tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33303997658073563742024-03-05T05:49:02.261-05:00baby meets cityBaby Meets City is a personal lifestyle blog written by Ellen K. Schmidt. She writes about her experience parenting in New York City... always an adventure! You'll also find local events and NYC activities with children, relevant product reviews, and an on-going list of NYC-based children's book reviews (a slow process)!ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.comBlogger474125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-14187791379476917862021-09-23T23:07:00.003-04:002021-09-24T10:27:29.792-04:00Experience Korea without leaving Manhattan at COTE Korean Steakhouse<p>Of all the changes that have developed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic (and there have been many), I miss travel most of all. Sure, it's not like my family and I jet off to Europe or Asia on the regular, but theoretically, we COULD if we saved our money and planned ahead. But while travel in some parts of the world is slowly making a comeback, I'll settle for watching my good friend <a href="https://www.darleycnewman.com/" target="_blank">Darley Newman's travel adventures</a> on PBS while we wait for the girls to be officially vaccinated. Safety first, friends. </p><p></p><p>Luckily for us, living in New York City offers an incredible advantage for the travel-starved. One could traverse the world countless times just by tasting the many cuisines available right here within the five boroughs. Simply put, food can transport us to another culture without ever leaving the table (though having a healthy imagination doesn't hurt, either). And if there's anything New Yorkers enjoy, it's going out to eat.</p><p>My gal Darley Newman and I recently visited South Korea by way of the Flatiron District at <a href="https://www.cotenyc.com/" target="_blank">COTE Korean Steakhouse</a>. The restaurant was awarded a coveted Michelin star (the only Korean barbecue restaurant in the world to have one, in fact) and while I can't claim to be the foodiest foodie of them all, I can confidently report that COTE offered up one of the best meals I've ever had. For example, I'm still thinking about our Korean "bacon" and jalapeño appetizer a week later.</p><p>I mean, just look at that crispy deliciousness (house-smoked crispy heritage
pork belly with pickled jalapeño, to be exact)...</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygA7LjE1vmZSn32n0oLEUf8kewaI8MkTQHU12BLv9mJpymnPQu9HnOUOdJiC6jqORVrWBPgc8YjaxZnxfzy1gsl5Q78lJHP0YM86mPIK5OhdyudeQPLPWxH-Y7X2VbSnDbFP9ix2Vzqs/s2016/IMG_6860.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygA7LjE1vmZSn32n0oLEUf8kewaI8MkTQHU12BLv9mJpymnPQu9HnOUOdJiC6jqORVrWBPgc8YjaxZnxfzy1gsl5Q78lJHP0YM86mPIK5OhdyudeQPLPWxH-Y7X2VbSnDbFP9ix2Vzqs/w480-h640/IMG_6860.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><p>But let's not get too ahead of ourselves, shall we?</p><p>COTE is the culinary vision of restauranteur <a href="https://www.eater.com/2019/10/4/20897510/simon-kim-chef-bio-restaurant-cote" target="_blank">Simon Kim</a>, who's successfully managed to combine the best of both Korean barbeque and the classic American steakhouse. With smokeless grills at every table, guests are given a front row seat to the dining experience unfolding in front of them. A feast for the senses, with a menu varied enough that there is truly something for everyone (though no surprises, vegetarians might have a small issue with all the meat being prepared around them). </p><p>After <a href="https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/coronavirus/no-vax-no-service-covid-19-vaccine-mandates-goes-into-effect-in-new-york-city/3222505/" target="_blank">showing our vaccination cards</a> and entering the restaurant, we grabbed an <a href="https://assets.ctfassets.net/7m90b3o5uk7x/1EpVziQwFsCKXRLEqgP0KG/de5d9155c42d8b676e068cb8e325e48b/Bar_Menu_7.21.21.pdf" target="_blank">inventive cocktail</a> (my frosty Froze came presented with a flamingo straw; adorable!) at the bar and made our way to be seated.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgthOCUbw7j4IrcyVIzIwolB-lMKp_4ZkzngklonraEENbue0K9O4alKmvKq56ADxk33e24VO9C13VsxGwrJ3xot_i5wSZquX8ZzY0ilcOLs55_7qjYYrxS8PiQIixKJpCZRJpYK7WeR4k/s2016/IMG_4402.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgthOCUbw7j4IrcyVIzIwolB-lMKp_4ZkzngklonraEENbue0K9O4alKmvKq56ADxk33e24VO9C13VsxGwrJ3xot_i5wSZquX8ZzY0ilcOLs55_7qjYYrxS8PiQIixKJpCZRJpYK7WeR4k/w480-h640/IMG_4402.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><p>Comfortably full without feeling overcrowded, COTE definitely feels like a scene, but in all the best ways. Guests are there to be fed (and fed well) and the vibe is upbeat, hip and positive. Maybe it's just that New Yorkers are excited to be out and about again, or more likely, that they are just super excited about the meal ahead of them. </p><p>After checking out <a href="https://assets.ctfassets.net/7m90b3o5uk7x/1bueAr0G0SCF2G66yBQ7i3/8427bfe666be0baf5e4d85f15aa81d09/GHM_COTE-NYC_Design_DinnerMenu_06.24.21.pdf" target="_blank">the menu</a> with Wesley Sohn, COTE's Director of Hospitality, we started first with a couple appetizers, the aforementioned Korean "bacon" that I'm still dreaming about, and "Steak and Eggs", hand-cut filet mignon tartare
with Kaluga Hybrid caviar on milk toast. Here's where I admit that I've never had caviar before. And, now that I've had it once, I'd like to know WHEN AM I HAVING CAVIAR AGAIN?! This appetizer was sooo tasty, so flavorful, and let's give some bonus points to that really cute purple tray, too, shall we?</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKXu3jnQ_74Dz393YtTe2HhPJc4tacDl8AmPHvqBsPx8uMxSwEjNAMXGnn83YXD55MGy2dYZDC0ZtU6oEfa9Si50JsA4gMhFQhpeNEni4giVK9ZroAr8WIuWTeRHQwyNTkjP51sYuldQ/s1280/IMG_4408.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKXu3jnQ_74Dz393YtTe2HhPJc4tacDl8AmPHvqBsPx8uMxSwEjNAMXGnn83YXD55MGy2dYZDC0ZtU6oEfa9Si50JsA4gMhFQhpeNEni4giVK9ZroAr8WIuWTeRHQwyNTkjP51sYuldQ/w480-h640/IMG_4408.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><p>Next, we moved on to the "Butcher's Feast", which offers a selection of the chef's favorite cuts of beef. Our night's selection included: USDA Prime hanger steak, 45-days dry aged rib eye, American Wagyu Flatiron steak and marinated short rib (my personal favorite). Korean accompaniments included in the Butcher's Feast are Savory Egg Soufflé, Spicy Kimchi Stew, Savory Dwen-jang Stew, Ban-Chan (pickled seasonal vegetables), Scallion salad and Red leaf lettuce
with Ssam-jang. </p><p>As we ate our way through the beef courses, there's no question that we began to get full. And since I don't think it can be overstated enough, let me say, when you come to dinner at COTE, come hungry, and maybe skip lunch that day. You're going to leave full (but not uncomfortably stuffed), as you will absolutely want to eat everything that comes your way. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lyt7OxzHNb5BJB6ROXjDoCgnPj-JNHjU5Ti4E8FQi2skJ66i9qk8YZy7bLE2qu35OKazCM-NSRV9wYx5vD44lxQwJCVFU8yb1AXH316xOc_mrU7fF92xaSNNGTOqlUA48aSCeEzoSEQ/s1163/IMG_4564.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1163" data-original-width="828" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lyt7OxzHNb5BJB6ROXjDoCgnPj-JNHjU5Ti4E8FQi2skJ66i9qk8YZy7bLE2qu35OKazCM-NSRV9wYx5vD44lxQwJCVFU8yb1AXH316xOc_mrU7fF92xaSNNGTOqlUA48aSCeEzoSEQ/w456-h640/IMG_4564.jpg" width="456" /></a></div><p>We loved it when Simon Kim stopped by to say hello, and he and Darley were able to discuss her work as <a href="https://darley-newman.com/tourism-ambassador-to-korea/" target="_blank">Travel Ambassador to Korea</a> (a tough job, but someone's gotta do it, right?). Her <a href="https://darley-newman.com/in-the-media/darley-participates-in-discover-korea-live-from-ny/" target="_blank">Korea episode</a> will make you want to hop on a plane tomorrow, just be forewarned. I mainly gushed about the food, which was right on brand for me.</p><p>I do hope to be able to visit South Korea someday. Husband was in Pyeongchang for the Winter Olympics in 2018 (working for NBC Sports), and he came home with the most amazing stories of visiting <a href="https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/woljeongsa-temple-south-korea/index.html" target="_blank">Woljeongsa Temple</a> (his photos are stunning!), the Imperial Palace and Seoul Tower, not to mention the amazing food, of course. Speaking of food, we topped off our dinner with vanilla soft serv ice cream topped with soy sauce caramel (ingredients I would never think to put together, and yet there it was, simply delicious). </p><p>A week later, I'm truly convinced this is one of the better meals I've had in my life. Isn't that remarkable, to get to a certain point in life, and be able to think back on favorite meals you've experienced along the way? Because there's no doubt in my mind that dining at COTE was indeed an "experience", and one I hope I get to relive one day. </p><p> Here's to traveling the world via our favorite NYC restaurants. Korea, you were well worth the visit!</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">PLEASE NOTE: Per COVID guidelines, those 12 and older are now expected to provide proof of vaccination in order to dine indoors at restaurants in New York City. </p>ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0New York, NY, USA40.7127753 -74.005972812.402541463821152 -109.1622228 69.023009136178842 -38.849722799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-7118574663246167612020-03-02T13:29:00.003-05:002020-03-03T11:06:21.312-05:00This Weekend: The NY Philharmonic presents Fun at the Phil: Sleepover at the MuseumAlready thinking ahead to the weekend? Me, too! If introducing your children to classical music sounds appealing, consider The New York Philharmonic's family benefit, <a href="https://nyphil.org/concerts-tickets/1920/fun-at-the-phil-sleepover-at-the-museum">Fun at the Phil: Sleepover at the Museum</a>, this Saturday, March 7th at 11am. Combining classical music and an epic story time all in one, the orchestra, conducted by Ankush Kumar Bahl, will perform Saint-Saens's <i>The Carnival of the Animals</i> while narrator Jamie Bernstein reads aloud Karen LeFrak's <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Sleepover-at-Museum-Karen-Lefrak/dp/1524771406">Sleepover at the Museum</a>. Simultaneously, David Bucs' illustrations will be projected on a giant screen above. Bernstein is a professional narrator, filmmaker, broadcaster and music lover (like her father, Leonard). The event honors LeFrak, who is a Vice Chair of the Philharmonic Board of Directors, as well as an author and composer.<br />
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The one hour concert at David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center is intended for children ages 6-12 and ticket information can be found <a href="https://nyphil.org/concerts-tickets/tickets/selectsection?perf=5002">here</a>. Individual tickets are available for just the performance (from $16-35). If buying a table, the price goes up quite a bit, but that includes lunch afterwards with costumed characters on the Grand Promenade. Those ticket prices can be found <a href="https://nyphil.org/forms/support/family-benefit">here</a>. All proceeds will go towards the Philharmonic's education programs.<br />
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Not your average Saturday morning, which I love! See you there?<br />
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ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-9515261037486562732019-12-11T00:21:00.004-05:002019-12-11T00:22:45.458-05:00Weekend event: The Yorkville Nutcracker by Dances Patrelle <div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-top: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Love The Nutcracker but want to see it with a NYC twist this Christmas season? <a href="https://www.dancespatrelle.org/">Dances Patrelle</a> presents <i>The Yorkville Nutcracker </i>this weekend, December 13-15, at The Kaye Playhouse at Hunter College. With all the same gorgeous music, sets and famous dance medleys, The Yorkville Nutcracker is slightly different as its setting is right here in the Big Apple. The audience will be transported to Olde New York's most beloved and classic landmarks: a holiday party at Gracie Mansion, dancing at the Crystal Palace in the New York Botanical Garden and skating in Central Park, among other locations. The talented Abbi Stafford of New York City Ballet returns as the Sugar Plum Fairy. It's going to be so lovely, and lucky for you, <a href="https://ci.ovationtix.com/34951/production/1020004?performanceId=10470286">tickets are still available</a>. The girls and I will be at an afternoon performance this weekend, and I'm really looking forward to experiencing this production with them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Is The Nutcracker part of your family's holiday traditions?</span></div>
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ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-21304021783288134692019-12-05T22:51:00.002-05:002019-12-05T22:51:53.744-05:00A Stylish Night with KidpikA few weeks ago, <a href="https://www.kidpik.com/">Kidpik</a>, the personalized fashion brand for girls, invited us to a special sleepover at the NY Edition Hotel in the Flatiron District. This sort of invitation doesn't come along every day, so I just had to say yes -- and I'm glad I did! We had so much fun, and I'm excited to share a little recap and a few photos of our experience. But be forewarned, you may have the urge to go shopping for the little gal in your life in a few minutes...<br />
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After getting checked in, we had some time in our room (the hotel is, in a word, gorgeous) before changing into our matching Kidpik lounge wear and heading upstairs to the penthouse. Before dinner, every guest had a mini style session with <a href="https://www.kidpik.com/manu">Manuel "Manu" A. Mendez</a>, kids stylist to the stars (<i>he counts Blu Ivy Carter among his clients</i>). Manu is currently serving as Kidpik's guest stylist, and could not have been nicer. But more of that in a moment.<br />
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Normally I would not suggest to the girls that we go for the "matchy matchy" look, but our outfits were SO comfy, and as you can see, we weren't having any fun at all. Off to the penthouse for a look at the sun setting over the skyline and a little outfit styling...</div>
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Manu helped the girls find some looks, and I sort of sat back as much as I could, as I want them to begin developing their own style and sense of what they like and don't like (for instance, Vivian loves anything with sparkles, Millie not so much). That's one very cool thing about Kidpik. When you sign up to receive a box, you'll be invited to take a <a href="https://www.kidpik.com/how-it-works">Style Quiz</a>, where your child can choose her favorite colors, styles, fabrics, etc. Then, her personal stylist will choose 3 fashionable head-to-toe mix & match outfits personalized to your child (the average price per item is around $13). Then, you have 7 days to figure out what you want to keep, then ship back the rest (for free), and only pay for the items you keep. So fun, right? One important note: you don't have to make this a monthly thing, either. You can do once a month, every 2 months or 3 months, and you can pause, skip or cancel at any time.</div>
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Thanks for your expert tips, Manu!</div>
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Next, the girls personalized some jean jackets and we had dinner shortly thereafter. I really enjoyed chatting with the other guests, and the girls had a lot of fun playing with the other little girls that attended with their moms. </div>
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The next morning, before we headed back uptown for school, we headed back to the penthouse, where it had been transformed into a mini showroom for <a href="https://www.ninashoes.com/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIqdzvpIug5gIVGo_ICh3PSgmJEAAYASAAEgLWwfD_BwE">Nina Shoes</a>, which is owned by the same company as Kidpik. Known for their formal and bridal footwear, Nina is branching out with more hip "out on the town" options and coordinating purses (loving those stripes!)</div>
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Thanks to Kidpik for such a fun night, and if you're looking for a gift for the mini fashionista in your life (or making shopping simple a New Years resolution), Kidpik is a great brand to check out. Need to dress up during the holidays? Kidpik is currently offering <a href="https://gift.kidpik.com/collections/holiday-boxes">4 personalized box options</a> in different styles -- Ruby Princess is my favorite!</div>
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ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-45551474571426271922019-10-21T16:47:00.001-04:002019-10-21T16:47:09.075-04:00Alice in Wonderland at The Players TheatreThe beloved children's classic, <i>Alice in Wonderland</i>, is now in musical form at <a href="http://www.theplayerstheatre.com/">The Players Theatre</a> in the West Village! Performing on weekends through November 17th, this charming musical is the perfect way to introduce your child to the theatre and be entertained at the same time. Additionally, one of my favorite aspects of a Players Theatre production is their family-friendly interactive arts workshops, which take place an hour before each show begins. While there, children will get to hear from a cast member about how the musical was created and the original story itself. Then, children are invited to complete a special arts-n-crafts project that relates to the show.<br />
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I took Vivian and some of her friends to a performance a couple weeks ago to celebrate her 8th birthday, and they all had so much fun! They made Mad Hatter hats during the pre-show workshop, and as a special treat, the stage manager had everyone sing Happy Birthday to Vivian right before the show began. The girls all loved the performances, especially from the Queen of Hearts. The cast and crew were really able to bring the magic of <i>Alice</i> to life, and I do believe for little ones, a Players Theatre production is a wonderful way to introduce a child to live theater.<br />
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Afterwards, we headed to <a href="http://www.mollyscupcakes.com/">Molly's Cupcakes</a> around the corner for a sweet treat and a "swing" on their famous seating. After <i>Alice</i> wraps up, "A Christmas Carol the Musical" will open December 1st, marking its 11th year, and in spring of 2020, The Little Mermaid will make its way to the West Village. So much fun!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pre-show arts-n-crafts:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjHHNauSroz8zYpqXHdkEov2Ii1JsCl9L3y5XjgVmjj9PxXDSkd9x_jx4P0HThQ7OBBL61Fl1rNjJKvdU5aHNdRrB2Hm295duLOM8LamnnVGuaOK8LLx97wVs4fE140lVxZiGeTgDh-2E/s1600/IMG_1742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjHHNauSroz8zYpqXHdkEov2Ii1JsCl9L3y5XjgVmjj9PxXDSkd9x_jx4P0HThQ7OBBL61Fl1rNjJKvdU5aHNdRrB2Hm295duLOM8LamnnVGuaOK8LLx97wVs4fE140lVxZiGeTgDh-2E/s640/IMG_1742.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Mad Hatters loose on the subway!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you haven't had a chance to see Alice in Wonderland yet, go <a href="https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/1006272/1572580800000">HERE</a> for tickets. And here's a special bonus: with code <b>BABYMEETSCITY</b> you'll receive 20% off. Enjoy!</span></div>
ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-73198526197653673702019-08-03T23:37:00.002-04:002019-08-03T23:43:40.174-04:00Coney Island = A Summer Bucket List DestinationSo it goes like this: Christmas, respective birthdays, Coney Island. In terms of the girls' favorite days of the year, that's how far up the pole Coney Island ranks. Pretty impressive, right? They just love everything about the place, from <a href="https://lunaparknyc.com/">the rides at Luna Park</a>, to the boardwalk and <a href="https://nyaquarium.com/exhibits/ocean-wonders-sharks?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIvJ6VxZno4wIVRZyzCh0E-w26EAAYASAAEgIAM_D_BwE">aquarium</a>, to the ice cream they figure we'll most likely buy them for the long subway ride home. Our day at Coney Island has become a summer bucket list item that we all really enjoy and look forward to once the last day of school finally arrives.<br />
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This time around, we spent most of our time at <a href="https://lunaparknyc.com/">Luna Park</a>, and also tried a legendary pizza place that we've somehow missed on previous visits. But more about that in a moment. Luna Park is filled with rides for all ages, and while we sadly skipped a few that they're just too big for now, there are still plenty of rides they love and even talked their mother into doing with them (AGH). From the swings to the Coney Clipper, the Wild Ride water log ride to The Tickler (the girls' all-time favorite, which we did twice)... it was a day full of twists and turns -- literally. Follow along for a few fun photos from our day!<br />
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For lunch, we headed about 10 minute walk from Luna Park to a Coney Island institution (for the last 93 years, in fact!): <a href="https://www.totonnosconeyisland.com/">Totonno's Pizza</a>. It is off the beaten path away from the boardwalk, so you may wonder where in fact you're walking, but just think of it as discovering Brooklyn... we're so happy we did. Called #1 pizza in America from the Food Network, it was also recently featured in an episode of <a href="https://www.amny.com/eat-and-drink/somebody-feed-phil-netflix-1.19584189">Somebody Feed Phil on Netflix</a>. And while we did have to wait a little bit to be seated (and then wait some more for the actual pizza).... sufficed to say, it was worth it. Each pizza is made from scratch and put in a coal fire oven and what you get out is just perfection. From the sauce to the not overly thick crust... we found ourselves a new part of our Coney Island tradition.<br />
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Lastly, for your viewing enjoyment... my trip down the roaring rapids of the Wild River (I apologize in advance for the screaming). I've always been too scared to do it before, but when it's really hot and your children are begging you... it's amazing what you can get talked into. And you know what, that cold water at the end felt really GOOD! Until next year, Luna Park, Coney Island and Totonno's!</div>
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For more information on Luna Park pricing, calendar, etc., check out <a href="https://lunaparknyc.com/plan/park-prices-2/">their website</a>. Just a few weeks of summer vacation left for NYC kids... enjoy it! </div>
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<b>Disclosure:</b> We were provided with complimentary tickets to Luna Park for the purposes of this review. All opinions herein are my own.</div>
<br />ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-59950430629679907772019-07-02T22:07:00.005-04:002019-07-02T22:07:59.924-04:00Summer Fun: A Magical Tea Party at The Gallow GreenOne of my favorite event series for kids is back again this summer! The <a href="https://mckittrickhotel.com/gallow-green/">Gallow Green</a> (at the top of the McKittrick Hotel) in Chelsea hosts 4 "<a href="https://mckittrickhotel.com/events/potions-planting/">Potions and Planting</a>" tea parties for children over the summer months. While one has already past, 3 more dates are available!<br />
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First things first, have you ever been to the Gallow Green? It's a magical urban oasis amidst the rooftops of our concrete jungle, making the space alone worth a visit. You really feel like you've stepped back in time. During the Potions and Planting tea parties, children (ages 5-10, please) will enjoy a traditional English high tea platter, pink lemonade and hands-on lessons in potion-making and gardening from Gallow Green staff (and if you've ever been to Sleep No More, you know everyone REALLY gets into character). If your child is into magic wands, potions and enchanted forests, well, this is the place for him/her. Additionally (and I especially love this part), guests are welcome to bring along their most favorite doll or teddy bear, too. You'll find out why when you arrive!<br />
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I posted about the <a href="http://www.babymeetscity.com/2014/08/mckittrick-hotel-kids-tea-party.html?fbclid=IwAR2blB8SmfSXNGWPg4RnJRUGLLWbDsd6d2YiUHUQgE98C6fbYODjm1XFWqA">Potions and Plantings tea</a> when we attended a few summers ago, and even though the girls were a bit younger, their enthusiasm remains the same, and they're excited to attend another one. It's such a special, unique afternoon! <a href="https://mckittrickhotel.com/events/potions-planting/">Tickets for the event</a> ($25 pp) are still available. While the date may say 'sold out' - never fear; they will be releasing another block of tickets closer to the each of the dates (July 27th, August 10th & 24th remaining).<br />
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Happy summer, friends!ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-5256827558548538342019-03-12T13:11:00.000-04:002019-03-13T11:13:19.144-04:00Big Apple Books: A Green Place to Be: The Creation of Central ParkHappy publication day to <a href="http://candlewick.com/r/greenplace-babymeets">A Green Place to Be: The Creation of Central Park</a>, written and illustrated by Ashley Benham Yazdani! I recently received this book for review, and it's a wonderful addition to my Big Apple Books collection (<i>and not just because spring is in the air</i>).<br />
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<i>A Green Place to Be</i> takes you back to the mid-1800s in New York City, when the city was rapidly growing in every area but sorely lacking in green space. Architect Calvert Vaux convinced the city to hold a design contest for a new park, which he planned to enter & win himself. He joined forces with Frederick Law Olmstead, park superintendent, and together they created the plans for what we now know as Central Park.<br />
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My daughters have really enjoyed reading this book, picking up fun little discoveries along the way. Did you know that Vaux and Olmstead originally named the park Greensward? That when the Ramble first opened, there were musicians in boats floating around the lake entertaining everyone? What a wonderful scene that must have been! Our favorite section, however, is the description of "The Children's District," which was an area of the park designated for kids, including a dairy for fresh milk, a petting zoo (sound familiar?), croquet lawn and a field for playing baseball.<br />
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Yazdani's illustrations are so whimsical and dreamlike, they make you want to jump in the picture, Mary Poppins-style. And the writing is educational and informative without being dry, which we parents always appreciate. Meanwhile, I personally loved learning that Calvert and Vaux meticulously chose every plant, tree and flower and its placement in America's first large public park.<br />
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We loved learning about the history of NYC's most treasured outdoor space, and I highly recommend adding <a href="http://candlewick.com/r/greenplace-babymeets">A Green Place to Be: The Creation of Central Park</a> to your own collection. I think I know where we're going to be hanging out this weekend... 🌲🌳<br />
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ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-1646452024876874342019-03-04T15:25:00.001-05:002019-03-04T15:27:24.502-05:00New Kids Pasta-Making Class at Nonna Beppa Soho!If your children are big pasta lovers (<i>aren't they all?</i>), I've got a fun new weekend activity for you: kids pasta-making classes at <a href="https://www.nonnabeppa.com/">Nonna Beppa</a> in Soho! Taking place every other Sunday at noon, your child will learn how to make pasta from start to finish from one of Nonna Beppa's talented chefs. We got a chance to check out one of their <a href="https://www.nonnabeppa.com/kids-cooking-classes.html">classes</a> last month, and my girls really enjoyed learning the process of creating ravioli and tagliatelle from scratch (<i>of course, the best part was getting to eat what they made at the end</i>).<br />
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Take a look at the photos below to see more of our experience at Nonna Beppa, but I can't promise you won't be hungry for Italian at the end. Of note: parents are encouraged to sit back with a glass of wine while kids take part in class, which I have to say was MY favorite part of the day! For more information and to book class reservation, head to <a href="https://www.nonnabeppa.com/kids-cooking-classes.html">their website</a>. Ciao!</div>
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Nonna Beppa's rustic Italian restaurant is the perfect place for your child to try a <a href="https://www.nonnabeppa.com/kids-cooking-classes.html">pasta-making class</a>, and a yummy place for the entire family to have lunch afterwards. Perfect for junior chefs or any child that likes to keep their hands busy!</div>
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Disclosure: While our attendance at the class was complimentary, all thoughts herein are my own.</div>
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ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-52190815215718112192019-02-18T13:49:00.001-05:002019-02-18T13:49:31.200-05:00Kids Week at The Intrepid: Just in time for Mid-Winter Break!NYC public school kids are on mid-winter break starting today...ummm, yay?! I'm still undecided (<i>mom truth</i>). Never fear, however -- if you're not jet setting off to a fantastic tropical locale or skiing in the mountains somewhere (doesn't THAT sound dreamy), there's still plenty of staycation activities to check out this week.<br />
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For starters, <a href="https://www.intrepidmuseum.org/KidsWeek">Kids Week at The Intrepid</a> began yesterday and goes through February 23rd, and they've got a great week of STEM events ahead. Science, technology, engineering, arts and math-themed activities and entertainment will take place at this floating museum, which by the way, is a pretty interesting place on its own. Take a look at the <a href="https://www.intrepidmuseum.org/KidsWeek">week's list of activities</a> and come out for educational fun for the whole family. Highlights include workshops and activities hosted by the <a href="https://bronxzoo.com/">Bronx Zoo</a>, <a href="https://sproutupnyc.org/">SproutUP NYC</a>, the <a href="https://nyaquarium.com/">New York Aquarium</a> & the <a href="https://scitechkids.com/">Sci-tech Kids</a> (and SO much more)!<br />
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We'll be there on Wednesday for what looks like animal-palooza (<i>and yes, I partially picked that day because I want to know how all these animals are getting on an aircraft carrier</i>)! The Intrepid Museum is wheelchair accessible and ticket info can be found <a href="https://www.intrepidmuseum.org/Plan-Your-Visit/Purchase-Tickets.aspx">HERE</a> (admission also includes the Space Shuttle Pavilion, submarine Growler and all temporary exhibits).<br />
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Enjoy the week, friends, and let's make the most out of this fare city of ours (even in the freezing cold)!ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-5803523810914635772019-02-11T13:06:00.003-05:002019-02-11T13:07:14.694-05:00Curious Jane Summer Camp Opens NEW Location on UWS!I know, I know. I don't REALLY want to think about summer plans yet, either. But we all know that the long months of summer will be here before we know it, and judging from the amount of camp emails I'm already getting- other parents are bracing for it, too! AGH. With that said, I'm trying to be a bit more proactive this year as I explore different options for my girls.<br />
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One day camp program that has been on my radar for a while now is <a href="https://www.curiousjanecamp.com/">Curious Jane</a>. Have you heard of it? Founded in 2009 by a mom who wanted to give her daughters, and all young girls, a space to be creative, to explore their interests & most of all, have FUN, Curious Jane has expanded over the years to include a robust camp program, <a href="https://www.curiousjanecamp.com/after-school/">after school classes</a>, <a href="https://www.curiousjanecamp.com/parties/">birthday parties</a> and even a <a href="https://www.curiousjanecamp.com/magazine/">magazine</a>! In every Curious Jane offering you'll find themes of <i>design</i>, <i>art</i>, <i>science</i> and <i>engineering</i> that encourage girls to be creative and feel empowered. Love that!<br />
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Curious Jane offers <b><a href="https://www.curiousjanecamp.com/locations">camp for girls entering kindergarten through sixth grade</a></b> throughout Manhattan & Brooklyn and this summer that'll also include the Upper West Side. Located at the Alexander Robertson School (3 West 95th & Central Park West), Curious Jane will be offering 4 weeks of camp, with themes like <a href="https://www.curiousjanecamp.com/class-descriptions">Design Studio</a> and <a href="https://www.curiousjanecamp.com/class-descriptions">Miniature World</a>. Can I go, too?<br />
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Please check <a href="https://www.curiousjanecamp.com/summer-camp/">their website</a> for more information on camp dates and pricing, and on that note, exciting news! <b>To celebrate their new location, use CITY75 for a $75 discount on a single week of camp (ANYWHERE in Manhattan). </b><br />
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Good luck in your summer camp planning, friends!<br />
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Disclosure: I have been provided with one week of camp tuition, but all opinions herein are my own.ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-51400352448739283052019-02-02T16:02:00.000-05:002019-02-02T16:02:32.263-05:00The Little Wing (at The Wing) Has Opened!Have you heard about <a href="https://www.the-wing.com/">The Wing</a>? Perhaps seen photos of perfectly color coordinated bookshelves & heard whispers of their women's empowerment vibe on social media? I got to experience the women's community space on Monday, and let me tell you, it lives up to the hype. The airy loft space in Soho, which, like all their locations offers a gorgeous place to work, take meetings & quiet phone calls, shower & freshen up, eat organic meals in the cafe, and after hours, attend networking and speaker events with the likes of Hillary Clinton and J. Lo-- now goes one step further: <b><a href="https://www.the-wing.com/the-little-wing/">childcare!</a></b> <br />
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Yes, you can now drop off your little one (<b>between the ages of 1-6</b>) at their Soho location for a two hour block of time while you work upstairs (<i>or hey, just enjoy a quiet moment with a cup of coffee</i>). CPR and First Aid-certified Wing-sitters will engage with your child through weekly themes and activities in their cheerful play space. 2 hour windows can be booked for $25, which as we all know, is cheaper than a regular babysitter. Enrichment classes like music, theater, yoga and art will be offered for $28/class, and an open play from 9am-1pm is offered for $25 on the weekends.<br />
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<a href="https://www.the-wing.com/the-little-wing/">The Little Wing</a> will also offer parent support groups and workshops to help guide mothers in their journey as parents. And while the Soho location is the first Wing to offer childcare, founders <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/clareoconnor/2016/11/08/inside-the-wing-how-cofounders-raised-2-4m-to-open-all-women-social-and-coworking-club/#795d025f6cd0">Lauren Kassan and Audrey Gelman</a> intend to include a Little Wing in future locations as the social & co-working club continues to expand. Three cheers to that!</div>
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I was really taken with the whole vibe at <a href="https://www.the-wing.com/">The Wing</a>. It feels both uplifting and empowering that there is a place dedicated to women's ambition and leadership in what we all know is a changing, yet still male-dominated world.<br />
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For membership inquiries and more information, please visit <a href="https://www.the-wing.com/">their website</a>. Photos are by the talented <a href="https://emilygilbertphotography.com/">Emily Gilbert</a>.<br />
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ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-13359194647965814662018-12-18T14:15:00.002-05:002018-12-18T14:19:29.956-05:00Still Shopping? Check out some of our favorite things...Okay! It's crunch time for all you Christmas shoppers, and if you're anything like me, stress shopping is your jam (<i>I'm not proud of it, but at age 40... it is what it is</i>). Now that we've got that out of the way, I wanted to pass along some really cool gifted items that I've received throughout the year. Gifted, yes, but I'm only recommending the items I've received that we genuinely love and use. Life is too short to BS, my friends.<br />
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<a href="https://www.smartsketcher.com/"><b>Smart Sketcher</b></a><br />
Little artists will love the Smart Sketcher - my girls have had a lot of fun learning how to draw all sorts of designs that are projected from the Smart Sketcher on to the page below. Not only that, use the Smart Sketcher app and you can trace photos from your personal collection! Littles learning their alphabet and numbers can practice those, too, and <a href="https://www.smartsketcher.com/products/creativity-packs/">additional designs</a> are available. Such a neat device for learning the fundamentals of drawing and expressing your creativity.<br />
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<a href="https://www.lilgadgets.com/"><b>Lil Gadgets Headphones</b></a><br />
Millie has developed a budding interest in music this year, and we've loaded up the girls' iPad (<i>a hand-me-down from us</i>) with tons of music as a result. We're fully taking credit for the fact that she's into the Beatles now. :) She's been listening to a lot of tunes on her new headphones from Lil Gadgets. They're soft, comfortable and adjustable as she grows - and a great price point, too!<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.kidbox.com/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIjObZv4eh3wIVWFmGCh16uwsqEAAYASAAEgJmKfD_BwE">Kidbox</a></b><br />
The premise of Kidbox is simple. Either you or your child (depending on their age and interest in fashion) take a style quiz that determines what kid of clothes you like most. Kidbox will then send you 6-7 items handpicked by their stylists based on your quiz answers (an average of $15 per item). Only keep and pay for what you want, send back the rest free of charge! And the best part? For every box purchased, Kidbox will make a donation to the charity of your choice. Fashion AND philanthropy: I like it!<br />
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<b><a href="https://keepsakeframes.com/">Keepsake</a></b><br />
The Keepsake app allows you to frame your photos straight from your phone or via their website. We had one made recently and it turned out SO well! Frames are constructed in the USA, and the quality was beautifully done. So many frame designs to choose from, too. We all have so many photos sitting on our phones... it was so simple and fun to put one up on the wall!<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.pressmantoy.com/product/harry-potter-tri-wizard-maze/">Harry Potter Tri-Wizard Maze</a> and </b><b><a href="https://www.pressmantoy.com/product/harry-potter-magical-beasts-game/">Harry Potter Magical Beasts Game</a></b><br />
If you follow my blog or social feeds, you know my kids are obsessed with Harry Potter. These games, created by <a href="https://www.pressmantoy.com/">Pressman Toys</a>, are RIGHT up their alley! While the Maze game is for ages 5 and up and the Magical Beasts game is for ages 8 and up, it's safe to say the world of J.K. Rowling will continue to be alive and well at our house. Can't wait to play with them!<br />
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<br />ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-6585386130409173352018-12-14T12:02:00.001-05:002018-12-18T12:07:54.941-05:00 Christmas Shopping Made Easy with Babbleboxx Top Picks<a href="https://babbleboxx.com/">Babbleboxx</a> is at it again with an amazing and unique list of gifts for the creative, silly kid who may or may not have a thing for Harry Potter. Sound like anyone you know?! Check out their lineup of gifts; I'm excited to share more details about them with you!<br />
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-2da0a9e2-7fff-51dd-471c-df404b2eac29"><span style="color: #404040; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://www.candlewick.com/cat.asp?browse=Title&mode=book&isbn=0763688428&pix=y">Interrupting Chicken and the Elephant of Surprise</a></b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #404040; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">David Ezra Klein and Candlewick Press are back with a sequel to Klein's New York Times' best seller, Interrupting Chicken. This read-aloud book follows little red chicken during homework time, who's just learned about something that every good story should have: an ELEPHANT of surprise. Hee hee. Love the surprises around every corner in this book! Enter promotion code <b>CANDLEWICK</b> at checkout on <a href="http://www.candlewick.com/">their website</a> for 25% discount on all books (only valid on U.S. purchases).</span></span><br />
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<b><a href="https://shop.circuitscribe.com/products/drone-builder-kit?utm_source=babbleboxx">Circuit Scribe Drone Builder Kit</a></b><br />
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Create and fly your own drone with this circuit drawing kit from <a href="https://shop.circuitscribe.com/products/drone-builder-kit?utm_source=babbleboxx">Circuit Scribe</a>! A great gift for kids and teens who are into STEM, the kit comes with pre-made arms and allows you to draw "wires" to the motors with a conductive non-toxic silver. Connect to an app on your smart phone or Android and you will be flying your own drone in no time!<br />
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<span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #404040;"><b><a href="https://us.pez.com/products/the-grinch-gift-tin?utm_source=BB&utm_campaign=HOL18&utm_medium=in%20f">PEZ The Grinch PEZ Gift Tin</a></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #404040;"><span style="color: black;">We just saw The Grinch at the movies last weekend and loved it; have you seen it yet? These PEZ characters are going to be perfect for the girls' stockings! </span><a href="https://us.pez.com/products/the-grinch-gift-tin?utm_source=BB&utm_campaign=HOL18&utm_medium=in%20f">The Grinch PEZ Gift Tin</a><span style="color: black;"> includes 4 iconic characters from Dr. Seuss' classic tale and the movie, which is out currently: The Grinch, Cindy Lou, Fred and Max. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><a href="https://shop.scholastic.com/parent-ecommerce/books/klutz-jr-my-clothespin-zoo-9781338216240.html">Klutz Book & Craft Kits</a></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://shop.scholastic.com/parent-ecommerce/books/klutz-jr-my-clothespin-zoo-9781338216240.html">Klutz Jr. My Clothespin Zoo</a></span><br />
<span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My arts-n-craft gals are going to love this first introduction to sewing from Klutz Jr. Everything they need to create up to 10 adorable animals with clothespins is included in this kit. Not only will the projects help them continue to build fine-motor skills, but they'll have a lot of fun learning about animals in the process! </span><br />
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<a href="https://shop.scholastic.com/parent-ecommerce/books/klutz-jr-my-simple-sewing-9781338271294.html">Klutz Jr. My Simple Sewing</a></span><br />
Next up, yummy play food crafts (a cookie key chain, a pizza pouch and a cupcake plushie) using pre-cut and pre-punched felt with a plastic needle. Perfect for those little preschool hands who are being introduced to sewing for the first time while building fine motor skills and dexterity. So sweet!<br />
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<a href="http://bit.ly/HarryPotterDD"><b>Funko 5 Star Albus Dumbledore Pop Figurine</b></a></span><br />
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How great is this deal on a Funko collectible for Harry Potter fans! Albus Dumbledore is one of Millie's very favorites, and she's going to love this accessory from <a href="http://bit.ly/HarryPotterDD">Deep Discount</a> (<b>not to mention the 10% off discount sitewide, which ends at midnight CT on 12/18</b>). They also offer a beautiful hardcover edition of <a href="https://www.deepdiscount.com/harry-potter-and-the-prisoner-of-azkaban-the-illustrated-edition-harry-potter/9780545791342">Harry Potter and The Prisoner of Azkaban: The Illustrated Edition</a>, with illustrations by Jim Kay, which includes a ribbon bookmark. Incredible pricing on Harry Potter merchandise compared to other retailers -- worth checking out!<br />
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<span style="color: #404040;">Good luck finishing up your shopping -- I hope these ideas from Babbleboxx have inspired you for this Christmas or gift giving in the new year! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #404040;">Disclosure: This post is sponsored by <a href="https://babbleboxx.com/">Babbleboxx</a>. All opinions herein are my own. </span></span>ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-70366502830151777032018-11-30T14:24:00.002-05:002018-11-30T15:44:22.442-05:00How to Raise a Kid: the 1st Conference from HuffPost ParentsI recently attended <a href="https://www.huffpost.com/life/parents">HuffPost Parents</a>' first parenting conference, <a href="https://howtoraiseakid.splashthat.com/">How to Raise a Kid</a>, at the <a href="https://www.thewilliamvale.com/?utm_campaign=SEARCH_GOOGLE_obBC_osAL_dvAL_taKW_btCC_BRAND_10102018&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_adgroup=William-Vale-Hotel_Exact&utm_keyword=william%20vale%20hotel&utm_sitelink=&utm_matchype=e&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIuYLt6KT73gIV8v_jBx1Vxw30EAAYASAAEgIK-vD_BwE">William Vale Hotel</a> in Brooklyn. The one-day event was geared towards parents who are past the baby and toddler stage and have children beginning to navigate the world on their own. GULP. That is definitely the current state of affairs around here.<br />
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I thoroughly enjoyed the conference and tried to soak in every morsel of parenting advice that came my way during the panel sessions (<i>unfortunately I missed Abby Wambach's <a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/abby-wambach-blended-families_n_5c0007a1e4b08506231a7ac8">introduction</a> due to my aforementioned children and school drop off. Parenting never ends). </i>Scribbling notes for most of the day, I've finally had a chance to go through everything and see what wise words I can share from a wide range of parenting experts. Here we go!<br />
<br />
<b><u>How to Raise a Kid Who's Stronger than a Bully</u></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #142065;">Moderator: Eric Snow, </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DUTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6O3EFniI-2FVqFj0AUDpY8-2Foq7DiY3pPfbKFwqKnQVxBzj_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFUhiNDYYKBMfgScLhMZgA3nURiOdjX-2FjctqA65mZnevvK3jy591VuyOXVEHSOwTY9NM2MNqMwtE6v-2Bs9Xh2ktGocg-2BsJdU5Cv91FVF4hrXMDLokWoPtC2gmYNRzyPpfBbFcdXMHoTR5FPJKvTmZAbh7ObcIOg1yJIkBlt576PIvRAfIpsduJWk2T0zehXKMmA5IsWx8X7a67-2FJ89IsUk6GgkXu2thwOLMW1SWewJJJ-2F8-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435551000&usg=AFQjCNHPoj1eSvTQbXGobpm0mcHngQO56A" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=UTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6O3EFniI-2FVqFj0AUDpY8-2Foq7DiY3pPfbKFwqKnQVxBzj_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFUhiNDYYKBMfgScLhMZgA3nURiOdjX-2FjctqA65mZnevvK3jy591VuyOXVEHSOwTY9NM2MNqMwtE6v-2Bs9Xh2ktGocg-2BsJdU5Cv91FVF4hrXMDLokWoPtC2gmYNRzyPpfBbFcdXMHoTR5FPJKvTmZAbh7ObcIOg1yJIkBlt576PIvRAfIpsduJWk2T0zehXKMmA5IsWx8X7a67-2FJ89IsUk6GgkXu2thwOLMW1SWewJJJ-2F8-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Watch DOGS</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #142065;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #142065;">Panelists: </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #142065;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #142065;">Dr. Deborah Pope, </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DnYugbY3v9v-2FRYm7aO6WhartdRtoPA6-2FdnTX4Cx63ux537BGDjHxdPVXKVQWFu5WX_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo6rd6GXjM2DfNsZ4DEI6jDcSUPmSk8i5pLA505lf4lF5-2BdO9ZCHd0xmEVtMNDRXWYrqn09eRfse9dttkix5zh2GMuiZXBEtm-2BR16MV73z0pRCKnW-2FZ5mHrNvWL-2FuhC8TfbiYBnTbqwVNcwuQ3MK7c5WUoZUG7uKeGDfWZ-2BfY6mAGl-2BS5LUMYYD0aiw7Pw-2Fj0kFHkrBlxDPa5pZ6OHh2mhtR32mzAc4IUIZXZ22ovGvOmVRQCS5NVZY-2FzAOuI5Xs2JM-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435551000&usg=AFQjCNGqminbJeHrbVC1UjwP4wN1N8NXRQ" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=nYugbY3v9v-2FRYm7aO6WhartdRtoPA6-2FdnTX4Cx63ux537BGDjHxdPVXKVQWFu5WX_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo6rd6GXjM2DfNsZ4DEI6jDcSUPmSk8i5pLA505lf4lF5-2BdO9ZCHd0xmEVtMNDRXWYrqn09eRfse9dttkix5zh2GMuiZXBEtm-2BR16MV73z0pRCKnW-2FZ5mHrNvWL-2FuhC8TfbiYBnTbqwVNcwuQ3MK7c5WUoZUG7uKeGDfWZ-2BfY6mAGl-2BS5LUMYYD0aiw7Pw-2Fj0kFHkrBlxDPa5pZ6OHh2mhtR32mzAc4IUIZXZ22ovGvOmVRQCS5NVZY-2FzAOuI5Xs2JM-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Ezra Jack Keats Foundation</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #142065;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #142065;">Dr. Elizabeth Englander, </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DUTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6HrWv8TPLu1Gy8-2F0syRrCvDNGR0cKx4FyCggLt1jJwLq_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo7Q7p8wmRTHGMtdhRxJIpEN3r4azhfG2P5MsRCC5hjwf0L0G2LpBnA9nCnTE8Ko9EX7OZxEFuObEhmpLOvWC7uudQejPIVkU-2FOa5xUl8TT7-2B4CR5OX-2BSPu4R9JKp-2F4GPow4FD0jqYK4NFYhaF-2BR7kRFyN3CEWGv636fdnxEKr-2B1ThI1Mp0d-2B6cK3qOtqv0BMa74O0moE1a-2BDA5lQog0MLSPWA2cCy0rP7RC-2FPWDXmVswXrk-2FIZPqFYyVOWFQy8fiP4-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435551000&usg=AFQjCNGadqx1qFLIhUsrvQ6CTpI1WVAr8Q" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=UTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6HrWv8TPLu1Gy8-2F0syRrCvDNGR0cKx4FyCggLt1jJwLq_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo7Q7p8wmRTHGMtdhRxJIpEN3r4azhfG2P5MsRCC5hjwf0L0G2LpBnA9nCnTE8Ko9EX7OZxEFuObEhmpLOvWC7uudQejPIVkU-2FOa5xUl8TT7-2B4CR5OX-2BSPu4R9JKp-2F4GPow4FD0jqYK4NFYhaF-2BR7kRFyN3CEWGv636fdnxEKr-2B1ThI1Mp0d-2B6cK3qOtqv0BMa74O0moE1a-2BDA5lQog0MLSPWA2cCy0rP7RC-2FPWDXmVswXrk-2FIZPqFYyVOWFQy8fiP4-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Massachusetts Aggression Reduction Center</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #142065;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #142065;">Kirk Smalley, </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DUTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6EGW2KE9H51f-2FhYakBCRf4rLIDFpDg3HA56s8e8Vfw01_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5Wu5OU0z0aE4rvFgJ6UreJhgYYSd7-2B7QfYPJFjG-2FOVTP95TTj5uIlsA-2BsQGFCp25piI76uP6ca4iUJBiSYfluz-2BaQyAOW6c6LcGpa-2BqcsuAK3MaZhGDsJRN3K4NVse-2BDnQKQCbV9TUHGuVXwaTLEF99-2FZMY8-2FjqNmTBfnrGrGUE7NPxVV6UeHTdzld2JAQVAeqf605bopEUf4gmnBRkb9oRrXsxxwFBI2uVdWFZl-2Fe8HkhOIULu2BLR13eXBgt9PY-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435551000&usg=AFQjCNG3u9_lKNJpwXEk0OynVrJAcvbpBA" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=UTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6EGW2KE9H51f-2FhYakBCRf4rLIDFpDg3HA56s8e8Vfw01_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5Wu5OU0z0aE4rvFgJ6UreJhgYYSd7-2B7QfYPJFjG-2FOVTP95TTj5uIlsA-2BsQGFCp25piI76uP6ca4iUJBiSYfluz-2BaQyAOW6c6LcGpa-2BqcsuAK3MaZhGDsJRN3K4NVse-2BDnQKQCbV9TUHGuVXwaTLEF99-2FZMY8-2FjqNmTBfnrGrGUE7NPxVV6UeHTdzld2JAQVAeqf605bopEUf4gmnBRkb9oRrXsxxwFBI2uVdWFZl-2Fe8HkhOIULu2BLR13eXBgt9PY-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Stand For The Silent</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #142065;"> (check out their GoFundMe </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DUTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6JaGVRhLPK1tULRFbbNZGwh2J-2FWJ5Y1aN4-2BadY0Ojea9GiHxY9ynb8WQdojq1E9iMBhv8pdv8dZU14Nl5YPD9Fg-3D_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo4Hy4-2FoYugFx-2F6IuYjmGon42lIhJK5znFk9d7aA4YvL1FAqvsgZy9vEsxt0F3pn1AJdcxT3-2Fty-2BZbfqSnmx5TrM31T8IRQL2YsK3UgEMvYzAKUxri3CutS-2BgdPnvxrmT5-2B5Xr3HLkFohtd92MAKawu-2BGfqOXDejqVCinMrO9Hofb6lf8F5I5UlWej0ESdH-2FCzCr603nZKCCGkdDjZmGczbrF73Wp2THNHeJGAFTAThJLW7FH2h6VfLy2xmZk1CS7wI-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435551000&usg=AFQjCNHMqAzsqp_KvULPi5sLmRVtLw3DOA" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=UTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6JaGVRhLPK1tULRFbbNZGwh2J-2FWJ5Y1aN4-2BadY0Ojea9GiHxY9ynb8WQdojq1E9iMBhv8pdv8dZU14Nl5YPD9Fg-3D_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo4Hy4-2FoYugFx-2F6IuYjmGon42lIhJK5znFk9d7aA4YvL1FAqvsgZy9vEsxt0F3pn1AJdcxT3-2Fty-2BZbfqSnmx5TrM31T8IRQL2YsK3UgEMvYzAKUxri3CutS-2BgdPnvxrmT5-2B5Xr3HLkFohtd92MAKawu-2BGfqOXDejqVCinMrO9Hofb6lf8F5I5UlWej0ESdH-2FCzCr603nZKCCGkdDjZmGczbrF73Wp2THNHeJGAFTAThJLW7FH2h6VfLy2xmZk1CS7wI-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #142065;">)</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #142065;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #142065;">Ryan Beale, </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DUTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6Oma2b6o8EnJOXZlCiL0P-2B7RmcNK3mvU4wB-2Bi6LpQav0_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo6at9Jy1IHoPchBW2VKOwltLOckwkFrEPJXpcyluvV1rtxS7aL5G1h-2BfncHUnzMV4O7FJMxYsVhtN79zRepKYziuJSk5JhdmlyvG-2FiLA41nTJeRnzqed6AZuYSbb7dYqq8g85oeBOMHbEmeFG2gohHg6gm1BaFUjBo-2BsgJflqaQITi3S8Cd2zjQXxN3G2MqqPZrM0YPrZt4z1EOdWZ0Vrvtqw2mPT-2FoLo3apxwNBJwlNJm94ZyA7eyzMQwg-2BOTBeXA-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435551000&usg=AFQjCNGdqadrNpdEjrVukInCSPuNuRih2g" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=UTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6Oma2b6o8EnJOXZlCiL0P-2B7RmcNK3mvU4wB-2Bi6LpQav0_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo6at9Jy1IHoPchBW2VKOwltLOckwkFrEPJXpcyluvV1rtxS7aL5G1h-2BfncHUnzMV4O7FJMxYsVhtN79zRepKYziuJSk5JhdmlyvG-2FiLA41nTJeRnzqed6AZuYSbb7dYqq8g85oeBOMHbEmeFG2gohHg6gm1BaFUjBo-2BsgJflqaQITi3S8Cd2zjQXxN3G2MqqPZrM0YPrZt4z1EOdWZ0Vrvtqw2mPT-2FoLo3apxwNBJwlNJm94ZyA7eyzMQwg-2BOTBeXA-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Prepare U Mental Health Curriculum</a></span><br />
<br />
Bullying is more psychological than physical; it's an imbalance of power. And it's not just about being mean- the bully's focus is on a target, & the repetition of that imbalance of power. Girls are more likely to be bullied within friend groups. As parents, how can we help our children cope? By helping them learn connectiveness and supporting the development of healthy relationships. <b>EMPATHY</b> is so important, as well as meaningful conversations, asking questions and demonstrating positivity through our actions.<br />
<br />
<b>SUICIDE</b> is the 3rd largest cause of death in children (<i>I was shocked by this one</i>). Reinforce with your children that they are <b>SOMEBODY</b>.<br />
<br />
More diverse books are needed for children, so kids can see themselves represented. There's a connection that develops when a parent reads to a child- it's so important. Ask questions about the book- make it interactive. See books as allies and a trip that can help you solve a problem.<br />
<br />
Bringing school into the equation: parents should be involved, and schools should try and create a community. Take ownership and lead by example. Social media heightens anxiety (<i>also a problem in children</i>) - talk to kids about what social media actually is and how it effects connectiveness.<br />
<br />
<b>FAMILY DINNERS</b> are crucial- kids whose families eat together do better because everyone is talking and connecting (also, parents- don't beat yourself up if it doesn't happen every night, but keep it on the top of your priority list).<br />
<br />
<b>LISTEN</b> with your heart. Sometimes you can't fix it as a parent. And we don't have to have all the answers- really hearing your child is what's most important.<br />
<br />
<b><u>How to Raise a Screen-Savvy Kid</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #142065;">Moderator: Nicole Dreiske, </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DUTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6FHZsOqymKVVhY-2Bg7NDitHNku1EtZKRA0N60J4ra704O_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo42zA02oH-2F-2B4pMspVfiJdLBksvjk9DKzeRxpg3kZW-2Fhi7wLRxDoQdsgdMyJy1vk6VFgEhC9CRdhaqkV9gBBVPsoQoehwHs1SuXP-2F7gBw7YovSEKQk-2FWjizD8P541PJW8Ce7727m5livgdDtiTJUJ9FNkErsUPGrSWu0EQbTe8khRn2cwI8ZskzuBej0SJJG0T1yNBKgmXdFE0lEeLyIQGk9oJ-2FsP8yAOXwz0RJFgW74LcXmbVPHZIV1eGenTYdg4eA-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435552000&usg=AFQjCNGWByEpw0a3JlN6obSLSJA32GbJKA" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=UTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6FHZsOqymKVVhY-2Bg7NDitHNku1EtZKRA0N60J4ra704O_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo42zA02oH-2F-2B4pMspVfiJdLBksvjk9DKzeRxpg3kZW-2Fhi7wLRxDoQdsgdMyJy1vk6VFgEhC9CRdhaqkV9gBBVPsoQoehwHs1SuXP-2F7gBw7YovSEKQk-2FWjizD8P541PJW8Ce7727m5livgdDtiTJUJ9FNkErsUPGrSWu0EQbTe8khRn2cwI8ZskzuBej0SJJG0T1yNBKgmXdFE0lEeLyIQGk9oJ-2FsP8yAOXwz0RJFgW74LcXmbVPHZIV1eGenTYdg4eA-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">International Children’s Media Center</a></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #142065;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Panelists:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #142065;">Angela Santomero, </span></span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DUTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6Kiqlc0belgp37HWyV25XU41-2BHj8K10KLYuv5Yundzxi_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo4oWxJSzqibzYS8i3GWk9EMlOuFAWyGioRyRz4jjQWJN6bmpUfzr2SS5SKTcrXsvbv5VP1VMolbhL6J1fPzS6QNua1qN0IwKHGOk7b7MKxphHSybfeWaaS67JMBALjULCE85KP9nZv5jm1zUGNw1LvwZsz4IVvKkZfiU6mOI4aLQ6cRvWvPI72ZbrSb11bCNo5ZGmypod1Xbhc8ZpN83BH53G-2B3dDRdT0-2FYQNFIYmngTGaF74epbQXJKQWQiwpQ5gE-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435552000&usg=AFQjCNHtgDcAdJP3mkyg86QkeXA5i0KorQ" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=UTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6Kiqlc0belgp37HWyV25XU41-2BHj8K10KLYuv5Yundzxi_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo4oWxJSzqibzYS8i3GWk9EMlOuFAWyGioRyRz4jjQWJN6bmpUfzr2SS5SKTcrXsvbv5VP1VMolbhL6J1fPzS6QNua1qN0IwKHGOk7b7MKxphHSybfeWaaS67JMBALjULCE85KP9nZv5jm1zUGNw1LvwZsz4IVvKkZfiU6mOI4aLQ6cRvWvPI72ZbrSb11bCNo5ZGmypod1Xbhc8ZpN83BH53G-2B3dDRdT0-2FYQNFIYmngTGaF74epbQXJKQWQiwpQ5gE-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Angela’s Clues</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #142065; font-family: inherit;">Jill Murphy, </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DUTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6MrxckXg-2FR4AGWm4eU-2FVDPTPSk14bQvbPRFWdpkSgiPw_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo4Z1CLiHtMyd7-2B8M8uKMpEEdzKiMnBOjEMe2qbV5AyhfmeUIxmA3XCEXJKYwO98EL987nBCIdNyNz5y6wCUyf5RO8-2Bxbb3MephKYh3JOIKRaXsv73lS2GTafAIF9UbgyKxiGWUnvH7O-2Bp7qOmq907PLnIBGlyMSxTI1ubQ0Grl6R1qTGRperEW7OAOUk6zUPQkpoX5OvfzomeeE4OLEFg0pqq5wMVm6gAW-2FrzQw-2BUBrNOgrnDIeVLn9hoFIUB805Uo-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435552000&usg=AFQjCNFRo6NKtTrG4ydGs775JY0aYTnxig" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=UTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6MrxckXg-2FR4AGWm4eU-2FVDPTPSk14bQvbPRFWdpkSgiPw_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo4Z1CLiHtMyd7-2B8M8uKMpEEdzKiMnBOjEMe2qbV5AyhfmeUIxmA3XCEXJKYwO98EL987nBCIdNyNz5y6wCUyf5RO8-2Bxbb3MephKYh3JOIKRaXsv73lS2GTafAIF9UbgyKxiGWUnvH7O-2Bp7qOmq907PLnIBGlyMSxTI1ubQ0Grl6R1qTGRperEW7OAOUk6zUPQkpoX5OvfzomeeE4OLEFg0pqq5wMVm6gAW-2FrzQw-2BUBrNOgrnDIeVLn9hoFIUB805Uo-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Common Sense Media</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #142065; font-family: inherit;">Sada Malladi, </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DUTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6B2DhatT7ABt9ucXk2bbqbo-3D_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFDwkxd4eU-2FRYo-2BhyvVA6DJh2hr4L9cfVht4wJ7xjPwubGa-2FqX9yWcYO0P0vMIBFnfOHI6K0MBwnazEPDyDU5K2wBVuvjazLZTiR5OBY6fZsovfNPnDC8agBPeNG4h5NXYGyw7Z6RTRaIJvVw2l8BCMlZmAmYYDTM04doF-2Fv1EQ60-2Bi3ATCc8BtqmfgwnO4qjBCOVJTMW4cnTlFQLLFIGcs0eG3L-2F-2F2lEUfq4msA2bxFk-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435552000&usg=AFQjCNGENgiWSPNcYNmjaESHG2y4bNSX0Q" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=UTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6B2DhatT7ABt9ucXk2bbqbo-3D_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFDwkxd4eU-2FRYo-2BhyvVA6DJh2hr4L9cfVht4wJ7xjPwubGa-2FqX9yWcYO0P0vMIBFnfOHI6K0MBwnazEPDyDU5K2wBVuvjazLZTiR5OBY6fZsovfNPnDC8agBPeNG4h5NXYGyw7Z6RTRaIJvVw2l8BCMlZmAmYYDTM04doF-2Fv1EQ60-2Bi3ATCc8BtqmfgwnO4qjBCOVJTMW4cnTlFQLLFIGcs0eG3L-2F-2F2lEUfq4msA2bxFk-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Vimana</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #142065; font-family: inherit;">Titania Jordan, </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DUTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6F8E90oRivH9sWIUDECPBjg-3D_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFsnldsrXUyoh2-2BVw4cQq9CNho-2FPHdwbPVywFa7fZpOwj8ainocLsqMsDeueziaXxuGRhpqW6r8pN1p85d9i7-2BgcnTrDoz-2BkDi9KgXJ11gVyrGXlfTtWbuMPfVp8NekCBPHEi2CeAy0R93UCsGSjDbwrKl0kcBFmsL0T5T2LbdpzlHYgjKQ3WMh5rf3gi7UXUv8Cwwhz7ONr6g6AtxRrPRG9lsps0sXFw9wG-2BYM3MJHU8-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435552000&usg=AFQjCNEOIbtv6sBD4PZoxPMxqUDRmhPiqg" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=UTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6F8E90oRivH9sWIUDECPBjg-3D_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFsnldsrXUyoh2-2BVw4cQq9CNho-2FPHdwbPVywFa7fZpOwj8ainocLsqMsDeueziaXxuGRhpqW6r8pN1p85d9i7-2BgcnTrDoz-2BkDi9KgXJ11gVyrGXlfTtWbuMPfVp8NekCBPHEi2CeAy0R93UCsGSjDbwrKl0kcBFmsL0T5T2LbdpzlHYgjKQ3WMh5rf3gi7UXUv8Cwwhz7ONr6g6AtxRrPRG9lsps0sXFw9wG-2BYM3MJHU8-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Bark</a><br />
<br />
Start with education- accept the fact that screens are a part of today's world, and find tools to deal with them. Embrace what your children are into and talk to them about it. Get rid of the guilt, not all media is bad. Narrate what <b>YOU</b> are doing on your screen, because it's not just a phone, it's also your computer. Know your kid- some kids are ready for screens earlier than others.<br />
<br />
What should we tell them about the Internet? Kids want to explore, but <b>GROUND RULES</b> are important. Be there for communication. Research free parental controls. Talk every day. Identify those stories that ask questions and don't hand everything to you. Find the teachable moment even in bad videos. When do you give a child a smartphone? You have to evaluate what is best for your family and your needs.<br />
<br />
<b><u>How to Raise a Kid Who Understands Sex, Consent and Gender</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #142065;">Moderator: </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DUTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6ASf0BH3OmVTJHKMJ89s-2Ba-2BBLv4nzz8kZhJJZmYiavrA_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnF8-2Bd7R6Dpv741DFH6NFAnJD-2Ft16OCNXrEJkGomoFT0RqFyMTnJGfLQ0j-2BV-2F6URXsW8I4cbQm8KdJ9sBJWgSN3BlgX6D-2BTOhthcNO0Jeluz2bPbUWvRrJmAG4Dgdy7uBICgv-2FUEBXwKp8hWGzZKpcrB7pSQf6FF2JTj-2BG63qFxYAU8W0DqsK44dc1PfeNVUUb9i02Z6cJUPDfjjBoRo9SKeOWeo9yoCTBypQpSarGGHlM-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435552000&usg=AFQjCNErd1MhS0evvh3Byn3vAIzviOL_0A" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=UTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6ASf0BH3OmVTJHKMJ89s-2Ba-2BBLv4nzz8kZhJJZmYiavrA_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnF8-2Bd7R6Dpv741DFH6NFAnJD-2Ft16OCNXrEJkGomoFT0RqFyMTnJGfLQ0j-2BV-2F6URXsW8I4cbQm8KdJ9sBJWgSN3BlgX6D-2BTOhthcNO0Jeluz2bPbUWvRrJmAG4Dgdy7uBICgv-2FUEBXwKp8hWGzZKpcrB7pSQf6FF2JTj-2BG63qFxYAU8W0DqsK44dc1PfeNVUUb9i02Z6cJUPDfjjBoRo9SKeOWeo9yoCTBypQpSarGGHlM-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Doyin Richards</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #142065;">Panelists:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DnYugbY3v9v-2FRYm7aO6WhaglujrjW0-2FROQtpvSs92SxfsCzLKTUOHxJxoBaPyY8S1_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFOa-2FNGlvVVK5a0NBSx7ztT0hbfA6-2FKyt0VLBfKxZm2rY0oPholaYvDQm98xOO3vcKiBaKYZDkgEgeqSAB5or8HIx81bESbfDxZl24qdBdWQg-2B-2BZUECrsZx3pTarEpsivDHtdYM1jp1j-2Fnb6bEXsEC1HG56elaiatzD4JtTgRvxeDusD7SPDT5U6ArHlDR3CwaBdxjq0G6ZXRyrZfNDGVhp-2BsFgy52YZ3sB-2Fmn06URRWE-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435552000&usg=AFQjCNEmROTk9h-Tkz0qmn5JzlZdEJwg5w" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=nYugbY3v9v-2FRYm7aO6WhaglujrjW0-2FROQtpvSs92SxfsCzLKTUOHxJxoBaPyY8S1_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFOa-2FNGlvVVK5a0NBSx7ztT0hbfA6-2FKyt0VLBfKxZm2rY0oPholaYvDQm98xOO3vcKiBaKYZDkgEgeqSAB5or8HIx81bESbfDxZl24qdBdWQg-2B-2BZUECrsZx3pTarEpsivDHtdYM1jp1j-2Fnb6bEXsEC1HG56elaiatzD4JtTgRvxeDusD7SPDT5U6ArHlDR3CwaBdxjq0G6ZXRyrZfNDGVhp-2BsFgy52YZ3sB-2Fmn06URRWE-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Carvell Wallace</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DUTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6EesEtYXqXGocT4-2BSkByu-2FS-2Byft7W64jYZxvAXXnNT4VmcaxdpgcoBdkTaXK9NWqFpKKoCv2YazvA4g67B8viIK1ZiuZldlOONHq6aHekDXB_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFvguneiV68wXfguG4QyaeJwDQTBweoTgs-2Fedv6SjDViBJM87-2BG1jF6ZRS9gDgQGCOJ0rk3G4obZuo9OYtnVaHU9fOPhHzLDhefBoSuRemd1A0A5LW-2BxjtR5uYqYO8dOAMJwiyTQ7offIyah1eB1IzAn4bkgDbzUaurzeo0ENH1cUu9W6iTEQX5gAKM1rLEInlWT0FuNz36n2R-2FgIuLvX8YK4oKhOw3Tn2LlVhqMjHwh0-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435552000&usg=AFQjCNFq8uQwlbfshQDJc7tA6IMNOVdclw" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=UTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6EesEtYXqXGocT4-2BSkByu-2FS-2Byft7W64jYZxvAXXnNT4VmcaxdpgcoBdkTaXK9NWqFpKKoCv2YazvA4g67B8viIK1ZiuZldlOONHq6aHekDXB_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFvguneiV68wXfguG4QyaeJwDQTBweoTgs-2Fedv6SjDViBJM87-2BG1jF6ZRS9gDgQGCOJ0rk3G4obZuo9OYtnVaHU9fOPhHzLDhefBoSuRemd1A0A5LW-2BxjtR5uYqYO8dOAMJwiyTQ7offIyah1eB1IzAn4bkgDbzUaurzeo0ENH1cUu9W6iTEQX5gAKM1rLEInlWT0FuNz36n2R-2FgIuLvX8YK4oKhOw3Tn2LlVhqMjHwh0-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Jeanette Jennings</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DUTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6AA-2Fm-2B1qnmybdBfEkvZ4-2BV0aSGPxqk-2B51xs3Cvj-2FiaQm_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFOMpMVkVvi4CI-2Bxab0Jqn4i4NPg7Jk-2BIb1zZWi9kMkWk6MMjW5AuXT-2BgCNHha50VwrFI6ipkeEsUZA-2FGmWFp0IVosl3vtcQPk7yR4A-2B67uTkW0GFS6bxc8Yyl8D1m-2FkgRmUDDBUj7wOX0p-2BCM4KGJhqgbAy-2BVSVnq-2BN-2BYQgnHHlMZ4UE0bOjUY-2BOeWI2cUx9NghZqzn-2FEYsRNdx04QosubF9IPLAz7inHGic287-2FqBkM-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435552000&usg=AFQjCNFUyPS1ATfLj4POV5PsSxqfUDLAnA" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=UTvcgVzGNEbHsXNbwDEE6AA-2Fm-2B1qnmybdBfEkvZ4-2BV0aSGPxqk-2B51xs3Cvj-2FiaQm_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFOMpMVkVvi4CI-2Bxab0Jqn4i4NPg7Jk-2BIb1zZWi9kMkWk6MMjW5AuXT-2BgCNHha50VwrFI6ipkeEsUZA-2FGmWFp0IVosl3vtcQPk7yR4A-2B67uTkW0GFS6bxc8Yyl8D1m-2FkgRmUDDBUj7wOX0p-2BCM4KGJhqgbAy-2BVSVnq-2BN-2BYQgnHHlMZ4UE0bOjUY-2BOeWI2cUx9NghZqzn-2FEYsRNdx04QosubF9IPLAz7inHGic287-2FqBkM-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Kim Cavill</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn%3DkYolAcemTLmUOvMdae4R0jc-2F2LKuyRdx-2FiuW0B4fO7zXXv981cuGUPyv8H9NSqTp_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFJiPaXYTPFWNS07fTH1isQcDJBMxN640xmH7RHvVhodlRkHCLVS3MKwj8zWaCIL-2FPxtiy-2FodLOkAXfHa-2FWNv92hJ7-2FsVFleJIqUQHUFX-2BAICLRrVuReJUHVNgO-2FKIivLb6mpKTDhAvNgs1WO6WZSEUUvrgJgeMy9jeCPGSZcpPZoV-2FGELc4JeCBlRYsd-2BSjMrnSqZSyuIVRdp1zAZDhfRv1cxilDwJrkUHFUxWwmi-2BZ4-3D&source=gmail&ust=1543636435552000&usg=AFQjCNGKUDaq69o3226dufF5J9s678wNSw" href="http://links.splash.events/wf/click?upn=kYolAcemTLmUOvMdae4R0jc-2F2LKuyRdx-2FiuW0B4fO7zXXv981cuGUPyv8H9NSqTp_3aZNPiKiDnrE-2FyBDS0qr65KFSkJnK07y9-2F04K9Yq06mrDdqVqfL-2FT4bpWWlw4iSR29zPzWL8CMM23c4d0U8qdWl-2BBdd3f0J2oXljSfC6Wo5cIXXmI2G06XzchMmqmGnFJiPaXYTPFWNS07fTH1isQcDJBMxN640xmH7RHvVhodlRkHCLVS3MKwj8zWaCIL-2FPxtiy-2FodLOkAXfHa-2FWNv92hJ7-2FsVFleJIqUQHUFX-2BAICLRrVuReJUHVNgO-2FKIivLb6mpKTDhAvNgs1WO6WZSEUUvrgJgeMy9jeCPGSZcpPZoV-2FGELc4JeCBlRYsd-2BSjMrnSqZSyuIVRdp1zAZDhfRv1cxilDwJrkUHFUxWwmi-2BZ4-3D" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Sarah Rich</a></span><br />
<br />
Sort through your own issues with sex first, if you can. Recognize the <b>CONSENT</b> conversation is just the beginning, and consent is a low bar when talking about sex education. As a parent, you're not just teaching for the moment, but for a <b>LIFETIME</b>. Don't be afraid to share your history with your children, as it will help teach them empathy. The opposite of entitlement is context awareness. The opposite of aggression is asking questions.<br />
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... and unfortunately I had to leave midway through, so these were all the notes I got! I hope you'll find some of these thoughts helpful, and if it peeks your interest, you can still watch the panels. So much helpful information and resources! A link to video from the conference can be found <b><a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/11-helpful-nuggets-of-wisdom-huffpost-parents-conference_n_5be303d2e4b0dbe871a5b72a">HERE</a></b>. I really enjoyed myself and learned a lot -- here's hoping the conference will become an annual event!<br />
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Disclosure: I was invited to the event by HuffPost Parents. All opinions are my own.ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-78568381506426994682018-11-20T13:55:00.002-05:002018-11-20T16:36:16.043-05:00J.K. Rowling and the Simple Act of a Kind ResponseLet's face it, the world is chaos lately. I find myself turning further away from the news with every horrible event that takes place - from mass shootings to wildfires to an incompetent president getting more insane by the day. Social media, which I have my own love/hate relationship with, doesn't seem to help. Except when it does (<i>cute animal videos may in fact be the antidote to all the world's ills</i>).<br />
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And here's another example. Each week, Millie is given a letter to write as part of her homework. The letter can be directed to anyone or anything: past addressees have included spaghetti and meatballs, Summer (<i>the season</i>) and her sister. In early November, Millie chose to write <a href="https://www.jkrowling.com/">J.K. Rowling</a>, as she is a massive fan of the Harry Potter series (<i>if you know Millie at all, you know how much she loves Harry Potter</i>). Having read the series now multiple times, seen all the movies, and most recently visiting <a href="https://harrypotter.nyhistory.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIkMvzycvj3gIVBUSGCh35DQnqEAAYASAAEgIYtfD_BwE">The History of Magic</a> exhibit at the NY Historical Society, it's safe to say she's Ms. Rowling's biggest fan. See note below:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_3PzA6WOMstK61Dbg2UPCWn4a3g0qsEJS1DRIdw9IIDzeJXUAfdVDNvDqgAdH6MLFinQJnfwsDCzlnvyGy9jF4ZpN48zuIUQe-2rCrnOfhWMWh4Beuf5ndc36yVITidJSKsw0ZbGv7Kc/s1600/letter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="534" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_3PzA6WOMstK61Dbg2UPCWn4a3g0qsEJS1DRIdw9IIDzeJXUAfdVDNvDqgAdH6MLFinQJnfwsDCzlnvyGy9jF4ZpN48zuIUQe-2rCrnOfhWMWh4Beuf5ndc36yVITidJSKsw0ZbGv7Kc/s640/letter.jpg" width="460" /></a></div>
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I loved the note so much (<i>girl power!</i>) that on a whim I decided to post it on Twitter, as I know Rowling is active on the site. I certainly didn't think I'd get any response from her, but I thought if a fellow Harry Potter fan saw the note, they'd get a kick out of it. Well, almost right away, I noticed that she liked the post. And then moments later, we got this response:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjebcj7A3Fhyphenhyphen6gLSzWjlI0ZdT77Sj5qSKdVFeHEM406ObYs2rDVREJvps1k3xD17XjCGoccliPXRcPYkSLZC8X0HFjfDtckqJ3xjvqQUzsdmujR4YcRsOT4fkh7uJWfu0O-LcmZC5pC-ag/s1600/response.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="839" data-original-width="608" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjebcj7A3Fhyphenhyphen6gLSzWjlI0ZdT77Sj5qSKdVFeHEM406ObYs2rDVREJvps1k3xD17XjCGoccliPXRcPYkSLZC8X0HFjfDtckqJ3xjvqQUzsdmujR4YcRsOT4fkh7uJWfu0O-LcmZC5pC-ag/s640/response.jpg" width="462" /></a></div>
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SO AMAZING! Honestly, we're all still in a bit of shock that she responded with such a sweet note, and so quickly. Her kind gesture meant so much to Millie, and all of us, and serves to illustrate the beautiful part of Twitter, and social media in general -- that power to connect us, in an instant. The post has garnered almost 5000 likes on Twitter, and I wanted to share just a few of the lovely responses that it received -- </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQX8-B-NE_ZG6au8_RHH9FqdGY_KjliqCF3wS8BPpe1n3yfkvpvE369WmGzFqzfAk2GoyMF6D-LNpOSumRAX8gj98U8TKEhTF4F18aoK0_PpOWZ26oVf3FGeE-6NJaP-ryt3gUPcobvdA/s1600/response1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="144" data-original-width="609" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQX8-B-NE_ZG6au8_RHH9FqdGY_KjliqCF3wS8BPpe1n3yfkvpvE369WmGzFqzfAk2GoyMF6D-LNpOSumRAX8gj98U8TKEhTF4F18aoK0_PpOWZ26oVf3FGeE-6NJaP-ryt3gUPcobvdA/s640/response1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnxNU1tT8JiANC3GHaDsdPUHFlrHNc5PNHZUg7eMCfHGQOAnDH4E-seoAQCu6ZBVjZHgCnYzIaHSbMIHgIBD69IbU1Zzxf3s-Y2utmVxdweoIZskScsZzJiBWH5qP6IOlOewyku06bR_E/s1600/response2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="668" data-original-width="617" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnxNU1tT8JiANC3GHaDsdPUHFlrHNc5PNHZUg7eMCfHGQOAnDH4E-seoAQCu6ZBVjZHgCnYzIaHSbMIHgIBD69IbU1Zzxf3s-Y2utmVxdweoIZskScsZzJiBWH5qP6IOlOewyku06bR_E/s640/response2.jpg" width="590" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6awru6-x0sRagBQrBMYIAfu9chsVh6CPFBJSt14xvS2VCJLFC3GhVz2ZXJB3l_oAPDgISqycmF-UKg612IcAzKVuXs9dHc8OvoEI1aC1JRzjIaz4p5iLv_tWaTBstBSzogAr1UkG0nxw/s1600/response3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="114" data-original-width="473" height="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6awru6-x0sRagBQrBMYIAfu9chsVh6CPFBJSt14xvS2VCJLFC3GhVz2ZXJB3l_oAPDgISqycmF-UKg612IcAzKVuXs9dHc8OvoEI1aC1JRzjIaz4p5iLv_tWaTBstBSzogAr1UkG0nxw/s640/response3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoR-npQ3iHjZUIodIqltPawij52H5VMfvk_K7V04VVY5YNtO_jsXCFQegLs9SWNjyg7iEyJiHFCiV7DZf2Mx4qghF7EbRzAFD5Jpj2iyTz_ZJrYOL_P-rcFiupIX63PtNHvhvRdb8BZlk/s1600/response4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="114" data-original-width="531" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoR-npQ3iHjZUIodIqltPawij52H5VMfvk_K7V04VVY5YNtO_jsXCFQegLs9SWNjyg7iEyJiHFCiV7DZf2Mx4qghF7EbRzAFD5Jpj2iyTz_ZJrYOL_P-rcFiupIX63PtNHvhvRdb8BZlk/s640/response4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdgPeMSZYif03SYZreiHqdr6tbDkSV3B0XPrW1ymyfsaEGWAtFHlVejky0vyuVSAZKzEx5dIc8g_tRrLLV3OkLAtGCe1LJF8kujr-qcW4aPIEzb5giS8S88oB3zCAwoDvBdW_82ldMKBA/s1600/response7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="122" data-original-width="572" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdgPeMSZYif03SYZreiHqdr6tbDkSV3B0XPrW1ymyfsaEGWAtFHlVejky0vyuVSAZKzEx5dIc8g_tRrLLV3OkLAtGCe1LJF8kujr-qcW4aPIEzb5giS8S88oB3zCAwoDvBdW_82ldMKBA/s640/response7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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One letter to her hero, one simple response, and a whole lot of people escaped to something happy that warmed their hearts. In looking at the bigger picture, it just goes to show you how one small action can do amazing things... if only for a moment. And in today's world, I'll take it. 🗲🗲</div>
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Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!</div>
ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-60656975087292707312018-10-22T11:33:00.003-04:002018-10-22T11:33:57.229-04:00Big Apple Books: This is My Eye: A New York StoryI'm so happy to introduce my latest Big Apple Book selection, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/This-My-Eye-York-Story/dp/0763676160">This is My Eye: A New York Story</a>, written by my Inwood neighbor <a href="https://www.instagram.com/neelavaswani/">Neela Vaswani</a> (<i>a hilarious discovery we made thanks to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/babymeetscity/">Instagram</a></i>)! This children's read-along book is a gift to young readers as well as New York City, which is brought to life from a child's view of the world and her surroundings.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi26GapwKBNXVjffxbq06o9TludcNMka68mNrdY4Co-M1eu9jUPT0VPlMwzV-5GCJ40SvVYLZzcBrIHdZLBtbXrqN1-BFeHhyF7x1UbM8WSGcZHqZJaNUHvov0cgk8iYBkLbwFWBjjlW8/s1600/ThisIsMyEyeCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1002" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi26GapwKBNXVjffxbq06o9TludcNMka68mNrdY4Co-M1eu9jUPT0VPlMwzV-5GCJ40SvVYLZzcBrIHdZLBtbXrqN1-BFeHhyF7x1UbM8WSGcZHqZJaNUHvov0cgk8iYBkLbwFWBjjlW8/s640/ThisIsMyEyeCover.jpg" width="638" /></a></div>
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Not only is it entertaining to see New York City through the lens of a child, <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/This-My-Eye-York-Story/dp/0763676160">This is My Eye</a></i> also serves as a reminder that as adults, we miss so much as we rush around from one activity to another. Seeing the world from a child's point of view reminds us to stop and appreciate the little things in life and beauty in the ordinary, whether it's rain drops that look like polka dots or walls that tell stories. Neela's vibrant photography and text captures this beautifully.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_0-woA4yd81XJtA1Yz5KqvfM0skzkQv1QsWxg35gmDp6z-nBR4FtgLZV2mAfgfHXzF6v9rGR9FMhn8SB8rs95_aVArnny-iDLiI2DXS23NywPkpAYWuT0k3FqF86OfgYuFneRaYy5Bd8/s1600/9780763676162+%25282%2529+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_0-woA4yd81XJtA1Yz5KqvfM0skzkQv1QsWxg35gmDp6z-nBR4FtgLZV2mAfgfHXzF6v9rGR9FMhn8SB8rs95_aVArnny-iDLiI2DXS23NywPkpAYWuT0k3FqF86OfgYuFneRaYy5Bd8/s640/9780763676162+%25282%2529+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two of my favorite pages</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjY14tQISZX2pj-8n6M687XTm6Oi6o1mze3EpDMWrgllgm7Eyi9aUzJr_KRcFb5NhUn6oyyK-gVjGJXgtt-e9Qenvb8ESowRwKrTfxQ7KmJEIqzsr9xsG8ic59pbYw_m5W3eDOLCWwZhI/s1600/IMG_9958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1566" data-original-width="1366" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjY14tQISZX2pj-8n6M687XTm6Oi6o1mze3EpDMWrgllgm7Eyi9aUzJr_KRcFb5NhUn6oyyK-gVjGJXgtt-e9Qenvb8ESowRwKrTfxQ7KmJEIqzsr9xsG8ic59pbYw_m5W3eDOLCWwZhI/s640/IMG_9958.jpg" width="556" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neela & I at my favorite local bakery, <a href="http://www.chocnyc.com/">ChocNYC</a></td></tr>
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So happy to include <a href="https://www.amazon.com/This-My-Eye-Neela-Vaswani/dp/0763676160/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1517504341&sr=1-1&keywords=neela+vaswani%2C+this+is+my+eye">This is My Eye: A New York Story</a> in my <a href="http://www.babymeetscity.com/search/label/Big%20Apple%20Books">Big Apple Books</a> collection. I highly recommend! Lastly, please find some of Neela's tips for capturing the essence of NYC with little ones in tow:<br />
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<li>Try to catch the "golden hour" together, when light is warm and magical. An hour-ish after dawn or before dusk, go outside and really notice the light. Look towards the tops of the buildings which often glow during these times of day--and glow differently depending on their height and angle and material. Great way to start thinking about light and how it affects photos. Take some photos of each other, too, in this light; it's wonderful on faces. </li>
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<li>Walk across a bridge. I'm partial to the <a href="https://www.tripsavvy.com/how-to-walk-the-brooklyn-bridge-442746" style="font-family: inherit;">Brooklyn Bridge</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, personally. Wonderful way to get distance shots and to think about perspective. Great potential shots of the bridge itself--steel and wires and brick and how they all meet in the air. Water views, boats, cars, pedestrians, clouds. Crossing a bridge always feels like an adventure! </span> </li>
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<li><a href="https://www.siferry.com/" style="font-family: inherit;">Staten Island Ferry</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">. It's free! To get a shot of the seagull that's in the book, I took the ferry back and forth eight times (four round trips). So much to see and photograph--lower Manhattan from a distance or close up. The hills of Staten Island. The ferry itself (that bright orange!), all those nautical nooks and crannies. The Statue of Liberty. The people. And, of course, the seagulls that always fly alongside the railings. </span> </li>
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<li><a href="https://www.nybg.org/" style="font-family: inherit;">New York Botanical Garden</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">. Free on Wednesdays. Take a nature walk. Practice close-ups and juxtapositions of color with flowers and leaves and butterflies and beetles. Lie on your backs in the grass take photos from that position. </span> </li>
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<li>Something you can combine with the bridge, ferry, or Botanical Garden, is taking an elevated subway--maybe a line you don't normally use. That moment of popping above ground is helpful in "training your eyes" to see potential photographs everywhere. You can discover or rediscover new parts of the city, too. Pick a stop together, somewhere you've never been. Get off the subway and wander around taking photos. </li>
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<li>Best tip for taking photos with your kids in NYC: your own block in your own neighborhood. See it with fresh eyes. Walk it slowly, east, west, north, south, taking in everything. Look at things you don't normally find interesting or beautiful (like garbage bags or stoops or buzzers or potholes) and try to appreciate and understand them better. See what's familiar from different angles. See deeply. </li>
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ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-80539773550097580522018-09-19T22:39:00.002-04:002018-09-19T22:39:46.296-04:00Plan Ahead: Free Arts NYC Benefit on September 30!We all know there are a million ways to give back and support organizations that are dedicated to investing in the needs of under-served children. But if I may, I'd like to introduce one more. <a href="https://www.freeartsnyc.org/">Free Arts NYC</a> empowers NYC youth, many of whom are living in shelters, through art and mentoring programs that develop their creativity, confidence and skills to succeed. The organization has positively impacted over 32,000 children and families and will only continue, thanks in part to community support like <a href="https://www.classy.org/event/kidsfest-2018/e196167">Kidsfest 2018</a>, which takes place on Sunday, September 30th from 10-2pm at Sotheby's.<br />
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Hosted by the hilarious and lovely <a href="https://www.jillkargman.com/welcome.html">Jill Kargman</a> (<i>who else is bummed that Odd Mom Out won't be coming back for a 4th season?!</i>), event proceeds will benefit the amazing work of <a href="https://www.freeartsnyc.org/">Free Arts NYC</a>. It promises to be a super fun event for the whole family, and an awesome way to give back at the same time.<br />
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If setting your kids loose in an incredible venue, surrounded by <a href="https://www.ponycyclestore.com/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI-I6nkNLC3QIVCcDICh0GGQWREAAYAiAAEgK7QvD_BwE">Pony Cycle</a> pony rides, <a href="https://bigapplecircus.com/">Big Apple Circus</a> entertainment, face painting, hair braiding, screen printing, art activities run by local artists and museums (the list goes ON and ON) sounds the least bit appealing - well, you've come to the right place.<br />
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Ticket info can be found <a href="https://www.classy.org/event/kidsfest-2018/e196167/register/new/select-tickets"><b>HERE</b></a> and we'll see you on Sunday, September 30th. Here's to making sure the arts are available to EVERY child in NYC.<br />
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Looking forward! 🎨🎨</div>
ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-23453319048296218762018-09-06T11:59:00.002-04:002018-09-06T11:59:39.216-04:00A Fairy Mystery with Fable & Lark at The Metropolitan Museum of ArtAs the girls get bigger (<i>and bigger.... sniffle</i>), I'm enjoying mixing my interests with theirs and seeing what develops. As an example, we planned an afternoon at <a href="https://www.metmuseum.org/">The Met</a> early in the summer. Yes, they love to CREATE art, but would they want to STARE at art for a couple hours... if I was lucky?<br />
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Much to my surprise, our artistic venture was a success! Not only did they love it, they asked when we could go back. And if I could wager a guess why, I think it's because we brought paper and pencils with us, and I told them they could stop and sketch anything they liked. Yes, the drawing was fun, but I think what they really enjoyed was taking ownership over which pieces to sketch. The surprise benefit was their interest in each piece they chose, so we made sure to read the description and talk about the artist as we made our way through the museum. Truth be told, I was ready to leave before they were!<br />
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In one afternoon I discovered what an accessible museum <a href="https://www.metmuseum.org/learn/kids-and-families">The Met</a> really is for children, and that was just us meandering around on our own. I confirmed it a few weeks later when we went back for a special "fairy mystery" tour with <a href="https://www.fableandlark.com/">Fable & Lark</a>.<br />
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Have you heard of this tour company? Conceived and operated by Evan Levy, a former Met employee herself, the guided tours open the museum up to a world of possibilities for children. The girls and I joined Evan for a tour of <a href="https://www.fableandlark.com/tours/museum-tours/#everafter">"After Ever After: A Children's Adventure</a>," discovering parts of the museum I didn't know existed, while unlocking clues to a fairy tale-themed mystery (and learning cool facts along the way).<br />
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Zig zagging our way through The Met, we listened to riddles, searched for characters in paintings, sketched a magic carpet and made a wish in a wishing well. So much fun! If you're interested in an interactive way to experience art with your children, this is a really special way to do it.<br />
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Fans of <a href="https://www.fableandlark.com/tours/museum-tours/">Harry Potter</a> and <a href="https://www.fableandlark.com/tours/museum-tours/">Percy Jackson</a> will love some of Fable & Lark's other tour themes, which are inspired by these ultra famous tales. Between our early summer visit and our tour with Fable & Lark, my girls now have an appreciation for The Met and its treasures that they didn't have before -- one I hope will only grow with time (<i>even if they insist on getting bigger</i>).<br />
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Check out the <a href="https://www.fableandlark.com/">Fable & Lark</a> website for more info - they also do birthday parties and are a great idea for out of town guests. And for ways to visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art (and other museums and cultural institutions) around the city for FREE, check out <a href="https://www.culturepass.nyc/?utm_source=nyplblog&utm_medium=website_nypl&utm_campaign=culturepass_nypl">Culture Pass</a>.<br />
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<i>All photography (except first photo) is by <a href="http://www.janettepphotography.com/">Janette Pellegrini</a>. </i><br />
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Disclosure: Our Fable & Lark admission fee was complimentary in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own.ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-59366915056191320812018-08-16T17:38:00.001-04:002018-08-16T17:38:36.743-04:00A Summer Tradition: Coney Island & Luna ParkEvery summer we head to the islands. And by islands, of course I mean Coney and <a href="http://www.babymeetscity.com/2014/09/governors-island-nyc-day-trip.html">Governors</a>. Both of these destinations are a summer rite of passage and make for a great day trip/mini escape with the family. While each destination has changed a bit since we began visiting a few years ago, Coney Island has managed to maintain its grit, uniqueness and charm.<br />
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While we've checked out the <a href="https://nyaquarium.com/">Aquarium</a> and <a href="http://www.brooklyncyclones.com/">Brooklyn Cyclones</a> in past years, my adventure seekers are all about the rides at <a href="https://lunaparknyc.com/">Luna Park</a> as soon as we've stepped off the Q train. The park is just off the boardwalk and filled with rides to fit everyone's interests, from the scared (<i>me</i>) to the "faster! higher!" crew (<i>everyone else in my family</i>).<br />
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Luna has a few new rides this year, among them <a href="https://lunaparknyc.com/rides/coney-clipper/">The Coney Clipper</a>, a giant rocking boat that didn't look nearly so scary until I was on it, and the <a href="https://lunaparknyc.com/rides/cozmo-jet/">Cozmo Jet</a>, which was much tamer by comparison. If you plan on riding multiple rides, and want the most for your money, I'd suggest buying a <a href="https://lunaparknyc.com/plan/luna-pass/">day pass</a>, which gets you unlimited rides. Don't forget that Luna Park's offerings also include the famous Cyclone roller coaster and the historic B&B Carousel amongst others. Open daily and on weekends and school holidays after Labor Day until October 31st, there's still time to have some fun at <a href="https://lunaparknyc.com/attractions/">Luna Park</a> before summer is over!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1luD5ZHLKQj942yZZO8w00fZrCF44KUO-ge8v5ZDbidFftNutYij-kp-LIVXt5wtZj3cQC0iIwtAYuu9plGQWV5iu8kteMawKJf4nt3RO8ogcSYuDEJQSVkmuNo_6wvfnzPH8V-GeALc/s1600/IMG_8323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8xhsQTip6r_AExp3CoXYnWe183Q1kNJOIzhdIZK3u7bPS96Uo1e3bq9Y7LN_FrrQFbEiuFfLtTpBKlALYHOoF9_rr9-_qYhsKfuqNerBDDQ5mvB2GVtrkZqP6wdB_JNWdGkxNH49fMc/s1600/IMG_6637.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8xhsQTip6r_AExp3CoXYnWe183Q1kNJOIzhdIZK3u7bPS96Uo1e3bq9Y7LN_FrrQFbEiuFfLtTpBKlALYHOoF9_rr9-_qYhsKfuqNerBDDQ5mvB2GVtrkZqP6wdB_JNWdGkxNH49fMc/s640/IMG_6637.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1luD5ZHLKQj942yZZO8w00fZrCF44KUO-ge8v5ZDbidFftNutYij-kp-LIVXt5wtZj3cQC0iIwtAYuu9plGQWV5iu8kteMawKJf4nt3RO8ogcSYuDEJQSVkmuNo_6wvfnzPH8V-GeALc/s1600/IMG_8323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM8KbRX_jnK_VKj1IAvNKzq4iKWfsO1SxEFRU-FxytxHWmmZV1qYdg0t6342ctUcaiCudyqJwrTJFeU9X7SLy7GprFUBCrZFO0G9UO7JLuTIg0XV5jDpRrWVGUQN4oPBQ2JcytpfKgDJ8/s1600/IMG_8237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1182" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM8KbRX_jnK_VKj1IAvNKzq4iKWfsO1SxEFRU-FxytxHWmmZV1qYdg0t6342ctUcaiCudyqJwrTJFeU9X7SLy7GprFUBCrZFO0G9UO7JLuTIg0XV5jDpRrWVGUQN4oPBQ2JcytpfKgDJ8/s640/IMG_8237.jpg" width="472" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_f6HwRUeRXQY1zpfguriRFLdbdonIXAca-WZxCKGcUMGWe-peOqVwN9oyPL51bjeWpCIUODAti-PoZqZ3r2u3w205yn4nmqB8FhlhtQXWtSL1Vz84zHkxLhBVQ217lJoork0RGaxhR7o/s1600/IMG_8296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_f6HwRUeRXQY1zpfguriRFLdbdonIXAca-WZxCKGcUMGWe-peOqVwN9oyPL51bjeWpCIUODAti-PoZqZ3r2u3w205yn4nmqB8FhlhtQXWtSL1Vz84zHkxLhBVQ217lJoork0RGaxhR7o/s640/IMG_8296.JPG" width="480" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKWl7zcQFfeoK-09QHpjEWOLmqqevvH-un0Pv_gLtV1EvNN_P0xU3CIt5Hq66fK686YPn_RverNKhBBmp0GRVFAZq9Z_DNXLqpyLN7S-DuRvgr2PqsjsZJoxwOBg2cxPKzQfVZ0nb1mGc/s1600/IMG_8317.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKWl7zcQFfeoK-09QHpjEWOLmqqevvH-un0Pv_gLtV1EvNN_P0xU3CIt5Hq66fK686YPn_RverNKhBBmp0GRVFAZq9Z_DNXLqpyLN7S-DuRvgr2PqsjsZJoxwOBg2cxPKzQfVZ0nb1mGc/s640/IMG_8317.jpg" width="480" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzBCh9A-ClzZIxous02SoRMLTe3g1y7oWkmDdoyTFDkezMcT8dCD3whSx3HRnsblpm8MDdYucXpLEiTRivtZ7XEmU3Pnw6-EnP3GuI8UCvQW5w20PZ6J3cZKTH_li-tpZLXgMhfqUu_w/s1600/IMG_8304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1170" data-original-width="1600" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzBCh9A-ClzZIxous02SoRMLTe3g1y7oWkmDdoyTFDkezMcT8dCD3whSx3HRnsblpm8MDdYucXpLEiTRivtZ7XEmU3Pnw6-EnP3GuI8UCvQW5w20PZ6J3cZKTH_li-tpZLXgMhfqUu_w/s640/IMG_8304.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Quick tip: we checked out a new place for lunch this year and loved it -- wide open space, decent food and clean bathrooms (hurrah!) -- definitely worth checking out: <a href="http://kitchen-21.com/">Kitchen 21</a>. Have fun!<br />
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Disclosure: I was provided with day passes to Luna Park for the purposes of this review. All opinions are my own.</div>
ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-54620288924330785142018-07-13T13:59:00.000-04:002018-07-13T13:59:32.410-04:00NYC Parenting: Finding the Right Preschool for Your Child<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This post is sponsored by <a href="http://www.kindercare.com/content-hub/articles/2018/june/finding-best-preschool?utm_campaign=KC_SOC&utm_source=Collectively&utm_medium=Blog&utm_content=SSG/">KinderCare</a>. </i><i>Thanks for supporting Baby Meets City!</i></div>
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Of all the challenges of NYC parenting (<i>and there are plenty to choose from</i>), deciding on your child's first preschool experience is near the top of the list. Not to start on a downer, as we all know there are countless benefits to raising a child in the city, but making that decision is a challenge. It just is.<br />
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Once you've come to grips with that realization, though, I'd suggest you quickly move on! Like anywhere, weighing the pros and cons of your options, based on where you live, school reputations, <a href="http://www.kindercare.com/about-us/who-we-are/accreditation">accreditation</a> and affordability will all come in to play (<i>we'll get into more of that in a moment</i>). In our particular situation, with both girls, we employed a nanny from the time they were 3 months old and I returned to work. When it was time for preschool, I connected with fellow moms in my neighborhood of northern Manhattan who had started a small Waldorf preschool. It was the right fit for us, a sweet half day program, and my nanny was able to pick them up after school and care for them until we returned home.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Searching for preschool options from atop the Empire State Building</td></tr>
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BUT - the process wasn't without its challenges. Millie actually started first in a home-based preschool, and I would have to leave her there screaming and crying each morning. It was terrible, and my feelings of "mom guilt" were almost unbearable. Luckily, we found our happy preschool ending, but I'm here to say, I speak about the struggle of finding the perfect fit for your child with experience.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciq5Cw9b_AxFXf7YOLNAcFLSKpjwCVQxYQRVVauU9gybe3BSEfE9h0H4UjpoLY04so7kKbgR1s1cTH_GjRyaQUD9N2JvyKAA6vvWnnlv9lFHCHPaUo_CPIPXOHzhYegcdzdRtxUiHAfc/s1600/IMG_7957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="640" height="634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciq5Cw9b_AxFXf7YOLNAcFLSKpjwCVQxYQRVVauU9gybe3BSEfE9h0H4UjpoLY04so7kKbgR1s1cTH_GjRyaQUD9N2JvyKAA6vvWnnlv9lFHCHPaUo_CPIPXOHzhYegcdzdRtxUiHAfc/s640/IMG_7957.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
As a result, I wanted to pass along a list of preschool thought points from <a href="http://www.kindercare.com/">KinderCare</a>, a new daycare and preschool option for NYC families. <a href="http://www.kindercare.com/content-hub/articles/2018/june/finding-best-preschool?utm_campaign=KC_SOC&utm_source=Collectively&utm_medium=Blog&utm_content=SSG/">Their suggestions</a> come from experience, having been in the business of early education and daycare for over 40 years. I wanted to share a few of my favorite suggestions from their list, and here's one I'm adding myself: <i><b>breathe, parents, breathe.</b></i><br />
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First, location, location, location. Do yourself a favor and pick a preschool that's within walking distance or easy commuting with your child. It's one thing to think about it on a gorgeous, sunny day -- but remember the LONG winter months ahead and the drudgery of snow and rain (<i>it's bad enough solo, but walking with a todder in that mess... agh!</i>)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJhHRmyyzC2LI-mxwr1swdWGxyJJoliNofYaeTqTnnaVU43polS7XsSVF7l9CtXk6jIWnYtlPzI5Au7n0EXablYWGfpw39SL6fXAmMFgrRCFSZ0HkHXCBIpJyw3P5i_eNCTKDc7XgKIKQ/s1600/IMG_7953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="640" height="626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJhHRmyyzC2LI-mxwr1swdWGxyJJoliNofYaeTqTnnaVU43polS7XsSVF7l9CtXk6jIWnYtlPzI5Au7n0EXablYWGfpw39SL6fXAmMFgrRCFSZ0HkHXCBIpJyw3P5i_eNCTKDc7XgKIKQ/s640/IMG_7953.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Also, when you go out on preschool tours, look out for the basics -- cleanliness, safety measures, the school's nutrition program. Is the school <a href="https://families.naeyc.org/find-quality-child-care">accredited</a>? Equally important, look for what you can't find in a brochure -- the heart and passion of the school's instructors when you talk to them. I wish I had spent a little more time on this last part in that nightmare experience I mentioned in the beginning.<br />
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I love that <a href="http://www.kindercare.com/content-hub/articles/2018/june/finding-best-preschool?utm_campaign=KC_SOC&utm_source=Collectively&utm_medium=Blog&utm_content=SSG/">KinderCare</a> encourages parents to go beyond the brochure when looking at preschools, welcomes questions and implores families to think about what's most important to them in finding an enriching experience for a child's first introduction to school. This journey of parenthood won't always be perfect or Instagram-worthy; it's by turns bumpy and stressful, tiring and hilarious, but <a href="http://www.kindercare.com/our-centers/new-york/ny">KinderCare</a> aims to make the crucial step of finding the right preschool for your child as smooth as possible. And for that, we can all breathe a sigh of relief.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyiKLPl1JBLrB_IDhbQhsIE2nM5vU2QOYFRqAO_uPvWBnq3nI3lIxNMm80rFHHnllaUo2z0aa6Z5c4CMFUd8hsD4or0XSc5HITbQ1tGbYOneVdLunb31h7g6dvLvma1Z6gNvl2Ey9Cut8/s1600/IMG_7954+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="640" height="636" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyiKLPl1JBLrB_IDhbQhsIE2nM5vU2QOYFRqAO_uPvWBnq3nI3lIxNMm80rFHHnllaUo2z0aa6Z5c4CMFUd8hsD4or0XSc5HITbQ1tGbYOneVdLunb31h7g6dvLvma1Z6gNvl2Ey9Cut8/s640/IMG_7954+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Good luck in your preschool search! If you choose to include <a href="http://www.kindercare.com/content-hub/articles/2018/june/finding-best-preschool?utm_campaign=KC_SOC&utm_source=Collectively&utm_medium=Blog&utm_content=SSG/">KinderCare</a> in your preschool search, click <a href="http://www.kindercare.com/our-centers/new-york/ny">HERE</a> for a list of their locations in NYC.ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-57202984557662255842018-06-25T12:59:00.000-04:002018-06-25T12:59:00.820-04:00Thinking Ahead... A Back-to-School Preview with Justice <div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx on behalf of <a href="https://www.shopjustice.com/?cid=soc-babblebox">Justice</a></i></div>
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So, I fully realize we just got OUT of school for summer, and no one really wants to be thinking about back-to-school at this point in time. But bear with me for a moment, as this post is two-fold. With an almost 9 year old in the house, sufficed to say, ideas about fashion and what to wear are changing. While Millie is still pretty open to my suggestions, she's begun to have more of an opinion on what styles and colors she likes and what feels comfortable to her. As right she should... <i>I just have to get used to it</i>.<br />
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Enter <a href="https://www.shopjustice.com/?cid=soc-babblebox">Justice</a>, a brand that specializes in tapping in to everything tween girls love -- color, comfort, cool sayings and yes, sequins and sparkle. Honestly just looking at the website gets me in to the mood for summer fun. Example A: my little dog lover is obsessed with this silly t-shirt from their <a href="https://www.shopjustice.com/pool-pug-graphic-tee/prd-3962867#color/699">tops for girls</a> section:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLEtO-f9ieU9Lf63sksc0tcJR4G_iXo3KogiyPrQtL8uHuNjtjO78J10mwqFVwyFXs5i7h6Op2toHF7w4wuCS_GExVhTTrizZKzbJNuQ2VcGN9O81aGIBrnTXpxvZdA30ZgaQvBY36SM/s1600/IMG_7398.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLEtO-f9ieU9Lf63sksc0tcJR4G_iXo3KogiyPrQtL8uHuNjtjO78J10mwqFVwyFXs5i7h6Op2toHF7w4wuCS_GExVhTTrizZKzbJNuQ2VcGN9O81aGIBrnTXpxvZdA30ZgaQvBY36SM/s640/IMG_7398.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And while it's a destination for girls looking for all of the above, parents can't argue with the affordable prices, especially considering how lightening fast our kids are growing. But back-to-school talk for a hot second. I had no idea <a href="https://www.shopjustice.com/?cid=soc-babblebox">Justice</a> also has a line of <a href="https://www.shopjustice.com/shoes-accessories/bags/backpacks-lunch-totes/P-10494">girls backpacks</a> & school accessories, too! Love this <a href="https://www.shopjustice.com/fearless-shaky-pencil-case/prd-5696324?ref_page=search&#color/619">"fearless"</a> motto, as well as the ability to personalize accessories:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWx8wcXAjbm2mkEygavl0c-Q5dAa1xXaWHsSSY_POxwwP99P-1K3pPDCeNRi5GSp8ZCjRLIgMYnpumiau4H-2TdWgaaztiqDnBQFCEQsYKfRSm6eOBGxg7YvTR7rHc_HnamsiB3sVQ9rA/s1600/IMG_7375.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1134" data-original-width="1600" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWx8wcXAjbm2mkEygavl0c-Q5dAa1xXaWHsSSY_POxwwP99P-1K3pPDCeNRi5GSp8ZCjRLIgMYnpumiau4H-2TdWgaaztiqDnBQFCEQsYKfRSm6eOBGxg7YvTR7rHc_HnamsiB3sVQ9rA/s640/IMG_7375.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We're both loving these choices, and of course, the shimmery flip sequins of this back pack, lunch box and change purse, which are <b>ALL THE RAGE</b> these days. But aside from style, <a href="https://www.shopjustice.com/?cid=soc-babblebox">Justice</a> backpacks have padded straps, plenty of pockets (side pockets are great for storing a water bottle), loads of room inside and the ability to match it all up with a lunch tote and accessories. That pom pom is pretty cute, too!<br />
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Keep <a href="https://www.shopjustice.com/?cid=soc-babblebox">Justice</a> in mind for your tween (<i>remember you can keep it <a href="https://www.shopjustice.com/new-arrivals/the-basics/P-11246">classic</a> there, too!</i>) and when back-to-school shopping is on the horizon, you'll know just where to go. In the meantime, HAPPY SUMMER!<br />
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Disclosure: As noted above, this is a sponsored post on behalf of Justice through BabbleBoxx. All opinions are my own. </div>
ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-72539307880848247902018-06-05T13:51:00.002-04:002018-06-05T13:51:26.103-04:00A Memorial Day Weekend Getaway to Washington, D.C.Somewhat impulsively (<i>or as impulsive as you can be with a couple kids in tow</i>), we made a quick trip down to Washington, D.C. over Memorial Day weekend. This beautiful city, steeped in history and national pride, is a fun-filled and educational destination for families. Our goal for the weekend was ambitious: visit a few of the city's historic sites, a museum or two, <a href="https://nationalzoo.si.edu/">the zoo</a>, and oh yeah, maybe relax a little bit. Luckily we were able to achieve that last part in spades, thanks to our stay at <a href="https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/washington-dc-shoreham?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIy4HQwK262wIVCB-GCh1VvAoIEAAYASAAEgIiy_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds">The Omni Shoreham Hotel</a>. This luxurious hotel made us feel at home and comfortable almost immediately, and frankly, kind of hard to leave once we arrived!<br />
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First, a few words on why <a href="https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/washington-dc-shoreham?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIy4HQwK262wIVCB-GCh1VvAoIEAAYASAAEgIiy_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds">The Omni Shoreham</a> is a great space for families visiting the DC area:<br />
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<b><i>Location. </i></b>The hotel is within easy walking distance of the <a href="https://nationalzoo.si.edu/">Smithsonian's National Zoo</a>, which is a must-do for any animal lover. We arrived mid-afternoon and headed straight for the panda exhibit (got to see them munching on bamboo... too cute). We also saw an Asian elephant, cheetah, crocodile & more snakes than I care to remember. My personal favorite was the gorilla habitat. So many adorable animals! And admission is free, too, by the way.<br />
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<b><i>And speaking of location</i>,</b> because The Omni Shoreham is situated away from the main part of town in leafy <a href="https://washington.org/dc-neighborhoods/woodley-park">Woodley Park</a>, it felt like we had sort of gotten away from it all when we returned each day. The hotel grounds back up to Rock Creek Park, so the pool area and hotel "back yard" are very quiet. At the same time, you're not far from the heart of the city - a metro stop is one block away (<i>though for this quick trip, we took <a href="https://www.lyft.com/">Lyft</a> everywhere and nothing was more than a 10 minute drive</i>). Hurrah!<br />
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<b><i>Second, <a href="https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/washington-dc-shoreham/property-details/omni-kids">Omni Kids</a>! </i></b>The hotel is very welcoming to kids and families, and their Omni Kids program is an excellent example. Upon check-in, kids receive a backpack filled with fun items designed specifically for them (<i>our contents included a coloring book & crayons, game and a cool pair of binoculars</i>). Kids also receive milk and cookies to their guest room on the first night. Naturally, my girls loved them! And if you dine at <a href="https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/washington-dc-shoreham/dining/roberts-restaurant">Robert's Restaurant</a> in the hotel, they'll bring you a coloring menu and crayons-- always a benefit when eating out with kids.<br />
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<b><i>Third, and I think this goes without saying, the <a href="https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/washington-dc-shoreham/wellness/pool">POOL</a>!</i></b> The pool area itself is huge and we loved having access to the snack bar and wait service (<i>I highly recommend the Mango Mule, for the record</i>). While the girls and Husband swam, I made use of the hot tub. So relaxing! Wish I'd had a chance to check out their spa and gym, but there just weren't enough hours in the day.<br />
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Much like NYC, Washington, D.C. is a city you can keep coming back to, seeing something new on every visit. There are SO many world-class museums (<i>many of them free, thanks to the <a href="https://www.si.edu/museums">Smithsonian</a></i>) and monuments, tours, parks and restaurants. On our main day, we visited the Lincoln Memorial, walked along the Mall and past the National Monument, then all the way down to the <a href="https://www.si.edu/museums/air-and-space-museum">Air & Space Museum</a>. After lunch at the <a href="https://www.si.edu/museums/american-indian-museum">American Indian Museum</a>, we walked over to the <a href="https://www.si.edu/museums/portrait-gallery">National Portrait Gallery</a>. I think we walked almost 3 miles that day! And still, only the tip of the iceberg.<br />
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We'll be back, DC. You're a bit of a treasure. You, too, <a href="https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/washington-dc-shoreham">Omni Shoreham</a> (<i>I'm ending with a few more pics because clearly, I wish I was back on vacation</i>)!</div>
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Disclosure: I was provided with two nights lodging in exchange for promotion and this review. All opinions herein are my own.</div>
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ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-15876490254021345012018-05-26T23:01:00.001-04:002018-05-26T23:01:52.232-04:00Summer Comfort and Style in prAnaAs the temperature finally rises here in the northeast, my goal is to try and maintain a little style and uniqueness in my clothing, combined with comfort -- always comfort. And if such threads won't cause me to sweat profusely, that's a plus, too (<i>just keeping things honest</i>)! <a href="https://www.prana.com/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI8-H547GX2wIVhh-GCh3ypAn7EAAYASAAEgKS_fD_BwE">prAna</a> is one of those brands that consistently fits the bill. Their clothes are airy and light, with beautiful detailing in just the right places and <a href="https://www.prana.com/about-us/sustainability.html">ethically made</a>, which is a major plus.<br />
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Excited to share a couple prAna shirts that I'll be wearing throughout the summer while here in the city, and on vacation (we're headed out west!) in August. Want to pick up some for yourself? Use code <b>TRBMS18</b> for 15% off when you shop online.<br />
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Here's to finding some adventure this summer, whether it's in your travels or just around the corner at home. I ran across this medieval-looking turret in Morningside Park last weekend -- so beautiful! Love finding hidden gems where you least expect them. Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!<br />
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Disclosure: Product was supplied by prAna for the purposes of this review. All opinions are my own.ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3330399765807356374.post-59213920370315999332018-04-17T11:09:00.003-04:002018-04-17T14:06:40.360-04:00Pizza-Making 101 at Rossopomodoro in the West VillageAsk any kid their top 5 favorite foods, and pizza will undoubtedly be at the top of the list-- let's face it, pizza is practically its own food group at our house. So, when we got an invite to <a href="http://www.rossonyc.com/">Rossopomodoro</a> for a children's pizza-making lesson, the answer was an obvious no-brainer.<br />
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This <a href="http://www.rossonyc.com/locations/">West Village</a> neighborhood favorite serves up classic Neapolitan cuisine in a warm & inviting atmosphere. The space allocated for children's pizza classes is semi-private, sunlit, and perfectly situated right next to their shiny gold brick oven.<br />
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The girls were given a chef's hat, apron and rolling pin when we arrived, and they got to work rolling out their dough under the supervision of Achille Confuorto, a GM Partner at the restaurant who also teaches adults how to make pizza at their location inside <a href="https://www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/nyc-flatiron/nyc-la-pizza-la-pasta/">Eatily</a>. As you can see from the pics below, it was a really fun and well-run class, and most importantly, the pizza was DELISH! Classes begin this weekend (for $27, your child will receive the aforementioned chef's hat, apron, rolling pin as well as their pizza masterpiece after it comes out of the oven). <b>Call <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">212.242.2310 to reserve your child's spot!</span></span></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.rossonyc.com/">Rossopomodoro</a> will also begin using this space soon for birthday parties -- such a fun way to celebrate! Side note: had a look at their $10 children's menu, too, and will be adding it to my list of kid-friendly restaurants.<br />
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Disclosure: While this class was complimentary, all opinions herein are my own.ellenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03709070720955266033noreply@blogger.com0