Travel

Crayola Brings Kids’ Creations to Life with Color Alive App

March 4, 2015

Like many adults my age, some of my fondest childhood memories involve drawing in coloring books—my have times changed.

Nowadays kids barely know what a crayon is because they’re so attached to their hand-held gadgets and high-tech devices.

Thanks to Crayola, kids can now combine the classic pastime of coloring with an innovative technological twist. Their new Color Alive coloring books (available in 4 different concepts including: Barbie, Enchanted Forest, Mythical Creations and Skylanders) and app (by DAQRI) is a mind-blowing interactive experience that turns colored creations into incredible animated 4-D drawings!

Crayola Color Alive Coloring Books available here, $5.99 each

During a press preview hosted by The Moms last month, I was able to see first-hand how the app works. First, download the app on either Android or Apple devices. Then, have your child color the pages from one of the books using the crayons that come with the book (you can use regular crayons too). After your little one is done coloring, simply hover and scan the device over the page, touch the 4D button and watch the magic happen!

My son having tons of fun at the Crayola Color Alive event last month in New York City.

Your kids will be amazed to see their drawings come to life. For fun, they can even take selfies with their creations and store them in your device’s photo gallery.

My daughter colored this little creature using the Color Alive app.

I’ve seen a lot of things, but I was super impressed by Color Alive. Plus, the book is under $10 and the app is free! It’s good to know that Crayola is keeping up with the times without compromising the brand’s mission—cultivating imagination!

What’s your child’s favorite app?

Category: Travel & Lifestyle | Leave a Comment

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

BGG’s Back-to-School Checklist: Get An A+ in Eye Care

August 11, 2014

It’s hard to believe that my baby girl, Ava, will be starting preschool in a few short weeks.

Like many moms, there are plenty of errands that I need to do in preparation for her big day. From shopping for school supplies to updating her wardrobe, my checklist seems to be endless. While those tasks are priorities, scheduling an appointment with her eye doctor tops the list.

Last month, I attended an event hosted by The Eye Solution/Kids Vision for Life where I learned more about the importance of good eye health. We all know that children need to visit their pediatricians annually, but oftentimes we parents forget to get our little one’s eyes checked out too. Oh, and those quick “eye exams” during routine physicals don’t count.

During the event, I spoke with several experts and learned that this oversight (no pun intended) can lead to mislabeling in school, which can ultimately have avoidable negative effects on students.

For example, a child may not be able to see the blackboard/whiteboard in class and will subsequently say the wrong answer simply because he’s suffering from vision problems. Initially, teachers or parents may conclude that the child is having academic challenges when in fact all he needs is a pair of glasses.

#171275271 / gettyimages.com

Being an ’80’s baby who grew up watching the popular ’90’s TV show, “Beverly Hills, 90210,” I was pleased to know that actress Jennie Garth, is teaming up with The Eye Solution to launch the “Get An A+ in Eye Care” campaign, a program that inspires people to help provide good eye health and vision correction for children (ages 5-12) in need across the U.S. The campaign is simple: see good, share good, and make good happen.

Plus, there’s a social media component that encourages people to “like” The Eye Solution on Facebook to help give back.” For every “like” on The Eye Solution Facebook page, (Alcon) will donate $1 up to $50,000 to help fund more than 1000 eye exams and eyeglasses for underserved children across the country.

Remember, our children’s vision health is incredibly important to their overall well-being and academic success. Don’t forget to make time for them to see an eye doctor annually after the age of 3.

Check out these Eye-Opening Facts from Kids Vision For Life:

*1 out of 4 children in the U.S has a vision problem significant enough to affect learning
*80% of learning in a child’s first 12 years comes through his eyes
*25% of all school children in the U.S have a vision problem significant enough to affect learning
*90% of children who need glasses do not have them
*44% of parents are not aware that behavioral problems can be an indication that a child’s vision is impaired

**GIVEAWAY**In celebration of Back-to-School season, I’m giving away a gift bag filled with eye care goodies for the whole family. Simply leave a comment below and a winner will be randomly selected and announced next Monday, August 18th. This giveaway is open to U.S residents only.

If you have a school-aged child at home, do you schedule annual eye exams for him/her?

Category: Giveaway, Giveaways, Health, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle | Leave a Comment

Product Review: CurlyKids Hair Care Line

July 22, 2014

We are witnessing a natural hair revolution.

For the first time in decades, we BGs are embracing and proudly flaunting our natural hair textures in droves. But, the best part of this newfound self-acceptance is that we are teaching our children to love their kinks, coils and curls too!

Thanks to brands like CurlyKids, a hair care line that caters to kids’ curly-haired needs, moms like me can comb and style our little one’s hair with confidence.

For the past six months, I’ve been consistently using CurlyKids products on my daughter’s hair. Created to treat a multitude of curly hair textures, especially those with excessive dryness and breakage, the line includes: shampoo, conditioner, gel, control paste, curl defining lotion and detangling sprays.

CurlyKids Hair Care available here, $5 each

Usually, I tend to use a variety of product brands to achieve a desired effect or style. But, this time I wanted to see how the entire line worked together. And, I’m glad I did.

Ava getting her hair washed using CurlyKids Shampoo & Conditioner.

From the sulfate-free shampoo to the frizz-taming control paste, I’ve been pleased with how well the products complement each other. Since she has super dry, easy-to-tangle hair, I have to use products that will properly moisturize without leaving behind a greasy or sticky residue. Luckily, CurlyKids gets the job done.

Ava sporting her signature topknot using CurlyKids Curly Gel Moisturizer.

Out of the line, the Curly Gel Moisturizer and the Super Detangling Spray are my two faves. The gel is fragrance free and doesn’t create that unsightly flakey crust that we all dread. Plus, it adds moisture while taming her curly fly-aways. The Super Detangling Spray makes manageability a breeze because it unsnarls her strands effortlessly.

I achieved this pigtail look by using CurlyKids Control Paste, Gel Moisturizer and Detangling Spray.

Although the brand’s site says it’s for “mixed hair,” my daughter is 100% African-American so it’s safe to say that it’s suitable for ALL curly hair types. Oh and to top it off, all of their products are only $5!

If your little one is in need of some TLC for her tresses, definitely check out CurlyKids!

What products do you use to keep your kids’ hair looking good?

Category: Baby, Beauty, Hair, Health, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 3 Comments

Must See TV (Kids): Sprout Channel to Launch Original Animated Series ‘Astroblast!’

July 10, 2014

Being a parent of two children under the age of 5, I’m pretty familiar with Sprout. If you’re not, it’s a 24-hour cable TV channel that caters to the toddler and preschool set.

This Saturday, July 12th, the 9 year old NBC-owned network is premiering its original animated series, “Astroblast!”

“Astroblast!” premieres Saturday, July 12 at 1pm & 8pm EST on Sprout. The series will continue airing daily during “The Sunny Side Up Show” and “The Good Night Show.”

Co-produced by the children’s book publishing powerhouse, Scholastic Media, “Astroblast!” aims to entertain while educating kids. With a cast of animal characters, the series imparts important messages about how to embrace differences, model positive relationships and foster healthy eating habits all while taking viewers on exciting adventures in outer space.

My daughter has been anticipating the launch of the space-themed show for weeks. That’s why I was beyond thrilled when we were invited to attend a sneak peek of the series at the super cute restaurant, The Sugar Factory here in New York.

I was happy that Ava would get to see some of the show before its debut and I was excited to finally visit The Sugar Factory. For those who are familiar with my blog know that I am candy obsessed; so a trip to the sweets-centric hotspot was like a little slice of heaven for me.

We watched a snippet of the show as we noshed on fried mac-n-cheese balls, mini burgers, chicken fingers, french fries and other yummy kid-friendly fare. Plus, there were fruit smoothies specially made as a nod to one of the ongoing themes of the show. And, of course there were sweet treats galore. From an ice cream sundae bar with every topping imaginable to chocolate fondue to unlimited candies of all kinds, The Sugar Factory definitely lived up to its name.

If your kids are into fun-loving space creatures, “Astroblast!” is a must-see. Oh, and if you’re looking for a restaurant to take your kids on a weekend afternoon or maybe a sweet date night with your guy, The Sugar Factory is a great choice.

In addition, to celebrate the series’ launch, there will be “Astroblast! Space Camp Tour.” Free and open to the public, the tour will offer kids and families the opportunity to participate in an exciting interactive space experience complete with activities and games in the spirit of the series.

Here are the remaining tour dates: