Globetrotting Mommy

All things family, fun or just plain fabulous!

Top 5 Tips for Seeing Frozen …

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Since my Tips for Seeing Frozen on Ice were such a hit, I’m back to share some tips for seeing Frozen on Broadway, one of the most popular shows in town. Read on for your chance to win two tickets!

Top 5 Tips for Seeing Frozen on Broadway and Ticket Giveaway

Top 5 Tips for Seeing Frozen on Broadway and Ticket Giveaway

For the first time in forever, Anna and Elsa are starring in a full-length theatrical Broadway production. This version of the popular movie about sisterly love wows crowds with a few new songs, awesome special effects, loveable characters and phenomenal singing. The St. James Theater has truly been transformed into a winter wonderland with falling snow, stunning sets and everyone from Arendelle including the adorable Olaf.

Photo Credit: Disney Theatrical Productions 

Although little princesses will want to see this one, I think it is best for kids 6 and up. For younger kids, I recommend sticking with Disney on Ice productions, Walt Disney World and Disney Land Shows and the awesome productions aboard Disney Cruises.

 Top 5 Tips for Seeing Frozen on Broadway

1) Take kids to a few live shows (think Pinkalicous, Annie Jr. Gazillion Bubbles) before seeing a Broadway production. Once you’re convinced they can sit and focus for extended periods of time while staying quiet you’ll all be ready for Broadway. Here are some of my favorite theatrical productions for kids.

2) Arrive early. New York traffic and Times Square streets can get very hectic so be sure to arrive extra early. You’ll want some extra time to grab booster seats and check out the souvenirs.

3) Make a pit stop before the show starts no matter what! The show is 2.5 hours which is a long time for little bladders. There is one intermission but bathroom lines are crazy long and you will be stressed about getting back to your seats in time.

4) Discuss Broadway etiquette in advance. Be sure to reinforce the rules about staying quiet and not singing during the show. Show your kids some YouTube videos from the show so they will know what to expect the characters to look like on stage. Not all characters look like their movie counterparts which may raise some questions.

5) Prepare for everything. Bring non-messy snacks and beverages as well as wipes, ziplocs and a few small non-electronic toys. If kids need to take a break from the performance, there are live feed monitors located in each level’s lobby so you won’t miss any of the show.

Prize Giveaway Time!

Photo Credit: Disney Theatrical Productions

 

Ready to win two complimentary tickets to Frozen on Broadway? Here are the official contest details:

Prize:

Courtesy of Disney Theatrical, prize includes two (2) complimentary tickets to select performances in early December (seat location and performance dates are at the sole discretion of Disney Theatrical Group). Prize tickets are only available for the following performances:

  • Thursday 12/6 – 7PM

  • Tuesday 12/11 – 7PM

  • Wednesday 12/12 – 7PM

Requirements:

  • Contest entrants need to follow @petiteseat and  @globetrottingmommy on Instagram and leave a comment on this Instagram photo. Note, Disney Theatrical Group and Petite Seat are not responsible for the promotion rules or for any other administration of the promotion. Prize does not include travel to or accommodations in NYC.

Contest Deadline:

  • Contest closes on November 8 at midnight EST and winner will be selected on November 9th.

Be sure to check out Petite Seat, a parent’s guide to theatre and live entertainment in the New York City area. Their website and Instagram provide listings of all the offerings in the area, along with information to help parents find the best shows for their families including age recommendations, potential plot sensitivities, experience tips, theatre logistics, etc.

Have you taken your kids to a Broadway show? Tell me about it in the comments below.

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2016 Product of the Year …

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Feeling lucky?  Read on to find out how you can win your very own stash of 2016 Product of the Year Winners, perfect for using at home or on your next vacation…

The 2016 Product of the Year award winners are backed by the votes of more than 40,000 consumers. These tried and true products represent categories such as paper products, pet food, beauty tools, eye care, household, laundry, food and beverages, car care and more.

2016 Product of the Year Giveaway - Great Products for Home or Vacation

2016 Product of the Year Giveaway – Great Products for Home or Vacation

In addition to attending the swanky Product of the Year awards dinner, I got a chance to personally test out these winning products. Drumroll please…here are some of my favorites that can be used during and after any vacation or staycation…

2016 Product of the Year Giveaway - Great Products for Home or Vacation

2016 Product of the Year Giveaway – Great Products for Home or Vacation

If you’re planning a pampering staycation, I highly recommend the Amopé Pedi Perfect™ Extra Coarse Foot File with Diamond Crystals which buffs away dry skin and left my feet feeling revitalized after a long, harsh winter. Its basically the same effect as taking a long walk on the beach minus the expensive airfare. For pampering lips, the Softlips® Cube will not disappoint. If your purse or carry-on bags are as full as mine, you’ll also appreciate the balm’s square container making it super easy to find.

As a busy mom, having time for coffee before school drop off is a rarity so I was excited for the Skinny Cow Creamy Iced Coffee. These delicious creamy beverages are great to keep in your fridge and they are also the perfect size to bring along in a road trip cooler bag!

Speaking of road trips, this year’s winners included some adult and kid pleasing snacks like Gold Emblem abound™ Unsalted Pistachio & Almond Blend and M&M’s® Crispy Chocolate Candies. Turtle Wax® DASH & GLASS is handy to keep you car windows clean on road trips too.

2016 Product of the Year Giveaway - Great Products for Home or Vacation

2016 Product of the Year Giveaway – Great Products for Home or Vacation

You always need extra batteries at home and away so I was glad to find the Energizer® EcoAdvanced™ batteries among the winning products.

We go through a lot of tissues in my house so the Kleenex® Perfect Fit* Facial Tissues was a crowd pleaser. The slim design also makes them easy to use when you travel.

To ward off those airplane germs on your next getaway, don’t forget to back the Emergen-Zzzz®. 

The worst part about coming home from vacation is all the dirty laundry so I was super happy that Tide HE Turbo Clean™ Liquid Detergent, Tide PODS Plus Febreze and Downy Fresh Protect were among the winning products.

Check out the complete list of the 2016 Product of the Year Winners below:

–   Oral Care: ACT® Advanced Care™ Mouthwash

–   Snacks: Gold Emblem abound™ Unsalted Pistachio & Almond Blend

–   Feminine Care: Playtex® Sport® Collection

–   Sustainability: Energizer® EcoAdvanced™

–   OTC: FLONASE Allergy Relief

–   Paper Products: Kleenex® Perfect Fit* Facial Tissues

–   Pet Food: Beyond Purées

–   Sugar Confections: SweeTARTS Soft & Chewy Ropes

–   Liquid Laundry: Tide HE Turbo Clean™ Liquid Detergent

–   Laundry Pacs: Tide PODS Plus Febreze

–   Vitamins & Supplements: Emergen-Zzzz®

–   Beauty Tools: Amopé Pedi Perfect™ Extra Coarse Foot File with Diamond Crystals

–   Kitchen & Home: Finish Powerball Max in 1®

–   Condiments: FRENCH’s Tomato Ketchup

–   Shower & Bath: Lysol Click Gel

–   Condoms: Durex RealFeel® Condoms

–   Eye Care: CLEAR CARE® PLUS

–   Specialty Laundry: Downy Fresh Protect

–   Frozen Foods: Ore-Ida Bold & Crispy Steakhouse Fries

–   Better For You: Weight Watchers® Smart Ones® Smoothies

–   Chocolate: M&M’s® Crispy Chocolate Candies

–   Pet Treats: Milk-Bone® Good Morning™ Daily Vitamin Treats

–   Hair Styling: göt2b mind blowing fast dry HAIRSPRAY

–   Men’s Hygiene: Right Guard Xtreme Heat Shield Deodorant

–   Hair Care: Schwarzkopf essence Ultime Omega Repair 11-IN-1 Leave-In

–   Lip Care: Softlips® Cube

–   Coffee Beverage: Skinny Cow Creamy Iced Coffee

–   Ice Cream: Skinny Cow Dipped Ice Cream Bars

–   Car Care: Turtle Wax® DASH & GLASS

Ready to win?  Product of the Year Awards is partnering with Globetrotting Mommy and one lucky reader will win a gift bag full of this year’s award winning products!

To enter please leave a blog post comment below – Which award winning product is your favorite?

For additional entries please leave separate comments for each:

  1. Like Globetrotting Mommy on Facebook
  2. Follow Globetrotting Mommy on Instagram
  3. Follow Globetrotting Mommy on Twitter
  4. Like Product of the Year on Facebook
  5. Post on Facebook or Tweet about this giveaway.

This giveaway ends at midnight EST on Friday, March 11.

** Congratulations to Amy Orvin!

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Thanks to Product of the Year for inviting me to the NYC awards dinner and providing me with these winning products. As always, all opinions are mine. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

The Perfect Accessory for …

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My daughter loves jewelry as much as the next girl but most of her treasured baubles fall into two categories – easy to break or too fancy for school. When we recently discovered the CHARM IT! collection of super adorable charms, bracelets and necklaces, we were both thrilled.

CHARM IT!, CHARM IT! Giveaway, Girls, Gift, Jewelry, Charm bracelet, great gift, kids

The Perfect Accessory for Globetrotting Girls: CHARM IT! + Giveaway

In addition to being affordable at $5-6 a piece, the charms are rugged enough to wear every day but also dressy enough to wear for special occasions. Best of all, the charms are so cute and on trend with a fun mix of colorful pieces (some with glitter and acrylic stones) that connect to the bracelets and necklaces with easy to open clasps. Best of all, mini fashion designers can personalize their own necklaces and bracelets with hundreds of charms inspired by fashion, food, travel, animals, hobbies, sports, characters and more.

Since charm bracelets (and necklaces) are a great souvenir to remember favorite vacations, I asked my daughter to pick her favorite travel inspired charms and she chose a Yellow Taxi, Palm Tree, Pink Eiffel Tower, Pink Camera and the Love to Travel Suitcase.  I surprised her with it on our recent trip to Miami and she attached the charms to the necklace with a bit of help. Look how cute it turned out…

CHARM IT!, CHARM IT! Giveaway, Girls, Gift, Jewelry, Charm bracelet, great gift, kids

The Perfect Accessory for Globetrotting Girls: CHARM IT! + Giveaway

I think CHARM IT! bracelets and necklaces are a great gift to remember a trip, celebrate a birthday or commemorate a special occasion. The charms can also be used as a reward for kids or to celebrate something special in their lives (lost tooth, good test score, first concert, etc.). If you’re looking for a personalized children’s gift that won’t break the bank, CHARM IT! bracelets and necklaces will not disappoint.

CHARM IT!, CHARM IT! Giveaway, Girls, Gift, Jewelry, Charm bracelet, great gift, kids

The Perfect Accessory for Globetrotting Girls: CHARM IT! + Giveaway

Do you have a mini-globetrotter?  Enter to win the adorable CHARM IT! LOVE TO TRAVEL GIFT SET featuring an adjustable 7.5 inch bracelet, three glitzy charms and a rainbow keepsake box.

CHARM IT!, CHARM IT! Giveaway, Girls, Gift, Jewelry, Charm bracelet, great gift, kids

The Perfect Accessory for Globetrotting Girls: CHARM IT! + Giveaway

For additional entries, please leave separate comments for each of these four options:

  1. Like Globetrotting Mommy on Facebook
  2. Follow Globetrotting Mommy on Instagram
  3. Like TravelMommy on Twitter
  4. Subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy

This giveaway is open to US residents and will run until midnight EST Friday May 29, 2015.

Good luck!
Congratulations to Marilyn Nawara!

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I was not compensated for this post but we did receive a necklace for review purposes. All opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

2015 Product of the Year …

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Today I’ve got a great giveaway filled with 30 items that were recently voted 2015 Product of the Year Winners! In case you’re not familiar with Product of the Year, it is the world’s largest consumer-voted award for product innovation.

Giveaway, Product of the Year, Free, Enter to Win

2015 Product of the Year Giveaway: Great Items for home and away

The 2015 Product of the Year award winners are backed by the votes of more than 40,000 consumers. Basically, these are tried and true products that real people love and actually use in their homes.  Winning products represent categories such as baby, kids, pet care, beauty/skincare, household/laundry, food and home décor.

My family and I got to review these items and here are some of our favorites that can be used before, during and after any vacation or staycation…

Giveaway, Product of the Year, Free, Enter to Win, Snackeez

2015 Product of the Year Giveaway: Great Items for home and away

My daughter claimed the Snackeez right away!  This great invention is part cup and part snack holder making it ideal for home and away. Now that her car seat features a cup holder, this will be a must-have for future road trips.

Need some snacks for your next trip, the Werther’s Original caramel popcorn and the new Butterfinger Peanut Butter Cups were delicious.  They pretty much disappeared in one day…

If you’re planning a pampering staycation, I highly recommend the Dial Greek Yogurt body wash and the Hada Labo Tokyo Ultimate Anti-Aging Mask, a 10-minute facial that left my skin feeling revitalized after a long, harsh winter. Guys can get in on the pampering too with Dial For Men Power Scrub, Gold Bond No Mess Powder Spray and Gold Bond Ultimate Rough & Bumpy Skin Daily Therapy Cream.

Parents who are planning a trip in the middle of potty training will have a stress-free trip putting their kids to bed wearing GoodNites Tru-Fit Underwear.

Ladies who want to get bikini ready will love the Yes! by Finishing Touch™ personal groomer.

The worst part about coming home from vacation is all the dirty laundry so I was super happy that Tide Ultra Stain Release laundry detergent was among the winning products.

Check out the complete list of the 2015 Product of the Year Winners here.

Ready to win?  Product of the Year Awards is partnering with Globetrotting Mommy and one lucky reader will win a gift bag full of this year’s award winning products!

To enter please leave a blog post comment below – Which award winning product is your favorite?

For additional entries please leave separate comments for each:

  1. Like Globetrotting Mommy on Facebook
  2. Follow Globetrotting Mommy on Instagram
  3. Follow Globetrotting Mommy on Twitter
  4. Like Product of the Year on Facebook
  5. Follow POY_USA on Twitter
  6. Post on Facebook or Tweet about this giveaway.

This giveaway ends at midnight EST on Friday, March 6th. Check out Product of the Year’s Facebook page to find out more ways to win.

CONGRATULATIONS to Leah Meray!

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I received review items but all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Wowza Wednesday Holiday …

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It’s Giveaway Time, and Suburban Wife, City Life, Globetrotting Mommy, MommaLew, and Tastefully Childish have teamed up with some favorite brands to bring a giveaway like no other. It’s so good we’re calling it the #WowzaGiveaway!

What’s better is we’ve broken it down into 5 different prize packs so we’ll have lucky 5 winners! So scroll down to check out the prize packs and enter today!

 

Strolling Stylishly Prize:

High fashion meets high function in the Affinity Stroller by Britax. This refined, innovative design combines exceptional comfort and durability. Mix and match frame and Color Pack help create a stroller that is both elegant and enviable. Add the Cozy Toes to keep your little one warm and you’re set! Winner gets to pick frame and Color Pack! For a closer look check out Suburban Wife, City Life’s thoughts at the Britax Affinity Launch Here

 

Wake me up Prize:

Say Hello to the Keurig 2.0 K550 Brewing System. The first system that features revolutionary Keurig 2.0 Brewing Technology which is designed to “read” the lid of each K-Cup or K-Carafe pack to brew the perfect beverage every time. The K550 brewer allows you to brew a 4-cup carafe with the same ease and convenience of brewing a single-serve cup – all at the touch of a button. It’s so smart, and so simple! Check out Momma Lews thoughts here.

Cuddle Up Prize:

When it comes to decorating for the holiday Teleflora puts thought into each item they create. This is not only a beautiful arrangement, but you’ll be able to store your treats year after year in this adorable cookie jar. Decorating for the holidays is easy and festive with Teleflora and since they use local florists it will be hand delivered and smelling wonderful in no time. For some Teleflora Holiday Decorating Tips check out Suburban Wife, City Life.

2 jars Original Peanut Butter, 2 jars Peanut Butter & Chocolate.

Getting your peanut butter fix just became a whole lot easier. Just add boiling water to make Peanut Hottie at home, work, on the go, anywhere and everywhere. Available in Original Peanut Butter and Peanut Butter & Chocolate flavors it should be on everyone’s Wal-Mart shopping list.

We’ll Always Have Paris is a delightful mother-daughter travel memoir by Jennifer Coburn. Jennifer processes her dad’s death while navigating her way through motherhood and around Europe with her daughter for eight summers. Their adventures are full of colorful locals, visits to familiar tourist sights and many unexpected moments. See Globetrotting Mommy’s review here.

This Christmas is a three-novella collection by Jane Green, Liz Ireland, and Jennifer Coburn

 

Mom & Me Prize:

Help meet the unique needs of families worldwide and receive this
gorgeous draped beaded necklace. This necklace is handmade by an artisan
in Bali who helps children get the education she never received
herself. 

A NYC centric curated children’s boutique specializing in the most thoughtful, unique gifts for those looking to set themselves apart from giving the typical presents to kids. You’ll find the perfect “it” gift that includes a dash of nostalgia and a taste of your own personal past brought to life with the collection of kid tees, toys, music, books and more.

Lightweight, durable and soft, the quilted Cary Love Tote is not only the perfect diaper bag, but it is also an easy everyday tote overall. For each Carry Love Tote Diaper bag sold, 5% proceeds will be donated to Every Mother Counts. Check out Globetrotting Mommy’s thoughts here.

Time for Fun Prize:

This will be a hit with any junior fashionista on your holiday list. The kit contains an array of art supplies and fashion template so kids can create their own designs. From there, the designs come alive on the virtual runway thanks to a coordinating app. So much fun for kids and adults too! See what Globetrotting Mommy thinks about it Here!

More than just a watch, VTech’s Kidizoom Smartwatch lets young photographers take photos and videos. Plus, play mini learning games and tell time for learning fun on the go!
Wowza, right! We’re so excited about all the items available and hope you are too. So click on the rafflecopter below and start entering! Open to US entries only. Must be 18 or older to enter. Items can not be guaranteed in time for the holiday.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Toys that Travel: Crayola …

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If you’re looking for a fun toy that will happily keep your kids entertained at home and away this holiday season, read on to learn about Crayola Virtual Design Pro (and enter to win your own!).

Crayola Virtual Design, Review, Giveaway, Toys, Creative, Fashion, Designer

Toys that Travel: Crayola Virtual Design Pro Review and Giveaway

We’re big Crayola fans here (remember our trip to the Crayola Experience?) and my daughter loves to dress up so I had a feeling the Crayola Virtual Design Pro-Fashion Set would keep her nicely entertained over Thanksgiving break. We tested it out at grandma’s house and it was a huge hit with everyone!

Crayola Virtual Design, Review, Giveaway, Toys, Creative, Fashion, Designer

Toys that Travel: Crayola Virtual Design Pro Review and Giveaway

I loved that all the tools (vibrant pencils and markers, stencils, design book and pencil sharpener) came in a sturdy, easy to transport case. Arts and crafts projects can sometimes get unwieldy but this design portfolio really kept the mess and chaos to a minimum. My daughter quickly got to work as a budding fashion designer while I downloaded the free My Virtual Fashion Show app.

Crayola Virtual Design, Review, Giveaway, Toys, Creative, Fashion, Designer

Toys that Travel: Crayola Virtual Design Pro Review and Giveaway

I love toys that let my daughter’s imagination run wild and this was a perfect example of that. She loved using the stars and stripes stencils to make a 4th of July outfit then she decorated a one-shoulder dress in orange and pink for New Year’s Eve. Although the book contains 20 templates, the options are really endless since you can download and print additional designs. Once the design is colored, you import it into the app via a photo and then the real fun begins.

Crayola Virtual Design, Review, Giveaway, Toys, Creative, Fashion, Designer

Toys that Travel: Crayola Virtual Design Pro Review and Giveaway

The app lets the kiddie (and adult) designers choose details like hair color and styles, skin tones, shoe options and accessories like glasses. The age recommendation is 6+ but my 5-year old had no trouble navigating her way through the different fashion options, backgrounds, etc. As soon as you’re done, your design comes to “life” in 3D walking down the runway. It was really amazing how lifelike the models and their outfits looked on the virtual runway and I was also happy to see that it didn’t matter if kids colored out of the lines.

Crayola Virtual Design, Review, Giveaway, Toys, Creative, Fashion, Designer

Toys that Travel: Crayola Virtual Design Pro Review and Giveaway

Every new design gets stored in the app and you can customize your fashion shows and model choices.

Crayola Virtual Design, Review, Giveaway, Toys, Creative, Fashion, Designer

Toys that Travel: Crayola Virtual Design Pro Review and Giveaway

Crayola Virtual Design, Review, Giveaway, Toys, Creative, Fashion, Designer

Toys that Travel: Crayola Virtual Design Pro Review and Giveaway

Overall, I was really happy with this toy but I would have liked a way to design our own dress templates (hint, hint Crayola). This toy happily kept my daughter busy longer than usual (I think she enjoyed accessorizing the models as much as she enjoyed coloring her designs) and I had a lot of fun with it too. If you’ve got a budding fashionista on your holiday shopping list, this toy is a really great pick and a nice option for family bonding over the holidays.  And if you’ve got boys, check out the Crayola Virtual Design Pro-Cars Set which allows kids to customize their own car designs.

I’ve got three Crayola Virtual Design Pro-Fashion Sets and a $50 gift card to give away!

To enter please leave a blog post comment- Who do you know who would love this toy?

For additional entries, please leave separate comments for each of these four options:

  1. Like Globetrotting Mommy on Facebook
  2. Follow Globetrotting Mommy on Instagram
  3. Like TravelMommy on Twitter
  4. Subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy

This giveaway is open to US residents and will run until midnight EST Friday December 12, 2014.

**Congratulations to the winners:

Amanda Sakovitz

Jessica

Nancy Miller

Bonnie P

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I was not compensated for this post but the Crayola Virtual Design Pro, gift card, information and additional gift pack have been provided by Crayola. As always, all opinions are my own.

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Top 5 Family Friendly …

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This is probably going to be one of the last nice weekends before the Polar Vortex strikes again so get your costumes ready and check out these family friendly Halloween activities.

Halloween, Events, NYC, Family Travel, Weekend, Things to do with Kids

Top 5 Family Friendly Halloween Activities in NYC

1) Circle Line’s Halloween Ball Kids Costume Cruise

Want to combine a Halloween activity with a little sightseeing?  You’ll love Circle Line’s special Halloween Ball – Kids Costume Cruise. I reviewed this family friendly cruise this summer and it was so much fun.  Kids are in for a spooky fun time with a strolling magician and face painter and everyone will enjoy the amazing NYC views.

When and where: Saturday, October 25. Pier 83 (West 42nd St. and 12th Ave.) Boarding begins at 9:30 am and the cruise sails from 10 am – 11:15 am.

2) Baby Loves Disco’s Boo Baby Boo Halloween Spectacular

Does your baby love to boogie?  Check out Baby Loves Disco’s Halloween themed dance party on Sunday. Come in costume and bring your dancing shoes! There will be kid-friendly activities like balloon sculpting, crafting, mini manis and a costume contest. I’ll be there with my daughter so come by and say hi! If you can’t make it, the next one is a Pajama Party on November 23 – just roll our of bed and come in your PJs!  How fun.

When and Where: Sunday, October 26. Le Poisson Rouge (158 Bleecker) from noon – 3

3) Haunted High Line

Check out the spooky transformation of the High Line at its 4th annual family Halloween celebration, the Haunted High Line. Kids can trick-or-treat with the Mad Cookie Man and the West Side Cowboy, create Halloween art, explore the haunted train tunnel created by students from the School of Visual Arts, and learn about the creation of the High Line and the spooky history of Manhattan’s West Side.

When and Where: Saturday, October 25. The High Line (14th to 17th Streets) from 11 am – 3 pm.

4) Boo at the Zoo

The Bronx Zoo is always a hit with kids of all ages and one of my favorite times to visit is for Boo at the Zoo. Come this weekend (and Columbus day or Halloween) and you’ll enjoy hay mazes, costume parades, musical performances, magic shows, a Dinosaur Safari and more. Bring your camera and don’t miss the Jack O’Lantern Illumination, a dark passageway filled with hundreds of intricately carved and illuminated pumpkins. Buy your tickets online and save $5 off each ticket.

When and Where: The Bronx Zoo. Weekends through November 2 from 10 am to 5:30 pm.

5) Halloween Kidz Karnival

Hudson River Park is transforming Tribeca’s Pier 26 into a wickedly wild Halloween Kidz Karnival. Dress in costume and enjoy face painting, arts and crafts, rides, snacks and more.  Story Pirates will put on a Halloween-themed improv show that’s sure to thrill. This is a great not too scary option for young kids.

When and Where:  October 26. Noon to 5 pm. Hudson River Park’s Pier 26

Happy almost Halloween.  Are you still looking for costume ideas?

 

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Back-To-School Giveaway …

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I’m super excited to join some of my favorite bloggers for a Back-to-School Giveaway!  If you’ve got kids you’re definitely going to want to enter.

It’s time to get ready to head back to school and a group of us got together to share some of our favorite products that make that first day a little easier for both parents and students.

Read on and enter below to win everything on the list…

Back to School, Giveaway

Now to introduce you to the awesome bloggers hosting this giveaway! Stop by and visit them to say thanks!  Destiny of Suburban Wife, City Life, Courtney & Julie of The Chirping Moms, Lyla of Globetrotting Mommy, Kris of My Strange Family, Elizabeth of MommieDe, Esti of Primetime Parenting, Lynda of Main Street Mama and Jessica of Peekababy.

Here’s a breakdown and brief description of the amazing giveaway items…

$50 Stride Rite Gift Card

“A century of quality crafted footwear, designed specifically for kids.” Nothing says Back to School like a new pair of shoes and Stride Rite knows what little feet need.

$100 RUUM Gift Card

American’s Kids Ware ranging from birth to size 14Y this company will have you wishing picture day was everyday.  The clothes are casual and stylish with quality at it’s finest.

Mabel’s Labels – choice of Stylish Scholars Combo or Ultimate Back to School Combo

A waterproof, dishwasher safe and microwave safe set of labels to put on anything you don’t want to risk losing.  Their slogan is “Labels for the stuff kids lose.”  To read a full review please visit Suburban Wife, City Life.

Vamousse – bottle of Lice Prevention and Lice Treatment

No one likes to talk about these unwanted visitors, but it’s best to be prepared and Vamousse helps to take care of both.  These products are non-toxic and pesticide free.  Killing the lice in as little at 15 minutes.  A great secret weapon to have on hand.

BubbleBum – an inflatable car booster seat

This booster seat is the perfect item to have on hand when your child is going to someone else’s house after school or you’re picking up another child for a play-date after school.  It meets all US safety testing standards and is appropriate for ages 4-11.  To read a full review please visit Globetrotting Mommy.

Spbang – three reusable snack bags

This mom invented, made in the USA, lead free, phthalate free, bpa free and food safe bags are going to make packing lunches so easy.  To read a full review please visit MommieDE.

Little MissMatched – backpack of your choice

A new backpack is much more than a place to hold your school supplies, but an expression of your child.  These super fun bubble backpacks are not only stylish, but also so roomy!

Peppercorn Kids – $25 Gift Card

Whether you wear a uniform or everyday clothes allowing your child to accessorize shows their personality and fashion sense.   Adorable hats, ties and bow ties for the little man of the house or a fun hair accessory or necklace for the little lady.

Skip-Hop – choice of zoo backpack and insulated lunch bag

Skip-Hop has been creating these adorable animal backpacks for years, and they have some new animals they’ve added to the family.  Watching as your little one walks into the classroom is a little easier when they are wearing something so cute and functional.  The insulated lunch bag is easy to wipe clean and perfect for on the go.

Sneakz Organic – case (12) of Chocolate Milkshake

If you have a picky eater, who loves to drink chocolate milk then you are set!  Sneakz Organic combines 4 veggies into a delicious chocolate milkshake making you feel like a sneaky parent!

HABA USA – choice of Wildlife Mini Backpack

Perfect backpack for both school and exploring.  A roomy inside with adjustable straps and chest strap there’s no worry for your little one sliding this off before getting to class.

Wall Pops – Learn to Write Chalkboard

You always say don’t write on the wall, but with this we encourage your child to!  Wall Pops are easily repositionable and removable.

Raffi – Love Bug CD

Raffi has long been a passionate advocate for children and a sustainable world for today’s youth. ‘Love Bug’ resounds with Child Honouring principles and affirms Raffi’s place as the legendary children’s artist we all know him to be.

We are so grateful to all of the sponsors who are helping to support this giveaway with over $450 worth of products.  This giveaway will run till Friday, August 15th at 11:59pm.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Talking Family Travel with …

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When celebrity mom Brooke Burke-Charvet invited me to hear her favorite family travel tips, I said “Sure, I’ll be right over!”  Ok so maybe it was Embassy Suites Hotels who invited me and maybe we met at Dylan’s Candy Bar and maybe there were some other writers there…but still…I got to hear Brooke’s best family travel tips and I’m going to share them with you lucky readers!

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Talking Family Travel with Brooke Burke-Charvet and Embassy Suites Hotels

The first time I stayed in a hotel with my daughter the staff set up a crib that looked like a death trap next to our bed and nobody got any sleep. It was pretty much an exhausting disaster that made me want to wait a long, long time to do it again. The second time we stayed in a hotel was a few months later for my college reunion and the group hotel block was at an Embassy Suites Hotel. I threw the pack and play in with the luggage and hoped for the best.

It was a completely different experience having a real bedroom so my daughter could go to bed early and a separate room for the grown ups to spread out.  More space, more privacy, more sleep…a suite hotel is a win-win all around for families. Brooke moderated the Embassy Suites’ “Pretty Great Family Debate” event with her children and shared her favorite family travel tips below. I really love her idea to let each family member “own a day” of the trip. It sounds fun and means less planning for me so I’m definitely going to try that next time. Which is your favorite?

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Embassy Suites Hotels – Brooke Burke-Charvet’s Family Travel Tips

Want to try Embassy Suites’ pretty great family-friendly offerings for yourself?  Just post a photo of you and your kids enjoying a vacation in the #PrettyGreat Photo Contest on Instagram now through June 26.

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I was not compensated for this post but I did receive a gift bag and my daughter got to make some really fun treats.  All opinions are my own.

Fun Food Friday: Celebrate …

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Did you know April is National Grilled Cheese month?  If you’re looking for a sophisticated grilled cheese recipe and a chance to win a Sonoma getaway (because this grown up version goes great with a glass of wine and ocean views), read on.  If not, stick to your white bread and American cheese and move along.

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Fun Food Friday: Celebrate Grilled Cheese Month Sonoma County Style

To celebrate the delicious pairing of a crispy and gooey grilled cheese sandwich with a delicious glass of wine, Sonoma County’s winemaking pioneer St. Francis Winery has launched its third annual Gourmet Grilled Cheese Contest.  Inspiring food aficionados to pair a signature grilled cheese recipe with their favorite St. Francis wine, contestants can upload their entry on the St. Francis’ Facebook page now through May 5th, 2014 for a chance to win a four-day trip to Sonoma, CA and the winery. Sonoma sounds great to me after this long, cold winter so I’ll definitely be entering.

Grilled Cheese Expert MacKenzie Smith of www.GrilledCheeseSocial.com shares her favorite, Spring time grilled cheese recipe paired with St. Francis Old Vines Zinfandel below.

Ingredients (Yield 1 sandwich)
-1 bagel, cut in half and scooped out
-1 small wedge of Wisconsin Brie
-2 tbsp of BelGioioso Mascarpone Cheese
-2 tbsp of blistered blueberries (recipe below)
-A few basil leaves, torn
-2 pats of salted butter

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Globetrotting Mommy Fun Food Friday: Celebrate Grilled Cheese Month Sonoma County Style

Directions

1. First, cut your bagel in half and scoop out the interior of both sides. This will create the perfect little nook to keep your fillings inside the sandwich. Then, with a very sharp serrated knife, very carefully cut off the outside off the bagel so that the nice bready interior can be used to create a super crispy crust on your sandwich at the end.

2. Next, fill the nook of one half of your bagel with brie. Try to keep it all in the grilled cheese canyon or mote as I like to think of it. After all, it is guarding your face from getting burnt by molten cheese.

3. Then, lay your blistered blueberries on top of the Brie.

* To make these sweet and tart treats, all you need to do is melt a pat of salted butter in your skillet and add a cup of blueberries. Turn your heat to high and let them cook up. Add a tablespoon of brown sugar once you start to see them pop and stir until evenly coated. Allow to cook for a few more minutes until the juices release and start to thicken.

**And if you don’t want to go through all that, you could totally just use some sort of blueberry preserves. Those will work perfectly, they just won’t be as much fun as making them yourself!

4. Next, lay some torn basil leaves on top of your blueberries. I think this earthy herbal contrast is so nice against the creamy brie and the bright blueberries. Fresh mint would also be super dope.

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Globetrotting Mommy Fun Food Friday: Celebrate Grilled Cheese Month Sonoma County Style

5. Almost done! Just smear on some of that sweet mascarpone into the other bagel half’s canal and really pack it in there. It’s so good. If you’ve never had it before, it’s like sweet cream cheese mixed with ricotta mixed with whatever kisses the hottest person in the world gives. Yeah, it’s like that.

6. Combine the two halves together and awe in their glory.

7. Now that this insane sandwich is built, turn your burner to medium high and butter both sides of your soon-to-be grilled cheese. Place it in your skillet and allow to cook for a few minutes until the bagel turns golden and crispy. Flip and repeat. Remember, both of these cheeses melt super fast so they don’t need to be on the burner for long. Just a few minutes will do.

8. Then once it’s all done, you will definitely want to let this little baby sit for a minute or two. Those cheeses need to thicken up and soak in all the flavors from the blueberries and the basil. Or if you can’t wait, who cares, you’ll just have to lick your plate to make sure nothing goes to waste.

Dig in babes!

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