Wordless Wednesday

Andre's 1st Halloween 2006

Welcome to Lazy Town Giveaway

Well you know how much I love the KidToons program at the movie theaters. They are affordable, kid friendly matinee films that are held every 2nd weekend of the month. With the $3.50 price, who can beat that? Coming to theaters in November, its Welcome to Lazy Town!

Synopsis:
In “Welcome to LazyTown,” the inquisitive, adventurous and playful Stephanie comes to live in LazyTown and meets a zany mix of townspeople, including the world’s laziest super-villain, Robbie Rotten. Fortunately for Stephanie, LazyTown is also under the watchful eye of Sportacus, an athletic, super-fit, SuperHero, who runs, jumps, flips and flies to the rescue in his futuristic AirShip. Sportacus always manages to save the day and help the kids of LazyTown foil Robbie’s latest lazy schemes.

 It looks like its going to be another great weekend at the movies. KidToons currently has a BOGO offer that is good at any of their nationwide theaters.. Limit 1 per family.

One lucky reader will win a Welcome to Lazy Town DVD!

Disclosure: Giveaway ends 11/8/12. Winner has 48 hours to reply to email. I was not compensated for this post. BoyzRuleOurWorld is not responsible for shipping. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

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Hurricane Sandy Slams the East Coast

By now our tri-state area has been hit by Hurricane Sandy. The severe wind and torrential rain has been off and on all day. Its supposed to be at its worst this evening and by the sound of it I think it is. Living in Miami years ago, I never experienced a hurricane. Who knew that I would be through 2 in New York city? Its been a rough 24 hours trying to keep sane with everyone stuck home. Tomorrow is another day of no school or work. I'm just thankful that my family & friends are all safe. If you're in Sandy's path, stay indoors. Eat, sleep & enjoy each others company! You never know when you'll get this "mandatory" time together again.

Iron Man 3 Trailer!

Who's excited about seeing Tony Stark again on the big screen? Iron Man is one of my fave action heroes. I can't wait for Walt Disney's Iron Man 3 release May 3, 2013. So for now check out this sneak peek on Itunes!

Halloween Inspiration by Shutterfly

If you're looking for Halloween inspiration, check out Shutterfly's Storytelling tab! They offer everything from photography tips to design ideas.

• DIY Trick-or-Treat Bags: Score loads of sweets on Halloween by creating a customized candy sack with a photo, print or child's artwork.
• Halloween Riddle Reveal Plates: Kids will eat their veggies to learn the answer!
• Tips for Taking Pictures at the Pumpkin Patch: A few fun ways to capture the outing.
• Top 10 Halloween Photos to Take: Don't miss any big or little moments on the Night of Fright!
• Check out our sweet Halloween video and share it with your audience.

I have always been a loyal customer of Shutterfly. They have done my wedding album, holiday cards, and so much more.  Grab all your memories & create a beautiful photobook today!

Disclosure: I received a Halloween tote bag & coupon for a photo book. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

Disney Announces "Limited Time Magic" In Times Square

In Times Square, the heart of New York City, Disney unveiled its 52 weeks of "Limited Time Magic". Of course since Disney doesn't do anything small, they announced it with a few of their favorite celebrities like Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, Pluto, Merida & Goofy.
They erected ice sculptures in front of the Marriott Marquis. There I am in front of Cinderlla's ice castle, a 25 foot tall, 9 feet deep and 15 feet wide. They used 45,000 pounds of ice to assemble it, brick by brick. There were also other ice vignettes representing precious moments in life. Of course Cinderella needs her carriage to head to the ball.

Next year visitors can expect "Limited Time Magic" throughout the park for a limited time only. Each week will be a different magical experience. Here's a sampling of what is expected:

• Independence Week: It's red, white and blue as Disney Parks salutes America with a 4th of July Fireworks Party for an entire week, with patirotic lighting bathing the Disney castles on both coasts. Mickey Mouse appears in his patriotic finest and guests will find special USA shirts, Ear hats and other limited edition souvenirs.
• During "Long Lost Friends Week" lesser known Disney characters will move from the shadows to the spotlight with meet and greets on both coasts. Photo opsps with characters include Flik, Clarabelle Cow, Remy, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum will surprise and delight guests. And Disney guests will even have the chance to vote online for which characters they want to see.
• Pirate Week: Why talk like a pirate one day when you could celebrate these scalawags all week long? The adventures of Jack Sparrow come to life like never before during a bicoastal buccaneer bash in which Disneyland and Walt Disney World become pirate palooza; pirate bands, pirate meet and greets and more.
• Dapper Dans Sing Boy Bands: Dapper Dans, the iconic quartet from Main Street, USA will add a special finale to their show, claiming the title of the "Original Boy Band" and delivering a medley of hits from One Direction, NSYNC and the Backstreet Boys.

There are so many more surprises that Disney has in store for you. In to keep up to date with announcements you can follow along at Disneyworld.com, or Disneyland.com 

Disclosure: I was invited to attend a breakfast. All opinions are 100% my own.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk

Today was the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk. It was held in all the boroughs in New York City. I walked with my favorite women of Mommy's Mingle and their team. We helped raise money together for this great cause. It was a beautiful day to walk amongst thousands of people at Orchard Beach. Some were survivors, some were walking in memory of loved ones and some like us just believe. We believe it needs to end NOW.

Always remember to get your yearly mammogram and do monthly self breast exams. If you walked this year, kudos to you! If not, then please consider making a donation or walking next year. It can make a difference to help save a life.

If you would like to make charitable donation to our team please log on here

Losing a First Tooth

There are many highlights of our kids lives that we try to keep as a memory like their first step, first word or first day of school. Andre was quick with all those but when it came to his teeth growing out as a baby, I felt like I waited an eternity. He didn't start getting his teeth till he was almost a year old. So I figured that when the time came for him to loose those baby teeth, it wouldn't happen that quickly either. Every one of his friends have lost about 2 or 3 teeth already. He was questioning why his teeth weren't falling out yet and assumed it was because he drinks a lot of milk. I liked the reasoning of it. Finally a few weeks ago, he realized his bottom tooth was loose. Then the following day he realized the tooth next to it is loose as well! You must know how exciting this is for a 6 year old. Its about up there with Santa Clause coming to town.

Finally one tooth did fall out while he was asleep! He woke up in the morning and he felt it in his mouth. How he didn't swallow it I have no idea but am thankful he didn't get hurt.

I have been stressing about how much the Tooth fairy should leave under his pillow. I remember just getting a dollar and feeling like the richest kid on the block. But as I posed the question on Facebook, I got responses like $20, $10 or even a toy! Wow these kids are lucky these days! I did decide on an amount and he was happy about it. He didn't make such a big deal over it as I thought he would. However he's showed his toothless grin to about anyone that will listen to him. Now we're just waiting on the next guy to fall out and I'm sure they will all follow.
I still have the tooth & will place it in my keepsake box along with his other firsts and memories that I will forever cherish.

Wordless Wednesday - Sun Sets in Vieques

With cooler weather on its way, I remind myself of the warm sun in Puerto Rico

A Toast to Survivors, A Breast Cancer Luncheon

Yesterday I was invited to a special luncheon hosted by The Moms, Martini and the beautiful actress Kristin Chenoweth. It was a "Toast to Survivors", a breast cancer awareness celebration.
Pink was the color of choice for our hostesses. Martini served their sparkling mini Rose's with a straw! We were served a healthy & delicious lunch by the chefs at Alison & Eighteen.

It was a very heartfelt event. All the guest speakers are breast cancer survivors with stories of courage. The Moms Melissa Gerstein's own mother Debbi Musen is a 16 year survivor. Since her diagnosis, she has since become an advocate in raising money for the cause.
Dr. Elizabeth Chabner Thompson has a family history of breast cancer. Though she was never tested positive for the disease, she chose to have a mastectomy. From her experience she developed
BFFL Co., Best Friends for Life. They assist in creating a warmer patient experience through their BFFL bags and accessories.
Another story of survival was heard by Dee Dee Ricks. She currently has a documentary,
The Education of Dee Dee Ricks that follows her on her journey of a high powered Wall Street exec to breast cancer survivor and advocate. From the profound words of a Harlem physician "Poverty should not be an offense punishable by death" it empowered Dee Dee.
Finally as if these women weren't enough, we also heard from the awesome Kristin Chenoweth. She may be petite but she holds a powerful voice. She spoke of being adopted into a loving family and her mother's bouts of cancer not once, twice but four times. She looks at her mother as strength. Don't ask why me, ask "why not me" as her mother would say. Kristin's charity Maddie's Corner  was given a $10,000 donation from Martini which will be allocated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and Right Action for Women.

This event was one of my favorites. To hear their personal stories of triumph after despair, is encouraging. Its a testament that women are powerful and we can survive anything. For that this is a toast to them!

I want to thank The Moms, Denise Albert & Melissa Gerstein, Martini, and Alison & Eighteen  for such an amazing afternoon.

Disclosure: I was not compensated. This is 100% my own.

Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted DVD #GIVEAWAY

In conjunction with the DVD celebration this weekend at Central Park Zoo (see previous post) 

1 lucky reader will win a DVD!

Enter using the Rafflecopter form below.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. BoyzRuleOurWorld is not responsible for delivery of prize. Contest ends 10/23/12. Winner has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be selected.

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Wholesale Halloween Costumes Review

Can you believe its October already? In just a few months the holidays will be upon us & then a new year! Firstly, one of my son's favorite holidays is of course Halloween. We were talking about costume choices in the summer, eagerly trying to figure out what the new action hero he was going to choose. Initially he wanted to be a WWE wrestler, but there aren't many clothing options for those, you know? I don't think I can see Andre trick or treating in some speedos. Thankfully, we were able to find a costume that was fully clothed & a hero through Wholesale Halloween Costumes.

Andre really wanted to be some sort of ninja. We didn't want him to wear the basic black costume, so as we scrolled through pages of costumes online, he finally was able to narrow his choice down. He chose to be a Special Ops Ninja. I really think the idea of carrying a sword excited him the most but when he put on his costume he went into full Ninja mode! Look at the fierceness in those eyes! Scary!!
I ordered the ninja costume in a size medium (8-10). My son is quite tall for his age and he's only 6. It was a little long in the sleeves but otherwise it fits him well, leaving enough room for layering underneath in case its cold. The pieces are easy to assemble, This costume comes with a top, pants, mask and belt. The top is fitted with an attached hood, and is in a camouflage pattern, as is the rest of the costume. The top does have a black sash over it tied with a black belt. The pants features two small holsters on the bottom to hold weapons. There is a black ninja mask included that covers the nose and mouth areas of the face. My only gripe is this face mask. It is way too wide for his face as you may be able to see in the pictures. Its made of plastic. I doubt he will keep it on his face which is no big deal for him. But I was kind of disappointed with it. I thought maybe they should've made a mask out of the same breathable material as the costume. I think it would've worked just as well.

My overall experience is very positive. The costume is of great quality. Their prices are the lowest that I've seen online. If you haven't purchased your costume yet, I suggest you check out the large selection that Wholesale Halloween Costumes has online. You won't be disappointed!

To help with your Halloween purchase please check out their website

www.WholesaleHalloweenCostumes.com

Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted FREE Event

On behalf of Paramount Pictures Blu Ray & DVD release of Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted they are hosting an event at Central Park Zoo (where it all began) on Saturday October 20th at 10am. There will be face painting, arts & crafts, balloon animals and a free wig to the first 100 children!

Mark your calendar & enjoy a day seeing one of New York City's iconic landmarks with the kids. As you walk through the zoo, you may just find someone singing     "Afro Circus, Afro Circus"

Stay tuned for a DVD giveaway!

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post.

Event is FREE with zoo admission.

Wordless Wednesday

The inspiration behind BoyzRuleOurWorld

Chuck E. Cheese's kicks off "Chucktober" with FREE tokens!

You know it’s almost time for fall when Chuck E. Cheese’s starts talking about free tokens, fun dance moves and costumes! The family entertainment leader is excited to announce some new additions to its annual Chucktober celebration.
Parents and children can log onto www.chuckecheese.com to print out this activity, which features a series of props kids can wear into stores with their costumes this October. Attached to the activity is a coupon families can bring to participating Chuck E. Cheese’s locations during the month of October to receive 10 free tokens.
In addition to the free tokens, kids and parents can enjoy Chuck E.’s latest single, “Them Bones.” The festive song also has accompanying dance moves, which families can participate in during the daily ticket splash and the special candy splash on the weekends. Once again, Chuck E. Cheese’s is encouraging families to email pictures and videos to memories@cecentertainment.com, where some might end up on Chuck E.’s Facebook page or the special Chucktober Pinterest board!

Paramount's FUN SIZE Advanced Screening NYC

FUN SIZE is a teen comedy centered on a sarcastic high school senior, Wren (Victoria Justice), who is eager to distance herself from her dysfunctional family by going off to college. Before that can happen, Wren's mother, Joy, insists that she watch her little brother Albert on Halloween night, so Joy can go to a rager with her much younger boyfriend. When Wren gets distracted by an invitation to the party of the year, Albert disappears into a sea of trick-or-treaters. Frantic to locate him before their mother discovers he's missing, Wren enlists the help of her sassy best friend April, as well as Peng, an aspiring ladies man and co-captain of the debate team, and Peng's best friend, Roosevelt, a sweet nerd whose crush on Wren clouds his better judgment. This unlikely foursome embarks on a high-stakes, all-night adventure to find Albert, crossing paths with outrageous characters every step of the way.

 There will be a special advanced screening held on Saturday 10/20/12 at 10:30am at a Manhattan theater. This movie is rated PG-13 and will be a perfect date for you & your favorite teen!

To grab your free screening tickets to FUN SIZE  log on to www.gofobo.com

Enter code

MBLOGS1JUA

 Tickets are on a first come first served basis.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. BoyzRuleOurWorld is not responsible for tickets.

Enjoy Fall Classes at New York Health & Racquet Club

New York Health & Racquet Club (NYHRC) recently held a September soiree on a rooftop at the Kimberly Hotel to showcase their new Fall class schedule. NYHRC is New York City's original full service health and fitness facility operated since 1973. They offer over 600 weekly classes at 10 extensive fitness locations. The club fosters a positive attentive environment where all are welcomed and made comfortable in their own skin and with their own personal goals.

They have a variety of classes that will intrigue everyone's fitness goals. Here are a few highlights of the fall classes:

• Aqua Zumba: An insanely popular dance craze that fuses Latin rhythms with easy aerobic moves that takes the action to the pool
• Ballroom Dance: comprehensive dance program including Latin, standard ballroom and more
• HIPHOP Sculpt: a fusion of classic sculpt and stretch to the rhythms of Hip Hop
• HIPrana by Slavica: vinyasa yoga with a fusion of belly dance movement
• Kango Boot Camp: high intensity interval training workout that incorporates rebound shoes to increase cardio fitness through sports conditioning and plyometric drills
• Zumba: dynamic fitness program that fuses Latin rhythms easy to follow moves,sculpting and resistance training 
• Piloxing: dance based fusion class that blends the power of boxing with the core control of pilates for strenght and definition

 Here is one of NYHRC's trainers showing us how intense the Kango Boots are! I couldn't quite capture his exuberance but he was really moving on those things. 

To find the schedule of one of these classes or others please check out New York Health & Racquet club's website.

WWE Presents RAW

While my nephews were growing up they were heavily into wrestling. I remember taking them to WWE matches quite a few times. It's an intense experience like no other. I admit I was not really into it but who can resist seeing The Rock in some trunks? My nephews have shared their passion for wrestling down to my son & younger nephews now. Boyz being boyz of course they love it! My son even wanted to be John Cena for Halloween. I've been thinking of taking the younger ones to a WWE match so they can have the "live" experience. I'm excited to know that WWE Monday Night Raw will be heading back to the IZOD center in NJ in just a few weeks!

WWE Raw returns to the IZOD Center for the first time in 2 years with one of the biggest nights in Raw's 19 year history, as John Cena takes on CM Punk for the WWE Championship in the largest Lumberjack match in WWE history!
And for the first time ever World Heavyweight Champion Sheamus defends his Championship against 7" Big Show in a Last Man Standing match! 

This is going to be one raucous night in New Jersey! I know my son will be thrilled to see John Cena in action. Hopefully I will get to see The Rock once again strut his stuff. Can you smell what The Rock is cooking?

Tickets can be purchased now through Ticketmaster. 

Disclosure: I was not paid for this post. I will receive tickets to attend the show. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

How To Train Your Dragon at IZOD

So I'm late with this post but I had to still get it out merely because of how amazing this show is. I went to the opening night last week for How To Train Your Dragon at the IZOD center in New Jersey. I didn't know what to expect but I had read & heard rave reviews about it.
Well the reviews don't fulfill the excitement that this show brings. Kudos to Dreamworks for pulling off such an incredible 2 hours. The boyz were amazed. I thought they may get a little scared because of the dragons and the fire but being boyz they were brave.

The creators of the show did an excellent job in making the audience feel like we were living amongst the Vikings, flying on dragons & climbing rocks. The battle between the dragons was well played and a visual delight. I really have nothing bad to say except I'm so sorry if you missed it this weekend in the NY/NJ area! If you're in any other states where the show will be swooping by, I suggest you get out & check it out. Your kids will love it as much as the movie. Adults will love it for the sheer magic of it.
To find if the show is coming to a city near you check out their site here.

Disclosure: I was not paid for this post. I was given tickets for opening night.

Wordless Wednesday

This is what love is about..FAMILY

KidToons Presents Chuggington:Traintastic Adventures #GIVEAWAY

I love taking my son to the movies. We try to attend as many screenings as possible because the price in New York City is just outrageous. I do love when Kidtoons host a film series that my son would enjoy. At $3.50 a pop who can beat that price?

This month, Kidtoons is featuring Chuggington:Traintastic Adventures!

Synopsis:
Join the Chuggington crew for six fun-filled adventures in Chuggington: Traintastic Adventures! Watch as Brewster tests a speedy new invention, Koko's stunt training saves the day, Wilson gets stuck on the track lift and everybody competes in a big chug-of-war! Young trainees will learn to ride the rails of life alongside their Chuggington pals in this upbeat and fun episodic feature.

Chuggington will ride through your local theater October 13th & 14th at Noon.

One lucky reader will win a Chuggington prize pack which includes:

1 Chuggington: Traintastic Adventures DVD
1 Chuggington: Wash Time For Wilson Play-A-Sound Book
1 Chuggington: Wilson and the Paint Wagon Leapfrog Storybook
1 Chuggington: Carry Along Activity Traveler Set
1 Chuggington: Placement
1 Chugginton: Trading Card
1 Chuggington: Map
RETAIL VALUE: $45+

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. 

Book Now! Spa Week is Back!

I've come to realize since I've become a mom, that I no longer put myself first. I prioritize my son & husband before myself. I guess as a woman we all tend to do this. Its in our nature, but as women we all need to take some time for ourselves. That's why one of my favorite times of the year (besides my birthday) has to be Spa Week. When else can you get to indulge in $50 dollar treatments at some of the best spas in your area?
Spa week commences October 15th till October 21st. If you've never experienced any type of spa treatments before, then I highly suggest that you book an appointment. There are over hundreds of spas that participate in this event. They select 3 of their best treatments to offer at this affordable price. From past experience there are some spas that tend to extend their "spaweek special" for longer. Just inquire while booking to ensure the rate.
I hope you get to indulge yourself, maybe do a couples massage too. You get to spoil yourself with your hunny minus the kids! Enjoy & Relax!

Discover Baileys Coffee Creamers

In my household we are HUGE coffee drinkers. We can't start our day without a cup. We definitely love putting some flavor into our coffees. When I attended Blogher this summer, I was so happy to stop by the Baileys Coffee Creamers booth. They had such a delicious display of flavors. It definitely was hard to choose just one! I did decide that Brown Butter Pecan was my favorite for the day! Baileys creamers are silky smooth and rich in flavor. It definitely arouses your senses in the morning!

Here’s where the deliciousness begins — seven irresistible ways to enjoy the silky creaminess of BAILEYS in your coffee. Breakfast, office, afternoon or after dinner. It’s a new way to enjoy coffee — and the renowned flavor of BAILEYS — whenever you want.
Flavors:
- French Vanilla
- Hazelnut
- Caramel
- The Original Irish Cream
- Crème Brulée
- Toffee Almond Cream
- Chocolate
- Fat Free French Vanilla
- Fat Free The Original Irish Cream

Any coffee lover will agree that Baileys is a must have on your shopping list the next time you go to the grocery store. Look out for their new seasonal flavors Pumpkin Spice, White Silk & Spice and Gold Cheesecake to hit shelves soon. Baileys creamers can be found in the refrigerated section at a variety of retailers. You can see if your local market carries it here.

To help with your shopping trip, 10 lucky readers will each win 1 coupon for a COMPLIMENTARY non-alcoholic Baileys Coffee Creamer in your choice of flavor. 

 Please leave a comment below telling me your favorite Baileys flavor.

Don't forget to leave your email address in the comment

Ten winners will be selected using Random.org on Sunday,October 7, 2012. (U.S. Entries only.) If I am unable to reach the winner within 48 hours, an alternate winner will be selected. Your entry is only valid if you include a way for me to contact you (either an email address in your comment or on your profile). Disclosure: I was not paid for this post. I received coupons to purchase product. All opinions expressed are my 100% my own.