Services – Page 4 – Rockland NY Mom

Chris Kissik Painting and Construction to The Rescue!

Posted on February 8, 2016 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Reviews, RNYM Savings!, RNYM's Picks, Services, Uncategorized .

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

What do you do when your friend calls you with a Home Improvement DIY emergency? A friend who you have known for your whole life, one that you want to be happy? One who happens to be just as anal retentive as you are? You have to recommend someone that you can trust. Someone that you know will show up when called (that’s one of the biggest hurdles is it not?), who will treat their home like their very own. For me that person was Chris Kissik of Chris Kissik Painting and Construction.

Well, that is exactly what happened. One of my very best friends for years gave me a call in a panic. She had FINALLY been able to update her bathroom, things were coming along well, and then the shelf in the shower happened. It was crooked and spaced strangely and she was heartbroken.

Chris was part of the crew who worked on my bathroom a year and a half ago, and our paths have crossed multiple times. So when my friend called me with a tile emergency I knew just who to call.

I explained to Chris that we had a DIY 911 he was happy to go over and take a look, and ultimately fix the mistake.

He went over and calmed my friend down immediately. They made an appointment and she went to go and get the items that he needed. Here’s what I love… Some contractors would have walked in and then walked away. It wasn’t a large job, it was fixing a home DIY. There wasn’t a lot of money in it, and not a ton of glory in it. He didn’t give her a ridiculous quote because he didn’t “feel like” doing it, not once did he think, “this isn’t worth my time.’ He was her hero.

He fixed the shelf. Its perfect. I will tell you what, she will call him again and so will I. Chris is licensed in Rockland and isn’t afraid of a job no matter how large or how small. I have a laundry list of things he will be working on for me this summer ( I am sure he can’t wait).

I may kick myself for letting you all in on this great secret because he may end up being so busy that he can’t work for me anymore but you should know.

As an added bonus if you visit out Savings for RNYM Readers page you will see that mentioning our site also earns you a discount on his services.

Painting Sweet Dreams

Posted on January 11, 2016 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Crafts, Good Cause, Playroom Project, RNYM's Picks, Services, Specialty Items .

Disclosure: All opinions expressed are my own.

In our travels we came across Sabrina Crowley who makes the dreams of little children come true in their special spaces (bedroom, playroom). She is a muralist. In fact, she makes the dreams of grownups come true too. She can paint anything, and make it exactly what you imagined it could be. This is especially cool for people like me, I have awesome ideas, but was not blessed with artistic talent. Here is her story.

My name is Sabrina Crowley and I am a muralist. I just love what I do! There is nothing more exciting then seeing smiling faces on parents and children as they see their room come to life!

I became a muralist when I decided to leave my 15yr fashion design career behind to stay home with my young children, one of which has some severe health issues. It was time for me to be a full time mommy. I soon realized being creative was something I couldn’t live without. I started by painting murals in my children’s rooms, even my 4 year old helped!

I have been an artist all my life. I made my first pair of MC hammer pants in 6th grade, that sewing machine had me at hello. I spent time making crafts such as soaps and candles, quilts and more throughout my high school and college years. I worked many craft shows and street fairs. It was a lot of fun. I graduated from FIT and my fashion career took off. It was amazing, I worked for some really great companies and was really able to spread my creative wings.

Now I paint murals full time. Every room is different and every family has been amazing to work with.

The process is simple. We discuss what you are interested in and I make a trip to your house for a free consult. I sketch up and idea of what room will look like and we proceed from there. I try to accommodate as best I can, as I only paint 2 days a week. I spend about 10-12 hours on each room! I am in and out in two days and quiet as a mouse! You won’t know I’m there…so I’ve heard!

So if your looking to create a fun new space for your little one?

Here are some excellent examples of Sabrina’s work.

For more information, check out https://www.facebook.com/Sabrinasmurals/

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

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.

A New Talent (or Addiction..)

Posted on August 19, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Crafts, Crafts and More Crafts, Reviews, Services, Specialty Items .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as I was invited to a class with Underground Finds & Furniture. All opinions expressed are my own.

You may recall that almost a year ago, I started painting (E)’s highchair and gave up sure that I wouldn’t be able to get it right. At that time Mary of Underground Finds & Furniture came to my rescue and painted it for me at a super reasonable rate (click here). Mary not only paints your requests, she looks for interesting pieces to paint for you, sells the paint so that you can do it yourself, but also offers classes. Given our love for great sturdy and classic furniture we became fast friends. So much so that when I went and purchased some furniture for (E)’s bedroom (coming soon), I brought her with me. I intended to have her paint it for me (again convinced that I would fail), but she talked me into something a little different.

She wanted me to do it myself, but she said that she would teach me at one of her classes…. This is a big deal. Tackling an entire bedroom isn’t something that I was prepared for nor did I have the time, or so I thought.

The furniture I found for (E)’s room:

Purchased these three main pieces from a North Rockland Swap Site. These are the three I worked on at Mary’s workshop, the others I added afterwards because I am glutton for punishment ;o)

The nightstand I found that coordinated for FREE on the side of the road.

The bed frame we had sitting in the basement.

A New City Garage Sale purchase.

When we showed up for class Mary was all set for us with plenty of space to work, and every supply that we needed. Mary made sure that we had dusted and cleaned our pieces prior to our starting. Then we discussed our vision. I wanted to paint the furniture white, and then add a touch of pink to the details, all while keeping the style very shabby chic. I had seen Mary do this on a previous piece that I adored.

I was nervous about the workload (naturally) so I brought my mother with me. By the end of the day (yes the day) between my mother, Mary and Myself we were able to get two coats of paint on and some of the pink detailing done. Mary assured me that I was ready to complete the rest on my own. This was the part that I was so very nervous about. Most people complete their projects in the class time allotted so she is able to show them all of the steps involved. While I was there two other painters participated in the class. One completed an adorable gossip chair, and the other a lovely headboard for her daughter. (Usually Mary limits people to pieces that can be done in one class, in my case I was supposed to come back for another class, but our schedules didn’t mesh). Mary assured me that she would be available for any questions and even offered for me to come to her HOUSE and work if I needed to.

When Summer started I was finally able to work on my masterpieces. Although the paint is soft enough to wax straight after drying, I wanted a smoother finish, and some distressing (which Mary has a trick for, I chose to do it the HARD way). I used a fine sandpaper first, followed by a “SUPER-fine) sand paper. Once pleased with the distressing I used the wax that Mary provided to seal it all in. It feels as smooth as glass. I adore it. I had SEVERAL million questions and Mary was super quick to respond, and had ideas and hints for everything. For instance: I needed to find a matching drawer pull for a missing one on the set, she directed me to the right group!

I needed to add a little something to the bedframe to make it coordinate with the rest of the set so Mary suggested I get a wooden applique (you can find them at Home Depot, or Dykes Lumber). I affixed them with Loctite wood glue, painted and distressed. I LOVE THESE DETAILS!!

I worked for what seems like forever on these pieces but am so proud of the outcome. (E) even got in on it and learned how to sand (there is a video on our YouTube channel because OH MY GOSH its cute).

My finished products (you will get to see them in the room when her room is complete and I post).

Dressers

Mirror

Bedframe

Picture Frame (now awesome bow holder)

Special credit must be given to Auntie’s Crafts and More who helped me to create this awesome bow holder, and is also responsible for filling it up!

If you are interested in taking a class with Mary (count me in)! I already have so many ideas for new projects (and yes I will share). She is holding her next class on 9/26 from 12-3pm . You can follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, BLOG, or you can check out her website: http://www.undergroundfindsandfurniture.com/ .

Heart Strings…

Posted on August 5, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Reviews, Services, Specialty Items, Thoughts.., Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post. Sometimes good people do amazing things and just need to be recognized. All opinions expressed are my own.

Last fall little (E) need to have back surgery. It was a really hard time for us (and one we don’t speak of often). During the whole thing we were very honest with big brother (A). Right before she went into the hospital, (A) and I were shopping and he saw a cross at Piercing Pagoda that was (E) size and asked to buy it for her for good luck (swoon). Of course the answer was yes. She had to remove it for the procedure, but since that day, she has worn it every other day. Never takes it off.

One of our Christmas photos from last year where you can see her cross.

Photo Credit: Caitlin Fuster

Through the year she had lost one of the little stones, but it was no worry, we still wore it. I just figured it wasn’t worth fixing.

Imagine the scene in my house when she woke up one morning and it wasn’t around her neck. Luckily, the broken chain and the cross were both in her bed and easily found. After a bit of deliberation, I decided to take the kids and the broken necklace up to our family Jeweler Bourghol Brothers. I was certain I was going to be told that it wasn’t worth it to fix anything, and I was going to have to purchase a new, REAL cross. I was totally prepared to do so. I love their quality, and I knew someday she would need one….

I was tentative as I walked up to the counter where Ms. Bourghol stood waiting for me. I explained the story and she completely understood. Together we made the decision to replace the chain (it was actually more cost effective). When we got to the cross itself I braced myself. She didn’t even bring up replacing it. She never even missed a beat when she told me that she would fill in the missing stone with a cz (that’s what is there anyway). Nervous about cost, I asked and was shocked at the result. Not only did she not tell me for a second that it wasn’t worth fixing, she didn’t even consider NOT fixing it, and then the price was so ridiculously reasonable!!!

Reunited less than 24 hours later!!!

Today, (A) and (E) were so excited to get her cross back (and looking so lovely), and my heart is melting. (A) reassured his little ‘sis that if she ever needs another one he will get it for her. That’s when I knew I just had to share. This is so special to me. The Bourghol’s have made me birthday gifts, made my wedding bands, made my birthstone eternity bands for my children, and have replaced something of little monetary value, but great sentimental value reasonably. They get it. That’s what you need in a jeweler, good quality, fabulous ethics, skill, and a real family.

(E) still holding on to her cross after we got in the car.

For anyone who has never been Bourghol Brothers but is interested in checking them out, they are located at 73 Lake Road, Congers, NY 10920. They are closed on Sundays and Mondays though if you want to go check them out. Their website is www.bourgholbrosjewelers.com and their phone is 845-268-9752.

Bounce and Jump Party Rentals- Review

Posted on July 1, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Reviews, Services .

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

Every year when June rolls around I try to think of a fun birthday idea for (W). As a June baby, I always think a pool party is easiest. No need for extra activities, kids will swim for a few hours, easy! This year, (W) said he didn’t want a pool party. So, I was stuck thinking of how to keep kids aged 1-16 entertained. Then I realized, bounce house, of course!

I got in touch with Phil at Bounce and Jump Party Rentals via email. He was quick to respond, and very accommodating. The following day his wife, Denise, called to go over everything and get our party booked. I was a little late booking (May 10^th for a June 20 party…oops) but they still had plenty of options available. Denise mentioned the larger houses sell out several months in advance, so definitely plan ahead! We chose the Large General Module Bounce House. They offer to add a banner onto the house to match your theme. They have 11 options and since (W) is a big Yankee fan we surprised him with a “Yankee bounce house” as he called it!

They also have a few concessions for rent. We added on a snow cone machine! They bring the machine, flavors, cups and you supply the ice. Unfortunately, about 2 weeks before the party we noticed a huge bee problem at our house. I was so scared of the bees being attracted to the sugar in the syrup we decided to cancel the snow cone machine to help keep the bees away. They were very understanding, and I was able to cancel without penalty.

The day before the party, Denise called to confirm all the plans for the following day. Phil and 2 others showed up the next morning about an hour before the party. It took them about 20 minutes to roll out and blow up the bouncer. Once it was up and running they spent another 15 vacuuming and wiping down the inside. Phil then went over the safety rules with us, and pointed out the rules are also posted on the bounce house for everyone else.

The boys quickly got in the bounce house to get some good jumping in before their friends arrived.

Just as the party started the rain came in, ruining the other games I had planned. Thankfully, the bounce house had a roof, and the kids just kept jumping! All the adults were huddled in the garage watching the kids having a blast jumping like crazy, un-phased by the rain. I don’t think the bounce house was ever empty!

Since the rental is for a full day, we had the bounce house for a few hours after the party, so even I got in a few good jumps! Another side note, Phil is so personal that he gave (W) a birthday present, which was a tote bag with a t-shirt, cup and basketball. (W) was beyond excited!!!

They have bouncers, concessions, tables, chairs and tents available for rent. You can check out their pricing and products on their website www.bounceshouserentals.com or call 845-634-1452!

The Perfect Gift

Posted on May 20, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Photography, Reviews, Services .

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

Well, Mother’s Day was approaching again, and I was having difficulty deciding what to get for my mother. She literally has everything, and at this point in her life, if she doesn’t and she needs or wants it, she buys it. So I brainstorm, what can I do for her that she will love for years to come, that will never get old, or go out of style? A memory…. A memory lasts a lifetime… So that’s just what we did.

When I first checked out Kate’s website Kennedy Grace Photography, aside from her beautiful photographs two other things really stood out to me.

She does mostly lifestyle, real life photography.

I love this, you can really see relationships, feel the atmosphere around the subjects, get a glimpse into what their lives are really like. Perfect for a Nana and her grandbabies.

2. She shoots at fun and interesting locations.

She takes her Christmas photos at a tree farm, has sessions at berry picking patches. They are original and adorable, and help to produce the realism that her photos emit.

I knew when I called Kate exactly where we would have to take these photos for my mother. The New Jersey Botanical Gardens. They are beautiful, they are near my mother’s house, and she happens to be a member (we go there with the kids often). Once that was set I tried to think of what else would really make this special for her and decided that in addition I would take her to have her make up done with the amazing Denise Ruis (she has an exclusive special add on rate just for RNYM).

Denise works her magic on my mother.

After much deliberation the clothing choices were taken care of and the day was here. Denise applied my mother’s makeup meticulously as always and it was so fantastic that my mother even purchased the lipstick.

I had spoken to Kate so many times that I felt like I already knew her, but even if I hadn’t her warmth made me feel like we were old friends. She had already been around the grounds checking out spots to take photos and so off we went. The kids, my mom and her husband were the subjects and it was nice to take a step back and let them enjoy. They ran around from spot to spot, stopping to take photos along the way.

The photos are breathtaking. Kate was able to capture my beautiful mother. She captured the special relationship between her and my children.

She captured moments I am so glad she did. For instance (E) has been afraid of my step-father for ages (he’s 6’8”), today she decided she was going to grab his hand and walk around with him. This was a first, a really, really sweet first, and I have it on film (or .jpg anyway).

She also captured some amazing shots of my mother and step-father. This is especially sweet and something that made my mother so glad that we did this.

Best of all is that my mother loves them. She is so happy. I’ve ordered prints, and a mug and she has something to hold on to. So do my kids and I. It was difficult to pick and choose from all of the awesome memories.

While we were looking through there were some special things that we realized took a trained eye and made the photos as beautiful as they are. We knew that the gardens were beautiful, but for my untrained eye, I would have taken close ups of many of the photos that Kate did not, she took them from further out and got the whole scene. Thank goodness she did, otherwise we would have missed out on the majestic surroundings. I really think that the photos speak for themselves.

Kate edited and had the photos back to me within a week. She was so sweet she even snuck in one photo of me off to the side with (E). I love that photo too, we had no idea. Kate is a doll, the pictures are amazing. My mother is happy. Perfect day.

To contact Kate for a session you can check out her website: http://www.kennedygracephotography.com/ or her facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/KennedyGracePhotography Kate still has her May Special going on right now, and stay tuned for her upcoming on location shoots which will include, a lake, berry picking, and more!!!

The NEW Englewood Family Birthing Center

Posted on May 12, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Reviews, Services .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own. (Photo credits to the Englewood Hospital Marketing Department.)

Having a baby is a beautiful experience. It should be. It is the most life changing event that I have ever been through, twice. I remember being so scared when the test came back positive that I was having a baby. I remember being so scared when I went into labor with (A). All if it is so exciting and new and wonderful, and completely horrifying at the same time. I look back and think about what could have possibly made my experience a little better, or make it that much more amazing for new mommies to be and one thing comes to mind. Atmosphere.

When embarking upon something as amazing as childbirth, the setting should match the miracle. What if, instead of walking into a place that screamed “Hospital” you could quietly ride a beautiful elevator into what looks like a luxury hotel? What if for the next few days, you could have room service, and serenity and have nothing to worry about except bringing that wonderful life into the world, and beginning the next phase of your journey together? That’s what the new Englewood Family Birthplace had on their mind when they designed their new facilities. A setting that befits the miracles that happen there.

I am often asked where the best hospital to deliver is and for a time I thought, aren’t they all the same? What I have found…far from it.

The rooms are like stunning apartments. I was floored when I entered. You would never know that you were in a hospital. Don’t want to look at the monitors? They have handsome cabinets that can hide them in an instant.

Want to watch the beauty of the birth? The mirror comes right down from the ceiling.

Looking for a relaxing bath while you labor? Many of the rooms have soothing tubs within. Process taking longer than expected? No need to bring in a cot, or have your loved ones sleeping on an uncomfortable chair. There are full size futons (seriously extra-long for tall daddies), that just pull out and turn into a comfortable bed.

Your baby also has a beautiful room to stay in should you choose to have them stay in the nursery. At Englewood its your choice.

Englewood spared no detail. Not only did they take into account the needs of mommy, baby and daddy, they have even gone that extra mile for the rest of the family as they wait in the lobby. There is a charming area set aside for loved ones who are awaiting a new arrival, complete with flat screen TV, comfortable seating, and even a charging station for your phone should your wait time exceed your battery power. When they need a break, there is also the amazing cafeteria (really it’s more like a café) downstairs to grab a meal and stretch your legs.

The charging station available to family members while they wait.

After baby is born, aside from the top notch medical care available, they offer other services that not all hospitals think of. They have an exclusive contract with a newborn photographer who takes some of the cutest photos I have ever seen. One more thing to check off the list and not have to worry about afterwards. Another adorable amenity, there are little red wagons that you can use to bring your newborn gifts to your car with. These wagons double as an awesome way to bring big brother and sister along and make them feel included.

Some of the adorable photos taken by their exclusive newborn photographer which line the halls of the birthing center!

Who doesn’t love a wagon, such a cute and special detail!

Having your first child? Having a second or third and maybe need a little refresher (let’s face it we are programmed to forget portions so that we do it again)? Englewood can prepare you for all of that too with their Childbirth Education Classes. These classes cover everything from what to expect, breastfeeding, sibling prep, yoga and more. These classes have a fantastic reputation and are very affordable. There are also resources available post-partum, like access to their lactation consultant, and breast-feeding hotline. Additionally, during my tour it was mentioned that they also have several different “events” for expecting families that are free of charge and open to the public (which we will be posting on RNYM for your benefit).

Having a baby is an experience beyond compare. Doesn’t matter if it’s your first or you’re fifth. For both of my children I planned incessantly. I read for hours. Englewood has done a lot of that for you. They have planned for you. Every precaution has been taken to make your experience the beautiful memory it should be. It even makes me want to have a third child just to experience it!

To schedule a tour of the Family Birth Place which are available on Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30 please call 866-980- EHMC (registration is required).

Our “Super” Experience

Posted on April 23, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Events, Out and about..., Reviews, Services .

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

I am always looking for fun experiences to bring the kids to. It becomes difficult from time to time to find something that will interest both my daughter AND my son. Princess balls, tea parties etc. are all awesome and fun for me and (E) but are not that interesting for (A). This past weekend Manda’s Enchanted Events along with Powerhouse Dance Center, hit the nail on the head. Both kiddies (and mommy) had a “super” time.

We are an action film family. We LOVE superheroes. (E)’s new bitty baby that she received for Christmas is named Natasha Romanov. Most people don’t even know who that is. So, needless to say when they announced there was a “Superhero Luncheon” we HAD to be there.

They did not disappoint. We got to hang with Iron Man, Spiderman, and the Black Widow herself. Having Natasha there in and of itself speaks to how detail oriented the planners were. She (along with other female characters) are often overlooked at these types of events. I am so glad she wasn’t because in our house, we really love the role model of a tough, self-sufficient woman.

The scene was set right away. The heroes were really interactive, and really great at portraying their characters. They even had a game plan for what to say when asked where the rest of their friends were. Natasha (the Black Widow) led the charge by explaining the activities and making introductions, as she would in any of the movies. Spidey crawled all over the place and was super friendly (very like his real character). The kids really felt like a part of the training team.

The activities were age appropriate (for various ages, there were kids from 21 months up to 7), and fun. The whole time the heroes engaged the kids. There was ample opportunity for them to run around and play as well as have photos taken.

(A) really enjoyed the training (especially arm wrestling them and strength training).

(E) loved hula hooping and DANCING! She was a Dancing fool!!

The food was good and plentiful with a child’s interests having been taken into account. The Activities as well as the eating and photo opportunities were organized well. We did not have to wait on line for either food or our photos with the gang. All those involved were super accommodating and happy to be there. The parents and kids in attendance were all lovely. Everyone was so happy to see the kids having so much fun. There wasn’t “down time” when the kids would get bored or start to act a little nutty either, it was scheduled really well. I have been to events where you could tell the kids had had enough, this wasn’t one of them. They were interested in the whole experience.

After photos each “Superhero in Training” was given a certificate and cupcakes were served. The kids then had another opportunity to dance and hang out with the superheroes. My kids had a fantastic time. It was such a personal experience, they smiled all day long. (A) couldn’t stop talking about how he beat Iron Man at arm wrestling and he met a lovely little girl who was dressed like the Black Widow that he spent nearly every second there with.

If you get a chance to attend a superhero luncheon with these guys again, jump on it. It was not your typical event. They kept it small enough that it wasn’t overcrowded and it felt very nice. The kids had a great time and so did I.

Want to see more? Here’s a video Manda’s Enchanted Events put together for us!

http://youtu.be/1hU2vNYW3q4

Manda’s Enchanted Events not only plans and runs events like the “Superhero Luncheon” and “Princess Balls” she also has a slew of characters available to come to special events or parties. For more information about Manda’s Enchanted Events you can follow them on Facebook at: Facebook.com/mandasenchantedevents and on their website at: mandasenchantedevents.com For more information or to book an appearance you can email: manda@mandasenchantedevents.com or call: 845-494-0409.

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