Category Archives: Reviews

Need an Extra Pair of helping hands?

Posted on by Posted in Childcare/Pre-School, Uncategorized .

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

Rockland county parents – Are you seeking a fresh new child care routine? Want to give your kids a fun and exciting experience – without the pressure to find that balance? Check out our blog post here to find out how hosting an au pair provides you with an extra set of helping hands when you need them the most!

Already hosting an au pair with another agency? Switch to Au Pair in America and save $500!

Contact local area community counselor of 30 years, Kaija Caldera at 845-634-7103 or kcaldera@aupairinameria.com or visit our website www.aupairinamerica.com for more information!

 

Graduation Photo Shoot with IC You Photography

Posted on by Posted in Photo Obsessed, Photography, Reviews, Uncategorized .

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post as IC You Photography is a directory member.  All opinions expressed are my own.

-by Cat the Intern

The time has finally come, and I could not be more excited! Since this is my college graduation year, I thought it would be really fun to do a photo shoot. I reached out to IC You Photography to help me out. Here is my experience!

 I usually am not one to do photo shoots I have only done one other one last year. But I thought to myself that this year is a big deal, and I want to make the most out of it. I had been talking with Isabella a few weeks before the photoshoot coming up with ideas to make this the best. We talked back and forth about different ideas, and what we would need to make this happen. I ended up bringing my friend to the shoot for moral support and to take some behind the scenes pictures.

 

I honestly have to say I never had so much fun before at a photo shoot. This was a shoot like no other, but enjoyed every minute! It took over 2 hours and turns out we got over 100 pictures which is so crazy but I’m happy (poor Isabella has to go through and edit those, I don’t envy her). During the shoot we would talk about ideas of what to do how to pose. But not only that we had conversations, and laughed. Isabella is an amazing human and so glad I had the opportunity to work with her. A lot of the shots we came up with on the spot but that’s what made the shoot so fun, and turned out some great pictures.

This photo shoot was really important to me because it it shows me that I did it! My college experience was not the most ideal, but I made it through. School isn’t my favorite thing to do.  It took a lot of grit and hard work to get to where I am.  These photos are a lot more than just graduation photos, they are memories for my family and I. A testimony to the fact that I was able to persevere and make it through despite great obstacles.

Thank you IC you Photography for making my photoshoot so much fun and making memories forever! This has been a great experience and I am so happy that I did it!

 

Nickel-O Farms- Review! #RNYMBucketList

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

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post as Nickel-O Farms is a directory member.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Pleased to be checking items off of our #RNYMBucketList this early in the year, here is installment 1.  Horseback riding.  Its a great skill, one I loved as a kid at camp, and my brother even pursued.  So excited that I was able to share it with my kids, that they weren’t scared (actually LOVED it), found a great place to go, and look forward to going again. 

RNYM recently had the pleasure to begin working with Nickel-O Farms. They have joined our camps directory, and became one of our spring/summer bucket list options as one thing my kiddos wanted to do was to learn how to ride a horse.  They always enjoy the “pony” rides at events we attend, but wanted something more.

Nickel-O has lessons, as well as scouting events, camp, and animals available for birthday parties. It is located right in West Nyack and Lisa (the owner) is more than sweet.

 

We headed over for a riding lesson with the kids and didn’t know what to expect. We had been told that long pants and boots or something with a hard sole would be best so that’s what we wore.  Safety is most important at Nickel-O so the first thing we did was get fitted for helmets.  Then we were brought over to Sara who introduced us to our horse for the day, Small Bear.

I thought that it would be a little lighter than it was but the kids were thrown right in (I’m glad) and (A) was taught how to walk Small Bear Bear right over to the stables. After a few pointers (A) was able to get right onto him.  I figured (having literally no background in riding other than the lessons we had at my sleep away camp when I was 10) that they would ride around a few times and they would get the hang of it but nope.  They did a ton!!!

After a few basic lessons on the reigns while going around the corral I was shocked that Sara started explaining to (A) how to steer Small Bear to do a zig zag through the cones. Without a lead line or anything!  It took him a few seconds to get the hang of it and he was doing it on his own!!!  I honestly would have been impressed if we stopped right there.  They had already blown my expectations away, but then Sara brought (A) and Small Bear into the adjoining corral.

There they worked on walking over obstacles, including cavaleties in the ground, and also a bridge. THEN THEY GOT TO JOG!  This was the highlight of the experience if you ask (A) or (E).  They LOVED it!!!

When ½ hour was up (A) was instructed how to get off Small Bear ‘like a cowboy’ and came out all smiles. At this time (E) was heading in for her lesson.  Being 5 I assumed it would be drastically different.  NOPE!  She did all the SAME things that (A) had done (but with a lead line held by Sara).  She too enjoyed every moment, and Sara told us at the end that for most kids her age they would have only started with 15 minutes, but that she did so well that she got to do the whole ½ hour.  When it was completed she was instructed how to walk Small Bear back to the cross ties and hook him up.

At this point Sara told them a bit about how to care for a horse, and about how riding lessons are about more than just the “riding” it’s also caring for the horse, and having a relationship with them where they trust you. You have to take care of them.  The kids got to brush him a bit, and were given a lesson on the difference between the grooming tools.

At this time I pulled the kids aside to ask them a few questions about the experience (it’s really cool that they are old enough to do that now). Both reported that they would LOVE to do it again, or go for a trail ride in the future.  They also reported that they LOVED jogging, and recommend that others try it.

Nickel-O was a fabulous experience for my guys. They wanted terribly to learn more about horseback riding, and to do more than be led around a pony area.  This was the second item we were able to cross off of our #RNYMBucketlist.  If you are interested in going for a ride, camp, lessons, a scouting event, birthday party or anything else, please contact Lisa Owens at:

Nickel-O Farms
369 Strawtown Road, West Nyack, NY 10994, USA

Phone:     (845) 353-8006

​Fax:        (845) 348-8178

E-mail:    nickelo123@aol.com

As always we appreciate your mentioning that you read it here :o)

Upcoming Events or Programs:

CAMP

Our summer Riding Program is a one of a kind experience that kids of all ages come to enjoy.  We teach children how to take care of the horses and experience life at the barn 

– all while having a great time.  

 At Nickel-O – kids get to saddle up and ride every day,
​Friday mornings include a very special horse show.  

Enrollment is limited, so early registration is important.

$400 per week per rider
Tuesday – Friday

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Please send the registration form to

Lisa Owen/Nickel-O Farm
12 Old Mill Road, West Nyack, NY 10994.
Nickelo123@aol.com

8  Weeks Available!
Week 1    7/2-7/5
Week 2    7/9 – 7/12
Week 3    7/16 – 7/19
Week 4    7/23 – 7/26
Week 5    7/30 – 8/2
Week 6    8/6 – 8/9
Week 7    8/13 – 8/16
Week 8    8/20 – 8/23

Camp Spot Light- Day Camp in the Park

Posted on by Posted in Camps, Reviews, Uncategorized .

Since their start in 1979 Day Camp in the Park has served campers from NYC, Rockland County, Westchester County, Bergen County and Orange County. Located on 500+ acres on Lake Tiorati in Rockland County NY. This camp has provided traditional and fun camp experiences for their campers.

They offer camp for kids ages 4-13 year olds and the groups are split into categories; boys, girls and nursery. Each group is tailored to the age group needs and small group numbers. They have a number of activities taught by professionals and some of the activities include, swimming, softball, basketball, boating karate and gymnastics. They also offer soccer, tennis, skateboarding, arts & crafts, ceramics, wood working, archery, drama, and music.

There is an 8 week camp this summer starting on 7/1 and runs through 8/23. Registration form can be found here: https://daycampinthepark.com/registration-forms/

 

Camp Spotlight- ROCA

Posted on by Posted in Camps, Uncategorized .

Rockland Center for the Arts is a local camp located right here in Rockland County. This camp is a place where kids are able to explore their creativity and imagination. In doing so they develop skills they can bring back to the classroom as well as use in everyday life. Camp ROCA offers one of the regions most comprehensive art programs under the guidance of professional teaching artists, as well as educators. There is also very caring counselors, to help the kids learn and have fun! Campers are able to explore the arts in a supportive environment, also where they develop creative expression, group cooperation, personal development, confidence, and self esteem. This camp is located on 10 acres of woods and fully equipped with air conditioned studios. There is also a pool to have fun and cool of in! There is a 5:1 ratio for ages 5-9 and 7:1 ratio for ages 10-14. They offer programs such as: • Swimming (Instruction & Recreation)
• NEW! Gardening
• Art & Nature
• Painting & Drawing
• Ceramics
• NEW! Sculpture in the Park Program
• 3D Art
• Cartooning
• NEW! Yoga
• Theater Arts
• Dance & Movement
• Music
• Field Games

On April 7 they will be having a camp open house.

for more information and to sign up visit their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/rockland-center-for-the-arts/camp-roca-open-house/1026598377535479/

Contact Information:

Phone number: 845-358-0877

Email: INFO@ROCKLANDARTCENTER.ORG

Website:https://rocklandartcenter.org/roca/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoCA10994/

 

                                                                            

 

Pony Party at Sparkle Up Review

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

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as Sparkle Up is a directory member. All opinions express our are own.

– By Intern Catherine

 

Sparkle Up gives hair cuts and styles to both boys girls and even adults, and holds many events. Don’t forget to check out their Facebook page for upcoming events!

 

                                     Having some fun designing their own ponies  

Pony Party at Sparkle Up was the recent special event, girls and boys were able to decorate their own pony. Also get their hair done, nails painted and face paint. At this event we also had a couple boys who enjoyed getting cool hair- sparkle tattoes- pony decorating and having fun! 

Some very pretty and very handsome hair styles!

 

      

 

 

 

 

Painted nails and hair prep

At the end of the session we had a fun photo shoot where the kids got to show off their awesome hair styles and the pony they had decorated. Thanks to all the parents who let me capture the memories! I think these events are so fun because it is a day out and its really cool to see each Child’s personality through there hair style, and the activity that we do at the event. So for example it was really cool to see everyone’s creativity when they decorated their pony. What a fun day!

                                                 

        

Photo Shoot Session

Our Next Fun Events! For details visit our FB Page!!!

   https://www.facebook.com/events/347720799180621/

 

 

https://www.facebook.com/events/314346872604906/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 https://www.facebook.com/events/998052143726060/

 

Special things I planned before our big Disney Trip

Posted on by Posted in Out and about..., Photo Obsessed, Reviews, RNYM's Picks, Services, Travel, Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post.  All experiences are my own.  This article contains affiliate links.

I’ve loved Disney as long as I can remember.  My mother can attest to that.  Its no secret that our first family trip had to be epic (and i’m pretty sure the kids are hooked too).  There was lots of planning involved and I thought I’d give you a behind the scenes of some of the special things I did in addition to the trip to make it special.  Happy to answer questions if you have any <3

Nails

Little (E) ADORES having her nails done (yes I realize I’ve created a monster).  But for special occasions we indulge her.  Therefore the first thing we did when getting ready to fly out was to go have our nails done (toes too cause #Florida).  We always head over to Rainbow Nails in New City and have them done.  While I am sure that others in the area cater to kids, this one makes her feel like a #princess, and do the cutest designs for her.  I went with the Shellac so that they would be durable for the trip (worked like a charm).

New Fun Pajamas (Kept a secret)

(A) is a HUGE Dinosaur fan, and although there isn’t too much Dino stuff at Disney we went ahead and got him some Jurassic World ones cause he loves them.  (E) of course needed a princess so I got Belle as she didn’t own them yet (no I actually have no idea how).  I packed them right up into their bags so they didn’t see them until we got there.  It was a really sweet realization.  Now that we are home every time they put them on they remember the fun we had there and talk about it.

Photo Mat

You can get the Mat anywhere, I went to AC Moore- its an 11×14 mat with an 8×10 opening.  It fit into my standard book bag, and ended up being one of my all time favorite things.  The cast members used it for fun poses when signing with the kids, and its the absolute best memento on our wall at home.  The kids have planned to do it forever now (when we go to Disney or say Universal) to have a mat signed and frame a family photo of our adventure.  We also ordered this pack of Sharpies so that they could color coordinate each signature.

Pearl Cages

I had heard about this from my travel agent (Scott) and thought that my rock hunting two would love it.  So I ordered cages in advance one for each kiddo and we went when we traveled to Epcot.  We researched the night before in the hotel room how to get the best Pearl when you choose, to be prepared.  The kids ADORE them, and I am so very glad that we did it.  The choosing was fun, and they love wearing them- what a special keepsake.  Choosing a pearl is $18 and I didn’t want to spend too much on the settings so this was a great way to save a little.

Dragon

Mermaid

Park Clothing

I didn’t want matchy matchy- well kind of but RNYD REALLY didn’t.  So we went with “themes” at my sister in laws recommendation (shes keeping count and has now made the BLOG 6 times).  RNYD got t-shirts that were already made, and he would normally wear.  I got a few of those too.  (E) was easy She was a princess (Ariel) at MK, Chewie at HS and wore a twirly dress at AK and Epcot that I made myself.  I actually made sweatshirts and shirts for EPCOT for the whole family- not sure making its for you?  No problem- Marcie at MHC Creations would be the perfect gal for the job.  Her work is impeccable as is her pricing and her turn around time.

MHC Creations

Direct: (914) 645-5028

Email: Info@MHCCreations247.com

(A)’s wardrobe was more difficult.  At 8.5 years old he’s a little old for a prince costume.  So I made him a PPA (Princess Protection Agency shirt -Dad too).  For HS he “disneybounded” (dressing like characters without traditional costumes) as Han Solo thanks to this vest, and at AK he did the same as Owen from Jurassic World– yes I know he isn’t Disney, but the kid loves dinosaurs and maybe we’ll use it when we hit Universal too.

Disney Day 2
Disney Day 2
« ‹ of 9 › »

Purchased Items

Twirly Dress

Chewbacca Dress

Ariel Dress

Han Vest

Owen Vest

Meals

Go through all of the character meals in advance and see which ones are the BEST for your family.  Your travel agent can help you with that.  What I can tell you is that mine did NOT. I had to figure it all out myself.  In fact, when my son got sick at one of the parks and we needed to cancel a sit down meal and I was freaking out because I didn’t want to lose my credits and hadn’t researched enough to fix it, I reached out to Scott Walters a DIFFERENT agent who came to my rescue.  He cancelled my reservation and booked me an even BETTER one the next morning for our last breakfast.  We got to meet 4 characters we would have missed otherwise, and gained early access to Epcot that day.  It was FABULOUS- and that’s one reason why you will continually see me singing his praises.

Luggage

Got the kids their very own luggage so that they can use it every time we go on an adventure (or when they go to Nana’s).  This set came with “personal” bag as well so they were able to pack their activities for the flight in there, while their  carry on went in the overhead bin.  Its easy for them to maneuver and has held up well. We took it locally to have a little picture and monogram added.  Again, MHC could do this (I had done it before I met Marcie).

Kids Luggage

Most important is that there is SO much to do at Disney its a great idea to book with a knowledgeable agent.  I highly recommend Scott Walters.  He saved my butt a few times.  I freaked out on a few occasions when I felt lost and the agent that I had booked with fell a bit short.  I was disappointed in that.  Your agent should ask you about what you like and dislike far in advance, fight for you to get deals, make suggestions for you based on your family’s needs and be supportive.  When my son caught a cold and we had to cancel a sit down dinner, he booked us a character breakfast for the following morning (our last) in moments so that we didn’t waste the credits and still had the best experience ever.  He will be booking any future family trips for us, that’s for sure.

Scott Walters (845) 558-1225

scott@goawayoftentravel.com

http://www.goawayoftentravel.com

Communion Mini-Sessions

Posted on by Posted in Party, Photography, Reviews, RNYM's Picks .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post because these guys are our directory members.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Its COMMUNION time!!! Most local churches offer sessions with a photographer that they are affiliated with, but you can also do those outside of the church.  As you know, there are so many photographers out there, so we are offering you up some of our directory members who do Communion specific sessions (although all of our members would be happy to do them).  You might recognize the handsome guy on Jennifer Tesker’s as my (A).  He picked the location for his photos last year and they still make me cry.  Here’s the link to the review: CLICK HERE

While we are at it- don’t forget to book that hair and makeup for the big day.  Deb at Sparkle Up! books so fast, I’ve already reserved her for (E) who is still two years out.

A Photo-Obsessed Moms Guide to Disney

Posted on by Posted in Photo Obsessed, Photography, Reviews, Services, Uncategorized .

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post.  We just went, and I thought this information might be useful.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Although I won’t pretend I know EVERYTHING about Disney World Photos I recently took my children on our first ever trip and learned a lot.  I had researched quite a bit, picked the brain of a great travel agent and compiled a pretty good list for you all.  As all my readers know I am PHOTO OBSESSED.  I don’t really even know why, I love to fill my house with memories.  Love to look back on things we have done as a family the way my kids have grown, all of it.  Well of course, its no different when we head to an amazing trip like Disney, but here’s what I learned.

Buy the Memory Maker.  Yep its that simple actually.  You can see a photographer ANYWHERE, they scan your band and your photos end up on your MyDisney app and account on your PC.  This means MOMS (or primary photo takers) you can ACTUALLY be in the photos!!!  We got some absolute gems. and while asking someone to take your photo early on seems a little odd, I promise that by the time your trip is over you will spot those cast members from a mile away and your kids will be scanning their bands for the photos.  They have lots of experience capturing these special moments, they will do it better thank you will with a selfie or not being in the photo.  Also you get those hysterical ride photos where you are trying to hold your 5 year old in a rollercoaster (just me?).  You also aren’t stuck taking photos the whole time and can enjoy, like when (E) got to be Beast and (A) Maurice in Storytime with Belle, or Jedi training.



There are some special memory maker magic to keep in mind- if you are dressed the part, characters and photographers alike want to play with you more.  Its not really on purpose it just helps everyone get into the spirit.  In fact, Rey and Chewie who do not say hi to ANYONE, came over and acknowledged (A) and (E) since they were dressed as Han and Chewbacca.

Behind the castle there are photographers who will do special princess/prince photo shoots and even have “props” you can use.  You will NEVER get every photo so just relax and take advantage of what you stumble upon.  I won’t lie, we don’t have a great castle photo (I don’t even know how that happened) and we didn’t get to take the famous lantern pics, but despite that, we are ok :o)

There is also another photo shoot area at Disney Springs that is included in your memory maker- we didn’t know in advance so we didn’t take advantage, but its a great way to start your trip if you head there first <3





No need for your large camera, but bring SOMETHING.  Dining meet and greets may have photographers at the “big” character out front, but they will not take your photo with EACH character, so you need something (I suggest compact- my IPHONE XR was perfect).


Silhouettes.  I have loved silhouettes forever.  They are classic.  I made some of my kids when they were super young, and its something that Disney does REALLY WELL, affordably.  There are several locations, but we went to Disney Springs and did it our first night because I knew going into it that I wanted to do them.  It costs $10 per silhouette and comes with 2 copies.  Takes less than 5 minutes per child (so no sitting forever) and the ladies are LOVELY.  The frames which I splurged on are another $10 each.  I got 4 frames and the silhouettes and felt like I had won the lottery.  Can’t get there and dying to have some?  You can mail order them with the information below.  You can do both kids or a family etc. in one, but I liked them separate.


Creepy Photos.  Stumbled across these when I was “Pinning” Disney Vacation stuff and am SO IN LOVE. I am aware however that these may not be for everyone.  Next to the Haunted Mansion there is a souvenir shop called Momento Mori.  If you walk in all the way to the back you can ask for the creepy photos, or the ghost photos, they know what you mean.  You MUST do these alone, they don’t do family or group shots despite everyone asking.  These cost $20 per person, you sit for a moment and have another lovely conversation and about 5-10 minutes later you have a creepy photo of your child/spouse whoever.  We did just the kids and they are going to be my new Halloween Décor for above the fireplace.  They are 8×10 and so cool.  As you walk from side to side they change from normal photos to ghost photos.  In this case I didn’t love the picture frames that were available so I ordered two from AMAZON when I got home.  I LOVE them and was really sad to put them away in the Halloween box but I can’t wait to bring them out every year and look at them.

Affiliate link to Frames HERE

Photo Mat Autograph Collector. I knew we wanted to have something autographed, but I couldn’t get over the idea that a book would go on a shelf and not get revisited.  I wanted to make it something that the kids, RNYD and I would be able to see and enjoy all the time.  I decided to buy a generic photo mat to have them sign.  I also purchased a package of every color sharpies for them to use.  The kids loved this part because they got to pick and choose the color for each character, they really enjoyed this.  The characters also used it for some fun interaction everywhere we went.  That made a simple meet and greet a little more special.  I kept the markers in a plastic zip lock bag in the front pouch of my backpack, and the 11×14 mat in the back.  I won’t pretend that it stayed in perfect condition it has some bends and bruises but it looks fine.  Upon arrival home we put our FAVORITE memory maker photo of the four of us in it and put it up.  I figure if/when we return we can do it again with whatever characters they want to see then.  I think this would even work at Universal where I know my kids are looking forward to meeting a few heroes and characters (especially Scooby Doo!).


Are there more opportunities?  I am sure, I couldn’t do them all that’s as honest as it gets.  Also, it was our first trip, those who go more often would be able to tell you even more, but here’s what I learned.

All in all this trip was magic.  We created many memories that we can carry forever, and collected many souvenirs that we can use to recall them.  Several of which are photo related ;o) WAHOO!!

Most important is that there is SO much to do at Disney its a great idea to book with a knowledgeable agent.  I highly recommend Scott Walters.  He saved my butt a few times.  I freaked out on a few occasions when I felt lost and the agent that I had booked with fell a bit short.  I was disappointed in that.  Your agent should ask you about what you like and dislike far in advance, fight for you to get deals, make suggestions for you based on your family’s needs and be supportive.  When my son caught a cold and we had to cancel a sit down dinner, he booked us a character breakfast for the following morning (our last) in moments so that we didn’t waste the credits and still had the best experience ever.  He will be booking any future family trips for us, that’s for sure.

Scott Walters (845) 558-1225

scott@goawayoftentravel.com

http://www.goawayoftentravel.com

Doll and Me Style at Sparkle Up Review

Posted on by Posted in Classes, Day Trips, Events, Party, Reviews, Services, Uncategorized .

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post as Sparkle Up is a directory member.  All opinions expressed are our own. 

By: Intern Cat

Sparkle Up in New City holds kids parties, does hair cuts and style for both boys and girls (even grown ups), and holds many events. Don’t forget to check out their Facebook page for updates!

The Doll and me Style, was the recent event at Sparkle Up. Similar to American Girl Doll in NYC (but at a fraction of the cost), the girls got to bring their dolls and they both could get their hair done.

Nails were also a dolly and me experience.  Sparkle Up uses special nail polish on both girls and dolls that is safe for them.

The girls also got to dress up in fun costumes and got to get some awesome sparkle tattoos.

There was also a fun photo shoot where the kids got to show of their make over as well as their dolls. The event was really fun, and it was really awesome to see all the smiles. So thank you to all the moms and parents for giving me permission to take photos! It was a really fun afternoon to see the girls dress up and coordinate with their dolls

.

The next event for Sparkle Up! is…

Sunday 3/10/19 from 12-1:30 pm

Decorate a pony to take home, have your hair done “pretty Pony” style, paint your nails and have your face paint done too!! Cost $25 per child call 634-0140 to register!!