Five Little Words

SHOPPING TRIP AT TIME WARNER CENTER FOR ME & MY SISTER (National Sister’s Day) #OKTWCSistersDay

OK Magazine and Time Warner Center partnered up to host a contest called National Sister’s Day. It consisted of a day spent at the fabulous Time Warner Center in Columbus Circle with shopping, lunch, and beauty makeovers for you and your sister. I tweeted why my sister and I deserved to win using the hashtag #OKTWCSistersDay and I won!!! When I told my sister we won her mouth dropped open and we were jumping up and down and screaming with joy.

We decided to go on Friday, August 9th because this contest package was good until August 11th.
We picked up our VIP passes which gave us discounts and treats throughout the shops. Also in our goodie bag was a $50 gift card to Sephora and other goodies from them as well as our makeover session voucher, and our lunch voucher to A Voce Italian restaurant. I also loved the hand written note from Stacey Feder Vice-President of Time Warner Center welcoming us to a day of fun for Sister’s Day.

Of course when we arrived the first thing on our minds were shopping!!! We started at H&M and saw so many amazing fall clothing that I wanted it all. I found a few things that I took home like a spiked ring, and beautiful lavender and purple polka dot scarf. I spent no more than $20. My sister loves silver and found herself a cute ring as well for under $6.

Our next stop was C Wonder. I absolutely love this colorful store. There’s a car, bicycles, and a zebra inside which blends in perfect and we just had to get pics. I found a new iPhone 5 case on sale for $13 regular price $45. Not bad right?

We made our way downstairs to Whole Foods. My favorite market in the world!!! There’s so much to choose from you definitely will not leave empty handed. My daughter requested to me to bring her back some sushi and macaroni and cheese. She said “write it down so you don’t forget”. I didn’t write it down but I should have because I almost forgot the mac and cheese. Next time I will listen to her. One of the perks from the VIP pass in Whole Foods was a free beverage any size at the Coffee Bar. We had iced lattes. I purchased so much food that the kids were happy and i was happy I didnt have to cook. At the bakery I took it easy. I got a lemon tart and a chocolate cheesecake mini. My sister purchased the pasta salad.

Our pre -fixe lunch reservation at A Voce was scheduled for 1pm. We arrived 5 minutes early and loved what we saw on the menu. We started with the flakiest soft bread and cheese spread, then our salads came, followed by ravioli stuffed with eggplant and garlic. Oven dried tomatoes were on top with grappa raisins, and pine nuts. For dessert we ordered tiramisu which is lady fingers, mascarpone mousse, and amaretto coffee syrup. Can I just say everything was delicious. We really enjoyed our meal and would love to return. They are also having specials for Restaurant Week so if you want to try them out I suggest you go.

Our beauty makeover session at Sephora was scheduled for 2pm but we didn’t make it in time because we got out of the restaurant a little late so Sephora was kind enough to schedule another day for us to come back but that didn’t stop us from shopping. We racked up and we found lip gloss that actually lasts on our lips, and I also got L”Occitane’s almond skin oil to die for. The brand “Fresh” has a sugar lemon soap wish smells like fresh lemons and sugar. Sooo good!! They also gave us free samples too. My sister also found her a eyebrow pencil that she is very happy with as well as other items.

Lucky Brand was our last stop of the day where I found a iPad case for $5 regular $35. Now you tell me that isn’t a great deal!! I loved the clothing here too. Beautiful fall colors for women, men, and kids.

My sister and I enjoyed our day together very much and will be going back soon to get our makeovers. We want to thank OK Magazine, and Time Warner Center for a wonderful day of fun shopping, great food, and just the girls hanging out!! We ❤NY!!!

These opinions expressed are my own. I was not compensated for this post but was given a contest prize package for my sister and I to use in Time Warner Center.
Enjoy the pics of the stores we visited and some of the items we purchased.

Comments 6 Comments
Categories Family, Shopping, What's Going On?

“LEARN WITH HOMER” READING APP FOR IPAD (AGES 3-6)

10 Aug

My daughter was very excited when I told her I was downloading a new reading app called Learn with Homer. She loves reading and spelling and when I found out that this was a reading program app I didn’t mind getting it for her. I encourage reading 100% and I love seeing my kids enjoy it. Reading should be fun and that’s what Learn with Homer is all about.

Reading, vocabulary, phonics, and comprehension is what your 3-6 year old will learn. My daughter loved It all. Even my son joined in and he’s 10 years old. He got a kick out of it and helped his sister out. They had fun. She passed levels 1-5 and is waiting for levels 6-11 to become available. She checks everyday. She also enjoyed Story Time especially Nursery Rhymes.

What I love as a parent is how friendly and welcoming the characters voices are. The quotes are fun and we repeat them every time they say it. Some of the quotes are: “Wiggly Ears Cheers!”, “Hooray and Happy Day!”, or “Wow,wow,wow!”. These quotes are said by the characters when your child got something right or when they’re happy about something your child did.
I also loved how fast my daughter picked up on everything with no problem. She even showed me a few things. You can also track your child’s progress on the parent site. This app should be in every classroom and home.

You start with a thinking cap where your child takes a picture of themselves and get to choose a cap. My daughter is up to 8 different caps. She can choose from a cupcake, to a cactus, or even a princess.

There is also voice recording, and drawing and what child doesn’t love drawing? In Homer’s Clubhouse your child can see their drawings, and listen to their voice recordings in “My Board”. My daughter made sure to also save some of her drawings on my iPad as well. Drawings can also be shared via email or Facebook through the parent website.
In “Discover The World” your child will become a better reader with the help of Homer and Millie exploring animals, learning about the five senses, and sight and sound.

So we really enjoy Learn with Homer app and hope there will be a part 2.
We are very impressed and are anxiously awaiting the other levels to open up.
My iPad mini is my daughter’s iPad mini as long as Learn with Homer is on there.

The Learn with Homer app can be downloaded for free on the App Store.
These opinions expressed are my own. I was given a ITunes gift card to purchase bundles.
Enjoy pictures!

Comments 4 Comments
Categories Family, Kid Reviews, Kids, Reviews, What's Going On?

La Casa Azul Bookstore Summer Pop Up Shop Anniversary

7 Aug

August 6, 2013 made exactly one month since La Casa Azul Bookstore Summer Pop Up Shop rented space at La Marqueta in Spanish Harlem. I live a block away and knew I had to show my support to the bookstore because that is something that we need in the neighborhood. My daughter, and I arrived early as cameras were still rolling, and as they were still setting up but we were welcomed with open arms to relax on their comfy chairs and explore all the wonderful children’s books. Once my daughter saw all the books you know I couldn’t leave without purchasing a few. As if she doesn’t have enough already. Lol. I’m glad she enjoys books and reading. Every child should.

There was also a cupcake decorating class opening day and my daughter decorated three to take home and share. She loves cooking. Kids were given gift bags full of goodies for coming out.

There are so many books to choose from such as cookbooks, math, nursery rhymes, picture books, and so on. They also sell toys, and gifts, and have storytelling events, and arts & crafts. Your kids will love it all!!

I first found out about La Casa Azul Bookstore from attending a book signing for a cookbook that I wanted. Their bookstore is located at 143 E. 103rd st. between Lexington and Park. This is an independent bookstore and they sell bilingual books for children, and Latino literature. I absolutely love this bookstore. You can sign up for their newsletter on their website and find out all the activities that go on there for adults and kids. http://www.lacasaazulbookstore.com
The owner is very nice and was a pleasure to meet.

The summer pop up shop is coming to an end on August 17th so get there as soon as possible. If you miss it head to their location on 103rd street. The hours for the pop up shop is 11-5 Tuesday – Saturday. The address is 1590 Park Avenue on 115th street.

I was not compensated for this post. These are my opinions.

Enjoy the pictures.

Comments 2 Comments
Categories Family, Kids, What's Going On?

@KittyBradshaw 5 Year Blogging Anniversary ReCap #KBBlog5

5 Aug

When I was invited to Kitty Bradshaw’s 5 year blogging anniversary I knew I had to RSVP quickly. I did not want to miss out on meeting all the other fabulous bloggers and sponsors who were coming out. I met Kitty at a prior blogger event and she was a pleasure to meet and I wanted to get to know her more.

The event led at Studio Arte Space turned out wonderful. Kitty wore a gorgeous pink dress made by Von Vonni and before I could ask her where she got it I knew I had to have one so I did my research and just so happen they were doing a contest that I entered and won. I was so happy and can’t wait to wear my dress. You can find them on Twitter @Von_Vonni
You will want one in every color.

Another sponsor who attended was Golden Krust. They specialize in the best beef, chicken, or veggie patties. Their jerk chicken was to die for. They even brought along rum cake which I haven’t had in years and was diving in. Everything was delicious and they can cater for me anytime. Their twitter handle is @GoldenKrustBkry

Tipsy Tasty Cupcakes was definitely tasty. I didn’t get it until I ate a few why they called it tipsy tasty. Well, they add different types of liquor to each cupcake. There were Red Velvet Hennessy cupcakes, and Strawberry Champagne cupcakes. You will love every single one. I guess it was a night full of desserts with liquor. I enjoyed those very much! Check them out on twitter @TipsyTasty

Cabot Cheese who sponsored the event had a great cheese platters to keep guests HAPPY!! How can you not love cheese? I love Cabot!! Cheese aims to please!! Follow @CabotCoop through twitter.

Dessert Stylists was also not to be missed with their delicious dessert. There were a variety of so many I believe I tried them all. They are definitely a must have at any event. This was my kind of party with all the mouth watering food and desserts not to be passed up. They can be found on twitter @DessertStylists

District Drive powered by General Motors my absolute favorite car sponsor was on deck to give a few lucky tweeters a chance at winning a 10 day car loan and $100 gift card. You know I had to do my magic and tweet all night because nothing was stopping me from winning. Well all I have to say is…. I WON!! I was one of the winners and I am so excited to travel and explore with the family in an awesome SUV. I was set to get the vehicle this month but I sprained my ankle so I had to put it off till October, but that’s okay that is my birthday month so it’s all good. Can’t wait to show you what I picked and all the pictures as well. @GM and @DistrictDrive is where you will find them on twitter.

DJ Sean Soul was spinning the music and he took me way back that I was Shazaming everything I could. Lot of 80’s music like Prince, Tears for Fears, Culture Club, Wham. I was in heaven. I loved it all. I couldn’t stop singing one song after another. Some of us were dancing as well. Glad he was part of the event. Big props!! Keep doing your thing! If you need a DJ find him on Twitter @DJSEANSOUL

Jaguar and Company Clothier who had male models showing off stylish and fashionable pieces. The bow ties stood out because men and women were wearing them which what what this company is all about. The line is feminine and masculine and with the beautiful patterns and gorgeous fabrics like silk, & wool you will want a few pieces in your closet. The models made sure you saw what Jaguar and Company Clothier is all about. Follow them @JagandCo on twitter.

Some of the sponsors listed below were also in attendance or had items given to us in the gift bags. You can find them in Twitter as well.
Tide Pods
nRelate
Barefoot Wine
Lower Eastside Service Center
Rockwell Print & Media Group
Command Brand
Dirty Dog Treat Boxes
12-Fold
Panama Jack Sunscreen
Green and Black Chocolate
Epilady USA
Sprigs like
April Marin

I just want to thank the lady of the night Kitty Bradshaw and all the sponsors for a fun filled night of networking and celebrating her anniversary. I can’t wait for my anniversary. Sponsors I’m coming for you!!

Comments 2 Comments
Categories Blogger Event, What's Going On?

I’M ON A MISSION FOR A NEW FALL/WINTER WARDROBE MAKEOVER

31 Jul

I’m in need of a new fall/winter wardrobe makeover and maybe hair makeover as well. I’m loving all the new looks and patterns I see and I can’t wait to get out there and find my colors that I will proudly rock for 2013/2014. I’ve been on Pinterest and its amazing how you can throw something together and it’s looks like you spent a million bucks then you see it was from H&M or Marshalls at killer prices. Even Target has been doing it’s thing with designers collaborating and bringing their pieces to their stores for incredible prices. I am so glad I live near these stores and try to get in there early and find the bargains.

I am looking for simple yet chic pieces with funky patterns and lots of accessories. I love jewelry and scarves so I will be on a mission for new pieces. I used to shy away from bold prints and bright colors but I love it now!! You can coordinate so many pieces, and a blazer or scarf makes a difference. I never used to really shop online for clothes because I didn’t like the fact that I couldn’t try on the item but there are so many sales, and I’ve found a few sites that I’ve already ordered from and know what size to purchase. I also love free shipping and handling and YES I look for an extra 10 or 20% off.

I’m ready for the pants suits and dresses with fall colors and prints. I want more riding boots and handbags to match. I’m also in need of a new leather jacket and cute toggle or pea coat. I also would love a cute trench coat.

Uniqlo another great store has beautiful clothes for everyone including children. I always go there for myself and spend more on my kids. I think I come out out with one item for myself. Their prices are very reasonable and they always have a sale.

Joe Fresh is another one of my favorite stores and has an awesome selection of clothing for men and women. It seems like they always have a sale too but even if they didn’t I would shop there regardless.

So, I know where to shop I just have to hurry up and get the clothes before they disappear and step up my wardrobe a notch. I have a lot of conferences to go to this year and I wanna look good!! Fall clothes come out during the early summer months and you have to get it while you can. I walk into a few stores and see coats and back to school clothes on the racks before August.

Before I do any shopping for myself I still have to do back to school shopping for the kids. Time flies!! I can’t wait to show you what my new wardrobe is going to look like. Now I just need some gift cards from my favorite stores and I’m all set.
Just a few pictures from my Pinterest board.

Comments 2 Comments
Categories Fashion, What's Going On?

MADPAX 3D BACKPACKS FOR BACK TO SCHOOL 2013

28 Jul

When I attended Momtrend’s back to school event a few weeks ago I was so excited to see new trends and meet some amazing people. There was one person in the room who was just as excited as I was and her name is Tina Huber (one of the creators), a very sweet, down to earth person who absolutely loves her packs and love getting the word out about them.Tina is the Mad scientist for MadPax a great 3D backpack company that your kids are going to want in every color and shape. As a parent I like my kids and myself to have a style of our own that stands out, one of a kind. With these packs your kid will definitely stand out in a trendy way. When I saw these backpacks I couldn’t decide which one I wanted. They are very colorful and the styles are what took me away. There are different varieties ranging from Bubble which is what I picked for my daughter, to Later Gator which has spikes sticking out of the back (very soft), Spiketus Rex which looks like spikes on the back of a T-Rex, and the newest creation Blok which has a bunch of squares which looks like a puzzle or legos.

There are 3 different sizes, (full pack, half, and nibbler).there are also packcessories available like pencil cases which are great to add to your collection. Prices for everything range from $15 to $60 and I say it’s worth every penny and will be a hit with your child. Make sure you tell your child to memorize the website http://www.madpax.com because All their classmates will want to know where they can get one. I’m thinking of getting myself one as well. I also want to try the Mighty Bites with the handle just the right size for my cell phone and Ipod. Very trendy, and funky. My daughter can’t wait for school to start so she can rock her Madpax Bubble backpack and I can’t wait to get pictures!!

Your child will never say “I forgot my backpack” because it’s hard to forget a backpack that stands out from the rest.

You can find these packs in a variety of retail stores or online at http://www.madpax.com

What is your favorite MadPax?
Parents will you rock a MadPax?
Enjoy the pictures below. Tina Huber is featured in a few of the pictures as well.
These opinions expressed are all mine Nichol Perez. I was not compensated for this post.

Comments 6 Comments
Categories Blogger Event, Fashion, Kid Reviews, Kids, Reviews, What's Going On?

NEW POST IS READY!

27 Jul

THE NEW POST IS READY BELOW! ENJOY!

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Categories What's Going On?

JUST A FEW CELEBRITIES I’VE HAD THE PLEASURE OF MEETING.

27 Jul

These are just a few celebrities I’ve met in my life. They were all down to earth and I loved talking to them. Sorry if some of the pictures are blurry. Some of them were before my upgrade to an IPad mini and IPhone5. I’ve also met Henry Winkler and Kevin James who were also very nice and I had pictures with the both of them but don’t know where I saved it. I have also seen Janet Jackson, Tyler Perry, and Jill Scott at a Red Carpet movie screening. The list goes on and on.I look forward to meeting more celebrities in the future.
Here are the names of the celebrities pictured above:
Tina Fet- actress
Marcus Samuelson- chef
Sandra Lee- chef/TV host/author
Ty Pennington- TV host
Pit Bull- rapper/actor
Alison Sweeney- actress/author
Wendy Williams- TV talk show host/actress/author
Minnie and Mickey Mouse- Cartoon characters
Tyson Beckford- model/TV host
Shaq- NBA Basketball Player
Will Smith- actor/rapper
Jaden Smith- actor/rapper
Jerry O’Connell-actor
Kerri Lee Walsh Jennings- professional beach volleyball player
Elisabeth Rohm- actress/author
Jane Lynch- actress
Elle Varner- singer/songwriter
Darryl Strawberry- former baseball player

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Categories Book Signing, Celebrity Scrap Book, What's Going On?

The Bomboloni (What Is A Bomboloni You Ask?)

19 Jul

What is the first word that comes to mind when you hear Bomboloni? The first word that came to my mind was amazing!! What is a Bomboloni you ask? It is an Italian light pastry filled to capacity with fresh creme or fruit. There are more than 20 flavors to choose from creme brûlée to blood orange, and even nutella. I tried the vanilla cream and espresso. They are all natural and no preservatives.

At just $2 each you will want to try a variety of flavors so they have 4 for $7 or 6 for $10.
They also sell natural Italian gelato and sorbetti. The flavors change daily but when I went they had watermelon and a few other flavors available. I will try the gelato the next time.

I also had an iced coffee which they sell along with espresso’s and lattes.
I first heard about Bomboloni from the Cooking Channel and wanted to see what it was all about and I’m glad I did. These are great for picnics, bbq’s, to bring to work, whatever occasion. I know I’ve walked past this place a million times and never knew what I was missing.

They are located at 187 Columbus Avenue between 68th & 69th street NY, NY 10023 (212) 877-3080
Check their website for hours http://www.bomboloni.com/cafe.html
These opinions are 100% my own. I was not compensated for this post.
Enjoy the pics!!

Comments 2 Comments
Categories Food, Food Reviews, Reviews, What's Going On?

Jade & Jasper Showroom Fall 2013 Collection @JadeJasper2

17 Jul

When I received an email inviting me to the Jade & Jasper showroom to have a peak at their Fall 2013 collection I was counting down the days with excitement. After meeting with Jade and Jasper at a Getting Gorgeous event in April we spoke about having a Twitter party which took place in June and gave away gorgeous pieces and everyone had a great time including myself.

I knew after receiving 3 pieces I picked out to review that the Jade & Jasper collection was my favorite and was going to be a big hit with women everywhere. Not only do they offer quality pieces of fashion jewelry but it is also affordable and trendy. Jade & Jasper empowers women to express themselves. You can also become a consultant yourself and receive free jewelry. You can learn more about that on their website ( http://www.jadeandjasper.com )

When I walked into the showroom I didn’t want to leave. I would love to have a room full of jewelry. I wanted to take everything home. Breathtaking!! There are so many collections to choose from.

I was immediately taken by the Urban Grunge Collection. Love the metals, leathers, and studs. There is a Golden Stakes bracelet for $49 that I absolutely must have, and the Studded Revolver bangles for $38. The Dark Romance Collection is something I can see myself in as well. The Dark Desire Studs $28 is a step up for me, and the Awaked Love Ring $64 is on my wish list. Also the necklaces were a must have especially when I combined them with a few other pieces. A few of the necklaces had fringe hanging on them which was very chick. Another favorite was knowing that some of the rings stretch because I do not know my ring size and I always sometimes buy the wrong size and want the ring in a certain finger and it doesn’t fit. With these rings it will fit on any finger. Can you say fabulous?!!!!

I’ve always worn 14k gold but after meeting Jade & Jasper and seeing how their jewelry complimented me I encourage women to try different styles. You never know until you try. Don’t stick to the basics. Go all out! Be bold and explore!! Also those pops of color found in the rings will make any outfit stand out.

There are lots of celebrities wearing Jade & Jasper from Dancing with the Stars, True Blood, and Basketball Stars just to name a few even men.

Also check out the website for pieces that are available now from the Spring/Summer collection.
I enjoyed meeting everyone in the showroom and can’t wait for the next Twitter party for the new collection!! I will keep you posted.

Jade & Jasper will always be a part of my jewelry collection.
Enjoy the pictures . Love all the pieces!!

I was not compensated off this post. I did receive a bracelet as a gift. All opinions on my blog are 101% my own.