Brown Girl Gumbo

Macy’s ‘Once Upon a Springtime’ Flower Show is the Stuff of Fairytales

April 3, 2018

Even though we just experienced a snowstorm in New York City yesterday, it is officially spring. If the unseasonably chilly weather has got you down, head over to Macy’s “Once Upon a Springtime,” Flower Show® for an instant pick-me up.

The beautiful blooms and pretty topiaries will surely put you in a springtime frame of mind.

For more than 70 years, Macy’s has delighted generations with fanciful florals. Every year the iconic store transforms into a lush and lavish space that keeps patrons coming back time and time again. This year’s display at New York’s flagship, Herald Square is no different. In fact, it’s more charming than ever.

With magical castles draped in colorful floral arrangements and gorgeous greenery cascading from the ceilings, you’ll be transported to an enchanted garden that’ll make you forget you’re in the city that never sleeps.

With storybook themes abound, this year’s Flower Show is one that people of all ages will enjoy. You’ll find noble knights, flower-breathing dragons, scary dungeons and other nods to fairytale folklore throughout the store—making it an experience you won’t soon forget.

Now until April 8^th, visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and retreat into this blossoming oasis filled with lovely florals and plants. Simply put, walking into the store was a fragrant breath of fresh air. I took my kids this past Friday and they fell in love with all the displays and enjoyed the wondrous journey.

Check out some pics from our recent visit:

To find out what’s happening at Macy’s Herald Square Flower Show ®, be sure to head over to www.macys.com/social/flower-show/new-york/ or www.macys.com/events. The show is currently at their three flagship stores in Chicago, New York and San Francisco.

Have you ever attended a Macy’s Flower Show®? What’s your favorite flower?

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Sesame Place Becomes First Certified Autism Center Theme Park

April 2, 2018

April is National Autism Awareness month and Sesame Place has some great news to share.

Today, the nation’s only theme park based entirely on the award-winning show “Sesame Street,” in conjunction with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), announced the completion of a staff-wide autism sensitivity and awareness training at the theme park.

Essentially, this news means that families with autistic children can find solace in knowing that they can visit this Pennsylvania-based park, located 30 minutes from Philadelphia and 90 minutes from New York City—and be in good hands without compromising the fun.

The completion designates Sesame Place as a Certified Autism Center (CAC) as distinguished by IBCCES, making it the first theme park to receive such a distinction.

Because of that certification, Sesame Place is required to provide ongoing training to ensure that team members have the requisite knowledge, skills, temperament, and expertise to interact with all families and children with special needs, specifically on the autism spectrum. Training takes place in the areas of sensory awareness, environment, communication, motor and social skills, program development, and emotional awareness as well as a comprehensive autism competency exam.

“As the first theme park in the world to complete the training and become a CAC, Sesame Place is better equipped to offer families inclusive activities for children with autism and other special needs,” Cathy Valeriano, Sesame Place park president, said in a release.

The theme park’s website will add a pre-planning sensory guide to help families map out their visit—considering their child’s specific needs and requirements. In addition, the theme park will add two sensory rooms, located on Sesame Island with adjustable lighting, and a comfortable seating area for guests to take a break.

Sesame Workshop has always been a leader in preschool education so it comes as no surprise that the company’s commitment to helping children grow smarter, stronger and kinder would also apply to its theme park. In fact, Sesame Workshop launched the “Sesame Street” and Autism: See Amazing in All Children initiative in 2015 and Julia, a Sesame Street Muppet with autism, made her debut—providing children with a character that helps them understand the condition better. Julia can also be seen in real life throughout the theme park greeting children eager to meet her.

Photo Courtesy Sesame Workshop

While I don’t have children on the autism spectrum, I am happy to learn that families who do will have a place where they can have fun with furry friends like Elmo, Big Bird, Abby Cadabby and the rest of the Sesame Street gang while enjoying rides like the brand-new Oscar’s Wacky Taxi rollercoaster (opening April 28), parades and other family-friendly activities.

While it’s always a sunny day at Sesame Street and Sesame Place, today the sun’s shining a little brighter.

Have you ever visited Sesame Place?

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Acrobuffos’ ‘Air Play’ is a Breathtaking Show for the Entire Family

April 2, 2018

This past Good Friday, I took my two kids (ages 8 and 4) to see “Air Play” at the New Victory Theater in the city.

Created and performed by the Acrobuffos, husband and wife team Seth Bloom and Christina Gelsone—the two portray curious young siblings on a circus-style journey of mind-blowing tricks and mesmerizing thrills all generated through the limitless splendor of air flow.

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Photo by Florence Montmare

The 60-minute show is a mix of comedy, aerodynamic science and nonstop “oohs and aahs.” Aimed at children age 5 and up, the performance had everything to keep kids of all ages entertained. From gigantic, bouncing balloons to on-stage confetti and Styrofoam-filled twisters triggered by the physics of air, the Acrobuffos know how to evoke a sense of wonder for all attendees. Plus, the show is jam-packed with engaging audience participation, creating a memorable afternoon.

Located in the heart of Times Square, the newly remodeled New Victory has been my family’s go-to spot for incredible live theater for children. Throughout the years, we’ve seen dozens of shows and they’re incredibly entertaining, educational and always fun.

“Air Play” runs at New Victory Theater through April 15. Click here for ticket information.

What shows are you looking forward to taking your children this spring/summer?

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3 Easy No-Dye Easter Egg Decorating Tips

March 30, 2018

With Easter less than 48 hours away, it’s officially crunch time for those who observe the religious, springtime holiday.

Since it’s one of my favorite celebrations, prepping for the big day is sort of a big deal. From fun egg hunts to festive décor to bunny-shaped baked goods, I go all out when it comes to gearing up for the most egg-citing day of the season.

While my kids love to dye eggs in pretty pastels and saturated colors, sometimes we moms may want to do something a bit more sophisticated. For example, if you’re having guests over for dinner, kiddie colors won’t cut it (unless that’s the look you’re going for). Instead, set the table with elegant, eye-catching designs that still represent the holiday, but with a more refined approach.

Evite, the popular e-commerce invitation and party planning brand has several easy DIY ideas to help elevate your Easter egg-decorating game. These simple crafts will make your Easter gathering eggs-tra special!

Check out the clip below:

Do you dye eggs for Easter? Would you ever try some of these DIY ideas?

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‘Sherlock Gnomes’ Hits the Big Screen March 23

March 21, 2018

I don’t know about you, but my kids are so excited to see Gnomeo and Juliet team up again in the new animated sequel “Sherlock Gnomes,” which hits theaters Friday, March 23^rd.

They’re back on the big screen with even more fun backyard antics that the entire family will enjoy.

After a string of garden gnome disappearances in London, Gnomeo and Juliet look to legendary detective Sherlock Gnomes to solve the case of their missing friends and family.

Paramount Pictures “Sherlock Gnomes” hits theaters this Friday, March 23rd.

With spring underway, (although New York City didn’t get the memo) it’s the perfect movie to celebrate the new season. Plus, who doesn’t love cute little garden ornaments? To see them come to life in a larger than like way will surely bring smiles to kids’ faces—my daughter included. When she saw the trailer a couple of weeks ago in the theater, she looked at me and said, “Mommy, we must see this movie!”

The film stars the voices of legendary actor Johnny Depp, Emily Blunt, James McAvoy, Mary J. Blige and Chiwetel Ejiofor. With a lineup up like that, I’m pretty sure this computer-animated comedy will be a joy to watch.

Spring into action and get your tickets to see it this weekend with your family. We can’t wait!

To celebrate the upcoming release, my kids had a fun time creating a DIY gnome hat and beard, as well as their own ceramic garden gnomes.

Check them out below:

Below, check out the trailer:

Are you planning to see “Sherlock Gnomes” this weekend? Did you see the original, “Gnomeo & Juliet?”

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

10 Date Night Ideas: Disney Cruise Style

March 19, 2018

You already know better than to think Disney Cruise Line is just for kids, right? Well, if you weren’t aware, keep reading.

I recently attended the 2018 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration (#DisneySMMC), which included 3-days at the Walt Disney World Resort and a 3-night sail aboard the beautiful Disney Dream. Talk about a magical vacation. While Walt Disney World is truly heaven on earth, a Disney cruise is heaven on the high seas.

It’s obviously jam-packed with fun family activities, but also offers a wide variety of cool things for couples to do too. From catching a movie to arranging a romantic evening on the adult-only deck, the opportunities to reconnect with your significant other abound.

Disney Cruise Line boasts four vessels currently in commission with three more coming in 2021, 2022 and 2023. The current fleet offers five-star adult-only dining, adult-exclusive areas of the ship, chic lounges, state-of-the-art movie theaters, topnotch spas and more!

Since my husband and I live in a different state from our closest relatives, date nights are few and far between. Needless to say, we were pretty excited about spending some quality time alone. Our main priority was seeing the newly-released “Black Panther” movie sans kids. One word: awesome! We also checked out a few of the lounges, nightclubs and relaxed on the deck.

If you’re wondering how parents can squeeze in a date night with kids, don’t worry—Disney has you covered! Disney Cruise Line provides top-of-the-line childcare services for newborns (It’s a Small World Nursery: 6 months to 3 years) and children (Disney’s Oceaneer Club/Disney’s Oceaneer Lab: ages 3 to 12), as well as clubs and safe hangouts for teens that stay open well after 10pm. Rest assured that when your kids aren’t with you, they’re always in good hands. Oh, and trust me—they’re having a blast while they’re away. Our kids never wanted to leave the Oceaneer Club.

While we didn’t get the opportunity to take a whirl in the whirlpool, treat our palates to exquisite cuisines, or receive a relaxing massage, we still managed to experience a lot of what Disney Cruise Line offers for adults and couples.

Below, check out a list of all the wonderful things you and your sweetie can do while cruising on Disney’s Dream:

Eat like royalty: Indulge in fine dining at Palo, a northern Italian-themed restaurant or Remy, a French inspired eatery—two of the the adult-only dining options aboard the ship.

Catch some waves: Relax on the adult-exclusive side of the ship and watch the mesmerizing waves in a serene setting.

Get your feet wet: Grab your bathing suit and watch all of your worries disappear as you take a dip at Quiet Cove Pool.

Listen to live tunes: In the lobby, enjoy smooth sounds from musicians including incredibly talented pianists and violinists.

Pamper yourself: Melt away stress by treating yourself to a massage at Senses Spa & Salon

Schedule some screen time: Catch first-run features and other new movies releases and classic blockbusters in the beautiful Buena Vista Theatre.

Chill out: Grab a soft-serve ice cream cone from the deck (after hours of course) and chill out with your mate.

Pop some bottles: Nothing says “date night” like having a nice drink with your spouse. Set the mood and have a sip at Pink, a posh champagne and wine bar with cushy pink banquettes and a glittering chandelier.

Dance the night away: Put on your dancing shoes and head to one of the nightclubs like The District or Evolution and get lost in the music.

Embrace cabin fever: If you have a verandah and don’t want to venture out, stay put—order room service and lounge in the comfy chairs while listening to the sounds of the ocean with your love.

As you can see, Disney Cruises aren’t just for kids. There are plenty of magical adult activities to make it a dream vacation to remember!

Have you ever gone on a Disney Cruise? If so, what was your favorite adult activity?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Featured, Features | 1 Comment

‘Muppet Babies’ Reboot Set to Premiere on Disney Junior March 23

March 19, 2018

When I first heard that the “Muppet Babies” was getting a reboot on Disney Junior, I nearly jumped off the couch with excitement.

On March 23, the lovable felt, playroom friends are returning to television after nearly 30 years—hence, my giddiness over the news.

See, the “Muppet Babies” is my all-time favorite cartoon. As an ‘80s baby, the series was a staple in my Saturday morning cartoon rotation. Because it was such a fond childhood memory, I’ve always wished I could share the series with my children—now I can.

The reimagined, CG-animated series premieres with two back-to-back episodes in less than a week (Friday at 10am ET) and I don’t know who’s more excited, the kids or me. I get to relive a bit of my childhood while my kids are introduced to new lovable characters.

Disney Junior

Like the original Emmy-nominated series, “Muppet Babies” chronicles the always-fun adventures of the younger versions of Kermit the Frog, Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, Animal (bonnet and diaper-free) and a brand-new playmate, Summer Penguin—as they use their imaginations to go places far beyond their playroom.

The series encourages young viewers to unlock their imaginations and dream big, which is what I tell my children all the time. In every episode, through a rainbow transition, the Muppet Babies use their imaginations to transport them into a fantasy sequence, each with a distinct style ranging from collage, comic book and classic cartoons to live-action footage—just like the original. While spotlighting the comedy that the characters are known for, each story is also designed to introduce viewers to the unique problem-solving power of imagination.

Disney Junior

If my excitement for the upcoming show could get any higher, it reached a fever pitch when I got the opportunity to get a sneak peek of the series. Last month during the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration (#DisneySMMC), an invitation-only professional conference for social media-savvy mom bloggers hosted by Disney, I had the pleasure of seeing the first episode, “Sir Kermit the Brave.” Attendees got the scoop from Tom Warburton, the series’ executive producer on how the reboot came to be, as well as other fun tidbits about the project.

If you’re wondering if Miss Nanny is still in the picture, rest-assured—she is! Her trademark green-and-white striped tights have been updated with patterns (i.e dinosaurs, etc.) that serve as clues about each episode. However, if you’re hoping you’re going to get a glimpse of her, you’re not in luck. True to the original series, viewers will never see Miss Nanny’s full body. I was happy this element remained unchanged.

One change I was thrilled about was the addition of Summer Penguin. She’s smart, spunky and brings some girl power to the series. Now, Piggy will have a partner-in-crime when it comes to hanging tough with the boys.

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Tom Warburton, executive producer, Muppet Babies with my son, MJ during the 2018 Disney Social Media Moms Conference in the Bahamas.

After Tom’s presentation, he met with us moms to chat further. I took my preschooler son, MJ, to meet him. After telling him his favorite Disney characters, MJ received a cool, autographed poster and got a picture with the man responsible for spearheading a series that will hopefully create lasting memories for him like the original did for me.

Get to know the new Muppet Babies here: