Category Archives: Reviews

Climbing out of our Comfort Zone

Posted on by Posted in Birthdays, Classes, Classes for Kids, Day Trips, Day Trips, Health and Wellness, Out and about..., Party, Reviews, RNYM's Picks .

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

As a child, when we were driving somewhere and we would pass tall rock formations on the side of the road, I would daydream about climbing them.  I’ve always been a very physical person, I like to push my body’s limits, to try new things.  But I never got around to trying it.  I was super excited when we were invited to the climbzone to try it out, as was my action/adventure loving daughter.  My son, a true first child, was a bit more skeptical.  

So we made an appointment to go try it out and wouldn’t you know, my daughter gets sick.  She was SOOOO bummed. Gotta love the cold and flu season.  

We went on a Tuesday so that it wouldn’t be super crowded, and decided to make it a mother son date of sorts, we would grab some food afterwards and have an evening out.  It is easy to find in the food court and is slightly intimidating at first.  

The staff was friendly and took the time to explain the safety measures to us first and foremost as they fit us with harnesses and went over the safety procedures.  They chatted with us about how long they had worked there, and about the ratings of the different climbing walls.  We decided that as a first time, we would stick to the 1-2’s. 

BOY WERE WE NERVOUS!  Our first climbs were our lowest, as we cautiously learned the ropes.  Slowly during our time we began to challenge ourselves and then each other.  Eventually making it to the top of the tower of London, and scaling a dinosaur skeleton.  At the end one of the employees even suited up and climbed with us (it is not fair how effortlessly she was able to climb, just saying).

We had a BLAST.  Though A and I tend to be more cautious, we really got up there, and afterwards said we would definitely do it again.  Especially because E missed out, we will have to go back. 

It was good though, because A is the harder sell on this one.  He loves the puzzle type places where you work to solve something, but is more skeptical of some of the adventurous ones.  When we went to dinner afterwards, I asked his honest opinion.  He said he loved it, would do it again, and wants to go when I bring E. 

It’s a great activity for a fun birthday party, and I can see it being perfect for any scouts, as well as team building opportunities.  When I asked A if there was anything special that he wanted me to add to the review, he said to make sure that I mentioned multiple times how lovely the staff was.  They didn’t just do their job, they got to know him, laughed with him, challenged him to climb higher, and complemented his behavior.  

It was a super good experience, I enjoyed watching A overcome some of his inhibitions and challenge himself physically and mentally.  I look forward to returning, and bringing with us the most fearless of the crew so that she can in turn challenge us to do even more. 

As Always if you should choose to visit Climbzone after reading our review, please let them know you heard about them here <3

 

Four Stars for Movie House Paramus

Posted on by Posted in Birthdays, Day Trips, Day Trips, Events, Out and about..., Photography, Reviews .

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

My kids are getting older, and I am looking for more and more activities that I can do with them, or activities that might be fun with friends. They are at an age where they may want to get dropped off somewhere and adventure on their own now. Have some independence-  but I still like to know that we can spend some time together, and that if they are going out there, that what they are doing is safe and wholesome to a degree.

This past Friday we were invited to check out the Movie House in the Paramus Park Mall.  When I read the description I quickly realized that it was the perfect place to spend some time together.  

What is it?

Movie House features 10 intricately themed rooms, each filled with captivating details, collectibles and hidden surprises.  From Willy Wonka to Harry Potter, Top Gun to Alice in Wonderland guests can lose themselves in the magic of the films they know and love.  Test your knowledge with room-specific questions and indulge in the immersive environments, from sandy beaches to enchanted forests.

How was our visit?

I love this experience because the Paramus Park Mall is so easy to get to, and I always feel safe there with the kids.  Movie House is easy to find on the ground floor of the mall underneath the food court.  We parked outside of the Old Navy and were able to walk straight in.

The visit comes with a guide to walk you through moving from room to room, but they don’t pressure you to move on, you’ve got plenty of time to take your Instagrammable Photos, test your knowledge and enjoy the moment.  In fact, you can circle back afterwards if you would like.  Which is especially lovely when they give you a little bag of popcorn to enjoy.

The movies chosen for each room are relevant and enjoyable for all ages.  A family that loves to dress up, we had fun putting on hats, robes, eye patches and more.  We were surprised and loved walking into the Blockbuster video store where us adults were struck with some major nostalgia, and we explained what it was to the kids.  Loved it so much I had to snap a photo of (A) and send it home to RNYDad. 

Although walking through and taking photos etc is fun, I was inspired when we saw the screening room.  Fun and comfy to stop in with the family and watch the movie that was on at the time (Dr. Strange).  Immediately I thought, this would be the perfect place to have a birthday party for my now “tween” daughter.  She and her friends could run around and take photos in each of the rooms, and screen a movie “under the stars” in the screening room.  It’s a great way to have a run time, and not worry about the weather (as I end up doing when I throw backyard parties). NO mess to clean up at my house afterwards, no need to spend extra money on photo op props that I have to find homes for afterwards.  I inquired about this when we exited and YES they do it.  You even talk to them about the group and choose an appropriate movie to show.  

This means that the possibilities are literally endless.  It’s the perfect activity for really hot, or rainy days during the summer.  You can go as a family, group of friends, or host a party/event for groups!  You choose your tickets and time slot online- it’s so easy.  

It took us about an hour and fifteen minutes to get through the experience.  We took our Great Aunt, and everyone was raving about what a great time it was.  We ran right upstairs afterwards to grab a bite to eat before heading home.  

What I love

  • It was fun with family, but I would feel comfortable with my kids going with a group of friends.
  • There are possibilities and enough things to keep every age occupied (we ranged ages 10-67 when we went).
  • The staff was super friendly.
  • The experience was clean- well kept.
  • Affordable outing for a family 
  • The kids were excited to head to the next room and see what it was- no complaining happened.
  • The possibilities for groups, events and parties. 

Important information:

Movie House is open through August 26th of this year.  This location will also house “Halloween House” and “Christmas House”.  These both sound like things our family will totally enjoy.  In fact, I can absolutely imagine doing a family party watching a scary movie under the stars since we love Halloween.  The same can really be said for Christmas!

For tickets: www.moviehouseparamus.com

Family and group packages are available.

Children Under 3 are free

Contact: 201-402-2880

Hours:

M-Th 4pm-8pm 

Fri 2 pm- 8 pm 

Sat 11 am – 8 pm

We pride ourselves in being able to bring to you attention unique and fun activities. 

As always, we appreciate it if you let them know you heard about them here!  

 

Kicking off Spring Break with a Time Mission Review!

Posted on by Posted in Birthdays, Day Trips, Party, Reviews, Things to Do! .

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

My kids are now 9 adn 12.  We do a lot of different activities than we used to.  Our adventures are growing with us.  That’s one reason we were excited when Time Mission in the Palisades Mall reached out.  Admittedly we don’t spend a lot of time down at the mall, and hadn’t even heard that it had opened.  Checking out the website got us excited- even RNYD- who puts up with my antics- but is rarely excited about them.

What is Time Mission?  Geared toward kids 7+ and adults, it’s along the same lines as an escape room experience, except instead of one room to escape, there are up to 32 different rooms to solve, all like mini timed escape rooms.  They play to different strengths and different interests in each room.  You can go for an evening/afternoon of family fun, bigger kids can go to hang out, and they do birthday parties (which is awesome because its harder and harder to find places for the older kids who are FAR too mature for the same old places).

We decided it would be the perfect way to kick off Spring Break together, so we made reservations for Friday night.  Making reservations is easy, you simply go online to their Website and choose a day, time and whether you would like a 60 or 90 minute session.  The process is easy, and they had us all set when we showed up for our reservation.  There was no waiting online to choose and pay, we were right in.

After locking up your loose belongings, you are given a chipped bracelet to wear which is what unlocks each room.  Outside of each room is a graph that tells you what strengths this particular room plays on, and a brief description.  If you press the “i” there is information on how to solve the room, TRUST ME READ THE “i”.  There were a few that we had NO clue how to solve simply because we got so excited to go in we forgot to read first.  The good news is, you can go in again and try once you’ve calmed down and read the information- you just can’t stack the points. This wasn’t an issue for us, since the first time in we hadn’t scored any points.

Before we began, we walked around and read all the descriptions and scenarios.  We gravitated toward the rooms with higher mental abilities since we had two adults and two kids. They were more difficult than we anticipated.  We had greater success with the more physical rooms, the kids enjoyed them greatly, and we did as well.  We had so much fun (paired with some frustrations) that we ran out of time to do all of the rooms that we had planned to.

We were there an hour and a half, and there’s still plenty more to check out, plus the rooms that they are building.  We were glad to see on the leader board that we defeated the people who were there before us.  The staff was super friendly.  Which is a major plus, as that is not always the case.  At the end on your way out, they cut off your chips to recycle them (which is also great).

I asked the kids their thoughts at the end and they said, super fun, would go back, some was frustrating.  I like it though, if it was all too easy, you would get through all the rooms too quickly, and although you would feel like a genius, you wouldn’t have been challenged.

Time Mission is a great place for a Birthday Party, Class Trip, Team Building Outing, Family Outing, or just a Friends Afternoon.  It wasn’t crazy busy- was easy to find up near the food court and it was a different night out for us.  Especially when you are looking for something to do with the kids for a day, or on a cold, rainy day off.  My kids liked it, and I am certain that we’ll end up back here.  This is a great new addition to the local entertainment scene for kids.

The kids have asked me to add that their favorite rooms were the castle, the spy laser room, dystopian forest, paleontology discovery, and the planet ball one <3 in case you were looking for their favorites.

They also wanted me to add:

  • Wear comfortable clothing
  • Wear sneakers
  • Read the directions
  • Go out for your favorite treat afterwards <3

 

Music Spring Break Camps at Bach 2 Rock!

Posted on by Posted in Camps, Classes for Kids, Things to Do! .

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post, all opinions expressed are our own.

Bach to Rock

Spring Break Music Camps Now Available!

April 3rd-7th

Registration is now open for our spring break music camps! This year we are offering a wide variety of camps for the budding musician. Camps will run as week-long programs from Monday, April 3rd, to Friday, April 7th. Both full and half-day sessions are available for registration!

FULL DAY CAMPS 

ROCK BAND

9:00am – 4:00pm

(Ages 7-17)

HALF DAY CAMPS

AM Rock Band / PM Rock Band / PM Beat Making

9:00am – 12:30pm / 12:30pm – 4:00pm

(Ages 7-17)

Rock City World Tour (Preschool – 1st Grade)

9:30am – 12:30pm

*No experience necessary*

Weekly Camp Pricing for Spring Break

Full-Day – $450

Half-Day – $350

Rock City World Tour – $300

Happy Birthday to Bach to Rock!

B2R officially turns 6 years old at our Nanuet location on April 1st! 🎂

We’re excited to be celebrating 6 years of music education here in Nanuet! We’re grateful for all of the relationships that we’ve built within our community and would not be here with all of YOU!

Join us on Saturday, April 1st, from 1:00-3:00pm for our open house! We are offering FREE 10-minute lessons to help you decide which instrument or activity to pursue.

B2R will be running musical activities, class/lesson demos, instrument exploration, and you can meet our staff and instructors! All ages are welcome and kids/adults alike will leave learning something new within the world of music!

Enrollment discounts will also be available for all attendees (new students only). If you have been contemplating learning a new instrument, now is the time to get started! Lessons are available in-person or virtually.

(new students only w/ same-day registration)

Checking off the “To Do” List

Posted on by Posted in In the Home, Reviews, Services .

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

We all have “to do” lists.  Some items are what seems like perpetually on it, like the car clicker to my “mommobile” that has been dead for probably a year and a half. I love having a place that you can stop for a bigger ticket item that you need and check off some other boxes, ESPECIALLY when you don’t even realize it until you are there.

I went to Wallauer this time because I needed color matched paint.  I KNOW that this is a service that they offer, and so I went straight there.

Backstory:  A year ago we purchased a lake house in the Pocono Mountains.  We spent the summer there and enjoyed every moment, except the sand when we got home.  After a day of swimming and playing in the sand, we found that a ton of it was being brought into the house.  After enduring it all summer, we decided to add an outdoor shower for the family to rinse off before coming inside.

In the general area where we wanted to add the shower, there was a hose holder affixed to the house.  When the plumber removed it, we found that the house had been painted somewhat recently, and that when it was, they painted right over the hose holder, and underneath was still red.  It stuck out like a sore thumb, and looked horrid with our new beautiful shower fixture. It HAD to be fixed.

At first I wasn’t sure how to get a color sample and my husband suggested the hose holder.  So, I brought the unlikely sample to the folks at Wallauer to color match.  Even they chuckled at it, but admitted that its not the oddest thing that they have ever had to duplicate.  They said that they would do their best.

While I waited for my custom Regal Select Outdoor paint, I decided to wander the store and see what else they had.  So I headed over to the Ace area.  While I wandered I checked out the different areas of the store.  While I was in the plumbing area I found a new tub stopper (which I desperately needed), and then I found what I really needed.  A new battery for my car clicker.  I’ve been manually unlocking my doors with the key for a year and a half!

They have a full battery area there and once we got the clicker open they showed me how to measure it (we couldn’t read the little numbers) using the display to find the right fit.

At this time my paint was ready.  Nervous about the color match I asked if we could test it.  They already had, and when they showed it to me I was so pleased, it was a perfect match.  I paid for my treasures, and went outside to change the battery.  It worked!  I know its so silly, but I achieved a new level of freedom with that working remote.  I am crazy excited about it, and I have finally checked it off my list :o)

The paint went back to the lake with me that weekend and we used it on the house.  It looks PERFECT!!!  I am so pleased, and glad to say thanks again to the folks at Wallauer for being so helpful!!!

 

Rock n’ Roll! A Destination Recital!

Posted on by Posted in Classes, Out and about..., Photo Obsessed, Reviews, RNYM's Picks, Things to Do!, Travel .

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

When we signed up AJ for drum lessons 4 years ago, we thought of the benefits to him.  He doesn’t love soccer like I did, and I was so glad that he found something that he enjoyed.  We are a music loving family so it wasn’t out of the ordinary to us at all.  We knew that being involved in lessons helps with reading and writing, as well as with mathematics.  We hoped that at some point it would help with the concepts of teamwork, and would teach him how to lead (as the drummer often drives the song). Here’s what we were unprepared for.

We found a school that has been able to reach him in extraordinary ways.  He has developed a real love of music, and an appreciation for all types.  His school has been able to accommodate him throughout a pandemic, meeting with him virtually so that we can remain socially distanced and keep our E, who has some health issues, safe.  He has performed a minimum of 2 times a year since he began, learning about musicianship, and playing in different types of venues.  He began performing along with music, graduated to playing on his own and now he has kicked it up a notch.  

This past August we had the pleasure of watching our son play on one of the most prestigious stages there are.  He was invited to perform at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.  To do this he not only had to learn a new song, but had to learn how to play with a slew of other musicians who he did not have the opportunity to practice with on a regular basis.  He had one practice time, one dress rehearsal and the performance.  So much of this is a real life musical experience that we were floored.  

For us this was a dream experience realized.  A dream we didn’t even know we had.  This kid took each bump in the road (including the rescheduling of the event due to COVID twice) in stride.  Learned 2 songs (one that he abandoned after playing it so long that he was over it), traveled with us all the way to Cleveland by car then performed brilliantly.  

The music school arranged for us a lodging block, as well as the performance and tickets to the hall.  In order for us as parents to be present and not be distracted trying to document the momentous occasion, the school arranged for professional video and photography.  

We planned a whole trip around it.  When honestly will we ever have the opportunity to come back? So we wanted to make sure that we hit all the “must do’s” while there.  We had the BEST TIME (stay tuned for a post with all our favorite things to do in Cleveland in cause you never thought to go and it may end up on your hit list.  

This experience was well worth its weight in gold.  We had the best time, the kids (and adults!) were so professional, and they gained experience they never would have without.  We were in awe at the artifacts in the building, and you could feel the weight of the experience everywhere.  Nerves were replaced with composure and all kids performed beautifully.  (A) enjoyed the experience of playing with all live musicians so much he is now super interested in the Rock Band Class offered by the school.  

Our minds are reeling.  I don’t know how they are going to top it but of course our minds are reeling… Nashville? Where else keeps popping into our minds.  We are so thankful for such a creative and fabulous school where (A) has been flourishing for 4 years already!!! Stay tuned!

Looking for a unique and professional music school where you or your child can flourish? Take advantage of the Halloween Promotion they are currently having!!!  FREE REGISTRATION and FREE FIRST LESSON when you register and mention RNYM.com!!!!

“A Christmas Story House”

Posted on by Posted in Events, Out and about..., Photo Obsessed, Reviews, Things to Do!, Travel, Uncategorized .

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post.  All opinions expressed are my own.  This article contains affiliate links, if you click them and purchase the items we earn a small commission.

As (A) was selected to attend the trip to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with his music school, New City School of Music, we knew right away that we would want to make a family trip out of it (when will we ever have the chance to come back).  I reached out to friends and also my favorite reference, Pinterest, in order to find cool things we had to see, and do.  I will OF COURSE be blogging about all of it.  The first one is the house from the movie “A Christmas Story“.

WARDROBE

I am a HUGE dork as you know, and my kids are getting older FAST.  I had the opportunity to put together some “themed” clothing items and took advantage of it.  I am fully aware that soon enough they won’t allow me to do so, so I did it now (stay tuned for the outfits for our other stops).

The kids got customized gear because I have a circuit so WHY NOT?!

For (A) I of course had to play on “you’ll shoot your eye out”.

Front

https://amzn.to/3krgUbF

For (E) the pink nightmare was PERFECTION.  We did a play on the classic bunny suit scene, and since my little horror loving gal likes creepy things we thought this was befitting.

https://amzn.to/3z2d7Wl

RNYD and I went more classic.  He got a plaid button down shirt to play on the time frame of the movie, as well as to kind of be less dorky (he puts up with me only half willingly).  I used his shirt to tie the ensemble together (special thanks to my girls including RNYM Account Manager Sofija to helping me there).

https://amzn.to/3z2MSPK

For myself we decided to go classic, with a 50’s themed dress  <3

https://amzn.to/3wIXJwk

EXPERIENCE

We purchased our tickets before heading out to Cleveland so that I could put them out that day for the kids.  They are super affordable.  I also keep the clothing a secret having packed them in their bags without their knowledge.  I love that they can wear them again this holiday season too :o)

There is a small amount of off street parking next to the house.

When we got there we went straight to the house to check it out.  You have to have tickets to do this, if you didn’t purchase in advance, you have to go to the store to get them before you can enter. The staff allows you a certain amount of time to walk around and “experience’ the house, check things out and recreate specific scenes that you recall.

You can touch all the things  <3

 

At your scheduled time they call you all together and you learn about the movie and the house, then you get a tour of the outside, the firehouse, museum, and garages.

 

Seeing all the memorabilia was really cool, but I especially loved the fan art that they display.

You finally finish up in the souvenir shop.  THERE ARE SO MANY FUN THINGS this takes time, and restraint :o)  We could have purchased everything, but we chose a few special items for the kids (nope no leg lamp, no bb gun).  The kids each brought money they were able to use for something special and RNYD and I supplemented a bit, of course, we purchased an ornament for the tree to commemorate the experience (which we always do).

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COOL SIDE NOTES

This is a great place to maybe take those “Christmas Card” photos- the staff is super kind and everyone there was so nice, and willing to help you if you wanted a family pic.

They do special events for Christmas in July- check them out if you are considering a visit.

You can RENT the house like a hotel, or the Bumpus’ house next door.  We really enjoyed Cleveland and its not 100% off the table as a future possibility.

LEGOLAND NY- The RNYM Scoop

Posted on by Posted in Day Trips, Reviews, Things to Do!, Uncategorized .

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

We are not working with LEGOLAND NY but I do have an avid builder so we have season passes that we purchased two years ago like many of you when they had a deal that you basically would have been crazy not to take, for the price of approximately one days admission, you were able to pre-purchase a season pass.  (A) is such a LEGO fan that I knew we would have to do it.  We figured we lived close enough, and parking was included, that it made sense.  We finally went this week for his 11th birthday, and here’s what we found.

(A) and his friend are about at the top of the age group that it will work for at 11.  After this year, there won’t be much for them to do or explore unless the park gets some additions.  That being said, we DID spend 6 hours there this week, and both boys were engaged and had a good time.

The park isn’t huge, which makes it perfect for a day trip.  The day we went (a Tuesday, that was overcast and sprinkling rain) it was super empty especially at opening.  That was by design, I didn’t want to wait on line forever.  I ALWAYS go at opening to these type of places because the rest of the world isn’t ready yet. For LEGOLAND that’s 10 am, but not everything was open and operating at that time.  Some of the food vendors were still closed, and some of the games were not operating.

When I take (E) back I will be better able to report on her age group (8) which is a little younger and may experience things differently.  This time both boys were 11 so I have a bit of an older take on the trip.  They wanted to start the day walking down the hill looking at the intricate models they had built (this I KNOW my 8 year old will care less about).  They marveled at how many bricks it must have taken for each one, asking me to take photos of ones they liked best, and trying the interactive aspects.  I am not sure if its growing pains as its so new, but the majority of the functions didn’t work, and there were control knobs missing.  They DID however have sanitization stations near each model which was nice because the boys (conditioned at this point to cleaning from the pandemic) would try something then use the station.

We then headed down to the pirate area where there are a few water rides.  The single rider ships were cool, and great for a little refresher, but the boys LOVED the bigger pirate ship where you can shoot the spectators, and have them shoot you back with water cannons.  I stayed off and let them soak me.  That was a real HOOT!

The climbing pirate ship was cute, but the boys weren’t interested, that’s what I think (E) will like, and those younger (say ages 4-9) so we passed that by and moved into LEGOCity.  At opening (10 am) not all the food or vending areas were open, again, I am aware that its not completely open at this time, but it does set a tempo.  The boys enjoyed getting their Drivers Licenses and putting out fires.  The coast guard ride was closed, unfortunately, which i could see the boys enjoying.  We didn’t attend the show (as a COVID precaution) but perhaps we would be interested in seeing it next time.  We did meet one employee at the fire station who was super happy and excited about making our time great- he was a stand out (I wish I had taken his name).

There are “carnival” type games strewn throughout the park, but I told the kids no.  It’s just not my favorite, but if you enjoy them plan on spending a little more time in each area.

I was saddened to see how few patrons paid attention to the CLEAR signs that said no climbing on the LEGO setups and nicely asked them to stay on the paths.  It is obvious that a lot of time and effort went into them, and it will be a shame to see it all ruined by people who don’t follow the rules.

Up the hill is the Castle and the Ninjago areas where I knew the boys would spend the majority of their time.  They had a good time on the dragon rollercoaster, and the tower climbing attraction, then made me buy swords and shields (Moms you feel me….. I know).  The dragon coaster photo was great so I purchased that.

In the Ninjago area there is another ride-on game that was super fun (I killed it, but didn’t rank for the week, I may have to practice).  There is another photo opportunity here.  The climbing area was closed, but there is another game in the corner where you have to run from cylinder to cylinder and tag the one of your color you can compete with friends on that was super fun.

When we first walked in, there was a list of  “shows” you can see.  We recalled that the boys wanted to attend Master Wu’s training.  There are no other signs throughout the park with the schedule, so when we asked personnel, we were shocked to find that they also didn’t know the times or places.  Perhaps another kink?  Either way, we did finally make it back for the show, but found quickly that it was not with Master Wu. This show was geared toward much younger kids.  They left after about 2 minutes.

At this point the boys were hungry so we decided to have a bite.  Each area of the park has different food available, so keep an eye out for what you may like.  We were disappointed to find that after choosing, we waited on a line for food in the Ninjago area. They were out of one of the selections (there were 3 options at this site before being out of the beef bowl- this happened elsewhere too) so we all got the Orange Chicken,  It came with a large scoop of rice, about 3 vegetables and some fried chicken balls in orange sauce.  It was OK (it’s theme park food I didn’t expect 5 stars), and again the only drink choices were a few soft drinks.

We wanted to get some dessert as well, so we headed back to something cool I had seen earlier.  Apple Fries- THIS IS A MUST.  I will rave about them and order them EVERY TIME I go.  They were so good, and you can even watch them make them through a window.  They do NOT however have the soft serve Ice Cream advertised at that location, and you cannot get a single scoop of ice cream there, which meant we had to walk elsewhere to find it.  Fine, we looked at it as burning some of the calories we were about to consume.  The vanilla and chocolate ice cream was good, but they colored the vanilla super yellow and it turned everyone’s mouths yellow, it was kind of gross.  I had been previously warned that some of the other flavors were not stellar so we stuck with classics.

We circled back to some of the rides we really enjoyed, before heading up to the building area in Bricktopia.  If you have ever been to the discovery center in Westchester, this area is exactly like the building you can do there, which made my guys happy.  They spent a good long time building race cars and competing.  It was luckily not crowded, and we sanitized WELL afterwards.  The change into a minifigure ride was cute, and has a neat photo that changes as you move it, but we didn’t get it because 2/3 of us were not looking at that part (LOL). It’s on my list for next time.

Last but of course not least is the GIANT LEGO Store.  We saved this for last as (A) had birthday money to spend and I didn’t want to carry LEGO around the park.  It has EVERYTHING you can think of (except one thing which I hope they add) and takes a while to check out.  They have the really neat ‘TV’ setups throughout the store where you can hold up your set and see it come to life (yes this was very fun).  The associates in here seemed very knowledgeable and friendly.

I forced the boys to ride the carousel (its a classic) which I know my 8 year old will enjoy, and then we headed home with our spoils.

OK I know this is getting long so I will give you some quick info to use.  

HELPFUL HINTS:

  • Bring a refillable water bottle there are stations everywhere and it sill save you $4.50 a bottle of water.  There are no other “healthy” drinks available for kids.
  • If you are a season pass holder, tell them when you purchase ANYTHING and show them your bar code, it saves you 10%.
  • They have refillable drink containers available but it seems to only be worth it if you plan to purchase 4 or more drinks throughout the day.
  • First photo purchased is like $17.99 after that its $5 per photo, but you have to show the initial receipt.
  • It’s a cashless park for now, so don’t go to the ATM, just bring a credit card.
  • APPLE FRIES ARE AMAZING ( you can find them on the way from LEGOCity to the Castle)- Don’t eat them all I am coming back.
  • I brought a small sling back backpack which was PERFECT.
  • Sunscreen on a sunny day, there isn’t a lot of shade.
  • Ask about food allergies at EACH station, they have books they can reference for you to be sure.
  • Try to go during the week as its less crowded, and early (10 am) you’ll have the run of the park. (This may change when the hotel opens as it opens options to visitors from further away).
  • Strollers are allowed, and I would suggest them for kids who are not good walkers as its somewhat hilly.
  • If your kiddos bring a mini-figure with them they can trade with staff throughout the park, which is fun.

The hotel opens next month and I am interested to see what they offer.  I haven’t found that they keep us informed all that well.  I KNOW my kids will love the themed rooms (a toss up in our house between the Ninjago and the Castle), but is there a pool? A restaurant or two we can choose from while there?  How about master builder classes, or events to sign up for?  I have SO MANY ideas but no one asks me ;o)  I would like to check it out for sure and report back.

Final notes:

I have heard a bit of negative feedback regarding the park, and remember this.  See it from your kids’ eyes.  Sometimes we compare to other things we know, and OUR parental expectations.  Kids have different thoughts (in fact, (A) and his friend were responsible for a lot of this review).  It’s smaller and definitely geared toward the younger crowd, I do wonder if there are plans for more.  The food is OK, they tried, it’s a theme park.  If your kid loves LEGO, go.  Its totally worth a day trip.  

Family Friendly Paint- Available at Wallauer Paint and Design

Posted on by Posted in Health and Wellness, In the Home, Items, Reviews, RNYM Savings!, RNYM's Picks, Rockland Babies, Rockland Real Estate .

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

When RNYD and I purchased our first home together, like most others, we didn’t know much about home renovation.  Newly “house poor” we didn’t know that there was a difference in paints. What we knew was that we needed clean looks, on a budget. Now 17 years later we certainly do.  Instead of looking at the instant price tag, we look at the quality of the paint, the products and at how well it lasts.

That last part is super IMPORTANT.  Our house gets USED.  What I mean by that is that we LIVE in our house.  Anything we do to it, or put in it, needs to be made to last, to withstand two active, energetic kids, as well as two active, energetic Labs.  Things that show wear and tear quickly have no place in our home.  If this sounds like you and after a year and a half of staring at your walls and you are ready for a change, this is for you.

This is a photo of my actual messy paint cans from my lake house reno this year (LOL).

The ONLY interior paint we purchase any more is Benjamin Moore Regal Select- which is available at Wallauer Paint and Design.  While a bit more expensive than your typical box store brand paints, it is well worth it.  The coverage of this paint is beyond compare.  It is a premium-quality, 100% acrylic paint and primer combined with excellent hide, spatter resistance, and seamless touch-ups. It offers exceptional flow and leveling for a smooth application, and quick dry time.  So what does that mean?  Less work with better results.

Here is a photo of the master bedroom at our lake house, this is a VERY bright color that we had to cover.  We chose to change it to grey.  
This was a fairly bold move. 

As if that wasn’t enough being that it will save you time if you do it yourself, and money if you are paying someone to apply it, there’s more.

  • Stain release technology that is easy to clean with less scrubbing (I can vouge for this, I am always cleaning my walls- two kids two labs).
  • Mildew resistant coating
  • Engineered with Gennex Color Technology (a proprietary system that includes-long lasting vibrant colors, consistent colors, and better coverage a few of the benefits).
    Did I mention it was beadboard?
    Also- this paint is safe enough for my kids to do the painting (YES!).

Here’s the other biggie.  Regal Select is a No VOC product.  This is important to us because we try to be environmentally friendly in everything we do (see our solar panels), but the health of our kids and our pets is number 1.  As stated on the Benjamin Moore website “VOCs are Volatile Organic Compounds. When it comes to paint, VOCs are often added for better open time and freeze-thaw resistance and are emitted as gasses from liquids that evaporate as paint dries. Certain VOCs are harmful when inhaled and may pose indoor air quality concerns.”

Why am I super concerned about this?  Well, I first became concerned about such things when pregnant, I followed ALL THE RULES- like a soldier.  I learned that the paint in a baby’s room should have No VOC back then.  Once I had them, it became a bigger deal, because my (E) has asthma, even more important.

Where can you learn more?  Wallauer Paint and Design in Nanuet (that’s the Rockland one but if you are reading this from elsewhere, check out their website for the closest one).  Not only do they have this fabulous paint, they offer design services for those like me who have an idea of what they want, but aren’t sure how to accomplish it.

Wallauer’s design staff is committed to quality and service providing our customers with the newest in color schemes and the latest in design products. They give their customers the one on one attention they deserve to use these services, call or go online to make a virtual appointment or in the convenience of your home. The design team listens to their clients ideas and needs to design space that reflects one’s personality creating a functional and comfortable environment.

Wallauer is truly a one stop shop design center providing their customers with all interior design and home décor needs to fit any budget.  Not just color consultations (although that is where I would have to start). They have a new line of custom-made simple drapery and a custom inspired cellular blind program that can match your wall colors.

Once you get started, they’ve also got all the tools you need to complete the job too since they are an ACE Hardware.

Here are some current specials to help you get started.  A Buy one Get one Free Paint sample, and $10 off at ACE to get the job moving.  If you are purchasing a new home, there is a special place on the site to click to register for a free color consultation, a free design session, and a new homeowner package!

Oh yeah, and here’s the finished bedroom :o)

Musicianship- A Lesson well Learned

Posted on by Posted in Classes, Classes for Kids, Opportunities, Out and about..., Photography, Reviews, RNYM's Picks, Things to Do!, Thoughts.. .

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

As you well know, (A) has been taking drum lessons with the New City School of Music for 4 years now.  He has blossomed into a great, versatile drummer.  He has been a full remote student since COVID hit, and we were so excited to report last month that in person performances are back.  Despite being able to learn online, and participate in virtual performances as well as performing for NYSSMA this spring, he has really missed having opportunities to showcase his talents live.  As mentioned in my previous article he has two opportunities upcoming to do so.  

The first was an outdoor recital this past weekend.  These organized performances (which happen twice a year) are free of charge to parents, family members and friends to attend.  Sam and the music school staff were able to book Zukor Park, and get the mobile bandstand stage for the students to perform on.  The usual performance space is indoors, and although it’s awesome, this was a really nice opportunity.  He hasn’t played live outdoors yet.  As a musician it can pose a whole new set of obstacles to overcome.

Having been away from the scene for a year and a half, he was understandably nervous.  He was in the last group of the day (NCSM breaks performers into groups so you don’t have to be there all day, although you could if you wanted to) and when we arrived we learned that he was closing out the whole performance!  Super cool, especially since he always chooses something fun and upbeat.  I brought my good camera to snap some pics, intended for this article.

When it was his turn, (A) got settled on stage and arranged the kit the way he likes it and the music started.  He had difficulty hearing the music and missed his entrance.  For most kids, especially those with little experience it would have totally thrown them off.  For a moment I didn’t dare breathe, afraid that he might become embarrassed, stop, I am not even sure what I was afraid of.  I underestimated him. He simply listened, counted and jumped in.  You would never know.

At the end is where he really shocked me.  He was feeling it, and proud, he knew he overcame a huge moment.  He finished the song and threw his hands and sticks up in celebration.  All in attendance cheered and I snapped a quick (mediocre) photo.

He then came off stage and his sister so proud of him, threw herself around him in congratulations.  I missed it.  Know who didn’t miss it?  The professional photographer that NCSM hired to take photos of the day, (Latham Photography) at no charge to us students.  He captured all of it, and super well.  Two days after the performance we received our complimentary link to download the edited photos and I was floored.  Below are HIS photos of this awesome event.

Did I mention they even went around and took family photos? Here’s our group <3

Needless to say, I am one happy momma.  (A) has shown so much growth even in adversity, overcame a little blip in his first live performance in a year and a half, entertained the crowd and has set a new standard for his next performance.  Which will be at the ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME in Cleveland Ohio in August, another amazing opportunity afforded us by The New City School of Music.  I look forward to reporting back and updating you all on that experience as well. <3

If you are interested in hearing more about The New City School of Music and what they have to offer, give them a call.  We as always appreciate you mentioning you heard it here.  Their current promotion is as follows: 

It’s not too late to sign up for music lessons! *** July Music Special *** Get Free Registration and your 1st thirty minute lesson FREE if you enroll by July 6th!
Fight the Summer boredom and let’s make some music! Enroll by 8/1 and get Free Registration and your 1st thirty minute lesson FREE!
We teach Drum, Guitar, Piano, Violin, Voice, and Woodwinds to students of all ages. In person lessons ARE available! It’s super easy to sign up–just call/text us 845-499-2137 or send us an email at office@newcitymusicschool.com.