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Category Archives: RNYM’s Picks

Climbing out of our Comfort Zone

Posted on December 11, 2023 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Birthdays, Classes, Classes for Kids, Day Trips, Day Trips, Health and Wellness, Out and about..., Party, Reviews, RNYM's Picks .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Build Your Summer S’mores Kit!

Posted on July 23, 2022 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Camp Johnston, RNYM's Picks, Shopping, Specialty Items, Yumm! .

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

If you know me, or have BBQ’d with me, then you’ve probably been subject to my fireside feasts.  I LOVE FIRE!  When we purchased our home and our lake house one of the major items needed was a fireplace, they go all winter long.  In the summer it is no different.  I made sure that we have a fire pit at each, and I love to make a fire, have a drink, and make ridiculous treats by the fire.  To me its the embodiment of summer.  My happy place, my solitude.  I am going to share some of the awesome stuff we do with you.  This one is just how I built my unbelievable s’mores kit.


I know this is a trend now, but I SWEAR (anyone can attest to it, I was doing this a long time before it was chic.  I have linked you up to all of the items I suggest through my buddies Amazon, but I find most of my stuff at Walmart, and the regular food store.

First and Foremost– the items you need in order to do this:

  • Fire Pit
  • Indoor S’mores maker
  • S’mores sticks

You also NEED somewhere to store everything- my family KNOWS not to touch the smores kit, its OFF LIMITS, I don’t care how much you want a sweet treat.  I keep everything packed up in a plastic tub so it keeps fresh, and it helps them to know what they CANNOT eat.

When I make the kit I put them on a nice tray for presentation.


The bread– (what we affectionately call the outer portion of the s’more) Graham crackers are fine, but it gets super fun when you mix up the bread parts.

  • Chocolate Graham crackers
  • Graham crackers
  • Cookies
Marshmallows– THERE ARE SO MANY GREAT OPTIONS!!
  • Vanilla Stuffed
  • Chocolate stuffed
  • Cookies and cream stuffed 
  • Stawberry
(also worth noting, there was a chocolate peppermin stutffed option this winter, I purchased some and held onto them until summer and they were great so i’ll stock up again this winter)
Candy-
  • Reeces
  • Cookies and cream hershey
  • Hershey classic
  • Fruity pebbles bar
I just went to Hershey with the kids and found some great new flavors I HAD to buy and try (mint, strawberry and birthday cake, will let you know how that went.
Tags: S’mores, summer fun, sweet treats .

Tiki Torch Torture

Posted on July 18, 2022 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Crafts, RNYM's Picks .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post.  All opinions expressed are my own.  This article contains affiliate links which means if you choose to purchase the items we recommend we earn a small commission.  

We own a cabin in the woods of the Poconos.  It’s my happy place.  We have been working on it non stop in the two years that we have owned it.  Last year for Mother’s day my family purchased for me a set of Tiki Torches.  What a great IDEA cause I LOVE to sit outside in the evenings and enjoy company of family and friends.  The problem is, being in a lake region, the ground is TOO SOFT for the torches to stay put in the ground.  Every time I put them in the ground, they fell.

We came up with this inexpensive planter fix- which I think is ADORABLE.  Now they stay put, they look adorable, and I am pleased as punch to sit outside and enjoy my outdoor space.

What you need:

  • Plastic Pots in two sizes (this link has both on it if you need them)– one that’s about the size of a coffee can (or actual coffee cans), and then a larger pot to put it all in and then put flowers in.  I found mine at Dollar General, but in case you can’t get out, I linked you to some on Amazon.

  • Tiki Torches 

  • Tiki Torch Cartridge Replacements (in case your got rusty over the winter too)
  • Cement
  • Potting Soil (we used miracle grow)

  • Flowers (went with Vinca’s here because deer don’t love them)

Steps:

  1. Mix the cement.
  2. Put tiki torch bottom into the smaller pot- fill around it with cement. Let dry at least 24 hours.

     3.  Put the smaller pot into the larger one, filling around the bottom with rocks for stability and filler.

4.  Add potting soil, then flowers.

We placed ours around the fire pit area and I cannot wait for the flowers to fill themselves in!

If you love our post or give it a try please as always share a pin, a comment, a social share <3

 

RNYM’s 10 Must Visit Farms 2022

Posted on April 20, 2022 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Out and about..., Photo Obsessed, RNYM's Picks, Things to Do!, Uncategorized .

We LOVE to be outdoors, and lately I’ve seen some amazing opportunities to get outside with the kids and enjoy what nature has to offer.  As a family we love all things nature, flowers, fruits, animals and more. (E) and I love to pick flowers, and (A) has a new found love of photography- especially of nature which makes these little adventures just so perfect.

So, here’s our list of unique farms we recommend visiting this Spring-Fall- We’ll post what we think after we’ve been so you can keep track of the fun!!

  Tried one out? Tag us or use our hashtag #RNYMFarmList

Wildflowers at Brittany Hollow Farm

http://brittanyhollowfarm.blogspot.com

 

Our Plan: (E) is still OBSESSED with flower picking.  We went down to Jill’s Ceramics and she made her very own vase (complete with family portrait) on it to keep in her room with her picked flowers.  This will be used every time we can (when the flowers fit because of course, even though I encouraged her to make a larger vase, she chose a small one so she can’t fit a ton in there).

Tulips at Holland Ridge Farm

**Currently open through May 1st, get your tickets ASAP if you are looking to go- they are saying they are open until 5/1 its usually a little longer but don’t bank on it.  You may have just seen our post about our most recent trip.**

https://www.hollandridgefarms.com

We’ve been coming to Holland Ridge for 3 years now.  We have experienced super hot sunny days (our first year), Rainy days (last year), and this year, cold and windy.  IT STILL ROCKS!  We picked our flowers, took some great photos, got some wooden tulip key chains to turn into Christmas Ornaments, and even tried out the bakery (the stuffed cookie was fabulous, but I would skip the coffee if I had it to do over).

Locust Grove Fruit Farm
199 North Road
Milton NY 12547

U-Pick Saturday – Sunday
Hours 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

A fabulous lesser known “pick your own” fruit and veggie farm.  Well worth it especially if like us you are working the “farm to table” angle as long as you can over the summer.  Need more convincing?  There’s a barn brewery (you’re welcome) where you can get some home brewed cider.

 

Blueberry Picking at Halfway Acres Farm

**You can thank us later**

IMG_4455

https://halfwayacres.com

 We will pick, then research some great recipes to add to our RNYM’s Favorite Recipes Page.  It’s a great way to get them involved in eating healthy, learning how to cook and also, learning about where their food comes from.  Veteran tip- pick more than you think you need, they go down like candy.

Sunflower Picking at SunFlower Valley Farm

**This is one of our FAVORITE HAUNTS!!!**

https://www.sunflowervalleyfarm.com/

 366 County Route 12, New Hampton, NY 10958

My father’s favorite flower was the sunflower so its no surprise that I like to go sunflower picking and keep fresh cut sunflowers on the table throughout their peak season.  What’s super nice about this farm is that aside from their festival its fairly low key.  They have a corn maze, and usually some animals to pet too. The dogs were welcome too (on leash) which was FABULOUS!  Great photo opportunity too you know I can’t leave that part out)!!!

April Hours:
Tuesday-Saturday 9am-5pm
Closed Sunday & Monday

If you’re looking for a good old farm stand with baked goods, local veggies and more Stokes is the place.  This is where we go to grab the annual and perennial flowers that adorn our yard every year.  It’s perfect for projects with the kids where they can pick out their own to plant, and Ronnie (both generations) is very helpful.

Looking for a beautiful bouquet of flowers that you don’t have to arrange?  Need center pieces for an event? Have their on site floral designer (Jen) create something special for you.  We had her do (E)’s Communion Flowers and they were AMAZING..

      

She is also their on site photographer with Neverland Photography by Jen Tesker.

Lavender Field

***This field hasn’t been open for two years, but we are hopeful that it will be again this year, we are DYING to go t

**We’ have been trying to make it here for 2 years unsuccessfully we would like to take photos and pick some, maybe make sachets or soap or bath bombs out of the lavender we collect.***

https://www.orchardviewlavenderfarm.com/about-orchard-view-lavender-farm

Information: We love visitors!! We are open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. We also host groups of 10 or more by appointment. To make an appointment contact Monica at 201-341-8147 or email her at monica@orchardviewlavenderfarm.com.

Our farm has become a favorite destination where guests can “Cut Your Own” lavender during bloom season and shop in our Lavender Farm Stand. Our English Lavenders typically bloom middle to end of June and our French usually bloom in July.  Of course, we are at the mercy of Mother Nature. She determines the bloom times as well as the duration of the bloom.

We offer a variety of natural handmade artisan lavender products including bath & body, household, culinary, teas and tea accessories. And, of course, you’ll also find lavender, both fresh and dried (when in season and while supplies last), lavender sachets in an array of styles and also the finest quality lavender essential oil. We’ve partnered with talented Artisans and Makers to bring you unique handmade gifts, aromatherapy jewelry, décor and so much more.  You’ll also find pure honey harvested from the hives on our farm.

We welcome you to Banbury Cross Farm. Established in 1963, our farm has been passed down from one generation to the next. Our goal is to provide grass-fed, antibiotic free, no added hormone, all-natural beef & lamb, pork, chicken, ducks and turkey. Our livestock is of the highest quality.

We believe in the humane treatment of all animals. We do our best to raise and nurture them in a clean, open, natural environment. Banbury Cross Farm provides the finest holistic care for every animal living on our farms. Our pastures are all-natural grasses, forbs, and browse. Clean, fresh groundwater is provided in all of the pastures year-round.

This I like because its a bit different, its a working animal farm, that does sell meat etc, but also by appointment you can go learn about the animals, and even feed them.  Sounds like a win win to me.

Banbury Cross Farm store is open: Monday, Friday, Saturday 9-11, Wednesday 1-4.

 

Careful with this one, there are different gardens for different purposes.  Although the display gardens sound intriguing- we are more interested in picking our own and snapping a few family pics on an adventure.  Therefore we want the “cut flower fields”  if you just want to experience the beauty maybe have a picnic you want the display gardens- so check out the info for that.

Here is the info:

Plan Your Visit

Where: To avoid confusion, please note that this is our satellite location.
Our primary location is our Display Gardens in Bernardsville, NJ, click here for details.

Our Cut Flower Fields are located at the English Farm
3625 Valley Road, Liberty Corner (Basking Ridge), NJ 07938

When: NOW CLOSED. The dates depend on the timing of the peak herbaceous bloom. Typically, this is from around Memorial Day through the first week in June. Stay tuned for updates on our 2022 season.
Fields open at 10am. Last admission at 3pm, everyone must be out of the fields by 4pm.

How Much: Admission is $10 per person, including children of all ages.
Cut Flowers are $4 per stem.
There’s no need to buy a ticket online or make a reservation at this time, tickets are available at the door.

What to Bring: Bring your own clippers, a bag or bucket to put your flowers in, and water for you and your flowers. We also recommend wearing walking shoes and a hat.

Photography: You are welcome to take a few photos while you are here but we ask that you not come exclusively for photography. No professional photography allowed.

Parking: Drive past the barn and park by the black Peony’s Envy Tent.

Guidelines:

  • No pets, this includes the parking area

  • No smoking, this includes the parking area

  • No picnics

  • No professional photography

  • COVID – We will continue to follow the CDC and Sate of New Jersey Guidelines.

Stuart’s Fruit Farm is a family-operated farm since 1828 located in Westchester County, New York.  We happen to be friends with the family.  That doesn’t mean that it isn’t a top notch farm, and as you know, we believe in supporting small, family owned businesses.  It is about an hour away from New York City. The farm began as cattle farm and evolved to an agricultural farm.

Depending on your seasonal needs; visit us in the spring to buy a varied selection of flowers and vegetable plants, the autumn for apple picking, peach picking and visiting the pumpkin patch, and in the winter for Christmas trees.

Visiting Stuart’s Fruit Farm in the autumn is an exceptional time of the year.  Aside from the perfect apple picking with an array of apples take a hayride around the orchard and visit the farm stand to buy fresh produce and the bakery for delicious apple cider donuts and homemade pies baked daily.  Finally, before heading home have a picnic with your family to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage.

At Stuart’s farm we have free parking and we do not charge an orchard fee. Here is the pick your own schedule: https://www.stuartsfarm.com/pyo.html

***Please remember it is cash or check only. For apple picking you can only use Stuart’s farm bags. No outside bags permitted***

Rock n’ Roll! A Destination Recital!

Posted on October 7, 2021 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Out and about..., Photo Obsessed, Reviews, RNYM's Picks, Things to Do!, Travel .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Family Friendly Paint- Available at Wallauer Paint and Design

Posted on July 8, 2021 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Health and Wellness, In the Home, Items, Reviews, RNYM Savings!, RNYM's Picks, Rockland Babies, Rockland Real Estate .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Musicianship- A Lesson well Learned

Posted on July 8, 2021 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Classes for Kids, Opportunities, Out and about..., Photography, Reviews, RNYM's Picks, Things to Do!, Thoughts.. .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wrapped Around My Heart -My Mother’s Day Gift

Posted on June 28, 2021 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Reviews, RNYM's Picks, Services, Uncategorized .

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post, I have always just loved this place and had to share with you.

I am a total sap.  You already know about my obsession with hand made items, and handprints.  Well it turns out that I am well within my rights.  I have always thought that your kids are little for only such a short time and as mine turn 11 and 8 (how is that possible) I find that I was correct.  (A) is off to middle school and is 5′ 2″ and (E) is heading into 3rd grade!!!  Time really flies.

All the more reason to personalize and make those special gifts/take the photos while your kiddos will still comply.  I stumbled upon this adorable ring that was conveniently showing up on my social media outlets and I adored it!  It actually turns out that my Sister in Law, saw the same ring and got it!!! When I saw it I couldn’t believe it, she has such good taste :o)

This is not my ring, just an example of what I saw.

I had mentioned when looking at it online how cool it would be if it wasn’t just a pretty script that was used for the kids names, but if it was their ACTUAL signatures that wrapped around my finger.

Well, RNYD heard me loud and clear and knew right where to go.  He headed up to see Andrew at Bourghol Brothers.  Our family has used them since before I can remember.  A local treasure, I received my first item from them for my sweet 16 and have been back a million times since.  In fact, I was just there ordering another super special and sweet gift for (E)’s communion this September that I plan to write about soon.

Andrew said it would be no problem.  He took the kids’ signatures, and said it would be ready in about a month.

We got a call yesterday that our order(s) (yeah there’s another post coming) were ready.  RNYD and the kids didn’t want to wait another moment so we went right over.  Well, it far exceeded my expectations.  The rind fits like a glove, and matches their signatures EXACTLY!  I love that we have someone who can bring our ideas to live so close by. Please excuse the cuts on my hands, as well as the unmanicured fingernails (COVID). Additionally, this is simply a phone photo that doesn’t do justice to the real thing.

Walking in is like visiting family and I can’t wait to go back (no really my father in law said he needs to head over this week for a certain little lady’s Communion gift).  If you are looking for something special for a loved one, this is the place to go.

Performances, Recitals and Concerts are BACK!

Posted on May 10, 2021 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Reviews, RNYM Savings!, RNYM's Picks, Things to Do!, Travel .

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

I KNOW everyone is craving some normal.  Now the kids are back to school (even mine starting this week), Broadway is selling some tickets for this coming fall, and even my students are coming in and reporting that they have been vaccinated.  I want to take this opportunity to champion all the children’s classes and activities that found ways to continue on thus far.  You guys are amazing!  This includes (but is no limited to) our directory members Dance Central PA, New City School of Music, Coupe Dance Theatre Studio, Swim Like a Fish Instructional Aquatics and so so many more. 

Virtual instruction and performances have continued on, with most offering a hybrid or full accommodated return. Although all had the best of intentions, my children were uninterested in virtual performances last year, and I am sure they are not the only ones.  With more time to prepare this year, they have secured outdoor locations, and some MAJOR indoor performances that we have been looking forward to can continue.

This is what spurred this latest article.  Although (E) has not been able to dance this year (virtual just doesn’t work for her and with her health concerns we couldn’t risk it), (A) has been doing his drum lessons virtually since March of last year.  We are lucky enough to have a full kit at home to work with.  Each time a virtual recital came up he politely declined, wanting to perform live.  The event he was so looking forward to (playing at the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame) was postponed, and he was really nervous that it would be cancelled.  He even got to perform a NYSSMA piece for the first time this year, and had to participate virtually by recording him playing.  He doesn’t love that, but was a trooper.

We just received an email from New City School of Music  with information regarding an OUTDOOR in person-performance in June. (A) was all over that- is like playing at a festival, or a party!  He is so stoked! Truly, there’s an option for everyone and that’s what I love.

Information: June 27th we’re doing a hybrid recital! We’re doing outdoors in person here in Zukor Park here in New City on Sunday June 27th. We’re very excited about that. Everyone will be safely socially distanced.  We’re renting the stage from the town for students to perform on.  And we’re also going to continue with the online option.  So students who wish to perform virtually can still do that, and we’ll post that on our YouTube page.

Then we received word about a new Rock N Roll Hall of Fame date. (A) couldn’t be happier.  We get to take a little family vacation and he creates the memory of a lifetime (you’d better believe I have a pinterest board ready)!

Information: We’ll be performing in the Foster Theatre, located on the 3rd floor of the Hall of Fame August 21.

As if that weren’t enough, Sam and the staff at the music school realize that getting your child to practice may be difficult so they have added zoom practice sessions to their list of offerings!!!

Information: Twice a week students can log in to a Zoom practice room to practice with other students, and we have a live proctor there to help students practice.  Students can ask questions – how do I work on this, or that?  We’re getting a lot of really great feedback on this and it’s keeping students motivated. And on top of that, every time you log in to the Zoom practice session, you can earn 3 points towards your practice challenge wristband.  You can earn 1 point for practicing at home, you can mark it off on your practice chart and 3 for practicing in the practice session.  So be sure to check that out – check your email for the dates and times and we’ll see you online for the Practice Sessions!

With amazing things like these coming up, its no wonder they have just reached the milestone of having 650 students enrolled at the school (congrats guys).  They will just keep growing.

845-709-8383

Email: office@newcitymusicschool.com

RNYM is Going Solar!

Posted on May 8, 2021 by RocklandNYMom Posted in RNYM Savings!, RNYM's Picks, Uncategorized .

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

About 10 years ago RNYD and I met with someone about going Solar.  We have always liked the idea.  We were clear that we didn’t want any panels on the front of our home, as they won’t go with the traditional style.  We were assured that there wouldn’t be.  When it came time to do the paperwork, they had added some to the front.  We never did it.

Fast forward to two months ago.  Good friend and New City North Pole Airport genius Gary went solar, with panels only on the back side of his house.  He runs a large home, as well as his airport off of it.  My electric bill is ASTRONOMICAL.  He told me to call his representative Liz, so I did.

She was lovely, and could in fact add the panels only to the back of my home.   With rates ever climbing and the shut down of Indian Point inevitable, I don’t see it getting any better. We have signed, and our plans are already into the town, (they do all that for you!!!)

Here’s what I am excited about.  With the purchase of the panels- I am still saving $150 a month going solar, that’s HUGE!  Liz and her team do all the leg work for you, its simple.  My house will be a bit cooler because of the panels themselves, AND I know we are doing a little something for the environment.

I can’t wait to tell you more about the process.  As soon as we move forward I will report.  Right now I want to give you Liz’s information in case you are interested in hearing more: 914-649-8923 liz@empiresolarny.com 

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