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Sprout’s New Animated Series ‘Dot.’ Explores Technology for the Preschool Set

October 21, 2016

Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending the New York City screening of Sprout’s new animated show “Dot.” Held at the hamburger and milkshake hotspot, Black Tap, the event was one for the books…literally.

Based on New York Times best-selling author Randi Zuckerberg’s children’s book of the same title, the celebration for the original series was decked out to perfection. The event’s producers made sure to cross their T’s and dot their I’s. From photo booths to custom milkshakes to a kid-centric hair extensions station, the afternoon wasn’t short on details.

While the event was well executed, the show matched that same level of excellence. Centered on “Dot,” the title character, the series explores the digital world through the eyes of the smart and tech-savvy 8-year-old girl. She takes young viewers along for fun adventures as she satisfies her inquisitive nature and desire to discover new things. Like most school-age children, Dot uses technology to learn, explore and play.

As a mom of a three year old and six year old, I’m thrilled that “Dot.” is bridging the gap between children’s programming and technology—and I’m not alone. In fact, based on a recent study conducted by Sprout, 62 percent of the 700 parents surveyed felt tech enhanced their child’s development and learning.

Whether we embrace or push it way, technology is a part of our lives and it’s only going to become more integrated. I believe a character like Dot who’s curious and tech-savvy will serve as a great example for children like my daughter who enjoy STEM-centric content and aspire to someday contribute to those fields. As we know, young girls and women are still being underrepresented in these areas and that has to change.

“I created Dot. to be a relatable character that helps educate parents and kids about the importance of balance when it comes to tech, and to empower girls to be vocal and involved in technology,” Zuckerberg said in a release.

You never know what will sprout in a child’s mind and this could be the very series that sparks new science and math interests.

My kids are looking forward to “Dot.” and with Sprout’s track record for producing engaging and educational original shows, I’m sure it’s going to be another slam-dunk series for the 24-hour preschool network.

Sprout’s “Dot.” premieres Saturday, October 22nd at 11am EST/8am PST. Will you be tuning in?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

Hayneedle Makes Online Shopping Easy

October 14, 2016

Adulting can be difficult, but add in that extra layer of being a parent and it can become even more challenging. Case in point: finding children’s furniture that complements adult living spaces. Ok, not the most trying problem, but still a dilemma.

Not many understand the decorating woes parents face the moment little people invade their apartments. Thankfully, e-commerce site Hayneedle has been the answer to accommodating my children without compromising our home’s style and overall design aesthetic.

Since my daughter was three years old, she’s eaten her breakfast, lunch and dinner at a pink Dora the Explorer desk. Fast-forward four years and she’s still using it—but now my toddler son is joining her at the table. To say this super bright and ultra-girly piece is a standout (not in a good way) would be an understatement—hence, my search for a gender-neutral table for the both of them.

KidKraft Aspen Table and Chair Set available here, $65

Like many New York apartments, our place is small—so, finding a table and chair set that would be sufficient without taking up too much space wasn’t easy. Hayneedle took the guesswork out of hunting for the perfect piece. Admittedly, I wasn’t familiar with the site prior to my purchase—but, better late than never, right? Although the Nebraska-based retailer offers a wide variety of items from kitchen gadgets to toddler toys, you’re guaranteed to find something to meet your needs. The site is simple and easy to navigate. Plus, the precise search options help eliminate the feeling of looking for items like a needle in a haystack.

After briefly surfing the site, I landed on the set of my dreams: a two-chair natural from. It arrived fast, within a few days and was easy to assemble (at least it seemed that way from the couch!). And of course, the natural wood blends in well with our living room. Now my kids can both sit comfortably and enjoy a meal in style.

Have you ever shopped on Hayneedle.com? What’s your favorite one-stop-shop online retailer?

Category: Gumbo Mix, Misc. | Leave a Comment

Color Me Happy: Doodling to Reduce Stress

October 12, 2016

Who said coloring books were just for kids?

For the past few years, coloring books have become popular among the older set. Adults are now realizing that drawing in swirly shapes and cool doodles can be an easy and cost-effective stress reliever.

And now that chilly weather has arrived, it’s the perfect time to tap into your inner child and unleash your creativity. Curling up on the couch with a coloring book in the fall can be the perfect antidote to a bad day.

“Bouffants & Broken Hearts” by Kendra Dandy available here, $16

For me, I enjoy coloring books that are whimsical, playful and simply speak to me. Right now, I’m totally obsessed with Kendra Dandy’s, “Bouffants & Broken Hearts.”

Fashion and pop art inspired, the book takes coloring to new, imaginative heights. Being a beauty buff, adding color to lipstick tubes and tropical fruit instantly ignites my soul. There’s something about putting colored pencils to the blank, outlined pages that produces a calming sensation. Her brilliant, quirky artistry allows me to escape the day’s hardships and unwind. I’ve already colored a few pages and can’t wait to fill in more of the funky prints.

If you’re looking for a relaxing and therapeutic way to spend some me-time, pick up this coloring book.

We can all add beauty to our lives, one pencil or crayon stroke at a time.

Do you enjoy coloring books as an adult? How do you unwind after a hectic day?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Book, Book Reviews, Books | Leave a Comment

6 Skincare Essentials for Your Travel Bag

October 10, 2016

This weekend I’m headed to New Orleans for a girls’ getaway with my cousins and sister.

I’m super stoked about finally visiting the Big Easy, but I’m still not packed. No matter the destination, deciding on what to wear while traveling is always a struggle. But, when it comes to selecting travel beauty essentials, I’m very well prepared.

Compromising my skincare routine is out of the question, so I take my on-the-go regimen seriously. Whether it’s factoring in the climate or choosing items that are spill-proof and effective – I take the time to pack products that will keep my skin glowing all trip-long.

From cleansing wipes to mini moisturizers, check out a few of my tried-and-true travel must-haves:

IT! Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream Transforming Moisturizing Super Cream – Finding a moisturizer that meets the standard TSA size requirements can be challenging, but this tiny jar is the answer to your facial hydration prayers. Available here, $16

Clinique Pep-Start Quick Cleansing Swipes – After a long day, these fragrance-free wipes can refresh skin in a single swipe. Plus, it removes dirt and makeup effortlessly. Available here, $14

Tweezerman Petite Tweeze Set – Since owning this duo kit, I’ve never traveled without it. Perfect for plucking a stray hair or two, the precision of these tweezers is unmatched. Available here, $30

Peter Thomas Roth Acne-Clear Invisible Dots – Nothing’s worse than waking up to a pimple while on a trip. Stick one of these salicylic acid infused adhesive patches and banish that blemish! Available here, $30

Honest Beauty Dependably Clear Blotting Sheets – Oily skin? Fear not. Dab these amazingly absorbent sheets onto skin for a clean finish that won’t smear or smudge makeup. Your shine-free selfie will thank you. Available here, $9

CVS Beauty 360 Moisturizing Anti-Wrinkle Tissue Eye Masks – Short on shut-eye? These eye masks alleviate puffiness and reduce dark under-eye circles so you can look alive and well.

What are some of your favorite travel essentials?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Blotting Papers | Leave a Comment

Fashion Subscription Box for Girls Delivers the Goods

September 28, 2016

From beauty to books, there’s a subscription box for just about everything and everyone. For us busy moms with growing girls, a monthly-curated box packed with stylish clothing, accessories and shoes delivered to our doorsteps seems like a dream come true. Enter: kidpik.

Launched earlier this year, the fashion subscription service caters to young school-age girls sizes 4-14. Through a few easy steps, the e-commerce site allows users to create a style profile for the little girls in your lives based on a fun and comprehensive quiz. After completing the questionnaire, her size and design aesthetic are determined and curated and sent directly to her home.

Visit kidpik here!

Unboxing not only reveals six to seven quality fashions (bottoms, tops, dresses, shoes, etc.), but it also creates a special bonding moment for mom and daughter —much like a trip to the mall. When we receive a new delivery, my mini-me squeals with excitement. We know that what’s inside will reflect her tastes and unique style. If for some reason an item isn’t quite in tune with her sartorial sensibilities, we can easily send it back, free of charge!

Plus, the frequency of the boxes can be customized to suit your needs. For example, you can choose to have one pik per season or opt to have clothing delivered monthly. Each item averages around $12.50 and you can cancel your subscription at any time.

If you’re like me and don’t always have time to shop old school style or surf the net for the latest duds, give kidpik a shot. It takes the hassle and guesswork out of shopping so you can spend more time doing what you love.

Have you ever used a subscription box service? If so, what has been your experience?

Category: Fashion, Style | Leave a Comment

GIVEAWAY: Dove Does a Body Good

September 23, 2016

Some brands become so integrated into our lives that they become an extension of us. For me Dove is one of them.

My bathroom is filled with an array of their tried-and-true body washes and each new formula gets better and better. The Deep Moisture wash is my current fave and for good reason. The rich lather swathes skin into a sudsy, frothy euphoria—caressing it like no other. The blend of nourishing and moisturizing properties penetrates and replenishes hydration deep beneath the surface.

It’s so moisturizing (even after one shower!) that I can actually skip applying lotion if I’m in a pinch for time.Plus, the ultra-calming and cool fragrance is a real treat for your senses. Not overpowering, it clings to the skin creating a pleasant aroma that stays with you all day.

Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash available here, $4.99

It’s hard to believe that a cleanser as decadent as Dove is readily available at your local drugstore. You’d think it would be reserved for fancy spas or specialty bath and body retailers, but nope, it’s conveniently sold at your neighborhood Duane Reade or Rite-Aid.

If you have sensitive skin and are often moisture-zapped, this body wash will change your life. I’m not exaggerating when I say that it will leave your body feeling fresh, velvety soft and super moisturized.

Want to try it for yourself? If so, I’m giving away Dove’s Deep Moisture Body Wash to two lucky readers. Simply leave a comment telling me why you want to give this body wash a test run. The contest is only open to U.S. residents and will run until Friday, September 30th, 2016 11:59EST. The winners will be randomly selected and announced by Monday, October 3rd, 2016.

Category: Beauty, Giveaway, Giveaways | 1 Comment

Farm Fresh Festival Promotes Healthy Lifestyle for Kids

September 21, 2016

This past weekend, my family and I had the pleasure of attending the first Farm Fresh Festival for Kids here in New York City. Held at South Street Seaport, the event was created to inspire healthy habits, featuring farm-to-table foods. The one-day celebration was the perfect way to usher in the new school year.

Organized by the Generation Fresh Foundation, Howard Hughes Corporation, Fresh Kids and a host of community volunteers, entertainers, authors and small business owners, the event was a smorgasbord of fun.

Packed with tons of interactive and experiential discovery zones, kids were able to explore how their food is grown to actually making their very own healthy snacks. From small farm animals to hands-on cooking demos, children in attendance were treated to a ton of engaging activities that promoted a healthy and happy lifestyle. Throughout the space, children (and adults!) were able to snack on Fresh Kids pretzels, popcorn and veggie straws – my kids’ favorites.

These tasty nibbles were GMO-free and contained no artificial coloring or flavors – making them a win-win. The event also offered a sports zone where kids were encouraged to get moving. Not only did the festival promote the importance of being healthy and active, it also cultivated kids emotionally. Through the Kindness Corner, children were able to write notes to sick hospital patients, allowing them to show compassion for others.

Plus, the festival also served as a benefit to raise funds for non-profit organizations working in NYC to fight childhood obesity, hunger and poor nutrition.

My two little ones couldn’t get enough of petting the farm animals and playing games, but for me the highlight was meeting Haile Thomas, a bright young lady who is a health advocate for children. At just 15 years old, she’s also a vegan chef and founder of The Happy Organization, where she educates students about the importance of healthy eating and more.

The all-day affair was surely one that my kids and I won’t soon forget. We walked away with awesome tips on healthy eating, quick-and-easy recipe ideas and a wealth of knowledge about brands and vendors that offer healthier snacking options.

With so many children being inactive and glued to their tablets and eating unhealthy snacks, the event was a reminder that we have to fuel our children with the proper nutrition they need to succeed.

How do you keep your kids active and excited to eat healthy foods?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 1 Comment

Get the Look: Taraji P. Henson’s Emmys Beauty

September 19, 2016

This cookie never crumbles.

Taraji P. Henson who plays “Cookie” on Fox’s hit show Empire, stunned at the 68^th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday.

Although she didn’t snag the coveted lead actress in a drama award for her work on the music-centric series, she certainly won top honors for her style and beauty game. Her makeup artist Ashunta Sheriff delivered the goods when it came to her flawless skin and gorgeous makeup.

“Getting ready for the Emmys is actually a fun process,” Ashunta said in a release. “Taraji is very zen and relaxed, it’s the glam team who’s not. We listen to great music and laugh, but most importantly she makes sure we have fun.”

And that fun, laidback environment paid off. Taraji, who recently launched a cosmetics collection with M.A.C, beamed with beauty as she graced the red carpet and stage. For her yellow ensemble, Ashunta kept her palette earthy and mellow to not compete with the bold Vera Wang gown.

Ashunta shared how she created her gorgeous look and how you can get it too!

SKIN

*I prepped her skin by using DERMAFLASH, which allows me to get the highest level of exfoliation plus remove unwanted peach fuzz so skin care products work ten times better.

*I used Kate Somerville Goat Milk De-Puffing Eye Balm to decrease puffiness and hydrate eyes. Then I used the brand’s DermalQuench Liquid Lift and Quench Oil Free Hydrating Face Serum. Both of these products work together to plump, hydrate and give skin that superior radiant glow.

*I applied Dior Airflash CC Primer to create an even canvas for makeup application. I love that is also has a radiance booster.

*Next, I used Perfect Blend by Ashunta Sheriff in Tan to create a natural, glowing, contoured and lifted canvas.

*I set her makeup with Milani Prep + Set + Glow Transparent Face Powder using a MAC powder brush.

EYES

*For eyes I wanted a soft rose glow affect so I used Taraji’s MAC Collection Highlight The Truth on the lid just tapping with my finger and using a MAC 266 angle brush on lower lash line for a soft smokey affect.

*Then I added Taraji Glow, a coppery gold highlight in corner of the eyes and center of eyes so they popped.

*I added Penultimate Eye Liner from Taraji’s MAC collection to give a tight precise line on the top lash line and then added two coats on top and bottom lashes with Haute and Naughty Tooo Black Lash Mascara.

FINISHING TOUCHES

*For cheeks I used Highlight The Truth from Taraji’s MAC collection on cheekbones and then followed up with Taraji Glow for highlight.

*I lined lips with MAC Cork Lip Liner then added Strip Me Down Matte Lipstick, a gorgeous nutty nude color. I added a soft pink gloss only in the center of the lips from Dior called Jersey Pink Addict Collection.

*I finished the look with MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ and I added Caudalie Divine Oil on her body along with Kate Somerville Quench Oil for the ultimate body glow.

What was your favorite Emmys moment? Are you excited that Empire returns for a third season this Wednesday?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Beauty | 1 Comment

Probiotics Keep Kids’ Tummies Happy

September 15, 2016

Now that school’s back in session, unfortunately those pesky germs that cling to kids are also making a comeback.

With classrooms being a cesspool for germs and viruses, it’s imperative that we moms protect our children as much as possible. The germ-ridden surfaces they encounter on a daily basis can wreak havoc on their immune systems. And reinforcing proper hand washing isn’t enough. Did you know that most sicknesses start in the gut? Yep, hand washing alone can’t prevent nasty bugs from entering their intestinal tract. That’s why we have to help build their systems from the inside—literally, in their tummies.

Bio-Kidz Probiotic Supplement available here.

One of the best and easiest ways to do this is by introducing probiotics into their diet. Probiotics have many benefits namely, serving as a stomach’s first defense to keep bacteria from finding its way into vulnerable immune systems. They can also help heal the damage that bad bacteria can cause.

And the really good news is that probiotics can be found in Bio-Kidz, a new beverage supplement that tastes good and protects tiny digestive systems. My daughter is a huge fan of the drinks and often asks for two at time. Available in a couple delicious flavors: strawberry and vanilla, the drinks are perfect for school lunch boxes and weekend playdates. Each bottle contains 12.5 billion bacteria – the good kind that will keep your child healthy and well all yearlong.

How do you keep your kids healthy during the school year?

Category: Baby, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | Leave a Comment

An Enchanted Experience: Cirque du Soleil—Toruk

September 14, 2016

Some things are just so beautiful that they take your breath away — leaving you searching for the words to fully justify their magnificence.

That’s exactly the case when it comes to describing the experience that is Cirque du Soleil: Toruk—The First Flight.

I had been looking forward to attending the show ever since the invitation popped up in my inbox a few weeks ago. Unfortunately, the days preceding opening night, I had fallen ill with the flu. Thankfully, the night of the show I was well enough to make the three-block trek to the Barclays Center.

From wondrous waterfalls to lava spewing craters to amazing acrobatic feats, the show was packed with fanciful performances and stunning sets. The light displays and set designs were so spectacular that my daughter incessantly asked if what she was seeing was “real.”

Plus, the costumes and masterful puppetry were spellbindingly good. The show was akin to a beautiful dream coming to life right before your eyes. It’s no secret that the imagination and sheer talent needed to bring this show to life had to be extraordinary. I tip my hat to the entire team who made the experience an evening to remember.