Netflix Makes Streaming Disney Easy #GIVEAWAY

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 Westchester #AdultFans

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.

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 http://on.fb.me/10ILdaW.

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)

One Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY

COST:                    $18 IN ADVANCE ONLINE; $22 AT THE DOOR

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post.

Wordless Wednesday

Bride walking to her groom

Wonder and Wander with Winnie the Pooh #GIVEAWAY #DISNEYSMMOMS

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!

Social Media Moms Conference Gift Bag Includes:

Pooh Plush 9"
SRP: $9.99
Retailers: Amazon, Babies"R"Us, Buy Buy Baby

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

Winnie the Pooh: Pooh's Secret Garden
SRP: $4.49
Retailers: Amazon, Target, Barnes & Noble

Winnie the Pooh Notecard Set
SRP: $12.50
Retailers: Disney Store

Winnie the Pooh Reusable Tote Bag
SRP: $ $6.49 each
Retailers: Amazon

Disclosure: I received the same gift bag. All opinions expressed are 100% my own

How I Survived the 2 mile Disney Fun Run #DisneySMMoms

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.

Michael Buble "To Be Loved" Album Review

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.

 

To Be Loved Track Listing:

1. "You Make Me Feel So Young"

2. "It's a Beautiful Day"

3. "To Love Somebody"

4. "Who's Lovin You"

5. "Something Stupid" (featuring Reese Witherspoon)

6. "Come Dance with Me"

7. "Close Your Eyes"

8. "After All" (featuring Bryan Adams)

9. "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You" (with Naturally 7)

10. "To Be Loved"

11. "You've Got a Friend in Me"  

12. "Nevertheless (I'm in Love with You)" (featuring The Puppini Sisters)

13. "I Got It Easy"    

14. "Young at Heart"

The CD is available now for purchase on ITunes and Amazon.

      

 

Wordless Wednesday - Miami Heat

Just a reminder to all my Knick fans

Wordless Wednesday - I Met a Droid #DisneySMmoms

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.

A Clear Choice to Braces - Invisalign #INVStraightTalk #AD

 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.

Disney Social Media Moms Conference 2013

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.

Wordless Wednesday - Independence

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 #AdultFansOnly

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.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post.

Field Station Dinosaurs Take Over New Jersey

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.