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Mom Life: Mom’s Night …

October 13, 2017 By admin

Summer always has me running in a million directions and then back-to-school season arrives and I am oh so thrilled to have my daily routine again. Meet-the-teacher curriculum nights can be fun but what really makes moms happy is an adult night out full of great food and drinks, socializing and a little pampering. Am I right?

When Momtrends invited me to a Mom’s Night Out Event to mingle with fellow influencers, editors from some of my favorite Meredith Magazines like Parents, Family Fun, Fit Pregnancy and family-friendly brand reps, I couldn’t say “yes” fast enough.

The evening kicked off with a welcome from Parents editor-in-chief, Liz Vaccariello who remembered me from a South Africa press trip we attended together many moons ago. After sampling the gorgeous and tasty appetizers and wine from Willamsburg, VA (more about that later…), it was time for some pampering and mingling.

I had to start with the New Balance team who had masseuses on hand to massage our tired mom feet. I broke one of my toes just before school started and living in NYC, my recovery has taken forever so I was thrilled to get a little TLC. I’ve been forced to wear the ugliest medical shoe for the last few weeks so I was super excited to receive a pair of Fresh Foam Arishi New Balance sneakers (in chic gray) to wear post-recovery. I love the lightweight, (perfect for my travels) breathable styling and the ultra cushioning which will keep me comfortable as I run around New York City (drop-offs, pick-ups and after-school activities) and beyond.

The team from Swaddle Me knows moms never have enough time for pampering so they brought along the GlamSquad team to treat us to mini-makeovers (concealer and lip color go a long way!). With new smokey eyes, I learned about the newest Swaddle Me baby products which have come along way since my baby arrived almost eight years ago. The new, innovative SwaddleMe Kicksie is a legs-free swaddle perfect for warm weather while the new Swaddle Me Footsie is a legs-free swaddle with pajama-like footies which is perfect for cool weather. They’ve also launched three new gift sets (Essentials, Baby Bath and Little Lovey) which are perfect for any new baby and also make great holiday gifts.

My go-to lunch specialty is PB&J so I was happy to say hi to the Jif team and sample some of their new goodies and share how I inspire creativity with my daughter (by letting things get messy, of course!). I especially love their “Jif to go” minis which are great for traveling and school snacks. It’s impossible to learn or be creative when kids are hungry and the “Imagine If, With Jif” program plans to fuel the next generation and support families who want to make the world a better place. Submit your inspirational idea, now through October 20, and you could win up to $30,000 to make that dream a reality. Full details here.

Next, I headed over to the gorgeous nursery set-up where I tried my hand at DIY floral arranging. The Munchkin team was on hand to demonstrate the Munchkin Step Pail which features a childproof, self-sealing system to lock out odors. This is so crucial for NYC apartment-living where one stinky diaper can quickly invade your entire space. Best of all, with Munchkin’s Get a Pail, Give a Tree program, Munchkin will plant a tree for every diaper pail sold.  So awesome! We’ve had a slew of Munchkin products over the years but my current favorite is their Munchkin Miracle 360 Cup which looks like a cup but acts like a sippy making it great for kids of all ages.

Last but not least, I met with the Visit Williamsburg (Jamestown, Yorktown, and Williamsburg, Virginia) team to hear about their culinary offerings, family-friendly attractions, pampering spas, famed living history museum, outdoor adventures and more. My husband went to college in Williamsburg and spent many vacations there so it has definitely been on my radar for a family getaway so I was really excited to see how many varied attractions the area features. Check out this inspiration board that I personalized above with my favorite activities (spas, outdoor adventures, crafting, history and amusement parks, oh my!) and stay tuned as I share more details about my top picks in the region.

Thanks again to Momtrends for organizing a great Mom’s Night Out!

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Thanks to Meredith Corp., Jif, Munchkin, New Balance, Swaddle Me and Visit Williamsburg for sponsoring this post. I was compensated for attending this event and writing this post but all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

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1 CommentFiled Under: Amusement Park, baby nursery, baby shower, Beauty, crafty, Decor, Events, Fashion, Food and Drink, Footwear, Great Gifts, Just for Moms, New York, Nursery and playroom, Products I love, Travel Tagged With: baby, family, Jif, Mom, mom life, momtrends events, Montrends, Munchkin, New Balance, Parents Magazine, Swaddle Me, Travel, Williamsburg

Summer Fun: Top 10 Things to …

June 13, 2017 By admin

I’m always amazed by all the things to do in Coney Island. From beaches and museums to all-day amusement park rides and family-friendly eats, Coney Island is a great day trip for the whole family.  Read on for my favorite Coney Island picks…

 Top 10 Things to do in Coney Island

 

Luna Park has 30 family friendly rides.

Luna Park has 30 family friendly rides.

1) Ride the family friendly rides at Luna Park, NYC’s largest amusement park. New this year, Luna Park’s all-day wristband includes unlimited rides (one ride per visit for the Coney Island Raceway and Slingshot) on all 30 Luna Park attractions including the Cyclone. Now that my daughter is over 48” inches, she loved going on The Tickler and Steeplechase rides.

2) Bring your swimsuits and hit the waves at Coney Island’s beach. Coney Island boasts nearly three miles of family friendly beach so bring a cooler and chairs and stay for the day or just take a quick dip and get back on the rides. Don’t forget the sunscreen and other family friendly beach essentials.

3) Stop for a photo-op and snack at Coney Island Walls, the outdoor museum of street art.

10 Things to do on Coney Island. Ride the iconic Cyclone roller coaster.

10 Things to do on Coney Island. Ride the iconic Cyclone roller coaster.

 

4) Celebrate the Cyclone’s 90th anniversary by riding this iconic roller coaster (must be 54 inches). I guarantee you’ll love it.

Nathan's Famous is a must for Coney Island visitors.

Nathan’s Famous is a must for Coney Island visitors.

5) Have a hot dog at world’s famous Nathan’s Famous. If you’re up for it, join in on the world famous July 4th Hot Dog Eating Contest.

6) Take a spin on the historic B&B Carousell which has been gorgeously restored.

7) See the Brooklyn Cyclones baseball team in action at MCU Park. Their Sunday Funday games include kiddie perks and giveaways with themes including Paw Patrol, Marvel Super Hero Nights and more.

8) Join in on the famous Mermaid Parade taking place on June 17.
Dino's Wonder Wheel is one of Coney Island's top attractions.

Deno’s Wonder Wheel is one of Coney Island’s top attractions.

9) Take a spin on Deno’s Wonder Wheel, the centerpiece of Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park. This 97-year old Coney Island landmark offers the best beach and boardwalk views with a choice of swinging or stationary cars. You’ll also find dozens of family friendly rides here including some newly restored vintage rides.

10) Walk along the boardwalk and discover old school arcades, circus shows, and the nearby New York Aquarium.

Before you go, be sure to check out my Top 5 Tips for Visiting Coney Island and check out the events calendar.
Have you been to Coney Island?  Tell me your favorite thing to do there in the comments below.

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Special thanks to the Alliance for Coney Island for inviting us to participate in Coney Island Family Blogger Day. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

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2 CommentsFiled Under: Amusement Park, beach, Day Trip, Entertainment, Events, Food and Drink, Just for Boys, Just for Dads, Just for Fun, Just for Girls, Just for Kids, Just for Moms, New York, Summer Travel, Travel, United States, Where To Go Tagged With: amusement park, Aquarium, beach, Coney Island, Cyclone, Luna Park, NYC, NYC with Kids, roller coaster, summer in NYC, Wonder Wheel

Top 11 Tips for Visiting …

May 16, 2017 By admin

One of the best parts of a Disney Cruise is a day at Disney’s famed 3-mile long private island. If you’re lucky to be sailing away Disney style, here are my Top 10 Tips for Visiting Disney Castaway Cay…

Top 11 Tips for Visiting Disney Castaway Cay

Top 11 Tips for Visiting Disney Castaway Cay

Top 11 Tips for Visiting Disney Castaway Cay

1) Getting around Castaway Cay

Disney keeps things easy and fun so getting onto Castaway Cay is simple. No taking tender boats and no long walks to the action, simple scan your Key to the World card at security and you’re there. You’ll be greeted by some favorite Disney characters and staffers will direct you to you the trams and nearby beaches. Tip: If you don’t need to take the tram, the walk isn’t too far and has some awesome photo-ops along the way.

Top 11 Tips for Visiting Disney Castaway Cay. Taking the tram around Castaway Cay is a great option for tired kids.

Taking the tram around Castaway Cay is a great option for tired kids.

2) What to bring to Disney Castaway Cay

Aside from your key card, sunglasses and sunscreen, you won’t need too much to enjoy your day on the beach. Lounge chairs, towels and lunch are all provided. The island is very casual so wear swimsuits, cover-ups and beachy footwear. Tip: If you’ve got little ones, bring along sand toys and age appropriate floats like a puddle jumper if your kids don’t like wearing life vests. Binoculars are always fun for older kids.

Top 11 Tips for Visiting Disney Castaway Cay. So many awesome lookout points on Disney's Castaway Cay.

So many awesome lookout points on Disney’s Castaway Cay.

3) Eating on Castaway Cay

Just like on your cruise, lunch and non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary. Specialty drinks in souvenir cups and adult beverages are plentiful and can be charged to your cabin. The lunch menu is a BBQ with ribs, chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, fish, salads, corn on the cob, chips, plenty of fresh fruit and soft-serve ice cream. Tip: If you have a picky child or want a fancier meal, you can always go back on board for lunch.

Top 11 Tips for Visiting Disney Castaway Cay. Kids will love the fresh fruit buffet on Castaway Cay.

Kids will love the fresh fruit buffet on Castaway Cay.

4) Avoiding crowds on Disney Castaway Cay

Most guests seem to settle at first area of the family beach so be prepared to walk a little to avoid crowds. Tip: If you’ve got kids, pick a spot by Pelican Plunge for big kids or by Spring-a-Leak water play area for little kids.  If you’re kid-free, head to adults-only Serenity Cay.

Top 11 Tips for Visiting Disney Castaway Cay. Miles of white sand beach await at Disney's Castaway Cay.

Miles of white sand beach await at Disney’s Castaway Cay.

5) Things to do on Castaway Cay

Activities abound on Disney Cay. Families can rent paddleboats, kayaks, bikes, floats, and tubes. There are also organized activities like snorkeling, parasailing, fishing, swimming, jet-skiing, stingray feeding and more. There is no pressure to partake in these activities and most families simply stay on the beach but active families will have plenty of options. Tip: Sign up for popular activities in advance (up to 120 days prior to your ship’s departure).

6) Disney Castaway Cay fun for kids

From playing in the sand, riding waves and floating in the ocean to splashing around at Spring-a-Leak water play area and exploring the slides, water canons and tipping water buckets at Pelican Plunge, kids are guaranteed a fun time at Castaway Cay. Tip: If your kids prefer organized activities, check them into the Scuttle’s Cove kids program which is supervised by Disney counselors from the ship.

Top 11 Tips for Visiting Disney Castaway Cay. Pelican Plunge is a favorite spot for kids on Disney's Castaway Cay.

Pelican Plunge is a favorite spot for kids on Disney’s Castaway Cay.

7) Shopping on Castaway Cay

There are two main shops on the island, She Sells Sea Shells…and Everything Else and Buy the Sea Shore, so be sure to check them out as your travel around. Tip: The island is the only place to buy Castaway Cay merchandise so if you love something, be sure to buy it.

8) Only on Disney Castaway Cay…

One unique offering on Castaway Cay is a working post office so send a postcard home featuring a special Castaway Cay postmark. Tip: The post office only accepts cash but you can also buy stamps in advance on the ship.

9) The Disney Castaway Cay 5k

If you’re looking for an active way to explore Castaway Cay, consider running or walking in the island’s 5K. This free event takes place in the early morning and is open to guests 10 and older. Tip: All participants receive award certificates and medals so pack your sneakers if interested.

10) Spotting the Disney Characters on Castaway Cay

There are several character photo ops all around the island so be sure to stop and take photos when you see them. If your kids like to dance, check out the character dance party. Tip: If a certain character line is long, skip ahead to then next one and then go back.

Top 11 Tips for Visiting Disney Castaway Cay. Don't miss the Disney characters on Castaway Cay.

Don’t miss the Disney characters on Castaway Cay.

11) Snorkeling at Disney Castaway Cay

There are organized snorkel trips or you can bring your own snorkel and mask. Guests can snorkel right from the family beach lagoon. Tip: In addition to fish, be on the lookout for some underwater Disney characters.

Top 11 Tips for Visiting Disney Castaway Cay. Adventure awaits on Disney's Castaway Cay.

Adventure awaits on Disney’s Castaway Cay.

Have you been to Castaway Cay before? Be sure to check out 20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise before you go.

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My most recent Disney Cruise took place as part of the 2017 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration #DisneySMMC. As always, all opinions are my own. This post contains some affiliate links. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

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1 CommentFiled Under: Bahamas, beach, Caribbean, Cruises, Disney, Don't travel without, Food and Drink, Travel, Travel Tips Tagged With: Bahamas, Castaway Cay, Cruise with kids, Disney, Disney Cruise, Family Travel

Globetrotting Mommy’s …

May 1, 2017 By admin

Mother’s day is coming up (May 14 in the United States) so I hope you have some Mother’s Day gift ideas for your mom (wife or grandma). If you need help, grab one of these picks from my 2017 Mother’s Day Gift Guide and have your kids make a card or candy necklace for a sure win.

Globetrotting Mommy's 2017 Mother's Day Gift Guide

Globetrotting Mommy’s 2017 Mother’s Day Gift Guide

2017 Mother’s Day Gift Guide

1) Bodum Copper French Press

For the mom who loves a freshly brewed cup of joe, this gorgeous copper press will be a big hit. Pair it with some gourmet coffee beans from Guatemala and you’re all set.

Globetrotting Mommy's 2017 Mother's Day Gift Guide

Globetrotting Mommy’s 2017 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas (Photo from Amazon.com)

2) Life is short…BUY THE BOOTS coloring book

Any artsy mom would love this cheeky adult coloring book filled with ready-to-color designs and fun quotes. Throw in some fancy colored pencils and a gift card to her favorite shoe store and you’ve got a great gift.

Globetrotting Mommy's 2017 Mother's Day Gift Guide

Globetrotting Mommy’s 2017 Mother’s Day Gift Guide

3) Parisian Chic Look Book: What Should I Wear Today?

For the fashionista mom who dreams of living in Paris some day, this shiny new fashion guide by Ines de la Fressange will surely please. Throw in a trip to Paris and she’ll be thrilled.

4) FoodSaver Fresh Food Preservation System

Appliances may not be romantic but I’m pretty sure any mom will love getting this handy vacuum sealing machine. I am really impressed with how long my fruits and veggies last in the special containers and bags. If you hate watching avocados turn brown, this gadget is your new best friend.

Globetrotting Mommy's 2017 Mother's Day Gift Guide

Globetrotting Mommy’s 2017 Mother’s Day Gift Guide

5) Heat Holders Thermal Socks

If your mom loves to be comfy, she will love these awesome cushiony socks that are like pajamas for feet. Perfect for keeping feet warm on chilly airplanes or camping trips, these are a great option for the mom who has everything. Pair it with one their Snuggle Up Blankets if she lives in a cold climate.

Globetrotting Mommy's 2017 Mother's Day Gift Guide

Globetrotting Mommy’s 2017 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas (Photo from Amazon.com)

6) JOBY GripTight GorillaPod Stand 

Perfect for the mom who takes every photo with her iPhone, this handy tripod stand allows moms to get in on the photos. I love how the adjustable legs can wrap so you can use it in a variety of settings.

Globetrotting Mommy's 2017 Mother's Day Gift Guide

Globetrotting Mommy’s 2017 Mother’s Day Gift Guide (Photo from Amazon.com)

7) Sky of Blue Cards Canvas Tote

I’ve always got a tote bag on for grocery shopping, library books and all the other things I carry around. This “Mommin’ Hard Everyday Like A Boss” tote is a perfect gift for any on-the-go mama. Add a gift card to her favorite store to add some wow.

Globetrotting Mommy's 2017 Mother's Day Gift Guide

Globetrotting Mommy’s 2017 Mother’s Day Gift Guide (Photo credit: Sky of Blue Cards)

8) Tiffany & Co. Airplane Bank

For the mom who loves to vacation, this luxe silver airplane bank is perfect for saving up her vacation funds.

Globetrotting Mommy's 2017 Mother's Day Gift Guide

Globetrotting Mommy’s 2017 Mother’s Day Gift Guide (Photo from Tiffany)

9) Mommy and Me Photo Shoot

Hire a professional like (Flytographer or Classic Kids) or hand dad the good camera and head on a vacation or staycation. Or, head to Walt Disney World and get the whole family in the photo with their Disney Memory Maker.

Globetrotting Mommy's 2017 Mother's Day Gift Guide

Globetrotting Mommy’s 2017 Mother’s Day Gift Guide

10) Fancy Schmancy Date

Last but not least, you can’t go wrong taking mom out for an elaborate Mother’s Day brunch, pampering spa treatment or to the hottest show in town.

Globetrotting Mommy's 2017 Mother's Day Gift Guide

Globetrotting Mommy’s 2017 Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Happy Mother’s Day!
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This post contains some affiliate links but all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

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1 CommentFiled Under: Airplane, Books, crafty, Electronics and Gadgets, Food and Drink, Great Gifts, Holidays and Celebrations, Just for Moms, Products I love Tagged With: Gift Guide, gifts for moms, Mother's Day

Staycation Family Fun at …

March 7, 2017 By admin

It isn’t every day I get to really play tourist in my own city so when Conrad New York invited my family for a downtown staycation, I jumped at the chance. If you are looking for a family friendly all-suite hotel in the heart of NYC’s new downtown, Conrad New York is a fantastic choice.

Conrad New York is a great choice for families visiting New York City. #Family Travel

Conrad New York is a great choice for families visiting New York City.

Many tourists think they need to stay near Times Square but I like to recommend families stay in more residential areas to get a better feel for the “real” New York while avoiding the craziness of midtown. Located just steps away from Brookfield Place, and nearby the Freedom Tower and 9/11 memorial, Westfield World Trade Center shopping center (aka the Oculus) and historic Battery Park, Conrad New York was an ideal home base for our two-day trip.

We live nearby so we arrived by taxi and quickly checked in. The 15-story lobby is just stunning and the signature 10-story custom artwork, Sol Lewitt’s Loopy Doopy, really mesmerized us all as the colors changed when the lights shifted.

Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York

Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York

The hotel features a sleek modern design with stylish decor, a grand marble staircase and awesome Hudson River views – I particularly loved the open air spaces that allow guests to take in the art and views from every floor. Just the place to stay inspired…

We settled into our suite (one of 463) which was stylishly decorated with modern art and a soothing color palate. My daughter had her own sleeping area in the living area while my husband and I claimed the master bedroom. In addition to the comfortable beds (and plush feather pillows!), there were closets upon closets, an incredibly spacious bathroom, a separate oversized walk-in rainfall shower, a desk area and chairs for relaxing.

Our stylish suite at Conrad New York. Staycation family fun at Conrad New York.Our stylish suite at Conrad New York. Staycation family fun at Conrad New York.

My daughter immediately fell in love with Hudson, a stuffed bull mascot who was awaiting her arrival.

Our first stop was a visit to The Rink at Brookfield Place where we were greeted by Former U. S. Olympic ice skaters Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov who manage the rink.

Staycation, New York with kids, Former U. S. Olympic ice skaters Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov at The Rink at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad, New York

Former U. S. Olympic ice skaters Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov at The Rink at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York

My daughter and I enjoyed some time together on the ice and then she had a private lesson. The rink isn’t too large making it easy to keep track of your kids and balancing props for young children are available. Talk about a rink with a view. Such a gorgeous backdrop, right? If you’re lucky, you might catch an Ice Skate with Olympic Greats performance.

Skating at The Rink at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad, New York

Skating at The Rink at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York

Conrad New York offers hotel packages that include ice skating lessons here – definitely a unique perk for an NYC hotel. The ice rink is housed outside Brookfield Place all winter but during the other seasons, you can often find cool art exhibits and other fun pop-up events.

We went back to our room and were quickly greeted with a fresh fruit plate and drinks. I have no idea how the hotel staff read our minds but we were hungry and thirsty so this hit the spot.

Post ice skating snack at Conrad, New York.

Post ice skating snack at Conrad New York.

The weather was gorgeous so we decided to explore outside after a quick pit stop at the hotel’s gift shop. I usually expect touristy things from a hotel shop but this one was nicely curated with specialty NYC themed books (for adults and kids), toys and other trendy items. The friendly guy working there started talking photography with my husband so my daughter and I could happily browse.

Be sure to check out the great gift shop at Conrad, New York.

Be sure to check out the great gift shop at Conrad New York.

For lunch, we stopped at Hudson Eats, the family friendly food hall upstairs at Brookfield Place, which features a variety of upscale quick serve restaurants and a huge seating area with waterfront views. From sushi, bagels, pizza and sandwiches to salads, tacos, burgers and cupcakes, everyone in the family can find something to eat. I almost always order a Num Pang sandwich while my daughter and husband usually grab a burger, grilled cheese, pizza or sushi.

Downtown NYC has a lot of sights that most tourists never see. I highly suggest the walk from Brookfield Place to Battery Park which is along the Battery Park City Esplanade. There are no cars along the paved promenade making it very easy to roam with kids and you will spot interesting sights (Statue of Liberty!), lookout points, grassy spots and great playgrounds along the way…

Battery Park City Esplanade is a favorite spot for families to explore. Staycation Fun at Conrad, New York.

Battery Park City Esplanade is a favorite spot for families to explore. Staycation Fun at Conrad New York.

Battery Park is full of adventures for tourists and locals alike and if you have an afternoon or full day, I highly recommend you visit the Statue of Liberty, ride the gorgeous Seaglass Carousel or take a sail aboard the Staten Island Ferry.

We stopped by the Cool Globes art exhibit just at the top of Battery Park to check out the amazing oversized globes on display.

Checking out the Cool Globes. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad, New York.

Checking out the Cool Globes. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York.

Then we headed back home to the hotel with a stop at the West Thames Park. Love these stunning Freedom Tower views.

Downtown New York City has a variety of playgrounds. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad, New York.

Downtown New York City has a variety of playgrounds. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York.

After a quick change, we headed back over to Brookfield Place for dinner. There are always fun art exhibits going on in the gorgeous palm tree filled glass atrium and we got to see the famed Luminaries display which features hundred of changing lights that coordinate to holiday songs. If you are in the area over the winter holidays, be sure to check it out.

Luminaries at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad, New York

Luminaries at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad, New York

We had a delicious dinner at Beaubourg in Le District and we were so happy we could just walk home after our long day. If you love French cuisine, Le District is a gourmand’s haven filled with restaurants and shops selling everything from meats and veggies to pastries and French candy.

Le District in Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad, New York

Le District in Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York

I really love having a suite when we travel since my daughter usually goes to bed around 8 pm and I like to stay up later. It was so nice that our Conrad New York suite allowed my daughter to fall asleep while my husband could stay up late without having to be quiet or keep the room dark.

My daughter loved having her own space at Conrad, New York.

My daughter loved having her own space at Conrad New York.

After a great night’s sleep, my daughter and I enjoyed lounging around reading while my husband checked out the in-room Nespresso coffee machine. We had a nice relaxing morning and headed to our 10 am brunch reservation at Atrio in the hotel’s lobby. Of course, our new pal Hudson joined us.

Young travelers receive a stuffed Conrad bull at Conrad, New York.

Young travelers receive a stuffed “Hudson the bull” at Conrad New York.

We chose the breakfast buffet which was loaded with pastries, bagels, and yogurt parfaits along with eggs, bacon, potatoes and other breakfast items. The restaurant features river views behind sparkly “curtains” that mesmerized my daughter and Hudson. In addition to weekend brunch, Atrio also serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and features an Instagram-worthy wall of wine.

Atrio at the Conrad, New York features a stylish dining room with river views.

Atrio at the Conrad New York features a stylish dining room with river views.

We spent the rest of our day checking out the nearby attractions like the Regal Battery Park movie theater (which you can enter from the hotel!), department stores (hi Saks), restaurants (including Danny Meyer signature spots) and the shiny new Oculus which houses some amazing retailers, eateries and the newest Eataly (think everything yummy from Italy under one roof).

After thoroughly exhausting ourselves in a good way, we headed back to Conrad New York to grab our bags and say goodbye.

Thanks for a great staycation at Conrad, New York

Thanks for a great staycation at Conrad, New York

If you want a pampering family friendly hotel stay with a great location to explore downtown, NYC, I highly recommend Conrad New York.

Have you ever stayed downtown? Tell me your favorite attractions in the comments below.

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A very special thanks to Conrad New York for providing accommodations, breakfast and skating lessons. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

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4 CommentsFiled Under: architecture, Decor, Design, Food and Drink, New York, reviews, Staycation, Travel, Travel Tips, United States, Where To Go Tagged With: Battery Park, Brookfield Place, Conrad New York, Downtown, family friendly NYC, Family Travel, Manhattan, New York, NYC, Staycation

2016 Holiday Gift Guide …

December 13, 2016 By admin

The holiday season is here so don’t wait until the last minute to get your mom (or wife) a great present.  Of course, the best gifts are handmade so have your kiddo make a card or necklace to go along with one of these picks from my 2016 Holiday Gift Guide – Gifts for Moms who Travel.

2016 Holiday Gift Guide - Gifts for Moms who Travel

2016 Holiday Gift Guide – Gifts for Moms who Travel

Got a new mom who loves to travel and cook on your holiday list? She may not be able to travel around the world right now but she can give her baby a taste of exotic worldwide flavors with Around the World in 80 Purees: Easy Recipes for Global Baby Food. It is so interesting to see what other countries choose as first foods for their babies and learn about spices from all over the world, I’m sure any new mom would love this. Pair this with a BEABA babycook and she’ll be whipping up culinary masterpieces in no time.

2016 Holiday Gift Guide - Gifts for Moms who Travel

2016 Holiday Gift Guide – Gifts for Moms who Travel

Every globetrotting mom on your list will love ARMigami, the wrap that does it all. The soft fabric drapes without clinging and can be worn in dozens of styles from skirts and halters to wraps and beach cover-ups as you simply style it by folding, twisting and buttoning! I received one at the Momtrends holiday event (in black of course) and I have worn it as a scarf, halter wrap and shrug top so far. The wraps are available in a selection of colors and fabrics and they all come inside a matching travel bag making them a great gift for any traveling mom.

2016 Holiday Gift Guide - Gifts for Moms who Travel

2016 Holiday Gift Guide – Gifts for Moms who Travel – ARMigami wrap

I usually throw my regular cosmetics in a ziploc when I travel so when Stowaway Cosmetics told me about their travel-sized makeup line, I was all ears. Their seven-piece essentials kit comes with a travel pouch making it a perfect gift for any on-the-go mom. The petite cosmetics are “right sized” which means you won’t get bored with shades or have to worry about expiration dates. I love how simple the items are to use (no need for extra brushes or sponges) and how easy the eyeshadow palate is to apply. I am usually running out the door in the mornings but when I gave myself a few minutes to sample these items, my mom friends all commented how great my make-up looked.

2016 Holiday Gift Guide - Gifts for Moms who Travel

2016 Holiday Gift Guide – Gifts for Moms who Travel – Stowaway Cosmetics

Every mom I know who loves to travel also loves to take photos. If you’re looking for some photography inspired gift ideas you can’t go wrong with this chic Gold Mine camera strap from Bloom Theory Straps?  I love the Stardust with silver sequins too. For underwater photos, my GoPro is hard to beat and a new DSLR or iPhone is always a great gift.

2016 Holiday Gift Guide - Gifts for Moms who Travel

2016 Holiday Gift Guide – Gifts for Moms who Travel

I don’t like to travel with high-maintenance jewelry which includes anything that needs to be polished. The new line of Nambé jewelry is a great gift for moms who want wear nice jewelry with ease because the sterling silver pieces are Rhodium plated for a tarnish resistant finish. Whether you wear these pieces every day or once in a blue moon, not having to polish is a major plus for busy moms. My favorites are the modern pieces like multi-band rings and twist cuff bracelets that won’t snag clothing or scratch babies.

2016 Holiday Gift Guide - Gifts for Moms who Travel

2016 Holiday Gift Guide – Gifts for Moms who Travel

What are you hoping for this holiday season? Tell me below in the comments.

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1 CommentFiled Under: Beauty, Books, Fashion, Food and Drink, Great Gifts, Jewelry, Just for Moms, Photography, Uncategorized Tagged With: 2016 Gift Guide, Armagami, Beaba, Bloom Theory Straps, Gift Guide, Gift guide for moms, GoPro, Holiday Gift Guide, moms, Nambe Jewelry, Presents for Mom, Stowaway Cosmetics

Road Trips With Kids – 6 …

November 18, 2016 By admin

‘Tis the season for holiday road trips so today I’m sharing some of my favorite must haves for road trips with kids.

Road Trips With Kids - 6 Must Haves

Road Trips With Kids – 6 Must Haves

I’m hungry…

No matter how long or short the ride, you know kids will want a drink or snack within 30 minutes of leaving home. Be sure to pack everything in spill-proof containers like Drink in the Box and Snack in the Box or prepare to spend some time with your trusty dustbuster. For snacks, squeezy pouches and individually wrapped snack bars are great options along with fresh fruit and non-crumbly snacks like nuts and cheese sticks.

Road tripping with kids - be sure to bring entertainment for the whole gang. Family Travel. Globetrotting Mommy

Road trips with kids – be sure to bring entertainment for the whole gang.

I’m bored…

Do you hate hearing this as much as I do?  Prepare for trips by bringing along age appropriate entertainment for kids (and grown ups too). For tiny tots, audible CDs like Curious George and soft toys are great. For small kids, hand held toys like this adorable Rubik’s Junior Bear are great options. For school age children, I recommend Mad Libs, Highlights Magazines or other activity books, large print books, tablets like the Amazon Fire Kids Edition Tablet which comes in its own kid-proof case and gaming devices like the Nintendo 3DS which will keep kids quietly entertained for hours! It is always fun to play family friendly games along the way so bring along some cards and travel friendly games to play in the back seat like Hangman and Twizmo! Words.

I made a mess…

Wipes and ziplocs are a parent’s best friends so bring lots and lots. Be sure to pack some extra outfits and if your kids get carsick, be sure they have a few bags or a sturdy container nearby.

Roadtripping with kids. The mifold Grab and Go will easily let you fit three kids along in the backseat.

Road trips with kids. The mifold Grab and Go will easily let you fit three kids along in the backseat.

I want my friends to come…

Road tripping with friends? I just tested out the new mifold Grab and Go Booster Seat and I was amazed how easy it was to use.  Simply place it on the seat, adjust the sides according to the child’s size (age 4 to 12), slide the seatbelt strap thru the base and over the lap and secure the shoulder strap at the child’s shoulder. Sounds involved but it takes less than a minute. Best of all, it folds in half making it super easy to throw in a tote for taxi rides, carpools or traveling.

I have to go to the bathroom…

Even though my daughter has been potty trained for years, I still keep a 2-in-1 Potette Plus portable potty in my car (along with the insert bags and the aforementioned wipes). You never know how long it can be to the next rest stop so better safe than sorry.

Road trips with Kids - Be sure to bring along some favorite tunes.

Road trips with Kids – Be sure to bring along some favorite tunes.

I don’t like that song…

I’m not sure what’s more tolerable, listening to kids’ whining or kids’ music. I know my daughter is definitely happy when her favorite tunes are playing in the car so I highly recommend bringing along some kid-friendly music. For tots, this means Elmo (sorry!) and Laurie Berkner types. For older kids, you can’t go wrong with some Kidz Bop (33 albums can’t be wrong), Space Pop Girls or soundtracks to their favorite movies or shows.

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I received some of these items for review purposes but all opinions are my own. This post contains some affiliate links. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

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1 CommentFiled Under: Books, Car Seats, Don't travel without, Electronics and Gadgets, Entertainment, Food and Drink, Just for Boys, Just for Girls, Just for Kids, Just for Moms, Products I love, reviews, Road Trip, Summer Travel, Teen Travel, Toys, Travel, Travel Tips Tagged With: booster seat, electronics, Family Travel, Family-friendly, Kidz Bop, mifold Grab and Go, portable potty, Road trips, toys, travel games, travel snacks

Must-Have Travel Gadgets for …

October 25, 2016 By admin

If you’re like me, you love any gadget that makes traveling a little easier. If you’ve got a trip coming up, be sure to check out these handy Must-Have Travel Gadgets for globetrotting families…

Must Have Travel Gadgets - Globetrotting Mommy

Must-Have Travel Gadgets – Globetrotting Mommy

PHOTOGRAPHY HELPERS

Family trips call for family photos and sometimes you just need a selfie stick to get everyone in the photo. The best selfie sticks are Bluetooth activated and hold a long lasting charge. Another great option is a GorillaPod which can be used as a tripod or wrapped around something sturdy.

Must Have Travel Gadgets - Snack and Drink Containers

Must-Have Travel Gadgets – Snack and Drink Containers

SNACK AND DRINK CONTAINERS

Eating on the go requires some advance planning so I always like to pack healthy snacks and drinks in sturdy containers like Drink in the Box and Snack in the Box.  The rectangular shapes take up less space in my bag and they are so easy for little hands to handle.

CHARGERS

Chargers, chargers, chargers!  If you lose juice in the middle of a trip, you’ll be sorry so be sure to bring along a reliable charger for every device. Lipstick-sized phone chargers are handy but test them at home to see how long they will power up your devices on the go. And, if you’re spending a day at Disney World, you will definitely want to bring along a heavy duty brick style cell phone charger.

Must Have Travel Gadgets - Accell Home or Away Power Station. Globetrotting Mommy

Must-Have Travel Gadgets – Accell Home or Away Power Station.

PORTABLE POWER STATION

Accell Home or Away Power Station – Hotels are notorious for not having easy to reach outlets so I’ve started traveling with this handy three outlet surge protector.  I love that it features three power outlets plus two USB ports so I can charge my phone, laptop and camera at the same time. Just fold down the prongs and throw it in your bag.

SEASONAL GADGETS

After the great purse flood of 2016, I’m paranoid about any and all water damage – like keep my car key fob in a ziploc paranoid. Because I’m often using my iPhone to take photos, I love using a waterproof phone case when I’m at a water park or pool. If you’re heading on a snow vacation, this handy snowball maker will keep kids entertained for hours.

Must Have Travel Gadgets - TSA Approved Luggage Locks

Must-Have Travel Gadgets – TSA Approved Luggage Locks

LUGGAGE LOCKS

TSA approved luggage locks. Checking luggage definitely causes anxiety but when you’re traveling with kids on a big journey, you won’t have much of a choice. With these handy locks, TSA can get in if necessary but others can’t. Such a small price to pay for peace of mind.

Do you have any must-bring travel gadgets to add?

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1 CommentFiled Under: Airplane, Don't travel without, Electronics and Gadgets, Food and Drink, Packing, Products I love, Summer Travel, Travel, Travel Tips Tagged With: drink box, Gadgets, luggage locks, phone case, phone charger, power station, selfie stick, snack box, Travel, travel gadgets

Tips for Visiting Nickelodeon …

September 21, 2016 By admin

What’s a great spot for a family vacation? Everyone asks me that question and today I’m sharing my new favorite answer…

My 6-year old daughter and I just returned from the brand new Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana where young Nickelodeon fans and luxe resort loving parents can kick back and enjoy a five-star Caribbean beach vacation wrapped up in an easy to plan, all-inclusive experience. With gorgeous beaches and pools, plush accommodations, entertainment for all, five-star culinary experiences, pampering amenities and water park fun, Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana is sure to please parents and kids alike. Here’s what you need to know…

Tips for Visiting Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana, Globetrotting Mommy, All Inclusive, Family Travel

Tips for Visiting Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana

Tips for Visiting Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana

  • BRING SMALL BILLS – Staying at an all-inclusive resort is the key to a relaxing family getaway for me as I can say “yes” to kiddie-coladas without calculating costs. Gratuities are included in the pricing but tips are always appreciated so be sure to stock up on small bills for drivers, housekeepers, bellhops and airport personnel. Tip: The Dominican Republic requires a $10 tourist card for each traveler (paid at the airport) so be sure to have cash on hand.
Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana features 208 incredible suites.

Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana features 208 incredible suites.

  • SUITES ARE SWEET – From Pad Suites and Flats to Swim-Up Suites and SpongeBob’s signature villa, The Pineapple, the resort’s 208 suites are really amazing with spacious bathrooms (think double sinks and a free standing tub), complimentary WIFI, free phone calls and a fully stocked (all-inclusive) mini-bar. For pool loving families, the Swim-Up Suites are not to be missed. Tip: Bring pool floats, kickboards and swimmies.
  • SUN PROTECTION IS A MUST – The Caribbean sun is super strong so be sure to bring along plenty of sunscreen, hats, rashguards and sunglasses for all. Beach cabanas can be reserved a day in advance and there are plenty of umbrellas around the lounge chairs at the beachfront infinity pool and Aqua Nick area. Tip: Lounge chairs at the infinity pool fill quickly so get there early if you can.
The Nickelodeon character breakfasts are a must for kids.

The Nickelodeon character breakfasts are a must for kids.

  • BOOK THE CHARACTER BREAKFAST IN ADVANCE – If you’re visiting with kids (and I bet you will be), you will not want to miss this fun filled breakfast at Zest. This was our favorite meal and a great way to mix, mingle and dance with my daughter’s favorite Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob, Dora and Paw Patrol. Tip: There are two versions each week so be sure to book the one with your kid’s favorite characters.
  • BRING SOME TOYS AND SIPPY CUPS – For young kids, bring along some age appropriate toys and activities as these items are very pricey on site. Also, drinks are served to children in real glasses which is a plus for me but if you’re nervous about that, pack some sippy cups. Tip: The airport is approximately 45 minutes away so keep some toys handy for the ride.
Be sure to order dessert at Spacewalker.

Be sure to order dessert at Spacewalker.

  • SET YOUR DINNER SCHEDULE IN ADVANCE – Many of the dinner restaurants require advance reservations so set these up at Spacewalker, Wok Wok and Verdello, the most wanted family friendly reservations. Tip: Be sure to order dessert at Spacewalker and have your camera ready when it arrives.
Sugarcane's breakfast offerings are sure to please kids and adults alike.

Sugarcane’s breakfast offerings are sure to please kids and adults alike.

  • MAKE THE MOST OF KARISMA’S GOURMET INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE – From over-the-top breakfast selections, poolside dining, casual fare and 24-hour room service to themed restaurants, bars, lounges and adults only dining, make sure to sample the dozens of dining options. Tip: Don’t miss the Machete Burger at BRGRS.PH if you’ve got a hungry crew.
The Just Kiddin' ball pit at Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana is so fun.

The Just Kiddin’ ball pit at Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana is so fun.

  • CHECK OUT AQUA NICK AND JUST KIDDIN’ – Aqua Nick was by far my daughter’s favorite spot with its lazy river, pools, splash center, slides, water cannons, slimings and gigantic nose shower. The colorful Just Kiddin’ kids club was a close second with its giant toy collection, crafts area, video game zone and big orange slide that ends in a huge ball pit. Tip: You can’t arrive at Just Kiddin’ in wet bathing suits so dry off first and bring a change of clothes.
Vassa Spa features five al fresco treatment areas, globetrotting mommy, Nickelodeon Punta Cana, Family Travel, All inclusive vacations, spa

Vassa Spa features five al fresco treatment areas.

  • STEAL SOME ADULT TIME – While the kids are enjoying all the fabulous kiddie offerings, parents can sneak away for some pampering at the 14,000 square foot Vassa Spa, one of the most beautiful spas I’ve ever seen. Tip: Book one of the outdoor massage services and be sure to leave time to enjoy the pools and sauna.
The Caribephoto team at Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana is great at capturing vacation memories on film. (Photo credit: Caribephoto)

The Caribephoto team at Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana is great at capturing vacation memories on film. (Photo credit: Caribephoto)

  • SMILE FOR SOME AWESOME PHOTOS – The resort has so many gorgeous backdrops you will definitely want to capture the family on film. My favorite spots include the beachfront infinity pool, slime time, Aqua Nick and the beach. Vacations are a great time for professional photos and the Caribephoto team took some really great photos of my daughter so be sure to check them out to arrange a family photo shoot or just look for their photographers around the resort. Tip: Bring a GoPro or waterproof phone case to capture all the fun Aqua Nick moments.

For more details, read my Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana review on TravelMamas.

What’s your favorite thing about the new Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana? Tell me below in the comments.

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Thank you to Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana for hosting my stay. All opinions are mine, as always. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

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10 CommentsFiled Under: Around the World, beach, Caribbean, Dominican Republic, Food and Drink, Hotels, Just for Boys, Just for Dads, Just for Fun, Just for Girls, Just for Kids, Just for Moms, Photography, reviews, spa, Summer Travel, Travel, Travel Tips, Where To Go Tagged With: All inclusive, Caribbean, Family Travel, Nickelodeon, Punta Cana, resort, vacation

My Favorite Back-to-School …

August 2, 2016 By admin

Tis the season for back-to-school shopping so I’m here to share some of my favorite picks. These items are perfect for back-to-school supplies but can also be used on while vacationing (win, win) so be sure to stock up.

My Favorite Back-to-School Supplies for Globetrotting Kids

My Favorite Back-to-School Supplies for Globetrotting Kids

DIY Patch Designs – Kids love to personalize their items and when I saw these colorful stick-on-patches from Easy Peasy Patches, I knew my daughter would love them. Kids can use them on clothes, hats, backpacks, school supplies, water bottles, lockers and really anything they want to customize since they are dishwasher and washing machine safe. They come in various shapes and designs and you can even go old school and use them to cover ripped knees.

Keep Valuables Safe at School – As kids start to bring more valuable items to school like phones and tablets, its always a good idea to keep them safe while unattended. Master Lock has some easy-to-use and affordable options for kids of all ages. Younger kids will love these colorful combination locks for backpacks while older kids can use a portable laptop safe on travels or in their dorms. These items are also handy when traveling or visiting water parks.

My Favorite Back-to-School Supplies for Globetrotting Kids - Back-to-School Snack Ideas

My Favorite Back-to-School Supplies for Globetrotting Kids – Back-to-School Snack Ideas

Tasty Snacks – For weekday lunch boxes or a road trip snack stash, tasty snacks are a must-have. I hate sticky fingers so I try to serve snacks that are as mess-free as possible like pretzels, snack bars, nuts, fruit (dried or whole), etc. Individually wrapped snacks and pouches are especially great for travel and classroom snacks – try brands like Ella’s Kitchen, GoGo Squeez and Earth’s Best (their new frozen fruit cups thaw in lunch boxes!) for young kids. Some of my go-to ideas for healthy options include Good Health Snacks (think veggie straws, pretzels and chips), fruit-kebabs (made with straws not skewers), yogurt and most anything from Trader Joe’s snack aisle (especially seaweed, tortilla chips, crackers, nuts and dried fruit). For more substantial snacks (think after school or traveling), protein bars like Cliff, Luna or Luckybars (especially created for picky eaters) and New Zealand Jerky are all easy-to-pack options.

Personalized labels are great for back-to-school and traveling. Globetrotting Mommy

Personalized labels are great for back-to-school supplies and traveling.

Must Have Labels – Between classes, pick-ups, after-school activities, field trips and vacations, kids have a lot of opportunities to lose their belongings. If you don’t have any more camp labels left, now is the time to stock up for fall. I love Mabel’s Labels because they are indestructible, stylish and super easy to use. This year they’ve got some new designs like zombies and emojis plus a customizable keepsake school memory book.

Bento style lunch boxes are great for school and travel. Bentology, back-to-school, nalgene, globetrotting mommy

Bento style lunch boxes are great for school and travel.

Bento Style Lunch Boxes – Kids are very particular about their meals and if you’ve got a picky eater, a Bento Box lunch with separated compartments is sure to please. I love the adorable Bentology Bento Lunch Kit that come with an insulated bag, large outer container, five bento box containers and a fork and spoon set. The slim exterior bag has pockets and a secret side bottle holder. Since my daughter complained last year because her water was inside her lunch box (making it hard to get out for snack time…) this will be a sure winner. A nice option for traveling or larger lunches is the Lunchbox Buddy from Nalgene featuring a soft Neoprene sleeve that folds around the hard case lunch box. An ice pack can be used to create separate sized compartments for food items and drinks making it very versatile. Best of all, the box top doubles as a plate so kids have a clean place to eat. I like that both of these options feature plastic outer containers which are easy to clean and quick to dry for every day use.

Leak Proof Water Bottles – School kids need water all the time (think school, activities, field trips, etc.) and one big requirement for me is a leak-proof bottle because there is nothing worse than cleaning out a soggy backpack or purse. Some of my favorites include Contigo’s Addison, Nalgene’s On The Fly, and the rectangular Drink in the Box.

Yoobi's colorful back-to-school supplies are perfect for home, school and travels. Globetrotting Mommy, Back-to-school

Yoobi’s colorful back-to-school supplies are perfect for home, school and travels.

Fun School Supplies – My daughter’s school sends around a list of back-to-school supplies every student needs to bring in on the first day for the class to share throughout the year. When they don’t specify a brand, I love sending in colorful supplies like Yoobi. With every purchase, Yoobi donates school supplies to a local U.S. classroom in need, which is really a win. The playful designs and awesome accessories are so fun and I especially love Yoobi x i am OTHER journals (presented by Pharrell Williams) which are the perfect size for school or vacation.

WallPops Maps are a favporite for Back-to-School shopping.

WallPops Maps are a favporite for Back-to-School shopping.

Removable Wall Decor – Since kids love maps, I recently added this dry erase Wallpops! Kids USA Map to my daughter’s room. She loves to point out the fun places she’s visited like Charleston, Disney World, Boston, etc. and its a great way for her to learn the states (and Capitals). I also love these dry erase calendar message boards and this cute notepad calendar which are great for students of all ages, especially teens heading off to college.

Have you done your back-to-school shopping yet? I’m starting mine this week…

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I received some of these items as samples from Blogger Bash, Momtrends and KidzVuz events. This post contains a few affiliate links.  As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

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1 CommentFiled Under: Cool for School, Decor, Don't travel without, Food and Drink, Just for Boys, Just for Girls, Just for Kids, Maps, Packing, Products I love, Shopping, Travel Tagged With: back-to-school, journal, labels, locker, lunchbox, map, school, School Supplies, snacks, supplies, water bottle

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Hi, I’m Lyla! I’ve been globetrotting with my husband, daughter, extended family, and girlfriends for years. I share travel tips, destination guides, and adventures that inspire women 40+ to explore the world. Globetrotting Mommy — and beyond!

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