Rockland NY Mom
  • About this Site
    • Privacy Policy & Disclosure
  • Savings for RNYM.com Readers!
  • Currently loving….
    • Feeding Baby
    • BabyCare 101
  • Directories
    • Pregnancy and Babies
    • Camps Directory 2023
    • Childcare/Pre-School Directory
    • Classes Directory
    • For the Home
    • Direct Sales Directory
    • Party Directory
    • Party Entertainment Directory
    • Photographers Directory
    • Family Services Directory
    • Crafters Directory
    • Specialty Items Directory
    • Play Ball
  • A Good Cause
  • I’m Going on a Trip…
    • Theater
  • We’re having a party….
  • RNYM’s Favorite Recipes
  • Become Part of RocklandNYMom
  • RNYM in the News!
  • Christmas 2019

Category Archives: Uncategorized

23rd Annual New York Transit Museum Bus Festival

Posted on September 19, 2016 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Out and about..., Things to Do!, Uncategorized .

bus-festival

23rd Annual New York Transit Museum Bus Festival 

Vintage buses, special activities, and all the excitement of the Atlantic Antic! 

Sunday, September 25, 11am – 6pm 

The New York Transit Museum’s annual Bus Festival returns on Sunday, September 25! See and step aboard selections from the Museum’s vintage fleet representing more than 80 years of New York City surface transit history. Located on Boerum Place between State Street and Atlantic Avenue in Downtown Brooklyn, the event is free and open to the public from 11am to 6pm alongside the festivities, food, and fun of the 42nd Annual Atlantic Antic.

Toys and transit merchandise will be available and families are invited to participate in an interactive scavenger hunt, work on a communal “Build-A-City” art project and visit the Transit Museum’s “Education Depot” tent, where singing and storytelling will take place throughout the day. Guests will even have the opportunity to meet costumed historical characters and hear stories from when the buses on display were in service!

bus-festival-3

Throughout the day, admission to the Transit Museum will be just $1. Inside the Museum, a temporary tattoo station will be available and Educators will display transit artifacts from the Museum’s collections as part of an interactive “Hands-On History” activity. The Museum will be open from 11am to 5pm, with last admission at 4:30pm.

Some of this year’s special guests include:bus-festival-2

·         Bus 3100 – A Fifth Avenue Coach Company prototype bus, this vehicle debuted in 1956 as one of the first air-conditioned transit buses nationwide. Designed and built as an experiment, the General Motors Model 5106 features a push-type rear exit door, wrap-around soft seating in the rear, and fluorescent lighting.

·         Bus 9098 – Part of the last order of “Old Look” style buses from General Motors in 1958, this model introduced the two-tone green color scheme, which later became a standard for the era, and was among the first buses to be outfitted with fiberglass seats and sliding windows.

·         Bus 236 – Part of the first order of buses with electronic destination signs, this 1980 Grumman model represents the arrival of a new generation of buses known as the “Advanced Design Buses” (or ADB).

·         Bus 1502 – One of 25 “New Look” buses ordered by the New York Bus Service in 1981, these vehicles were equipped with suburban bus features, including forward-facing seats on platforms, parcel racks, reading lights, and a single door.

 Some of the work vehicles to be on display include:

 ·         Tunnel Wrecker – Nicknamed “the Monster of the Tunnels,” this unusual emergency truck was built to move disabled vehicles in the Hugh L. Carey and Queens-Midtown Tunnels. Square in shape, it is equipped to tow everything from a compact car to a tractor-trailer.

 ·         Tunnel Wash Truck – This vehicle is used to wash the inside walls and ceiling at the Hugh L. Carey and Queens-Midtown Tunnels.

 NOTE: Equipment on display is subject to change.

  •  What:             23rd Annual Bus Festival
  •  When:             Sunday, September 25, 11am – 6pm
  •  Where:           At Atlantic Antic on Boerum Place between State Street and Atlantic Avenue
  •  Admission:     Bus Festival – Free!
  •                         NY Transit Museum Admission – $1, last admission at 4:30pm
  • More Information:    www.nytransitmuseum.org/BusFest

You Pick Apples 2016!

Posted on September 2, 2016 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Ashley's Lists, Uncategorized .

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

-Ashley Carmichael

Screen Shot 2016-08-20 at 7.54.08 AM
Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 10.01.40 AM

Can you believe it is already Apple Picking Season?
Below is a list of local orchards for picking delicious apples.
Pack a picnic and make a it a family fun day!…with a few great options for a fun fall day without the kids, as well!

Be sure to call ahead to double check hours, pricing, activities and apple availability.

 

Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.38.20 AM
Dr. Davies Farm

Route 304 Congers, NY
845-268-7020
DrDaviesFarm.com
Facebook Page
The Orchard farm has been family run since 1891.
-2 farms stands – on 9w and 304 in Congers, with a great array of home grown fruits and veggies
-Hayrides through the orchard on the weekend
-Tractors to climb and play on for some adorable photo opps.
Just a heads up this farm is CASH ONLY!
Hours: Everyday 10am-4pm


Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.38.37 AM

Orchards of Concklin
2 South Mountain Rd., Pomona (845) 354-0369
OrchardsofConcklin.com
Facebook Page
On the weekends they have:
-bounce houses
-kids haunted house
-food truck
– A farm market open each day with fresh veggies, fruits, home made pies, donuts, cider, cakes, cookies and so much more.
Hours: 8am – 6pm

ORANGE COUNTY

Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.38.44 AM
Apple Ridge Orchard
101 Jessup Rd., Warwick
845-987-7717
AppleRidgeOrchards.com
Facebook Page
Opening on September 3rd – they will begin their apple picking season.
-hay wagon rides
-friendly farm animals
-corn maze
-Farm stand to taste the yummy honey, fresh apple cider, apple cider donuts, apple butter, fresh preserves, and more.
-Bee Observation Hives to watch how the bees are making the delicious honey they sell!
Hours: Sat., Sun and all holidays open 9am -6pm.

Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.38.52 AM
Mr Apples Orchard

25 Orchard Street Box 98, High Falls
845-687-0005 or 845-687-9498
This orchard is a friendly small town orchard.
Proud to use low spray of the apples, and no herbicides in the soil.
Hours: Call ahead


Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.39.01 AM
Lawrence Farms


306 Frozen Ridge Rd, Newburgh
845.562.4268
lawrencefarmsorchards.com
Facebook Page
Not only do they have apples available for U-Pick – they also have a large variety of vegetables and other fruits as well! Call ahead for availability!
On the weekends:
-horse-drawn carriage ride around the beautiful scenic farm. – indulge in some locally made ice cream and home made doughnuts.
-Be sure to say Hi to the show chickens and goats.
Hours: Everyday 9am-4pm


Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.39.07 AM
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 enjoy a family day under the shade of the apple trees!
-pony rides
-horse drawn wagon rides
-a family friendly haunted house
-face painting
-apple maze
-and music performances
-Snack barn with pizza, locally made ice cream, hot and cold beverages, farm-fresh cider, freshly made apple cider donuts and of course, freshly baked apple pie.
Hours: 9am-5pm – the country store as well!


Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.39.13 AM
Apple Dave’s Orchard

82 Four Corners Rd., Warwick NY
845-986-1684
applewoodorchards.com
Facebook Page
Formerly Applewood Orchards, Apple Dave’s has over 11 varieties of apples.
-Wagon rides
-Music and puppet shows
– Farm store with cider, jams, jellies, herbs and fresh seasonal produce.
-An extra for the adults – visit the Applewood Distillery and Winery.
Hours: Everyday (starting beginning of September) 9am-5pm

 

 Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.39.21 AM
Ochs Orchard
4 Ochs Lane Warwick, New York 10990
845-986-1591
Ochsorchard.net
Facebook Page
-Pick your own flower garden.
-Small Petting Zoo
-Gazebo makes the perfect setting for a fall picnic
-A Farm Market with seasonal veggies, jams, butter, jellies, eggs and of course apple cider.
Hours: Picking days change weekly – call ahead.


Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.40.55 AM

Pennings Orchard

169 State Route 94 South, Warwick, NY
845-986-7080
Penningsorchard.com
Facebook Page
Beginning September 3rd!
-farm animals
On certain weekends there are:
-hayrides
-live music
-pony rides
-kiddie maze
-cow milking contest!
Be sure to call ahead for a schedule of events.
Looking for a date day with out 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


Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.39.31 AM
Weed Orchards Winery
43 Mt Zion Rd, Marlboro, NY
845-236-2684
thewineryatweedorchards.com
Facebook Page
A Family owned Orchard and Winery
-Pick Your Own Apples, and produce!
Check their website for a list of what’s available for picking before you go!
Another great spot for a day without the kids! 
Stop by the Winery and taste some NY made wine, beer and cider.
Hours: Everyday 10am-5pm

Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.39.37 AMWarwick Valley Winery and Distillery

114 Little York Road, Warwick
845-258-4858
wvwinery.com
Facebook Page
Another great pick for a day out for Mom and Dad – 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!
-tractor ride to and from the orchard
-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

BERGEN

Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.39.47 AM
Demarest Farms

244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale, NJ 07642
201-666-0472
DemarestFarms.com
https://www.facebook.com/demarestfarm/?fref=ts
Demarest farms is the only Pick Your Own orchard in Bergen county!
– hayrides
– farm animals to pet and feed
– corn maze
– 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

DUTCHESS

Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.39.55 AM
Barton Orchards

63 Apple Tree Ln, Poughquag, NY 12570
845-227-2306
Bartonorchards.com
Facebook Page
Barton Orchards is a great spot for a Fall Family Day!
-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

Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.50.01 AM
Greig Farms
227 Pitcher Lane, Red Hook, NY
845-758-1234
GreigFarm.com
Facebook Page
This farm has been open to the public for 60 years.
– Pick your own fruits and vegetables – Call ahead for availability
– Goats to feed and a koi pond.
– Weekly farmers market on Saturdays from 10-6.
Hours: Everyday 9am-6pm

WESTCHESTER

Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.40.06 AM
Wilkens Fruit and Fir stand

1335 White Hill Road
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
(914) 245-5111
Wilkensfarm.com
Facebook Page
-tractor rides to and from the orchard
-farm market with donuts, pies, cookies and more! – you can also call your bakery order in ahead of time!
-Market also has hotdogs, popcorn, cider, coffee and other snacks available
Hours: U-Pick: 10am-4:30pm Markets: 10am-5pm


Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.40.13 AM
Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard
(formerly Outhouse Orchards)
130 Hardscrabble Rd. North Salem, NY 10560
914-485-1210
harvestmoonfarmandorchard.com
Facebook Page
-Hay rides around the farm
-bounce houses
-apple games
-live music
-pony rides
-face painting
-yummy food vendors
Hours: Everyday 8am-6pm


Screen Shot 2016-08-21 at 9.40.23 AM
Stuarts Farm

62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs, NY
914-245-2784
StuartsFarm.com
-Hayrides on the weekends
-Farm stand with fresh produce, pies and donuts.
Be sure to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the view.
(Tell Bob and Betsy we say Hello!)
Hours: Everyday 10am – 6pm

 

Amy Goes to Kentucky- A Road Trip Survival Guide!

Posted on August 31, 2016 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Out and about..., Travel, Uncategorized .

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

By Amy Alinkofsky

Let me start by saying that my favorite way to travel is by cruise ship.  I may sound like I’m advertising, but they are like floating resorts.  You get on, you unpack and the ship takes you to your destination.  While you’re on it, there’s unlimited food, entertainment for all ages, etc.

Planning for a road trip takes a lot more work! We already had one under our belt, and decided to take a leap for a longer one this past spring break.

When our very good friends moved to Lexington, Kentucky, we joked that we would never see them again. Lexington is an 11 hour drive (without stops). When it came time to plan our spring vacation we decided to go for it!  To break up the trip we planned a visit with my Sister along the way in Ohio. We had already driven the 8.5 hours last year, and knew we could handle that in one day.

So here is how we broke it down:

  • Sunday – 8.5 hours  drive to Ohio,
  • Tuesday-Friday – 3.5 hours – Lexington, KY
  • Friday – 3.5 hours – head back to Ohio
  • Saturday – 7 hours – drive from Ohio to Cherry Hill, NJ
  • Sunday – 2 hours –  Cherry Hill, NJ to home

Amy Car Travel 1

Being silly in the car with J.  L is peeking out from the 3rd row.

Here are some things I learned:

  1. Make sure you research your route – especially for rest stops with rest rooms! We learned on our first road trip that Pennsylvania exits are few and far between, and very few with rest areas.  We were pleasantly surprised to find that new rest areas had been opened about every 35 miles along our route. Some of these rest rooms even had “Mommy and me” stalls with 2 toilets, one full size and one kid size which made bathroom stops a little less worrisome.
  2. Add on time for extra stops –5 hours with a 9 year old and 4 year old is really more like 10 hours, if not more. We planned ahead for meal breaks and bathroom breaks, but we ended up stopping a few extra times – kids are unpredictable.
  3. Pack snacks and drinks – Avoid breaking the bank by paying gas station/rest area prices for them or having to stop every time a child wants one. Make sure they aren’t too messy.   My kids enjoy GoGo Squeez, Gogurt, Bananas, Goldfish.  Here is a link to a great resource for road trip snacks and how to pack them – https://www.pinterest.com/pin/432697476681180609/
  4. Related to number 3…Always have wipes and napkins on hand.
  5. Bring plenty of entertainment for the kids – We only have one DVD player for the car, and only use it on long drives. My girls are 5 years apart and don’t love all the same movies. We took DVD’s out from the library in advance and compromised. They also did not sleep in the car at all, so when one didn’t want to watch the DVD, it was crucial to have alternate activities to keep them entertained – coloring, reading (for the 9 year old), ipad games, etc. Each of my girls packed a backpack with her favorites and kept it next to her in the car.
  6. Pack extra clothes – We were able to do laundry at my sister’s house, so I didn’t pack as much as I normally would have, but I still had extra just in case. I learned my lesson back when we travelled during potty training! Be sure to include sweatshirts, hats, umbrellas – you never know what the forecast will bring. It was a bit cooler on our last day in Kentucky, but very sunny, so we were glad we had the extras.
  7. ALWAYS bring sunscreen!

Amy Car Travel 2

L rocking her Mets and Boulders gear at Kentucky Horse Park.

All in all, we had a great trip – some highlights were:

  • Columbus Zoo and Aquarium – https://www.columbuszoo.org/

Reasonable admission, enough activities for the whole day and you can bring your own food and drinks

Amy Car Travel 3

 We loved being able to view the polar bears from below!

  • COSI – Center of Science and Industry, Columbus – http://cosi.org/

This is our second time visiting, but it’s a must if you are in the Columbus area.  Lots to see and do including a planetarium!

Amy Car Travel 4

  • Louisville Slugger Museum, Louisville, NY – http://www.sluggermuseum.com/

We had a great time here, although it meant even more time in the car (it’s about an hour from Lexington).

You get to see from start to finish how baseball bats are made for major league players, plus fun interactive baseball activities and a Ripley’s believe or not museum.

Amy Car Travel 5

  L and J with Captain America in front of Louisville Slugger.

  • Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, KY – http://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/

FREE tours and tastings at the longest continually operating bourbon distillery – Kids are welcome, and got to taste Root beer instead of bourbon. 

  • Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington, KY – http://www.kyhorsepark.com/

Pony and horseback rides, shows, races, museums – this place is THE place to learn about and see horses!  And it’s huge, so you can spend an entire day

Amy Car Travel 6

 J enjoying her pony ride, the one thing she wanted to do most.

If you or someone you know is planning a family trip to Kentucky- be sure to check out the unbelievably helpful family fun sites in the area.  We HIGHLY recommend Louisvillefamilyfun.net and Kentukyfamilyfun.net!

I’m in no rush to spend that much time in the car anytime soon, but we had a great trip and I definitely learned a lot along the way so our next trip should go much more smoothly!  The best part was that we got to spend our vacation together as a family and the girls had a blast visiting their friends and their Aunt.

 

 

Sabrina’s Murals and the Nursery of my Dreams!

Posted on August 29, 2016 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Crafts and More Crafts, In the Home, Reviews, RNYM's Picks, Services, Specialty Items, Uncategorized .

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

-Ashley Carmichael

3rd baby, and finally the nursery of my dreams!

When I had my first son, we were living in a one bedroom apartment and I used an alcove as the nursery. When I was expecting my 2nd son we were living with my parents, so we used an extra room for his crib and dresser, never really making much of it. Now, as I am expecting my 3rd (and my last), I had the urge to have a ‘perfect’ nursery.  In doing so, my goal was to keep the baby room as budget friendly as possible. To accomplish this feat I planned to try to DIY, and recycle as much as I could.

 

Paint the room. 

While my husband and I were debating on colors to paint the walls of the baby room, I stumbled upon posts from Sabrina’s Murals on Facebook. WOW. I was instantly in love with her work! So naturally, I jumped on Pinterest for ideas. I sent Sabrina a message and set up a time for her to come see the room and talk out ideas.

Sabrina is the sweetest, a total breeze to work with, she is always smiling! I explained loosely with some ideas I found online that I was looking to do trees, stars, and a moon – like a forest scene. She was very honest about design concepts, color schemes and how to make it work in the room.   Since the room is small, and the design I wanted was complicated, we decided only to do a small portion of the room to not over do it.

Her ideas were so spot on, I couldn’t resist booking her!

A few weeks later, she emailed me a sketch of the mural and I melted! It was exactly what we had discussed.  She arrived the next morning at 9am. Sabrina told me to come in through out the day to see the progress, but I wanted to wait for the big reveal! She finished around 4:30pm – seems like a long day to have someone in your house – but I honestly didn’t even know she was there!

The mural is PERFECT! I am so in love with the colors – exactly what I wanted. And the peaceful ambiance it brings to the room – is also exactly what I wanted. She even offered to come back after we had the baby and paint the babies name on the wall.

IMG_5127Sabrina with her masterpiece. 

IMG_5128

IMG_5130

I find myself just sitting in the nursery when I need a few minutes of peace from the crazy chaos. I just love it.

Alphabet Frame

RNYM has this adorable alphabet on the wall in her playroom that I just love! (http://rocklandnymom.com/category/playroom-project/) So again I found myself on Pinterest working off this idea and found an idea for an alphabet that I thought would work. I ordered the wooden letters off of Etsy (https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheMonogramCompanySE?ref=l2-shopheader-name – letters arrived quickly!) and Sabrina left me the paint samples of the teal colors from the mural so I was able to match the color of the letters to the trees in the mural.

IMG_5469
IMG_5468

It was important to me to include the boys in the projects for the baby’s room to
help them feel included.  They loved picking the letters to paint – and we worked on letter recognition in the process. 

I happened to have a large framed mirror lying around that was intended for a different project, but it was the perfect size to frame the letters. I matched the grey colors to the trees of the mural and painted the frame. I relaxed in the rocking chair and let hubby do the hanging – using small poster size command strips to hang the wooden letters.

IMG_6941Making sure his spacing was even.

Blanket Ladder
I love blanket ladders. So much easier than folding the hundreds of baby blankets you have, plus it doubles as decoration.

RNYM again to the rescue with a ladder she found on the side of the road. We (and by we I mean my wonderful Husband) sawed it in half, power washed, and sanded it down. I had left over paint from the walls and mural – easy! And it looks perfect in the room. Just by coincidence, the majority of my gender neutral blankets from my boys are teal and grey – perfect match.

IMG_6949 IMG_6957
My boys hard at work. 

Closet Organization
Since the room is a bit small, we decided not to buy a dresser/armoire. I had hanging shoe organizers, and found baskets at the dollar store that fit perfectly in the slots. Great for holding onesies, burp clothes, tiny baby socks.  The baskets even fit great on the changing table.

Ashley Closet

Sonogram Photos
Photobarn.com was having a special promotion on free wooden photo prints (they do this often so if you are a photo junkie go sign up), and I was looking for some more wall decor…I couldn’t resist!  I ordered 2, used my sonogram photos, and they look adorable!

IMG_7288

The perfect gift from an amazing friend!
I knew she was up to something, she always is 😉 She had been asking me for a pair of jammies from when each of the boys were infants. I found a pair for each, that reminded me of when they were tiny and cuddly.

A few weeks later she surprised me with these amazing ELEPHANTS (which I happen to love)! This wonderful Etsy Shop – (https://www.etsy.com/listing/291624967/memory-elephant-handmade-elephant) took the boys jammies and sewed them into stuffed elephants!  Even embroidered their names on the feet. This gift could not be more perfect! Looking forward to having a matching one made for #3 as a keepsake.

IMG_6597
IMG_6598

The nursery turned out better than I imagined, I can’t wait for baby 3 to arrive!

IMG_6985
IMG_6986
Empty wall perfect for a newborn photo.

IMG_6987

 

2 Comments .

RNYM FREE EVENT- Baby Shower

Posted on July 28, 2016 by RocklandNYMom Posted in March of Dimes, Out and about..., RNYM Events, Things to Do!, Uncategorized .

RocklandNYMom was created (almost 3 years ago) to help parents and grandparents find the tools that will help them as they begin and continue their journeys with children and grandchildren.  We research list, and aim to provide useful information to all caregivers in our area.  

We are always looking for new ways to service the caregivers of Rockland County and its surrounding areas, and when our own Ashley announced that she was pregnant the idea of our very first BABY SHOWER was born ;o)

2016 Baby Shower Graphic

This SUNDAY 7/31/16 we will be hosting a FREE EVENT for new or expecting parents and grandparents at Casa Mia Manor House in Blauvelt from 12- 4pm.

bABY SHOWER FLYER 2016

This event is full of great information for new parents and grandparents.  We have professionals with a wide range of specialties all pertaining to the care and rearing of our children.

The first 100 guests to arrive will receive RNYM bags full of coupons, useful information and some “SWAG” (freestuff).

During the event you are welcome to walk around and speak to the professionals, and listen to their presentations (see schedule below).

baby shower speakers

Stop by one of our “Photo-Ops” and snap a selfie, then #RNYMShower2016 best photos will win one of our awesome prizes!!!

As RocklandNYMom is an official Media Sponsor for the March of Dimes this year we have also encorporated a way to support them as well.  Available for raffle will be a myriad of tricky tray prizes.  Tickets cost $5 for 4, $10 for 9 or $20 for 20.  A percentage of the money collected for these prizes will be donated to the March of Dimes.

Prizes include (but are not limited to):

  • 3 nights of dinner from various restaurants
  • Massages
  • Hair Cuts
  • Manicures
  • Gift Baskets and more!

There will be a cash bar (with non alcoholic drinks as well) open during the event should you want to have a beverage.

1 Comment .

Attention to Detail- Jennifer Tesker Photography Review

Posted on July 5, 2016 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Photo Obsessed, Photography, Reviews, Uncategorized .

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

RNYM really prides itself in having the BEST photographers directory available.  We have the most talented photographers, and here’s why. 

From the moment I saw Jennifer Tesker’s “spring mini” setup I knew I was in love.  It was so fresh and breezy.  So soft and innocent.

I see lots of great photos of my kids… I take a lot of photos… not all of them affect me the way that these did.  I cried during my viewing session.  This video was precious.  It really captured the essence of my children- individually- and with each other.

Here have a look…

I love to shoot with Jennifer because of her attention to detail and super professionalism (she is also a sweetheart).  She is METICULOUS, not only in her unbelievable photographs but in her business dealings as well.  Jennifer is a FULL-SERVICE photographer.

Jen loves her work, its evident when you enter her studio how proud she is of her images and the happiness she creates. 

JTP Studio

Her booking process is streamlined, quick and easy.  She sends reminder emails to make sure you have the date, time and place all set.  She is happy to work with you on your clothing options (which always makes me so anxious, yep we went back and forth figuring out the right look).

When we came for the mini-session (mini sessions are 20 minutes in contrast to a full session which is longer) she was all set up with the most beautiful spring display.  The kids respond so well to her, always have.  I literally am able to walk away and not watch the process.  She asks them to re situate, and they comply, they want to please her (and then stay and play with her girls).  It took her only 15 minutes to snag the most amazing photos of my kids.

Within 24 hours she posted a “teaser” on Facebook for me to swoon over.  I was so impressed I changed my profile picture right then and there.

Bogart-Web-1

What follows is part of the process that the general public doesn’t get to see.  Lots of time I see people complain that photos are “too expensive”, or that “anyone can take these kinds of pictures with a good camera.”  I’d like to take this opportunity to DEBUNK that.

When your photographer is finished taking the photographs they go home and weed through them.  Jennifer took over 125 photos during our session.  The result of her hard work was the best 15 images.  Not only are they the best images, but Jen also had to edit them to perfect them.  She does this in PAINSTAKING DETAIL.  For instance, little (E) has great hair, with layered wisps and fabulous curls- but they end up in her face OFTEN.  In our perfect photos too.  Jen spends HOURS editing to  remove fly-aways so you can focus on the beauty that is the photo. 

JTP- Emmie before and afterOnce she is done obsessing over these images, she gives options, she turns them into black and white so that you can see how it would look the other way.  Once she has completed all of this to HER SATISFACTION.  You get another email.

This email invites you to attend a viewing session where you will see a personalized video of your images, and then discuss options as far as purchasing digital images, prints, and some other truly fabulous photo gifts.  I am slightly obsessed with the personalized photo box that holds your images.  The box is great quality and the photos inside are mounted and safe to handle, they are meant to be looked at OFTEN.

Jen offers these products both as Packages or “a la carte” where you can pick and choose the images/products that you would like.   This allows her to work with  any available budget.  When you purchase all the images you get a thumb drive with not only the images- but also the copy of your video.  She takes all types of payments, and can even do a payment plan where you receive your purchase when it is paid in full.  Since people often change their minds and come back to purchase more, Jen also holds on to your purchased images for 1 year and unpurchased for 3 months so you have time to come back.

Jen wants you to print your pictures and display them, not keep them locked on a thumb drive or cd.  This is one reason that she is a full service photographer.  In fact, so many of her clients are worried about getting the photos placed correctly that for a FULL session she will also help you to design your gallery wall (you have to see how she does that- but I can’t tell- its a secret).

The turn around for all of this is really very quick, especially when you take into consideration the amount of time it takes to edit and prepare your presentation.  Jennifer is a true professional who loves her job.  She adores each and every client that she works with. She beams while showing you your images, and is even more excited when you return for your next session, so that she can document your families growth year to year.  

JENNIFER HAS JUST ANNOUNCED HER AMAZING SUMMER SESSIONS!!! HOW CUE ARE THESE???

JTP Summer Sessions 2016

To see Jennifer’s latest offerings check our her website http://www.jenniferteskerphotography.com/ and don’t forget to tell her we sent you.

July 4th Celebrations-2016!

Posted on June 28, 2016 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Ashley's Lists, Out and about..., Things to Do!, Uncategorized .

Screen Shot 2016-06-24 at 1.15.46 PM

June 30th

Nanuet High School
6pm – 9pm Come with a picnic, blankets and chairs and enjoy activites and Inflatables
7:15pm – Rockland Radio Control Club Flying Demonstration
8pm – “Mighty Spectrum Band” in Concert
Fireworks after the concert.
Refreshments available for purchase
FREE – Rain date: July 1st

_________________________________________________________________________

July 1st

Boulders Stadium
7pm – Come for a game, live music, give a ways and fireworks
To purchase tickets, call 845-364-0009 or visit www.rocklandboulders.com.
Palisades Credit Union Park, Pomona.

Rye Playland Amusement Park
Fireworks display choreographed to music every Friday night, July through Sept. 2.
9:15 pm – Fireworks
Parking fees apply

_________________________________________________________________________

July 2nd

Trophy Point Amphitheater, West Point
7:30 – United States Military Academy Band in Concert
Fireworks following the concert
FREE – Rain date: Sunday July 3rd

Bowline Point Park, Haverstraw
8pm –  Concert
9pm – Fireworks!
FREE

Lady Warren Hose Company #5 Firehouse, Haverstraw
6pm – Unlimited wings, fries, beer and soda
$15: for adults and kids over 5 years.
Great spot to catch the fireworks!

Boulders Stadium
6:30pm
Come for a game, part and 3D fireworks
To purchase tickets, call 845-364-0009 or visit www.rocklandboulders.com.
Palisades Credit Union Park, Pomona.

_________________________________________________________________________

July 3rd

Rye Playland Amusement Park
9:30 pm – Special holiday fireworks with a patriotic musical score.
No rain date planned.
Parking fees apply

Boulders Stadium
6:30pm – Come for a game, party and 3D fireworks
To purchase tickets, call 845-364-0009 or visit www.rocklandboulders.com.
Palisades Credit Union Park, Pomona.

Kensico Dam Plaza
6pm – Entertainment begins – bring a blanket, chairs and a picnic.
8pm – Patriotic Concert
9:15 – Fireworks extravaganza
This event attracts large crowds, consider carpooling or taking the train to the Valhalla station.
1 Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla, NY 10595

_________________________________________________________________________

July 4th

Memorial Park, Nyack
9pm – Fireworks will begin
They can be seen from any place in the Village where there is a clear view of the southeast sky
FREE

East Central Avenue Ball Field, Pearl River
7pm – Concert begins
9pm – Fireworks!
FREE

Veterans Memorial Field – Ridgewood, NJ
6pm Gates will open
131 North Maple Avenue
Ridgewood, NJ 07450

Rye Playland Amusement Park
9:30 pm – Special holiday fireworks with a patriotic musical score.
No rain date planned.
Parking fees apply

Boulders Stadium
 5:30pm – The festivities begin! Come for the game, hot dog eating contest,  giveaways, a post-game performance from the Ramsey Wind Symphony and a fireworks extravaganza.
To purchase tickets, call 845-364-0009 or visit www.rocklandboulders.com.
Palisades Credit Union Park, Pomona.

_________________________________________________________________________

 

Playgrounds, Playscapes, and More!

Posted on June 6, 2016 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Out and about..., RNYM's Picks, Uncategorized .

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

-Deirdre Costello

When you have little kids and you can finally get out from hibernation, where do you go? Do you run errands and then stop at a local playscapes for your little one to run off some energy? Do you meet up with a friend for lunch and hit up the local zoo? Where can your playgroup or Moms group go to switch up their weekly routine?

Please keep in mind that some parks have strict residency requirements that must be adhered to.  Please check the parks and recreations departments if you are unsure.  As always, be courteous of the space and clean up after yourselves so that we can keep these areas nice.

Aidan Playground 1

Parks and Playgrounds

Kings Park
Kings Hwy. Congers, NY 10920
(845) 639-6200
Ball fields, playground with infant swings, ice skating, basketball courts.
Hours: Open dawn to dusk

Tennyson Park
Tennyson Dr. Nanuet, NY 10954
(845) 639-6200
Ball field, playground, basketball courts.
Hours: Open dawn to dusk.

Eugene Levy Memorial Park
920 Rte-45 Pomona, NY 10970
(845) 357-6100
Children’s playground, nature area, jogging/walking paths, exercise trail, handball courts, and bathrooms.

Tigers Den Park
Rose Ave. Spring Valley, NY 10977
(718) 367-1010
A playground, with basketball and volleyball courts.

Emeline Park
Main St. Haverstraw, NY 10927
(845) 429-0300
Playground, gazebo, walking path, picnicking, fishing, and a gorgeous view of the haverstraw bay.
Hours: Open dawn to dusk.

Haverstraw Bay Park
21 Gagan Rd. Haverstraw, NY 10927
(845) 364-2670
Right on the water in Haverstraw, several playgrounds for all ages, a gazebo, picnic areas, walking trail, fishing, the September 11th memorial and bathrooms.

Nyack Memorial Park
53 Piermont Ave. Nyack, NY 10960
On the shores of the Hudson and within walking distance from the downtown Nyack area, with children’s playground, gazebo, tennis courts, butterfly garden, small watercraft launch. Hosts several special events throughout the summer.

Germonds Park
Germonds Rd.West Nyack, NY 10994  (All the way up the hill above the pool club)
Playground for ages 2-5

Zukor Park
31 Zukor Road, New City, NY 10956
Fenced in area, with padded floor ( not mulch), infant swings, basketball courts, baseball fields, soccer fields.

Veteran’s Memorial Park
81 Hunt Rd Orangeburg, NY 10962
(845) 359-6503
Active park with athletic fields and courts, playgrounds, batting cages, jogging paths, two ponds, concession stand.
Hours: Open dawn to dusk.

Independence Park
Independence Ave Orangeburg, NY 10962
(845) 359-6503
Independence Park has lighted tennis and basketball courts, playground and paths.
Hours: Open dawn to dusk.

Greenbush Center
Greenbush Rd. Orangeburg, NY 10962
(845) 398-1000
Greenbush Center has a playground and open playfield.
Hours: Open dawn to dusk.

Tappan Park
Oak Tree Rd. Tappan, NY 10983
(845) 359-6503
Ball field, children’s playground area.

Pilgrim Court Park
Pilgrim Ct. Pearl River, NY 10965
(845) 359-6503
Children’s play area, open play space, neighborhood park.
Hours: Open dawn to dusk

Highview Community Playground
24 Highview Ave,Nanuet, NY 10954
Known as the popular “Castle Park”. Newly updated with “trex-like” material. Fenced area with Infant swings,  toddler area, handicapped swings, blacktop for riding bikes.
Hours: This park is also used by Highview Elementary, hours are after school and weekends. 

Nature Hike 1

Nature Parks (trails, hiking, picnic areas)

County Parks

Buttermilk Falls
S Greenbush Rd, Orangeburg, NY 10962
A path leads up to the falls, with several more paths leading to the top to lookout points. Great spot for young first time hikers. Leashed dogs allowed.

Demarest Kill Recreation Area
57 New Hempstead Road, New City
Hiking trails, fishing, nature path, picnic areas, no restrooms.

Dutch Gardens
37 South Main Street, New City
Walking paths,  picnic areas, gardens, gazebo and a brick teahouse.

Mountainview Nature Park
Strawberry Hill Lane, West Nyack
Hiking trails. Leashed dogs allowed.

State Parks

Rockland Lake State Park
299 Rockland Lake Rd.Valley Cottage
3.2 mile paved path – non motorized bikes allowed. Fishing, golfing, hiking, tennis, boat launches, swimming pool, picnic areas, and nature trails.

Nyack Beach State Park
698 N. Broadway Upper Nyack
Hiking, fishing, biking, picnic areas. Launching kayaks and windsurfers from the beach is allow. Dogs allowed- must be on a 6 foot leash.

Hook Mountain State Park
663 N Broadway, Nyack
Hiking. Leashed pets allowed.

 

If you are up for an adventure and making it a day trip,
Here are some in New Jersey!

 Emmie Playground 1

Playgrounds for the kiddos!


Overpeck Park
199 Challenger Road, Ridgefield Park, NJ. 
A newly renovated park, with climbing nets, leveled runways and spinners. It is also great because of its rubbery ground surface which is easier on the knees for those excitable missteps! landing. Bathrooms are close by near the soccer fields.

Finch Park Creative Playground
Ramsey, NJ
Also a newer playground with a variety of structures for different ages levels to enjoy. It has a toddler area that looks like a pirate ship and a older age playground that looks like castle. A cool sandbox as well.Wyckoff Community Playground
Wyckoff, NJ
A very large playground with two structures for each age group. The playground is two-tiered for both the little ones and older kids. Really neat slides and enough shade for a rest from all the activities!

Haworth Memorial Park (aka Castle Park)
Haworth, NJ.
Very cool wooden castle playground. It has been around for a long time and built with real wood. Areas for older and younger kids. This park has lots of shade cover. The ground is pebbles so be sure to have the kids in sneakers!


Van Saun Park
Paramus NJ
Van Saun Park is one of the largest playgrounds in the area. There are 4 different structures. It now includes an inclusive playground with handicap accessibility. There is also a fun large carousel and small pony rides available at this popular park. Across the parking lot is the Van Saun County Zoo where there are tons of animals to see and a train to ride! This park and zoo makes for a great day out!


Clark Field
Washington Twp, NJ

This is a newer playground that has lots of shady spots. The play structures are for all ages. There is a pirate ship in the toddler area and the older area has some very tall slides. This park has four full size swings, four toddler swings, and one tire swing.

Oradell Kids Foundation Playground
Oradell, NJ
There is a huge play structure with rock walls, climbing structures and tube slides. There is also a  toddler area. The toddler section has a tube slide, all just on a smaller scale.


Saddle River County Park
Otto C Pehle Area, Saddle Brook, NJ

A large playground in Saddle Brook. The play area near a lovely pond with a center water fountain. The playground  has lots of tunnels and bridges. It also has many climbing structures  such as rock walls, poles, monkey bars, and rings. It has four full size swings, four toddler swings, and one handicap swing.

Ross Dock Park
Fort Lee (Englewood), NJ
Large playground overlooking the Hudson River. The playground is full of climbing activities such as rings, rock walls, and chains. It is a great park for taking in the view and snaping some photos! It features picnic tables, restrooms and a refreshment stand, with drinks, snacks, ice cream, and picnic and barbecue supplies, (Open on weekends in the summer.) Great views of the George Washington Bridge!

Votee Park
Teaneck, NJ.
Huge and brand new inclusive playground with lots of ramps, musical keyboards, sign language interactive boards and even fire saftey tips for the kids to read and learn. The ground is made from a rubber square surface. Six full size swings, two toddler swings, and six handicap swings.

Nature Hikes 2
Nature Parks and Trails (some have playgrounds)

Ridgewood Duck Pond
Ridgewood, NJ
The park amenities include picnic areas, a playground and a dog park.
Great handicap playground and good for all ages.There are two structures that are suitable for all ages. Tons of climbing structures for both older and little tikes!

Saddle River County Park
Bicycle-Pedestrian Path: This bike and pedestrian path travels from Ridgewood to Rochelle Park (aprox. 6 miles long) The path is quite scenic. Ride or walk past a waterfall at Dunkerhook Park, or stop for a break at one of the three ponds. There are also tree shaded picnic areas, playgrounds and pavilions along the path.

Darlington Park
Mahwah, NJ
Playground for all ages and tennis and basketball courts. A walking, running or biking patch and picnic areas but you will have to bring your own grill. There is also a Wildlife Observation.

Dahnerts Lake County Park
Garfield, NJ
Lake with a center fountain. The play area is large with a two large structures for each age group. Lots of steep slides, bridges and mushroom caps!

 

 

Wayne’s World- Party Time!

Posted on May 16, 2016 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Direct Sales, Food, March of Dimes, Party, Reviews, Uncategorized .

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

This past month we held our first “Wellness Workshop” with Jamie Silver of Norwex and were dazzled as we learned how to eliminate chemicals from our cleaning routines.  The party was held at Wayne’s World in Nanuet.

The workshop was a great success in that those who had questions and doubted the products were impressed by the science behind them.  I myself am most looking forward to going through and de-cluttering my cleaning products, getting rid of my “Swiffer” and introducing my new (sturdier) mop system that doesn’t require me to re-attach a cloth to it several times.

IMG_9097

Additionally, I am obsessed with the bathroom buddy that the kids can use to dry their hands in the bathroom- special side note- it has the special silver in it, so as they wipe, any bacteria that was still on their hands (after their super thorough washing) is removed.  THAT’S A WIN IN MY BOOK!!!  Seriously considering getting them for all of the teachers in my life (elementary).IMG_9091

Then there’s the health benefits…. Maybe little (E)’s allergies and asthma will improve now that the harsh chemicals are gone, and its so easy for me to clean up!!

The evening went super smoothly in no small part due to the activities put on by Wayne’s World itself.   Who in addition to opening their doors, set up the kids activities, AND donated a percentage of their proceeds that DAY to the March of Dimes.

IMG_9095

This was my first visit to Wayne’s World.  The food was yum (as was the wine), the establishment super clean (yay!) and the kids had a blast!  They got to make their own pizzas, and ice cream and also had a really cool tour of the kitchen!!!  They had the opportunity to watch Chef Paulie through dough… a fabulous evening for them!!!

IMG_7957

IMG_9107

IMG_7959

IMG_9109

The look on their faces tells it all.  Wayne’s World is a great family location (with specials for free kids on Mondays and Tuesdays).  We will most certainly be back.

UPDATE:  We earned $150 for March of Dimes at this event from Wayne’s World (which is great) and we also earned another donation from Jamie for the evening!  So happy to have combined this event to support the March of Dimes!!!

LIGHTSCAPES

Posted on May 11, 2016 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Day Trips, Day Trips, Events, Out and about..., Reviews, Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post, as we were invited back to visit LIGHTSCAPES.  All opinions expressed are my own.

-Ashley

IMG_4954

The rain and the crazy weather have been killer lately! All my boys want to do is be out of the house, and lets face it – so do I! So I was thrilled at the opportunity to visit LIGHTSCAPES at Van Cortlandt Manor.

I’m sure many of you are familiar with the Great Jack-o-lantern Blaze that happens every fall, well this magical event is created by the same people. I have yet to bring my boys (4 and 3) to the Blaze, but after our experience at LIGHTSCAPES we will definitely be there this year!

I’ll start off with some main points: There are snacks available for purchase with cash or card: popcorn, baked goods, coffee, tea etc.  However, the delicious ice cream from Blue Pig is cash only. There are no bathrooms, but port-a-potties available. I would also advise not to bring a stroller as it can get crowded, and parts are narrow and bumpy. A baby carrier is best.

The entrance is beneath a color changing rainbow that leads you to walk through a bubble storm, where I realized you are never really too old to enjoy popping bubbles!

IMG_2753

A large number of the sculptures are made from recycled objects, so I had the boys guessing at each one what they were made of (a fun and interactive game). Yelling in excitement “Look, bowling pins! Water jugs! They are so silly, they used milk jugs!”

What a great way to have a conversation about waste, and art?!  

IMG_4931

IMG_4937(S) standing in the Castle made of milk jugs, large plastic bottles and water jugs.

IMG_2852
Butterfly with a bowling pin as a body! 

IMG_2858
The boy’s favorite, the praying mantis.

As we walked through, I felt like Tinkerbell among the huge lit flowers, mushrooms, and insects. We were whisked away to someplace magical.  

IMG_4959My favorite part, the flower garden.

IMG_4964Gorgeous HUGE vase of flowers, incorporating all different types of flowers.
This picture does it no justice. 

We took our time and strolled the path, being sure not to miss anything and we were finished in about an hour.  Driving home (W) asked if we could save some of our recycling to make a project. So we are saving up milk jugs and egg cartons to come up with a fun project for this weekend (I will show you all when we are done)!

Hurry and grab your tickets, this event is only through May!
May 12th-15th
May 19th-22nd
May 26th-30th
Buy Tickets HERE! 

http://www.hudsonvalley.org/events/lightscapes

 

« Previous Page
Next Page »
  • About this Site
    • Privacy Policy & Disclosure
  • Savings for RNYM.com Readers!
  • Currently loving….
    • Feeding Baby
    • BabyCare 101
  • Directories
    • Pregnancy and Babies
    • Camps Directory 2023
    • Childcare/Pre-School Directory
    • Classes Directory
    • For the Home
    • Direct Sales Directory
    • Party Directory
    • Party Entertainment Directory
    • Photographers Directory
    • Family Services Directory
    • Crafters Directory
    • Specialty Items Directory
    • Play Ball
  • A Good Cause
  • I’m Going on a Trip…
    • Theater
  • We’re having a party….
  • RNYM’s Favorite Recipes
  • Become Part of RocklandNYMom
  • RNYM in the News!
  • Christmas 2019

Newsletter Sign Up

Categories

Recent Comments

  • MB on Home Made Christmas Ornaments!
  • Mom E. on LEGOLAND NY- The RNYM Scoop
  • RocklandNYMom on Socially Safe Santa
  • sikis izle on Socially Safe Santa
  • Amanda Kivell on Camps Directory 2023

Meta

  • Register
  • Log in
  • Entries RSS
  • Comments RSS
  • WordPress.org

Recent Posts

  • Climbing out of our Comfort Zone
  • Four Stars for Movie House Paramus
  • Getting Back to it!
  • Kicking off Spring Break with a Time Mission Review!
  • Music Spring Break Camps at Bach 2 Rock!

CyberChimps WordPress Themes

© Rockland Mom