Reviews – Page 25 – Rockland NY Mom

Out of Time…

Posted on July 29, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Reviews, Specialty Items, Thoughts.., We're Having a Party .

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

I am very type A (in case you hadn’t figured that out yet). I like to do things, lots of things, and all on my own. There are times that I have bitten off more than I can chew and still somehow pull everything off. There are times that I have to leave something by the waist side and the only person that it matters to is me, because no one ever even knew that it was supposed to have been done.

I am never more crazed than during the end of the year. Not only am I a teacher who has final exams and paperwork and meetings to complete, but both of my children are born at this time. Exactly seven days apart. I will go into more detail on my crazy planning stages and the things that I have done for them this year in a later post, but this one is specifically about (E)’s highchair.

One thing you may want to know about me is that I also love old stuff… well sturdy stuff… I constantly search for old furniture, they just don’t make it like they used to. I prefer to buy old and refurbish than waste money on new (unless is upholstered, that makes me a little nervous). My favorite pieces are those that I have found and given new life to, even when it took me several months to find the right drawer pull to match a set I had…. But I digress…

I had two highchairs, one Graco one that matched my other baby stuff and also a wooden Eddie Bauer chair that was a hand me down from a friend. I used one in the kitchen and one in the dining room. With the addition of another child though I had to put the leaf into my kitchen table and all of the sudden the Graco one was too big for the space. Glad to remove some stuff (crap) from my house I sold the highchair and made some room by replacing it with the Eddie Bauer one which is sturdier and has a much smaller footprint… The only problem was that I never liked the color of the chair being a light wood, it did not coordinate with my kitchen décor.

A before picture, see the test strip, that’s when I chickened out…

So, being the type of person that I am I purchased some chalk paint and decided to paint it myself. I did a test strip one night, but then I ran out of time to work on it. Well, next thing you know I am two weeks away from (E)’s first birthday party and she has a partially painted high chair for her first birthday party. UNACCEPTABLE! I had no idea what to do and since (A)’s birthday was before hers I knew I didn’t have enough time to paint it, even as crazy as I am. So I did what any good manager would do, I outsourced.

I have been a big supporter of Underground Finds & Furniture because I really don’t think that they make furniture the way that they used to anymore. I hate walking into a furniture store and feeling like a strong wind will knock down a dresser. I love the old lines of pieces even if I don’t love the finish. I have so many older pieces in my home, which I have repurposed in one way or another (in fact just this week I got in trouble at the local Habitat for Humanity Restore where you can find old sturdy furniture that others donated). That is exactly what Mary does. She takes old pieces and gives them new life.

Knowing that I wanted a distressed finish for this piece I called Mary and got a quote for having it painted white, with some dark distressing ( I love that old world shabby chic look, which of course just happens to be the theme for the first birthday party). The price was so much more than reasonable so I agreed to have it done. Mary had it painted and back to me within 3 days and it’s beautiful! It is exactly what I had envisioned when I first set out and purchased chalk paint. Mary painted it and tried out some of the distressing and then sent me some pictures for approval. At first she and I decided that it needed a little less dark wax (there is a fine line between distressed and dirty looking) but after she tweaked the recipe it came out amazing! I am so glad that I didn’t try to do it myself, because I am not sure that I had the time or patience to get it looking just so! It coordinates so nicely with my kitchen and also my party theme (see pictures).

A close up of the craftsmanship. I absolutely love this aged look (if you aren’t a fan, Mary has clear wax as well).

Here is the chair with the custom new cover that I ordered from Etsy (sewingsillysister).

The side view of the chair.

A picture of the chair in action, from (E)’s birthday bash.

Overall I am so very pleased with the whole process. Mary was so sweet with tons of communication. She made sure it was exactly what I was thinking of. It was done in a super timely fashion (thank goodness because I didn’t have a chair for her birthday unless it was!). It is also well done. You can see the time and effort that Mary put into the chair with each stroke or brilliantly placed waxing. I love it and I highly recommend her services.

Have an old piece that you love, but it doesn’t go with your décor? Looking for something special and having difficulty finding it? Contact Mary at : mdm441@gmail.com or on her facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/UNDERGROUNDfurniture.

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!

First Birthday Photo-Fun!

Posted on July 22, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Photo Obsessed, Reviews .

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

I told you to stay tuned and there is a good reason. During our session we did so many different and fun things that while writing I decided each one deserved its own mini-post…

After the “One Year Later” pictures we moved on to some of the more traditional photos… (E) in the custom dress that I ordered just for her first birthday, along with the matching hat. In a balloon basket, with the letters for ONE, with her favorite stuffed animal, and also on her own… These are fantastic…

(E) in the “Hot-air Balloon” basket.

(E) with the word “ONE” and no hat.

(E) sitting and displaying her beautiful custom dress.

(E) and her favorite stuffed animal “Bunny”.

Want to see more of (E)’s First Birthday Photo-Shoot? Stay tuned!! To view the first post about this session and see the photos CLICK HERE !

To contact Jen at Honeybee Photography NY check out her website www.honeybeephotographyny.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/HoneyBee-Photography-NY/628693593813915?fref=ts

One Year Later…

Posted on July 17, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Photo Obsessed, Reviews .

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

I knew that I was going to do a photo shoot for (E)’s first birthday, it was a must especially for a photoaholic (is that even a word??) like me… I contacted Jen at Honeybee Photography NY a month and a half ahead of time. I loved what she had done for my spring photos of the kids (click here to see) and was eager to work with her again. Please bear with me as I had a difficult time choosing which pictures to include… so I be posting a lot of them…

I started Pinning ideas immediately and I have to give it to Jen, not only was she open to pretty much anything, she loved the ideas and captured all of them beautifully. Smash cake, check. Sibling photos, check. Photos with the word one, check. Basket and balloon, check. Single photos of each kid, check. Then two that were super special to me. In fact, God Bless poor Jen. I emailed her photo samples of what I was thinking, made my own props, and had 4 outfit changes for my daughter, including hair…. Jen took it all in stride, went with it and even took pictures I didn’t know about.

If you’ve read my long winded photography page, or have liked us on Facebook, you have seen my birth announcement photo of the two kids. It’s (A) reading a book (Vadar’s Little Princess) to (E), as she sleeps outside in a doll bed, wearing a ruffle jumper and crown. The caption for the picture was “Sometimes being a sister is better than being a Princess.” I LOVE that picture. So when I started brainstorming interesting ideas for the photo-shoot I thought, how fun would it be to have an updated version? Same props, a year later… Well how glad am I that we did?? I love these pictures. (E) is wearing the same exact outfit, the book is there, it’s in the same spot in my yard… it’s all there, but now it shows a different relationship between the kids. Before it was brother reading to baby, now its friends having fun…. A real treasure for us….

July 2013- Our Newborn Sibling Photo-shoot

2014 Updates which I adore!!!

I just love how this one shows how in love with my goofy (A) (E) is…

A solo Princess shot of (E) from 2013.

My Princess one year later, same outfit, same location.

Want to see more of (E)’s First Birthday Photo-Shoot? Stay tuned!!

To contact Jen at Honeybee Photography NY check out her website www.honeybeephotographyny.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/HoneyBee-Photography-NY/628693593813915?fref=ts

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.

Art Class Really is an ADVENTURE!

Posted on April 11, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes for Kids, Out and about..., Reviews, We're Having a Party .

Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post, (A) and I attended a free trial, which is available to all. All opinions expressed are my own.

(A) and I had the extreme pleasure of checking out a class at Art Adventure on Saturday Morning. What an awesome experience! I have been looking for an art class to take (A) to for quite some time. I was very excited at the idea of the studio. My expectations were far surpassed by what my son and I experienced! Art Adventure offers children’s classes, as well as classes for older kids, parents’ night out opportunities, “sip and paint” for grown-ups and also birthday parties. It’s safe to say they offer it all. The thing is, they aren’t just doing “activities” with your kids. They are really teaching them bits of art at each turn. Oh my, the fun they had while doing it! There is a freedom at Art Adventure, a great safe feeling, children are encouraged to try and create, with few limitations.

As someone who spends insane amounts of time researching and “Pinning” crafts to do with children, there are many that I have wanted to try, but have not because I cannot fathom taking care of the mess afterwards. Here was an opportunity to do all of those things, and not pay the price at the end!! Even though parents stayed, there wasn’t really much for us to do. The kids who take the class often knew the drill, and newcomers fit right in. The class that we attended had 12 students in attendance varying in age from about 2-4, each accompanied by an adult. There was still plenty of room, even with a few strollers. Upon arrival there were 8 stations set up around the room for the students to experience. The theme of the day was “Secondary Colors”. I didn’t even know what these were until after class (purple, green, and orange). Long-sleeved smocks are provided (if you have ever had a child come home from school wearing paint you are very happy about this), or you can bring your own. Eric Stormes (certified art teacher with extensive background) and Super Eileen (who disclosed that she was also a super hero after (A) introduced himself as one), jumped right in with the secondary color explanation and the students were off. All students began at the same station, where they painted tape-resist color fields’ art. Each student had a paper that was pre-taped for them in different shapes, no two were the same.

After the initial painting there were several different stations to visit, all with the same color scheme, but using various different tactile mediums. The kids were allowed to move freely, at their own pace and experience each of the stations. The teachers floated around the room helping the students, refilling supplies when needed, and asking questions of them about their projects. Names were written on art pieces and put aside to dry for later, and then we hit the fun mother-load. The last station that the kids all participate in was by far the most fun I have seen kids have in a long time. They got to smear secondary colored shaving cream all over a table, and then of course on themselves. It was no-holds-barred entertainment for both adults and children. Their joy was genuine. Definitely not something I would have let (A) do at home, but I am sure glad that I got to see him do it.

Cleanup was easy, with a large wash basin and a step stool readily accessible. (A) was sad to go, I had to convince him that everyone was leaving (although no one was pushing us out the door). I have to admit that I kept trying to clean up and had to be told that I did not have to several times. I felt extremely guilty that I came, made a mess, and was leaving it. It was kind of nice though. He was even able to repeat to me what secondary colors were on the way home (I guess he really was listening).

I would not hesitate to recommend Art Adventure to anyone. It was clean, fun, educational and safe. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. The kids had a blast and still took away a little bit of learning in addition to their new masterpieces which (A) was very proud of.

Super Eileen helps (A) put on his smock.

Eric shows (A) how to paint fields’ resist.

(A) balloon paints at another station.

(A) and some classmates work in the free paint area with different textured rollers.

GLOOP! This stuff is so cool!!! It is a liquid until you touch it then it turns into a solid!

Eric brings the fun up to a whole new level with shaving cream!

No holds-barred fun, they were loving it!

For more information on Art Adventure and the classes that they offer visit their webpage: http://www.artadventureny.com/ and like them on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/artadventureny1

Sifu Says…

Posted on March 14, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes for Kids, Out and about..., Reviews, Uncategorized .

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

If you are looking to teach your children respect (earning and giving), leadership, perseverance, patience, concentration, and conflict resolution, then go visit The Fire Mountain School in Nyack, NY. If on the other hand you are looking for street fighting, trophies or fight to the death tactics this is probably not the place for you.

I took (A) to a mixed age Kung Fu class and was amazed by what I saw there. As I had previously mentioned, (D) and I were very interested in Martial Arts for (A), so the whole family came along.

When we first walked into The Fire Mountain School we were greeted by Ed the school owner and Sifu. (A) asked to step on the mat and was given the ok. Sifu proceeded to show (A) where his spot was on the mat for the class, it was marked with a piece of tape. (A) immediately took responsibility for that spot, happy to have a place that was “his”. As the other students began to arrive I was a little nervous. (A) was the youngest one there by about two years, the oldest was 6 years his senior, how would he fare? Let me lay to rest any concern from this point on. Sifu began by letting me know that at (A)’s age it is difficult to concentrate for lengthy periods of time, and that he doesn’t push them. That he would try to encourage him to participate, but that it was important for him to jump in when he felt comfortable and ready. I was really glad to hear this, it’s the same philosophy I take with my super young soccer players. Don’t push, make it fun, and let them find their way.

The older students accepted (A) as one of them and took on the chore of role model happily. They showed him how to begin class and spoke to him as an equal. Class began and (A) followed along. He did pretty well I think, he tried to keep up and watched his older classmates intently. There were times when he ran off of lost focus, Sifu, kept class moving along and invited (A) back in when the time was right. He even used (A)’s running around as a tool for helping the other students remain focused.

Sifu speaks softly, and with authority. The students want to learn from him, they appreciate his praise, this is clear. Sifu Ed asks them about their days, about school, and asks if anyone has anything interesting going on over the weekend. His words are chosen carefully, and he is attentive to each student. I was on several occasions surprised and impressed by the little lessons he snuck in when the students were unaware. At one such time, a student was having some difficulty remembering the next motion in the progression. Another student wanted to jump in and help. During this time, of course, the student who was leading the sequence was getting flustered and wanted to give up. Sifu reminded the helper that part of being a good leader is also being a good listener, being patient, in addition to giving others the proper respect and time. This is how Sifu Ed goes about incorporating important life lessons into his half hour classes. Sifu had the leader go through the sequence in his mind. After a moment the young man was able to remember and recover beautifully. Sifu Ed then took time to reflect on the process. He stated that if you think calmly, and give yourself time (patience and perseverance) you can get through a difficult situation and recover. While Sifu speaks of these things the whole class stops and listens, and not because they have to. I have rarely seen young boys so calm, so captivated, including my 3 ½ year old. He wasn’t able to stay put for all of the lesson, but I am so glad that he experienced it.

The class wasn’t all JUST life lessons (if you can say just). There was lots of fun too. They worked on their Kung Fu sequences, and also had some silly fun. (A) was a HUGE fan of this part. The practiced going across the floor first as a frog, and then as a bear. The older boys were very impressed that (A) was able to do this. In between sequences, they also played “Sifu Says”, a concentration and listening activity cleverly disguised as a game. (A) was pretty much done at this time (attention span of a gnat and all) and Sifu Ed noticed. He stood behind (A) and helped him to listen and perform the activities.

(A) had a blast, (D) and I were impressed, (E) really thought that the frog hopping was amusing (seriously all smiles the whole time). This experience reinforced what we had previously thought, we like the messages and lessons that are taught in Martial Arts. We want them to be a part of our children’s lives. As (A) is currently aging out of one of the other classes he currently attends, we have already decided that this is one he will be picking up.

For more information on The Fire Mountain School visit their website at: www.thefiremountainschool.com and/or check them out on Facebook www.facebook.com/TheFireMountainSchool.

The Fire Mountain School is running a special for Readers of RNYM See Below!

(A) and the rest of the class stand ready on their spots.

Sifu helps (A) with his form as a classmate leads the sequence.

(A) and the class work on their sequence.

A little fun, frog jumps!

Sifu Says!

Sifu aids (A) in his concentration and direction following.

Doodlebells Specialized Gifts

Posted on March 8, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Crafts, Crafts and More Crafts, Reviews, Specialty Items, Uncategorized .

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

If you follow my ramblings you know a few things about me.

I have some super talented friends.
I love home-made crafty items.
I have great ideas but am not as talented as many of my friends.

One such talented friend is Malorie of Doodle Bells. I taught with Malorie for several years and we bonded immediately because of our love for crafts and meticulous attention to detail. When friends have children she would also always go out of her way to create something (often more than one thing) for them. Quilts, taggies, picture frames… You name it, she would make it. She made me a beautiful quilt, pillow and taggie for (A) when he was born. He is now 3.5 and he still uses two out of three of them. What has always been apparent is that Malorie’s attention to detail never wavered. She takes into consideration your personality, what your nursery is going to look like, and makes this masterpiece just for you. It’s thoughtful, beautiful, and well made.

I was not at all surprised when she finally made the decision to turn her hobby into a business. If anyone can do it she can. This is how Doodlebells was born. Through her Facebook www.facebook.com/doodlebells page and now her webpage www.doodlebells.com, Malorie is creating well-made custom items from pillowcase dresses, invitations, t-shirts, and tutu’s, to hooded towels, quilts, and taggies. Did I mention everything that she makes? Nope, it’s impossible. Every day I feel like I am seeing something new posted on Facebook. It wasn’t long before I had to order something (did I mention I love personalized items?).

So I ordered a personalized hooded towel for (A) and a pillowcase dress for (E). Well let me tell you how awesome the whole experience was. What is nice is that you can either choose from the items that she has already made, or you can create a custom order. For a control freak like me, the second option is perfect. But what is even better is that I can always see what she has on hand, and grab that up for a gift or something. Doodlebells also takes PayPal so that was very convenient for me. First, I let Malorie know what colors I was thinking for each, she sent me options and I got to choose everything. I wasn’t sure about the dress, so I showed her a picture of one that I loved that she had made previously. She went with the same color scheme as the previous dress, and then sent me a picture to be sure it was what I liked. For the towel, we chose green because (A) loves it. Then we had his name added, along with a truck, he loves trucks.

Once the items were completed I got a “teaser” posted on Facebook. I was so excited! They were just what I had asked for!!! I knew that when I received them I was going to be super happy, but I am even happier now that I actually have them in my possession. (A) was ecstatic to see his towel. He loves that his name is on it, he immediately started spelling out his name and tapping the letters. Followed of course by… “Mommy is that a big rig?!” He insisted on having a bath that night and trying it out.

What I love about the towel:

It’s made with real towel, so it’s absorbent, not like many novelty towels out there.
The hooded part is large enough for him to grow into.
I got to choose all of the design stuff.
The personalization is sewn on and will remain sturdy for my little guy throughout all of his tough wear and tear.
The personalization makes it easy to take on school trips, to a playdate, or camp. There is really no mistaking it.

Then there is the dress. (E) doesn’t talk yet but if she did she would be really excited. It’s adorable. In the colder weather I can throw on some leggings and a sleeved onesie, it’s attractive and easy to get on and off (especially during a diaper change). In the warmer months, it will be great to wear with just a diaper cover, and equally as cute. It’s well made just like the towel, all edges are finished off (with seams hidden), so much attention paid to detail. I am just amazed. I would suffice it to say that it was my first order from Doodlebells but will not be my last. I love what I ordered. If you are a friend or family member, I would not be surprised if a Christmas or Birthday gift came with a tag that has a cute little blue bug on it and the name Doodlebells. If it does, be excited, be very excited.

To see more of Malorie’s work please visit her website www.doodlebells.com or check her out on Facebook www.facebook.com/doodlebells where she often posts her finished products for viewing, or purchase.

(A) shows off his Truck Towel. He won’t let me wash it again, he insists on using it. I guess i’ll have to wash it during nap time.

(E) in her amazing dress, look how well it compliments her eyes!

A shot of the whole dress! So cute with underclothes, roomy enough for her to grow into and wear without undergarments this summer!!

She gets around in it just fine!! Cute and functional!!!

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