Brown Girl Gumbo

Preschoolers Rejoice! PBS Kids Now Available Through Amazon Channels

October 25, 2016

This past Saturday my kids were treated to a PBS Kids event they won’t soon forget.

Thanks to the recent expansion between Amazon Channels and the kid-centric public broadcasting network, the two companies celebrated with a fete fit for pint-size kings and queens.

As of last week, Amazon Prime members can now access over a thousand episodes of PBS Kids programming to keep little ones entertained and educated. For only $4.99 a month, the subscription includes access to shows that support social-emotional development and literacy skills, as well as science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills.

Held at Fishbowl at Dream Hotel in Midtown, the event was swarming with “celebrities.” Upon entering, my kids were greeted by top-notch talent—ahem, several characters from some of their favorite PBS Kids’ series like “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” “Nature Cat,” and “Dinosaur Train.” The ordinarily swanky space was transformed into an inviting, kid-friendly venue. From bowling, to face painting to skeeball, the event was a fun-filled afternoon for the entire family.

As an Amazon Prime member and PBS Kids fan, I’m thrilled that my toddler will be able to watch even more of his beloved shows.

PBS Kids has been producing enriching shows for over two decades and will continue to educate young viewers in the digital age with the help of partners like Amazon.

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If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can sign up for a free 7-day trial today! Visit Amazon for more information.

Does your child watch PBS Kids? If so, what’s his/her favorite program?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

Warner’s Bras Have Me on Cloud 9

October 24, 2016

Since becoming a mom, comfort reigns supreme when purchasing undergarments. Don’t get me wrong, I still like to look good, but gone are the days of sacrificing fit in the name of fashion.

Lucky for me, I was introduced to Warner’s a couple of years ago and haven’t looked back. Their Cloud 9 collection of wire-free bras and No Pinch. No Problem line underwear are stylish and comfortable. Their garments are made with easy-to-wear fabrics that don’t irritate or dig into my skin like some of my other intimate apparel. Who hasn’t had the displeasure of an underwire bra pinching into their ribcage? The brand’s innovative lift provides superb support without that uncomfortable underwire.

Warner’s Bras Cloud 9 ® Underwire Lift Bra available here, $40

Plus, these pieces don’t bunch or gather in the wrong places—instead they provide ease and create smooth and sexy silhouettes. As someone who needs a bit of a pick-me-up when it comes to the boob department, their padded bras deliver. Never too bulky or too loose, they hug you in all the right places and accentuate your best assets.

Oh and did I mention that these beauties won’t break the bank? From lacy panties to playful boy shorts to pretty (and pain-free) push-ups, compromising comfort for style is never in question with Warner’s.

Are you a fan of Warner’s? What’s your go-to bra and panty brand?

Category: Bras, Fashion, Style | Leave a Comment

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