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ROWENTA® To Host Designer Challenge on “Project Runway Junior” 

20 Jan

My kids and I anxiously await for Thursdays to arrive so we can watch Project Runway Junior together on Lifetime. The teenagers are amazing designers and are mentored by none other than the incredible Tim Gunn. Every week is exciting and nerve wracking because you await to see the new creations made but you never want to see anyone voted off. 

I’m not a designer but my father did teach me how iron to the point it look like I took my clothes to the dry cleaners for the professionals to do. He showed me how to iron everything from dress shirts to curtains, handkerchiefs and showed me how to crease to perfection. I’ve always enjoyed ironing and will wake up at 4 a.m. to start ironing for me and the kids. Rowenta itons have always been part of my ironing experience because their irons are amazing. The steam force technology is the best. Rowenta even made a Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Limited Edition iron. Now Project Runway Junior gets a limited edition iron as well. The kids on Project Runway Junior got it good. Have you seen this iron? I would love to have this iron. 

Rowenta, the leading manufacturer of high-performance steam irons, garment steamers and steam stations, announces its upcoming appearance on the premiere season of Lifetime’s fashion reality series, “Project Runway Junior.” Hosted by fashion icon and Emmy Award® winner Tim Gunn and supermodel Hannah Davis, “Project Runway Junior” is a direct spin-off of the original series, “Project Runway,” of which Rowenta has been a frequent sponsor. This will be the first time the garment care brand will host a specific challenge​

During Episode: 08 “Make a Statement,” airing on Thursday, January 21, 2016, at 9pm ET/PT, show contestants will use Rowenta’s limited edition “Project Runway” irons to execute innovative, personalized designs and take their creativity to the next level. Rowenta’s “Project Runway” iron combines unparalleled heat and steam with a superior soleplate, creating a better glide for easier use. During the episode, Rowenta’s Marketing Director, Scott Pollard will introduce the challenge to the remaining contestants alongside host, Tim Gunn.  

Rowenta has always been a leader and an innovator in the garment care industry and they are proud to support the budding designers of the fashion world.

As an added bonus for show fans, Rowenta will host a #ProjectRowenta product giveaway on their Facebook (Facebook.com/RowentaUSA) and Twitter (@RowentaUSA) pages from January 19 – 22, 2016. Three winners will receive a Rowenta “Project Runway” Limited Edition Iron with which to create their own fashion designs at home.   

For more information on Rowenta and its products, please visit: 

US Website: http://www.rowentausa.com              
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/RowentaUSA 

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/RowentaUSA, @RowentaUSA     


Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

 

LifeLock: The Smart Talk-Holiday Giving Edition

15 Dec

Disclosure: Thank you LifeLock for sponsoring this post. Please visit The Smart Talk for more tips on how to prepare your kids to develop healthy online habits. 

 
It seems like kids are born knowing how to use technology. As soon as we hand them our cell phone they think it’s the coolest device ever but little do they know the parents are concerned with online safety and protecting our kids from what’s going on in cyber world. With the holidays coming, you might be considering the gift of technology for your child. Even if a tech device isn’t topping your kid’s holiday wish list, you might be upgrading your own device, making it the perfect time to give your child your old smartphone or tablet without the extra cost. To help parents better manage kids and technology devices and usage, LifeLock and the National PTA recently teamed up to create The Smart Talk – a free, digital toolkit that gives families a roadmap to set collaborative ground rules that help strike a healthier relationship with technology.  

 When I met the Smart Tak reps at a recent Kidz Vuz event I wanted to know more about setting ground rules and signing the Smart Talk Family Agreement with my son (T.J.) when I give him his first cell phone. My son and I sat down together and agreed on healthy digital habits on his phone and signed the family contract. We had a great time. It is very easy to do. Head to http://www.thesmarttalk.org and take a look.  Included in the contract are the Safety & Privacy, Screen Time, Apps & Download for you both to discuss, also parental controls and passcodes, how many hours of screen time is allowed for your child, how much money can be spent on apps and what ratings of movies can be viewed.  

   
T.J. will be a teenager next year so some of the rules will diminish as he shows more responsibility. He’s been asking for a cell phone for a while and I wanted to make sure he was absolutely ready to own one. After agreeing on healthy limits together, a personalized, official family agreement can be stored on the computer or printed and posted at home. We printed ours out and will hang it on the refrigerator.  

 Visit The Smart Talk site to check out this free resource for parents and create your own personalized family contract to encourage healthy digital habits.

To help you get the technology conversation started with your family, use these The Smart Talk created technology gift tags to remind your family to talk about technology together before the fun and games begin. 

   
Here is the downloadable and printable one sheet of gift tags: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bxsi9BsVTS8GQjZoN3FzTWRHYUk/view?pli=1

 

Disclosure: I was selected for this opportunity as a member of KidzVuz blogger network and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

What’s Inside My Holiday Gift Guide? 

4 Dec

What are you looking for in a holiday gift guide? Who are you shopping for? Does price matter? Do you shop online or in stores? Favorite stores, websites, charities. 

I’m listing my favorite fashion, beauty, houseware appliances, tech, toys and food items. Take a look and see what catches your eye. Some even make great stocking stuffers. Giving you a few ideas. Enjoy! 

HOUSEWARE APPLIANCES 

1. Ninja Coffee Bar with glass or thermal carafe makes classic, rich, over ice & specialty coffees. http://www.ninjakitchen.com

  
2. Nutri Ninja Auto-IQ Compact System Blender. Auto-iQ Smooth Boost technology takes drink customization to the next level. A unique combination of powerful Ninja blades, high-torque motor, and high speeds allows you achieve an even greater level of smoothness than Ninja has ever delivered before—all at the touch of a button. http://www.ninjakitchen.com

   
 

3. Power Pressure Cooker XL. Available in 6, 8 and 10 quart models. Save time, energy and money. Prepares succulent meals with one touch of a button up to 70% faster than conventional cooking. http://www.powerpressurecooker/TurkeyDude

  
4. KitchenAid Mixer. Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer. Choose over 20 colors, 10 speeds and the power hub fits optional attachments from food grinders to pasta makers. http://www.kitchenaid.com

  
5. KitchenAid Spiralizer Attachment. Reinvent classic meals and inspire your culinary creativity with the versatile KitchenAid Spiralizer with Peel, Core and Slice Stand Mixer Attachment. Make fresh fruit and vegetable recipe options, from zucchini noodles to sweet and savory dishes.

   
 
TECHNOLOGY

1. HP Envy 5540. The HP Envy All-in-One printer is a great compact solution for your home and office printing, scanning and copying needs. Now, when you buy the HP Envy 5540 e-All-in-One printer, it comes with 3 months free of HP Instant Ink! With HP Instant Ink you select your subscription plan and HP takes care of the rest so that you never run out of ink and printing costs a lot less! Ink, shipping, and cartridge recycling are included in your monthly plan. Plans start as low as $2.99/month and are based on pages printed, not cartridges used. There’s no annual fee and you can change or cancel plans online at anytime. Link to HP Envy 5540 e-All-in-One printer: http://bit.ly/HPEnvy5540Printer  Link to HP Instant Ink: http://bit.ly/HPInstantInk6

FREE INK OFFER: Now through December 31st, when you enroll your printer in HP Instant Ink, you will receive six free months of ink! To decide which plan is right for you and to enroll, visit http://bit.ly/HPInstantInk6 but remember to do it before December 31, 2015! 

   
   
2. Monster Products. 24K Backfloat Speaker. This is a rugged Bluetooth shower speaker, a floating speaker for the pool, and one of the best portable speakers around. Sing along in the shower or tub or float this powerful speaker in the Jacuzzi. Bring it to the campsite or to the beach. BackFloat is engineered to keep pumping out high-performance Pure Monster Sound no matter how wet things get. http://www.monsterproducts.com

  
3. My Charge Razor Max Rechargeable 6000mAh battery. RazorMax delivers an extra 27 hours talk time for your smartphone. This powerbank comes equipped with 2 USB ports and is perfect for charging two devices at once. With a 2.4A output, the RazorMax portable charger is great for charging tablets and other power thirsty devices. http://www.shop.mycharge.com

  

4. Monster ClarityHD High Performance Earbuds. Advanced construction with reinforcement at critical stress points. Ergonomically designed, with multiple ear tips for a better fit. Won’t fall out of your ears like other earbuds. Premium sound quality at an incredible value. Superior noise isolation. ControlTalk Universal for clearer calls, simple music controls. Flat, tangle-resistant cable. Extremely lightweight. Low-profile right angle connector. http://www.monsterproducts.com 

For a 20% discount on all products on Monster, please use promo code ‘MonsterNation’ at checkout. Offer good until December 25.

  
5. Lumee Case. LED lighting on both sides of the case give you a soft and beautiful light for every occasion. Dimmer Switch to control light output and let you control the light. Rechargeable battery and charging cord. Long lasting battery that works independently of your phone. I use for my IPhone 6. Check website for your phone. http://www.lumee.com

  
KIDS COOKING TOOLS

Thanks to Curious Chef – which provides real cooking tools designed just for kids – little ones can be more involved in the baking and cooking process as they aspire to be the next Cake Boss or Top Chef! These cooking tools are specifically designed for kids 4+ with safety and smaller hands in mind, helping inspire curiosity in the kitchen. http://www.curiouschef.com

1. 2 Quart Mixing Bowl – Designed with a sturdy base and easy grip handles, the 2-Quart Mixing Bowl helps your child mix up family favorites like cookies, pancakes or brownies

  
2. 2 Cup Clear Measuring Cup – Help your kids practice math and measurements with the 2 Cup Clear Measuring Cup, complete with color-coded measurements in both cup and ounce increments.

  
3. Medium Nylon Plastic Knife – Put your kids to work chopping with the Medium Nylon Plastic Knife, which is designed to be tough on foods and safer on skin than a metal blade. Also featuring an ergonomically-designed handle, this knife is easier for little hands to grasp.

  
4. Nylon Cookie Turner — Cookies and kids go hand in hand, especially when it comes to baking. The Curious Chef Nylon Cookie Turner real kitchen tool lets your child have a part in the cookie baking fun.

  
5. Actus Lunch Box. These collectible lunch boxes are designed for PEANUTS lovers of all ages! Choose your favorites from our PEANUTS lunch boxes, utensils kit, plastic mugs and many more! http://www.skaterlunch.com

   
  
TOYS

1. Guitar Hero Live. This is the first ever playable music video network and has launched with two 24-hour channels and hundreds of playable songs.The all new Guitar Hero. One game. Two ways to play. GH Live, where you can rock real crowds with real reactions.With a continually updating library of hundreds of videos across genres, there’s something for everyone. 

   

 
2. Shopkins. Moose Toys collectible characters from your favorite shops. Also in plush, backpacks and accessories. Seasons 1-3 available now while Season 4 will be available in December. Shopkins Plush are an Imports Dragon product. http://www.importsdragon.com and http://www.moosetoys.com
 
 
3. Pie Face Game. Hasbro has done it agin with this board game for the whole family filled with fun and suspense. Someone is bound to get a pie in their face. http://www.hasbro.com 

  
4. Barbie Fashionistas. These dolls are ready for anything dressed in a look you’ll love that’s perfect for daytime and nighttime fun. The fabulous fashion is right on trend and fits their style and personality perfectly. With an amazing pair of shoes and the perfect bag, the sensational look is complete! Girls can try new styles and play out a variety of stories with this delightful doll. http://www.shop.mattel.com

  
5. Star Wars Episode 7 Remote Control BB-8 – Only at Target. This remote control BB-8 figure rolls in any direction and makes expressive droid sounds as you lead him into adventure. Collect and battle with this and other figures, vehicles, and Star Wars toys. http://www.target.com

  
 FASHION

1. Hanes Hoisery. Hanes Hosiery’s new Fall 2015 collection features innovative styles that are the perfect balance of beauty and comfort. Hanes is revitalizing legwear this season with the introduction of X-Temp technology and solution based sheers, tights and leggings that compliment women of every age, nationwide.

The Hanes Power Shapers collection integrates the benefits of shapewear into legwear with run resistant technology that keeps every woman looking polished with a flawless finish from day to night. Available in a variety of deniers and a no hose® slimmer, the Hanes Power Shapers collection provides a smooth, no lines appearance, even under the most body conscious styles.

X-Temp tights from Hanes are designed to adapt to your body temperature providing comfort throughout the day. X-Temp technology is designed to adjust to your body’s temperature and activity to keep you comfortable and confident. X-Temp tights are available in a variety of styles from core opaques to boot liners, convertibles and smoothing leggings that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.

Website: http://www.hanes.com/onehanesplace/legwear/legwear-brands/all-hanes

2. L’eggs Tights. Introducing New L’eggs Energy Tights! By combining health & well being with fashion, L’eggs Energy delivers a true “feel good, look good” combination. By leveraging Beauty, Wellness, and Comfort macro-trends, the Energy Collection provides a compelling and affordable legwear solution. By integrating 360-degree Graduated Compression (which many millennials equate with sports/fitness), L’eggs Energy appeals across generations.

L’eggs Energy comes in Tights, Footless Tights and Trouser Sock styles in sizes S thru XL. 

Found for $7.99 or less at your local food, drug and mass merchandiser like CVS!

Website: http://www.hanes.com/onehanesplace/brands/our-brands/leggs

  
3. nicole by Nicole Miller. nicole by Nicole Miller Sleeveless Embellished Jumpsuit, $68 available at JCPenney and jcpenney.com 

nicole by Nicole Miller Feather Trim Dress, $86 available at JCPenney and jcpenney.com

nicole by Nicole Miller Pave Crystal Hinged Gold-Tone Cuff Bracelet, $34 available at JCPenney and jcpenney.com

  
4. Jord Wood Watches are focused on creating timepieces that are modeled after a modern lifestyle. They value sustainability, efficiency, and experiential living. They make their watches for people who don’t just have somewhere to be, they have somewhere to go. Scratch-resistant mineral glass deployment buckle with push buttons. http://www.woodwatches.com

  

5. Heavenly Touch Denim from Riders by Lee.  Slimming Stretch denim is now softer than ever! Touching is believing with Heavenly Touch denim, the innovative fabric construction that is ultra-soft. And with the right amount of stretch, these jeans are as comfortable as your favorite sweats, but are infinitely more flattering! Soft & comfortable, slimming & flattering…look good feel great. http://www.lee.com and http://www.kmart.com

  
FOOD

1. Deep River Snacks. The high quality snack brand that “Gives a Chip” is more than just a bag of chips… they pride themselves on doing right in everything they do. All snacks non-GMO, made in a nut-free facility and contain no artificial dyes, flavors or preservatives. And each bag uses its packaging real estate to raise awareness for a specific charity!
This holiday season, Deep River Snacks is offering four special edition snack packs that make the perfect gift or stocking stuffer:

Chips & Charity – an assortment of kettle chips plus a $10 charity gift certificate that the recipient can use to make a donation to their favorite non-profit
Snack Attack – 24 bags of delicious kettle chips with 12 different flavors to enjoy

Turn Up The Heat – a collection of the brand’s hottest flavors for those who love some heat: Zesty Jalapeño, NY Spicy Dill Pickle and Aged Cheddar & Horseradish

Holiday Crunch – an assortment of red, green and white bags perfect for parties, stockings, hostess of teacher gifts and combining three of the top selling kettle varieties: Original Salted, Mesquite BBQ and Zesty Jalapeño

Party Pleasers – an 80 count box of 1 oz bags of kettle chips

http://www.deepriversnacks.com

 

 
2.Woodbridge Wine. Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi is pleased to introduce the limited-edition Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Harvest Spiced Red Blend. A unique red blend with flavors of rich red berries accented with cinnamon, vanilla, and clove, this blend is the perfect accompaniment to festive gatherings with friends and family. Available for $5.99-7.99 per 750 mL bottle, the Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Harvest Spiced Red Blend is delicious served at room temperature, or can also be heated on the stove with cinnamon sticks, orange slices and cloves, for a cozy mulled cocktail treat.

  
3. POM Juice. Sweet, a little tart, and a whole lot of healthy. Powered by pomegranate antioxidants, it’s authentic, delicious and 100% pure. There is no added sugar, colorants or cheap filler juices. Also Super Teas, Juice Blends, Fresh Fruit and Fresh Pomegranate Arils. There’s also loads of recipes available online: http://www.pomwonderful.com

  
    
 

4. Del Monte Fusion. Del Monte Fruit & Veggie Fusions come in 3 delicious flavors: Peach Mango, Apple Pear Watermelon, Cherry Fruit Trio. 1 snack cup = 1 combined serving of fruit & veggies, (contains 1 serving (1/2 cup) that is 75% fruit and 25% vegetables, per USDA Nutrient Data), No high fructose corn syrup, No artificial flavors or sweeteners, Excellent source of Vitamin C, Available nationwide for $2.99 for four 4oz cups. 

  
5. Military Match K-Cup Pods Variety Blends. Buy four boxes of our 18-count K-Cup pods and they will match your order with four additional boxes, plus our signature Military Match mug – FREE! They will also send all 8 boxes plus a signature military mug to the APO/FPO or military base address you provide – it’s all part of our MIlitary Match Gift Box Program! This gift set includes two 18-count boxes of each: Dark Roast, Cafe Special, Breakfast Blend and 100% Colombia Altura K-Cup pods and one Military Match mug. http://www.communitycoffee.com

 
6. Siracha2Go.  The perfect package for the Sriracha lover who needs to always be equipped with their favorite hot sauce. http://www.siracha2go.com 

    
  
BEAUTY

1. Alien by Thierry Mugler. Mysterious and fascinating, ALIEN perfume has the power to illuminate and reveal a radiant, feminine aura. ALIEN fragrance brings out the solar goddess in every women. … Thierry Mugler ALIEN perfume at the ALIEN perfume Source, or with refill bottles and ALIEN eco-refills! http://www.macys.com and http://www.muglerusa.com

  
2. Aveeno Positively Radiant Brightening Cleanser helps improve skinny one, texture and clarity.  Oil free, hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic. Luminous looking skin after removing dirt, oil and makeup. http://www.aveeno.com

3. Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 evens tone and texture in 30 days. http://www.aveeno.com

 
 
4. Younique Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes+ Mascara. Increase your average lash volume by up to 400%. My lashes definitely increased in length and looked full and amazing. Never seen my lashes this long before. http://www.youniqueproducts.com

 
 
5. Zest FruitBoost Shower Gel. All four Zest Fruitboost varieties revitalize with gentle moisturizers and skin-nourishing, antioxidant-rich Vitamin C. Every Zest Fruitboost 10oz tube lasts up to 40 showers, so a little quarter size amount goes a long, long way. And at a suggested retail price of $2.99, a huge boost for wallets everywhere.  Available in four luscious, fruit-filled scents — Citrus Splash, Very Berry, Peach Mango, and Pomegranate Acai. Available at Walmart stores. http://www.zest.com

  
6. Dove Hair Oxygen Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner collection, which provided 95% more volume after one wash. http://www.dove.us.com and http://www.walmart.com

  

DONATIONS:

1. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. What are you grateful for? Join our community of supporters​, patients, partners and celebrity friends and let the world know you support the kids of St. Jude.When you donate $1, you’re helping save lives. http://www.stjude.org

2. No Kid Hungry. Instead of another ugly sweater, send your family and friends beautifully designed and printed holiday cards from No Kid Hungry. 100% of the proceeds go toward the mission feeding our nation’s hungry kids. This holiday season, help us reach our holiday goal of providing 10 million meals to kids in need. http://www.nokidhungry.org

Disclosure: The HP printer/InstantInk part of this post listed under Technology is sponsored campaign with Mom Select. All opinions are mine 100% as always. All other items were either reviewed or just something I liked and added to my gift guide. 

Recap KidzVuz Holiday Party with the Perez’s 

17 Nov

Kidz Vuz Holiday Party took place at Studio 450 NYC on November 15. I love this party because it’s small and intimate and my kids get to do the networking, test out the toys, have fun with their friends and they cannot get lost. I still talk to the brands but my kids also hand out business cards and enter contests. It’s always a fun time with Kidz Vuz. 

This year Jakks Toys, Classroom Direct, Lincoln Center Kids, Wubble Ball, ThinkFun, Disney Pixar, Bway Zone, Compose Yourself, Vita Coco, Alex’s Lemonade Stand, Food For Thoughts Cards, Save The Children, Heart Of Haiti, Randi’s Brownies, Once Upon A Mattress and National PTA were in attendance.  

 Lincoln Center Kids had one of the Nutcracker costumes on display for the kids to try on or take a picture with. My daughter loves watching ballet so this was a treat for her. We also visit Lincoln Center quite a bit so it was nice seeing Lincoln Center Kids at the event. They handed out their free events guide for 2015-2016 and we got to spin the wheel to win free giveaways.  

    
 Wubble Ball was the most popular with the kids. There were balls flying everywhere. I love how soft they are and the biggest one your child can lay in and it won’t pop. The parents were getting knocked I the head but it didn’t hurt. It looks like a bubble but plays like a ball and no pump is needed. Everyone got a sample.  

    
    
    
   
Disney Pixar was promoting their new movie The Good Dinosaur that hits theaters November 25th. We’ve been waiting for this movie and won tickets to a special screening on November 24th. We also received a hat, poster and notebook. Temporary tattoos, stickers and coloring sheets were also available for kids to take home.  

 Jakks Toys made sure to bring their Star Wars collection and Disney’s Star Darlings dolls with them. My daughter took a picture with her favorite doll in hopes of winning. They were all cute.  

   
Food For Thoughts Give Back Greeting Cards is doing great things to feed the hungry. With the purchase of each card, Food for Thoughts Cards donates the value equivalent to the cost of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich to a food pantry, soup kitchen, or other organization that feeds the hungry. We wrote encouraging words on a few greeting cards. No one should be without food. 

    
    
    
    
  
    
    
    
 My daughter also loved being interviewed by KidzVuz with her bestie.  

    
 To learn about all the brands mentioned above check out @kidzvuz onTwitter or http://www.kidzvuz.com and look for the hashtag #kidzvuzholiday on Twitter and Instagram. 

Thank you KidzVuz, we had an amazing time and can’t wait for the next KidzVuz event.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. We were invited to this event through KidzVuz. Opinions are mine and my kids 100% as always.

 

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Announces New Caribbean Cove Interactive Water Play Area in 2016 

16 Nov

Jackson, NJ – November 11, 2015 – With Six Flags Great Adventure’s new Holiday in the Park event just days away, the world’s largest theme park is unveiling another thrilling expansion for 2016 with the addition of Six Flags Hurricane Harbor’s Caribbean Cove, a fun and interactive water play area.
 “Hurricane Harbor is already home to some of the most innovative and extreme water slides on the planet, and in 2016 we are excited to offer families a spectacular, new area featuring tons of splashy playtime activities along with refreshing relaxation for children and their parents,” said Six Flags Great Adventure President John Fitzgerald.

 The key features of Caribbean Cove include:  

· Active and colorful water play center with more than 55 interactive features

· Spray nozzles, jets, valves, water guns, action slide and a giant tipping bucket towering nearly two stories in the air

· Two-foot-deep, beach-entry pool

· Giant beach area with 300 new lounge chairs

· New shade canopy will provide additional respite from the summer sun

 At Caribbean Cove, kids can play for hours, and parents can choose to join in the fun or watch while reclining nearby. The play area will be located between the Taak It Eez Ee Creek lazy river and Big Wave Racer slide complex and is slated to open summer 2016. Also coming in 2016, the highly-anticipated Total Mayhem 4-D, free-fly coaster debuting next door at Six Flags Great Adventure.

 The 45-acre Hurricane Harbor water park also features a million-gallon wave pool, a half-mile lazy river, more than 25 high-speed thrill slides and another massive children’s water playground. All attractions are included with park admission, Season Pass or Membership.

   
    
  For more information on Hurricane Harbor, visit http://www.sixflags.com/hurricaneharbornj

Disclosure : I was not compensated for this post. 

 

Hyundai Tucson CUV 2016 Perez Family Review

10 Nov

Back in August 2015, Hyundai held their media event for the launch of the new 2016 Hyundai Tucson Compact Utility Vehicle. That is where I got to test drive the vehicle for the first time as everyone took a road trip to different pit stops throughout New Jersey like Lake Kanawauke, Rockefeller Lookout and many more. I fell in love with the different colors, size and how smooth the car drove on the road. The limited edition was my favorite which included leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, hands free smart liftgate, 17 or 19-inch alloy wheels, heated front and rear seats and a 5 or 8-inch touchscreen navigation system. 

  
Drive Shop loaned me the 5-passenger Hyundai Tucson 2016 ECO FWD in Winter White for a week. Now, I could talk about the road trip we took or the errands I ran but I want to talk about the features and how the Tucson handles the road in an urban environment.

*Safety features I appreciated were: 

*Dual advanced front air bags, front side impact air bags and curtain air bags with rollover sensors. Hillstart Assist Control and Downhill Break Control. I’ve always been kind of freaked out going up and down hills or sitting on one at a light knowing my car is slipping downhill. With these features I don’t have to worry anymore. When my foot is taken off break I don’t feel any gear slipping. Rear parking sensors make parallel parking simpler. Rear door child safety locks, rear center 3-point belt and child seat anchors were a plus in my book. 

*Dual shift allowed me to drive in automatic mode where I can relax. More proactive drivers can switch to manual. When you slow down in speed the gears automatically downshifts for you. Sachs shock absorbers are great. As a NYer I’m sure drivers aren’t crazy about potholes. With these absorbers you have a smooth ride. 

*The ECO mode saves gas. I could drive all day and rarely see the meter move. Sport mode gives you more power,  you can feel it and it comes in handy when passing large vehicles on the highway.   

*Anti-whiplash front head restraints. Best comfortable headrest I’ve felt in a vehicle. Rear wiper and defogger comes in handy on foggy and rainy days. My kids loved the rear cupholders. 

We really enjoyed the loaner and we took the vehicle a few fun places for the kids to enjoy getting away from the city. They loved going to City Island for seafood and Rock City for video games and fun. They also loved getting a ride to school everyday and we were sad to see it go but we are looking forward to more exciting road trips and future cruising with Drive Shop. 

   
    
    
   
There’s so much more features that I enjoyed and appreciated but I’ll stop at this. To check out more about the Hyundai Tucson 2016 CUV check out their website: http://www.hyundaiusa.com 

   
    
     
         
 Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given a vehicle as a loaner for a week. Opinions are mine and my family 100% as always. 

BIG APPLE CIRCUS FAMILY 4-PACK TICKET GIVEAWAY

2 Nov

Big Apple Circus returns to the Big Top at Lincoln Center for the company’s 38th season with the World Premiere of its all-new show, The GrandTour! Tickets start at $25, and the show runs from October 21, 2015 to January 10, 2016. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit http://www.bigapplecircus.org.
 The GrandTour transports audiences to the Roaring 1920s, the advent of the modern travel era, when the most adventuresome began to tour the world in ships, planes, trains, and automobiles. With every seat less than 50 feet from the stage, audiences will be awed by the world-class entertainers as they perform breathtaking acts from the four corners of the globe. Clowns, jugglers, acrobats, and aerialists from Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and North and South America appear with ponies, puppies and more; the troupe sets off on their own whirlwind adventure, accompanied by the live, seven-piece Big Apple Circus Band at each of more than 100 performances.

Four-time Big Apple Circus ringmaster John Kennedy Kane returns to introduce a variety of stunning performers: clowns Joel Jeske and Brent McBeth; third-generation circus animal trainer Jenny Vidbel with her pony and dog acts; aerialist Sergey Akimov; international juggling sensation Alexander Koblikov; ninth-generation circus performer Chiara Anastasini with hula hoops; the Dominguez Brothers defying the law of gravity with their thrill-filled act featuring the Wheel of Wonder; Chinese hand balancers The Energy Trio; the African acrobatic troupe Zuma Zuma; and the Dosov Troupe soaring on the teeterboard.

The GrandTour, conceived and created by Joel Jeske, is directed by Mark Lonergan (artistic director of Parallel Exit, the three-time Drama Desk Award-nominated physical theater company) with associate director and choreographer Antoinette DiPietropolo. Musical direction by Rob Slowik with clown material created and directed by Joel Jeske. Set and lighting design by Maruti Evans, costume design by Oana Botez, and props design by Katie Fleming.
As a nonprofit performing arts institution, the Big Apple Circus is committed not only to thrilling audiences in the ring, but also to bringing the joy and wonder of circus into the community. Big Apple Circus creates direct, shared connections inside its one-ring Big Top AND in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools, in its New York City home and in cities across America.
**GIVEAWAY: Big Apple Circus is offering one of my readers a family 4-pack of tickets to the Wednesday November 11, 2015 4:30pm show. 

To enter answer this question below: 

What year was the Big Apple Circus founded? You can find answer on the website. 

1962

1982

1977

Winner will be picked and announced Friday, November 6. Winner will be emailed by Big Apple Circus to claim tickets. My readers can also use use promo code BIGAPPLE to save 20% off tickets (that’s not just off one ticket, but the whole purchase).* (*Limited availability. Offer good on select seats and shows. Other conditions apply. Children under 3 are free when on the lap of a paid adult, one child per lap.) 

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. This is a giveaway. 

Update: WINNER WAS ANNOUNCED ON SOCIAL MEDIA: @dadarocks is the winner. Congrats! Thank you to all who entered. More giveaways to come. Check out one going on now. 

 

Part 1 Of My Trip To Memphis,Tennessee For St Jude Blogger Tour

26 Oct

Back in September myself along with other bloggers were invited to Memphis, Tennessee to tour St Jude Children’s Research Hospital. It was Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and I was grateful to get to experience this in person.

I haven’t been on a plane since probably 2002 or 2003. Something like that. I wasn’t going to let that stop me from meeting the staff, kids and families of St. Jude. I wasn’t going for a vacation. I was going for a behind the scenes look, answers to questions I’ve always wanted to know. I’m sure everyone like me wants to know how St. Jude could never ask for a penny from the families for anything. They never receive a bill which is beyond amazing. 

   
    
 September 15-17 was going to be intense and worth it. We took a tour of the facilities and met with nutritionists, scientists, chefs,child life specialist, teachers, kids, families, staff members, tour guides that grew up into healthy adults after being cured and are now working for St. Jude.

Walking into St. Jude felt like you were on a private island. It was not like any hospital you see in the city. No kids are waiting to be seen in the lobby, no kids crying, wall murals are amazing and the artist made the kids on the wall favor the kids at St. Jude. Very bright, colorful and happy, and everyone is so friendly. Kids are transported throughout the halls in red wagons which were so cute. 

Even though this was a hospital that treats kids with cancer it was like a happy place. They really take care of the children even down to the meals they eat. There’s even a campus organic garden on the property for fresh vegetables. 

The St. Jude Farmer’s Market offers employees, patients and their families the chance to purchase fresh produce and farm-raised meat from local farmers. The market is held on-site every other Friday from May through the end of October. 

The first day we arrived we had lunch in the St. Jude cafeteria. Named Kay Kafe by Sterling Jewelers, who donated $16 million for its renovation, the cafeteria seats 500 and serves up to 1,000 patients, families, faculty and staff during a busy lunch hour. Display cooking includes a grill, deli, pizza oven, and a wok area, among other options. Kay Kafe offers a variety of choices in a friendly, relaxed setting. There are so many food choices, and everything tasted great.

  
 
  
  
   
The Kay Kafe has a child-friendly design that include lower counters so that patients can interact face-to-face with staff. I also noticed lower sinks in bathroom and lower counters at receptionists desks when patients check in. 

Next was a tour of the hospital with our tour guide Tayde who was once a patient and now working for St. Jude. She was great and told us her story and how St. Jude saved her life. We saw the lab, classrooms (yes patients attend school). I loved the cute classrooms. We were told what a typical school day is like. There is also graduations and proms for some of the grades. 

   
    

  
    
    

  
  
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
   
I don’t remember crying too much the first day but the next two days I turned into a fountain. 

We went to dinner later that night which again was amazing. I turned in early because I knew the next day was going to be a full day. 

   
    
    
    
 This is Part 1 of my post. I will continue to write more on my trip so stay tuned. 

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post but was invited to Memphis Tennessee on a blogger tour to visit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

Big Apple Circus Family Fun Day 

26 Oct

Sunday was a great day for the Big Apple Circus at Lincoln Center in the big blue tent. This was our first time going and we had great seats in the second row B Door 1. We went to the 12:30 afternoon show. 

   
 What I like about the tent is no matter where you sit you can see everything. It’s not too big and just the right amount of space, seats and acts. The show is about 2 hours with a 20 minute intermission and you can ride a pony during that intermission or after the show if you want, I  believe for a fee. 

  
John Kennedy Kane is the Ringmaster who introduced each act. There are nine acts in the first half. The first act was called Overture followed by Charivari.

   
    
    
    
    
    
    
 The Hula Hoop act had us saying how can she hula hoop with all of those? She started with one and ended up with over 20. She made a big slinky out of it too. 

   
    
 
Feeling Hot, Ball Juggling and Dog Act were the next three acts. Very funny stuff in the Feeling Hot act where a pail of water and wet clown was involved. Ball Juggling did a great job using his feet and hands juggling all the balls. Dog Act had dogs of all sizes running around, jumping through hoops, riding on scooters and leaping into the air. 

   
    
    
    
    
   
Handstands, Red Nose Transplant and The Wonder Wheel were the last three acts of the first half of the show. The group Energy Trio were made up of three guys whose handstands were in sync, very flexible and takes a lot of practice. They did a great job. The Wonder Wheel is always our favorite at any circus. It has us jumping out of our seats, screaming and our jaws dropping. It’s heart pounding and these guys are true dare Devils. They make it look so easy and one of them was even blind folded for a few seconds. Seeing it up close was breath taking and had me nervous but it was fun to watch. 

   
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
Second half after intermission with eight acts were Lost In The Desert, Arabian Horses, Istanbul and African Acrobats. We were happy to see the horses perform. The African Acrobats from the Zuma Zuma Troupe did a wonderful job using their flexibility and strength. 

   
    
    
    
    
   
The last four acts were Aerial Straps, Musical Chairs, Teeterboard and the Finale. You can’t have a circus without someone hanging on straps and bending and flying through the air. My favorite act of all was Musical Chairs. My daughter got picked to be in this act and she did a fantastic job!!! She made it to the end and WON a first class ticket to N.Y.,( not for real) just part of the act. She outwitted the clown and took the crown. I was so happy she got picked and so was she. She had fun doing that. I have it on video if you’d like to check it out. Here is the link: https://youtu.be/qzqd_EQm_x4

   
    
    
    
 Teeterboard sent the performers flying through the air and landed on a padded cushion or into a chair. Some had on stilts and landed perfectly after flying through the air. These guys and gals showed their skills and made it look so easy. 

   
    
    
 
Then there was the Finale which we didn’t want to end. Everyone came out and did a little dance, took a bow and gave their waves goodbyes. The show was a treat for us and everyone really did an amazing job. I encourage everyone to go see the Big Apple Circus. My kids and I had the best day at the Big Apple Circus. Loved seeing their faces light up with excitement. 

   
 The Big Apple Circus is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that brings joy and wonder to children and families inside and outside the tent. Big Apple Circus returns to the Big Top at Lincoln Center for the company’s 38th season with the World Premiere of its all-new show, The GrandTour! Tickets start at $25, and the show runs from October 21, 2015 to January 10, 2016. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit http://www.bigapplecircus.org. and on Instagram and Twitter: @bigapplecircus 

The GrandTour transports audiences to the Roaring 1920s, the advent of the modern travel era, when the most adventuresome began to tour the world in ships, planes, trains, and automobiles. With every seat less than 50 feet from the stage, audiences will be awed by the world-class entertainers as they perform breathtaking acts from the four corners of the globe. Clowns, jugglers, acrobats, and aerialists from Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and North and South America appear with ponies, puppies and more; the troupe sets off on its own whirlwind adventure, accompanied by the live, seven-piece Big Apple Circus Band at each of more than 100 performances.
  
Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given tickets in exchange for this post with my opinions which are 100% mine as always. 

Part Of My Family: Honest Tea, Honest Kids Organic Drinks 

21 Sep

When it comes to drinks for my kids I aim for the ones without high fructose corn syrup. It’s very difficult and tricky sometimes when reading labels. You might have no sugar added but then you have ingredients you can’t even pronounce. Is there really no sugar added? Then there’s your flavors. I’m sure every kid likes their drinks to taste good. My kids are all about the flavors and I’m all about teaching them about the healthy but also flavorful drinks. 

That’s where Honest Kids organic fruit drinks come in to play. Yes, organic and sweetened only with organic fruit juice. The flavors are amazing I find myself sneaking a few pouches to take with me. 

In 2013, they removed the organic cane sugar from all Honest Kids varieties and found a way to deliver the same great taste by sweetening the juice drinks only with fruit juice.
Super Fruit Punch and Berry Berry Good Lemomade are my kids top two favorites. There are also Appley Ever After, Goodness Grapeness, and Tropical Tango Punch. Don’t these flavors sound incredible? They are, and I make sure to stock up for school lunches and adventures so my kids can stay hydrated with favorite quench thirsting drink. 

   
    
   
Honest Tea made sure to look out for the adults too. Today, Honest Tea is the nation’s top selling organic bottled tea, and is carried in more than 100,000 outlets. 

The Honest Tea Glass Bottles have awesome flavors like: Peach-Oo-La-Long Tea, Radiant Raspberry Tea, Moroccan Mint Green Tea and Mango White Tea just to name a few. 
The Honest Tea Iced Teas are certified organic, 100 calories or less per bottle and just a tad sweet are what I buy all the time. A few of the delicious flavors are Half Tea & Half Lemonade, Honey Green Tea and Lemon Tea. These come in plastic bottles. 

   
    
 

Honest Fizz is a refreshing take on certified organic zero-calorie soda with a modern (and Honest) twist. Zero- calories per can. Flavors include: Root Beer, Ginger Ale, Professor Fizz, Orange Pop and Lemon Limey.

      
Organic Lemonades, a Limeade and a Half & Half in family-sized bottles, sweetened with fair trade sugar. Love family sized bottles especially with all the thirsty members in my home. 

      
Honest specializes in offering beverages that range from unsweetened and zero grams of sugar to ones that are “just a tad sweet.” Their teas, juice drinks and sodas use a variety of natural sweeteners.

My kids packed two Honest Kids pouches each for lunch the first day of school. They still do. 

  

Check out Twitter: @HonestTea and on the web: http://www.honesttea.com

Have you tried Honest Tea? What flavors do you like? 
Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. Honest Tea was kind enough to send me and my family samples to try for review. My opinions are 100% my own. 

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