Out and about… – Page 19

MY Gym Yorktown Heights

Posted on July 23, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes for Kids, Out and about..., Reviews .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are the opinions of one of our mommy reviewers Jamie.

Parents in Westchester and Putnam Counties have a facility absolutely worth a visit. (S) (my two year old hurricane) and I (Jamie) had a wonderful morning at My Gym, Yorktown Heights. We were invited to attend a class and explore the very clean environment that is this establishment. For those in Westchester and Putnam counties, this is definitely a place worth a visit; they gave (S) a really fun morning while teaching him listening, exercise, and music skills all at the same time.

We arrived a little early and I was very pleased to see the staff going from station to station, toy to toy, sterilizing everything. (S) could not get his shoes off fast enough and was giddy with excitement as they opened the gate and turned him loose into paradise. They have all types of equipment for the children to explore like a ball bit, climbing wall, slide center, high bars, balance beams, etc. As I looked around, I couldn’t help but notice how the facility would be appropriate for children both older and younger than my own, which prompted me to start looking over their class offerings. This place is not just for little kids. There are all types of sports activities and drop off classes being offered for older kids, sibling classes appropriate for a range of ages, and beginner classes for babies just starting to explore their physical potential.

One of my favorite parts about visiting My Gym Yorktown Heights was watching all the children come running in with a smile. Every one of them couldn’t wait to get in and they all knew who their “teacher” was. As each child arrives, the staff is quick to come help get their shoes and socks off and walk them onto the floor. This was especially helpful to those parents who had more than one child with them. The children are given about 7 minutes of “open gym” to explore before the class begins. This exploration time is very important as the gym changes their layout and event set up every week. Each time the children arrive at class, they are having a new experience.

(S) jumps into the pit of balls during open gym.

The structured class starts off with a circle time and all the children and parents come together for stretches, hellos, and introductions. This particular class had children ranging in ages from 23 months to 3 1/4 years. The kids are kept interested in their warm up with fun dance music that even gets some of the parents, myself included, waving their arms and stomping their feet. The kids all sing a song together about a horse which made (S) laugh hysterically and then the whole group dances in a circle to a special “numbers rumba.” There is a lot of positive energy coming from the head instructor, Anthony, and he clearly has control over the group as a leader and facilitator.

Anthony and (S) during warm-ups.

Anthony then shows us how we are going to work on our “practice skill of the week”, a forward roll. The younger children are taught to protect their necks while some of the older children were working on getting all the way over. The skills were taught in a way that involves caregivers so that we can go home and continue practicing with our children. Once we were done working on our forward rolls, the kids were free to roam the gym in an open setting called “Adventure Time” during which the staff quickly sets up for “Skills Stations” which also change each week. This week the kids worked on upper body strength and strengthening core muscles by swinging on rings, pulling their legs up, and even some beginner gymnastics for the older children. Each child waits for a turn and all the children and parents cheer together as each classmate completes their work on the rings.

(S) works on his skills on the rings!

Next up was swings!!!! Clipped to safety wires that can hold 100 pounds on EACH rope is a swing set heaven. There are big kid swings, swings that move in circles, swings shaped like airplanes, and swings that look like trains. The parents are reminded to keep the swings “low and slow” and that children must be 30 months old to swing on the larger swings. Even though everyone is having a blast, safety is still the primary concern at My Gym in Yorktown Heights. During this time Anthony set up another fun riding station called the slippery ice ride. This is a riding toy that slides down a slight incline and lands the child into the ball pit. At first (S) was terrified, but once he realized that he landed in the balls he was all for it!

Once the swings are taken down the kids were asked to return to their circle for a “surprise”. Today’s surprise was a Frisbee for each child to hold and play with. The instructors used this as an opportunity to give them a lesson on shapes (circle) and music (play it like a drum). This was also a great way of getting everyone back together for some quieter fun before officially ending the class. Once the toys are put back away, a formal goodbye song is sung together while the staff prepares to help the parents get the children’s shoes and socks back on.

If that hour didn’t sound like enough fun for the kids and grown-ups, My Gym Yorktown is located in a great shopping center with all different kinds of restaurants, ice cream shops, and a large grocery store. (S) and I made a morning out of it and stopped into Panera for some salads and soup before returning home. My favorite part of the class? (S) was asleep the second I pulled out of the parking lot!

For information about MY GYM Yorktown Heights Contact Anthony at (914) 302-7705 and check out their website: WWW.MYGYM.COM/YORKTOWNHEIGHTS .

ROCKLANDNYMOM READERS – USE OUR SPECIAL CODE TO RECEIVE $25 OFF OF THE LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP AND/OR 10% OFF OF BIRTHDAY PARTIES BOOKED USING THE CODE: RNYM AT MY GYM YORKTOWN HEIGHTS. CLICK HERE FOR THE COUPON, AND BE SURE TO COMMENT ON THIS POST WHEN YOU USE IT!

FARM TO TABLE SPRING FUNDRAISER AT THE GNC, Sunday, June 22nd from 4pm-7pm

Posted on June 10, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Out and about..., Yumm! .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post.

What: Farm To Table Spring Fundraiser at the GNC
Where: Greenburgh Nature Center
When: Sunday, June 22 from 4pm-7pm
How Much: Members–$100 per person; Non-members–$150 per person (Children can attend at the per person rate ages 12 and older only; Childcare available for an additional fee for ages 2-12)

For further information, call (914) 723-3470 or go to: www.greenburghnaturecenter.org

FARM TO TABLE SPRING FUNDRAISER AT THE GNC, Sunday, June 22^nd from 4pm-7pm

Come to the Greenburgh Nature Center for their 2^nd Annual Farm to Table dinner and wine tasting fundraiser on Sunday, June 22 from 4pm-7pm. Guests enjoy seasonal fare from local restaurants, bakeries and wineries. All signups are online. Go to the homepage and click on Farm to Table. Hurry—only a limited number of tickets are still available!

Guests have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal from an assortment of local restaurants and bakeries listed below that promote using locally grown products and provide seasonal fare. In addition, wineries from the Hudson Valley region showcase their award winning wines. GNC’s natural setting provides a lovely and elegant backdrop for this special evening.

When you arrive at the event, you’ll be greeted by the GNC team and invited to start your evening with appetizers and a glass of award winning, local wine from the Hudson Valley region. You’ll have an opportunity to stroll around the grounds and learn about our animals, exhibits and educational programs from GNC Naturalists and interns.

After appetizers, you’ll gather around long tables to enjoy a meal prepared by several local restaurants and bakeries that provide seasonal fare and promote using locally grown products. Participants walk around to the different stations, each featuring a different restaurant. Each menu item includes ingredients harvested or sourced fresh from local area farms and will be accompanied by local wines. Throughout the meal, you can speak with the different local Chefs as well as the wine makers who provided the evening’s meal.

In an effort to reinforce GNC’s mission and sustainability message, we are asking everyone to bring their own dinnerware (china, glasses, silverware). There is an opportunity to rinse them off before you pack them up to bring them home. We have been diligently working to reduce waste and you will be helping us to do this.

GNC is a nature preserve, complete with uneven dirt trails and a grass Great Lawn. You will be touring the grounds and dinner will be served outdoors (under a tent if necessary), at tables set up on the Great Lawn, so please dress comfortably and casually, and wear practical shoes. Dinner will be held rain or shine, and evenings can be chilly, so wear or bring a sweater and/or jacket and appropriate layers. The event is held outside, so if the weather is nice, don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses and hats.

The cost per person is $100 for members, $150 for Non-members. Children over 12 years old can attend at the per person rate; childcare is available for an additional fee for ages 2-12. Seating is very limited so sign up online today to reserve your spot. See website to register.

Daycare Dilemma

Posted on June 2, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Money Momma, Out and about..., Thoughts.., Uncategorized .

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

Whether it’s full time work because of need, full time work because of desire, part-time work, or flexible schedule, at some point almost every parent experiences the question of what type of childcare is best for the family. Most of my friends and the parents who I speak to have crossed this hurdle at one time or another. Some have gone through it more than once, realizing that their current arrangement doesn’t make the most sense when they add another child to the mix or have a change in schedule. As a new parent or a veteran with years of experience, choosing the right childcare arrangement can be very overwhelming. Many parents don’t know about the various options available to them.

This piece is meant as a resource to shed some light on the different options available to parents and the benefits of each. The hope being that it will aid you in being able to sort out which type of childcare works best for your family. Local families can also reference our childcare directory which offers choices in each of the categories discussed.

In YOUR home (Nanny or Au Pair) –

No age requirement
Light Housework (laundry, meals for kids)
Au Pair (lives with you), flexible hours (nights/weekends)
Nanny (can live with or out), set hours
Very personalized, they are YOUR childcare, they don’t take on other clients.
Your home, comfortable and safe.
You pick and choose classes or activities for your child to attend (at an additional cost).
Nap at home
Control over what children are eating.

In-home (small daycare in someone’s home)

In a home, so often very comfortable.
Food prepared for you and covered in cost.
Flexible hours.
Usually smaller numbers
Some follow curriculum, most complete crafts etc.
With other children, so offers socialization.

Childcare/Learning Center

Children can often begin around 6 weeks of age.
Follow a curriculum.
Hours mimic those of a parent’s job from roughly 6:30-6:30
Food is included
Many have extended hour programs if needed.

A great guide that I found that has questions you should be asking before choosing a childcare is http://www.dccda.org/referralquestions.shtml there is also a local resource called Childcare Resources of Rockland that you can reach out to if you are feeling overwhelmed.

A special thank you to Cultural Care Au Pair, Here we Grow Childcare, and Julie Cappuccilli for their help during the research portion of this piece.

What’s new at LEGOLAND Westchester?

Posted on May 30, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Out and about..., Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post.

BRICK FACTOR: The search is on for the new Master Model Builder at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester. On Saturday, June 7, stop by LDC to see 25 LEGO lovers compete in several rounds of LEGO building challenges as we pick a new Master Model Builder. The competition kicks off at10am. We are also offering $5 off a ticket to LDC to everyone who comes to check out Brick Factor. Please followthis link to download the coupon.

Monday, June 16 is LEGO Day at Ridge Hill:

Admission to LEGOLAND Discovery Center on Monday, June 16^th is just $10 for everyone all day.
TheNinjago Laser Maze is debuting at LDC on Monday, June 16. This maze invites guests to beat the odds as they attempt to pass through the maze and climb over lasers of a variety of colors. At the Ninjago Laser Maze, you and your family can step inside the new Ninjago Training Camp to see if you have what it takes to join the Ninjago Team and take on the bad guys with creativity, agility and skill. Can you make it all the way through? There’s only one way to find out!
Starting at 7pm, head over to Ridge Hill’s Town Square for more fun and activities, including aFREE outdoor showing of The LEGO Movie, which will start at sundown.

Adult Fans of LEGO Night is back on Thursday, June 5 at 7pm. Only Adults over 18 are permitted and a cash bar will be available for attendees over 21. Adult Nights are the first Thursday of every month.

Greenburgh Nature Center- Story Walks Begin

Posted on May 29, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Out and about... .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post.

What: Story Walk
Where: Greenburgh Nature Center
When: June 29 (KICKOFF AT 1PM) throughSeptember 28
How Much: FREE

For further information, call(914) 723-3470 or go to: www.greenburghnaturecenter.org

SUNDAY, June 29 – 1:00 PM– STORY WALK KICKOFF AND GRAND OPENING EVENT

Reading and nature walks –two of our favorite things! Join us for our 6th Annual Story Walk, an innovative program that combines the two. Naturalist John Mancuso leads you along our woodland trail to enjoy a favorite children’s storybook entitled Opossum at Sycamore Road by Sally M. Walker. California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) will be on hand with favorite foods and drinks to sample, bookmarks good for one free CPKid’s meal, activity sheets, and a raffle for a CPK $20 gift certificate. Recommended for children ages 8 & younger. Sponsored by California Pizza Kitchen. FREE

STORY WALK CONTINUES…THROUGH SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28^th – Come by to enjoy Opossum at Sycamore Road, as many times as you want, all summer long. Bookmarks, activity sheets, passes for a free CPKids Meal, and entry forms for our weekly raffle for a CPK $20 gift certificate will be available in the Manor House. Sponsored by California Pizza Kitchen. Recommended for ages 8 and younger. FREE

CPK has been a strong supporter of the GNC for over five years. In addition to sponsoring events, donating food and beverages, and volunteering at some of our events, they also donate 20% of your check when you go to CPK and use the free CPKid’s meal certificate. So help them support us by going to CPK and enjoying a delicious meal there!

The Greenburgh Nature Center is a 33-acre woodland preserve with trails, a pond, gardens, a playground, and outdoor animal exhibits, including a birds of prey aviary. Our indoor exhibits include a live animal museum with over 100 specimens, exhibit areas focusing on nature and the environment, a greenhouse with botanical exhibits, and a gift shop. We offer special programs for groups of all ages on a wide range of environmental topics, camps and birthday parties, either here or at your location. We also have a variety of volunteeropportunities for all ages and skill levels.

The mission of the Greenburgh Nature Center is to offer inspiring, hands-on environmental education experiences, to foster an appreciation of nature, and to promote sustainable practices.

The Nature Center is located at 99 Dromore Road, off Central Park Avenue, in Scarsdale, NY. Parking is free, and handicapped parking is available. The Nature Center’s grounds are open daily dawn to dusk throughout the year. The Center’s indoor exhibits are open daily (except CLOSED Fridays and a few holidays), 9:30AM -4:30PM on weekdays and 10AM – 4:30PM on weekends. For more information, visit our website at www.greenburghnaturecenter.org or call 914-723-3470.

Let’s make every step count!

Posted on May 27, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Good Cause, Out and about... .

SunriseWALKS for Children with Cancer Sunrise Day Camp

Pearl River Annual Walk on Sunday, June 8

Let’s make every step count!

Disclaimer: This is an unsponsored post, this information was released to RNYM for publication.

You know I have a soft spot for charities, especially those that have to do with, well pretty much everyone. Here is a fantastic one right in our backyard!

Starting at 10:00am on Sunday, June 8^th, Sunrise Day Camp – Pearl River, will host their second annual fundraising walk-a-thon, SunriseWALKS, to help children with cancer and their siblings attend summer day camp free of charge. This is a fun-noncompetitive event is located at the Henry Kaufmann campground in Pearl River, NY, just minutes from the Tappan Zee Bridge The two courses, 1 and 5k, end at a finish line complete with music, games, refreshments and fun for the whole family. There are so many ways to get involved – walk, run, be a virtual walker, sponsor a participant or even volunteer at the event. Advance registration is on-line at www.sunrise-walks.org or just come by at 8:30am the day of the event when registration begins. The team mascot of the Rockland Boulders, Boulder Bird, will be on hand to greet everyone and the national anthem will be performed by local teen sensation, Tyler Miller. “Everyone who participates in SunriseWALKS helps support the camp in a big way.” Said Sandy Haft, Director of Sunrise Day Camp – Pearl River. “This allows us to continue to create a place where lives are changed for the better for children struggling with cancer.”

This will be the second summer for Sunrise Day Camp – Pearl River, a special place where children enjoy the healing power a fun summer camp experience. Every day camper families deal with the tremendous financial and emotional burdens of medical costs related to cancer treatments and hospitalizations. In order not add to that burden, Sunrise is offered completely free of charge. It is only through the generosity of others, and events like SunriseWALKS, that we can make certain no child is turned away. “Sunrise Day Camp is a place where children enjoy just being kids and can forget about their illness. It also provides a respite for parents and allows them to create some normality in their lives.” Commented Sandy Haft, Director, Sunrise Day Camp – Pearl River.

Sunrise Day Camps are the only full summer dedicated day camps in the nation for children with cancer, ages 3 ½ – 16 and their siblings. Located on 95 beautiful wooded acres in the Henry Kaufman Campgrounds in Pearl River, NY, Sunrise Day Camp – Pearl River, is a member of the Sunrise Day Camps Association. The camp serves children from Manhattan, the Bronx, Westchester, Rockland and Orange Counties, Southern Connecticut, and Northern New Jersey.

For more information about SunriseWALKS and to register, go to www.sunrise-walks.org or contact Alison Rubin at arubin@rosenthaljcc.org, 914-741-0333 x 23. Every dollar raised through this walk will ensure that those who desperately need a summer filled with fun, joy and laughter will get to have one! Let’s make every step count!

A Fun Emergency…

Posted on May 16, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Out and about..., Reviews .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as we were invited to the Fire Museum.

If you have a daughter or son who loves trucks like I do then you have to check this place out!!! Recommended to me by a good friend, I decided that other people had to know about it. The FASNY Museum of Firefighting in Hudson, NY is a must visit!!! The exhibits are amazing, informative and interactive, the people are very nice and so helpful, and the fun is endless.

As it is two hours away from Rockland County it is perfect for a day trip (yes it will take you the good part of the day). My husband was a little skeptical, he thought it was just going to be a giant garage with Fire trucks that you cannot touch. When you first enter, that’s what it looks like, but it is not all that it is. Luckily (A) really likes these things, so he was very excited from the get go. There are amazing trucks. (A) who loves trucks kept running around the maze of trucks clapping his hands and yelling, “Mom over here!” Attached to each setup is a laminated sheet that tells you about the history of the trucks. It was really interesting to read. Some of the shapes of the trucks and the innovations that were used in their creation was really awe inspiring. On the same floor there is a display with patches from all over the United States and beyond. These were also neat to see, and fun to search for your local departments. Up a set of 5 stairs is where things get more interesting. When you first walk into the room you see VERY OLD trucks. Those which were hooked up to horses to get to their emergencies or hand pulled. There are lots of historical items to check out (most of which (A) said cool and ran on). But then we encountered the truck with the leather buckets. At this area there is a simulation that shows how the “bucket brigade” works. (A) actually got to fill up a bucket with foam balls run it to a lit up thatch building and “put out the fire” by bringing enough buckets to the hut. There is a timer that you can log your best time on too. Very cool.

Turn the corner and there is even more for you to explore! I won’t get into all of the details about each station, because you should really see for yourself, but if your child would enjoy dressing up like a firefighter and “driving” trucks, digging for treasure, or playing in a marching band, then this is the place to be! By the time we moved on from this room (I think it was more than an hour) (A) was sweating from head to toe and breathing heavy. I think that he would have stayed even longer if I had let him.

There is also a great fire safety room with crafts to do. In this same area kids can learn to “stop drop and roll”, dial 911, crawl under smoke, watch fire safety cartoons, take in a puppet show (during the summer and group trips), and a lesson on the Science of Fire (also arranged for larger groups). Additionally, there are interactive games throughout that you can complete and check your answers…

What could be more fun than that?? Perhaps what is not yet there (well it’s started) is even better than what the museum already has… They are in the process of building a junior firefighter challenge interactive display. Where kids can climb a ladder, slide down a poll, put out a fire, and more. This new exhibit will debut late this summer. It was very difficult to keep (A) away from it (it was roped off, but that wouldn’t have held him if I weren’t diligent). As if all of the interactive and educational fun you had wasn’t enough there is also a great gift store. This is fire toy heaven. There are books, stuffed animals, DVDs, costumes, hats, clothing, trucks galore, water packs, pencils, pens, candy, postcards, magnets, and so much more! I thought we were going to have to purchase the whole store. The prices were reasonable too, we purchased a birthday boy ribbon, two hats, two mugs, a pencil, and a fire truck for less than $20. If you don’t plan to purchase souvenirs make sure to ask for your free folder on the way out. This includes more fire safety information and activities for your child.

I recommend a baby carrier if you also have a little one like I do, as there are two floors, but there is a ramp that can be used for strollers if you would rather. It was not crowded when we were there so there were no space issues, but I could imagine that if it were a little busier than it would be really tight. The carrier allowed me to easily put (E) down for the trucks and activities that she could participate in as well. There are no concessions available on the premises so you will have to eat before and/or after. There are some beautiful grounds where a picnic would be nice. At the entrance there is also a book that tells you about local restaurants that you can go to. Recommended to us was the American BBQ which is a family restaurant that was opened in a former fire house!!! We didn’t go because we had to come home for a previous engagement, but we plan to go there when we visit this summer to try out the new exhibit. This is a great little secret that more people should know about, it’s amazing!!!

For more information about The FASNY Firefighting Museum visit their website at: http://www.fasnyfiremuseum.com/ , they are also on social media (Facebook, twitter, Instagram). Make sure to check often or sign up for their emails as they often have special events that you can attend. They also have distance learning classes that you can use in the classroom, or for a scout troop. Need some supplies for a fire themed birthday party? You can also purchase their gift store items online http://www.fasnyfiremuseum.com/store/index.asp .

Stroll Through a Magical Secret Garden…

Posted on May 7, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Out and about..., Reviews, Thoughts.. .

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post as I was invited to Lightscapes. All opinions expressed are my own.

It’s been a long winter. I have read and written countless articles about how to occupy a toddler indoors, and how anxious we all are to explore the outdoors once again. The spring has been a bit of a drag too; an unpredictable time where it has been 75 degrees and beautiful one day followed by a random hail storm in April. I don’t know about you, but I am dying to get out of the house!

I like many other moms have started booking excursions in hopes that the weather will cooperate with me. Imagine my delight when I stumbled upon Lightscapes. Having been to the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze this past fall I was super excited when I heard that the creators of the project were creating a similar attraction for the spring. If you recall my post on the Blaze (click here) you will know that we enjoyed it thoroughly. (A) loved all of the different shapes and sizes of the creations. We did as well. Given the great time that we had at the Blaze, I had high expectations for Lightscapes.

I was a little nervous about a few things before hand, which included the late hour (first show starts at 8 so that it is dark), the tricky weather (boy did we luck out), was (E) too young? The first show was a perfect time for us to get in, and have a good time, have a conversation about what we saw in the car, and for the kids to fall asleep on the way home. Some parents had their kids in their pajamas already (smart) so that they were ready when they left. The weather was agreeable and warm (thank goodness), we all had light jackets on and were quite comfortable. (E) was certainly not too young. At 9 months she was pulling herself more upright in the stroller to strain to see the lights. She was captivated from the first rainbow to the last flower on the road. She really enjoyed trying to touch the bubbles and was even cooperative when we tried to take a few photos.

Lightscapes did not fall short of my expectations, it exceeded them. Lightscapes is like a stroll through a magical secret garden. The artists have painstakingly created a world of wonder with many everyday items. Incorporated in the beauty is also a lovely mix of music as well as a butterfly maze, and the bubbles at the entrance (a fan favorite). (A) loved walking along the path and shouting out the different animals and shapes that he saw. Upon closer inspection we started talking about the supplies used to create the beautiful shapes as well. By the end of the walk, he was very excited to announce that the flower was made out of a bottle, and wait wasn’t that a bowling pin??! We delighted in running through the butterfly and bamboo maze (D) hiding around the corner and popping out to catch (A) unaware. When we got to the main building and saw the vines growing up the façade, we had a nice conversation about why vines grow upward.

The walk takes about an hour start to finish, depending on how long you spend checking out each display. I brought my jogger stroller based on my experience with The Blaze, but might have been happier with the Baby Bjorn this time. There is one point where the path gets very narrow, and you cannot bring the stroller into the butterfly maze. At the end of the walk you can purchase some refreshments (black and pastel, cookies, gourmet local ice cream, etc.) and/or some souvenirs (blinking fairy wings, light up swords and more). We really enjoyed our visit to Lightscapes and (A) has been talking about it for days.

I have to apologize for my pictures, you know how motherhood is. Everything was packed, and when I got there the camera battery was dead. I have added the official link to Lightscapes (click here) as my pictures do not truly do it justice, but they do show my story, and the joy that my family was experiencing, if you want to see how truly wonderful it is, you will just have to go and see for yourself!

(A) rides on (D)’s shoulders as we enter. That big arch, is actually a giant rainbow!

Some of the beautiful flowers, look closely, can you see what types of everyday items were used??

A path of beautiful mushrooms, even by cell phone they are beautiful!

Some magic comes to life!

A selfie in front of the main building!

Family shot!

What’s more difficult than wrangling two small children to get amazing photos?

Posted on May 5, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Out and about..., Photo Obsessed, Reviews .

Adding a 91 lb Chocolate Lab.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as I was invited to a session with HoneyBee Photography NY. All opinions expressed here are my own.

My obsession with amazing photographs is no secret (an entire page dedicated to my photo obsession??). To that end I feel it is super important for all parents to know about the amazing opportunities out there for documenting the growth of your families, the special events, etc. Even more important to me is that everyone know that you don’t have to use a large chain to do so. Many parents are under the impression that the only way to get these beautiful photos in an affordable manner is through one of these chains, or online coupons. That is so far from the truth. Photos should be more personal than that. I am completely honest when I review or if asked about who to use for what type of photos, that is how important it is to me. I took pictures with a Groupon at JCP in the fall. The pictures were fine, very nice, would have really liked them if I had never done private photos. BUT there was an assembly line feel that I didn’t love. You are in and out and there are people waiting and distractors, and you have to choose right there and they try to upsell you. Not for me, I upsell myself without any prodding needed, believe me.

Here’s what I like about hiring a private photographer. It’s personal, you aren’t just another number, another sale…. Take my amazing experience with HoneyBee Photography NY this past weekend. I met Jen online after seeing some of her pictures and specials posted. Once we connected we decided on a date. Jen does on-location shoots. This means that she either comes to your house or you decide on a venue to take pictures. I don’t have great lighting at my house indoors for photos, and my yard is not yet in bloom (delayed spring?) so I left the venue up to Jen. She chose Peck’s Pond in West Haverstraw. I had never been there before, but will be back. It’s a great little pond with a park and its dog friendly which is great for us. Duncan (my 91 lb Lab) is like my third child, or my first if you want to get technical. Since we were working outdoors I wanted to include him if possible, so I asked. Jen was happy to oblige. She said it would be great. I was impressed right away that she was willing to take on the task, a 9 month old (she recently discovered motion and never stops), a 3 year old (who is tired of taking pictures since mommy is obsessed), and a 91 lb dog… That’s a lot to tackle.

During our exchanges I asked her what types of ideas she had and Jen emailed me samples of her thoughts right away. I loved the ideas, very organic. Then of course the day of, (A) decides that he needs to bring his Acoustic Guitar. I am panicking (planner that I am I hadn’t thought about it), how will I get it away from him, how will we incorporate it and the dog??? Is it too much? Nope. Jen was more than happy that (A) had decided to bring a little of himself along, and added it right away, earning some of the cutest photos. They really show his personality (really you should see the one where he is trying to take the guitar away from his sister). At first Duncan was difficult, new place, water, ducks, so many smells, he did not want to sit still. But after a bit he settled down and Jen was able to capture a phenomenal photo of my three children.

Jen has the patience of a saint. (A) was not in the mood for pictures that day (my mother blames my constant picture taking). She was able to get him to cooperate easily, getting him to pose for several more shots than I would have been able to get him to do. When we walked from spot to spot, he wanted to hold her hand, and she had no problem with that either. She captured so many fantastic moments with the kids together (thank goodness) that you would never know he was being less than cooperative.

Then there are the pictures; they speak for themselves (see below). They are amazing, so natural and so perfect at the same time. I can barely choose which ones are favorites. It’s so great to see the kids with each other, you can really see their relationship in the pictures. I was sent a link when the pictures were ready, along with a password. If I forget the link, I can reach them from the “client access” section of her website. I can view all of the pictures right there, and order prints at the same time. I can open them later to look at with a friend when I am having difficulty making my choices. There is no pressure to purchase and no one watching you as you choose. If you buy a few and love them and need some more, you can log back in and order again. Looking for a canvas, they are on there, as are ceramic tiles, key chains, t-shirts. A myriad of choices.

With the session you also get 5 digital shots emailed to you with a letter stating that you have the rights to those photos. You can then upload or bring a CD to your favorite place (Shutterfly, Walgreens, CVS, Snapfish, etc.) and order even more items. The possibilities are endless.

HoneyBee Photography runs specials often, different ones at different times of the year to help you to capture those moments in an affordable manner, so you have to go back often and look (also posted on our site). The icing on the cake is that for less than I spent once I was done with the Groupon from JCPenny I have all of these options and the personal attention that Jen offers. The choice is obvious.

To see HoneyBee Photography’s current specials CLICK HERE. You can also contact Jen through her website www.honeybeephotographyny.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/HoneyBee-Photography-NY/628693593813915?fref=ts

A beautiful picture of (A) and (E) on a park bench!

(A) shows (E) how to play his acoustic guitar. A common picture in my life, he is so patient with her.

(A) goofs around in the gazebo.

(E) is just learning to walk at 10 months, (A) helps her along. So sweet!!!

The perfect photo of my three kids. I am so in love with this one.

It Takes a Village…

Posted on April 30, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Good Cause, Out and about..., Thoughts.., We're Having a Party .

GABI’S GOLD FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES

“NO MO CHEMO PARTY DONATED BY ROCKLAND COUNTY’S ART ADVENTURE STUDIO”

Partners with Rocklandnymom.com to give 3 year old cancer patient Gabi Olivo the party of a lifetime

ORGANGEBURG, NEW YORK – Gabi’s Gold Foundation today announced their partnership with Art Adventure Studio in Orangeburg, NY as well as Rocklandnymom.com BLOG to give 3 year old cancer patient Gabrielle Olivo a birthday party experience to celebrate the end of her very intense chemotherapy treatments given to fight Neuroblastoma. The nonprofit organization has graciously accepted Art Adventure’s party donation and has proven that smiles happen when a community pulls together!

A pre-school scholarship awarded to Gabi from Busy Bee Play School director Ric Rabinowitz started the ball rolling. “Gabi was immediately welcomed into the class by the other children and it was the one place she could go where no one noticed cancer,” says the foundation’s Chief Financial Officer, Jamie Flesher. “Gabi loved being with the other children, and parents were thrilled to welcome the Olivo Family into the Busy Bee family.” Gabi is only permitted to attend school when her immune system is not being knocked down by her treatments. With her most difficult treatments having just been completed (a stem-cell transplant) and her immune system rebooting, it was clear that she deserved a party with her Busy Bee friends.

Alysson Burgos, co-owner of Art Adventure in Orangeburg quickly came to the table to offer to throw Gabi a NO MO CHEMO party in her studio, a donation, at no cost to the family or the foundation. “Of course when Jamie approached me my answer was yes.” said Alysson,“We are honored that Art Adventure was their venue of choice and cannot wait to see the look on Gabi’s face when we give her the most fantastic party we can.” According to Jamie Flesher, the recently opened Art Adventure was her unequivocal first choice for the party stating, “The staff is amazing. The studio is amazing. Gabi loves art. This is the place for her celebration, no question about it.” With the venue set, all that was left to do was organize the smaller details, Jamie went home that night and immediately emailed Rocklandnymom.com blogger, Megan Johnston. Jamie says of Megan “She knows the Rockland community better than anyone. I just wanted to know what she thought of the idea and if she had any suggestions.” Touched by Gabi’s story and having recently lost her own father to cancer, Megan offered free advertising on Rocklandnymom.com’s site for any contributors to Gabi’s NO MO CHEMO party. She also quickly began to reach out to local cake bakers, banner creators, and crafters to see who would be interested in participating. “The offers were flying in and still are!” says Megan. “I am so proud to be a member of such a compassionate and giving community. I knew they would step up to the plate.”

Donors so far include:

Art Adventure
Create By Carrie
Creations by Dawne
Jolirose Cake Shop
Treasures by TheresaAnn
A photographer

Gabi’s NO MO CHEMO party (affectionately being re-named a Yay Gabi party since she is too young to understand chemotherapy) will take place this June when her immune system is strong enough to allow her to be around her friends. Her entire Busy Bee class will be invited thanks to Art Adventure’s generous donation.

ABOUT GABI’S GOLD FOUNDATION/NEUROBLASTOMA

Gabrielle Paige Olivo was a typical sweet and adventurous two year old who loved all things princess, Dora, and her ballet class until August 2013. Two and a half weeks before her third birthday, she was diagnosed with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma. Neuroblastoma is a particularly rare and aggressive form of nerve cancer that affects only children.Since diagnosis Gabi has undergone 2 life threatening surgeries, 6 rounds of chemotherapy, a stem-cell transplant, and radiation. Over the next 6 months, she will receive 5 rounds of immunotherapy and 6 months of oral chemotherapy. Her foundation seeks to raise funds for Gabi’s treatment and research as well as raise awareness about this rare disease. At this time, there is no known cure for Neuroblastoma.

Read Gabi’s story at www.facebook.com/GabiNationTotallyRocks

Donate to Gabi’s treatments and research http://www.gofundme.com/4nmdlg

ABOUT ART ADVENTURE

Art Adventure offers art instruction to children and young adults. We strive to offer exciting and enticing courses that will appeal to our students while providing intensive educational instruction. Using various mediums and fun themes, students are introduced to the world of art by artist Eric Stormes, a teacher who is certified in both New York and New Jersey, and who has extensive experience art education.

Art Adventure can also host your child’s unique birthday party,private events and offer after school programs for grades K through 12 at our studio.

For more information on Art Adventure and their programs visit: www.artadventureny.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/artadventureny1.

ABOUT ROCKLANDNYMOM.COM

RocklandNYMom.com is a reference for Rockland County Parents. Megan Johnston, a Rockland native, mother of two, teacher, and coach, as well as the CEO and Editor of the site. RocklandNYMom.com has a calendar of events as well as directories for children’s classes, birthday party information, photographers, specialty items, crafts, camps, childcare and other services. Johnston offers insights as to many items that may be useful to parents at any age. On the BLOG portion of the site Megan gives you a sneak peek of the services provided by many of the directories listed as well as crafts you can do with your children, birthday party advice, and so much more!

Check it out at www.rocklandnymom.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/rocknyom .

ABOUT BUSY BEE PLAYSCHOOL

Busy Bee is a family owned and operated preschool that has been keeping children of Rockland as busy as bees since opening its door in 1983.

Busy Bee is a play oriented multi-age developmental preschool dedicated to providing students and families with a memorable early childhood education and experience. With our “hands-on-minds-on” approach our dedicated staff has created a program that fosters children’s growth socially, emotionally, cognitively and physically.

The goal of our program is to create a fun environment that encourages the individual growth of each child through play and hands on exploration and experimentation. It all works together to develop the foundation which prepares each child for a lifelong love of learning.

For more information on Busy Bee Playschool visit: http://busybeeplayschool.com/

Despite it all, Gabi is always smiling, always happy. A truly inspiring angel.

If you are interested in helping out or donating to Gabi’s cause please contact: Jamie Flesher JFlesher@gmail.com or Megan Johnston RocklandNYMom@yahoo.com

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