation are the Program Administrators and are responsible for implementing and administering the Direct Plan.
Ascensus Broker Dealer Services, LLC, serves as Program Manager and, in connection with its affiliates, provides recordkeeping and administrative support services and is responsible for day-to-day operations of the Direct Plan. The Vanguard Group, Inc., serves as the Investment Manager. Vanguard Marketing Corporation provides marketing and distribution services to the Direct Plan.
No guarantee: None of the State of New York, its agencies, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), The Vanguard Group, Inc., Ascensus Broker Dealer Services, LLC, nor any of their applicable affiliates insures accounts or guarantees the principal deposited therein or any investment returns on any account or investment portfolio.
New York's 529 College Savings Program currently includes two separate 529 plans. The Direct Plan is sold directly by the Program. You may also participate in the Advisor-Guided Plan, which is sold exclusively through financial advisors and has different investment options and higher fees and expenses as well as financial advisor compensation.
© 2021 New York’s 529 College Savings Program Direct Plan
Reimagining Halloween 2020 with Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks
/*This is a sponsored post but all comments are my own.
Fall has officially arrived and for many that means that the Halloween decorations can finally go up! We all know that Halloween will be a bit different this year and Sun-Maid is dedicated to being mom’s ally, by being there to provide better for you snacks that taste delicious, so moms don’t have to choose between her and her kids’ satisfaction! Plus, Sour Raisin Snacks already have a Halloween costume! These delicious golden raisins are “dressed up” to taste like candy so that moms and dads can feel more in control during this crazy season of candy and sugar overload! Taking the raisin up a level using sweet golden raisins, and simply adding a little sour pucker of natural fruit flavoring– that’s it! Nothing artificial, and it’s an entirely new flavor experience. They are available in sour flavors kids love; including blue raspberry, mixed berry, watermelon and strawberry. Cue the candy corn and caramel apples!
I have put together some fun and creative ways to keep Halloween safe this year but packed full of spooky thrills! My kids LOVE Halloween and I don’t want them to feel like we can’t celebrate. As we wait to find out what NYC announces for trick-or-treating guidelines, I thought it would be fun to start celebrating! Here are some of the things we will be doing.
1. PUMPKIN PICKING
These better-for-you smarter snack choices are a perfect treat to toss in your bag during all your fall festive outings! Whether you’ll be heading to the local farm to go pumpkin picking, taking a hayride through the pumpkin patch or venture out into the crazy corn maze, what better treat to refuel than with the nutritious Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks. We packed them in our bag when we went apple picking last week! So grab a box the next time you’re shopping at your local retailer, Walmart or Target if you are craving something that tastes like sour candy but are whole fruit with no added sugar. Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks are a better-for-you Halloween treat too!
2. BAKING
Another great way to start celebrating is by baking together. Yes, we are all back in the kitchen now that the weather is cooling off! And we couldn’t be more excited because pumpkin pie is our favorite! Just the smell of it baking makes me to happy! Here is a delicious recipe from GoodHousekeeping … Then all you need to do it add a handful (or more we aren’t judging!) of your favorite flavor Sun-Maid Sours! How yummy does that sound. You can also make a pumpkin or ghost shape out of them on top! Be creative and have fun… the kids will love it! Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks are the perfect Fall treat to add to all your favorite recipes.
3. PUMPKIN PARTY
If you really want to get into the Halloween spirit the best thing to do is pumpkin carving, am I right?! Ok, this is a fun Fall favorite and every year we pick a weekend in October to carve them. This year I wanted to make it even more special, so we invited a few neighbors (outside with masks on!), spread out on a large table outside and the kids had a blast! I know that carving pumpkins can be hard and mess so if you want to do something a bit easier you can put out paint and stickers for the kids! This is a great option for younger ones because they won’t need much assistance. How cute are these! Plus, I used Sun-Maid Sours as the treat and the kids devoured them. They just love the sweet golden raisins with a little sour pucker made of natural fruit flavoring! And I love them too!
4. HALLOWEEN CRAFT
No one loves crafting more than me, so I knew I had to come up with a creative Halloween craft this year… We love doing everything together so I didn’t want to do anything that is too complicated that the kids can’t help with! I always let them get their hands dirty too (so to speak!) The best way to do this is to give them their own jobs! Today we made these super scary spiders out of cookies and of course, Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks! All you need to do is lay out the materials and have the kids make their own! Being as creative as they want! We also took pre-made chocolate pudding and a bit of crushed up cookie then mixed in Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks for a delicious Halloween treat! I loved watching the kids make these delicious scary snacks! They got so into it!
5. SCAVENGER HUNT
Not sure if you’ll be able to go trick-or-treating? Don’t worry! Set up a fun and safe Halloween in your own backyard or even inside your apartment! All you need to do is arrange a fun Halloween themed items around the house and give the kids a list of all the things to find! Think Jack-o-lantern, Witches Hat, Ghost, Spider Webs… They’ll have the best time and a great way to sneak in a fun snack with Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks.
So, if you are wondering what treat to give out this Halloween you will not disappoint with these tasty treats because Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks are fruit snacks the way nature intended! Taking the raisin up a level using sweet golden raisins, and simply adding a little sour pucker of natural fruit flavoring– that’s it! No added sugar, and nothing artificial. It’s an entirely new flavor experience ... like candy that’s sour yet sweet. Who would’ve thought a better-for-you fruit snack this tasty would come from something so simple? Sun-Maid snacks are made with whole fruit and give parents the confidence they need in choosing snacks that provide both great taste and nutrition for a happy & healthy family. For more than 100 years, Sun-Maid has stayed true to its roots with its commitment to whole-fruit, better-for-you products kids crave, and parents approve.
To learn more about Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks and creative Halloween ideas, be sure to connect with Sun-Maid on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Back-2-School with Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks
/*This post is sponsored by Sun-Maid . All opinions are my own.
As the kids head back to school (whatever that looks like!) the daily task of packing lunches comes back into play. Did you know that over the course of a year you’ll pack over 180 lunches? And that's if you have one child, think about all the families out there with 2, 3, 4 kids! Wow, now that’s a lot of lunches. Moms and dads all over the country will be searching for that better-for-you and convenient whole fruit snack kids enjoy… and won’t return unopened and uneaten in the lunchbox.
That’s why we love Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks! Just like when you were a kid, Sun-Maid’s proven track record of trusted comfort and wholesome fruit is a connection you can feel confident about passing down to your children. For more than 100 years, Sun-Maid has stayed true to its roots with its commitment to wholfruit, better-for-you products kids crave and most important, parents approve.
Now they get to experience that same joy because childhood is always in session! And showing the kids how much we care for them with a little extra “love” in their lunch boxes is the least we can do these days. Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks taste like sour candy but are whole fruit with no added sugar. They taste like gummy candy but are whole fruit… taking the raisin up a level using golden raisins, and simply adding a little sour pucker of natural fruit flavoring– that’s it! No added sugar, and nothing artificial. It’s an entirely new flavor experience that the kids love!
I have a few mom tips to help make packing lunch this year super easy!
When packing up my kids’ lunches it’s all about making each of them happy! And to do that takes creativity, trust me! If there is one thing I’ll incorporate into their lunches this year it’s FUN! Because being a kid is what they need to do. So one of my favorite tricks in making sure my kids are “happy” and well fed, is making food they’ll eat. It may not always be pretty, and volunteering in the school’s cafeteria over the years I’ve seen the most extravagant lunches imaginable! I love to give them the tools to make their own lunches with DIY Lunches!
That way they get to have fun creating and using the foods they are craving most. Like right now we’ve been topping all of our snacks with Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks. They are the perfect addition to many afternoon treats and are perfect to throw into any lunchbox. Sour Raisin Snacks have no added sugar, and nothing artificial, and they’re available in Blue Raspberry, Mixed Berry, Watermelon, and Strawberry flavors.
Recipe ideas:
Crackers and almond butter with Mixed Berry Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks
Yogurt and granola and Strawberry Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks
Celery with peanut butter and Blue Raspberry Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks
Toast, cinnamon, cream cheese with Watermelon Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks
Trail mix with peanuts, carob chips and an assortment of Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks
Now, I know the kids will love this idea but there are many opportunities to incorporate a slice of home and that love into their little lunch boxes! Like doing something super silly for Wacky Wednesdays (think mini-pancake pizzas topped with Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks) or SuperHero Day! Include printables of their favorite hero’s and some crayon for them to color during lunch time. Plus, the better-for-you snack will make them feel their best! And for the younger ones make a game out of eating with a fun Counting & Sorting Chart for them to use with their Sun-Maid Sour Raisin Snacks. Check out Brent using his and loving it.
For the bigger kids, let them show their own style by Making their Own Masks. Put markers and a white cotton mask and have the kids decorate their own masks to show off their mood. I love the one Brinkley made with little red hearts! Also, packing the lunch box with healthy food and Health Tips (include sanitizer or wipes) but make it fun by writing a cute poem or hand drawn picture that reminds them to wash hands before they eating! But what the kids will love most of all is seeing Something Personal from you so even a small note or heart drawing is sometimes all you need to let them know you care.
While going back to school this year is certainly different than it has ever been, one thing is for sure,: school is back in session and childhood is ALWAYS in session. Sun-Maid gives parents the confidence they need in choosing snacks that provide both great taste and nutrition for a happy and healthy family.
At Home Learning with ABCMouse.com
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Brent’s nursery school is doing a great job at sending over some really fun ways to keep him active and busy during our quarantine time. But we all know how busy little ones are and instead of reaching for the phone to watch another silly video, I decided today that we would download ABCMouse.com!
Brent is 4 years old an currently obsessed with numbers and counting. I am not exaggerating, one day we sat on the couch for 4 hours and counted with magnatiles the entire time. No screen time nothing! But most days he’s asking me for the phone to watch videos.
So today we downloaded ABCMouse.com to get him learning while he’s home. I had enough with him watching silly youtube videos when I know he really wants to learn and be engaged.
That is why ABCMouse.com was perfect for us! He gets so much from working on this site. It has surpassed our expectations and he is learning so much. There are so many counting games and songs! He is so excited to learn and this interactive site lets him explore and learn what he is interested in at his own pace! They are currently running a few deals. Pick which one works best for you using the below links…
A Mom’s Guide to Finding the Right Pediatric Eye Doctor with New York Ophthalmology
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We all remember to schedule doctor appointments and dental check-ups for our kids. But staying on top of eye health can sometimes slip through the cracks—especially when you’re a busy mom. Although eye care may not seem like a high priority, regular exams are more important than you think. We all want our little ones to be happy and healthy. We should make sure they can see well, too! Brent recently got glasses (how cute does he look in his new shades?!), so I’ve had a bit of experience in choosing the right eye doctor. Here’s a quick guide to finding a pediatric ophthalmology practice in Jackson Heights, Manhattan, and beyond.
Most schools offer vision screenings for preschool and elementary school students. But these screenings are often very short and overlook a lot of potential vision problems. As the experts at New York Ophthalmology point out, “These screenings may overlook kids with ‘lazy eye’ or eyes that aren’t coordinated. They recommend children get annual eye exams with a qualified eye doctor to ensure that vision conditions are diagnosed and treated as early as possible.” It’s tempting to skip an eye exam if your kids haven’t complained about their eyes or their vision. But remember, vision changes usually happen very slowly. Children often don’t know they have a vision issue or eye condition because they’ve simply gotten used to it. Routine eye exams can keep you ahead of the curve and make sure your kids are developing safely and healthily.
Your child’s school or pediatrician can usually recommend a pediatric eye doctor. Thanks to the internet, though, an eye doctor is only a quick Google search away. Be on the lookout for a doctor who is a member of a professional organization such as the American Academy of Optometry. Browse their website and make sure they specialize in pediatric eye services and have a lot of experience with children. It takes a special someone to work well with kids. An eye doctor with a pediatric specialty will have the skills to diagnose any issues and the approach to make your child feel relaxed and comfortable.
Kids with healthy eyes can see better at school, perform better in the classroom, and feel more comfortable while exercising or playing sports. The American Academy of Optometry has some advice for how often parents should take their kids in for eye exams.
Schedule the first exam for your baby at around 6 months old
Bring in preschool-age children at around 3 years old
Between 6 to 18 years old, schedule a check-up every 2 years
If you’re an adult between the ages of 18 to 60, don’t forget to schedule a yearly appointment for yourself, too!
If you’re in the greater New York area and looking for an eye doctor, consider the fantastic team at New York Ophthalmology. They offer pediatric eye services in the Bronx, Jamaica, and Jackson Heights, and they’re also opening a new branch in Washington Heights early this year!
No parent is perfect, but we can always do our best to make sure our kids are happy, healthy, and given every chance to succeed. Finding the right eye doctor for your little ones ensures they’ll be bright-eyed for years to come.
*This is a sponsored post but all thoughts and comments are my own.
Moms Night Out with Parents Magazine! #MTNIGHTOUT
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Mom’s Nights Outs are must! I was so excited to attend the Parents Magazine event this past week. Let me tell you it was exactly what this busy mamma needed! Like, really… Because there were Halloween themed crafts, DIY perfume, personalizing Baby Dove Bath Caddies and a Clorox Wipes sponsored create-your-own Snow Globe Station. And you all know how much I LOVE crafting! I was in my own creative heaven. I crave being creative so tonight the moms bonded over a glass of rose and getting crafty! That is my kind of Mom’s Night out!
Parents Magazine has been my go-to magazine for years! Can you believe I have been a mom for 11 years?! I can’t… Parent’s Magazine is equally great for new moms as it is for old moms like me! I love all the mom and family inspired info. There are always great tips plus the beautiful make-your-own ideas are so inspiring. There are great in-depth kid related articles that always hit home and they always include what’s current and happening in the mom/parent world. I just relate to literally everything on every page and I always leave inspired. Plus, it gives such a safe sense of wellbeing if that is even a thing! It reminds me that I am not alone and that there are tons of people out there dealing with the same issues. #MOMLIFE
Um, like messes! The daily grind… pick up kids, make kids a snack, clean up the snack, do homework, soccer practice, make dinner, clean up dinner… You get the picture! Well, tonight we got to escape that for a bit. We also got a chance to create-our-own Snow Globes sponsored by Clorox Wipes. And they defitinly came in handy while using the sticky adhesive. Clorox Disinfecting Wipes provide a convenient and effective way to tackle life’s messes while killing 99.9% of germs. At home I use them for all my daily messes and I have a lot to them! From the kitchen to the bathroom to the spills even in the bedrooms, Clorox Wipes are always there to help this momma out! We do tons of crafts at home and having Clorox wipes around always puts me at easy when the kids are making their crafts. I don’t need to stress the mess! I get to enjoy the mess and relax knowing Clorox wipes are there to help! Plus, clean spaces serve as a springboard for kids’ creativity. When a child’s workspace is clean, the majority of parents agree that their kids are more productive and creative.
Even creating these yummy DIY Spooky Smoothies come with a mess factor! But totally worth it, look how cute they came out! I love the craft ideas from Parents. Plus they are super simple and fun for the whole family. Check out how amazing the chocolate donut spider came out! The kids are going to love making them at our Halloween Party this week. Want to add a little healthy options are your halloween Party? Well these adorable festive fruits skewers are the perfect touch. With melon and berries it offers something healthy plus you can even draw with the edible marker on the marshmallow! What a creative idea! I know I’ll be using these ideas at my next gathering.
Family is super important to me and there are a few brands that I choose when shopping for them. Dove is one of those brands. I use Dove myself and having a brand you can rely on and trust is important when you are choosing something for the rest of the family, especially baby! Did you know that babies are born with a living protective layer of microflora on their skin, known as their microbiome? Well the micro biome is unique to each baby and works to maintain skin’s health while also helping with skin’s natural protection and nourishment. When I was a new mom I was bombarded with options and when I saw the Dove label it gave me comfort because its a brand I swear by. Mom Tip: Try using Baby Dove to remove eye make up (no tears) plus it’s soft and gently leaving skin with it’s natural oils. Just like it does for baby.
Creating your own scent is such a unique experience. I absolutely loved doing this process with Alchemologie.com. It is so personal… Picking the base notes and all the other scents and then mixing them into something you’ve created. I am really drawn to citrus scents like nectarine but one of my favorite fruit scents is fig. Combining these scents and making it my own was so much fun. I actually think it’s something the kids will enjoy too! Especially Brinkley who has been sneaking into my perfume cabinet recently!
Being a parent is one of life’s greatest things… It is a wonderful experience but at times, it can be exhausting and overwhelming. That is why I appreciate nights like this when I can get out an enjoy with other moms. Craft if I want to, and thankfully Grandma was happy to babysit!
To read last years post click here.
*This is a sponsored post but all thoughts are my own
Fall in the City... Curated for kids of ALL ages!!
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When Fall comes around we all start to crave pumpkin spice lattes, cozy chic sweaters and a visit to the pumpkin patch! Well, maybe not all of us... There are those of you who don’t enjoy pumpkin spice as much as the rest of us! But that’s ok. I am sure you still love a visit to the pumpkin patch as much as the next mom!
But there is so much more to do during the Fall. The city is packed with festive Halloween actives likes hayrides, mazes and so much more. I have come up with a great list of things to do in and around the NYC area. So if you are like me and already did the pumpkin patch thing and are looking for more fun Fall festive things to do with the kiddos here are some great ideas! And I’ve made sure to let you know what is good for small kids and bigger kids!
Fall Fest at Liberty Science Center (ALL AGES)- This outdoor one of a kind set up (with the Statue of Liberty as you backdrop) was a first for us! We’ve been coming to the Liberty Science Center for years and this was our first outdoor experience! We loved the apple cider stand, the spider maze and the petting zoo. Plus Brycen and Brinkley enjoyed playing archery at the apple tree set up right off the parking lot. Check this out and then head inside for so many more new exhibits like the Dinosaur Train and Angry Birds. Dinosaur Train is great for younger kids. They can dress up and play train conductor, play board games on the train and even ring the bell! Even choose what type of Dinosour they want to learn about. Plus there is a digging pit and fossil making room. Your kids will love it. Angry Birds has something for all ages with car building and racing to actual life size angry bird slingshot! Right now Liberty Science Center even has one of the areas largest indoor pumpkin patches. Which the kids can pick and decorate to bring home.
Boo At The Zoo - Bronx Zoo - (ALL AGES) WEEKENDS SEPTEMBER 28 - NOVEMBER 3 (INCLUDING MONDAY, OCTOBER 14) - Come dressed up for some spooky family fun for all! Tickets are a must. Get in advance here. Tickets are on sale now through Nov. 3 with a discount for the Full Experience pass. Check the calendar and times for such things as pumpkin carving demos, costume parade, halloween crafts, corn maze, candy trail and SO much more! They’ve added a ton this year so don’t miss out like the Spooktacular Night Walk. Stay after the gates close for this special seasonal event.
Pips Island - (Ages 4-10) Don’t miss out on all the Fall fun happening over at Pip’s Island in the heart of New York City. This fun interactive experience is even open on Halloween! Tickets available now click here. Plus, on Oct. 19, 20, 26, 27 and 31st there are FREE Fat Which Brownie Treats with make-your-own spooktacular brownies! And as of Oct 19th the new Cafe will be open with tons of other sweet treats! Happy Haunting!
Haunted Hill- (7-10 years) Head over to Prospect Park on Saturday Oct 24th for the Prospect Park Alliance 36th Annual Halloween Haunted Walk and Fair from 12 to 3 pm. The annual event brings thousands of families to Prospect Park’s Lookout Hill and Nethermead for an afternoon of ghoulish fun that is free and open to the public. There are zombies, werewolves and other Halloween characters on the aunted walk through the woodland Lookout Hill. Then enjoy festive Halloween Fair on the Nethermead, from some of the city’s top food trucks.
Governors Island- (ALL AGES) The RISE of the Jack O’Lanterns invites you to Night of 1,000 Jack O’Lanterns, a truly unique jack o’lantern jaunt on Governors Island! There is a lot of walking so bring scooters and your camera! This show is one of a kind. You’ll get to walk through the path of 1000 Jack O’Lanterns as it becomes dark you’ll walk along the illuminated tree-lined pathway to see all the real carved pumpkin masterpieces! They sell light up necklaces and other fun lights up toys. Definitely a unique experience. Advanced tickets required click here.
Mohonk Mountain House- FALL WEEKEND GET AWAY- (Children 3 and up) If you are looking to get out of the city and enjoy some beautiful Fall Foliage along the way then the Mohonk Mountain House is a must! Plus there are tons of farms for apple and pumpkin picking near by. It’s peaceful and tranquil setting just about an hour and half north of NYC has spectacular views plus a kids club, hiking trails and the rooms are totally unplugged! You can connect with nature or get physical. There is so much to do like Archery/Tomahawk throwing to mediation to afternoon cookies! Plus a warm indoor pool, billiard room and a beautiful buffet. This hotel is great for children over 3. It is not super baby, toddler friendly although I went with a 2 year old and we had a blast.
#MOMBOSS Mother's Day Must-Haves
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I could make a list a mile long of thing I could use or want but I have narrowed them down to three perfect items for this #MOMBOSS Mother’s Day must-haves list. When I really sat down to think about this list, I realized that what makes me the happiest is my family and getting to take them on a little weekend trip away and making memories is what I really want this Mother’s Day. I absolutely love a fabulous gift, don’t get me wrong! That’s why I’ve included my new best friend and ultimate crush on this list… Psst she cleans up after your mess!! You guys will thanks me for this one! Plus some things are better left said by the professionals. You’ll fall in love with this scented candle created just for that zen moment we all crave. These are the items I know all you busy moms out there need and deserve!
Woodloch Poconos resorts
First up is my ultimate mountain escape weekend getaway at one of the best family resorts, Woodloch Pines! It’s in the top 1% of properties worldwide on TripAdvisor and provides an atmosphere for families to create memories that last a lifetime. I have been dying to take the family here for years and now that Brent is 3, I know they are all at the perfect ages to love and enjoy all that Woodloch Poconos resorts has to offer. Woodloch vacations have been built on the concept of “togethering” for over 60 years. One of my favorite things I used to do with the kids has been escaping to the mountains for the weekend. We loved having the county life on the weekends and then appreciate the busy city life during the week. Now that we aren’t able to travel as much on the weekends, due to kids sports and other commitments, having a special weekend like Mother’s Day is the perfect time to pack up the car and head out of town! Plus, with three kids in tow, Woodloch offered spacious rooms and tons of amenities for the whole family. They even have nightly entertainment if you can sneak that in too! The Woodloch family of properties also encompasses Woodloch Springs, an 18-hole championship golf course community, as well as a sister resort, The Lodge at Woodloch, an award-winning, luxury destination spa. The trilogy spans 1,200 acres and can accommodate over 1,000 guests. So no matter what type of family vacation you are looking for, Woodloch has you covered. I hope to get to that spa while the kids are enjoying the outdoors. Is that too much to ask?! I think not…
The DEEBOT
But while we are away I know this next item will be making my house spotless for when I return. Why do kids make so many crumbs? Between the goldfish snacks and the glitter from all the slime DIY’s happening in my house, I am never not picking up something on the floor. That is why I choose the ECOVACS’ flagship product, the DEEBOT as the ultimate gift for myself this Mother’s Day! It is the best robot vacuum I have seen! Like when my toddler brings home a huge pile of sand in his shoes or pockets from the playground. This is made for busy people like us!! I also like that you are able to schedule routine cleanings (like after dinner), or instantly launch a cleaning at anytime from anywhere via the ECOVACS app! So if you are out and you forgot you have people coming over in half an hour, just click the button and you get to come home to a clean house! DEEBOT helps to minimize cleaning time, and maximize living time! She has become my new best friend!
“Thank you, Mom” Candle by Homesick
This Homesick candle says it all so they don’t have to! I am sure they all mean to tell me everyday how much they love me and appreciate me but with this candle it will remind me everyday how lucky I am to be a mom! It smells like freshly trimmed flowers on the kitchen table… with lingering wafts of your favorite perfume. The smell of breakfast sizzling on Sunday. A house made a home because of you! This candle will forever be on my kitchen table. I just love it so much and it is such a great gift to give as well. Tell Mom you love her with scents like Bergamot, Lavender, Sage and undertones of Jasmine, Ylang-ylang, White Lily and Clove. It is hand poured in the USA and made with an all-natural soy wax blend. TIP: Keep the the wick trimmed down to 1/4 inch at all times to avoid tall flames and soot gathering on the glass. Because the glass is reusable for a decor piece or planter once the candle is gone. Simply hand-wash the glass with soap and warm water and voila!
Take 15% off with code BABBLE (Valid between 4/1/19-5/31/19)
I also wouldn't mind that mug saying “best mom ever” cause yeah, I’ll take that too! Xoxo and Happy Mother’s Day!
This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx.com. But all thoughts and comments are my own.
The "Magic" Of Baby Magic Since 1951
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I had so much fun at the Bunnies, Blooms and Baby Magic Event last week in NYC! There were cute bunnies, brunch, diy bouquets and tons of BABY MAGIC products of course!!
The iconic baby care brand, Baby Magic, has been a staple in my home for years. People used to ask if I used baby perfume on my older son when he was little, but no, it was always Baby Magic! Now this family owned company is expanding the brand and it’s back and better than ever! Plus they are going back to the original mascot, the baby bunny! Isn’t he just so darn cute!
I was excited to smell test the nostalgic Original Baby Line at the event as well as the new scents they just launched. And I couldn’t resist cuddling with the cutest little bunnies either! The scent brings back so many memories. Visiting my grandparents with my siblings when we were little and taking baths at their house and then being covered head-to-toe in Baby Magic before being whisked off to bed… that’s why I choose Baby Magic for my little ones because it reminds me of those warm cozy nights with my family.
I love that it is now free of all sulfates, mineral oil, dyes, parabens, phthalates, talc and lanolin for a happy baby and mommy! Also, with the brand’s expansion, they are now offering new innovative products to help keep up with the growing needs of the new generation of parents. While still providing the beloved quality and scent to their loyal fans. Check out all the product details below!
Original Baby Scent Line - The beloved “pink” iconic scent is now offered in a Cleansing Gel, Baby Lotion, and Creamy Baby Oil (my favorite!). This line is perfect for bathing and hydrating little ones with normal to dry skin and features Camellia Oil and Marshmallow Root which soothes dry skin and calms inflammation. Also, a tear free formula!
Lavender Lullaby Calming Bath and Calming Lotion- This new collection helps baby have a good night’s rest with the sweet-smelling Lavender scent. These are perfect to use during your night-time routine for cleansing and moisturizing. The aromatic scents help calm and relax baby for sweet dreams plus the soothing ingredients like Lavender, Chamomile and Aloe will help baby’s skin feel hydrated.
Sweet Buttercup Scent 2-in-1 Wash and Moisturizing Lotion- Does your baby have sensitive skin? This new line features extra soothing ingredients such as Calendula Oil, Coconut Oil and Shea Butter. Calendula Oil has a gentle and nourishing botanical property which is known to help soothe dry, sensitive skin. Coconut Oil and Shea Butter give baby that extra soft feel while helping them stay comfortable all day long.
Multipurpose Hydrogel Patch- This one of a kind customizable cooling patch is designed to keep baby’s skin feeling soothed, moisturized and calm. The patch was created for multi-purposes from sunburn to dry skin to soothing baby from a fever. It is formulated with a blend of Vitamin B12, Camphor and Aloe to nourish and calm the skin. The patch is self-adhering and provides instant cooling relief and can be cut to size and shape. I recommend keeping some in the fridge for extra refreshing relief! I've even had my husband try this for his headaches and they really help!
3-in-1 Wipes - Another innovative product are these new wipes. They aren’t just for baby anymore! These wipes can be used all over the body including the face and hands and since they are 99% water, they are also great for quick clean ups! Perfect for use anywhere and anytime ! Plus, they are free of fragrance, alcohol, sulfates, parabens, phthalates oils, and dyes. These ultra-soft cloth-like wipes are infused with soothing Aloe, Chamomile and Vitamin E making them suitable for even sensitive skin.
Thanks to Mom Trends for hosting another fabulous event. I am super excited to try all these new Baby Magic products. I love how many of them cross over to being household and family staples and not just for baby! Which makes me happy because my family is growing so fast and I love that I can rely on one of my favorite brands to stay with me for years to come! The brand is truly evolving and growing just like us! #BabyMagicEvent
*This is a sponsored post but all comments and thoughts are my own.
Join the Club... The Little Foodie Club!
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Being a mom of three I know how hard it is to get kids of all ages to eat healthy. That’s why I am so in love with Little Foodie Club. This baby food delivery company takes the guess work out of introducing solid foods to your baby. Which is challenging in and of itself. I mean where do you start? Make your own, buy store bought purées? Well, trust that obsessive foodie, mom and internationally acclaimed food writer and journalist, Kerstin Kühn, has done all the work for you!
Kerstin was inspired to create this company while cooking magical purées for her daughter, Maxine. With that inspiration she has created a 21 Days to Solids plan that helps you introduce your baby to solids with a new flavor each day. Look at the gorgeous colors and packaging!
There is an assortment of savory and sweet flavors ranging from sweet corn to broccoli to parsnip purees. According to Kerstin, fresh baby food is bright, colorful and diverse in taste and texture; qualities that not just stimulate a baby’s senses but also help to develop a preference for fresh rather than processed foods. Little Food Club pouches come labeled for each day in a perfect little serving size and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Starting your baby on solids doesn’t have to be stressful or confusing. With Little Food Club they make it fun and healthy from the very first bite! Gosh, why wasn’t this around when my kids were babies?!!
Little Food Club has two food plans, a 4 months plus and 6 months plus. The stuggle to get my toddler to eat healthy is a testament that he wasn’t introduced to all flavors as a baby. I gave him the premade squeeze packaged babyfood much more so than I did with the older two. It’s just a fact of life, I had less time to prepare his food and I am noticing that his appetite reflects that currently.
According to Kerstin, research has also found that variety is key in developing a healthy and adventurous palate. All Little Foodie products are homemade in an industrial kitchen in small batches. The fruits and veggies are sourced locally and are all organic, do not have any preservatives and are salt free. Plus, there are vegan and vegetarian options. This is why Kerstin started Little Foodie Club, to offer parents a better choice when it comes to feeding their babies. Can we all say, thanks Kerstin!!
Little Food Club’s diverse and unique range of baby purées takes care of a baby’s dietary needs and helps babies to develop a healthy and adventurous palate. If you don't have the time or inspiration to cook baby food (um, like me!) but want to feel confident that your baby is getting the best food possible, Little Foodie Club is a great option for you. Click here to learn more.
Little Foodie Club Quality Checklist:
✔️Organic
✔️We do not use any artificial ingredients, colorings, additives or preservatives and our purées are free of sugar and salt.
✔️Our purées do not contain soy, dairy or nuts (except coconut).
✔️All our food is prepared fresh from scratch in small batches.
✔️The food is flash frozen immediately after cooking, locking in all nutrients, freshness and flavor.
✔️We prepare and package all our food in a commercial kitchen in compliance with the highest possible health and safety standards.
✔️Vegan & Veg options
*This is a sponsored post but all opinions are my own.
Mom Trends Night Out with Parents Magazine
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This momma needed a night out (BAD!) and I was so excited to be included in this year’s #MTNIGHTOUT3 with Mom Trends and Parents Magazine.
I loved getting a chance to hit the town and catch up with all my favorite mommy bloggers plus meet one-on-one with leading brands for kids and baby. I got the inside scoop on products from some amazing hot brands and I can’t wait to fill you in on all the details. Plus, with the colder weather really hitting us hard in the last few weeks and the holiday season sneaking up on us, this is a must read!
Mom Trends partnered again this year with Meredith Magazines publishers of Parents, Parents Latina, Family Fun, Fit Pregnancy, and so many more! We were able to mingle with all the editors including Liz Vaccariello, editor-in-chief of Parents Magazine and fellow NYC Bloggers as well as connect about new products from brands like Boiron, Culturelle, JCPenney and VTech.
While snacking on the delicious sushi and wine we were treated to massages in the V-Tech Relaxation Station and then got creative making the most gorgeous DIY smoothies in the Boiron Smoothie Bar. How fun is that?! The bloggers and editors mix and mingled with each other and the brands. But what better way to start the evening than with stuffing our choice of diaper bags at the Culturelle Station. Which is where I headed first…
Every mom makes sure to have all the necessities for baby in her favorite diaper bag! So as I was loading up my top picks for baby’s needs, I grabbed the new Culturelle® Baby Probiotics. A line of probiotic products created to help build a strong foundation for your baby’s healthy growth and development. Having been trying probiotics for years and trying to introduce them to my kids, I realized how important it is start them early. Especially with the *#1 Pediatrician Recommended Brand, Culturelle.
With two specifically formulated options, Grow and Thrive & Calm and Comfort, these are sure to cover the needs of your little one and start them on a healthy track from the start. See my full Blog Article about Culturelle Baby click here.
Then I landed at the gorgeous Holiday inspired station fixed with a picturesque fireplace and festive pillows! I got my holiday style cap on and started putting together the perfect coordinating outfits for the whole family with the beautiful Peyton & Parker™ collection, exclusively at JCPenney.
JCPenney is excited to announce the launch of our new lifestyle brand, Peyton & Parker!
The brand is designed in-house by the JC Penny Design Team and sold exclusively in their stores and online.
This stunning collection is full of classic peices for women, men, kids and even home!! With looks that mix and match and bring style for the whole family. Did someone say holiday photo?!! Yes, these looks are picture perfect, understated and available now! Head on over to jcp.com/peyton-parker.
After getting my styling session on, I need to sit down and relax. And that’s exactly what I did at the V-Tech Relaxation Station. Being treated to a massage while learning about all V-Tech’s new products was a win win! I love the idea of entertaining the kids with toys but not all toys are created equal. And I have become more aware of this over the years. My kids love to play all sorts of games but why not give them a toy that has built in education and leaning? I actually am a HUGE fan of their products so I was excited to see their latest creations. Yep, I had my pencil and paper already writing up my kids Christmas lists!
VTech is a world leader in developing high-quality, innovative educational products that enrich children development and make learning fun! I also was excited to see some products for older kids. One of my favorite items was the KidiBuzz Phone that actually allows kids to send texts, voice messages, photos, drawings and more! It uses Wi-Fi and can help kids stay connected to their parents (or an approved list of contacts) and encourges safe online interactions. This is perfect for my older kids who need to stay connected while they are out on playdates or birthday parties.
After all that fun, I need to refresh so I finished up at the Boiron Smoothie Bar! Where we were able to incorporate our own ingredients to make the perfect healthy drink! They even had edible flowers for garnish!! But what I loved the most was seeing the wide range of products. I have been using Boiron products for years. It was the first treatment I used on my little ones when they were small for cold symptom relief and I was so excited to get the scoop on all their products. Boiron is the largest manufacturer of homeopathic products in the world. Providing family friendly products. You’ve probably heard of their most popular product for flu relief, Oscillococcinum. Our favorites are the line of cough and cold relief medicines including Chestal and ColdCalm. So if you want to be prepared for this flu season you should definitely check them out. Oscillococcinum is best used at the first sight of flu symptoms so you should have it handy in the medicine cabinet. And the best part is that these homeopathic medicines do not cause drowsiness or sleeplessness. There’s no risk of overdose and they won’t interact with other medications, herbs, or supplements. Boiron’s medicines also do not contain any of the ingredients questioned by the FDA for use in children under age 4. Visit boironusa.com for more information.
This is a sponsored post but all thoughts are my own.
Culturelle Disclaimer -
*#1 Pediatrician Recommended Brand Based on a 2016 survey among pediatricians recommending a kids probiotic brand
House Calls With Dr. Kulich
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With the chill in the air and flu season right around the corner, I thought now is a good time to introduce you to my favorite at home pediatric doctor, Dr. Kulich of Kids House Calls. He makes house calls everyone! Yes, you heard correctly. He comes to your house…
I can remember so clearly the first time he came for a visit… It was a blistery cold winter night and the snow was falling. It was late in the evening and I was getting all the kids ready for bed. I knew Brent wasn’t feeling well but after taking his temperature I panicked. He was burning up and I needed help. But I thought how can I take all three kids, in their pajamas nonetheless, out in this storm and to the ER. I remembered I had a friend who used Dr. Kulich in my building and I actually had called him in the past but never took the plunge and booked an appt. But this time was different.
After a brief chat about what was going on, about the family and about my location Dr. Kulich agreed he could make a visit that evening. I felt beyond lucky and as a mom with a sick baby, just so relieved. He was finishing up his appointment at another apartment downtown and would be over within an hour and a half. Yep, he was coming to help me! Help Brent…
The stars aligned that night and he treated Brent for a double ear infection.
Dr. Kulich is a Board Certified Concierge Pediatrician committed to providing the highest quality pediatric urgent care for your children in the comfort and convenience of your own home.
His practice is conveniently called KidsHousecalls and it is the most established, reliable and reputable Pediatric House call service in the New York Metro area. Dr. Edward Kulich is a Board Certified Pediatrician who practices concierge medicine, and is available 24/7 in the comfort of your home for primary and urgent care. Experience the quality and convenience that so many New York families have grown to depend on.
I love having the privilege to call him our family doctor and he is very quick to respond to text messages and calls. Having the comfort of knowing your child’s doctor is there for you 24/7 is simply a blessing. For more information or to contact Dr. Kulich click here!
2018 Back-to-School Bash with Mom Trends
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It's almost that time of year again! So get the backpacks ready and layout their favorite outfits because the new school year is about to kick off!
We are all in a bit of denial about it over here at my house but I know I need to start planning. We are heading out for over two weeks and when we get back, yep, school will be starting.
That is why I was so excited to attend the recent annual Mom Trends Back to School Bash! It got me up to speed on all the latest and greatest for my littles ones for this school year and with so many great brands and products on hand they walked me through each step of the way. #MomTrendsSchool
As a busy mom of three I was running to get to the event and didn't have time to eat dinner so I headed straight to the Jarlsberg Cheese station where Chef George Duran from the Food Network cooking up some delicious grilled cheese sandwiches. We even got to spin a wheel to see what would be added to our sandwich! So much fun and I have to admit it was probably the best grilled cheese I've ever had! What a perfect way to inspire my packed lunches this school year. I know the kids will appreciate that!
Then I spoke with the woman from Stonyfield one of our favorite organic yogurt brands. They just launched a new on-the-go snack pack perfect for packed lunches. The packs have pretzels and yogurt for dipping. This concept is one of my favorite things. I know my kids will love this treat at lunch time and the cafeteria will be buzzing.
With all the yummy treats I needed something to wash it all down and I was delighted by the delicious juices by Natalie's Orchid Island Juice Company. They even paired it with a little splash of champagne! Who would have thought?!
Then a few mom's and I sat down for a relaxing manicure by my favorite at home spa service, Maniorpedi. This brand offers the best manicures and pedicures in NYC in the luxury of your own home or office. Just book your appointment online and sit back and relax, they will do the rest!
Once I was fed and well groomed, I got enjoy a lovely kiddie fashion show with all the latest style trends for back to school. I just loved all the looks by the Tea Collection. This brand has been a staple in my kids wardrobes for years and I just loved seeing all the new looks for the season. Plus the little models were just adorable! And when the weekend hits and it's still 90 degrees out, SNAPPERROCK has you covered with this super stylish swimwear that is also UV 50+.
Now to pack up that backpack! All kids need help staying organized and what better way than with the cute and practical gear from Avery. I know Brinkley will love the fun prints! Want to assure they won't loose all this new stuff? Well, we love the personalize labels from Mabel's Labels. These labels work on everything from books and binders to water bottles and lunch boxes. Even inside their shoes! #Momtip!!!
Need a new printer? Me too... Next up was the trusted Epson brand printer. Now with a cartridge free model. HOORAY!! No more stressing about low ink. With all that work coming in and projects not to mention book reports! I need a new way to help them get the best product of their work back to the teacher! Can we all shout A+!!
Now that the lunch boxes and backpacks are all ready to go! Let's not forgot that heading back to school can come with some qualms. Like the dreaded lice check. My kids like to call it the Lady Bugs who come and check out their hair. Well, if this happens to your little ones the first thing to do is use Vamousse. It is safe and non toxic and offers a one-and-done mousse to rid your sweet little one of those nasty little critters.
This event was amazing and even more so because they partnered with Kids in Need Foundation to help children in need get a backpack filled with essentials. Just $25 can help, I know I donated! Click here to get involved too.
Lastly, to keep all that precious cargo safe, we received these super cute Lock Stars from Hasbro. These little locks are perfect for kids and are also collectable! They can wear them, play with them and come with two locks! What a great idea!
This is a sponsored post but all opinions are my own.
Summertime Fun at Liberty Science Center
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The Liberty Science Center is one of our FAVORITE family fun day trips around NYC. A place where kids are inspired by the pure fun of science and technology. I was so excited to be able to treat my kids to this special event and check out all the fun new exhibits they have to offer!
The day began at the popular outdoor Dinosaur Dig Exhibit inspired by actual fossils discovered by America's favorite paleontologist Jack Horner (AKA the guy that inspired the Jurassic Park movies!). We put our feet in the sand over looking the Hudson River and NYC skyline. They handed out soft bristle brushes to everyone and let us discover over 60 fossil replicas. The kids loved learning how to be real paleontologists, just like Jack Horner himself! Is your little one as obsessed with Jurassic Park as mine are?! Well, we found T-Rex bones, gaint teeth and even a nest of Maiasaura eggs. A must see before it closes Sept. 3rd.
Now onto the Grossology Exhibit where you'll unearth the science behind all things gross about the human body! What kid doesn't think burps are funny! Brent loved sliding down the stomach and I found Brinkley and her friends sniffing all the bad body odors! So fun and icky! But the kids loved every second of it leaning so much along the way. My favorite was the giant game of Operation that let you put larger than life sized internal organs and bones into the correct areas. The kids would have been happy to stay there all day!
But we ventured out eventually to Arthur's World for a much more polite exhibit focused on the classic storybook scenes featuring a kid sized kitchen where Brent pretended to make breakfast and set the table in the Read Family kitchen. They loved playing teacher in Mr. Ratburn’s classroom but the best was the tent set up for spooky stories! Every area is so hands on and I loved watching the kids go from one corner to the next touching and testing each section.
If that wasn't enough the kids wondered on to the next area called the Block Party, which is situated between exhibits, where they were encouraged to engineer their own fun using large foam blocks to create the playground of their liking. Similar to the Imagination Playground right near my own neighborhood in lower Manhattan! The kids built their very own fort and even a slide, of course.
Finally, the group headed down to the afternoon showing in the beautiful and did I say MASSIVE Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium to check out the Immersive Visualization of the Orion Nebula. As they say, when it comes to planetariums, size really does matter! With state-of-the-art technology you'll feel like you are right in the middle of space with the vastness of this full-dome movie. You'll get to travel into the heart of the Orion Nebula in a way never seen before. Fun for all ages!
So if your family is getting board from all the downtime or if you just need to get their brains working again amongst all the summer fun, then head over to the Liberty Science Center to explore STEM concepts, test their imaginations and just have FUN!
The Grossology Exhibit and the Planetarium are available for an extra fee.
This is a sponsored post but all comments and opinions are my own.
Guide to Packing the Perfect Camp Bag
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Are your kids heading off to camp? Not sure what to pack? Here are my top picks and all my favorite items I'll be packing in my daughters camp bag this summer!
All direct links to these items below!
- Camp Shoe by Native- No need to pack extra water or pool shoes! These are all in one! Sneakers and water shoes. Perfect for all the activities your little one will be enjoying this summer! These rubber shoes are packed with style and comfort. My kids love them and I love them because they are so easy to throw on now matter where we are heading. They are breathable and have arch support. So many patterns and colors to choose from.
- A see through bag! I just love this idea because I'll know at a glance what she'll have as she's heading out the door. Forget to pack something? No problem, you'll be able to quickly go through the checklist. Everything gets lost in the bottom of those gigantic backpacks! Not anymore!
- Hair ties- This item may not be on all the lists that the camps send home but trust me! They will need these and tons of them during the summer. Going from pool to running around in the heat with all the sports and fun. You'll little one will at some point need a hair tie to two and I just love these fashionable ones and know my daughter will too!
- Sunblock & Bug repellent - If you little one is heading out into the grass and woods you'll love this new sunscreen that also has bug repellant built in! How cool is that? My only advice is to also pack a sunscreen for their face. I haven't use this on her face and wouldn't recommend it. This is great for arms, back and legs. This is my opinion! Also, the girls will love the one with glitter!
- Full Coverage Swimsuit - This swimsuit is a must! I love the full coverage and if your kids are like mine they never like to put the rash guard on over their suits. This all in one style offers both a swimsuit and rashquard in one! No excuses kids!
- A fun portable fan - is a necessity for those long summer days. I love this one and don't forget to stock up on batteries and check daily because the kids love running these all day long and they eat up the battery.
- Sun resistant beach towels - are amazing! I love the idea that they'll be getting more sun protection even when they are drying off which is when they need it most! The sunscreen has worn off in the water and they haven't yet reapplied as they sit and dry off after splashing in the water. Plus there are many cute patterns to choose from.
- Cool Mist Water Bottle - This water bottle is perfect because it has a built in spritzer on top! Get a cool mist and hydration with this one! And it's light weight.
- Wet Hair Brush - The perfect wet hair brush! My daughter has long hair and it get knotty! I love this fun colorful detangling brush for my kids.
Don't forget to pack all these summer necessities for your little camper!
My Top Picks for the The 2018 NY Baby Show!!
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Calling all new mommas!!! I have all the info. on some of my favorite products from this years New York Baby Show and it will not disappoint!! Check out this amazing RV that they brought in to support nursing moms. All aboard! Here, moms can feel comfortable breast feeding or pumping. There was so much to do and see. From trial classes to expert speakers and even a test track for testing out your favorite stroller!
I loved seeing the products from all the top baby brands. Each blogger brought their favorite picks to the Mom Trends Blogger Broadcast Booth for a full review of the product. How fun and informative! See my videos below! They are also on my YouTube page linked here.
I just love working with Nicole Feliciano from Mom Trends who organized the blogger lounge and broadcast booth! She and I were having fun outside the Blogger Lounge where all the bloggers were enjoying a relaxing lunch from the yummy Boston Market while their children got to play. Check out Brinkley exploring the activities and she loved seeing and playing with all the cute babies! We call her the baby whisperer. She just loves all things BABY!! What a great helper.
Also, the bloggers were treated to this generous gift bag. Look at all the goodies! These are all a must-have for a new momma.
Products evolve and the creativity this year was mind blowing! It can be hard to decipher what you need for your new little one. And you will need a lot! But here are just a few things that I recommend and wish I had years ago when my older two were little. But you won't have to wait! Check them out now!
La Petite Creme - The French alternative to baby wipes- Never need a baby wipe and diaper ointment again. Really, what have I been doing for all these years? This product definitely caught my eye! With only 5 all natural ingredients and will save you a step in diaper changing... LOVE IT!!
Next up, the Uppa Baby Minu Stroller - The quality of umbrella strollers has totally changed over the years. This lightweight, easy fold stroller is stunning. The quality is gorgeous and this product is worth investing in. Plus, it features a large storage basket underneath, reclines and has a strap for easy transport once collapsed down. I had to much fun testing it out on the the Stroller Test Track. It passed all the obstacles with flying colors. The best part is that it's super easy to fold down and can be done one handed. We all know we need that extra hand for 500 other things!
Savor - A keepsake box that is a perfect gift for any new mom! They will have a place to put all the little things they'll want to keep over the first few years of the baby's life. And I have never seen anything so cleverly designed. I absolutely fell in love with this at first sight. This hidden gem is designed to look like a book on a book shelf. It will blend into any office or living room. Easy to keep handy and to be cherished over the years. The library section will keep all of the special memorabilia organized for years to come.
Any questions on these products or anything you saw at the NY Baby Show please leave a comment below and I will happily share my opinion!
This post is sponsored but all opinions are my own.
Review of the Amber Teething Necklace by Jenn Sanders, marketing assistant at Baltic Wonder
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Baltic Wonder, a company that is dedicated to the health and well-being of infants
"Jenn Sanders currently works as a marketing assistant at Baltic Wonder, a company that is dedicated to the health and well-being of infants. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and outdoor adventures"
Review of the Amber Teething Necklace
I am a military spouse. My husband goes out on his ship for several months at a time, so I’m
basically a single mom too.
One deployment, my baby Julia was having a hard time. She just started teething, and couldn’t
take the pain.
I didn’t know what to do. I asked her pediatrician, but I was just given the whole, “Give her
Motrin and Tylenol every 6 and 4 hours.” I really can’t stand that every time there is something
wrong with her, all they want me to do is give her pain relievers.
I was talking to one of my friends at The Little Gym about it, and she told me about the amber
teething necklace. I’m so glad she did.
Since she told me that Baltic Wonder sells the highest quality amber necklaces, I figured I’d buy
one from them. The website https://www.balticwonder.com/ was really easy to use. I just picked the
necklace I liked best, added to the cart, checked out, and in about two days, I had it.
The necklace was packaged well. I put it on Julia as soon as I took it out of the package. It was
light, and had a beautiful amber color to it.
Inside of the box, there was a certificate of authenticity. I really like that! It made me feel like I
made the right choice in getting the necklace from them.
What Happened With the Necklace
I was afraid to leave the necklace on at night because of strangulation risk, so I took it off while
she slept and put it back in the morning. Unfortunately, I wasn’t too good about putting it back
on, so I kept forgetting.
I decided to put it on her wrist instead, and that worked out much better. She kept it on all night
and day without a problem.
After I was able to keep the necklace on her consistently, it started to work around the third day.
Julia didn’t have the fever, drooling, and whiney behavior she had before using it. By a week,
she was back to regular self. I even noticed that she was acting much calmer, which is another
health benefit of amber teething necklaces.
Of course, I thought it was because she was over her latest tooth, so I kept the necklace turned
bracelet on her to see what would happen with the next tooth.
It’s been a year now, and she hasn’t had any teething problems since then. It’s been wonderful
and I am so thankful for the amber teething necklace.
My Recommendation
If you want to try an amber teething necklace, I recommend the Baltic amber teething necklace
from Baltic Wonder. It’s great quality and looks beautiful.
Don’t worry about your baby doing anything with the necklace. Julia didn’t even notice it was on
her, and it didn’t bother her being on her wrist. I think it’s because of how lightweight it is, and
that it fit perfectly when I doubled it around her wrist.
I hope everyone who tries it has as much success as I have had with it.
-Jenn Sanders
Out on the town at Mom Trends Mom's Night Out 2.0
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I was so honored to be included in this years Mom Trends Night Out 2.0. Every mom deserves a night out every once in a while not just to escape the rigorous nighttime routine of getting the kids to bed, but more importantly to reconnect with other moms and of course getting some much needed W&R (wine and relaxation)!!
Mom Trends partnered again this year with Meredith Magazines publishers of Parents, Family Fun, Fit Pregnancy, and so many more! We were able to mingle with all the editors including Liz Vaccariello, editor-in-chief of Parents Magazine and fellow NYC Bloggers as well as connect about new products from brands like New Balance, Munchkin, Jif, Visit Williamsburg and Swaddle Me.
This night out did not disappoint! Mom Trends left no stone uncovered when it came to pampering and activities! We were treated to foot massages by ManiorPedi, makeup touchups by GlamSquad and served the most delicious mix of appetizers all while sipping on a little vino. Sounds too good to be true, I know! But the best part were all the fun activities each brand set up for us to get to know them and their products! Such a great way to break the ice and have some fun...
New Balance- I don't know about you, but I live in my sneakers all week long. I just can't think of a better way to run around town than in my comfy sneakers. That's why I just love New Balance so much because they know this and have designed this sneaker just for that! From morning dashes to school drop offs to errands, then back to school and all the after school actives like soccer & gymnastics, this brand has got you covered in style and comfort. I just love this gorgeous pair they gave us called the Fresh Foam Arishi by New Balance. This sneaker is super-cushioned and uber chic. Plus they are ultra-cushioned and lightweight. I had the best time trying them on with one of my fav downtown momma, Suzanne Cohen from GothamLove. And to make sure these feet were made for walking, ManiorPedi was giving us the royal treatment with foot massages! Yes! Just what I needed.
Munchkin- Who doesn't need a great diaper pail when you have a baby in diapers! Those pails are the only thing keeping your baby's beautiful sancuarty of a nursery from well, you know, smelling like a dirty diaper! The Munchkin Step Pail features a self-sealing system to lock out odors. This stylish design will go great in any home. It's clean, modern and above all works perfectly to keep your home smelling fresh! Plus with Give A Tree Program they will plant a tree with every diaper pail sold. I loved how they set up a fun DIY Floral Arrangement station. Check out what we made!
Jif- Peanut butter is a staple in my house. Probably because I craved peanut butter throughout my pregnancies so all my kids naturally love it too. Jif is a great snack option to get a healthy protein in them but I also serve it for lunch for at least two out of the three kids on a daily basis. Luckily Brent's school just informed us that there are NO peanut allergies in class so I can send him to school with his favorite lunch, a PB&J!! At the Jif station moms were encouraged to spread their knowledge and compassion by writing on a blackboard words of encouragement and the ways their families are making a difference. I just love that! Enter “Imagine If With Jif contest.” Now through Oct. 20, you can share your idea of how to make the world a better place for our kids, and you could win up to $30,000 to make that dream a reality.
Visit Williamsburg- I remember visiting Williamsburg, VA when I was younger. I vividly remember churning butter and being amazed at every corner. It was even the first time I rode a roller coaster, at Bush Gardens Amusement Park. I'll never forget my older sister who was so scared and didn't want me to go on it! But I had the time of my life and can't wait to share those memories and create new ones with my family. Not only known for its fun rides and old fashion ways, Williamsburg is filled with amazing restaurants, wine tastings (which they had a tasting for us to try and it was delish!) and numerous outdoor activities like trails and golf courses. Um, when are the kids off from school next? I want to plan our next trip here asap! I already planned out exactly what we will do with this fun game they had set up. They had a large board with a blank slate which we were able to fill up with everything we want to do on our visit. My families trip is all mapped out and we can't wait!
Swaddle Me- If you haven't heard of the Swaddle Me brand you are missing out. Out with the old fashion swaddling blankets and in with this fresh modern take. Swaddle Me original swaddle saved me when I had my first son, Brycen. I remember wandering around the large crowded baby store while I was pregnant thinking what is all this stuff? Lucky for me I picked out a pale green and yellow gender neutral Swaddle Me. It was not until weeks later did I realize what a great buy I had made that day. I truly don't know what I would have done without this product. Now Swaddle Me is launching a couple of new products like the Swaddle Me Kicks. It is a legs-free swaddle that is perfect for warmer weather. It swaddles in a three-point harness while still mimicking the cozy space of the womb and it snaps at the bottom makes for super easy middle-of-the-night diaper changes. Then there is the new SwaddleMe Footsie which features pajama-like footies to keep a wee one’s toes extra snuggly on those cold fall & winter nights. And, finally, Swaddle Me has launched three new gift sets, The Essentials Gift Set, The Baby Bath Gift Set and the Little Lovey Gift Set, perfect for any mom-to-be! For more information on their products check out my full post.
Thank you to the entire team over at Mom Trends for a super spectacular Mom's Night Out! I had such a blast and can't wait for our next night out!
This post is sponsored by Mom Trends, Meredith Corporation, New Balance, Munchkin, Jif, Visit Williamsburg and Swaddle Me..
Swaddling Made Easier with Swaddle Me...
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There is nothing better then a good night sleep. When you have a new baby, sleep is limited. You rely on those few hours between feedings to get the bit of sleep you can.
That is why I always swaddled my babies when they were little. I know it helped soothe them at night. Making them feeling warm and cozy, just like being back in the womb. And I have to admit, I never did get the hang of swaddling with a blanket. Folding the blanket and tucking it just right in the middle of the night when you are exhausted, was just too difficult. But with the products by Swaddle Me, that guess work is totally eliminated. They are super simple and efficient; swaddling without the hassle.
As if it were even possible, they have made the original Swaddle Me even better. With the new legs free swaddle called The Swaddle Me Footsie which is perfect for nighttime and nap time. It allows the baby to have their legs free in a footed pajama (see picture below!)so they can wiggle and kick. It is the first swaddle I have seen that you can use while in a swing or bouncer. Because it allows you to strap them in properly with a three-point harness. Genius! This is a great option to keep baby warm in the colder months.
If you are in a warmer climate or are just looking for something to use during the summer months, they have also launched the new Swaddle Me Kicksie. Which is a legs free swaddle. It can also be used with a three point harness but still mimics the coziness of the womb. Which helps them stay asleep longer! Who doesn't want that, right?! The best part, it is made with a snap bottom so those middle of the night changes are quick and easy.
I have so many friends and family having babies and I truly think a Swaddle Me is a necessity for any nursery. With Swaddle Me's Gift Sets you can give the gift of sleep! I know they will appreciate this gift! Swaddle Me has three new gift sets available The Essentials Gift Set, The Baby Bath Gift Set and the Little Lovey Gift Set.
The prints are so adorable and stylish! My fav, the new aztec arrows print in light grey. This would have gone perfectly in my all grey mod nursery! From modern to nautical and everything in-between, they have a print that's perfect for your little one.
Have a story about how much you loved your Swaddle Me? Share below or tag @Downtownchicmoms and @Swaddleme in your post!
This post is sponsored by Mom Trends, Meredith Corporation and Swaddle Me.