Travel

Big Fun at Big Apple Circus

December 28, 2015

If you’re looking for an afternoon or evening of family fun, look no further than the Big Apple Circus!

The can’t-miss show has been entertaining circus-goers for decades and this year is no different. I recently schlepped my two little ones to the Lincoln Center for a day under the big top. At first I was nervous that my temperamental two-year-old son wouldn’t sit through the hour and a half show, but I couldn’t have been more wrong—he had the time of his life! In fact, they were both completely captivated from the beginning to the end.

Ava and MJ enjoying the Big Apple Circus. For date and ticket information, click here!

Jam-packed with crowd-pleasing clowns and amazing acrobatic acts, it’s no surprise the show commanded their full attention. While they enjoyed the entire circus, they especially liked the galloping horses portion of the show. Plus, the audience participation made the experience even better. And to top things off, there’s even a pony-riding opportunity for the children during the intermission and after the show!

If you’re in the New York City area between now and January 10th, round up your family and head to the Big Apple Circus. Trust me, it will be a treat for the entire family!

Do you and your family go to the circus annually?

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Peapod and Barilla Make Mealtime Easy

December 9, 2015

As a busy mom of two, there are many days when I just don’t have the time or energy to make a healthy, delicious dinner for my family. On those days, I’m embarrassed to admit, but it’s the usual—boring mac-and-cheese.

That’s why I’m so excited about Peapod and Barilla’s partnership! The delivery company and pasta powerhouse have teamed up to make meal planning for families easy.

They’ve created nutritious meal kits that are simple to prepare and delivered right to your doorstep! Super convenient and inexpensive, each recipe averages about $5.00 per serving, which we parents can appreciate.

Plus, the prep is already done—no need to worry about messing up measurements or serving sizes. Since the ingredients are already portioned, it makes it even easier to get the kids involved. I have my children pour the fixings right into the bowl or pot, which I’ve learned makes them more inclined to eat dinner if they’ve helped in its preparation.

Farfelle withButternut Squash (Photo: BusinessWire)

With delicious options like Farfelle with Butternut Squash and Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Spaghetti, it won’t take much coaxing to get them to consume these tasty meals. Oh and did I mention, each meal can be on your dinner table in under 30 minutes! The only think you’ll have to figure out is what to do with all of that extra time.

Currently Peapod delivers throughout 24 U.S markets including New York, Illinois, Washington, D.C. Click here to see if it offers service in your neighborhood.

Do you ever use grocery delivery services?

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Actor Taye Diggs Releases New Children’s Book “Mixed Me!”

November 17, 2015

Last week I had the opportunity to take the kids to a private reading of actor/author Taye Diggs’ new children’s book, “Mixed Me!”

Hosted by The Moms Network, the event was held at Aeropostale, a popular clothing store in the heart of Times Square. Prior to the reading and meet-and-greet, attendees were encouraged to donate gently used plastic toys to Second Chance Toys for the holidays. We were also treated to cupcakes and light refreshments.

Once the moms and kids were settled in, Taye Diggs and the book’s illustrator Shane W. Evans (also one of Taye’s closest friends) began to read the well-written tale. Inspired by Taye’s son, the book is about a little boy named Mike whose mom is described as being “rich cream and honey” and his dad as “deep brown.” His hue falls somewhere in between, which his parents explains to him as being “mixed just right!”

The story encourages children to be confident and celebrate their physical differences. While the title suggests the story’s about being bi-racial, it’s truly a universal story about embracing and accepting individuality.

Ava and MJ look on as actor/author Taye Diggs and illustrator Shane W. Evans sign copies of their new book, “Mixed Me!”

Shane, the illustrator spoke eloquently about how important it was for him to get the pictures just right. He told the audience that he specifically chose each complexion and every curl meticulously to give credence to children whose hair and skin tone might stand out from the crowd.

Surprisingly, both Ava and MJ sat attentively while the story was being read and seemed to be quite entertained.

Overall, it was a fun afternoon for the kids and me. I plan on reading the book at Ava’s school next month.

“Mixed Me!” by Taye Diggs and illustrated by Shane W. Evans is available here, $13

If you’re a parent to a young child, how do you encourage them to be confident? Please share your thoughts!

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Post Halloween Candy Tips for Parents

November 2, 2015

My family and I had a fantastic Halloween! The fact that MJ was old enough to partake in the festivities made for a frightfully fun night out.

Ava was a wicked witch, while MJ was Alvin from “Alvin & the Chipmunks,” my favorite cartoon of all time. The weather was perfect so they had a blast trick-or-treating up and down the blocks for about two hours. Their pumpkin-shaped buckets were filled to the brim with sweet treats. From mini chocolate bars to fun size gummy bears, they scored TONS of candy!

On Halloween night I allowed them to pick three pieces of candy of their choosing, which was fine. But now, they’re asking for it every day! As parents, we know that they can’t consume too many sugary goodies on a daily basis. But, if you do let them indulge, at least know the healthier options.

I made MJ’s costume by putting yellow tape on a red turtleneck and cap. Oh, and Ava’s wearing one of my dresses!

So, here are a few tricks that I’ve learned throughout the years to get through the post-Halloween treats:

*Choose chocolate – If you’re going to give your child candy, opt for chocolate instead. Super chewy and gummy candies get stuck in teeth and are cavity culprits.

*Avoid sour candies – The acidity of sour candies can eat away at teeth’s enamel, causing painful sensitivity and of course cavities.

*Set Boundaries – Limit their treats to the weekends. Let your little one know that too much sugar on a daily basis can wreak havoc on their overall health.

*Out of Sight, Out of Mind – After Halloween, put the candy away in a high cabinet or tuck it away in a pantry. If they don’t see the candy, they will soon forget about it.

Did your little ones go trick-or-treating this year?

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Event Recap: L’il Critters Fun Day at Central Park Zoo

October 14, 2015

Last week my children were surprised to a impromptu visit to Central Park Zoo.

Of course, as we moms know, things are hardly ever impromptu when involving kids. So, I knew well in advance that we had been invited to a day of fun all courtesy of L’il Critters vitamins—America’s #1 Kid Vitamin Brand.

Since L’il Critters is all about promoting healthy lifestyles for kids and families, it was befitting to have the afternoon start off with a nice warm-up routine. The activity reinforced the importance of physical activity by encouraging those in attendance to get moving with the help of the L’il Critters mascot! Who doesn’t love exercising with a larger-than-life bear? Needless to say, the kids enjoyed it.

A few of the L’il Critters vitamins that were on display throughout the event space.

Ava showing off her push-up skills during the exercise portion of the event.

Ava and the other kids giving the L’il Critters mascot high-fives.

Ava enjoying lunch before taking a peek at Steve Ettinger’s book, “Wallie Exercises.”

After the workout, the kids worked up an appetite and were presented with various healthy lunch options. Ava and MJ hardly ate anything because they were just so excited to be in the presence of the L’il Critters bear. After lunch it was time to see some animals! Unlike regular trips to the zoo, the children were led by a zoo tour guide who provided them with a wealth of information about all of the animals were saw. From penguins to grizzly bears, the zoo has plenty of attractions that will educate and entertain kids of all ages.

Once the zoo tour was over, we went back to the tent and took more pictures with the L’il Critters mascot and learned more about the brand and what their vitamins offer. Did you know that all of their vitamins are gluten-free? My kids love them and it’s always their highlight after breakfast.

Oh, if you love gummies like me, they have a line of gummy vitamins for adults under their VitaFusion division. Trust me, they’re delicious and nutritious! I like to use the Hair, Skin and Nails multivitamin since I’m still on a quest to restoring my hair’s former luster prior to having children. Plus, I could always use a clearer complexion and these seem to be helping me achieve an even skin-tone.

VitaFusion Hair, Skin & Nails Multivitamin available here, $14.50

Check out these lifestyle tips to keep your child active and healthy:

* Shop together. Give kids a small budget and let them pick out a new veggie or fruit they want to try as part of their meal.

*Involve kids in meal prep, whether it’s setting the table, cracking the eggs or making a grocery list. Kids who participate in cooking are more likely to eat better and are more willing to try new foods. Praise them for their efforts.

*Make the focus about each other – designate the dinner table a “no screen zone” by turning off the TV and leaving the phones and tablets in another room.

Does your family take multivitamins? How do you keep your kids active?

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

Get Class Picture-Perfect with Conair’s Quick Twist Hair Styler

October 5, 2015

I can’t believe we’re already a month into my daughter Ava’s school year. I’m even more shocked that her class picture day is next week!

School pictures are a big deal—at least they were when I was growing up. But, that was before digital cameras and cell phones. When I was in school, my mom would style my hair in special ways for the big day. Back in the ’80s and early ’90s that meant pressing it straight then curling the ends. Since I won’t be doing that, I do plan on using Conair’s new Quick Twist Hair Styler to create fun, twisty braided-ponytails.

Conair Quick Twist Hair Styler available here, $30

Ever since we attended the launch party for the product last month, Ava has been so excited to use it on her hair. During the event we were able to test the hair tool with the help of a professional hairstylist.

One of the hairstylists using the Conair Quick Twist Hair Styler on my daughter, Ava’s, naturally curly hair.

At first, I was skeptical that it would work on naturally curly hair like my daughter’s. To my surprise and delight, it worked perfectly. Plus, it’s super easy to use. The hair clamps into two grooves and the rotating head quickly and gently twists the hair creating effortless two-strand braids. However, if your child has short hair, this product will not work well. The hair has to be long enough to go into the clamps in order to create a twisty braided look.

So, on picture day Ava will rock her signature ponytails, but this time with a twist!

What’s your favorite hairstyling tool?

Category: Beauty, Hair, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 1 Comment

My Secret to Staying Fresh & Dry All Summer Long!

July 20, 2015

I think it’s safe to say that a large portion of the country is experiencing a pretty intense heat wave.

When temperatures reach the ‘90s and beyond, staying fresh and dry become even more of a top priority. That’s why deodorants are crucial to maintaining our overall personal hygiene. As we attempt to beat the summer heat, our sweat glands produce a not-so-pleasant smell, which can be the pits (pun intended)!

Luckily, there’s no shortage of antiperspirants to choose from—but unfortunately, we know that they’re not all created equal. Staying with the tried and true brands can be a smart move. Secret has always been a staple in my bathroom. It’s been at the forefront of the market for decades and for good reason.

Throughout the years they’ve mastered a formula that manages to keep underarm body odor at bay, while incorporating cutting-edge innovations to also keep us healthy and fresh.

Their latest offering, Secret Clinical Strength, has been my go-to for most of the summer. Its “Adapt & Respond” technology stops bacteria in its tracks reducing smelly sweat from even starting. It glides on easily and doesn’t irritate my skin. Plus, it has a pleasant scent that isn’t overpowering. It comes in three different forms: Clear Gel, Invisible Solid and Smooth Solid—but, Clear Gel is my summertime fave.

If you want to get in on the secret to staying dry and odor-free, definitely check out this new line of antiperspirants!

Secret Clinical Strength “Adapt & Responds” Clear Gel available here, $8.79