RNYM’s Picks – Page 11 – Rockland NY Mom

September- Fairs, Festivals, and Fun!!!

Posted on September 4, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Out and about..., RNYM's Picks .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post. Ashley put together this fabulous list for your benefit. Something missing? Send us an email!!!

New York Renaissance Fair
Weekends starting August 1^st – September 27^th

10am-7pm

Travel back to the 16th century and stroll though their quaint village. Enjoy live shows, jugglers, acrobats, pirates and more. Plenty of food and refreshments available.

Admission: Adult $24.00 (13 & up), Kids: $11.00 (5-12), Under 5 FREE

600 Route 17A, Sterling Forest Tuxedo
http://renfair.com/ny/index.asp

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CORNucopia
September 5 – September 7

10am- 5pm

Learn to make corn husk dolls, English Country dance, enjoy modern and historic cooking techniques, Live Folk music, let the kids run through a mini-maize maze. Plus enjoy corn inspired food selections and local draft beer and root beer.

Admission: Online $16; $12 for seniors; $8 for children 3-17.
Free for members and children under 3. Prices are $2 higher onsite.

Philipsburg Manor
381 N. Broadway Sleepy Hollow
http://www.hudsonvalley.org/events/cornucopia

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Nyack SeptemberFest Street Fair
September 13

10am-5pm

Browse 300+ vendors of art, clothing, gifts, jewelry and more. Plus a Kids Carnival with bounce houses, live music and more.

Main street and Broadway, Downtown Nyack

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Bear Mountain Oktoberfest
Weekends starting September 12 – October 2th Including Columbus Day

Noon – 6pm

Enjoy a fall day with German food, beer, live music, craft vendors and more.

Admission: FREE + $8 parking CASH

Anthony Wayne Recreation Area
http://www.visitbearmountain.com/files/603/GSI15_BMI_Flyer_OktoberFestRelocation_8-5x11_20150518_hires.pdf

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6th Annual Italian Feast & Carnival
September 17 – 20

Stop by for live entertainment, Italian food, Gift boutique, kids rides and much more.

Thursday 5pm – 11pm
Friday 5pm – midnight
Saturday 11am – midnight
Sunday mass at 10:30 am and the Festival 12 until 9pm.

Admission: $3 donation per person; free under age 10

Masonic Park and Fairgrounds
89 Western Highway in Tappan, New York
http://www.blauveltsonsofitaly.org/italian-feast.html

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Fall Crafts at Lyndhurst
September 18-20^th

Stop by Hudson Valley’s most popular craft show. Meet new artists, and purchase their latest work, while enjoying specialty food and children’s activities.

Friday 10 am – 5 pm
Saturday 10 am – 6 pm
Sunday 10 am – 5 pm

Admission: $12 Seniors (62 and up) $11, Kid 6-16 $4, under 6 free
CASH OR CHECK ONLY!

635 South Broadway Tarrytown, NY 10591 – NO PETS
http://www.artrider.com/#!fall-crafts-at-lyndhurst-2015/cwjq

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25th Annual Taste of New Paltz
September 19^th

Great food, craft beer, local wine, live music, children’s activities, and vendors.

SATURDAY ONLY 11am – 6pm

Admission: Advance tickets – $7, Day of – $10, Kids 12 and under – FREE

Ulster County Fair Grounds: Liberty Road, New Paltz
http://www.tasteofnewpaltz.com

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Equine! Equine! Equine! Festival
September 19

10am-6pm

Enjoy a day of Free pony rides, horse shows, blacksmithing demonstrations, an equine art show, and plenty of food and refreshments

Admission: $10 at the gate, $7 in advance

Dutchess County Fairgrounds: 6550 Spring Brook Avenue Rhinebeck
www.facebook.com/annualequinefestival

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Stony Point Fall Festival and Family Fun Day
September 26

There will be vendors, bounce houses, fingerprinting, car seat checks, petting zoo, live music, mobile zip line, and so much more.

10am-5pm

Kirkbride Hall 5 Patriot Hills Dr. Stony Point

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Hudson Valley Garlic Festival
September 26-27

Saturday – 10am-6pm Sunday – 10am-5pm

Enjoy meeting farmers, and chefs while enjoying live music. Get a little adventurous and try Garlic ice cream. Let the kids decorate pumpkins and climb a rock wall.
Washington Avenue Extension Saugerties, New York 1247
www.hvgf.org

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Hunter Mountain Oktoberfest
Weekends starting September 26 – October 18

11am-6:15pm

Delicious food vendors, free crafts for the kids, live music and more.

Admission: FREE

Hunter Mountain, Hunter

http://www.huntermtn.com/summer/festivals/oktoberfest/

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Apple Picking Guide 2015

Posted on August 16, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Out and about..., RNYM's Picks, Uncategorized .

Apple Picking season is upon us, Yay!
Below is a list of local orchards (unsponsored) to visit for a fun family day out. Special thanks to Ashley for her research!!! Don’t forget that you can “Pin” this post for later reference!!!

Be sure to call ahead to double-check the hours and availability.

Dr. Davies Farm
Route 304 Congers, NY
845-268-7020

DrDaviesFarm.com

The Orchard farm has been family run since 1891. With 2 farms stands – on 9w and 304 in Congers, with a great array of home grown fruits and veggies. They have hayrides through the orchard on the weekend and tractors to climb and play on for some adorable pictures. Just a heads up this farm is CASH ONLY!

Hours: Everyday 10am-4pm

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Orchards of Concklin
2 South Mountain Rd., Pomona, NY 10970
(845) 354-0369

OrchardsofConcklin.com

They are the oldest farm in the region, been farming since 1711. On the weekends they have bounce houses, kids haunted house, food truck in addition to their farm market store with fresh veggies, fruits, home made pies, donuts, cider, cakes, cookies and so much more.

Hours: 8am – 6pm

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Apple Ridge Orchard
101 Jessup Rd., Warwick
845-987-7717

AppleRidgeOrchards.com

Starting September 19^th they will begin their apple picking season. They will have hay wagon rides, friendly farm animals and a corn maze. Stop by the farm stand to taste the yummy honey, fresh apple cider, apple cider donuts, apple butter, fresh preserves, and more. Be sure to check out the Bee Observation Hives to watch how the bees are making the delicious honey they sell!

Hours: Sat., Sun and all holidays open 9am -6pm.

Cost: $28 for 1/2 bushel of apples

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Mr Apples Orchard
25 Orchard Street Box 98
High Falls
845-687-0005 or 845-687-9498

This orchard is a friendly small town, rustic orchard. Boasting low spray of the apples, and no herbicides in the soil.

Hours: Call ahead

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Lawrence Farms
306 Frozen Ridge Rd, Newburgh
845.562.4268

lawrencefarmsorchards.com

September not only means apple picking but tons of other yummy fruits and veggies! Pears, grapes, plums, cabbage, broccoli, eggplant just to name a few. Call before you go to double check availability. On the weekends go for a horse-drawn carriage ride around the beautiful scenic farm. And Be sure to indulge in some locally made dairy farm ice cream and home made doughnuts. They also have show chickens and goats.

Hours: Everyday 9am-4pm

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Maskers Orchard
45 Ball Road Warwick, NY 10990
845-986-1058

Maskers.com

At Maskers Orchards you can drive right up into the orchard, and settle in for the day. Bring a picnic lunch and some chairs! They have pony rides, horse drawn wagon rides, a family friendly haunted house, face painting, apple maze, music performances. They have a snack barn with pizza, ice cream, hot and cold beverages, farm-fresh cider, freshly made apple cider donuts and of course, freshly baked apple pie.

Hours: 9am-5pm – country store as well!

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Apple Dave’s Orchard
82 Four Corners Rd., Warwick NY
845-986-1684

applewoodorchards.com

Formerly Applewood Orchards, Apple Dave’s has over 11 varieties of apples. They offer wagon rides, music and puppet shows. With plenty of food options including a Farm store with cider, jams, jellies, herbs and fresh seasonal produce. A little bonus for the parents, is the Applewood Distillery and Winery.

Hours: Everyday (starting beginning of September) 9am-5pm

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Ochs Orchard
4 Ochs Lane Warwick, New York 10990
845-986-1591

Ochsorchard.net

There is a small petting zoo for the kids to enjoy and a gazebo at the top of the orchard – perfect for picnicking. A Farm Market with seasonal veggies, jams, butter, jellies, eggs and of course Apple Cider. As well as a pick your own flower garden.

Hours: Picking days change weekly – call ahead. 9am – 5pm

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Pennings Orchard
169 State Route 94 South, Warwick, NY
845-986-7080

Penningsorchard.com

Indulge at the ice cream stand and visit the farm animals. On some weekends there are hayrides, live music, pony rides, kiddie maze and a cow milking contest! Be sure to call ahead for these activities.

Parents, are you looking for a day without the kiddos? Visit Pennings Pub and Grille, where you can enjoy local food, beer, wine and their home made hard cider at the beer garden while listening to live music.

Hours: M,W,TH,FR,S,Sun 9am-5pm, Tues open until 6pm

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Slate Hill Orchards
2580 US-6, Slate Hill, NY 10973
845-355-4493

Slatehillorchards.com

They just re-opened the orchard in January, so give them a call for updated details on hours and special events!

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Weed Orchards Winery
43 Mt Zion Rd, Marlboro
845-236-2684

thewineryatweedorchards.com

This family owned Orchard and Winery offers not only Pick Your Own apples, but pick your own produce! Check their website for a list of what’s available for picking before you go! Stop by the Winery and taste some NY made wine, beer and cider. Looks like a great spot for a day/evening out without the kids.

Hours: Everyday 10am-5pm

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Warwick Valley Winery and Distillery
114 Little York Road, Warwick
845-258-4858

wvwinery.com

At Warwick Valley Orchard they try to cater their establishment to a more adult crowd since they do serve alcohol. However, the orchard is gorgeous and their apples are delicious and they offer a tractor ride to and from the orchard! They have an apple tasting bar and prepicked apples for purchase. No outside food or beverages please.

Hours: Mon – Fri: 12pm to 5pm Saturday – Sunday: 11am to 5pm

Cost: $25 for ½ bushel bag (about 25lbs) + tractor ride for 4 people
$3 per person for an additional tractor ride
$5 parking fee.

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Demarest Farms
244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale, NJ 07642
201-666-0472

DemarestFarms.com

Demarest farms is the only Pick Your Own orchard in Bergen county. They offer hayrides, farm animals to pet and feed, corn maze, and a farm market with delicious honey, fresh pressed apple cider, apple cider donuts, apple butter, and so much more! Hours: M- F 3 to 4:30PM, Sat and Sun 10AM to 4:30PM Cost: $5 admission per person – includes hayride, corn maze, and visit with farm animals. Plus: $9 for a bag to hold apples that you can pick.

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Barton Orchards
63 Apple Tree Ln, Poughquag, NY 12570
845-227-2306

Bartonorchards.com

Barton Orchards has great family activities. Including hayrides, corn maze, walking trails, peddle kart race track, trackless train, a live actor Haunted House, barnyard animals and a pumpkin field slide. As well as, the Midway Farm Market, bakery and snack shacks.

Hours: Mon – Fri 9am-5pm, Sat and Sun 9am-6pm

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Greig Farms
227 Pitcher Lane, Red Hook, NY
845-758-1234

GreigFarm.com

This farm has been open to the public for 60 years. Offering pick your own fruits and vegetables. There are goats to feed, and a koi pond. They also hold a weekly farmers market on Saturdays from 10-6.

Hours: Everyday 9am-6pm

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Mead Orchards
15 Scism Rd, Tivoli NY 12583
845-756-5641

Meadorchards.com

Stop by the farm market for some local grown fruits and vegetables, as well as home-made jams and jellies. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the country setting.

Hours: Sat and Sun 10am-6pm as well as Monday holidays during the season

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Wilkens Fruit and Fir stand
1335 White Hill Road Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
(914) 245-5111

Wilkensfarm.com

Picking starts September 12^th this year. Walk the along the path or enjoy a tractor ride to and from the orchard. Be sure to stop by the market on your way home for some fresh baked pies, donuts, cookies and more! Or call your order in ahead of time. The market also has snack options: hot dogs, popcorn as well as apple cider, coffee and water.

Hours: Pick-Your-Own: 10am-4:30pm Markets: 10am-5pm

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Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard
(formerly Outhouse Orchards)
130 Hardscrabble Rd. North Salem, NY 10560
914-485-1210

harvestmoonfarmandorchard.com

Spend the day enjoying hayrides around the farm, jumping in a bounce house, apple games, Live Music, visiting farm animals (no feeding or petting), pony rides, face painting and food vendors.

Hours: Everyday 8am-6pm

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Stuarts Farm
62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs, NY
914-245-2784

StuartsFarm.com

Come on the weekends for hayrides from 11am – 5pm. They have a yummy farm stand with fresh produce, pies and apple cider donuts. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy some family time amidst the fall foliage. (WE LOVE BOB AND BETSY, TELL THEM WE SAID HI!!)

Hours: Everyday 10am – 6pm

#Superheroesforeveryone

Posted on August 3, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Good Cause, RNYM's Picks, Thoughts.., Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post, but awesome is awesome and you needed to know. All opinions expressed are my own.

We are a superhero family… If you follow my posts that’s no surprise. We have had hero birthday parties, attended comic book day, made superhero mugs for father’s day, and so much more. One thing that constantly tugs at me is that there is a GIANT lack of strong female characters that (E) can relate and look up to.

As if he read my mind, a friend and comic book aficionado, Gary Bloom, has started a campaign to release the perfect comic book series. There are strong female LEADS, no SEXY outfits, and zero gender LIMITATIONS. Heroes are heroes, female and male as equal counterparts, as it should be!

We adore Natasha Romanov (Black Widow) and can’t believe this campaign hasn’t already raised the money that it needs to get going. Who wouldn’t want that for their daughter? Who wouldn’t want their little girl learning to DEFEND herself, feeling STRONG, PROUD, SMART, and RESOURCEFUL?! I look forward to the opportunity to explain to my daughter that you don’t need a man to save you; you are capable! Men & women are partners in crime (or heroism); no gender superiority.

When Frozen was released, the parental boards overflowed with love for sisters who saved themselves. Anna wasn’t saved by a kiss; it was true love of a sibling! Here’s a chance to take that idea and magnify it tenfold! I’m a HUGE Disney fan (as are my children). I’d love to see them behind this, from the GROUND up! I mean, who better than the company who now owns both the MARVEL and STAR WARS franchises? Girls don’t have to be princesses… they have options, why not show them some?

Oh, right: they’re the ones who left Black Widow toys out of the plan.

While I’m not an aficionado of obscure comics, we do watch some offbeat titles, and I still can’t find many strong females. Sadly, the popular heroines are regularly scantily clad. While I like Wonder Woman, I’d never let my daughter walk out of the house like that. I can think of few that are strong AND dressed conservatively.

Gary (the man behind the comic) intends to change. He wrote HEROES and then chose genders. They won’t be named “-girl” or “-woman”, much like Black Widow and Firestar; they became Cinderhawk and Stonefish. Bricker and Raceway have no gender identifiers, why should the women?

Why is Gary so intent on doing this? He’s a good guy, but more so, he’s a dedicated, loving husband and dad. An avid reader of comics, and follower of heroes, he was bothered at the consistent portrayal of the females in such works. He’s creating characters that he would want his daughter to emulate… that I want my daughter to emulate….

Gary snuggling with daughter (V) the inspiration behind his comics.

To get this endeavor off of the ground Gary has a Kickstarter campaign and is SO close to his goal. He has 11 more days to achieve it so that the first comic can be printed and released. I’ve already made a donation, and put in my request for t-shirts for the whole family. That’s how certain I am that this will be AMAZING.

For more information you can check out his Facebook Page (click Here) where he posts information including other interviews and articles about him and his amazing fight for GENDER EQUALITY in the SUPERHERO world. There are also some descriptions and exclusive pictures of the characters themselves. To contribute to his kickstarter campaign ( every donation of even a dollar is helpful, and receives an incentive) please click here. I will of course keep you updated, I hope to someday be purchasing tickets to the Red Lance Movie, and a Halloween costume for (E) to be Cinderhawk.

Finding me Again…

Posted on July 21, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Reviews, RNYM's Picks, Specialty Items, Thoughts.. .

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

I do a lot of writing, and a lot of reviewing… I find that the most difficult things to write about are those that concern me. Of course, I am human, I am self-conscious, I am not perfect. I do however feel it necessary to share my most recent journey.

A while back I reviewed Fitness Kickboxing NY. I attended 3 classes and wrote about my experience. That was supposed to be it. After the classes were over I found myself upset that I would no longer be going to Fitness Kickboxing. But, I didn’t have the time, I felt guilty being away from the kids… I had all of the usual excuses…. Little did I know that I would enjoy the class so much that I would keep going. At first 2 times a week, and since then it has steadily increased. I am currently attending 5 days a week and missing it when I am not going on weekends.

I love it. I love the challenge, I love the camaraderie, I love the next day soreness, and of course I love the results. In 3 months I have lost 10 lbs (that was before I started behaving myself with my food), and have made VISABLE progress in problem areas. I have had TONS of comments. Friends and family have noticed so often that several of them have started coming with me. My clothing is fitting better, some not so much as I get too small and have to replace it ;0)

As a former athlete, I had basically given in and decided that my new role was as a mom, that I had a “new” body that was softer and rounder. I knew I could lose weight, but being limited as to what I can do as a result of my three knee surgeries, I didn’t think that I would ever return to my former shape. I was very wrong, I needed to find the right exercise. I am strong again. I stand up straighter, I have more confidence.

I have been so happy with my results that I have upped the ante. As a part of my training Amir is now sending me meal plans to follow. These meal plans (lessons on healthy eating that I now use for the whole family) paired with my training will really kick my results into high gear. I am so looking forward to that.

Classes are hard. I sweat (and love every minute). I am usually sore the following day, but I can now hold a plank for 45 seconds+. My muffin top is disappearing, and I am no longer ashamed to swim with my kids. There is also a room full of classmates who push you to make it through, and cheer you on.

Amir listens to his students. When we have a problem area that we would like to work on, he finds a way to build it into that day’s class, or the following day’s class. In fact, today Ashley and I stayed afterwards and completed a portion of a squat challenge together.

I attend the 6 am class. It’s the perfect way to start my day. I end up invigorated and ready to face the world. At the risk of sounding cliché I have to add that the energy built from exercising then carries me through the day. It gives me the necessary release to be happier with everything I do. RNYD is so pleased with my happiness that when I feel like I can’t attend or I have no time, he encourages me to go and happily takes the reigns with the kids. I no longer feel guilty, I now feel as though I am a good role model for my children, it’s important to take care of me too. They are learning through my actions that it’s important to be happy, it’s important to be healthy, it’s important to be active.

Here’s the really hard part…. my results… Here they are (remember I am still working)… while you look, take the time to notice not only how my body is becoming toned, tighter and smaller, but also my face. In April I am exhausted, and red in the face, looking like I am going to drop dead. NOW… sweaty, working hard, but smiling, and enjoying every moment.

Obviously I know that all things don’t work for everyone, for example, I get ridiculously bored riding the bike for long periods of time. I thrive on the dynamic nature of kickboxing. If you are intruigued and would like to give it a try, contact Amir at Fitness Kickboxing and give it a try, 3 trial classes is a mere $20, and it’s a fantastic investment in the most important asset you have, yourself.

For more information on Fitness Kickboxing you can call: 845-653-2488, visit their website: https://www.fitnesskickboxingny.com Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FitnessKickboxing?fref=ts or follow them on Instagram as well.

Condors Swimming- Summer Session 1 REVIEW

Posted on July 16, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Classes, Classes for Kids, Reviews, RNYM's Picks .

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

I promised further updates on (A)’s progress with the Condors so here we are.

I feel like I just wrote about Condors but as I mentioned last time, the summer sessions are two weeks 4 days a week. We just completed session 1 and had to continue on. Here’s why…

In his first month (A) overcame his fear of lessons and began putting strokes together and put his head under the water.
In his second month, (A) was able to swim a few strokes on his own with his head under water.
In our third session (A) has made the most amazing strides. Now that he has all of the basics down, the teachers are working on fine tuning. He has learned how to turn his head to the side when swimming freestyle. He has learned how to float and swim on his back unassisted, and they have introduced him to a THIRD stroke. The breast stroke.

(A)’s instructor teaches him the leg portion of the breast stroke.

I am impressed EVERY DAY when we attend classes. He made me buy him some goggles so that he can see with his head under water. I should mention as an aside that his teacher has the patience of a saint as he readjusts the goggles that constantly fill with water. I have NEVER had to drag him to a lesson. He smiles through the whole time and then begs for more.

(A)’s instructor fixes his goggles (again).

What has really blown me away is not just what happens in lessons. It’s what occurs when we are swimming for leisure. Safety is of course our foremost concern. Both of (A)’s grandparents have pools that we frequent. Although he is now tall enough to stand in the shallow ends we have always been and remain super careful. He hasn’t been really confident or able to swim, UNTIL NOW.

The kids sit together ready to jump into Gran and Grandpa’s pool.

This past weekend he shocked us (totally in a good way). He swam unassisted in the shallow end and then eager to show off his new skills, he jumped into the deep end (of course under supervision) and swam to the edge without assistance, SEVERAL TIMES. We are ALWAYS diligent about pool safety, but there is a lot of relaxation that occurred within me when I realized that he was able to swim to the side on his own.

(A) swims by himself while supervised (that’s the deep end).

Ashley was right from our first conversation. After about 3 sessions (sessions I should explain were months, and now two weeks at a time), he will be able to swim. He’s not perfect by any means and still has work to do. He needs to perfect his breathing and continue on his form. I absolutely trust that he will under the tutelage of the Condors instructors.

(A) really loves class and as long as he does we will continue. I have no Olympic aspirations for my son (even though that would be really fabulous) but what he has already gained from his experience with the Condors is priceless. RNYD and I have already discussed when (E) will begin (next September when she is 3). After watching (A) progress we know it is a must.

(A)’s biggest fan watches him swim, and looks forward to when she too can take lessons with the Condors.

For video of (A)’s latest progress visit our YouTube Channel (both in class and in his Gran’s pool).

For more information on Condors Swimming visit their website at: http://www.condors.org or email them at lessons@condorsswimming.com. Summer sessions are limited, there is still time to register for (most of) session 2 and all of session 3.

Money Momma-Eating on a Budget- Tip #3

Posted on July 15, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Contests, Food, Money Momma, Reviews, RNYM's Picks .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as our Money Momma, Jamie was invited for a meal with her family. All opinions expressed are her own.

Tip #3 – Make it a guy thing… or a girl thing

But DON’T bring everyone. Yes, I meant to say that. Not everyone in every family likes the same types of foods, making it difficult to expand the list of restaurants that work for your home. This actually can be turned into a “special” experience and save your family a little bit of money in the process. (T) loves to eat ribs and always begs me to go to Tony Romas on kids eat free night (Tuesday). I am not a huge meat eater and I don’t even have to look at a menu to know that there is not one single thing (R) will like. It’s a dilemma that every family has. No one wants to spend money dining out if not everyone is going to love the food. The solution… make it a guys night! Or a girls night… but don’t worry about splitting the family!! (R) and I will stay home, eat grilled cheese and do each others nails. (T) and (S) are off to the all mighty dinner experience at Tony Romas. The best part? Both kids think they are getting special time with us while we are only spending HALF of what we would normally spend on dinner. Since Tony Romas runs PLENTY of family specials all week long, it seemed fitting that the guys make a trip there during the Money Mommas dining on a budget series. (for purposes of writing this piece, I did attend the “guys night”)

We were seated right away despite the fact that we arrived at prime dinner time on a Saturday night. (S) was presented with a Kid’s menu that came with a pack of crayons so he could work his way through the pictures and games. I was pleasantly surprised by how big the booths were! I was carrying 3 people’s umbrellas, my usual mom bag, and a big bag of pillows that we had just purchased. Everything fit with lots of room to spare. The restaurant was packed with families. It was like a date night where kids are allowed. The atmosphere was festive yet calm, with a view to people watch in the mall if you desire. The wait staff was great with little (S) (age 3), even pausing to let him place his own drink order (lemonade of course). All of these points are great,but the real highlight of Tony Romas is basic… the food is delicious!

When ordering a main entree at Tony Romas, 2 sides come with the meal AT NO EXTRA COST! This is unusual for a steak house. Frequently, the sides are sold separately at an ala carte price. We asked them to bring out the sides on separate dishes so we could all taste a little of everything (no problem). (T) and (S) had a grand ol time eating their ribs together, which I should point out were two different types of sauces…one on each end. They actually have 7 sauces to choose from and (T) had a difficult time making up his mind! I’m not sure it really mattered though as most of the sauce wound up on (S)’s face as (T) taught him to eat ribs like a “man”. Tony Romas is well known for their steaks so I had the filet and I was not disappointed. In fact, I ate almost the entire thing. So much for me not being much of a meat eater. By the time I looked up the boys had finished a full rack of ribs and were wiping their hands and mouths with the warm, wet towels our waitress had brought over. I’m not sure where either of them found room to put it all considering they worked their way through a plate of calamari and an onion loaf earlier. That was the first time (S) had seen an onion loaf and every time he took a bite he clapped his hands.

The desert menu says it’s mini desserts but their was nothing mini about them! I can’t even imagine how big the full size must be. (T) and I devoured the red velvet cake, New York style cheesecake, and chocolate brownie in no time. All the of the cakes at Tony Romas are from Juniors bakery.

Tony Romas is now a definite family pick when we are looking to go somewhat more upscale, remain family friendly, and still know we are getting great value! Remember kids eat free every Tuesday and there are daily happy hour specials during the week.

Want to give Tony Romas a try? Now is your chance to win! Go to Rocklandnymom FB page, like, comment and share this post (or comment here) for a chance to win $25 toward a meal at Tony Romas!

Chuggington Comes to Kingston! June 13-28, 2015

Posted on June 16, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Out and about..., RNYM's Picks .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as we were invited to the event.

CMRR brings Chuggington™ to Kingston!

Popular theme train running weekends in June

Kingston, NY — June 10, 2015 — Catskill Mountain Railroad will host an immersive event inspired by the popular children’s television show Chuggington. On Saturdays and Sundays from June 13 through June 28, Chuggington: A Traintastic Adventure will bring the show to life as patrons are immersed in the world of Chuggington. Young “Trainees” who arrive at the Westbrook Station located in Kingston’s Herzog’s Plaza off Westbrook Lane, near exit 19 of the NYS Thruway will participate in a variety of activities, complete several challenges, and earn rewards for their participation.

Ernie Hunt, President of the Railroad, said the Chugginton program challenges young people to practice important life skills such as teamwork, safety, and leadership as they work hard to become the best “Trainee” they can be. The theme-based challenges include the popular characters Koko, Brewster and Wilson. In addition to the main event, CMRR will have music, face painting, temporary tattoos, a food court and other activities for families to enjoy.

Chuggington trains will depart seven times each day. Each ticket holder will have one train ride, but can then spend the entire day participating in the various activities scheduled. CMRR, which has made theme trains the most popular attraction in uptown Kingston for the last year, partners with other attractions in the region and visitors arriving for the Chuggington event will also be encouraged to check out other historic destinations in the city. More information on CMRR is available on the website at www.catskillmtrailroad.com and event and ticket details are available at cmrrevents.com. Updates may also be found on Facebook.

RNYM has 4 tickets to giveaway! Winner will be drawn 6/17/2015!!! To enter like, comment and share the Facebook post, or comment below! Winner will be chosen by third party website.

RNYM’s Father’s Day Gifts 2015

Posted on June 11, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in RNYM's Picks, Specialty Items, Thoughts.., Uncategorized .

Disclosure: These are a mix of sponsored and unsponsored posts. All opinions expressed are my own.

Here at RocklandNYMom we believe that moms and dads should be pampered and shown love an affection all year long. But, with Father’s Day quickly approaching we thought we would shout out our top favorite ways to make the special man (men) in your life feel special (these suggestions work for Grandfathers too of course!!). Plus these opportunities keep it local (which is always a plus in my book).

What to give the Dad or Pop who has everything…

1. T-shirt Quilt

When I did this for RNYD I was a little afraid he was going to kill me, but half of these were worn through and full of holes. He LOVES this quilt, and I do actually let him use it on the bed (sometimes). The back is minky fabric so its lightweight but warm and comfy! To order a quilt contact Taryn (tngrey@gmail.com).

2. Photos of HIM with the kids (doing something he likes)

I know it seems odd, but there is nothing more attractive than a man and his kids (or grandkids) and they need to be celebrated too.

3. TAKE OUT!!RNYD likes food, but isn’t a huge fan of going out. Why not order in something he really loves (plus Luigi’s is fantastic)?

4. Detail his Automobile

Really need I say more? Its his baby.

5. Take him out to the ball game!

http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/nym/fan_forum/kidsclub.jsp

Always a family favorite! Even if you aren’t a Mets fan this is a great value!

6. Take a trip!

http://www.crystalgolfresort.com/discover/events/303/

Mountain Creek really knows how to throw a party. Why not be a part of it?! Have a weekend away.

7. Take him to Dinner

Some delish grub and no need to clean up or set the table.

8. Made with Love

http://www.shutterfly.com/photo-gifts/pewter-key-ring?skuCode=916789

Have your kiddies create a work of art, scan it and have it made into this keychain!

**WE LOVE TO PAMPER DADS, LETS KICK OFF FATHERS DAY WITH A GIVEAWAY! GO TO OUR FACEBOOK PAGE AND FOLLOW THE RULES POSTED, OR COMMENT HERE TO ENTER TICKETS TO MOUNTAIN CREEK!!!***

*Drawing by third party website on 6/14/2015*

Dino Days- Trains and Dinosaurs!!

Posted on June 4, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Out and about..., RNYM's Picks, Specialty Items .

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

Dinosaurs and Trains, a day of Fun for the whole family, June 13th & 14th

Dinosaurs and Trains, two things kids love!!!

I don’t know about you, but my kids adore the television series “Dinosaur Train”. It has made available to them all kinds of scientific information that they would otherwise not understand at their ages. They also discuss dinosaurs in a way that isn’t scary, but interesting. I will never forget the day I came home and my 3 year old son explained why he was an omnivore! So when we saw this we HAD to go and review for you. What’s even better?! We have a GIVEAWAY!!!

Well, now you can experience both!!! Explore the world of Dinosaurs and Steam Trains in a day filled with family fun. Learn about Dinosaurs with world famous field paleontologists Mike and Roberta Straka. Enjoy Scott Wagstaff -Ventriloquist and his Zany animals for an entertaining and fun family show! Then, relax and play in their 40′ bouncy obstacle course, take pictures with a Giant T-Rex Dinosaur and meet and greet with Davey The Dinosaur.

Travel back in time on areal Steam Train to the Ol’ Susquehanna Mine located on the Snyder Farm in Carpentersville NJ. The Snyder Farm’s archaeological treasures are registered with the New Jersey State Museum and has been studied for many years by archaeologists from Temple University. Once at the Ol’ Susquehanna each guest takes the mine tour and learns about the unique history of the Ol’ Susquehanna Mine. After witnessing the exploding mine shaft and history tour guests learn how to pan for fossils! Each guest receives a bag of fossil bearing ore. There are over 20 different fossils along with a beautiful identifying card!

INCLUDED:

Steam train ride to the The Ol’ Susquehanna Mine – Panning for real fossils you can take home!
Temporary Tattoos – Dinosaur Train themed temporary tattoos to children’s faces, arms or hands at the Activity Area.
Spin Art Area – Make some wild creations with the spin art machine!
Dinosaur Show – Field Paleontologists Mike and Roberta Straka will take you on a scientific exploration highlighting the world of dinosaurs, fossils and rocks/minerals. Each summer, the team explores the Badlands of North and South Dakota excavating dinosaurs. This fun-filled wow-factor show will cover the formation of fossils and herbivores vs. carnivores. We will discuss our work as field paleontologist and our background in geology in a relatable way with entertainment, humor, magic and real fossils. The presentation will feature:

“Mr. Nixon”, a real eight foot Triceratops skull discovered by our team in 1996 and is 67 million years old
A real Albertosaurus skull will highlight the features of a carnivore.
Original music
Songs
Show & tell with rare fossils
A touch of magic which includes a special “egg magic trick” which segues to *presentation of a real dinosaur egg fossil
“Dinosaur Game Show” will round out the show.

Scott Wagstaff -Ventriloquist and his Zany Animal show!

Other amazing events are offered such as the Polar Express, The Knight Train, Thomas the Train and more!!! For more information or to purchase tickets visit: http://877trainride.com/dinodays.htm.

This just in! Visit our Facebook page or comment below and you could win a free ticket to ride!!! Drawing will be held on Monday June 8th 2015!! Drawing to be done by third party website.

June Vacation Ready 4 Week Fitness Challenge

Posted on May 27, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in RNYM's Picks, Specialty Items .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own. Stay tuned for my own results including photos of my transformation.

June Vacation Ready 4 Week Challenge!!!

For the month of June Amir and Coach Jessily are going to collaborate with a powerful eating and workout challenge. This includes an added on 15 minute bonus at most of the classes. You will get full access to all Kickboxing and T.B.C. classes for the month. We will have a surprise basket with a massage added on to it for the winner. Checkout the information for the challenge at http://www.fitnesskickboxingny.com/challenges.html

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