Reviews – Page 17 – Rockland NY Mom

WPPAC Presents Tarzan- REVIEW!

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

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

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

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

Amenities:

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

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

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

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

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

REVIEW:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BUY TICKETS:

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

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

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

Meet Sacred Skin Wellness

Posted on December 21, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Reviews, Services, Uncategorized .

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

As you may have seen, this past small business Saturday I went back to Sacred Skin Wellness for my second Hydra-Facial. Yep, I was so relaxed and had such a nice time that I returned for a second treatment, and have since made an appointment for a third. It was when making the third appointment that I realized that I had told you all about my great experience before introducing you to the women behind the experience.

Meet Ariana, Meri, Michelle, and Carrie. Three amazing women on a mission to help others. Yes, Sacred Skin Wellness is MUCH, MUCH more than just a ¨Facial, or a massage¨. If you come to Sacred Skin Wellness, expect to become a family member, because that’s how they treat you. You are never just another ¨client¨.

These ladies pride themselves on the connections that they make with their clients. They don simply perform a treatment, or providing a service, they address you as a person, a whole person. When they ask you how you are doing, they really want to know, but not only because it may play a part in your breakout, or muscle spasm, because they care. They form REAL relationships, remember your children’s names, ask how that big meeting went. They become and important part of your support system. In fact, they care so much, that if they can address your needs, they use their network to help you to connect with someone who can. They accomplish this seamlessly and without being overpowering or pushy.

At a basic level, Sacred Skin Wellness believes that self-care is the most beautiful gift of love. Truer words have never been spoken. How can we care for others if we are not properly caring for ourselves? As mothers, fathers, siblings, friends, we all provide care for one another in some way. Therefore, their services are not only for mothers or parents. They ¨service¨ both males and females, from the teen years through mature adulthood. The lessons of self-care are consequently modeled by their older clients, and taught early on for their younger clients.

Ariana, Michele, Meri, and Carrie work as a team, they create and provide a safe place to go for various treatments. In fact, being a bit off the beaten path is very nice as far as the calm and quiet atmosphere they have created. There are no busy streets filled with shoppers or onlookers who see you walking in for a facial, color therapy session, chakkra balancing, Massage or any other service they provide. I resist the urge to continue naming their unending list of services, because they do not seem to come to an end. They even create custom treatments for you depending on your needs. For a greater more detailed list of services visit their website at: http://www.sacredskinwellness.com/

Each of the women at Sacred Skin Wellness brings something special to the table, I would love to go into more detail on each, but this article would never end, so I will break this post down into a series of articles. I will introduce you to each one at a different time, highlighting their strengths, and backgrounds.

Sacred Skin Wellness has a whole website full of great services, but here are some we recommend for the holidays (well all year really).

Special Holiday Gift Certificate Ideas

Santa Trolley- Review

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

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

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

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

Meet Aunt Shelby

So here is our experience at the Shoreline Trolley Museum.

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Royal Christmas Spectacular- REVIEW!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Photo Courtesy of Butterfly Kisses Photography)

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

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

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

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

Christmas Lights and Family Time at Boscobel Sparkle- REVIEW!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5–9 pm

Fridays, December 4, 11 & 18

Saturdays, December 5, 12 & 19

To Purchase Tickets CLICK HERE

Friday, December 11

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

Saturday, December 12

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

Friday, December 18

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

Saturday, December 19

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

Meet “Marvin” #myelfisgood

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

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

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

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

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

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

Events:

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

Cut your Own Tree!!! – This link is a list of great places you can go and cut your own tree. Many places have special attractions and activities as well! We just did our Holiday Photos with Kennedy Grace Photography at Emmerich Tree Farm in Warwick – Super Cute. We also have plans this season to visit Battenfield for their Sleigh rides and more! #RocklandNYMomTreeTime2015

Holiday Photos! This year we were lucky enough to have photos done with Kennedy Grace this year!!! Stay tuned there are more awesome sessions coming!!!

The Royal Christmas Spectacular on December 6, 2015 features Captain Hook, Peter Pan, Elsa, Anna, Belle, Ariel, Mrs. Claus and Santa! Don’t miss this amazing event! $30 per adult, $35 per child. Family of four discounted package available! www.glamourpartyplanner.com/store for ticket information!

Books

Movies

Give Backs (Missions from Santa)

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

Activities (Crafts etc.)

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

Past Trips

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

Gifts

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

RNYM 2015 Holiday Photos!

Posted on November 24, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Christmas 2015, Photography, Reviews, RNYM's Picks .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own. WE HAD TO SHARE OUR #ROCKLANDNYMOMTREETIME2015 PHOTOS WITH YOU!!!

ONCE a year I ask that RNYD take a family photo with me and the kids. Its tough for me too, I don’t really like the focus to be on me. This year we decided to do it at Christmas. Kate Garland of Kennedy Grace Photography was holding sessions at Emerich Tree Farm in Warwick and it was a perfect time. We also wanted to make sure our pup (Duncan) could be there, so the outdoor session was PERFECTION!

One of the things I love about Kate is that she always has great ideas for places to take photos. This tree farm was so perfect, I couldn’t have asked for anything better. The kids got to fun around and be themselves, and so did Duncan. It was beautiful and relaxing for the whole family.

I will let these do the talking:

Due to the popular demand of her sessions at the tree farm, she was forced to add 5 sessions last weekend. Now that those are over and people have seen them, they have asked for more. Here she goes. Kate has added new sessions Called “Holidays at Home“. These sessions will focus on how your family prepares. She will come and take photos of your family decorating the tree, making cookies, wrapping presents, putting up lights, dining around the table.. whatever you would like. These #lifestyle sessions promise to be special, memorable and really document your family dynamic. Check out her Webpage for more info http://www.kennedygracephotography.com/

Mornings On the Farm

Posted on November 16, 2015 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Classes, Classes for Kids, Crafts, Crafts and More Crafts, Day Trips, Day Trips, Reviews .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are those of Ashley our writer.

Circle on the farm is located right off 303 on Greenbush road (behind the old U-Delco) on the property of Bell-Ans Farm.

I was graciously invited by Rachael to join her for ‘Mornings on the Farm.’ A 2 ½ hour ‘class’ (I hesitate to call it a class) of creativity and exploration for kids and their parents/caregiver. Of course, my first thought its 2 ½ hours?! How will the boys be focused for that long?

Rachael works and volunteers in Recreational and Creative Arts Therapy. She studied Fine Art and is working towards her Masters in Creative Arts Therapy. She believes that busy hands lead to an open heart and and open mind. She is UNBELIEVABLE. Her patience, and warmth is something special. She welcomes you into the studio with such warmth and true joy to have you there for the morning.

We arrived on time to a welcoming smile from Rachael. The studio is full of wonderfully mismatched chairs and colors, that all seems to match. She instantly encouraged (W) and (S) to explore to their liking and offered me coffee, tea and water to enjoy while I sat on the couch waiting for others to arrive. There is an adorable play nook set up under the staircase with basic blocks, toy kitchen and a few trucks that instantly drew the boys in.

As the other families trickled in conversation was easily made and everyone was so happy to meet each other. It was a first class for many, so it was nice to experience the class amongst other first timers.

Racheal began to set up the art project. Our project for the day was making a Stand Glass Window frame to hang. She explained several different ideas how to complete the project, but ultimately it was a free for all. She encouraged the kids to participate, but did not force. If the children were un-inspired with the project, they were free to play and roam about the studio while the parents created.

She came over to the boys and poured glue all over a glass 8×11 frame. She then let the boys choose colors and dropped dots of food coloring in the glue, gave the boys popsicle sticks and let them create as they pleased. The boys had a blast swirling the colors, and making a wonderful mess. She also had plates of beads to add to the glue if they wanted. The boys finished and moved back to the play nook again.

The kids would again start to wander back to the table interested in what the adults and other kids were up to. She could see the interest peaking in those little minds, and offered another project of painting – paper, mason jars, tiles. She was full of fun ideas! There was never a moment of “let’s stop and clean up” or “Don’t do it that way”, Rachael watched the project flow letting the children and adults create as they felt inspired.

(S) working hard on his stained glass. Choosing the perfect stones to add.

As everyone finished their glass, and paintings she offered to make snack! Fresh popped popcorn and delicious berry smoothies. Two of the boys favorites!

(W) enjoying his smoothie!

Rachael saw those little legs getting antsy so she grabbed a bucket of birdseed, a head of lettuce and we headed out for a walk around the farm. The kids got to feed the chickens, peacocks, guinea foul, pigs and goats! The morning wrapped with a fun game of ring around the rosy on the large lawn of the farm. I couldn’t believe it was already time to go!

(W) Feeding the goats.

The boys insisted on hanging their beautiful projects in their playroom so everyone who comes over to play can see them!

Mornings on the Farm is unlike any other “mommy and me class” I have experienced. The mood is calm, and free flowing. The ‘class’ was relaxing, as if I were at a playdate at a friends house.
The boys and I are BEYOND excited to visit another morning.

Rachael along with her partners Jayme and Lauren created this amazing space for creativity and growth at Circle on the Farm with offerings not only for children, but for adults as well, yeah we will go check that out too ;o). Please check out CirlceontheFarm.com or their Facebook page for upcoming events.

https://www.facebook.com/circleonthefarm/?fref=ts

Check here for the schedule of their offerings.
http://www.circleonthefarm.com/#!calendar/c22g5

Use the Force- This Weekend- LEGOLAND Westchester Discovery Center!!!

Posted on November 13, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Day Trips, Opportunities, Out and about..., Reviews .

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

May the Force Be With You at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester for

LEGO® Star Wars™ Days on November 14-15, 2015

[Yonkers, NY – November 9, 2015] – Experience LEGO® Star Wars™ Days at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester on November 14-15, 2015.

“LEGO® Star Wars™ Days will feature exciting LEGO® activities guaranteed to bring the spirit of one of the most beloved film series of all time to our very own LEGOLAND® Discovery Center,” said Chris Mines, General Manager of LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester.

The weekend will feature fun-filled LEGO Star Wars™ build activities for all ages including LEGO® Star Wars™ build competitions, a LEGO® Star Wars™ themed Master Builder Academy and a large scale LEGO® Darth Vader™ group build.

All activities taking place during LEGO® Star Wars™ Days are included in the price of admission to LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester. Annual pass holders will be invited to attend an exclusive preview event prior to the general public on Friday, November 13, 2015 from 4pm to 9pm (last admission at 7pm).

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center is the ultimate indoor LEGO playground featuring more than 3 million LEGO® bricks, geared towards families with children aged 3-10. Its range of educational and interactive attractions include hands-on play areas, a 4D cinema, the Master Builder Academy, two LEGO® amusement rides, special party rooms and MINILAND — the venue’s signature re-creation of landmark locations and buildings throughout New York City, made entirely out of more than 1 million LEGO® bricks. Advance tickets and annual passes to LEGOLAND® Discovery Center are available online. Additionally, visitors dressed as their favorite Star Wars™ characters will receive a $3 discount on walk-up admission all weekend.

Check in on our social media tonight to see our experience!!!!

Sacred Skin- Review!

Posted on October 26, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Reviews, RNYM Savings!, RNYM's Picks, Services, Specialty Items .

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

Parents make a lot of sacrifices for their kids. Sometimes I think too much. I am guilty, we are all guilty. We don’t spend enough time on ourselves. When I was a kid, (oh my I sound like my mother) parents had parties downstairs while you slept upstairs. They went out to dinner and a movie. I can count on my hands the number of times since (A) was born that RNYD and I did that.

This year I have actively tried to make a change. I am spending more time on things I enjoy, that make me a happier momma. Not to say that I don’t enjoy my kids, because I do, every second. I adore them (I would think that was quite obvious from the site), but I CANNOT be the best mom I can be without taking care of myself too.

I am taking baby steps, one thing at a time. First I started exercising again, and I am loving it (read our full review). I felt terribly at first about the time spent away from the kids, but I have found ways to go while they are asleep (6 am or 7:30 pm). I have lost 25 lbs and have more energy and am happier, which makes our time together so much better.

While at kickboxing I met Carrie, an esthetician who is part of Sacred Skin Wellness of Nyack. At Fitness Kickboxing it’s a real family atmosphere so we talk about everything. Carrie knew about my facial woes. One night I was getting ready for bed and had a particularly terrible flair up, and I reached out to her for help. She was at class the next day with a new facial regimen for me. Then she said she wanted to set me up with a facial Treatment.

My original reaction was no way. I can’t. It’s time away from the kids (during their waking hours), its money spent on me and not them. I couldn’t possibly. RNYD urged me to go, he understands my struggle and wanted me to take the time for myself. So I went.

Located in an unassuming, adorable house in Upper Nyack Sacred Skin Wellness hides nestled in a back entrance. From the outside you would never know that there was a sanctuary inside. At first I was a little worried that I was in the wrong place, but it’s perfect. You aren’t in a “town” and you can really relax. It’s not a huge assembly line SPA it’s a personal experience. You and your esthetician are the only people in there. You are safe to speak about your facial issues (or otherwise should you use one of their other available services).

We discussed my facial issues and dermatological history then came up with an action plan. I would have the HydraFacial treatment that focused on blemishes. A HydraFacial is a newer type of facial and it’s not available everywhere. Only a few places have it, Sacred Skin Wellness is one such place.

It starts out similarly to other facials with some essential oils (which can be personalized for you) and prepping. The warm table was very comfortable (I fell asleep 3 times during this process and I don’t sit still well). Then Carrie really got into the process. The HydraFacial itself can only be described as “Powerwashing” my face. It sounds very odd and felt a little different, but the end result was amazing. Before we got really deeply into it Carrie tried it on my face to let me know what it felt like. As the tip of the machine is brushed across your face, it gently exfoliates and removes impurities (it actually sucks them into the wand (I looked at the collection container at the end, not pretty). After a moment or two I was used to the feeling, and was drifting off to dreamland.

The first stage cleaned and exfoliated, the second was an acid peel (super gentle, don’t let the name scare you).

In between stages, Carrie worked on my existing blemishes used more oils and pampered me away. She then went back over my face with some hydration that nourishes and protects the face. At the conclusion of the facial she gave me a FABULOUS scalp massage. I never wanted to get up.

We took some pictures of my face before and after but it doesn’t do justice to the actual transformation. My face is brighter, and my blemishes less. The biggest change, is that my face is so smooth I can barely stop touching it. It doesn’t feel like my face. As the days pass (it’s been 8) my face isn’t dulling, it is still glowing and smooth. I am continuing with the skincare system that she prescribed and am very happy with my progress. So much so that I have already booked my second session (in 6 weeks) to continue to heal and rejuvenate my skin. I made sure to book it fast because I’m afraid that once the word is out I won’t be able to get an appointment!!!

HydraFacials can be completed on a lunch break too, so you can use time that you might already be away from your children, and it didn’t leave me red and not wanting to be in public.

The final thought that Carrie left me with before I was on my way.. Nailed it.

What’s even better? Sacred skin is a team of estheticians who can perform HydraFacials, so you won’t miss out. Additionally, they are offering a special this fall, 15% off any HydraFacial Treatment, they are recommended for sun damage, wrinkles, redness, blemishes, AND oily skin. Use the coupon code AUTUMN2015 to redeem.

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