TEACHING MY KIDS CALLIGRAPHY & ART CLASSES THIS SUMMER #orientaltrading

4 Mar

In high school I was given the opportunity to take calligraphy class. I didn’t ever think I would be able to learn such a beautiful handwriting in a short period of time but I did. I also had my work featured on display for a month in a NY public library. My mother and I were so proud. Ever since then I’ve always practiced and made sure to buy the right pens and ink. The more I talked about my skills the more people asked me to do wedding invitations, birthday cards, and invitations, I also wrote the names on the diplomas at my son’s school for the graduating sixth graders. Everyone would tell me you should put up an ad letting people know you can write calligraphy and make extra money. I like it as a hobby and helping those out who likes my fancy handwriting when needed. I don’t mind taking it to the next level though.

First, I want to teach my kids how to master it so I’ve teamed up with Oriental Trading to get me the supplies I need so my kids can learn on summer vacation. I know I’m gonna have to get plenty more but the main thin I wanted were the Elegant Writer Calligraphy Pen Sets. You can’t teach without the proper pens. I ordered two sets of these. One set is all black, and the other set has multiple colors. I can’t wait to teach my kids calligraphy and see if this is something they will embrace the way I did.

I also purchased these cool pencil sharpeners that look like bottles of cologne or a bottle you put ink in and dip a feather to write like way back when calligraphy looked amazing. My kids love these.

I could not pass on the Woodless Colour Pencils. These are just right for drawing, illustrating, and coloring. We will be having indoor and outdoor art classes as well.

The Biggie Sketch Pad contains 125 sheets and is perfect for the kids. I should have gotten two but I will get more in due time. This can start us off.
I ordered pens too because we’re always losing pens in the house so hopefully these will be around when we need them.

Oriental Trading has everything you need from arts and crafts, to party supplies, giftware, toys, etc. They have been recognized as one of the Top 50 Internet Retailers, and Top 50 Catalog Companies. I loved getting my catalog in the mail. There’s so much to choose from I always go over budget. Lol. Oriental Trading supports organizations and programs in Education, Youth, Healthcare, and Human Services. They also partner with Bloggers and Vloggers. You can go on their website to learn more : http://www.orientaltrading.com

My other blogger buddies and I will be hosting a Twitter party soon so I encourage you to check out wwww.orientaltrading.com and see what you like because you never know what you will win. Also follow my friends on Twitter and keep checking back for when we have the #LetsPartyOTC #orientaltrading Twitter Party.

@BronxMama_com
@MommysMingle
@MamiDoesItAll
@BoyzRuleOurWrld
@3CityGirlsNYC
@OrientalTrading

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given supplies. These opinions are 100% my own.

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#GIVEAWAY ticket for @CricketAzima cooking class @KidsFoodFestFun @BryantParkNYC #KFF #TCK

28 Feb

The Kids Food Festival at Bryant Park is back again this year!!! March 1, 2, 2014 is a weekend of fun for families. Presented by Creative Kitchen , kids engage all five senses through hands on, food related activities. Kids can also attend hands on cooking classes at the James Beard Foundation Future Foodies Pavilion where renowned chefs pass on their recipes, skills, and love for all things culinary to a new generation of learners. There is a scavenger hunt for kids where kids bounce between exhibitors and activities to sample tasty, wholesome snacks while learning the importance of achieving balance in their food choices. Families will enjoy live musical performances, a disco dance party, fitness workshops, and more. Each activity, relays a special message about healthful eating!!

Founder, Cricket Azima has a passion for providing cooking classes to children in New York City. The Kids Food Festival combats the very serious issue of childhood obesity in such a fun and effective way. This festival reaches thousands of families in one weekend which is incredible.

General admission to the event is free, and tickets to the hands on cooking classes in the James Beard Foundation Future Foodies Pavilion can be purchased at http://bit.ly/KvR2Hphe

Visit http://www.Kidsfoodfestival.com or @KidsFoodFestFun on Twitter for more info.

My kids and I enjoy going to KFF and taking cooking classes, scavenger hunt, cooking demos, entertainment, and tasty, healthy food. We also enjoy the raffles and giveaways. I encourage everyone to get out for a weekend of fun.

I am offering my readers a free ticket for a hands on cooking class in the James Beard Foundation Future Foodies Pavilion with Cricket Azima.

Leave a comment and tell me why you would love your child to attend Cricket’s class.

Winner will be picked tonight. Contest ends 9 p.m.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. My kids will attend Cricket’s class. Opinions are my own.

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ALICIA KEYS STORYTELLING APP HELPS CHILDREN STAND UP TO & PREVENT BULLYING

18 Feb

Sunday, February 16, 2014 Alicia Keys held a press conference at the New York Toy Fair at the Jacob K. Javits Center on the interactive children’s app she co-created, entitled The Journals of Mama Mae & LeeLee.
It is a storytelling app that helps children develop the courage to stand up to and prevent bullying.
The project is a partner of PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center.

Alicia discussed how raising a son has made her more of a feminist.
‘I am honoured to be raising a son and to be the example [for him] of what a woman is, should be or can be – I find that to be a really powerful position.”

I am so glad Alicia Keys took the time to see what is going on in the world with our children. So many kids are committing suicide from being bullied and it has to stop NOW! There is a no-bully policy in my kids school but it has to start in the home first. Kids are going to do what they see. This should not even be a subject but it is. The news has enough bad things going on. Keep our kids safe so they can grow up to be scholars. As parents we must teach our kids to love.

I had the chance to review the app and I love it. My daughter will be reviewing it next. Della Reese is the voice of the grandmother and her voice just captures your heart. I love the story and the pictures. There are also hands on play for the kids. I highly recommend it. Go to the App Store and search for Mookey , and The Journals of Mama Mae.

Alicia Keys is a compassionate and loving woman and I love that she is raising her son to uplift and respect women. Can’t wait to see what else is in store with Alicia Keys.

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TARGET LAUNCHES AMBAR JUST IN TIME FOR SPRING

18 Feb

Have you heard about Target’s latest collection Ámbar? It’s a new apparel & accessories collection designed with the Latina guest in mind.

I wanted to share with you a few styled pieces from the collection (with other Target owned brand pieces), as well as a tip sheet on “how to get the look”. The looks are inspired by spring’s hottest trends – vibrant colors, bold patterns and flowy styles.

Spring Trend #1 – Casual-Chic Meets Color

“A seasonal sweater that combines color and metallic is a comfortable and chic piece that can be paired with multiple wardrobe pieces for spring.”
“Nothing says spring like flowy fabrics! The Ámbar Women’s Maxi Skirt creates a standout look by mixing color and prints.”
“Top off any daytime outfit with a floppy hat – it’s a great accessory that also helps protect us from the sun.”
“Color block like a pro and carry your essentials in a stylish cross body bag.”
“A flat sandal in cognac combines comfort and style.

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Spring Trend #2 – Feminine Bold Prints

“The Ámbar printed high-low dress is a flowy & flirty piece that can seamlessly go from day to night.”
“Spring calls for pastels! Add a subtle feminine touch with pastel pink aviator glasses.”
“A beige hobo handbag is classic and versatile. Carry it on your shoulder or clip-on the removable shoulder strap to wear as a cross body bag. “
“Add glitz and glamour with a sparkly and chunky bracelet.”
“Finish your look with a nude wedge – a go-to spring staple.”

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Spring Trend #3 – Florals

“Ámbar’s tailored crop top in sour cream is an easy-to-style spring essential. Add a pop of color or bold print to stand out from the rest.”
“Keep jewelry to a minimum. A silver tone extra large boyfriend watch can add a touch of flair and pairs nicely with a neutral palette.“
“The time is prime for florals! The Ámbar rose print twill pant fits amazing and exudes springtime. “
“Carry your daytime essentials in a tan crocodile clutch to add texture – it’s chic and easily transitions to night.”
“Pointed toe nude flats are very in this season. Wear them throughout your work day or to a weekend lunch.”

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CULINARY KIDS FOOD FESTIVAL GIVEAWAY FAMILY 4 PACK TICKETS #CulinaryKidsNYBG

16 Feb

No kid will be bored during winter break when The Culinary Kids Food Festival hits the New York Botanical Gardens February 17-23.

Culinary Kids Food Festival
February 17–23, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
In the Dining Pavilion behind the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory

As part of the Garden’s Edible Academy initiative, join us for a family-friendly, weeklong food festival celebrating the relationships among plants, farms, and your favorite foods. Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden staff and the culinary team, Growing Chefs, will be on hand offering cooking demonstrations, recipes, and hands-on activities, with plenty of music and tastings to add to the fun. Bring your Festival passport along as you tinker with the science of kitchen chemistry and get to the root of foods from pickles to cheese at a variety of activity stations. The daily 1 p.m. cooking demonstration will feature kid-friendly recipes and tasty samples, while local chefs will share tips and recipes.

Activity stations:

Tip-Top Pickle Shop

Visit the Tip-Top Pickle Shop to learn more about the science and cooking behind food preservation. Experiment in our chemistry kitchen to test acids and bases, and take home a recipe to make your own pickles at home.

Cheesemonger’s Shop

Explore the fun, simple and fascinating process of cheese making and sample fresh cheeses you help to make. Learn about the animals behind the scenes and the plants they like to eat, and take an up-close look at the smallest cheesemakers of all—bacteria!

The Bakery

Experience the art of bread-making from seed to loaf, and grind your own sample of flour to take home and use in your own recipes. You’ll learn about the various grains used to make different kinds of bread, from whole wheat blends to gluten-free.

Spice Adventures

Spices are harvested around the world from plant parts for their powerful flavors, aromas, and colors. Take a sensory journey to learn the origin stories of your favorite spices and vote for your favorites by marking your spice map. Take home a delicious recipe and a passport from your culinary expedition.

Make A Seed Envelope

Grow your own! Fold your own fun seed packet to take home delicious basil seeds, and learn how to grow basil indoors as a tasty sprout, or outdoors in your summer garden. Family Garden staff will be on hand to share green thumb opportunities at the Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden in 2014 and to share news about NYBG’s exciting new garden and food education facility, the Edible Academy, opening in 2017.

Even Puppets Love to Eat!
February 21 – 23; 11 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Janice Buckner’s puppets take a musical, imaginary journey around the world in search of their favorite foods. Join Janice and the puppets on their exploratory adventures at The New York Botanical Garden as part of the Culinary Food Festival. Learn more about Janice.

Bronx Arts Ensemble Family Concert: Hansel and Gretel
In the Ross Hall; Sunday, February 23, 1 & 2:30 p.m.

Hansel and Gretel sing, dance, juggle, and do slapstick to tell the famous story of the pair meeting the Witch in the forest with a wonderful gingerbread house. Animated actors perform to live music played by the Bronx Arts Ensemble musicians. The audience will be introduced to each instrument and join in the adventure! Admission included with an All-Garden Pass.

My kids and I will definitely be attending and so will a few of the other mom bloggers. We will be in attendance on February 22nd between the hours of 10-5 so come by and visit our table and see what we have in store for the kids. One thing your kids can do at our station is write a food blog post that just might be used in a NYBG publication.

New York Botanical Gardens is hooking one of my readers up with a family four-pack of tickets to the festival. Just leave a comment and tell me what healthy foods do you encourage your kids to eat. Giveaway ends tonight 2/17 at 8pm.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post but I will be volunteering at a station.

Just a little intro to each of us:
Please check out their blogs

Monica M. Jones
So Family
http://www.sofamilyonline.com

Nichol Perez
Five Little Words
http://www.fivelittlewords.net

Karen Angustia
Mami Does it All
http://www.mamidoesitall.com

Nilsa Karimi
3CityGirlsNYC
http://www.3citygirlsnyc.wordpress.com

Denise Wei-Vital
Boyz Rule Our World
http://www.boyzruleourworld.com

Rebecca Borrero
The Mommy Sauce
http://www.themommysauce.com

Christina Cespedes
Mommy’s Mingle (co-founded with Rebecca)
http://www.meetup.com/Mommys-Mingle/

Scherrie Donaldson
Thirty Mommy
http://thirtymommy.com

Joyce Lee
Bronx PR
http://bronx-pr.com/

Nicole Perrino
BronxMama
bronxmama.com

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THE WINNER OF THE VALENTINE’S DAY TELEFLORA GIVEAWAY IS…………..

8 Feb

THE WINNER OF THE VALENTINE’S DAY TELEFLORA GIVEAWAY IS TERRY!! PLEASE DM ME YOUR NAME, MAILING ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER, AND EMAIL. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED. MORE GIVEAWAYS TO COME!

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY TO TERRY AND HIS LUCKY WIFE!!
TELEFLORA WILL CONTACT YOU WITH DELIVERY SCHEDULE.

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EVERYTHING IS AWESOME! GO SEE #THELEGOMOVIE IN THEATERS TODAY!!!

7 Feb

I took the kids to a screening of The Lego Movie on February 1st and we got to see what all the buzz was about. I grew up on Legos and since my first born Legos was a must in our house and will always be and I have even more to buy especially now that there are so many to choose from. It’s so fun building and watching the kids come up with so many creative ideas. We spend hours building as a family.

This paragraph explains what the movie is about:

This original computer animated story follows Emmet, an ordinary, rules-following, perfectly average LEGO minifigure who is mistakenly identified as the most extraordinary person and the key to saving the world. He is drafted into a fellowship of strangers on an epic quest to stop an evil tyrant, a journey for which Emmet is hopelessly and hilariously underprepared.

Here’s what I think about the movie: “Emmet” played by “Chris Platt” is not very popular with his co- workers because he follows the rules and tries too hard to be like everyone else. Once his rules are lost he comes into contact with a girl named “WyldStyle” played by “Elizabeth Banks” who mistakes him for being extraordinary and he’s off on a journey with her and a few other characters to stop “Lord Business” played by “Will Ferrell” from using crackle on everyone. This movie is very, very funny, the parents were laughing louder than the kids. I loved it. I was laughing so much I was crying. My daughter is 6 she wasn’t that into it but some parts she liked and I heard her laughing as well. She did like “WyldStyle”, and she now has me on a journey searching for these Lego movie characters that are sold out. I have to keep searching. My 10 yr old son loved it. He was laughing up a storm.

There is a theme song called “Everything is Awesome” which is cute. When you hear it you’ll know why they are singing it.

“Will Arnett” plays “Batman”, “Liam Neeson” plays “Bad Cop”, “Channing Tatum” plays “Superman” , “Morgan Freeman” plays “Vitruvius”, and “Jonah Hill” plays “Green Lantern” to name a few.

This movie is 1 hour and 40 minutes and is rated PG.
This movie is in theaters staring today February 7, 2014.
Get your tickets now and enjoy!!!
I must make it my business to get every single character for my daughter. Lego if you’re reading this please let me know when a shipment comes in. Thanks!!

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DYSON’S NEW CORDLESS VACUUMS #cutthecord @dyson

29 Jan

As an asthmatic I can tell you that DUST is a no- no. I’m not supposed to be around it, breathe it, or have things that attract it like carpet, stuffed animals, etc. The things that I have no control over that I need dust attracts like curtains, glass t.v. stand, lamp shades, ceiling fan, even an air conditioner. There are dust and germs everywhere and I been trying my hardest for years to live dust free but it seems like the gadgets that are out just isn’t doing anything for me until I was recently invited to the launch of Dyson’s new cordless vacuum cleaner Digital Slim DC59. I never used a vacuum cleaner in my apartment because I thought it was just for carpets and I don’t have carpets, just a few area rugs and a bathroom mat. That’s it, but don’t get me wrong I’ve used vacuum cleaners just now where I’m at now.

Little to my surprise this machine does it all.

First of all it’s CORDLESS. Hallelujah. If there’s one thing I hate it’s tripping over cords and I’ve been doing that a lot lately. Dyson knew and heard people complaining about that and made their customers very happy by #cutthecord .
Second, very lightweight (4.65 lbs.)
Third, it has an easy to assemble docking station that charges your vacuum that lasts for 26 minutes. It can be mounted on the wall and if you ask a New Yorker with a small apartment with hardly any room this would be great for them because it’s out the way and doesn’t take up a lot of room. Genius. I had a great time vacuuming with this cordless vac. It really sucked up all the crumbs, flour, and food off the demo floors. I compared it with other brands and this did wonders. My kids would want to vacuum everyday if we had one if these. I am head over heels for this.

Here are some facts about Digital Slim DC59:

DC59 is powered by the Dyson digital motor V6. The digital motor spins at up to 110,000 times a minute, up to 3 times faster than conventional motors contributing towards the machine’s powerful suction.

Improved pick up across every floor type
DC59’s floor tool has been engineered to be lighter and improve pick-up. A self-tightening mechanism keeps the brush bar stable and a dust capture channel prevents dirt from escaping back to the floor, increasing pick-up. The new configuration of carbon fiber filaments and nylon bristle strips removes dust and dirt across carpet and hard floors.

Cleans under low furniture
Low profile cleaner head. Stays flat to the floor when the machine is fully reclined.

Hygienic bin emptying
New hygienic one-touch bin empty. Just push the button to release the dirt. Accessible from either side.

2 Tier Radial™ cyclones
15 cyclones, arranged across two tiers, work in parallel to increase airflow and capture fine dust.

The Digital Slim DC59 retails for $499.99 and is available in February.

Anything handheld is my friend and the Dyson DC 58 handheld is one powerful vacuum. This machine is not only super light, it contains extension compartments that is great for high to reach places like my ceiling fan, curtains, and cabinets which attract lots of dust. The DC58 is very lightweight too. It also has a super hygienic dirt removal system. Just push a button and you’re done. This would make a great gift for my hubby who said he needs a handheld vacuum for his car.

Here are facts about the DC58:

The DC58 handheld vacuum cleaner is powered by the Dyson digital motor V6. This 350W motor, 2 Tier Radial™ cyclones and a re-engineered nickel manganese cobalt battery combine to provide powerful suction.

Run-time enhancing trigger
On when you need it, off when you don’t.
Many other handheld vacuum cleaners remain switched on from the moment cleaning starts. Battery power is wasted between cleaning tasks.
Dyson DC58 has a run-time enhancing trigger. Trigger grip releases instantly, meaning battery power is only used for vacuuming. It allows for 20 minutes of powerful suction.

This one retails for $249.99 and is also available come February.

The DC65 was another vacuum I tested out as well. Any vacuum that is Tangle -free is a thumbs up for me. With women in my household we always have hair everywhere. If this machine is that powerful that removes all kinds of hair then I’m throwing out my broom today!!

Here are facts about the DC65:

DC65 Animal is engineered for outstanding cleaning performance and ease of use. There’s also a Tangle-free Turbine tool to remove dirt and hair from carpets and upholstery. With its self-adjusting cleaner head and re-engineered brushbar, bristles dig deeper into carpets to remove more dust and dirt, while providing superior performance on hard floors. The DC65 has been built to achieve the highest suction at the cleaner head, twice the suction as any other vacuum.¹ The DC65 has remodeled cyclones and uses the latest Ball™ technology.

Strongest suction at the cleaner head
Many upright vacuums use fixed settings. Their cleaner heads don’t self-adjust to different floor types – the bigger the gap between cleaner head and floor, the more suction power is wasted. With an active base plate it creates the optimal cleaner head contact for every floor type, reducing air leaks and retaining more suction power. It’s designed for outstanding performance across all floors – not just carpets, but the whole of your house.

Hygienic and quick to empty
Emptying the bin on a Dyson vacuum is quick and hygienic. Just press the button to release the dirt. The bin is clear, so you can see when it needs emptying – and how much dust, dirt and pet hair the machine has captured. Dyson vacuums were the first to have clear bins – despite market researchers insisting it was a bad idea. Now clear bins are everywhere (though not all are made from the same ABS polycarbonate as riot shields, like Dyson bins).

Soft dusting brush
The Dyson Soft dusting brush gently removes dust and allergens from flat surfaces, delicate areas and upholstery. The fine nylon bristles are angled at 45° to sweep dust into the airflow, where it is sucked away. The front bristles are wider spaced to prevent sticking to furniture. A felt strip down the middle of the brush helps protect polished and delicate surfaces from scratching.

The Dyson DC65 retails between $499-$649.

I enjoyed learning about these great machines I would love any of them. Dyson is a brand that I trust and is going to be around for a long time. There are more surprises from Dyson coming soon so keep your eyes and ears open.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was invited to the launch event. All opinions are 100% my own.
Pictures below. Enjoy!

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VALENTINE’S DAY GIVEAWAY (TELEFLORA SWIRLING BEAUTY BOUQUET) #giveaway #valentinesday

28 Jan

Teleflora the nation’s best florists is hooking one of my readers up with their beautiful Swirling Beauty Bouquet for Valentine’s Day. Who doesn’t love flowers and in a beautiful vase? Who’s that special someone in your life that you want to give this bouquet to? All you have to do is leave a comment below and tell me who you want to give it to and why? You must be subscribed to my blog and leave a comment. That’s it!! I will pick a winner and you will have your flowers hand delivered to your door to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your loved one. Giveaway runs from January 28- February 7, 2014. Winner will be announce on my blog and Twitter.

What makes Teleflora stand out from the rest is Teleflora does not pre-package their flowers in cardboard boxes. Flower companies that do that always have damaged flowers once it arrives to the customer. Teleflora’s flower arrangements are artistically arranged by a local florist using only the freshest flowers available, and each gift is personally delivered in a vase in most cases, the same day you place your order. Follow Teleflora on Twitter @Teleflora and check out all the beautiful bouquets for all occasions.

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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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