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Category Archives: Out and about…

Moe’s Southwest Grill

Posted on June 2, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Food, Out and about..., Reviews .

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post as Jamie and her family were invited for dinner.  All opinions expressed are those of Jamie our writer.

When T and I first decided to start a family, it certainly never occurred to us that daily dinner would be the thing that stressed us out to no end.  I don’t even think we discussed how we would keep these kids alive with food.  We just assumed it would all fall into place. Well fast forward half a decade and we have 2 working parents (T runs a business and works 7 days a week), a 4 year old in ballet and gymnastics, and a 3 year old in gymnastics and soccer.  Not to mention birthday parties, playdates, school activities, etc.  This is exactly what we want to be doing at this stage in life but somehow cooking a healthy dinner 7 nights a week doesn’t quite make the cut.  This is why we were so exited when Moe’s Southwest Grill opened up right in Nanuet.

Not only can Moe’s be used as a quick dine-in or take-out experience, but the food is delicious and a large majority of the menu options are fresh and healthy.   It’s very clear when entering Moe’s that it’s a family friendly place, from the kids meal menus, to the fun and upbeat music playing, to the fact that every time the door opens the entire staff does a “Welcome to Moe’s” chant.  It made us feel very welcome and we knew no matter what kind of a mess 3 year old (S) made, it would be acceptable.  I should also point out that I was still in my gym clothes and no one batted an eye.  We ordered our food in a fast moving line and the kids got to watch how the staff made burritos and quesadillas and choose a cookie to go with their meals.

(T) immediately headed for a table near one of the large TVs so that he could watch the baseball game. (R) and (S) immediately went running over to what they now call the “magic drink machine.”  Even I was mesmerized by the drink machine.  It is a computerized machine of fun that allows customers to choose from about 50 drinks and even mix and match to create whatever kind of party in a cup one desires (alcohol free).  (R) and (S) would have stood at that machine all night if we let them so I made a mental note that on a rainy day, Moe’s would be a good place to keep them entertained for an hour.

Rachel Soda Machine

Eventually we left the magic machine and made our way back to our table full of incredible food.  Normally this is where the not-so-fun game of getting (R) to eat begins.  (S) will eat anything that isn’t nailed to the ground.  I can count on one hand the things (R) will eat (soooo picky). I was THRILLED to see her bite right into the kid sized chicken quesadilla then dip it into fresh guacamole. (T) and I just looked at each other, too afraid to speak for fear it would end the moment.  I’m sure plenty of you can relate to that!

scott guacamole

This prompted us to ask the manager if Moe’s could cater our annual backyard picnic and it turns out they have an entire catering program.  Moe’s is available for any event, large or small, to cater fresh and healthy food.  With graduation and communion season upon us, Moe’s is an option that definitely should be considered.

The food was incredible and the queso was some of the best we had ever tasted.  Always one for the bargain, T was excited to learn that the bottomless chips and salsa came free with the meal, whether it’s or dine-in or take-out.  On our way out the door, the staff asked if we needed any help carrying left overs to the car and told me they would be happy to bring out the food curbside anytime I wanted to grab dinner on the way home from our busy lives.  The experience was fun, but by far the best part was walking out the door with little S singing “I love Rock and Roll” from the restaurants music!

Eat at Moes

Moes Deals

Sundays – Kids eat free with the purchase of adult meal and beverage

Moe Mondays – All Burritos are $5.99

Taco Tuesdays – Beginning in June tacos will be buy one get one free

RNYM Discount code for 10% off of your meal all summer!

1 Comment .

Global Family Reunion- June 6

Posted on May 28, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Events, Good Cause, Out and about... .

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

Global family Reunion flyer

This special event of epic proportions combines so many fun things to do and see.  There will be games, there will be speakers, celebrities, a chance to break a world record and much, much, more!  This fun filled day has another bright spot, the proceeds go towards Alzheimer’s Research. 

HERES THE SKINNY…

What:  Presentations by entertainers, authors and scientists! Music! Food! Exhibits! Comedy! Games for kids!

When: June 6, 2015, from 11:00AM to 8:30PM.

Who’s Invited: You! All seven billion members of the human family. Those with a proven connection to the world’s biggest family tree (currently at 77 million people) get a bracelet and take part of the largest family photo in history.

Harry Potter Family Tree

Presentations: The GFR will feature talks and presentations by a wide range of fascinating experts and entertainers. Among those who have already agreed to participate: Filmmaker Morgan Spurlock, President George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush (via video), Comedy Central star Nick Kroll, NPR host Ophira Eisenberg and former Obama administration member Cass Sunstein. Many more speakers will be announced soon.

Activities: The Global Family Reunion will have dozens of activities for all ages, including: A scavenger hunt from Watson Adventures. The world’s largest family photo. A talent contest. Exhibitions about family history and genealogy. Historical impersonators. Not to mention the 450 interactive exhibits at the New York Hall of Science, the museum where the reunion will take place. ( I am not quite sure how we will get through it all!!!)

Reunion mini golf

Documentary: The Global Family Reunion will be the subject of a documentary by Morgan Spurlock.

The Cause: Fighting Alzheimer’s. The Global Family Reunion has partnered with two remarkable organizations devoted to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease. Namely, the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund and the Alzheimer’s Association New York Chapter. Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease that affects more than 40 million members of the Human Family, a number that will climb exponentially unless we find a cure. In addition, to buying tickets, you can also support the cause by participating in the Surname Showdown to Fight Alzheimer’s (just click here) – a family friendly competition to see which family can raise the most money to battle this killing disease. 

The Price: All proceeds will go to battling Alzheimer’s research, education and training. To buy Tickets CLICK HERE and be sure to enter code RNYMOM for a special discount.

The Locations: The 2015 Global Family Reunion will be held on the site of the legendary 1964 New York World’s Fair. The grounds are now home to the New York Hall of Science, which is one of the top science-themed museums in the world. The museum holds 5,000 people, with a gorgeous, sprawling 11-acre outdoor space that can hold more than 10,000 more. The museum’s 450 hands-on interactive exhibits will be open to GFR attendees, including a space-themed mini-golf course, a design lab where you can create movies and 3-D print objects, and a collection of rockets.

The Founder: The founder of the Global Family Reunion is bestselling author A.J. Jacobs, whose books include The Year of Living Biblically, The Know-It-All and Drop Dead Healthy. Jacobs is an NPR commentator and the editor at large at Esquire. He is a speaker with two TED talks that have reached over a million views. He is the father of three, the husband of one, and the cousin to millions.

All proceeds will go to battling Alzheimer’s research, education and training. To buy Tickets CLICK HERE and be sure to enter code RNYMOM for a special discount.

Stay tuned for our photos and full review!  Hope to see you there!!

Mountain Creek Smoke and Blues Festival May 24th

Posted on May 15, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Out and about..., Travel .

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post as I have been invited to the event.  All opinions expressed are my own.

RocklandNYDad (RNYD, my poor husband) and I are huge fans of music.  Live, recorded, and every genre (we were even in a band together once upon a time).  We are always attending concerts and events.  You may have noticed if you check out the Events Calendar we have added lots of live music for the summer etc.  We will continue to update it with more as we find it.  One event that we came across was the Mountain Creek Smoke and Blues Festival.  This festival is full of food and music, two favorite pastimes of ours.  When I saw it I knew we had to attend. 

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Details are as follows:

Click here for the official website

Date: Sunday May 24th (Rain Date: Monday May 25th)

Time: 12-8pm

Location:

Mountain Creek- Red Tail Lodge
200 Route 94 ( Vernon McAfee Rd in your GPS)
Vernon, NJ 07462

Tickets:

$25 if purchased by May 23rd
$35 May 24th (Children 12 & Under FREE)
$30 VIP Parking Available in Red Tail Lodge Lot

 Purchase Tickets HERE

Schedule of Bands:

1:00PM – 1:55PM The Chuck Lambert Band
2:15PM – 3:10PM The Voodudes
3:30PM – 4:10PM Ali Ryerson
4:30PM – 5:10PM Big Fun-K
5:30PM – 6:30PM Billy Hector
6:50PM – 7:50PM Bob Lanza

Other Helpful Information

  • This event is a general admission outdoor show
  • Guests are welcome to bring their own blankets and chairs – no beach umbrellas please
  • The Red Tail Lodge and Biergarten Grill & Patio will be open to guests for shade, facilities and additional seating
  • Only ticketed guests will be allowed in and around the resort base area during the event
  • Your ticket will grant you access in and out of the festival area during the event
  • Coolers, glass bottles and outside food are not permitted on the festival grounds.  The festival will provide an assortment of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, as well as a variety of unique food options
  • Handicap parking and facilities available
  • Dogs will not be allowed inside the concert viewing area
  • Ticket prices do not include Food & Beverage.  Food & drink will be available for additional purchase
  • All ticket sales are final and non-refundable
  • Free on-site parking available across the street from the venue in the Mountain Creek Cobblestone Lots
  • Mountain Creek reserves the right to change pricing or event details at their discretion

Our whole family will be attending for a day of fun, sun, food and music.  Our full review will be posted upon our return.  Hope to see you there!

Mountain Creek has a slew of great events coming up, including the season opening of their water park!!  For more information Click Here!

1 Comment .

National Public Gardens Day!

Posted on May 5, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Out and about..., Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post.

Finally the beautiful weather is here!!!  What better activity for this weekend than a stroll through a vibrant public garden?! A perfect Mother’s Day activity!  Friday is National Public Gardens Day!!!  Many public gardens have free admission for you to get out and enjoy!

Aidan Emma Belly

Most have free admission attached to participation and others have awesome events to take advantage of.  To get the coupons (must have to get in for free) or to search for a participating garden near you (for our non-Rockland readers who we love) CLICK HERE!

Our local participants-

Greenwood Gardens
274 Old Short Hills Road
Short Hills, NJ 07078

http://www.greenwoodgardens.org

Greenwood Gardens is a 28 acre historic garden open to the public Saturday-Tuesday, April 19 through November 1, 2015.  

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Macculloch Hall Historical Museum
45 Macculloch Avenue
Morristown, NJ

http://www.maccullochhall.org

Free Program – 2 – 5pm for National Public Gardens Day – Friday, May 8

On Friday, May 8th Macculloch Hall Historical Museum (MHHM) will be participating in National Public Gardens Day.  First celebrated in 2010 National Public Gardens Day was established by the nonprofit American Public Gardens Association (AGPA) and the Rain Bird Corporation, to promote environmental stewardship, plant and water conservation, green spaces, and environmental education in communities throughout the United States. 

Special family activities are planned in the garden from 2 to 5 pm.  Families can work together on a “Find the Flower” scavenger hunt through the garden and investigate seeds in all their forms through hands-on activities.    The Museum will also have a vermicomposting bin available to show families how they can compost household vegetable waste at home and help the environment at the same time by using earthworms.  For a more intensive study of plant life, families can borrow a “Garden Study Kit” from the Museum’s classroom and follow the activities to explore the garden further.  The kit will include copies from Mr. Macculloch’s 1830s planting records and pages from the Farmers’ Almanac, which was first published in Morristown, New Jersey in 1818. This well-known Almanac was published in New Jersey until 1955 when its headquarters moved to Maine. The Old Farmer’s Almanac, another well-known publication, began in 1792 in Boston.  Activities conclude with a presentation by Tomaro Honey from 4 to 5 pm.  This presentation shows the tools and equipment for beekeeping, discusses why honeybees are important, and how honeybees live and communicate in their hive.  Families will have the opportunity to watch the social community of honeybees at a fully functioning observation hive.  The National Public Garden Day program is free, but families must pre-register. Please call (973) 538-2404 ext. 16 or email cwinslow@maccullochhall.org.

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New York Botanical Garden
2900 Southern Boulevard
Bronx, NY

http://www.nybg.org

As America’s premier garden, The New York Botanical Garden has epitomized the iconic landscape of the northeast since its founding in 1891, serving not only as a cultivated escape in this busy metropolis, but a celebrated state historical site and National Landmark. Featuring world-renowned exhibitions, year-round arts and culture programs, rich educational programming for children and adults, and family-friendly activities for all ages, it is the city’s greatest living museum—an urban oasis unlike any other.

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Reeves-Reed Arboretum
165 Hobart Avenue
Summit, NJ

http://www.reeves-reedarboretum.org/

Celebrate National Public Gardens Day with a FREE tour of historic Reeves-Reed Arboretum!

Join Director of Horticulture Marc Montefusco and Lead Horticulturist Julieanne Frascinella on a walk through the grounds in their peak of springtime splendor, as they introduce you to some of their favorite plants and bits of Arboretum history.  National Public Gardens Day is a day of celebration to raise awareness of America’s public gardens and their important role in promoting environmental stewardship, species and water conservation, and education in communities nationwide.

When you are finished with your tour, come back to Wisner House to see “Leaf-Stone-Water”, an exhibition of original watercolor landscapes.

Registration is encouraged but not required at https://www.reeves-reedarboretum.org/workshops

Garden Tours will depart from Wisner House on Friday, May 8 at 10:30am and/or 1:30pm

Most have free admission attached to participation and others have awesome events to take advantage of.  To get the coupons (must have to get in for free) or to search for a participating garden near you (for our non-Rockland readers who we love) CLICK HERE!

Free Comic Book Day!

Posted on May 1, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Out and about... .

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post.

Here at RNYM we love free, we love super heroes, and we really love literacy (who doesn’t).  It’s always a pleasure when you can combine you interests.  Well, here’s your chance!  Another Blogger friend let it slip that free comic book day is coming up and two local establishments are participating!!!  What’s even better?? The next Marvel Avengers Movie  “Age of Ultron” came out in theaters this week (we are going tonight)!

Kids ComicsIMG_6013

FUNNY BUSINESS
130 Main Street
 Nyack, NY, 10960
(845) 348-4747
Funny Business will have cookies, balloons and more available! 
COMIX WAREHOUSE
52 South Main Street
Pearl River, NY, 10965
(845) 732-8401
Will be open normal business hours from 12-5.

For more information or to search for a location near you (for our readers in Westchester, Orange, Bergen, and Dutchess who we adore) Click Here.

Mother’s Day Brunch 2015

Posted on April 30, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Out and about..., RNYM's Picks .

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post.  These opportunities for celebrating Mommies just sounded good to us! Have one to add? Comment on our post! 

AquaTerra Grille
Pearl River
845- 920-1340

  • Special Buffet Brunch 10-1:45
  • Includes unlimited momosas, juice, coffee and soda

Restaurant x & Bully Boy Bar
Congers
845-268-6555

  • 3 Course Meal Prix Fix from 1-7 * does not include Beverage, tax and gratuity.

Marcello’s Restorante
Suffern
845- 357-9108

  • Regular a la carte menu served 3-8:30 pm

Hudson Water Club
Haverstraw Marina
(845) 271-4046

  • Brunch Buffet 11:30 and 1:30 seatings- decadent items from French toast to blintzes, made to order omlets, fresh catch of the day, chef carving station, fresh salads, fruits and pastries plus never ending desert!

Pearl River Saloon
Pearl River
(845) 735-5300

  • Mother’s Day Brunch starts at 11 am

Pasta Cucina
Stony Point and Suffern
(845) 369-1313

  • Mothers Day Brunch 12-3 pm
  • Bagels, Muffins, eggs, French toast, cavatelli, eggplant rollatini, stuffed mushrooms, and more.
  • Unlimited Mimosas

Platzl Brauhaus
Pomona
(845) 354-2111

  • Mother’s Day Brunch 11-3
  • Omelet Station, Pancakes, Eggs Benedict, Belgian Waffles, Roast Beef, Turkey and Roast Loin of Pork Carving Station, Chicken Cacciatore, Coffee, Tea, Ice Cream Sundae Bar, and Mimosa & Bloody Mary Fountains.  Live music a rose for Mom and a jumping castle for the kids.

 

Our “Super” Experience

Posted on April 23, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Events, Out and about..., Reviews, Services .

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

I am always looking for fun experiences to bring the kids to.  It becomes difficult from time to time to find something that will interest both my daughter AND my son.  Princess balls, tea parties etc. are all awesome and fun for me and (E) but are not that interesting for (A).  This past weekend Manda’s Enchanted Events along with Powerhouse Dance Center, hit the nail on the head.  Both kiddies (and mommy) had a “super” time.

We are an action film family.  We LOVE superheroes.  (E)’s new bitty baby that she received for Christmas is named Natasha Romanov.  Most people don’t even know who that is.  So, needless to say when they announced there was a “Superhero Luncheon” we HAD to be there.Superhero Lunchaon

They did not disappoint.  We got to hang with Iron Man, Spiderman, and the Black Widow herself.  Having Natasha there in and of itself speaks to how detail oriented the planners were.  She (along with other female characters) are often overlooked at these types of events.  I am so glad she wasn’t because in our house, we really love the role model of a tough, self-sufficient woman.

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The scene was set right away.  The heroes were really interactive, and really great at portraying their characters.  They even had a game plan for what to say when asked where the rest of their friends were.  Natasha (the Black Widow) led the charge by explaining the activities and making introductions, as she would in any of the movies.  Spidey crawled all over the place and was super friendly (very like his real character).   The kids really felt like a part of the training team.

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The activities were age appropriate (for various ages, there were kids from 21 months up to 7), and fun.  The whole time the heroes engaged the kids.  There was ample opportunity for them to run around and play as well as have photos taken.

(A) really enjoyed the training (especially arm wrestling them and strength training). 

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(E) loved hula hooping and DANCING!  She was a Dancing fool!!

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The food was good and plentiful with a child’s interests having been taken into account.  The Activities as well as the eating and photo opportunities were organized well.  We did not have to wait on line for either food or our photos with the gang.  All those involved were super accommodating and happy to be there.  The parents and kids in attendance were all lovely.  Everyone was so happy to see the kids having so much fun.  There wasn’t “down time” when the kids would get bored or start to act a little nutty either, it was scheduled really well.  I have been to events where you could tell the kids had had enough, this wasn’t one of them.  They were interested in the whole experience.

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After photos each “Superhero in Training” was given a certificate and cupcakes were served.  The kids then had another opportunity to dance and hang out with the superheroes.  My kids had a fantastic time.  It was such a personal experience, they smiled all day long.  (A) couldn’t stop talking about how he beat Iron Man at arm wrestling and he met a lovely little girl who was dressed like the Black Widow that he spent nearly every second there with.

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If you get a chance to attend a superhero luncheon with these guys again, jump on it.  It was not your typical event.  They kept it small enough that it wasn’t overcrowded and it felt very nice.  The kids had a great time and so did I.

Superheroes

Want to see more?  Here’s a video Manda’s Enchanted Events put together for us!

http://youtu.be/1hU2vNYW3q4

Manda’s Enchanted Events not only plans and runs events like the “Superhero Luncheon” and “Princess Balls” she also has a slew of characters available to come to special events or parties.  For more information about Manda’s Enchanted Events you can follow them on Facebook at: Facebook.com/mandasenchantedevents and on their website at: mandasenchantedevents.com For more information or to book an appearance you can email: manda@mandasenchantedevents.com or call: 845-494-0409.

The Cruise Bug

Posted on April 9, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Out and about..., Travel .

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post.  All opinions expressed are those of Scott Walters Travel Agent.

The bug bit me on a two night cruise to nowhere with my wife on a ship that no longer exists.  After that initial morsel, I have grown in my love for cruising as a vacation option and so have my children. Cruising is a great family vacation that offers something for everyone.

cruise ship

While every ship has a different ‘vibe’, I know that my favorite activities on board revolve around three things; eating, entertainment and family fun.  Having these things makes me a happy sailor, and makes my family happy as well.

We like eating in the dining room for dinner.  It can become as much an event as it is a time to tell stories about our day.  Food quality and choices on cruise ships varies, but you will never go hungry as there are plenty of choices.  Food allergies are attended to with great care, so just let your dining staff know in advance.  The buffet lets the kids pick out their favorites while my wife and I can enjoy ours, too.  On port days we eat before heading off on our shore excursions.  This way we get a good meal and don’t have to stop for food during our short stop.  This also saves a great deal of money.  Room service is also available 24/7, in case you should come back hungry. PLUS, when my wife needs her potato chip fix, one call does it all!

Scotts Kiddies at a Character Breakfast.

Cat in the Hat Character Breakfast

My family loves going to shows on the ship after dinner.  The Disney Cruise Line is our favorite, and the shows are a big part of what we like about them.  Each cruise is Disney themed with characters, which are often exclusive to the ship, and our children talk about them for weeks after we are home.  I also love karaoke, and ships have some going on at least once a day.  My wife prefers the piano bar, and we have seen ventriloquists, hypnotists (I always volunteer), jugglers and many other entertainers brought on board.  Most all shows are family oriented unless otherwise specified.

Kids Activities Cruise

My kids get bored hanging with me and my wife all the time, so they look forward to going to the kids club on the ship.  We look forward to them going, too!!!  On the Disney ships, the space that a casino would take up has been made into the Oceanear’s club.  My kids love the theming and activities that they do from sing a longs to crafts, games, computer projects and of course eating.  They are fed lunch and dinner so we grown-ups can enjoy the adult only areas of the ship.

mickey ears kids

We also like the big screen movies, pirate night, meeting characters and going to the private island Castaway Cay.  With so many things to do, we never get to them all, even though we have been on many cruises now.  Every night a schedule of the next day’s activities gets placed in your stateroom cabin, and yes for the super tech savvy, there are apps for your devices as well.

We love cruising because of the value it brings.  Moneywise it is hard to beat the price when compared to going to all the ports of call, we only unpack and pack once, the children are always in safe, monitored environments, and everyone can find their ‘thing’ and do it to their heart’s content. That is the essence of cruising.

Whether you are a newbie or seasoned cruiser, contact me by phone (845-558-1225), email (scott@goawayoftentravel.com) or on Facebook at Scott at Go Away Often Travel to find out about all the possibilities for your family to set sail on the high seas.

Greenburgh Nature Center Easter Egg Hunt

Posted on April 4, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Day Trips, Out and about..., Reviews .

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

I’ve always loved seeing the events that are presented by the Greenburgh Nature Center.  That’s the reason that they are always added to our Events Calendar and our Day Trips Page.  Although I had never been, I added them based on the recommendation of my sister-in- law whos opinion I highly respect.  I reached out to them, and they have been sending me updates on their amazing programs.  I love that they are well organized and outdoors, which the kids and I can never get enough of.  Well, we decided it was high time that we go for a visit, and their Easter Egg Hunt was the perfect opportunity.

Ready for the trip!

ready to go

The event was slated for 11-3 on a Saturday which was a great time of day.  I was at first a little nervous about the kids and the trip across the bridge, but we were there in no time (30 minutes tops).  It’s really pretty easy to navigate, and there was a nice man directing traffic when we got there.  When we parked, I realized that I had forgotten to put my jogger in the trunk for (E). Having the stroller on the trails would not have worked, and I was happy to let her walk anyway.  If you have young children I would recommend wearing them.  It was still a little chilly, but a beautiful bright sunny day and we were so thankful to be outside!

Thought this was hilarious, Easter Eggs in the snow along the way!

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(E) sitting on the job!

Emmie Sitting on the jb

(A) searches for some well hidden eggs.

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We got there right at 11 am just in time for the first wave of Egg Hunters.  I loved the way that they ran this part.  They asked that no one take more than 10 eggs, and that all participants who had at least 1 egg at the end would reap the full benefits.  This was a great learning opportunity for (A) as we kept counting and then putting back eggs if we were over the limit.  The eggs were empty (which meant less garbage laying around).  Volunteers stood around the path to place more eggs if their section became sparse, and to keep adventurers safe (making sure we didn’t slip on the remaining ice).  I love that the hunt was in the woods where there was more opportunity to hide them, and to walk and climb.  We had a blast in there.

(A) runs and climbs in his search for eggs.

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When you exited you turned your eggs in (they get reused for the next groups to go through), and received a few pieces of chocolate.  I loved this idea too, my kids didn’t leave with 3 lbs of chocolate they didn’t need.  Just a few pieces which makes it a treat.

Ready to turn in our eggs!!

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The egg exchange.

March RNY 032Yummy chocolate!

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After the egg hunt we went inside for the crafts.  There was a bunny hat station, a tissue paper flower station, and a paint your own reusable bag (for a small donation) station.  These can become quite crowded because they were inside so my recommendation would be to do these either early or late.  As with  most of these events the majority of the visitors showed up around noon and left by 1:30.  If you go off peak, you can really reap the benefits of doing everything in a less crowded atmosphere.  (A) enjoyed himself greatly and the volunteers working these stations were also patient and kind.

(A) makes a tissue paper Daffodil.

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When you left the buildings there was even more fun waiting.  There were vendors, food, and great open spaces to explore.  (A) noticed that there were turkeys out and about.  Unfortunately, we didn’t make it down to the turkeys, because (E) needed a nap.  There was so much fun and excitement.  You could stay the whole day and be busy as a bee the entire time.

A quick shot of some of the outdoor festivities!

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Conclusions:  Greenburgh Nature Center puts on a great event.  It’s organized, well planned, and well known so it gets busy.  The volunteers are all lovely.  I would highly recommend going to any of their events or classes and having a good time.

Helpful Hints:

  • Go off peak to miss the midday crowds.
  • Wear your baby, a stroller doesn’t work on the trails and are difficult to navigate in crowds.
  • Plan to spend a good amount of time as there were lots of fun activities and things to do.
1 Comment .

Kickin’ It!

Posted on March 16, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Out and about..., Reviews .

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post as I was invited to a class at Fitness Kickboxing.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Kickboxing…. It’s not something I ever saw myself doing.  Working out yes, kickboxing no.  It just never registered with me as something I might want to try.  So, naturally when Fitness Kickboxing invited me to try out a trial session (actually 3 sessions, I’ll explain later) I was intrigued, and nervous.  As a soccer player I am admittedly spastic with my hands and arms in general and I was afraid that 1. I was too out of shape and 2. I would look really stupid.

Saved by one of RNYM’s newest employees.  Ashley has been attending Kickboxing since October, and she has lost 21 lbs working with Amir.  This didn’t get me off the hook mind you, I still had to do the class (Amir wanted me to know about it first hand).  That’s ok, admittedly I NEED to work out.  But I took pictures of her doing it because she is experienced, and well, I rarely let anyone else touch my camera.

Meet Amir.

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I can say with confidence that I am super glad that she got me to come.  I haven’t felt this strong and aware of my body in a long time.  I am actually going back this Wednesday for my second of 3 sessions.  One of the things that I was really nervous about was looking stupid in a class full of people who had been doing this a long time.  What is nice is that Amir and the attendees have created an atmosphere of support and family.  There was no competition to be the best, everyone was friendly and helpful.  When I asked if I could take photos, they all said no problem, I took that as a good sign, and they weren’t worried about having their pictures taken all sweaty.  My kind of people.

A photo of the class as they work on some strengthening.

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Training felt a little like college preseason.  Muscles burning, I may have wanted to throw up once or twice, but it was different.  Instead of my coach yelling at me to move it or push harder, Amir walked around and encouraged us in a positive manner and even offered modifications for those of us who were terribly out of shape and had difficulty with some of the positions.  Class was fast paced, and there was always something to do.  Amir was targeting (at the classes request) bums and abs.  When we weren’t on the bag or gloves, we had exercises to do.  It was a lot like circuit training, you work all the necessary parts but in different ways.  I like that, no time to get bored.

Ashley at the bag.

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Water breaks were readily available, and as we worked Amir walked around encouraging us and correcting our form.  The encouragement became really important toward the end (I never knew that punching or kicking for 30 second intervals could be so exhausting).  At the end of class everyone high fives to say well done (it sounds so cheesy written down, but it was awesome and relevant).  It totally reminded me of the way my collegiate teammates cheered one another on, a real family.

Amir gives Ashley a hand while I take some photos.

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It wasn’t until class was over that I found event more really great information about Amir and his program.  This is when I was informed that the trial is actually 3 sessions.  What does he charge for this intro? $20, not $20 per session, $20 for all 3.  The reasoning behind this is that although I feel good after 1 class, apparently you feel soooo much more amazing after 3 (I will keep you updated).  This is when I got really nervous, (A) had been upset that I had to leave in the evening and I told Amir so.  So he invited him to class.  Yeah that’s how family oriented he is.  Moms and Dads are encouraged to bring their kids to observe, and read or color on the side.  He feels it is important for them to observe their parents taking care of themselves, and he is right.  In fact, both Ashley and I will be bringing our kids tonight.

Amir’s services don’t stop there, he isn’t just there to train you and send you home.  His philosophy is that you have to train the whole person.  You need to work on positive thinking, and change the way you eat, exercise alone won’t make the body changes most people are looking for.  This makes me excited, because a good workout always makes me want to eat better, I start feeling good.  Amir does it all, he helps with nutrition plans, offers eating advice, measures and takes pictures of you to help you along the way.  In fact, he is so full service that you can send him pictures of what you are eating for him to comment on.  He utilizes his social media accounts (twitter, Instagram, and FB) to promote healthy living and encourage you on your way.  Last week he had to cancel a class for snow, and posted Homework for those who wanted to get a good workout in anyway.

Ashley and I take a moment to pose together after class. 

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I stayed behind and spoke with Amir for an hour but it could have been much longer (I had promised (A) that I would be home to tuck him in so I was already in trouble).  I love what he was saying.  Positivity from all around.  Eat well, live well, train well.  Teach your children to do the same.  Come work together as a family.  All right on, all exactly what I personally need.  I am looking forward to tonight and my next session.

If you have been on the fence about starting an exercise program I highly recommend Fitness Kickboxing.  It’s difficult to really explain how I feel, but it is way different than I used to feel when I went to the gym on my own to work out.  I feel like I have purpose.  I have teammates.    I’m looking forward to my return as opposed to dreading going and doing the same old thing.  I am excited to see what we will do today, and if my stamina has increased.  OH speaking of which, for those of you who love those crazy running races, he has a Spartan class too.

Amir’s Newest Special!

March Challenge FItness Kickboxing

How do you get started??  Just come down to a class (click here for full schedule) and sign up for a 3 class trial.  Even if you only stayed for the 3 classes $20 is a heck of a deal, but I think you will end up sticking around for more.

1 Comment .
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