Health

CHARM IT! Event Recap & Design-A-Charm Contest

April 21, 2015

If you have a little girl in your life between the ages of 5 and 14, chances are you’re pretty familiar with CHARM IT!

This past Saturday, the novelty jewelry brand in partnership with Crayola hosted a super girly event celebrating their 2015 Design-A-Charm Contest. Held at the uber trendy Dylan’s Candy Bar on the Upper East Side, my mini-me and her best gal pal were treated to tasty pastries, including Magnolia Bakery cupcakes and of course candy!

Throughout the event, those in attendance were given entry forms to create and submit their best drawings using Crayola (crayons, pencils & markers) for a chance to have them turned into actual charms. Having the girls look through the yearbook of whimsical creations, which included everything from a pair of headphones to palm trees allowed them to use their imaginations.

The contest was a creative activity that my daughter and her BFF really enjoyed, but that wasn’t where the fun ended. After the aspiring charm designs were drawn—the kids got camera-ready with fun props and took cute pics at the photo-booth station.

We had a fantastic time coloring, mingling and especially, indulging in sweets. Now our fingers are crossed in hopes that their designs made the cut.

If you’d like for your child to participate in the charming contest, you’re in luck! The contest runs through May 6th so you have to act FAST!

Simply click on the photo below to enter:

Did you collect charms as a little girl? Or do you STILL collect charms from adult jewelers like Pandora, etc?

Category: Health, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 2 Comments

Get Spring & Easter Styles for Less at The Children’s Place

March 27, 2015

If you’re looking for stylish Easter and spring fashions, look no further than The Children’s Place.

This season the store is stocked with plenty of trendy apparel perfect for school, play dates and weekends. I’ve been shopping at the fashionable and affordable store for just about every occasion since my daughter’s birth five years ago. It’s been my go-to for everything from dresses to headbands (she collects them!) and everything in between. So of course when my son was born, I continued to go there for cute and comfy tees, jeans and outfits for him as well.

My daughter, Ava, wearing one of her favorite dresses from The Children’s Place spring offerings.

Right now I’m completely obsessed with the retailer’s cheery animal motif dresses. They’re so adorable for little girls—especially for those with pets. They’re playful and whimsical just as kids’ clothing should be.

With Easter rapidly approaching next Sunday, be sure to drop by your local TCP—I promise you won’t be disappointed!

Check out some of these look-at-me styles:

Photo-Real Skater Dress available here, $17.50

Gingham Bow Tie available here, $4.20

Oxford Shirt available here, $13

Dotted Jeggings available here, $10

Dotted Flared Dress available here, $30

Argyle Sweater available here, $13

Chambray Vest available here, $9.50

Photo-Real Donut Stack Socks available here, $4.20

Where do you stock up on kids’ clothing? Have you bought your kids Easter outfits?

Category: Fashion, Health, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle | 1 Comment

Product Review: Get Happy Feet with the Emjoi Micro-Pedi

March 2, 2015

I don’t know about you, but this winter is wreaking havoc on my skin—from head to toe!

My face is certainly feeling the wrath of Old Man Winter, but my feet seem to be catching the most heat, er, brunt of it. Thank goodness for the Emjoi MicroPedi!

Emjoi Micro-Pedi available at CVS, $29.99

This pampering little gadget has been a lifesaver for my soles. It scrapes off the toughest calluses effortlessly. The battery-operated rotating roller gently nicks away dry skin that’s hardened and thickened due to the lack of moisture. Remember, winter tends to strip our skin of its natural oils that keep it supple and soft. That’s why it’s important to keep skin adequately hydrated with moisturizing lotions and creams during cold-weather months. But, let’s get back to the MicroPedi…

While it might be tempting to firmly press it against stubborn calluses, don’t try it. The device is smartly designed to slough away dead skin easily without having to put forth much effort. If you press too firmly, it could potentially damage your skin or cause the device to malfunction.

I’ve been using it right after I get out the shower when my skin is supple. But, I make sure that my feet are thoroughly dried before using the MicroPedi, as the directions suggest. After a few rolls back and forth, my feet are left feeling smooth and super soft. I wish there was a compartment to catch the dead skin for easy disposal, but a thorough rinse cleans it off too. Plus, it also comes with two rollers for added use.

So, if you are looking to give your feet some much needed TLC, stop by your local CVS and pick one up. Trust me, your feet will thank you!

What do you use to get rid of ugly calluses during the winter?

Category: Beauty, Health | Leave a Comment

Get Eczema Relief with Aveeno Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream

February 2, 2015

Being a beauty editor and blogger for nearly a decade, I’ve tried countless moisturizing creams and various lotions, but Aveeno continues to be the overall best for me and my family.

Since my son and I both suffer from eczema, Aveeno has been my go-to for soothing our problematic skin. I’ve been using Aveeno Active Naturals Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Lotion on me and the baby formulated version on him for a little over a year. Both of the colloidal oatmeal-based moisturizers hydrates while calming our dry, itchy and irritated skin.

Not only does it soothe, it also prevents the recurrence of dry skin by acting as a protectant and barrier. Now that we’re well into winter, I’ve been slathering it on even more since this time of year is when our eczema flare ups are more frequent.

Aveeno Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream available here, starting at $9.99

Like most moms, I am very particular and careful when it comes to what products I use on my children. But I feel confident using Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Moisturizing on my son because it isn’t made with harsh chemicals or packed with ingredients that I can barely pronounce. Plus, it’s completely steroid and fragrance free, which of course scores points in my book.

Don’t just go on my word, this cream is clinically proven to reduce the flaking, itching and irritation associated with eczema. If you suffer from the skin condition, definitely give Aveeno’s entire eczema line a try. Trust me, your skin will thank you.

Do you suffer from eczema? What do you use to help treat it?

Category: Beauty, Health | 2 Comments

Get Lifted: 5 Inspirational Books to Help Combat Winter Blues

January 13, 2015

After the holidays, cold and gloomy winters can get even the most optimistic people down. I’ve noticed that my typically upbeat attitude tends to take a slight dip during this time of year.

In fact, according to reports Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—depression caused by seasonal changes, affects over half a million Americans. Far too often we’re beginning to hear about how devastating depression can be for us BGs. That’s why it’s important to keep our mental health in check in any way we can. Whether speaking to a professional therapist or spending time with a close friend, finding an outlet has to be a top priority during those depressing times.

For me, curling up with a good self-help book that inspires, motivates or encourages me helps combat those winter weather blues and boosts my mood.

Check out these five uplifting reads:

“100 Secrets of Happy People” by David Niven, Ph. D. available here, $14

“What I Know For Sure,” by Oprah Winfrey available here, $19

“A Real Life: Restoring What Matters; Family, Good Friends and a True Community,” by Ferenc Máté available here, $18

“10% Happier: How I Tamed The Voice In My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, And Found Self-Help That Actually Works—A True Story “by Dan Harris available here, $19

“Essence Presents Better Than Alright: Finding Peace, Love & Power” by Ledisi available here, $13

**If you are depressed, feeling suicidal or need to talk to someone, please click here or call 1-800-273-8255

What do you do to keep yourself in good spirits? What are some of your favorite inspiring reads?

Category: Featured, Features, Health, Travel & Lifestyle | Leave a Comment

GIVEAWAY: Take the Nivea Creme “Get More for a Dollar” Challenge

December 22, 2014

Now that Old Man Winter has officially arrived, it’s more important than ever to keep skin moisturized.

Nivea Creme is a compact and convenient way to keep hands hydrated on-the-go. Packed with jojoba oil, vitamin E, and eurcerit— a unique moisturizing ingredient that keeps skin supple and soft. Not only is the tin small enough to toss in your handbag, but it’s also VERY affordable. At only $1, this sensible must-have is a steal! That’s why I was excited to take their “Get More for a Dollar” challenge.

Nivea Creme is available at drugstores nationwide for $1

Admittedly, I wasn’t sure if it would stand up to some of my other favorite brands, but I was impressed with the results. I’ve been using it on my cuticles and couldn’t believe how much it has helped make my nail beds look moisturized and manicure-ready. My husband has been obsessed with it because it isn’t as fragrant as some of my other lotions and the circular tin design makes it easy to apply. Since he rides his bike to and from work, he was shocked at how hydrated his hands have remained after using it despite the harsh elements.

Overall, we have been pleased with the results and the price can’t be beat.

If you’re still looking to stuff a few stockings for the holidays , stop by your local drugstore and pick up a few of these tins for a win!

**Would you like to take the Nivea Creme “Get More for a Dollar?” If so, simply leave a comment on how you protect your skin during the winter months and a lucky reader will win a Nivea Gift Basket! The winner will be randomly selected and notified via email on January 5th.

Category: Beauty, Health, Travel & Lifestyle | 3 Comments

Family Fun at Brooklyn Bridge Park with Amex EveryDay Card

September 11, 2014

Last weekend, my family and I were invited by American Express EveryDay Card to enjoy an afternoon viewing party of the 2014 US Open (via jumbo screen) at Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Upon our arrival, we were given super cute picnic blankets and baskets filled with a delicious lunch specially curated from renowned chef Thomas Keller provided by Bouchon Bakery. After eating and lounging on the lawn, we took my daughter to the complimentary tennis lessons for kids. She seemed to have a blast, but it’s safe to say that she will probably not be the next Serena Williams!

After the mini tennis lesson, my hubby and I resumed our relaxing afternoon noshing on grapes, viewing the US Open, and watching the kids play nearby in the grass.

Despite living in NYC for a little over 11 years, I had never made my way down to Brooklyn Bridge Park prior to last week. I’m not sure if it’s always been so nice, but if you haven’t been there lately you should definitely plan a trip before summer’s officially a distant memory. The breathtaking view alone is reason enough to go.

We had a fantastic, fun-filled family day that we’ll cherish forever.

Check out some of my pics below:

Have you ever visited Brooklyn Bridge Park? If you’re in the NYC area, there will be a Kite Festival held at the park from 11am to 3pm on Saturday, Sept. 13. Click here for more information.

Category: Gumbo Mix, Health, Travel & Lifestyle | Leave a Comment