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Category Archives: Christmas 2015

Christmas Card Ornaments 2015

Posted on December 28, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Christmas 2015, Photo Obsessed, RNYM's Picks .

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post, the link included is an affiliate link.  All opinions expressed are my own. 

When we first had kids we took great care to capture the perfect photo and choose the perfect Christmas card to send to family members and friends.  This tradition has not changed in the past 6 years.  In the beginning, when we only had one, I would frame one every year and put it on the wall.  As the years passed this took up a lot of room, but I loved the cards and wanted to save them in some way.

I do of course put one in each child’s memory box but to me that didn’t seem like enough.  A self proclaimed Shutterflyaholic, that’s when I had an idea.  I would scan our Christmas card and make an ornament out of it.

all shutterfly ornaments

Although there are many different choices on the site, I have fallen in love with the Pewter ornament and just adore the way they have come out.  Its a great memory every year when I put them on the tree, and the kids love them too.

Here are the photos of ours over the years (please excuse the poor quality, they are actually beautiful in person).

2010

Shutterfly Ornament 6

2011

Shutterfly Ornament 1

2012

Shutterfly Ornament 2

2013

Shutterfly Ornament 3

2014

Shutterfly Ornament 4

2015

Shutterfly Ornament 5

One thing that I love about these ornaments is that they are also very affordable since Shutterfly sends out $20 off coupons regularly.

1 Comment .

WPPAC Presents Tarzan- REVIEW!

Posted on December 22, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Christmas 2015, Day Trips, Day Trips, Events, Out and about..., Reviews, RNYM's Picks .

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post as we were invited to a performance. All opinions expressed are my own.

I LOVE THE THEATER.  I want my children to love it too.  But its nearly impossible to just pick the correct age to begin bringing them.  Then, you have to choose a good venue, not too large so that they can actually see and experience, not get bored because its too small and they are too removed.  And then, you have to choose a show that is familiar enough to capture them, and keep their attention.  Especially because of the COSTS associated with attending live theater. At WPPAC the family four pack (which is still available at this time) is only $135 which is amazing.

Well theater lovers, look no further.  We attended the WPPAC show Tarzan this past weekend and it was everything I have been searching for.

Amenities:

It is a smaller theater, not a bad seat in the house. The seats are super comfortable with modern capabilities.  There is lots of leg room and no matter where you are, you can really see and experience the show.

The view of the stage from our seat (excuse terrible cell phone picture).

Tarzan stage

Getting there is a quick 30-40 minute drive, and parking in the local lot a breeze.  If you park on the 5th floor you can walk right into the theater in a well lit garage.  Oh and parking is only $1 per hour.

There is a great little snack bar that you can take advantage of where they also have little souvenirs of the show for purchase.  Right behind the snack bar is the restrooms, which were comfortable and SUPER CLEAN.

(A) and his cousin (F) at the concession stand.

Tarzan Concession 2

REVIEW:

The actors at WPPAC are all professionals.  The singing and acting was EXCELLENT.  Tarzan’s mother had a voice that touched my soul.  The child actors were also a great pleasure to see.  (A) was very excited to see boys like himself performing on stage.

(A) has seen the cartoon many times before and was immediately into the show.  He sat quietly through the first act (which is quite the feat if you know anything about 5 year old boys).  At intermission when the audience stepped out to use the restrooms and get refreshments, he spent time running through our aisles pretending to be a gorilla.

Tarzan Gorilla 1

Tarzan Gorilla 2

He was ready and excited for the second act but wanted to sit in Nana’s lap.  This was no problem because of the modern comfortable seats in the theater.  When we could tell he had gotten a little tired she told him that he could put his head back and he said “No Nana, I want to see the show”.

It was also great to see him learning musical cues and wanting to show his appreciation.  At one point when the cast had almost finished a number he was unsure if it was time to clap and so he leaned over and asked, “do we clap now?”

He made it through and at the end he wanted to know where the music came from, so we walked down to the stage and I showed him where the grates were that led to the pit.  This amazed him.  When he turned around and saw the monitors he also asked what those were for.  We had a little musical theater lesson.

(A) and his cousin (F) down by the stage.

Tarzan Stage Photo

When we exited the theater we heard that the two young boys who had played leads were going to be in the lobby speaking to people. I have NEVER seen (A) get nervous or quiet, but with these boys he was.  He was totally in awe.  I was finally able to get him to ask if they would sign his playbill, and they happily agreed.

Tarzan Signing playbill

In the car I asked (A) if he wanted me to hold his playbill and he said “No mom, I’ve got it”.  He is treasuring it.  He already has it up on his high shelf where (E) can’t get at it.

Tarzan Signed playbill

BUY TICKETS:

Group packages, and Gift Certificates also available. Performances run December 26, 28, 29 January 2, 8, 9 at 7 pm and December 19, 20, 26, 27, 30, January 2, 3, 9, 10 at 2 pm.

Take advantage of our family four pack on Dec 18, 19, 26, 28 & 29 at 7pm. Get 2 adults and 2 child tickets for $135 dollars. That’s a 15% savings. Tickets range from $25-$47. For tickets and more information visit www.wppac.com or call (914) 328-1600.

White Plains Performing Arts Center is located at 11 City Place on the 3rd floor of City Center in White Plains, NY.

3 Comments .

Santa Trolley- Review

Posted on December 18, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Christmas 2014, Christmas 2015, Day Trips, Day Trips, Events, Out and about..., Reviews, Travel .

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post as we were invited for a ride.  All opinions expressed are my own.

I OWE this review.  Two years ago we went here and although it was cool I personally wasn’t blown away by the Santa they had used.  I wasn’t sure how to approach it and so I didn’t post.  I was so stuck on that one little detail (I thought it was a big deal) that I lost focus on who and what mattered most.

Santa Trolley 3

We researched and went because its close to my best friend (Aunt Shelby’s) house.  It was a combined visit with her and Christmas activity to do with the kids.  Its not super far away, but as many know the drive through CT can be a bear if you don’t know when to make the trip. 

Meet Aunt Shelby

Shelby Trolley

So here is our experience at the Shoreline Trolley Museum.

(E) was so young she has no recollection of the visit, but (A) is another story entirely.  He remembers every moment.  If my posting this is any indication, I have to tell you, he asks when we are going again all the time.

Emma Santa Trolley

He remembers getting to ride on a cool Trolley (it was very cool) like Daniel Tiger.  He remembers being able to drive (a little).  He loved looking out the windows at the lights along the way.

Santa Trolley 4

Once there, he loved the train car and the other decorated Trolley cars around the yard.  He still talks about the Hot Chocolate and the cookies that were out for us.  He loved that the wait for Santa was short, and that Santa really spoke to him (he didn’t have 10,000 other boys and girls waiting for their turn so he was able to actually spend some time with him).

Train Car

Hot Coa Coa Trolley

Interactive Santa Trolley

At the main building there is also an adorable little Trolley museum with some interactive displays as well.

Santa Trolley 1

Santa Trolley 2

He talks about it all the time.  He was 3, he is now 5.  We have gone on some pretty cool trips, been on the Polar Express (which he loved), and so many other attractions, and he still talks about this one.

For more information about the Shore Line Trolley Museum check out their website: http://shorelinetrolley.org/about/.

Locally Owned Restaurants

Posted on December 17, 2015 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Ashley's Lists, Christmas 2015, Out and about..., RNYM's Picks .

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post.

Right now is a great time to show some support for local restaurants.  Not only do gift certificates make amazing presents, they are also a great way to have delish food without having to cook when we are so busy like we are at this time of year.

Eat local

I know I appreciate gift cards to restaurants greatly because I always feel guilty spending money on a night out. BUT if they are a gift I have an excuse.  I not only have the night off from cooking, but better yet, a forced adult night with RNYD which we rarely get a chance to have. 

So Since you all wanted them on the list for great places to shop locally and the list got long (very long) we decided to make it its own post.  Here are great local restaurants to check out (organized by town).

You may want to “pin” it for the next time you need a good place to eat!

NYACK

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8 North Broadway
8 North Broadway Nyack
845-353-1200
8northbroadway.com

 

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Broadway Bistro
845.353.8361
3 South Broadway, Nyack
3broadwaybistro.com

 

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Communal Kitchen
162 Main Street Nyack
845.535.3133
communalkitchennyack.com

golden_mushroom_nyack_web-logo
The Golden Mushroom
425 N Highland Ave Nyack
845-358-4203
thegoldenmushroom.com

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Velo
12 North Broadway Nyack
845-353-7667
VeloNyack.com

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Strawberry Place
72 S Broadway Nyack
845-358-9511
facebook.com/StrawberryPlace

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Wasabi
110 Main street Nyack
845-358-7977
wasabichi.com/index.html

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Hudson House
134 Main Street Nyack
845-353-1355
hudsonhousenyack.com

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Amici Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
303 Route 59 Central Nyack
845-353-1650
amicinyack.net

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Casa del Sol
104 Main St. Nyack
845-353-9846
casaofnyack.com

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Alaines French Bistro
9 Ingalls St. Nyack
845-535-3315
alainsbistro.com

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Olde Village Inn
97 Main St. Nyack
845-358-1160
www.facebook.com/ovinyack/

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Art Café Nyack
65 South Broadway Nyack
845-353-4230
artcafenyack.com

PIERMONT

 

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Xaviers

506 Piermont Avenue Piermont
845- 359-7007
xaviars.com

 

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Freelance Café
(845) 365-3250
506 Piermont Avenue Piermont
xaviars.com

 

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Hinode
55 Rt 9W Piermont
845-359-4003

 

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Tequila Sal y Limon
468 Piermont Ave. Piermont
845-680-6741

 

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Cornetta’s
641 Piermont Avenue Piermont
845-359-9852/845-359-0410
www.cornettas.com

 

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Sidewalk Bistro
482 Piermont Ave Piermont
845-680-6460
sidewalkbistro.com

 

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14 and Hudson
457 Piermont Avenue
 Piermont
845-680-0014
14andhudson.com

 

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O’Lar
587 Piermont Ave. Piermont
845-848-2207
facebook.com/O-lar-277842725590776/

 

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Cafe Portorfino
587 Piermont Ave Piermont
845-359-7300
portofinoinpiermont.com

 

CONGERS

 

Screen Shot 2015-12-13 at 8.47.31 PM

Restaurant X
845-268-6555
117 North Route 303, Congers
xaviars.com

 

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Saffron
97 South Route 303, Congers
845-767-4444
saffroncongersny.com

 

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Kennelly’s
962 N Rt 9w Congers
845-268-9896
facebook.com/kennellys.house/

 

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Ricks club American
100 lake road, Congers
845-268-8787
ricksclubamerican.com

 

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Bolzanos
75 North Route 9W Congers
845-268-9671
bolzanorestaurant.com

 

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Sangria’s Restaurant
45 Lake Rd Congers
845-589-0547
facebook.com/Sangrias-Mexican-restaurant-740787432673345/

 

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The Station Kitchen and Bar
17 North Rockland Avenue Congers
845 767-4007
thestationkitchenandbar.com

 

VALLEY COTTAGE

 

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Wiskey Kitchen
60 RT 303, Valley Cottage
845-535-3666
thewhiskey-kitchen.com

 

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Cinco de Mayo
44 Route 303, Valley Cottage
845-535-3321
cincodemayovalleycottage.com

 

NEW CITY

 

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Tequila Sol y limon

195 East South Main Street New City
845-499-2155
tequilany.com/#

 

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Blu Fig
191 South Main Street New City
845.708.5686
blufig.net

 

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La Terrazza
291 South Main Street
 New City
845-638-0757
laterrazza.com

 

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Agnello’s
170 North Main Street New City
845.639.5373
agnellosbrickovenpizza.com

 

Screen Shot 2015-12-13 at 9.06.47 PM
Gary and Company
49 S Main St
 New City
845-639-1700
garyandcompany.com

 

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Italiana’s
253 South Little Tor Road New City
845-708-7500
italianasrestaurant.com

 

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Burger Loft
395 south main street new city
845-499-2409
theburgerloft.com

 

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Rocco’s
170 S. Main Street New City
845-638-1375
Roccos.com

 

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Bombay Grill
261 S Little Tor Rd New City
845- 323-4049
bombaygrillnewcity.com

 

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Sazone
Town Plaza – 191 S. Main St. New City
845-499-2660
sazonetapas.com

 

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Michaels on Main
381 S Main St New City
845-638-2224
facebook.com/michaelsonmain381south/

 

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Jolie’s

4 New Valley Rd. New City
845-709-6733
joliesrestaurant.com

 

Alfredos
189 S Main St New City
845-634-3300

 

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Ella
137 South Main Street New City
845-638-6184
ellanewcity.com/index.php

 

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Austin’s Ale House
190 S Main St New City
845-499-2294
facebook.com/ExperienceAustins/

 

PEARL RIVER

 

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Joe and Joe’s
65 East Central Ave Pearl River
845-620-1800
joeandjoerestaurant.com

 

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The Saloon
45-49 West Central Ave. Pearl River, NY 10965
845-735-5300
pearlriversaloon.com

 

Kwan Tai
22 E. Central Ave Pearl River
845-735-5906

 

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Muddy Brook Café
14 S Main St. Pearl River
845-735-5665
facebook.com/Muddy-Brook-Cafe-184445498241245/

 

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Green Star Café
163 N Middletown Rd Pearl River
845-620-0055
facebook.com/GreenStar-Restaurant-271829443018880/

 

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Louie’s on the Avenue
160 East Central Ave. Pearl River
845-7735-4344
louiesontheavenue.com

 

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Quinta Steakhouse
24 E Central Ave, Pearl River
845-735-5565
quintasteakhouse.com

 

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Jane Café
40 S Main St, Pearl River
845-920-1100

 

TAPPAN

 

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Vicolo Ristorante
216 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan, NJ
201-497-8777
vicoloristorante.com

 

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Giostra

65 Old Tappan Rd. Tappan
845-848-2575
giostrany.com

 

 

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Swad
80 Route 303 Tappan
845-680-6116
swadny.com/#

 

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La Fontanella

52-54 Route 303 Tappan
845-398-3400
lafontanellatappan.com

 

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LILO Pizza & Bistro
31 Route 303 Tappan
845-398-1024

 

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‘76 house
110 Main Street Tappan
845-359-5476

 

ORANGEBURG
Screen Shot 2015-12-09 at 9.15.26 PM
Cloverleaf Inn Taproom
479 Western Hwy Orangeburg
845-359-5999
cloverleafinn.net

 

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Del ‘ Arte Restaurant
20 Mountainview Avenue Orangeburg
845-365-2727
delarterestaurant.com/index.htm

 

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il Fresco
15 kinds highway Orangeburg
398-0200
il-fresco.com

 

Screen Shot 2015-12-10 at 7.00.00 PM
Cassie’s
203 Route 303 Orangeburg
845-359-8000
cassiespizzeria.com/cassies-orangeburg/

 

BLAUVELT

 

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Bailey’s
136 East Erie St Blauvelt
845-398-1454
baileysny.com

 

NANUET

 

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Growler and Gill
148 Route 59, Nanuet
845-507-0899
growlerandgill.com

 

Screen Shot 2015-12-15 at 6.24.06 AM
Nanuet Hotel Restaurant
nanuethotelrestaurant.com
132 Main St.  Nanuet, NY 10954
(845) 623-9600

 

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Jacqulines
129 Main Street Nanuet
845-507-0120
jwineonmain.com

 

WEST NYACK

 

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Lulus Café
726 W Nyack Rd West Nyack
845-358-5822
facebook.com/Lulus-Cafe-160980620591876/

 

HAVERSTRAW

 

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Unoodles
14 Main Street, Haverstraw
845-947-7625
unoodles.net

 

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The Filling Station
45 S Route 9W West Haverstraw
845-786-9000
tfsburgerworks.com

 

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Babes
73 Railroad Ave West Haverstraw
845-429-8647
facebook.com/Babes-Bar-and-Grill-134705390973/

 

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Union
22-24 New Main Street Haverstraw
845-429-4354
unionrestaurant.net

 

GARNERVILLE

 

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Benni’s
81 N. Central Highway Garnerville
845-942-1222
benistrattoria.com

 

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Caesars Grill
120 west Rampo Road Garnerville
845-262-1022
caesarsgrillny.com

 

STONY POINT

 

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Blue Fig
32 South Liberty Drive Stony Point
845-786-7809

 

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Fireside
84 North Liberty Drive Stony Point
845-429-0484
firesidesteakpubny.com/index.htm

 

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Hanabi
77 A S Liberty Dr Stony Point, NY 10980
845 429-8507

 

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Mario’s Pasta Cucina
32 South Liberty Drive Stony Point
845-786-6060
mariospastacucina.com

 

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Lynch’s
79A S. Liberty Drive (Route 9W), Stony Point
845.553.9300
work.lynchsny.com

 

POMONA
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Mount Ivy Cafe
14 Thiells Mount Ivy Rd # 2 Pomona NY 10970
845 354 4746
www.mtivycafe.com

 

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Gilligans
366 Route 202, Pomona
845-354-1161
gilligansclambar.com

 

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Copper Still

357 Rte. 202, Pomona
845-290-6455
thecopperstillny.com

 

TOMPKINS COVE

Screen Shot 2015-12-15 at 6.18.18 AM
Sheeran’s Restaurant and Pub
337 North Liberty drive Tompkins Cove,
845-429-6190
Sheeransrestaurantandpub.com

 

SPARKILL

 

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D’Vine
4 Depot Square Sparkill
845-359-2141
grapedvine.com

 

Screen Shot 2015-12-15 at 6.19.45 AM
Roost Restaurant

623 Main Street Sparkill
845-359-6700
roostinsparkill.com

 

 

SUFFERN/SLOATSBURG/MONESY

 

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Ole Ole

100 Orange Ave, Suffern
845-368-3058
www.olesuffern.com

 

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Ole Tappas Bar

2 Lafayette Ave, Suffern
845-368-3058
olesuffern.com

 

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Marcello’s Ristorante
21 Lafayette Avenue, Suffern
845.357.9108
marcellosgroup.com

 

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Tequila Sal y limon
88 Orange Avenue Suffern
845-357-7707

 

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Hacienda Don Manuel
72 Lafayette Ave.
845-369-1633
haciendadm.com

 

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Craft House
150 Lafayette Avenue Suffern
845-547-2555
crafthouseny.com

 

Screen Shot 2015-12-11 at 9.15.09 AM
Da Nina
1 Lafayette Avenue Suffern
845-357-5988
daninas.com

 

SLOATSBURG

 

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Character’s Restaurant and Bar
94 Orange Turnpike. Sloatsburg
845-753-5200
charactersresturant.com

 

MONSEY

Screen Shot 2015-12-15 at 6.22.47 AM
Mandarin
106 Route 59 Monsey
845-426-3600
facebook.com/MandarinFusionSteakhouse/info?tab=overview

 

 

 

 

 

 

Holly Hand-Print Ornaments- 2015

Posted on December 15, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Christmas 2015, Crafts, Crafts and More Crafts .

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post.   All opinions expressed are my own.

We ALWAYS make an ornament.  We keep one and then give one to each of the grandparents.  I ALWAYS incorporate their hand, foot, or finger prints. Here is this years.

I had a lot to consider.  I always want it to be different.  Also, I have tried carefully to include skills that the kids need to work on for school into each of our “projects”.  (A) hates writing so we have been working at home on pencil grip and increasing his endurance.  One great way to do that is with clay.

Marvin brought a picture of what he wanted us to make, as well as the clay and ribbon for the project.

2015 Ornament 1

2015 ornament 2

I wanted to liven it up a bit so instead of just one color, (A) got plain green and (E) had a glitter green.

Sculpey Clay PhotoSculpey glitter

Note: the glitter was much harder to work with and I’m not sure I would purchase it again.  There is a Softening agent I learned after the fact which might have helped. 

First I let the kiddies play with the clay to soften it up.  Then we worked on rolling it out and tracing hands with a toothpick.

2015 Ornament 3

2015 Ornament 4

Once traced I cut the handprints out with a knife and placed them on the cookie sheet.  I poked a hole in (A)’s hand before baking so that we could get the ribbon through at the end.

2015 ornament 6

Sparkle and plain went on different sheets because one bakes longer than the other.

Once out and cooled we super glued the hands and berries in the design we wanted, looped through a ribbon and Viola!

Holly Handprint Ornaments!

2015 Ornament 7

Looking for more hand made ornaments?  See ours from years past (click the date to see)!

2014

The years prior, I didn’t post “How to’s” but are pretty self explanatory, if you have a question, please ask, I will explain.

Here are the pictures:

 2013Hand Made Ornament 2013

 2012

Hand Made ornament 2012

1 Comment .

Disney’s Tarzan on Stage at WPPAC!

Posted on December 14, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Christmas 2015, Contests, Day Trips, Out and about..., RNYM's Picks .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post.  All opinions expressed are my own.

When making your plans the next few weekends consider Disney’s Tarzan!!!  Professional Actors, in an amazing production at a fraction of the cost of Broadway!!!  We will be there on Saturday to give you a full review for Sunday!!!

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Starting at a young age my parents made it a point to get us theater tickets for every Christmas.  It became a tradition, one that I plan to continue with my kids.  Last year we went to see “The Grinch” and (A) did well.  I would love to be able to step it up, so this year another show that he knows in a more local venue!

For the first time in Westchester, Disney’s Tarzan “swings” onto the stage of White Plains Performing Arts Center. Based on Disney’s epic animated musical adventure and Edgar Rice Burrough’s Tarzan of the Apes, Tarzan features heart-pumping music by rock legend Phil Collins and a book by TONY Award-winning playwright, David Henry Hwang. High-flying excitement and hits like the Academy Award winning “You’ll Be in My Heart” as well as “Son of Man” & “Two Worlds” make Tarzan an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Great fun for the whole family, especially at the holidays!

Group packages, and Gift Certificates also available. Performances run December 18, 19, 26, 28, 29 January 2, 8, 9 at 7pm and December 19, 20, 26, 27, 30, January 2, 3, 9, 10 at 2pm.

Take advantage of our family four pack on Dec 18, 19, 26, 28 & 29 at 7pm. Get 2 adults and 2 child tickets for $135 dollars. That’s a 15% savings. Tickets range from $25-$47. For tickets and more information visit www.wppac.com or call (914) 328-1600. White Plains Performing Arts Center is located at 11 City Place on the 3rd floor of City Center in White Plains, NY.

**OH  YEAH, WE ALMOST FORGOT, WE HAVE 4 TICKETS TO GIVE AWAY!  LIKE, SHARE AND COMMENT TO ENTER, COMMENT HERE FOR ANOTHER CHANCE!! DRAWING WILL BE HELD 12/17 AND WINNER CHOOSES FROM Dec 18, 19, 26, 28 & 29 at 7pm***

36 Comments .

A Royal Christmas Spectacular- REVIEW!!

Posted on December 10, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Christmas 2015, Events, Out and about..., Party, Photography, Reviews .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Last year we went to the Glamour Girls Story time with Mrs. Claus (see review), so when I read about the Royal Christmas Spectacular, I KNEW this was going to be a fantastic event!  The flyer promised princesses, Captain Hook, Peter Pan, The Clauses, professional photos and more fun that you can shake a stick at!  Boy did they deliver.

Upon entering the Pearl River Elks Club we were escorted to our table by Belle.  My little (E) was immediately captivated.  Belle bent down to speak to her, and she took the cue to sit on the floor with her and have a chat.  The funny thing is, (E) never actually said anything, she just sat there holding her hands and staring.  It was MAGICAL.

Emme Belle Talk

A quick glance of the room showed a buffet full of delicious breakfast items, a photography station manned by Butterfly Kisses Photography with two different backdrops complete with adorable props, activity tables along the perimeter, a DJ (Total Djs) up on the stage, and tables for all of the royal attendees.

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Once everyone was in the room we were introduced to all the Characters by Mrs. Claus who was our MC for the evening.  All the kids were then invited to sit on the dance floor as a few of them sang us their signature songs.  Well, with a group of kids this could have gone either way… with this group, they were entranced.  The singing was quite good and the kids were really into it!!  They sat while Belle, Captain Hook, Ariel, and Peter Pan each took their turn singing.  Once they had all had their solos they got together and started singing “Santa Claus is Coming to Town”.  At the end while everyone in the room was singing, the big man himself made his appearance!!!

Glamour GIrls Compilation

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Royal Christmas Spectacular 039Santa took his time shaking hands and waving, stopping for photos and talking to each child.  He then went over and took photos with Butterfly Kisses Photography’s Photographer Jillian.  Throughout the event, people who had purchased the photo package were called to take photos with their favorite character.  (E) made sure to jump in with Ariel, and The Arandale Sisters (wink).

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(Photo Courtesy of Butterfly Kisses Photography)

There were stations assigned to the guest tables by time slot and Total DJs kept the atmosphere appropriate and fun throughout.  We made our way to the tattoo station, the ice cream sundaes, the games and stories, and the craft station.  Each activity was age appropriate and fun. A special shout out must go to Captain Hook who (A) paled around the whole time arguing that he was a bad guy as Hook proclaimed his renewed innocence. He loved it!

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The highlight of our time there had to be watching the faces of the kids as they interacted with the different characters.  They were all so precious.  My favorites (I am a little biased) was watching (A) pretend sword fight with Hook and (E) dancing with Belle (which I luckily captured on video-check out our YouTube Channel to see).

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A great time was had by all.  The kids were so happy that when we got home (A) decided that he wanted to write Santa a Thank You letter for sending us the tickets.  THIS IS HUGE!!! (A) strongly dislikes writing, its not “his favorite”.  The fact that he wanted to WRITE a letter thanking him was HUGE!!  This has solidified to me that this was a fantastic event.

Santa Thank you

Glamour Girls hosts special events like this frequently.  Like their Facebook Page to keep up to date or check our Parties Directory.  Not only do they host events, but they do party appearances for that special character in your life.  See their website www.glamourgirlspartyplanner.com for more details.

 

Christmas Lights and Family Time at Boscobel Sparkle- REVIEW!

Posted on December 9, 2015 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Christmas 2015, Day Trips, Events, Out and about..., Reviews, Uncategorized .

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post as Ashley was invited to attend this event with her family.  All opinions expressed are her own.

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I love Christmas lights. If I could leave mine up all year round without getting the side eye from my neighbors, I totally would. Growing up, every Christmas eve driving home from my Grandma and Grandpa’s house, my Dad would take the ‘long way home’ so we could see all the Christmas lights, we would drive for hours!

Disclaimer – I am not a photographer…please excuse the quality of the pictures. 

This past Friday night we bundled up and headed out to Boscobel for the opening night of Sparkle. Getting there was super easy, up the palisades and right over the Bear Mountain Bridge into Garrison.

As we drove up to the entrance the boys were squealing in delight seeing all the Christmas lights in the distance. Parking was fast and free. As you enter the gardens there us a tent your left, where you can purchase tickets if you need.  There are restrooms to the right of the ticket tent. There is also a cute gift shop full of books, children’s toys, home decor, jewelry and lots more.

Each night boasts different activities be sure to check the website before you go. http://www.boscobel.org/events-and-exhibitions/calendar-of-events/december/

As we made our way past the ticket booth, we met the Sparkle Queen Stilt Walker. Wow!
Absolutely stunning.  The kids were mesmerized.  Aside from how beautiful, all I could think was “How on earth does she walk on those stilts so gracefully?”

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We started our stroll down a path lined by trees decorated with white Christmas lights.

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Half way down the path was Santa’s Sparkle Garden. Inside the Garden house we met Santa and Mrs. Clause! The boys were speechless. Santa was really good! Perfect beard, and personality. Mrs. Claus was a delight as well. We weren’t rushed out, we we able to take our time. Plenty of time to have a chat with Santa and Mrs. Claus and take a few photos. You can take plenty of photos with your camera/phone, there is no photographer.
Except for on December 11, 12, 18 & 19th from 5:30-8:30pm
 you will get a free 4×6 Photos with Santa!
(While supplies last.)

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We continued down the path to the colored light ‘maze.’  The kids loved this spot!  The bushes were lined with brightly colored lights and glass jars. W and S walked up and down the paths at least 100 times, chasing each other and giggling each time they found one another in the dark.

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Around the path and behind the house there is a heated food tent with yummy options for purchase from Hudson Hil’s Café and Market. A few items included popcorn, brownies, chili, soup, hot chocolate and hot cider. See menu here http://www.boscobel.org/wpcontent/uploads/2015/11/menu.pdf. We decided to take a few minutes and warm up with some hot apple cider while listening to live acoustic holiday tunes.

After, we stopped into the Magic Show in the Gallery. The boys were interested, but I think it would be better suited for kids a little bit older. (W is 4 and S is just about 3).

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As we walked out of the Magic Show the boys could hear a saw, (They are currently obsessed with all things construction) so we had to go check it out. In front of the House we found the Ice Sculptor. I have never seen this in person before,  It was amazing to watch him work. Cutting meticulously to create such an intricate masterpiece.

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There was also a Ventriloquist Puppet Show that looked really fun, but the boys were exhausted by this time, so we decided to head home.

Sparkle is the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit and to enjoy being with family. Wander the beautiful grounds listing to Christmas music and gazing at the lights. A perfect winters night.

We will definitely be adding Boscobel Sparkle to our yearly Christmas traditions.

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Join BOSCOBEL for a series of brilliant evening events featuring thousands of lights, luminous displays and festive holiday happenings around the gardens and grounds of Boscobel. Walk the candlelit paths with a hot cup of cocoa and celebrate the season with family and friends.

There are an UNLIMITED amount of Grounds Only tickets, while most of the Guided House Tour tickets are sold out.

5–9 pm

Fridays, December 4, 11 & 18

Saturdays, December 5, 12 & 19

To Purchase Tickets CLICK HERE


Friday, December 11

  • Mr. & Mrs. Santa in the Sparkle Garden*
  • The Sparkle Queen Stilt Walker
  • Ice Carving Demonstration with Bill Bywater
  • Magical Entertainment with Margaret Steele
  • Acoustic Holiday Classics with Rick Soedler
  • NEW! Puppet Power with Ventriloquist Jonathan Geffner (first show at 6pm)


Saturday, December 12

  • Santa and his Elf Helper in the Sparkle Garden*
  • Magical Entertainment with Margaret Steele
  • Period Music with Thad MacGregor
  • NEW! Holiday Jazz with the Libby Richman Trio
  • Illuminated Hoop Dancing with the Sparkle Spinners
  • WHUD’s Morning Show cohost Kacey will be on site 6-8pm along with the WHUD Family Fun Crew and Hudson the Bear offering photo opportunities, prizes and raffles!


Friday, December 18

  • Mr. & Mrs. Santa in the Sparkle Garden*
  • The Sparkle Queen Stilt Walker
  • Ice Carving Demonstration with Bill Bywater
  • Caroling with The Taghkanic Chorale
  • Acoustic Holiday Classics with Rick Soedler
  • NEW! Puppet Power with Ventriloquist Jonathan Geffner (first show at 6pm)


Saturday, December 19

  • Santa and his Elf Helper in the Sparkle Garden*
  • Caroling with The Taghkanic Chorale
  • Period Music with Thad MacGregor
  • NEW! Holiday Jazz with the Libby Richman Trio
  • Illuminated Hoop Dancing with the Sparkle Spinners
5 Comments .

Royal Christmas Spectacular!

Posted on December 3, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Christmas 2015, Out and about... .

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post as we were invited to this event.  All opinions expressed are my own. 

If you are looking for something fun and a little different to do this weekend that ties in the holidays look no further.  Glamour Girls is putting on an event at the Pearl River Elks that meets just these requirements.  It’s close to home, it has the typical guests of honor, and adds just a little more.  Some Royal attendees.

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When we were invited to come see this event I was ecstatic.  We attended their Storytime with Mrs. Claus last year and had a great time!  It was exactly what we were looking for (read our full review).  This year they have kicked it up a notch with a larger location and more guests.

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The Royal Christmas Spectacular is set to happen this Sunday December 6, 2015 from 10-1 at the Pearl River Elks Club.  You can purchase tickets here: www.glamourpartyplanner.com

On the guest list to appear are Mr. & Mrs. Claus, Belle, Elsa, Ariel, Peter Pan, Captain Hook and MORE!  Included in your ticket price is a hot and cold breakfast buffet, live performances, Caroling, crafts, stories, games and an ice cream sundae celebration!!!

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I am having my elf “Marvin” bring the kids their tickets (which I made CLICK- Christmas Spectacular Tickets to download your own).  They will be so excited and surprised to dress up for a Royal Spectacular and have a great morning!!!

Tickets to Royal Spectacular Letter

To purchase tickets go to www.glamourpartyplanner.com we hope to see you there for a great time!!!

Meet “Marvin” #myelfisgood

Posted on December 2, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Christmas 2015, Crafts, Day Trips, Good Cause, Out and about..., Photo Obsessed, Reviews .

Disclosure:  This post is unsponsored (a few linked post were invitations).  All ideas expressed are my own. 

Pretty much everything I do centers around my Elf on the Shelf “Marvin.”  Although I think that the clever little jokes and situations that are so popular on Pinterest are cute, and I admire those with the creativity to come up with such ideas, I personally feel that it rewards and shows the kids that being mischievous or sneaky is ok.  My reasoning?  1.  It counteracts what I think the season is about which is giving, helping others, and family. 2.  It gives my kids permission to make messes or play tricks, sends the message that these things are cute, acceptable.  In my house it is not.

Instead, “Marvin” is truly Santa’s Helper.  He brings messages from the big man himself.  Each message reminds the kids to be KIND, SHARE, SPEND QUALITY TIME WITH FAMILY.  Some messages are reminders, some come with tasks, others with gifts or “secret missions” to complete (they LOVE these).  Every year these messages come on a different letterhead (which I download from the internet).  I found this year’s free download here: http://yourgoldenticketblog.com/2013/12/santa-claus-stationary-free-printable/ 

Anything that I create and post here, please feel free to use.  The purpose of this page is to help you out not to make your life more difficult.  In fact, some people have loved what they saw me doing and asked for an email to detail it for them.

*each bullet that is purple links to a post about that item or links to where it can be purchased quickly and easily.  Events or reviews will become purple as the year progresses and I link the new posting to this main page.

Elf on the Shelf

Events:

For a full listing of Holiday Events please visit our Holiday Post.  Below is a selection of events (past and present) that we have or will be visiting with links to our reviews.

  • Cut your Own Tree!!! – This link is a list of great places you can go and cut your own tree.  Many places have special attractions and activities as well!  We just did our Holiday Photos with Kennedy Grace Photography at Emmerich Tree Farm in Warwick – Super Cute.  We also have plans this season to visit Battenfield for their Sleigh rides and more! #RocklandNYMomTreeTime2015
  • Holiday Photos! This year we were lucky enough to have photos done with Kennedy Grace this year!!!  Stay tuned there are more awesome sessions coming!!!
  • The Royal Christmas Spectacular on December 6, 2015 features Captain Hook, Peter Pan, Elsa, Anna, Belle, Ariel, Mrs. Claus and Santa! Don’t miss this amazing event! $30 per adult, $35 per child. Family of four discounted package available! www.glamourpartyplanner.com/store for ticket information!

Royal Christmas Spectacular

Books
  • The Polar Express
  • The Night Before Christmas
  • The Gingerbread Man
  • The Christmas Story
  • The Legend of the Christmas Stocking
  • J is for Jesus: The Sweetest Story Ever Told
  • Twelve Days of Christmas
  • The Miracle of the First Poinsettia
  • The Greatest Gift
  • Babushka

Movies

  • Charlie Brown
  • Polar Express
  • The Grinch
  • Frosty the Snowman
  • Classic Christmas Set

Give Backs (Missions from Santa)

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  • Santa Sac
  • Toys for Tots
  • “Adopting a Child”
  • Shopping with St. Jude
  • Letter to Santa (mailed at Macys)

Activities (Crafts etc.)

  • Make our Ornament– AC Moore and Michaels
  • Color an ornament- Local Grocery Store
  • Paint a Santa Train- Christmas Tree Shops
  • Make Cookies
  • Make a Gingerbread House – We got ours at Bed Bath and Beyond this year (used our 20% off).  Click the link to see what they have to offer.

Past Trips

  • Storytime with Mrs. Claus
  • The Metro Museum Train Show
  • Pictures with Santa CLAWS – Read Last Year’s Post and watch for this years updated version!
  • Polar Express Train Ride
  • The Dreamworks North Pole Adventure (Ridge Hill Mall)
  • Holiday Train Show NYBG
  • Santa Paws
  • Santa Trolley
  • Santa Train

Gifts

  • Pajamas
  • Advent Calendar
  • Ornament Made From Christmas Card on Shutterfly – I simply scan and upload our yearly Christmas card and put it on this adorable pewter ornament.
  • Felt Wall Tree

Yearly Ornament

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