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#DisneyOTR #DisneySMMoms #DisneySide Great Time in Philly #travel

There are tons of conferences being held in Philly and since I’m only about 2 hours away I don’t mind attending. I applied to attend the Disney Social Media Moms On The Road Conference Celebration in Philly on June 19th and was selected. I was so excited because I am a big Disney fan. Even though I haven’t been to Disney World in a long time I still support everything Disney. I want to go back and visit with my family because my kids keep telling me they want to go and I feel every kid needs to experience it. Attending this conference was as close as I was going to get to Disney for now.

Hubby drove and we were the first ones to arrive. The conference was held in the Crowne Plaza Valley Forge Hotel. Beautiful hotel and we also received complimentary parking and breakfast which was amazing.

Jamie Langdon (Walt Disney World PR and Social Media Manager) and Leanne Jakubowski O’ Regan ( Director Social Media Disney Parks) welcomed everyone. Gary Buchanan (Walt Disney World Social Media Managing Editor) spoke about What’s New, What’s Next at Disney Parks. Jenn Fickley-Baker (WDW Social Media Manager) took us behind the scenes with Disney Parks Social Media. Lori Lorenz (Senior Director, Direct Print Services HP) showed us the solution side of Motherhood. Victoria Lim (Managing Editor, WDW PR) showed us how to create visual content with ease. Maria Bailey introduced the Lessons Learned, Experiences Shared – The Life of a Mom Business Owners.

Anything that has to do with Disney I know will be informative and worth me going. I met lots of new bloggers, saw some familiar faces and left with lots of great inspirational messages and educational content to support my goals. I enjoyed learning about the right technology to use when blogging such as owning camera lens kit, Gorilla Pod, and a Smartlav Lavalier Microphone. Amazing apps to use are: Videolicious, Magisto, and Cute Cut. The entrepreneurs on the panel who invented products and are now living their dreams are: Amy Bradley @toydozer, Kristi Gorinas (Dad Pack), Jen Groover @jengroover (Butler Bag).

HP spoke to attendees. I love their desktops and printers which I own and was proud to learn that Instant ink communicates with your printer and lets you know when ink is low. $2.99 a month for service ink comes delivered to your door. Cheaper than buying ink in store. I will be using this service from now on.

Disney Parks are always coming up with new rides and attractions and I know it would probably take my family and I a month to see it all. Disney festival fantasy parade just launched in California. Every time I hear about a new ride or character I keep telling myself we will go someday. My kids make sure to keep reminding me too.

Debi Silber (Author and Founder of The Mojo Coach) spoke to us about health/fitness/lifestyle. She had us up out of our seats doing an exercise. She also asked what would happen if you were 100% in the space you are in? I think we all could use a mojo coach. Toxic people stress our immune systems, positive people strengthen them. Choose our company. Great talk Debi.

Throughout the conference raffles were being given out and cookies for our tables and we also got a pin that we could trade with other tables. I liked my pin. Beverages were stocked and there were photo props to put on as you took pictures at the booth. There was a line to take a picture with Gary but I made sure I got one with him. He is very funny and nice. We also had a surprise guest show up at the end. It was Mickey Mouse. You know you couldn’t have a Disney conference without the mouse himself. Also if you wanted at the end of the conference you could take home a balloon.

The panel taught me a lot and I am ready and look forward to so much more opportunities to come.
Thank you to everyone who made this event possible.

@gary_jerry
@hpprint
@victorialim
@momtalkradio
@themojocoach
@lorilorenzca
@disneysmmoms

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Categories Blogger Event, Family, Fun, Invitational Event, Travel

DINOSAURS HAVE TAKEN OVER SECAUCUS, NJ @jerseysaurus #giveaway

2 Jun

Did you know there are Dinosaurs living in Secaucus, NJ? Tell your family you’re on your way to see the 32 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs at Field Station Dinosaurs. This expedition of realistic dinosaurs is amazing. There’s even a 90 foot long Argentinosaurus (the largest animatronic dinosaur ever made) that comes to life thanks to roboticists.

My kids and I hopped on the NJ Transit from Penn Station which took only 9 minutes and a 10 minute walk from train. The adult ticket was only $8 round-trip and kids 11 and under are free on weekends which is when we went. I was happy. We met up with Denise from Boyz Rule Our World. We took our kids exploring with these creatures along the 3/4 mile trail. There are workshops, games and activities for the kids along the trail. They also get to dig for prehistoric fossils and dinosaur skeletons at the Fossil Dig Site. T-Rex showed up at the “Dino Whodunit” presentation and I could hear screams from the front. It looked so real even with the person feet underneath. They played a game with the audience and T-Rex was blind folded.

Kids and adults please wear sneakers and socks because sand and rocks will be traveling with you throughout the day. I wore the wrong shoe and paid for it. Lol.

Our ticket included a stop at the Commander’s Tent which is air conditioned and includes a 3D movie “Dinosaurs Alive.”This tent was beautifully decorated by IKEA and has books for the readers and we were greeted by a baby herbivore that the kids fed a bottle to. It was so cute, very affectionate and friendly. They also got to hold it. Now that I wouldn’t mind petting but those big ones no thank you.

The Lookout is gated off and you look over to see what’s lurking in the woods. I thought something was going to run up to us and let out a loud roar but it didn’t. I guess it’s there for your imagination to wonder what could be down there. (Smart)

After the kids saw every single dinosaur, and explored they were ready for lunch which was kindly provided to us bloggers. The weather was great and so was our adventure. We will definitely be going back and are thinking about “Dozin With Dinos Overnight Adventure.” This is a campout with the dinosaurs under the stars, lantern lit trail, s’mores, songs, campfire and other goodies. This takes place from August 2-23 from 7pm- 8am.

Check out the website for Directions, hours, prices, reservations and season passes. http://www.fieldstationdinosaurs.com
The phone number is 1 (855) 999-9010 if you have any questions.

Giveaway: Field Station Dinosaurs was kind enough to give away a Family 4 pack of tickets to one of my readers.
Mandatory Entries:
Follow @Jerseysaurus on Twitter
Follow @nilimonicky on Twitter
Like Field Station Dinosaurs on Facebook
Like Five Little Words on Facebook
Follow @Jerseysaurus on Instagram
Follow @nilimo on Instagram
Answer question: Which dinosaur is your favorite?
When you leave your answer below let me know you did all of the above in your response.
Winner will be announced June 6, 2014.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. All opinions are mine as always. I was invited to attend press event.

Enjoy pictures!!

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Categories Blogger Event, Family, Fun, Fun things to do in NY with Family, Giveaways, Invitational Event, Kids, Travel, What's Going On?

TOP SUMMER ROAD TRIP ESSENTIALS #travel #roadtrip #trip

9 May

With Summer around the corner, it’s time to plan and prepare for upcoming trips and vacations. From a road trip, to the beach, to vacationing with the family in an RV, it’s important to have your bags properly stocked with all the key essentials. As such, I wanted to gauge your interest in a round-up of the top road-trip essentials for those planning a summer adventure. I have included a list of key necessities.

Snacking is Key:

1. Lance Xtra Fulls™ Toasty Crackers with Real Peanut Butter and Lance Xtra Fulls™ Toastchee® with Real Peanut Butter- the perfect snack to take on the go, made with Real Peanut Butter and protein to keep you fueled and ready for any adventure. 6ct. Box for $2.99
2. Dark Roast Iced Coffee made with Coconut Water – Hydrate and stay awake with the flavor of dark roasted coffee and the hydration from pure coconut water. RealBeanz $1.99-$2.69

Capture the Moments:

3. Ready for an extreme adventure –
The Starter Go Po White Edition is a great entry into capturing lives moments $199.99

Casual Attire a Must:

4. Chlambake Sandal by AEROSOLES –
Crafted for comfort with ultra-padded insoles and flexible rubber sole to get the style you crave and the comfort you need. $59.00
5. H&M Gold Aviator-style Sunglasses $5.95
6. An easy bag, sturdy enough to carry all your snacks and gadgets - Longchamp Le Pilage Shoulder Tote Bag $125

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Categories Family, Fashion, Fun, Travel, What's Going On?

ROAD TRIP TO PHILLY FOR THE #MomMixer EVENT

3 May

On Saturday April 26th, a couple of my besties and I took a road trip to Philly for the Mom Mixer Event hosted by Whitney Wingerd & Colleen Padilla. It was held at the Four Seasons hotel. We were scheduled for the 12- 2 p.m. session. We had a great time traveling, seeing the sights, and girl talk. I checked the weather before we left so I knew Philly weather was going to be nice in the 70’s. I was excited to talk to the brands who were in attendance.

CVS had loads of goodies for everyone to enjoy like their famous chocolate chip cookies, juices, protein bars, trail mix, dried fruit, chili lime almonds, and plenty more snacks from their Gold Emblem line. CVS has everything I need and I am glad I am within walking distance from my house.

Kids headquarters came through with brands from Under Armour clothing for infants and kids. I scored shorts, and a iron man t-shirt for my daughter, and onesies for my cousin. My whole family loves Under Armour. Tommy Hilfiger was also another brand featured at their table.

Mc D Philly (McDonald’s) restaurant were handing out hot coffee and coupons for free meals. I couldn’t wait to get a cup of their McCafe coffee.

Hershey Park told us about the new rides coming this year like the Cocoa Cruiser (roller coaster), Tea Cups, and the Sweet Swing. My family and I can’t wait to go and try these new rides. I haven’t been to Hershey Park in years, and my kids keep asking to go so this has to be the year. There also was a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup mascot taking pictures with attendees. We tried to take a bite out of it. Lol.

Charm It is the original, detachable charm brand for girls ages 5-14. I love the necklace with all the charms and bracelets. My daughter will want to collect all of them. But I know she will especially want anything ballerina, princess, and cupcakes. She can’t wait to start her collection. Charm It is having a contest where your little one can Design-A-Charm. Check it out on Twitter @Charm_It Hurry ends May 21st.

Academy of Natural Sciences had a table with dinosaur bones, and teeth. My kids would have loved to have seen it. I definitely want to bring them back to explore. They gave us free passes so another road trip with the kids is a must.

The 3 Day (Susan G Komen) came out to encourage everyone to get involved and walk for breast cancer in Philly. I told the girls we need to do this. Another road trip but for a good cause. I want to show support and wear pink and represent. We can go as Blogger Walkers.

Visionworks provided eye exams and showed us their Eco friendly line of glasses. They also gave us a free pair of sunglasses to take home. They have over 620 optical retail stores in 40 states. I am due for new reading glasses and can’t wait to connect with them. Check out their website vision works.com

Stella & Dot showed us beautiful jewelry, bags, clutches, and scarves in bright colors, and a variety of prints. I wanted the whole collection. My friend won a tote bag.

You know we couldn’t go to Philly without getting Geno’s delicious cheesesteaks. We also had to take pictures like tourists.

I went to Philly last year with hubby and the kids for another event and we had a great time. I think Philly will be a yearly thing from now on.

The gift bags were fabo and I’d like to thank Colleen and Whitney for the invite. I had a great time!!
Check out:
@classymommy
@WhitneyMWS
@CVS_Extra
@the3day
@acadnatsci
@Charm_It
@kidsheadquarter
@UnderArmour
@HersheyPA
@StellaDot
@McDPnilly

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I received an invite and swag. Opinions are mine.

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Categories Blogger Event, Family, Fun, Invitational Event, Product Reviews, Travel, What's Going On?

TRAVEL TRENDS EVENT WITH @Momtrends #trendytravel

3 May

I don’t get away as much as I would like to but I made it my business to “Getaway with Momtrends” at Butterfly Studio on April 28th. I was invited to learn about the latest travel attire, take off tips, on the go gear, hairstyling tips, and family travel planning. This event was not to be missed.

I started with a dry hair styling session appointment. I never had a fishtail and always wanted one but my stylist took it up a notch. She made a high pony with the fishtail then wrapped it in a bun with pins. It looked great. It was off my neck and stayed in place the entire night. I still have to learn how to make a fishtail though.

Butterfly Studio hooked a lot of the bloggers up with cute hairstyles, and my favorite were the pony tails. I especially liked Nicole Feliciano’s pony.

Butterfly Studio showed all the tricks and easy to do hairstyles that’s great for everyday or when traveling. These styles looked like they took hours to do but were done in a few minutes. I know when the summer comes I like my hair off my face but also looking good in a bun or pony tail. Also using the right products to get volume and less frizz is important as well. They are located in the city and can be found at Butterflystudiosalon.com

Kim-Marie Evans taught me a lot about how to book vacations, who to book them with, and the most important how to get the most for your money. Who knew that booking group tours are actually more better than a vacation on your own. You get to do and see things that would never happen if you went on your own like dining with the locals in their homes, and maybe visiting an artist and taking home a piece of art directly from the artist. Check her out at TravelingMom.com

Britax always have the best baby gear and accessories for parents. I love their car seats and strollers. I love the colors of the strollers, and the cow print color of the car seat. They are releasing a new stroller called BOB revolutionary stroller. It has an expandable handle for those tall dads, and a handle brake which is awesome. I also love how it closes up in the push of a button. Wheels are sturdy enough even for the sand on the beach. The wheels also can be locked for jogging or unlocked to swivel when strolling around. Accessories are a must have for strollers and cars. Check out all the latest products at Britax.com

Trunk was also in the house introducing their water-resistant swim backpack called PaddlePak that comes designed looking like sea creatures for the kids. Very lightweight and durable but can pack a lot. There’s one that looks like Nemo but it’s actually called Clown Fish Chuckles that I’m sure will be a huge hit. I loved Octopus Inky for my daughter and the Shark PaddlePak for my son which is larger than the other ones. The Whale and Shark are the larger PaddlePaks. Prices are $25 for the small and $30 for the large. For ages 2 and up these are great for camping, the beach, travel, parks, etc. Keeps thing from getting wet and parents won’t have to carry it because your kids won’t want to put it down.
They can be found at Trunki.com

Miraclesuit made sure they showed the ladies the must have swimwear and we got to enjoy a fashion show with cute sarongs, and bright color swimsuits. We don’t have to hide our figures because Miraclesuit makes us look 10 pounds lighter in 10 seconds no matter what size. They have one piece swimsuits, tankini tops, swim dresses, cover ups, and so on. I picked out a cute little number that I will be rocking this year on the beach. Head to Miraclesuit.com and pick some up.

Adirondack Creamery was on board to treat us to their amazing farm fresh, local, all natural ice cream in amazing flavors like , Banana Chip, Kulfi-Pistachio Cardamom, and Caramel Apple. But those are just a few flavors they have. I loved it so much they hand delivered me ice cream to my door yesterday. I was so excited to share with my family. Anything all natural and farm fresh is supported in my house. A few of the stores you can purchase this from is Whole Foods, and Fairway Market. Also for the holidays they have Pumpkin Pie, and Egg Nog which I can’t wait to try. Here is the website to read all about their story and other flavors, Adirondackcreamery.com

The night couldn’t have been better. Sponsors and gift bags were amazing. Thank you Nicole and Sherri for your fun and informative events. You ladies rock! Thank you to all the sponsors for your generous gifts.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given a hairstyling session and wonderful gift bag. Opinions are always my own.

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Categories Beauty, Blogger Event, Fashion, Fashion Show, Fun, Invitational Event, Travel, What's Going On?

I HAD A HONDA FIT EXPERIENCE #FitForYou

19 Apr

I was excited to be invited to a VIP Honda Fit experience on April 15th to test out the new 2015 Honda Fit. When I arrived at Skylight West the first thing I noticed was the size of the cars. I loved it. Very compact, loved the colors, and I could easily find parking with no problem in one if these. Don’t let the size fool you. Even though it looked small it can hold a lot. They were demonstrating how it can hold 15 bean bags with the seats folded down. Love the cargo space. The front passenger seat once folded flat can hold a 9 ft. long surfboard and 2 6 ft. surfboards all at the same time. The driver’s seat also folds down and can be used to lounge and watch movies while waiting for your passengers. Hubby would like that. He’s very tall so any car that’s roomy enough for him is a plus. Legroom and headroom are important.

You can plug your smartphone into the car, and the Honda Link system has HDMI connectivity that allows you to watch movies and listen to music on your 7- inch screen while you’re parked. (Safety first). It also comes with Apple’s Siri hands free interface.

I was impressed with 41 MPG on the highway, and the 33 MPG in the city. Every 2015 Honda Fit also comes standard with the multi- angle rear view camera with 3 viewing modes. (Wide, normal, and top down ). I love the color blue they use on the dashboard that increases visibility and high quality feel. Honda’s linked satellite navigation system with continually updated traffic information is great. Loved how easy it was to use.

The new Lane Watch feature is very cool. It shows a view of the lane next to you on the dashboard. The camera is under the mirror and blind spot areas are minimized by expanded driver’s view mirror and Lane Watch. I took a picture when my friends and I took the car out. (I was not driving at that particular time).

Living in NY can get hectic when it comes to driving with traffic and finding a big enough parking spot. The Honda Fit will definitely come in handy. After my friends and I went for a test drive we saw how much power this car had, how much legroom we had, and how easy it was to use the navigation, and squeeze through tight spaces. It is definitely #fitforthecity #fitfortechnology #fitforduty and #fitforyou

Honda also treated us to breakfast and lunch which was amazing. I had a great time and hope to own a Honda Fit one day. My kids want me to have a car but my wallet says otherwise. Lol. I would love to travel if I owned a car. Get to your local Honda dealer and test drive. Also check out the New York International Auto Show at Jacob Javits Center going on now till April 27th and see it in person. I put a few pics from the Auto Show below.

Thank you Honda, Ellen, Shannon, and Blitz for a look at what’s in store for the 2015 Honda Fit. Thank you Denise for the recommending me.

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

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Categories Blogger Event, Car Reviews, Family, Fun, Invitational Event, Launch, Travel, What's Going On?

ARE YOU READY FOR THE 2015 KIA SEDONA? #WhatsYourSedona #spon

17 Apr

I received an email invite to the KIA New York International Auto Show Reception hat just took place on Wednesday, April 16. I had to double check to make sure this was real. I wasn’t dreaming. I was beyond excited to know I was going to get a chance to check out the new 2015 Kia Sedona. When it comes to cars and my family safety is first on the list and I knew this was the event I had to attend.

Hubby and I made our way to SIR Stage 37 and walked into a room full of people and a burlesque, carnival themed night. Acrobatics, hula hoops, and a lady that could fit her whole body in a balloon was amazing to see. There were food, drinks, and a DJ as well. The honoree of the night (2105 Kia Sedona) was center stage. I wanted to jump right in and take it for a test drive.

This mid- sized multipurpose vehicle is just what I’ve been looking for. With seating for up to eight passengers, and optional “first class” second row seats with footrests that can slide back and forth and rotate to face the back row.The Sedona is powered by a 276 -horsepower, 3.3-liter V6 engine, and is available with radar cruise control, collision alert and blind spot warning systems. All models have a 60/40-split third-row bench seat that folds into the floor.

One unique feature is a power tailgate that opens automatically when it senses the keyfob nearby for three seconds, allowing for hands-free access to the cargo area.

Fuel economy and pricing have not yet been revealed, but the 2015 Sedona goes on sale late this year.

I encourage you to check out the New York International Auto Show taking place at the Jacob Javits Convention Center 655 W. 34th st. April 18-27.
The Kia Sedona will be available for you to get inside and see what it has to offer you and your family. My kids can’t wait to attend and check it out. I’m sure they will ask can we take it home. I will have to save my pennies. We would love to travel in this.

I know the Kia Sedona has a lot to offer my family, and my favorite feature so far are the first class second row seats with the footrests that can slide back and forth and rotate to face the back row. I know my kids will also love this too.

Disclosure: I was compensated for this post. All opinions are 100% mine.
There will be a Twitter party coming soon. Stay tuned.

What are your favorite features? Will you be heading to the NYAS? What are you excited to see? Will this be your first time at he NY Auto Show? Would love to see your pictures in the Kia Sedona.

Check out this link: http://www.kiamedia.com/us/en/presskits/2014-new-york-international-auto-show

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Categories Car Reviews, Family, Fun, Invitational Event, Launch, Sponsored Post, Travel, What's Going On?

THIS IS HOW WE CELEBRATED OUR #DISNEYSIDE PARTY!!

7 Mar

My kids and I were so excited when we were told we were going to host a #DisneySide @Home Celebration Party. My kids have never been to Disney World and I haven’t been since I was little so this was as close to it as we were going to get for now. Hopefully one day I can make their dreams come true. I joined the #DisneySide group on Facebook to get ideas and see what everyone got in their package before mine arrived. I was #teampurple luggage from American Tourister. I love purple and I was very happy. Everything was packaged in my suitcase for me to prepare for my party. There was everything from photo paper to a cool iPhone 5 cell phone case. Also included were Craisins, paper plates ,cups, etc,etc. I personally loved the Mickey Mouse cookie cutters, and measuring cups.

I had so many ideas racing through my head about what type of party to have so who better than to ask was my kids. At first like any girl she wanted a princess party but I thought what about my son and other boys I invite. I needed a theme for boys and girls. So we decided on Mickey Mouse Clubhouse where there are a mixture of characters. I think I brainstormed more on where to have the party. I knew for sure I didn’t want to have it at home. I just couldn’t clean up behind a bunch of kids. No offense. Just wasn’t gonna happen. A light bulb lit up over my head. What better place than my daughter’s classroom at school. BINGO!!! My son goes to the same school so all I had to do was send for him so he can join in to, which is exactly what I did. My daughter’s teacher was very excited when I asked for permission and we figured out a date which was February 28th. Ms. Lyons the teacher read Disney stories to the class everyday leading up to the party.

I went shopping like crazy buying gifts for the kids. I love shopping. There were 21 kids in my daughter’s class. Piece of cake. Speaking of cake I contacted a local bakery in my neighborhood called Aromas Bakery NYC located on the upper east side and asked if they would be willing to provide cupcakes for the Disney party and without hesitation they complied. I knew from having quite a few of their delicious cakes that their custom made cupcakes were gonna be a huge hit with the kids. Guess what? I was right!! Everyone loved them and the teacher and assistant even took one home with them.

My next mission was to figure out what to feed the kids. I asked for the help of my daughter again on this one. Basically, everyone liked turkey and cheese. I said I’ll do turkey and cheese on whole wheat with the cookie cutters. I also had cookies, and inside their goodie bags were lots more sweets. I decided at the last minute to order pizza for the class because kids love pizza. There was also yogurt from Yoplait with the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse characters which was perfect and the Craisins for whoever wanted. Arizona provided me with their half lemonade half ice tea drinks which went fast.

My mother and sister helped out which was a big help and greatly appreciated. They helped bring everything to the school, set up tables, and keep the kids busy as well. My daughter enjoyed having her mom, grandma, aunt, and brother in her class too. The teacher showed the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse show on the projector for the kids but when the kids saw the balloons that my son and I blew up they were busy playing with those they were hardly watching the show. Lol.

Next up we played Simon Says. I was Simon and I was fast so the kids had to keep up and I had to keep my eyes open. Everyone was a winner of course because they are kids but if it was grown ups there would have been one winner at the end. The kids also got a kick out of the Talking Tom app on my phone. The party lasted for about an hour and the kids said that this was the best party they ever had!!! They all thanked us and my daughter. I wish I could have gotten it on video but the teacher said no video could be taken and that’s understandable. The kids left with goodie bags and cupcakes so I know when they got home they weren’t going to sleep no time soon. Lol. Speaking of sleep, one kid actually slept through the entire party the. Woke up when it was time to go. Poor thing. I saved him his food, goodie bag, and cupcake though. I wouldn’t do that to him. Technically he was there. Lol.

My family and I like to thank Disney, American Tourister, DisneyParks, Mom Select, Maria Bailey and everyone I mentioned above for making this party awesome!!

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. These are my words 100%. I was given a suitcase full of goodies towards the party which was mentioned.

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Categories Fun, Kids, Travel, What's Going On?

ALL ABOARD WITH THE PEREZ FAMILY, @CRUISENORWEGIAN & @THEMOMS #travel #cruise #vacation #UltimateGetaway

27 Jan

I mentioned in my previous post that The Moms (@themoms) have been keeping me on my toes with all these great events this month but I think this one is my best event so far. My family and I were beyond thrilled when we found out Denise and Melissa were planning a “Family Fun Day” with Norwegian Cruise on their new ship “The Getaway”. Not only have we never been on a vacation but we’ve never been on a cruise and have always wanted to know what it looks like and dream of going on one and actually traveling to the Caribbean. The night before the big event we couldn’t sleep because we were so excited.

I took 3 of my 4 kids this time because my oldest son had to work so he couldn’t attend. The Norwegian was docked at Pier 88 on the west side in NY. Seeing this ship up close and how big and beautiful it was just had me and the kids jumping for joy and wanting to go back home and get our luggage so we can take a cruise anywhere it was going. Once we arrived we checked in with I.D’s. I took the kids birth certificates just to be on the safe side. They kept my drivers’s license to make sure we didn’t become stowaways on the ship. Lol. We were also given badges to wear while on board to be recognized as guests of Norwegian.

We boarded the ship into blissful heaven. Our Badges were scanned and we were taken to a room called the “Illusionarium”. This dining room is where we enjoyed our entertainment of the day and had our delicious gourmet lunch. Tables were set up beautifully and we were treated the way all Norwegian guests are treated, with exceptional service and a friendly and warm staff.

This time not only did I see my mom friends but my kids also got to have fun with their friends as well. I couldn’t see myself on a cruise without them.

Denise and Melissa talked a bit and welcomed families to a fun filled afternoon then introduced us to our cruise director, Julie. “Paging Captain Stubing.” Lol. The waiters came around and took our orders. My kids loved everything on the menu as well as I. Every bite was heaven in my mouth. Food was incredible. The coconut shrimp were my favorite. This is how you eat everyday when you’re on the ship. I would definitely have to fast before I go and workout on the ship because I would be stuffing my face non-stop. Lol. I took a picture of what we ate and of the menu below.

So while we were eating the entertainment started with a very energetic dance group called “Burn the Floor”. They sure were burning it up with their dance moves and flips. I couldn’t stop clapping. They started out the show pumping. Next up was “Lysander the magician” who had everyone’s eyed glued to his trick we are still wondering how he lifted that table with a candle into mid air. We’ve been to quite a few Broadway plays but never seen “Legally Blonde The Musical” who performed next. Their performance also had me tapping and clapping. Last but not least what all the kids were waiting for were the Nickelodeon characters, “Spongebob Squarepants, Patrick Star, Dora, and Diego.” My daughter was the most excited. She couldn’t wait to take pictures with all of them.

After pictures it was time for a tour of the enormous ship. You had a choice of leaving your kids with staff in “Splash Academy” where they play video games, sing, dance, arts & crafts , etc for ages 3-12 or they could tour with you. My kids wanted to see everything so they stayed with me. They made a great choice because we saw just about everything. There are so many restaurants. I believe 15 on board. Some have a cover charge but that’s okay because you would be paying three times that amount if you ate at one of those restaurants in NY. So it is worth $30 or $50. One of the restaurants our tour guide showed us is open 24 hours a day so I would order room service all night. (There’s a gym on board you forgot. Lol). There are also about 9 bars and lounges on board as well as a bar called “The Svedka Ice Bar” where 25 guest can experience temperatures 17 degrees Fahrenheit. You must wear a parka and gloves that are provided because everything is made out of ice, where you sit and what you drink out of.

What girl goes on a vacation and doesn’t shop? I know where I would have been while we were at sea. The shops on the ship made us all want to shop at that moment but they were closed. One day. Hey, a girl can dream. The second best thin to shopping is relaxing in a spa. Boy did they have a spa on board. It even had a barber shop for the men and hair salon for the women. The heated pools, heated lounge chairs , and other amenities is where I would be half the time as well. I love being pampered. The heated chairs felt so good my kids and I almost fell asleep. Lol

When I told the kids we were going on the ship they asked can they bring their bathing suits and get on the water slides. I had to let them know this wasn’t a vacation we were just touring even though I wish it was a vacation. I think every kid asked that question as some of the moms told me. I would have loved for them to get on a water slide but it was so cold and the slide is outside on the top deck that they would have freezed. They did however get to see what it looked like up close and personal and boy were they amazed. I even wanted to get on. The Aqua Park has 5 water slides, 4 hot tubs, and 2 swimming pools. I wanted to jump in the hot tub because it was cold. Wherever there is fun you will find my kids there.

We ended our tour at “Splash Academy” where it was my kids turn to play and the rest of the adults went on an adventure to look at the staterooms. I personally wanted to see how roomy these rooms were and how big the deck was. These rooms are absolutely gorgeous. There are 2,014 rooms. Anywhere from 4-6 people can be accompanied and some beds come out of the ceiling. The beds are very comfortable. Different size tubs and some even had rose petals, very pretty, also nice size flat screen t.v., cappuccino or espresso maker, safe, closet, drawers, and in one room the bathroom is in a glass door which I thought was the shower at first. Loved everything. Okay, we’re moving in. I also forgot to mention the 18,000 square foot casino for those who like to gamble.

The Sports Complex has basketball, mini golf, rock climbing, a bungee trampoline, and web climbing cage. As we finished up a fun filled day we came across arcade games and played bowling, basketball, car race driving, skeeball, pool, etc, etc. The kids really didn’t want to leave.

I believe this is the longest post I’ve ever written and that’s because this was the best event my family and I ever went on. We love and appreciate all the events but to experience this and see what everyone tells us about we are glad we got to see what it is all about. Hopefully my next long post will be of us actually going on a cruise and enjoying all the luxuries. We are all going to pray even harder this year that the Universe hears us and someone bless us with a much needed vacation.

I cannot thank Denise and Melissa (@themoms) enough. We really enjoyed ourselves. I’d also like to thank Norwegian Cruise for allowing us aboard “The Getaway”. I know trying to accommodate us and travelers at the same time is a lot of work. We hope to travel with you on your sister ship that ports from NY one day. Really I don’t care where it ports from we just want to go. Follow Norwegian Cruise on Twitter @CruiseNorwegian

Disclosure: I was not paid for this post. My family and I were guests for a tour of The Getaway and received lunch, a tote bag, and hat. These are 100% my own opinions.

As I wrote this post my kids asked me “when are we going on a cruise?”, about 5 times. Lol.

Enjoy the pics!! Courtesy of myself and my kids.

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Categories Family, Fun, Kids, Travel, What's Going On?

#SummerDreaming in January Spa Day with @themoms #spa #travel #vacation #resort

27 Jan

The moms Denise and Melissa (@themoms) have been keeping me on my toes traveling to different events this month and I’ve been enjoying every single one. I recently had the pleasure of experiencing their #summerdreaming spa day for moms. It was just what I needed with the weather that we were having I knew this was where I wanted to be. Come on, who’s gonna pass up a free mani and pedi, breakfast, and a chance at winning a free unlimited- luxury tropical vacation at one of the resorts? Not me.

The ladies at Salon Today were fabulous. They hooked my mani and pedi up just right and I can honestly say it still looks good. I went for a dark color on my toes and light for my nails. The catered breakfast was delicious. It’s always great when you get to see your friends and spend time with them. The moms Denise and Melissa are always a pleasure to hang out with that’s why I love attending their events. It’s as if we’ve known each other for years. Well it’s getting there. Lol.

Dream Resorts provide exclusive promotions for your vacation. They make sure your trip to luxurious 5 star resorts in Mexico will be affordable. They can save you as much as 75% on your next vacation, and work directly with the resorts. Check them out on Twitter @dreamresorts

Now Resorts and Spas offer luxury and comfort with amenities and activities for your family in Mexico and the Caribbean. They are all about family which I love very much because I have a big family. Parents who need a little alone time kids ages 3-12 can go to the “Explorer’s Club.” The club is completely supervised by American Red Cross certified staff and is included in your Unlimited Luxury experience. Your kids will have a ball. Parents are given a pager to keep in touch with their kids and cell phones are also provided. Plenty of activities that are exciting and educational. Follow them on Twitter @nowresorts

My family has never been to the Caribbean or on any vacation yet. Trust me my kids ask everyday. I’m trying to get them somewhere this year. I’m currently not working so it’s a little harder but God’s willing we will try and I will pray. No this is not a pity post but if someone out there in vacation land want to hook us up everything included we will pack today.

Enjoy everyday with your kids because time is precious and memories are important. Kids grow up so fast. Take plenty of pictures and video. SMILE!!!!

Disclosure: I was not paid for this post but I did receive a mani and pedi and a pashmina scarf and spa goodies to take home. These opinions are 100% my own.

Enjoy the pics!