I can't believe its the last day of June already. It has been such a busy month for us with birthdays, weddings, death in the family, crossing off an activity on our bucket list and ending of the school year for Andre. I now have a 7 year old heading to 2nd grade. It was a great month but boy am I tired! Now its time for summer camp & new routines. I foresee a busy summer ahead so buckle up!
Wednesday was his last day at school. We are sad to see that several teachers & staff have decided to not return next year. Thus is the life of a charter school but we are grateful that they were there for the beginning of Andre's education. They have definitely made an impact. They won't be forgotten either.
We will miss you Ms. Song & Mr. Hendricks!
Friday was Andre's big 7th birthday! I have always had a birthday party for him but this year we decided not to. We still celebrated (for 2 days) LOL Ever since Legoland Westchester opened up this spring, I knew that Andre would love to party there. Initially I wanted to rent a party room but I felt the packages were quite expensive. Instead I opted to invite a few friends from school to meet us there in the morning to play. It may sound expensive as well, but I had a great coupon that offered a Buy 1 Adult ticket Get 1 Child FREE. There's no redemption code so you can literally use it again. I used various family members email address & computers to buy them. I saved money & I was able to pay for the parents as well.
The kids had a blast! As soon as we walked in, Andre hugged me tightly and exclaimed "This is the best birthday ever Mom!" I was touched & relieved. I knew it would be a good day for him.
The day before my husband's birthday, his grandfather passed away. He was the patriarch of his family and a great man. He was 97 years old so he did indeed live a full life. One we can only hope to as well. It was hard saying goodbye and returning him back home to Haiti. Our hearts are heavy but we know he's where he has wanted to be for a long time.
Nou manke ou Granpapa
There's so much to talk about that I can't put it all in this one post. So stay tuned for some giveaways and reviews. Sorry for being so late! Also look out for my new look!
Disclosure: All opinions expressed are 100% my own
As a mom, I never really feel like I get a break and I only have 1 child. I don't know how families with multiple kids do it. All I ever hear is "Mom", "Mommy", "Denise!" when I get home. Remember those old Calgon commercials "take me away!". She needed a time out and so do I and I'm sure you do too.
So we're both in luck. June 12th is National Time Out Day. A day to remind ourselves to take a "time out" from our hectic schedules to take a break and relax. What better way than heading to McDonalds for an iconic Big Mac or one of your favorite lunch or dinner extra value meals.
There is only one Big Mac. This classic burger is made with a double layer of sear-sizzled 100% pure beef, special sauce on a sesame seed bun and topped with melty American cheese, crisp lettuce, minced onions and tangy pickles. The Big Mac paired with our World Famous Fries and your choice of an icy soft drink is the perfect way to take a time out, the McDonald’s way.
There are more than 600 McDonald’s restaurants, owned by over 100 franchisees, located throughout the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut Tri-State area
Make sure sometime during the day, you take a moment. Put yourself on time out and don't feel guilty about it. We all deserve a break! Head out to McDonalds sans kids and enjoy a meal!
Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I received extra value meal coupons
I was first introduced to this Swedish brand a few months ago at a Momtrends travel event. I was so impressed by the colors, fabrics and style. I couldn't believe that I had never heard of them. I definitely could envision Andre in some of their fab clothing.
Take advantage of the sale NOW!
Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post.
Have you heard of the Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas? They are an acclaimed cinema eatery chain known for combining dinner, drinks, films and events all under one roof. They are currently located in Texas and Missouri but they are opening one right in Yonkers, NY this summer!
With school almost being out for summer. I think one of the hardest things to do is trying to keep kids occupied for 2 months. "I'm bored!" "I'm hot!" is all you hear from them. Keeping them entertained can be costly especially in this city. When it's humid out, I like to find areas where there is free air conditioning. One of the ideal places is the movie theaters.
Starting July 12th through September 1st, they will have a FREE family screening at 11am daily. This is known as their "Kids Camp." It has been very successful at the other Alamo locations and has become a fan favorite.
Please find a list of titles below
June (Not available in Yonkers location)
MUPPETS TAKE MANHATTAN
SPEED RACER
CASPER
HAPPY FEET
July
LAND BEFORE TIME
BEE MOVIE
THE SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS MOVIE
STUART LITTLE August
SPY KIDS
MONSTERS VS ALIENS
MADAGASCAR
MUPPETS IN SPACE
I think I will definitely take advantage of a FREE movie this summer with Andre.
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema isn't your typical movie theater. It's an experience for the movie lover. Check out this video from the CEO & Founder Tim League.
I can't wait for the opening of its newest location in Yonkers. To keep up to date on the latest developments in Yonkers you can like them on Facebook and follow on Twitter.
GIVEAWAY
One lucky reader will win a $20 food voucher
Please use the Rafflecopter form below. First entry is mandatory. All others will not be counted if it is not done.
Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.
One of our favorite things to do as a family is watch movies. The prices to go to the theaters in New York City however has become so outrageous that we really don't go unless it's a must see. Thankfully we have a subscription to Netflix where we can stream movies online.
What I love most about Netflix is their assortment of Disney titles, including the classics. They also offer a variety of picks from Disney Jr. Since we've been back home from our trip to the Disney Social Media Moms conference we have been missing the spirit of Disney. With Netflix I can stream one of my all time favorite movies 101 Dalmations or my son can watch some episodes of Phineas and Ferb. Either way Netflix makes family time easy, fun and accessible!
I have the app downloaded on all our electronic devices. It's on our Ipad, Itouch, Android phones & tablets. I love that it's pre-installed in our Blu-Ray DVD player as well. We are always ready to stream and never miss a moment to relive our favorite Disney titles.
A commercial-free, all-you-can-watch Netflix subscription is only $8 per month, providing great fun at an extraordinary value for you and your entire family:
Streaming is easier than you think. Download the free app on your iPad, click on the Netflix app on any gaming device – and you’re in business
Netflix is so simple to use that kids are streaming their favorites more than ever on mom and dad’s tablets
Netflix Kids offers movies and TV shows for children 12 and under in one spot
We work with Common Sense Media to provide ratings, reviews and information so parents can easily make choices for their kids
GIVEAWAY
I am excited that Netflix has offered 3 readers a FREE 3 month subscription to Netflix! Now you and your family can stream your favorite Disney movie at home or on the go!
Please use the Rafflecopter form below. First entry is MANDATORY. All other entries will not be considered if this is not done.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center is hosting their second adult fans night next Thursday June 6th with a "Powers On" Super Heroes theme!
Following up the successful debut of its monthly Adult Fans of LEGO (AFoL) Night, the recently launched LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester is “powering on” with its next adults fan night by featuring a Super Hero theme for the event on Thursday, June 6 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (admission is from 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.) at Ridge Hill (One Ridge Hill Boulevard) in Yonkers. The new monthly event is only open to adults (18 years and older) and allows guests to experience the attraction while enjoying special events and activities tailored to adults.
The adults only evenings take place the first Thursday of each month (with no event in July as the first Thursday falls on July 4) and feature tailored activities and events that Adult Fans of LEGO will enjoy. The June 6 event will include a LEGO building contest to construct the “Tallest Building” (because Super Heroes need something to leap over); a Wonder Woman-inspired “Lasso Tossing” contest; and a “Best Super Hero Costume” contest (for the truly brave), each offering special prizes. The evenings also include a cash bar with beer, wine and select mixed drinks. Future events will be developed around specific themes and feature special guests and exhibits.
Of course, guests will also get to enjoy the attraction’s range of educational and interactive experiences, including its 4D cinema, two LEGO amusement rides and MINILAND – the venue’s signature re-creation of landmark locations and buildings throughout Westchester County and New York City, made entirely out of LEGO bricks.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester is a $12 million, 32,300 square-foot indoor attraction featuring more than 3 million LEGO bricks, geared towards children ages 3-10 and their families. Its range of educational and interactive attractions will include hands-on play areas, a 4D cinema, master classes led by Master Model Builders, two LEGO amusement rides, special party rooms and MINILAND — the venue’s signature re-creation of landmark locations and buildings throughout Westchester County and New York City, made entirely out of LEGO bricks. To purchase tickets and annual passes, or for more information, visit www.LEGOLANDDiscoveryCenter.com/Westchester/. For group sales call 866-243-0770. Follow us at www.facebook.com/LDCWestchester and www.twitter.com/LDCWestchester. LEGOLAND Discovery Center is part of the Merlin Entertainments Group.
DATE: Thursday, June 6
TIME: 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
(admission is from 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.)
PLACE: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester, Westchester’s Ridge Hill
(park in the North Otis Drive Garage and bring parking tickets to admission for discount validation)
When we arrived at our hotel in Disney, we had a meet and greet scheduled with Winnie the Pooh. I was so excited because I'm a huge Piglet fan! It was a preview event for their new Itunes app Winnie the Pooh Wonder & Wander.
Andre & I got a chance to meet Pooh. It was going to be one of many character sightings that weekend. I just love the huge smile on my son's face (mine too).
As we wandered through, we previewed so many different products that were all Winnie the Pooh. There were adorable figurines, toys and apparel.
I had no idea that Winnie the Pooh had its own ECO friendly baby line of detergents and body care. It was a fun way to kick off what was going to be an amazing weekend for my family. My son got to even play with some legos while listening to story time.
As we left the event, we were given an incredible goody bag. What's even more incredible is that I have one to share with you!
Winnie the Pooh Tumbler with Straw
SRP: $9.50
Retailers: Disney
Winnie the Pooh Shampoo & Body Wash by Daily Renewal
SRP: $4.99 each
Retailers: Diapers.com, Amazon, Babies “R” Us, CVS, Walgreens (Sample sizes are included in the gift bag)
Baby ECOS Laundry Detergent
SRP: $6.99-17.99
(Sample size is included in the gift bag)
Retailers: Ecosbaby.com, Kroger, Sam's Club Save Mart / Lucky
The Winnie the Pooh Movie
SRP: $34.95
Retailers: Disney Store
Winnie the Pooh Tee for Women
SRP: $19.95
Retailers: Disney Store
When I was invited to the Disney Social Media Moms Conference I was beyond thrilled. I didn't know what to expect. I just knew that I was honored to have been one of the selected few that got to attend this year. When I received an email about doing a 2 mile Disney Fun Run with Biggest Loser Winner Ali Vincent, I jumped at the chance not even thinking that um I don't run. I don't even exercise regularly. It's only 2 miles, right? I can walk that easily living in New York City.
As the days approached, I kept telling myself that maybe I should start preparing my body for the run. Then I heard you can do a walk/run so I was fooled myself to believe that that wasn't so difficult. My husband kept asking me "Are you sure you're going to be able to do it? It says its 2 miles in 26 minutes. That's quick." "No problem" I would say but secretly I was terrified.
When we arrived at Disney World, I was enthralled in the excitement of it all. It was my son's 1st time in Walt Disney World so I was anxious for him. I totally put the run in the back of my mind that day. When I went to bed that night, the fear kicked in. Maybe I should just cancel & not show up. What the hell was I thinking? I could really injure myself. All I could remember was BSM Media's Maria Bailey reminding us that night that to be at the bus stop by 5:45am or she will come knocking on our doors. I can't disappoint Maria or be known as a flake. I made a commitment to Disney & to myself. I am going to do this.
So here I am at 5 sumthing that morning getting ready. Definitely double thinking about not showing up which if I was back home, I probably would have done. I was a "newbie" at the Disney SM Moms conference & I wasn't going to be known as a quitter.
Divina from Dancing Hot Dogs took this pic of me before we set off on the bus. There were so many others that were dressed in sequin tutu's and ears. They looked beautiful and fun!I felt under dressed for the occasion.
The bus took us to the ESPN Complex located on the WDW resort. It was amazing to be on the same grounds that professional athletes have trained & performed. The adrenaline was kicking in full speed. We were almost ready to begin.
The highlight of the morning had to be the uber energetic Ali Vincent and her mom Bette Sue. They are a riot together. Ali cheered us on and handed out her pink rubber empowerment bracelets. She was so down to earth that I was excited to have her on our walk/run group. Then it was time to run! We started by doing a one minute run then alternate with a one minute walk. At first I was doing okay. I kept up and was in the middle of the pack. We ran through ESPN's track field then the baseball field. It was amazing to have those huge lights shine down on us. I felt like I was doing my victory lap. That's when I realized I began to lag behind and soon enough I was at the tail end. My shins started hurting and I so wanted to stop & jump into the golf cart that was following us. I couldn't run it anymore even though Ali was yelling "run!" Then Maria Bailey jogged along side of me. I was out of breath, embarrassed and tried to keep up with her. I had met Maria the year before at the Disney Social Media Mom's conference in Long Island and have worked on a few campaigns for BSM but I knew she didn't remember me. She speaks with hundreds of bloggers. This woman is known in the blogasphere as an avid runner and here she was keeping pace with me! You know the saying no one gets left behind? Well Maria was the epitome of that. She stayed with me and another runner that was lagging behind. We both were not runners but we made a commitment to Disney & more importantly to ourselves to complete this. Maria kept saying "You're doing great" and just kept us in conversation. Nicole Brady completed the run but decided to come back to push us along. I was encouraged. The end was near and Ali came back to make sure we ran the final stretch. And we did.
Ali pushing me to the end
My legs were sore, my heart throbbed and I was out of breath, but I did it. I completed a 2 mile walk/run in Walt Disney World. When can I ever say that? I was damn proud of myself. I didn't quit because of fear or the embarrassment. I knew I would be the last woman standing but I that day I didn't care. I wanted to make my family proud of me. Damn I wanted to make myself proud of me. I think I did both. Some of that magical pixie dust that you hear about in Disney definitely was sprinkled around on me that day and I was thankful.
Amazing group of women!
I want to personally thank Maria Bailey, Nicole Brady & Ali Vincent. There were moments that I did not think I would make it. Each of you gave me the determination & drive to push forward. I thank you for that. Your support will not be forgotten.
Disclosure: I paid a conference fee and attended the Disney Social Media Moms Conference. I received discounted room rate & other perks to enhance our Disney journey. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.
I
participated in this campaign for One2One Network. I received a free
copy of the album to facilitate my review. By posting, I am eligible for
incentives. All opinions stated are my own.
The Canadian born singer, Michael Buble has been around for a few years now. He caught my eye with his "Everything" video which I thought was so visually entertaining. I was heart broken for him when he & actress Emily Blunt broke up but was elated to hear that he found love again with his wife Luisana Lopilato. They are awaiting on the arrival of their first baby together. So his heart is full of love of all sorts which makes the release of his new album "To Be Loved" appropriately titled and expected.
The songs on this album will if anything fill your heart with love & appreciation for those around you. Michael's tone & sex appeal puts you in the mood. Who doesn't want to be in love? My favorite songs so far are Close Your Eyes and I Got It Easy. Both are very inspirational.
These are good times for the singer, who is about to become a first-time dad. He sounds like a man in love with life. "I wrote Close Your Eyes
about my wife and about the power of all the women in my life—my
sisters, my mom, my grandma and all women in general. Let’s face it,
where would we be without them? I Got It Easy, another
original, is basically a song where I count my blessings and is a
reminder to me and everyone to appreciate all the good parts of life. I’m a very lucky guy and I never want to forget it."
Recently Michael took to the New York City subway system & sang on the platform. I wish I would've caught him there since I'm always on the 2 trains! It would've been awesome to hear him live. Check out this video clip of him in action
How down to earth he is!
"To Be Loved" should be added to your collection. It will make great music for a dinner with your loved ones. I'm sure there are classics that everyone will love.
Growing up I went to the theater to see Star Wars. As a young child, I was mesmerized by this outer galaxy filled with storm troopers, droids (not the phones) and Luke Skywalker. I particularly loved R2D2. I always wanted to know how they controlled his motions & his beeping noise that were interpreted as speech.
While we were in our conference session at the Disney Social Media Moms on Friday, we were interrupted by Obi Wan Kenobi aka Gary Buchanan. He introduced us to Ashely Eckstein, actress and voice of Ashoka Tano in Star Wars. She spoke of her love of sci-fi films and lack of clothing for women. Sci-fi isn't only for the boys hence she created her brand Her Universe.
We were then over taken by storm troopers! Several ran through the room announcing that we needed to exit the room immediately. Now I don't think these troopers have ever faced a room full of social media mavens. Rather than listen, we all ran to try to snag a "selfie" with a trooper. They didn't make it easy by constantly moving or ordering commands. I have to say I felt like I was in a George Lucas film. Hey George how about "Attack by a Blogger?"
We finally emerged from the conference room only to be greeted by a zooming R2D2. We were all in love. Now we've all been seen our share of celebrities but its something special to take a pic with one of the lead characters in a multi-million dollar franchise. Especially a non human one. I was in awe.
Cute huh?
Disclosure: I was an attendee of the Disney Social Media Moms conference. All opinions expressed are 100% my own. I am not obligated to attend or write about my experience. I received no monetary compensation. Gift bags were given through out the trip.
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
A few weeks ago, I attended the SITS Girls Mini Bloggy Boot camp in New York City. There was an info session held by Invisalign. I was not familiar with their product so I was very intrigued. Growing up I was fortunate to have straight teeth. Unfortunately my siblings weren't. They needed braces but my mom couldn't afford to get them. My husband had to get braces as an adult. He would feel uncomfortable not only because of the limits placed on having braces but the unattractiveness. He would always have to watch what he ate and have frequent monthly visits to get the wires tightened. Now that our son gets yearly dental check ups, I'm hoping he takes after me and won't become a metal mouth.
One of their doctors gave a brief presentation at the event. He had current patients there as well to discuss what they liked about using Invisalign. I know if my husband had the option to use Invisalign he definitely would've done so. It just makes more sense as an adult to choose this option.
Here are some key benefits to using Invisalign:
Invisalign are clear aligners that are used to straighten teeth without the use of wires or brackets
Less discomfort & pain
Used in treating adults and teens
You can eat anything! They are removable
Treats several cases such as overbite, crowding, underbite, spacing
The length of treatment depends on the case and is determined by the treating doctor but an average invisalign patient wears it for about a year. The cost of treatment can vary between $3500 - $8000 depending on where you reside. If you're interested in seeing if you qualify for Invisalign, you can take the online Smile Assessment. Not all dentists or orthodontists are qualified Invisalign providers. You can use the Doctor Locator to find one nearest you.
Have you or someone you've known used Invisalign? And if so, what was their experience?
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
The day has finally arrived that we are heading to Disney World tomorrow. I've known for a few months and it took so much out of me to keep the secret from Andre. I held on for as long as I could and finally burst open last week. He definitely was excited, but not having to go to school for 2 days helped as well.
When I received that email from Disney inviting me on this journey, I will admit I wasn't going to go. Me? I got invited? How? Why? I just felt that my blog wasn't up to par to the many that I've read or bloggers that I have met. I have to squeeze in time to write since time is what I lack from working a full time job. After speaking to my husband about it, he convinced me. I had to seize this opportunity. Disney wanted me there. I was selected amongst hundreds. There has to be something in me that I want to know more about.
Now that the day is only a few hours away, I feel so blessed. We haven't arrived yet and we've received so many great surprises already. From the beautiful luggage by American Tourister, to the introduction to the new Disney interactive app, Story we are truly going to have a magical weekend. What's better than spending Mothers day weekend where fantasies come true.
I am honored to be amongst the best of the best this weekend. From all the tweeting and face booking these past few weeks, I feel like I've become a member of such an elite group. I look forward to the learning and excitement Disney has in store for us. I am especially excited for all the new friends that I and my son will make this weekend. Look out for all the pics & status updates! Follow me on this new journey!
Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.
Today was picture day & the kids were allowed to wear anything they wanted. I'm proud to say that Andre opted for business casual. He wanted to wear a tie because he sees his dad wear one everyday. It made me realize he's becoming independent and that he has a great role model in my husband.
LEGOLAND®
Discovery Center Westchester to Open its Doors to the “Big Kids” with
Launch of Monthly Event Specifically Geared to Adult Fans of LEGO® on
May 2
***
Exclusive Evenings for Adult LEGO Fans to Take Place First Thursday of Every Month
[April 24, 2013 - Yonkers, NY] – In sharing the unique and interactive experiences offered at the just launched LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester with adult LEGO® fans, the indoor attraction today announced the launch of its first monthly Adult Fans of LEGO (AFoL) Night, taking place on Thursday, May 2 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (admission is from 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.) at Ridge Hill in Yonkers.The
new monthly event is only open to adults (18 years and older) and
allows guests to experience the attraction while enjoying special events
and activities tailored to adults.
“As a children’s attraction, it is LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester’s policy to only admit adults who are visiting with a child,” said Chris Mines, General Manager of the attraction.“Our monthly
event is an ideal solution for providing access to adults who grew up
playing with LEGO bricks, are still passionate about all things LEGO and
would like to experience the attraction.”
Beginning
with the event on May 2, the adults only evenings will take place the
first Thursday of each month (with no event in July as the first
Thursday falls on July 4) and feature tailored activities and events
that Adult Fans of LEGO will enjoy, including a LEGO building contest
with special prizes being awarded, as well as a cash bar with beer, wine
and select mixed drinks.Future events may also be developed around specific themes or feature special guests and exhibits.
Of
course, guests will also get to enjoy the attraction’s range of
educational and interactive experiences, including its 4D cinema, two
LEGO amusement rides and MINILAND – the venue’s signature re-creation of
landmark locations and buildings throughout Westchester County and New
York City, made entirely out of LEGO bricks.
Tickets to the adult evenings are available online at www.LEGOLANDDiscoveryCenter.com/Westchester/ for $18 (plus tax); and at the door the day of the event from 7-7:30 p.m. for $22 (plus tax).For more information, call 866 243-0770 or visit the evening’s Facebook event page at on.fb.me/XU3L9Y.
LEGOLAND
Discovery Center Westchester is a $12 million, 32,300 square-foot
indoor attraction featuring more than 3 million LEGO bricks, geared
towards children ages 3-10 and their families.Its range
of educational and interactive attractions will include hands-on play
areas, a 4D cinema, master classes led by Master Model Builders, two
LEGO amusement rides, special party rooms and MINILAND — the venue’s
signature re-creation of landmark locations and buildings throughout
Westchester County and New York City, made entirely out of LEGO bricks.Advance tickets and annual passes to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester are available online.To purchase tickets and annual passes, or for more information, visit www.LEGOLANDDiscoveryCenter.com/Westchester/.For group sales call 866-243-0770.Follow us at www.facebook.com/LDCWestchester and www.twitter.com/LDCWestchester.LEGOLAND Discovery Center is part of the Merlin Entertainments Group.
Last year all I heard was that dinosaurs invaded the Secaucus, New Jersey area. I was so intrigued but never made it over there with the boyz. It was on my bucket list of "must do" this summer. I finally made it to the Field Station: Dinosaur a few weekends ago. I have to say I was quite impressed.
We were advised to dress comfortably and have good walking shoes. The station is completely outdoors. We were fortunate that it was not a hot day but I can imagine in the summers you will get a tan.
Upon entering the park we could hear dinosaurs roaring. This excited us immediately. Once we checked in we were given a passport which we could collect stamps throughout the park at different stations. As we walked through, we saw life like dinosaurs that moved their heads or swagged their tails. It kinda freaked out my little nephew but you could tell he was rather impressed. My son & I enjoyed approaching each dinosaur & trying to decipher the pronunciation of their names. The dinosaurs were so life like. It simply was amazing.
As we walked up & down hills, there were different stations that we were able to sit under tents to relax and the kids had activities to do. There was a fossil dig site where kids can grab some tools and go on a search for fossils. The boyz seemed to love it especially since there was sand involved!
Another fun spot for the kids was the "What color is your dinosaur" station. The boyz sat for awhile & colored away on some sheets donated by Crayola.
There is so much to do at Field Station. We weren't able to see everything because we were short on time which the boyz were disappointed about. So I did promise to return with them again. Take a trip to New Jersey & check out the dinosaurs. Be prepared to be there for a few hours. Just remember to bring suntan lotion & dress comfortably. Make sure you check out the Dinosaurs Live! 3D movie as well.
Field Station is currently only open on weekends. Summer hours begin on June 27th which they will be opened everyday from 10am - 6pm. For more information you can visit them at http://fieldstationdinosaurs.com/
Disclosure: I was given passes to facilitate a review. No other compensation was received. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.
I recently attended the Big Toy Book first annual BabyPalooza event. What an amazing day learning about all that is new for the little ones. I was given Vtech's Innotab 2 Baby which I was so excited to have my 2 year old nephew test it out for me. Little did I know that my older nephews would enjoy it just as much!
Vtech designed the Innotab 2 with infants on their mind. You may be asking why infants? But why not? The generation now is all about technology and I'm a true believer in starting them out early, especially if they are going to get educational skills from it.
The Innotab 2 has some amazing features. When I logged in, I was able to create a profile for my nephew and take a photo to create his very own avatar. It also come with a gel bumper that will protect the tablet from any scratches or bruises. We all know how kids love to toss their toys once done! The older boyz enjoyed playing with the coloring and drawing activities. They also found how to put a pic of themselves on a mermaid's body!
My niece enjoyed the learning games with her son testing his spelling & pronunciation skills.What's great is that there are hundreds of additional apps that can be downloaded through Vtech's app store.
Vtech has another hit with this product. It's a great starter tablet for the little ones if you don't want to run the risk of them cracking your Ipad. There are tons of programs that will keep them busy as they continue to grow. You can follow your child's progression and know what he/she is learning.
Vtech Innotab 2 retails for $89.00 Age 12 months - 9 years. For more information on Vtech's products visit www.vtechkids.com, Facebook or follow @VTechToys on Twitter
Disclosure: I received the above product in my swag bag. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of the American Cancer Society.
It makes me sad to know that cancer has been in my life for as long as I can remember. I have had many dear family members either pass away or beat this horrendous disease. When I was given the opportunity to spread the word on the American Cancer Society's 100th birthday I jumped at the opportunity.
My first introduction, if I can call it that, to cancer was when I was about 12 years old. My grandmother had stomach cancer. I was very close to her and my grandfather. They helped raise me while my mom was a single mother with 3 other children to raise. My grandmother was Chinese and spoke little to no English, so I became fluent in Mandarin in order to communicate with her. I have memories of when my grandfather would dab medicine in her belly button because she would have this lump there. I never understood why he did that because back then we never discussed what was going on. I just knew she wasn't herself. Then one day my mom got the call that she passed. I don't ever remember getting the chance to say good-bye or if I got to tell her that I loved her one last time. I think about my grandmother often. Since she departed, I stopped speaking Mandarin. I know a few words but I can't speak fluently. It's a block that I've placed on myself mentally & emotionally.
So there's no reason why I wouldn't support such a great organization like American Cancer Society. They will be celebrating their 100th birthday on May 22nd, 2013 and will continue to promote it till next year. They have grown to become leaders in the world fight to end the disease. Now that's a reason to party!
American Cancer Society has a research study called Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3) that will give us the knowledge on how to prevent cancer and save lives. They are aiming to enroll everyone by the end of this year. They want to make sure that if you're facing cancer that they will have help, shelter and a even a ride. We need to keep fighting for all to have access to quality health care.
Have a Happy 100th Birthday American Cancer Society!! Here's to kicking Cancer's Ass!
All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I am honored to have this opportunity to tell my story as part of the American Cancer Society’s 100th Birthday Celebration
Did you hear the good news? All My Children & One Life To Live are coming back tonight! How exciting is that for all die hard soap opera fans? I grew up on these shows so I was majorly disappointed when they were taken off the air.
The shows will premiere on Hulu starting at midnight on Monday April 29th and will also be available on Hulu+ (AMC + OLTL) and iTunes for on the go viewing. Since these shows are "off network" their content is more adult oriented and includes profanity and other material not appropriate for younger children. Basically, put the kids to bed before you indulge!
Show synopsis
All My Children revolves around the lives of the residents of fictional Pine Valley. For nearly forty years, this town has seen the trials and tribulations of its dynamic families. Now your favorite stories are back, and more dramatic than ever!
Plot outline Since 1970, the residents of All My Children's Pine Valley, PA -- including its most famous citizen, Erica Kane (Susan Lucci) have seen their fair share of scandalous hookups, feuds, and devastating murders. Pine Valley luminaries include resident hero Ryan Lavery (Cameron Mathison), Fusion Cosmetics maven Greenlee du Pres (Rebecca Budig), perpetual troublemaker David Hayward (Vincent Irizarry), funnyman Tad Martin (E. Knight), and the unforgettable romantic duo of Angie and Jesse Hubbard (Debbi Morgan and Darnell Williams).
All My Children actors include returning actors include Debbie Morgan as Dr Angie Hubbard, Julie Barr as Brooke English,Sal Stowers as Cassandra Foster, Eric Nelson as AJ Chandler, Denyse Tontz as Miranda Montgomery, Jordan Lane Price as Celia Fitzgerald, Ryan Bittle as JR Chandler, Eden Riegel as Bianca Montgomery, Cady McClain as Dixie Cooney, Ray MacDonnell as Dr. Joe Martin, David Canary as Adam Chandler, Heather Roop as Jane McIntyre, and Francesca James as Evelyn Johnson will Michael be returning once the soap moves online
Cast of AMC
Show synopsis One Life to Live follows the complicated lives of three main families: the wealthy Lords, the powerful Buchanans and the strong-willed Cramers. The quiet simplicity of small town living is often interrupted by the drama between them yet despite the struggles, strong family bonds keep them united.
Plot outline The good people of Llanview, Pennsylvania, lead complicated lives. In a town of questionable marriage ethics, teenagers grow up fast and fall in love quickly. The quiet simplicity of small-town living on the Llantano River is frequently upset by an over-abundance of multiple personalities who disturb the peace. Despite the jealousy, betrayal, and occasional baby-swapping, Llanview is where the Buchanan, Lord, and Cramer families struggle to retain the strong family ties that have always united them.
One Life to Live actors include Corbin Bleu as Jeffery King as well as returning actors Erika Slezak as Victoria Lord Buchanan, Robin Strasser as Dorian Lord, Tuc Watkins as David Vickers, Robert S. Woods as Bo Buchanan, Kassie DePaiva as Blair Cramer, Jerry verDorn as Clint Buchanan, Florencia Lozano as Tea Delgado, Melissa Archer as Natalie Buchanan Banks, Hillary B. Smith as Nora Buchanan, Kelley Missal as Danielle Manning, Josh Kelly as Cutter Wentworth, and Andrew Trischitta as Jack Manning. Recurring actors include: Sean Ringgold as Shaun Evans, Shenaz Treasury as Rama Patel, and Nick Choksi as Vimal Patel.
OLTL cast
So are you as excited as I am? Put the kiddies to bed early tonight and get ready for some juicy dirt! What's great is there are 30 minute episodes available each weekday, with a recap on Friday. So you don't have to worry about catching up if you miss an episode! You can follow along & chat with others through all media outlets. AMC
Disclosure: I am participating in a campaign from One2One Network and The Online Network. I have not received payment for this post. My participation makes me eligible for a prize drawing. All opinions stated are my own.
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