Category Archives: RNYM’s Picks

3 Great Ways to Unlize that Tax Refund (if you got one)

Posted on by Posted in Health and Wellness, In the Home, Money Momma, RNYM Savings!, RNYM's Picks, Rockland Real Estate, Uncategorized .

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post.  Those listed below are vetted directory members and we speak from experience.

It’s tax time.  If you are anything like us, you’ve got a decent refund coming and ideas for what you’d like to do with it, but MAY be unsure of who you can use  and trust to accomplish those things. Here’s a list of RNYM APPROVED places to use that savings to improve your life <3

Save it–

  • That’s cool we always try to sock away half- saving up for a vacation home on a lake someday.  We also spend $100 a month on gift cards to save up for the holidays, so now is a good time to get a jump on that.  Put some away for the other two options, and then maybe save up for something big like we are :o)

Travel-

  • We recently took our first REAL “family trip” to Disney- and let’s just say we are hooked.  The kids are PERFECT ages and were such an absolute pleasure that I am DYING to take them on our next adventure.  Picking a travel agent is NOT easy, but you need one knowledgeable, trustworthy and interested in the good time you will have.  I’ve used several locals and can honestly say that Scott Walters is your guy.  He saved me more than a few times for Disney. Best part?  You don’t pay extra for his assistance, you pay what you would if you booked it yourself, but you’ve got his help with the details!!

Here’s his info-

Scott Walters (845) 558-1225

scott@goawayoftentravel.com

http://www.goawayoftentravel.com

A full service travel agent specializing in family vacations to amazing destinations. From simple weekend getaways to multi generational once in a lifetime bucket list filling journeys, Go Away Often Travel can get you there. It’s YOUR VACATION, let me do the work!

Update and Upgrade the House-

  • For the 11 years that we have lived in our home we have used at least a portion of our refund to improve or update the house.  We’ve got a great directory members for that.  We have some of this that we have to do too. (It never ends does it?)

Northern Windows is Perfect for windows, siding, doors, insulation and so much more.  Steve is GREAT, candid, easy to talk to and has reasonable pricing.

The last has me <3

PURGE

I don’t know about you but I am DYING to clean out and organize right now… yeah we’ve got someone for that too!!!

Tel: (914) 230-6238

Clutter can be overwhelming and most don’t know where to begin- that’s where I come in!
My goal is to ease that anxiety, declutter your space and organize your home. 100% judgment free!
When you clear the clutter, your clear your mind!
Services:
Organizing, De-cluttering, Packing, and downsizing.
•Closets
•Bedrooms
•Playrooms
•Kitchens
•Mudrooms
•Garages + more!
Free Assessments
Fully Insured

 

 

Special things I planned before our big Disney Trip

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

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

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

Nails

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

New Fun Pajamas (Kept a secret)

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

Photo Mat

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

Pearl Cages

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

Dragon

Mermaid

Park Clothing

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

MHC Creations

Direct: (914) 645-5028

Email: Info@MHCCreations247.com

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

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

Purchased Items

Twirly Dress

Chewbacca Dress

Ariel Dress

Han Vest

Owen Vest

Meals

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

Luggage

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

Kids Luggage

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

Scott Walters (845) 558-1225

scott@goawayoftentravel.com

http://www.goawayoftentravel.com

RNYM’s 2019 Outdoor Bucket List

Posted on by Posted in Day Trips, Out and about..., RNYM's Picks, Things to Do! .

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.  Little (E) loves all things flowers, and (A) loves anything with rocks.  So, here’s our list of things we are DYING to do 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 #RNYMSummerBucketList

Afterwards because I am a teacher and everything is a learning experience, we are journaling about our experiences.  The kids will draw pictures and write about their favorite parts and if they want to do it again <3

Sea Glass Hunting at Palisades State Park

http://njpalisades.org/calendar/seaGlassHunt.html

Our Plan:  We are going to pack a picnic lunch, head down and harvest some sea glass, have lunch and come back.  Upon our return we are going to create a project with our finds.  For ideas visit our pinterest page complete with Summer Bucket List ideas!!!

Wildflowers at Brittany Hollow Farm

http://brittanyhollowfarm.blogspot.com

Our Plan: Little (E) is OBSESSED with flower picking right now.  We went down to Jills Ceramics and she made her very own vase (complete with family portrait) on it to keep in her room with her picked flowers.

Tulips at Holland Ridge Farm

https://www.hollandridgefarms.com

Our Plan: Little (E) is OBSESSED with flower picking right now.  This place looks AMAZING!!! I’ve been following them for a year and can’t wait.  Definitely looks like a full day. Great photo opportunity too!!!

Strawberry Picking at Fish Kill Farms

https://www.fishkillfarms.com

Our Plan:  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.

Blueberry Picking at Halfway Acres Farm

https://halfwayacres.com

Our Plan:  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.

Sunflower Picking at SunFlower Valley Farm

https://www.sunflowervalleyfarm.com/

 366 County Route 12, New Hampton, NY 10958

Our Plan: Little (E) is OBSESSED with flower picking right now.  This is the place we went last year and LOVED!! The dogs were welcome too (on leash) which was FABULOUS!  Great photo opportunity too!!!

Peach Picking at Prospect Hill Orchards

http://prospecthillorchards.com

Our Plan:  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.

Apple Picking at Apple Ridge Orchards

https://appleridgeorchards.com

Our Plan:  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.

Horseback Riding at Nickel O Farms

http://www.nickelofarms.com

Our Plan: BOTH kids have been begging to ride.  This is a fabulous local farm where we can go for a lesson. It’s a semi-hidden gem and does not only lessons but camp, scout opportunities, birthday parties AND volunteer hours.

Empire State Balloon Fest

http://empirestateballoonfest.com/announcing-the-2019-empire-state-hot-air-balloon-festival/

 

Our Plan:  This is a cheater one.  I’ve been dying to go and I know the kids will be mesmerized.  I’ve also got a friend who flies and told me this is the one to attend. If you head over find Vicki Ingrassia and tell her we said hi <3

Vicki’s Balloon

Lavender Field

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.

 

Communion Mini-Sessions

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

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

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

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

Local Theater Options

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

Theater is a culture and art all over the world. Of course NY is the most famous all over the world known for their stunning Broadway shows. Unfortunately seeing shows in NYC comes with a big price tag. Local theater is a great way to have some fun, support the upcoming actors and actresses as well as supporting the community. What is great about local theater is well its accessibility, also you don’t have to pay a fortune to see a great show. There is tons of varieties of shows, as well as some that are kid friendly. It is a great time for families to spend time together and enjoy the art of theater. Here is a list of local theaters you can take advantage of!

*We’ve gone ahead and bold-faced the ones that we suggest for kiddos.*

WPPAC 

Its a Bird… Its a Plane… Its Superman March 21-24

The Body Guard The Musical 4/26-5/12

Rodger and Hammerstein’s Cinderella 6/27-7/19

The Lion King Jr 8/5-8/16

Disney Aladdin Kids 8/19-8/23

The Disney Songbook- Royalty 8/26-8/29

Tickets and Information: https://wppac.com

Yorktown Stage 

Mamma Mia 4/26-4/28 

Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr. 7/27-7/28

Little Shop of Horrors 9/27-9/28 

Disney the Little Mermaid 11/23-12/1

Tickets and information: https://www.yorktownstage.org

Westchester Broadway Theater

Menopause the Musical 2/28-3/24 

Disney Newsies 3/28-5/26 *Special RNYM event 3/31 email Rocklandnymom@yahoo.com for details

On Your Feet 5/30- 8/4

Mambo Italiano 8/8-9/29 

An American in Paris 12/27/19-1/26/20

For tickets and information: https://www.broadwaytheatre.com/index.php?src=gendocs&ref=mainstage&category=shows

**If you call to order tickets- mention RocklandNYMom.com for a discount!!!

Irvington Town Hall Theater 

Annie 3/9-3/17

Chicago High School Edition 3/22-3/24

The Wizzard of Oz Jr. 4/6-4/7 

Imaginary US Premier 5/3-5/5 

Les Míserables School Edition 6/10-6/11 

Tickets and information: http://www.irvingtontheater.com/theatre

Paper Mill Play House

My Very Own British Invasion 1/31-3/3 2019

Benny and Joon 4/4-5/5 2019

Disneys Beauty and The Beast 5/29-6/30 2019

Tickets and information: https://papermill.org/shows-tickets/subscriptions/

Music Hall 

Westchester Circus Arts 2/18-2/19

Cumbia for Kids 3/9

Lard Dog Kid Koncert 4/6

Family Show Story Pirates 5/19

Family Show The Joshua Show

Tickets and Information: https://tickets.tarrytownmusichall.org/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_content=tickets&utm_campaign=8-23-2016

Local High School and Middle School Plays

South Orangetown Middle School: The Wiz 3/29-3/31

Nanuet High School: Pippin 3/8-3/9

Pearl River High School: Pippin 4/5-4/6

Nyack High School All Shook Up 3/15-3/16 7:30 PM

3/22-3/23 7:30 PM

3/23 1:30 PM

Pearl River Middle School Mary Poppins Jr 3/7-3/9 7 PM

 

Halloween Haunts 2018

Posted on by Posted in Halloween, RNYM's Picks, Uncategorized .

During the holiday season my kids love nothing more than to make some hot chocolate and drive around looking at the lights.  At 8 and 5 they are getting so much more into all the holidays, not just Christmas and this year they asked us to kick our Halloween decor a bit.  It was super fun to do and we love it. Since we put more effort into ours- we started noticing the decor at other people’s houses too!  We have made a list for you of places that we’ve found that you might enjoy!

This time (A) and (E) recommend making cups of hot apple cider, and driving around this weekend or next (in your skeleton pajamas of course).  See you out there!!!

New City

20 Irion Drive

Congers

88 South Congers Road

Nanuet

Convent Road

Pelham and East Allison

Declark Place

West Nyack

35 Pittsford Road

54 East Street

Foxwood Road

Pearl River

Center Street

Ablondi

Villa

South Orangetown

Parkway Drive

Blauvelt

103 West Erie Street

20 Buttonwood Place

Stony Point

30 Knapp Road

Jersey

https://www.facebook.com/events/1127441797447231/ 

https://www.facebook.com/RidgewoodHalloweenMaze/?__tn__=%2Cd%2CP-R&eid=ARDmFGk8n5f7hz5JsNgvVaBBo97vBmR5ShJKJ2_aTzfdVThcQYYBmYrgf9i5L0zg9xEXe2mfUEUWTxdR

Teaching More than Music

Posted on by Posted in Classes, Classes for Kids, Reviews, RNYM's Picks, Uncategorized .

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

Last week we walked into our regular drum lesson at New City School of Music ready to rock with (A)’s teacher Andrew.  (A) really looks forward to them.  While we were waiting for Andrew to come in to get us (A) often likes to look at the trophies to see who is testing this coming month.  We hadn’t even realized it had been a year since (A) started lessons, until he found the trophy that adorned his name.

When we walked into our lesson (A) brought it up and Andrew checked his records.  Yep it was time.  He offered (A) two choices.  Try to earn it right then and there- pop quiz style, or go home to prepare and test the following week.  I was really unsure which he would choose, then he picked pop quiz.  Although I was super excited that he was feeling so self assured, I was immediately nauseous.  If he was nervous he didn’t look it one bit.

Andrew gave his assignment and he was off to the races.  He made it through, but it was a little choppy and he had to stop once or twice when he first started to begin again.  Really though, he did really well for a kid who was taking a pop quiz.  Andrew concurred, then surprised me (pleasantly).   He asked (A) how he thought he did, to which (A) replied “OK”.

Andrew asked if it was the very best he could do.  (A) replied that no, he could do better with some preparation.  Then Andrew told him that technically he had gotten enough of it right to earn the trophy, but offered him two more choices.  He could take the trophy home that day having met the minimum requirements, or he could go home and prepare.  Come back next week, and nail it.

(A) thought for a moment (how tempting it must have been) then said that he would rather practice and then knock it out of the park.  Andrew and I were both pleased with this decision.  They went on with their lesson.  During this lesson they had a chance to “jam” together and it was awesome.  Andrew gave him his assignment when we were leaving and said he knew (A) was going to kill it.  (A) vowed to practice hard.

And practice he did.  Every night he went into his room and prepared, asking RNYD to go in with him and listen to make sure he was doing it well.

This past Monday (A) headed back to class ready to rock it.  I couldn’t be there because I had back to school night (which is apparently pointless without the teacher).  RNYD accompanied him.  I kept checking my phone to see how it went, and low and behold 10 minutes into the lesson I got the message.  He nailed it, followed by two ecstatic photos.  When I got home, he was really excited to tell me all about it.  I am so proud of him.

I’m also so super glad that Andrew and The New City School of Music have the same type of values that we have in our house.  (A) didn’t get that trophy just because he reached the 1 year mark.  He didn’t get it because he met the minimum requirement, nor because he tried and he should be rewarded for that.  He received the trophy as a reward for hard work, for practicing.  He earned it.  So did Andrew.  In giving (A) options, and letting him take ownership of his progress, he taught him way more than the drums.  He taught him that things worth doing are worth doing right, that hard work pays off, and that you shouldn’t settle for the minimum.  He showed (A) what he was capable of with practice.  I can’t wait to see where this goes next <3

Home Upgrades (bill downgrades) with Northern Windows

Posted on by Posted in Reviews, RNYM Savings!, RNYM's Picks, Services, Uncategorized .

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

Like many other Rocklanders right now I am frustrated.  My O&R bill has always been on the higher side, but I do own a 1950’s ranch with no insulation, just fiberglass in the attic.  In the past 3 months my bill has jumped yet ANOTHER $200.  Which leaves me thinking- is my house that inefficient?  Why all of the sudden has it jumped up that much?  What can I do about it?  Enter Steve Murray of Northern Windows, Siding, Roofing and Insulation.  He’s a RNYM directory member and honestly one of the nicest guys I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting.  I gave him a call and was able to meet two days later at my house.  I was ready to hear that there was nothing I could do because my walls are plaster- but what I got was truly an education.

First of all Steve recommended doing an efficiency audit-which there is a local program available to have it done for free (or close to it).  During this audit they will seal up the house and check to see where the most energy is lost (CLICK HERE).  You can choose an approved contractor or they will choose one for you (Northern Windows is one of them, and the one i’m using).  He suggested doing that before making changes to see which would be the most pressing for our case.  In fact, at the end of the assessment, the improvements are ranked for you in terms of best Return on Investment (ROI), which I can’t wait to see.

We DID know our front doors are old and inefficient as at least one is the original 1951 version where you can see around it and almost through it in some places.  So we talked doors.  Steve has tons of options, lots of attractive ones, and we talked looks for a while.  I was nervous because I was estimating quite a large number for them both (like RNYD would never let it happen), but I was pleasantly surprised.  I was able to easily find efficient doors that I liked the look of, for what I consider very reasonable pricing.

There are also a few great perks:

  • They are guaranteed for life.
  • The doors have composite jambs so they won’t rot from weather from the inside out like doors of old.
  • The fiberglass won’t melt in the sun (I swear I had heard that somewhere).
  • The doors don’t get cold or hot to the touch because they are insulated throughout.
  • Steve’s crew takes all the debris and old door away- changes out the frame- and uses aluminum capping on the outside.
  • There are low E options for doors with windows.

I loved how honest Steve was with me about the doors, and also about the look that would compliment my house the best.  In his time on the job he has almost seen it all.  The books have something for everyone’s taste and budget.  The meeting with Steve is very low key, he’s not pushy in any way, and is happy to answer questions before, during and after the meeting so that you feel at ease.  Mostly, he wants you to be happy.  A parent and a homeowner himself, he is concerned with the same issues you are and will happily tell you about his own experiences with efficiency in his own (older- read less efficient) home.

We’ve got our assessment scheduled to take a look at our houses overall efficiency, but have a definite plan in place for the doors within the year.  I’ve picked the ones I like and know the budget now to save for.  I also know who I am using.  In fact, our short list includes a new window or two in the basement, and when I do the doors, i’ll add those on too.

I am really very appreciative for the education I received during our meeting and can’t wait to see more about my home when we do the assessment, especially if it means sending less of my paycheck to O&R each month.  I promise to keep you updated on our progress.  As always, if you give Steve a call, we appreciate letting him know you heard about him here. :O)

 

Back to School Shopping at Macy’s Backstage!

Posted on by Posted in Items, Out and about..., Reviews, RNYM Savings!, RNYM's Picks, Uncategorized .

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

Like many other locals I was wondering what the new Macy’s Backstage was.  We’ve all shopped Macy’s for years as its been an anchor store in the Nanuet mall FOREVER, and also at the Palisades mall since it was built.  The great options, service, and availability of products at Macy’s is well known, but what is this new store within a store?

“The thrill of the hunt takes center stage as you discover your favorite fashion & home brands at show-stopping prices!”

Its the same great Macy’s that we all know in love, but with higher discounts on the same famous maker brands you’ve become accustomed to from Macy’s, as well as some new ones.  Knowing that it was a discount retail space, we were excited to hunt for some awesome finds.

The shoe section is right near the entrance so naturally little miss (E) had to hit that spot.  They had a nice selection in her size, so she tried a few, settling on two pairs.

The kids section at the Palisades Macys Backstage is over by a little toy section as well, that’s where we found (E)’s favorite item.  Little (E) needed earphones for school and they had these adorable little my little pony ones that she snatched right up.


Then we went through the racks to see what they had for back to school clothing.  This can always be an interesting afternoon with (E) who has her own sense of style.  At 8 (A) is also developing more of his own style, it was nice to watch him choose some staple pieces.

We found some cute stuff and headed into the dressing rooms.  The kids had fun trying on their items, and then they saw the signs on the wall.  They loved them!  We had to run from room to room to see what they said!!


At checkout we were given a scratch off coupon and saved $5!  We got 2 pairs of shoes, headphones, and 5 shirts for less than $90!!! What a bargain!!

Macy’s Backstage also has backpacks, home items, adult clothing, accessories, all the great items that the regular Macy’s carries, but at super low prices.  We are also lucky enough to have two locally to check out (Nanuet and Palisades- we went to Palisades).

GIVEAWAY

** As a special introduction to our readers Macy’s Backstage Palisades is giving away a $100 gift card to one lucky winner.  To enter- comment on this page or our social media post before Saturday 9/1 at 8 pm and tell us what you would use the card on (we’d also love a share and a like). Winner will be chosen at random via 3rd party website. **

 

 

Back to School Fun 2018

Posted on by Posted in RNYM's Picks .

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

Back to School?  STOP IT NOW!
That’s what the teacher (and mom) in me wants to scream right now.  It’s just August as I type and I am already head spinning.  Camp ends this week, vacation next week, then back to the house to get ready for a new year.  

Do our jeans fit? What style are we into now? What supplies are needed? How can I make it special? Are our bookbags shot? What will we eat on the first day? How will I deal with the new schedule (dance, drums, soccer, religion).  I never even finished cleaning and organizing the house!!!  AHHHHHHHH!

Ok so I am an over thinker, aren’t we all??  Well, here’s what i’ve done for you.  Taken my overthinking and put it all in one place to hopefully help you check off some of the above with less stress.

MHC Creations

Find something special to send your littles off to school in style <3

MHC School 3
MHC School 3
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http://mhccreations247.com/

Direct: (914) 645-5028

Email: Info@MHCCreations247.com

https://www.facebook.com/mhccreations247/

Sparkle Up

Head on over to see Debbie and get a fresh cut for back to school first day photos!!!  Plan to spend some time as you can have a cut, style, nails, sparkle tattoo and play dress up!  Bring a friend and beat the RAIN (which we can’t seem to escape these days).



8 second street new city ny 10956
634-0140
www.sparkleupparties.com
sparkleup@me.com 

Kennedy Grey Designs

www.kennedygreydesigns.com

Little Miss loves the stuff from #Kennedygrey you see her in it often- we have our own discount code: RockMom20 – but make sure you order soon as it takes 2-4 weeks to get these items in.

 

Macy’s Backstage Palisades

**GIVEAWAY ALERT** Stay tuned we are going to review Macy’s Backstage Palisades when we go back to school shopping and we may (wink wink we DO) have a giveaway for a special reader <3

Macy’s Backstage offers fashion-loving customers another way to shop at their favorite store by providing a store-within-store shopping experience featuring significant savings on fabulous finds.  The new outlet store  at Palisades Center will have approximately 15,200sqft of dedicated retail space and will live on the second level.  The grand openings will be celebrated with giveaways for the first 200 customers and special events throughout the day- September 1.

My #princessemmie can’t wait to go see what she can find!

Wildflowers

Most recent clothing obsession is this new brand that is made really well, adorable, and also gives back to some great charities.  Hosting a virtual pop up –https://www.facebook.com/events/290874801723344/?ti=icl   Starting Tuesday 8/28 for 72 hours so check it out.

IC You Photography- Back to School Minis

Looking for something a little different? Don’t love how your school pics come out?  Homeschooling?  Here is a fabulous option from our directory member!!

Luigi O’Gradys

I don’t know about you- but I do NOT want to cook the first week of school as we settle into a new routine.  I always rest easy knowing that Luigi O’Gradys has hearty and healthy meals I can order and bring home to the family on those crazy first nights. What’s even better?  Week by week people can sign up to have a percentage of their family meal deals go to a local charity (Michelle announces them each week).  If you have a charity or group that could use the funds reach out <3.

Organizing supplies:

This one I did myself- I used to have a 5 drawer tower with M-F on it so the appropriate items were there when we needed them, but they were bulky and not being used so instead I stocked up on some letters for the days we have activities, and some 3M hooks so that I could put the appropriate items hanging from the hooks to be grabbed on those days.

Enrichment Opportunities

Don’t forget your kids classes!!! We have a directory of classes including swim, music, dance and more- a great place to find all your enrichment (and educational) needs!!  http://rocklandnymom.com/directories/classes-for-kids/

***As always we appreciate you letting people know you read it here first!!!***