Tips for Travel with Children

January 4, 2016 by 1 Comment

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I frequently travel, and since becoming a mother, it hasn’t stopped me. Travel with children can be a little difficult. It can be a little stressful. It doesn’t have to be though! They may be, slightly out of their normal routine, but it doesn’t have to mean a bad experience for you. Here are some tips to make travel with children a little easier.

Time

Take your time. Whether that is getting to the airport, making a connection or getting to a hotel. There is no rush. Just plan ahead and make sure you allow a lot of time. I have found that kids love the airport. They get to have a walk, see the airplanes and eat snacks. So allow yourself plenty of time to enjoy it as much as you can. I think if you are feeling stressed, your kids notice.

Plan

This might sound like an obvious one, but it is so important. From the method of travel to the hotel, it all needs to be planned. You don’t want to turn up to the hotel to find that is isn’t family friendly or doesn’t have any travel cribs. Read the fine print when booking a hotel, and opt for family friendly hotels like Hotwire hotels. Then you won’t be faced with any unexpected surprises.

The other important things to plan are what you will do at your destination and how you will travel. If it is just adults you can just hire a car and it isn’t a problem. With children, there is the extra foreplanning for things like car seats. Will you take your own? Does your airline allow you to take them without a charge? How much are they to rent? These are all important questions to think about.

Every destination will have something for the family to do. Do your research ahead of time to find out what the best spots are. Some attractions may need to be booked in advance. You don’t want to find that you have to wait in a long line with tired children!

Pack Light

Well, with kids, as light as you possibly can. They don’t need to bring all their favourite toys. One or two would be plenty. This is when technology comes in handy too. If you have a smartphone or tablet, can you use that to entertain them on the plane or car journeys? You will most likely be taking it anyway, and it will keep them occupied for a length of time for sure.

The other thing to do with the things you are taking is check the climate of the destination. If it is a varied climate, it is trickier. If you know it will be cold, pack accordingly. Likewise for warmth. When you book your hotel or villa, it is worth checking if there is a laundry service or a washing machine available. This will mean you won’t have to pack something for each day. Do a little laundry and you will be able to pack rather light.
Good luck on your travels! It doesn’t need to be a daunting prospect. Relax, deep breaths and enjoy!

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Get Your Loved Ones a Membership to the Newark Museum

December 6, 2015 by 5 Comments

NJ Museum

Founded in 1909 as an institution of art, science and industry by famed museologist John Cotton Dana, the Newark Museum is New Jersey’s largest museum, and one of the most influential museums in the United States. Bringing together art and science, the Museum allows for an educational and inspirational journey through 80 galleries of world-class collections including American, Asian, African and Classical. The Museum boasts the largest collection of Tibetan art in the Western hemisphere, the 1885 National Register Ballantine House, and one of the leading collections of American Modernism in the country.

The Museum complex also includes the Victoria Hall of Science, the Alice and Leonard Dreyfuss Planetarium, the Junior Museum, the Billy Johnson Auditorium, the Alice Ransom Dreyfuss Memorial Garden, an authentic Schoolhouse from 1784, and the Newark Fire Museum.

The Newark Museum’s distinguished art collections are international in scope and importance, and include 18th- to 20th-century American Painting and Sculpture; an important collection of Decorative Arts including the nation’s most acclaimed collection of pots; the Arts of Global Africa; a world-renowned Asian Art collection; Classical Antiquities, representing Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan and Roman societies and an unparalleled collection of ancient glass. The Museum’s holdings in the Natural Sciences include a far ranging 75,000-specimen collection.

The Newark Museum is a nationally recognized leader in arts education, with one of the most impressive museum education programs in the country. Offerings include lectures, gallery talks, group and public tours, classes and arts workshops for adults and children. Most drop-in art and science programs are free.

PURCHASE A GIFT MEMBERSHIP TODAY!

Visit our website at www.newarkmuseum.org or contact Membership Department at 973.596.6686 or lbyrd@newarkmuseum.org

Filed Under: Holiday Gift Guide, Holiday Gift Guide 2015, holidays, lifestyle Tagged With: ,

Win Tickets to Nickelodeon’s Dora and Diego at Liberty Science Center

November 24, 2015 by 5 Comments

The Liberty Science Center is a great place to spend the day with your children, and with its constantly changing exhibits, it is always worth the visit.  It is located on the Hudson near the statue of Liberty st Liberty State Park.

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One of their newest exhibits stars Nickelodeon’s famous Dora and Diego, as well as a whole plethora of their friends.  The exhibit is called Dora and Diego- Let’s Explore and is geared toward fans of the hit shows Dora the Explorer and Go, Diego, Go!

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In the exhibit, kids will explore various settings from the show including the purple planet, Isa’s Flowery Garden and Tico’s Tree and Car.  Each is a fun place to explore, teaching kids using hands on methods about a topics from the constellations to plants and animals. Many topics are touched upon and will get your little ones asking questions, a bit more curious about the world around them.  There is even an opportunity for your little ones to board a rocket ship and dress up as astronauts, pilot the ship, and test their memory.  For the buccaneers in your crew, there is even a pirate ship manned (or rather pigged) by the Pirate Piggies crew.  Kids can to dress as pirates, dig through treasure, and share the coins among the piggies’ banks.

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Of the exhibits, one of the biggest is the Rainforest Maze, which lets kids explore the rainforest looking for animals while swinging across the Bobo Brothers’ monkey bars, crawling through a fallen tree, climbing across Jaguar Mountain and jumping across the River Rocks.

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The Dora and Diego – Let’s Explore exhibit is open now through January 24, 2016 at Liberty Science Center and is presented by the WellPoint Foundation and Bank of America.  Liberty Science Center is a great way to spend a day during the Winter break to keep your kids active and learning for hours on end.

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One of you can win 4 tickets to the Liberty Science Center- just leave your name and email address in a comment below if you’d like to win.  Ends Dec. 18, 2015. Thanks!

Filed Under: giveaway, kids, lifestyle Tagged With: , ,

Learn With Oliver- Language Learning Online

November 10, 2015 by 5 Comments

Languages go hand in hand with traveling. Whether you are visiting another country, or just an area outside of your own town, you never know who you are going to meet and what language they are going to speak. Learning a different language helps you to broaden your horizons.  With the world getting smaller and more diverse, it’s really becoming essential that everyone know at least a second language.

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There are a lot of ways to learn a new language, but many are time consuming and costly. If you are like me, you don’t have time to go to classes and want a way to learn online.

Learn with Oliver might be a perfect solution. Learn with Oliver is an online language learning site. They currently offer Chinese, Danish, Dutch, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, and Thai.

They also offer a way for people to learn English. For people who are looking to learn English but currently speak Chinese, German, Korean, Russian, French, or Portuguese, Learn with Oliver is an online option as well.

What makes Learn with Oliver a great option is that there are 2 memberships. The basic membership is free forever. That means you get to work on learning a new language without having to worry about an outrageous cost. There is also a premium membership that gives you added features that can make learning a language easier and faster. At only $8 a month or $84 for the year, you get the ability to add notes to your flash cards, enter your own words and sentences, use a sound feature, and get fast essay correction.

If you don’t know a second language, now is the time. A cool new “thing” will only last so long, and it’s appeal even less long.  You know how it is.  But, a second language is forever, and is a great skill for your resume, college application, and makes you more employable.  It also opens up a world to you that was previously closed.  Go ahead and see what you think- there is nothing to lose.  Visit Learn With Oliver and see what you think.

Filed Under: education, evergreen, lifestyle Tagged With: ,

#ExploreMore with the 2016 Ford Explorer

October 6, 2015 by 11 Comments

Just recently, I had the opportunity to drive from Montana to Wyoming in the new 2016 Ford Explorer. It was a beautiful car, with plenty of room and a smooth ride.  We had a pleasant trip through some very scenic states and areas, and had so much fun getting to take this auto on quite the test drive.

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Taking a little break to enjoy the scenery.

The new Ford Explorer has lots of updates and improvements, but the most noticeable thing about the new Explorer is its ease to drive and fun to get behind the wheel.  From an ecologically minded engine, to many places to plug in your devices and music players, to all the “extras”, there is so much that will make you fall in love with the Ford Explorer.

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The road trip begins! We all get into an Explorer and go exploring. Fairly apt, don’t you think?

The vehicle itself sports new lift gate, new tail lamps, new fascia and new exhaust tips,Redesigned hood, headlamps, grille, fender and fog lamps,Five all-new wheel designs and three new colors, Unique interior and exterior and premium appointments on the new Platinum series,Nirvana Leather with perforated and quilted seats on Platinum model.

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Plenty of room for 3 people’s bags and computers with lots of spcace to spare.

The engine is a 280 hp beats which delivers 310 lbs of torque using its twin turbochargers which give the engine faster pickup and enhances acceleration.

The hands free parking is a thing of wonder.  It helps keep the guess work out of weather you are in the spot or not. The Explorer uses its available ultrasonic systems to help you in nearly all parking situations – park out assist, perpendicular parking, and Forward and Side Sensing Systems.  While the car is large, you wont’ feel like you are parking a boat.  It is also really nice to be able to see behind you easily via screen while you are backing up.

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The navigation system was super easy to use, and very accurate. It was even great when we had to take a route we didn’t know, after a road was closed and no “alternate route” was posted at all. No problem!

Available enhanced active park assist adds the ability for Explorer to help you with perpendicular parking. Utilizing the vehicle’s 12 ultrasonic sensors, Explorer will scan for suitable parking spaces and will assist in backing the vehicle into the spot. All you have to do is shift, accelerate and brake, and active park assist will take care of the steering.

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 The audio/phone system is also neat its call SYNC and lets you listen to music make a phone call and use voice controls to select apps and tons more.  Including:Hands-Free Calling, Automatic Phone Book Download, Music Search and Control, SYNC® AppLinkTM and No-Extra-Charge 911 Assist.
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Gone Exploring…..So much to see! How beautiful is this scenery?

 

The radio was fun, and had SO MANY options.  It took a hot minute for this not-so-techy chick to figure it out, but it wasn’t too long.  It was fun to explore the stations- there were so many to choose from, which is perfect for a road trip.
The whole “road trip” experience was really enhanced in the Explorer- the seats were comfortable (and had warming options), you could all choose your ideal temperature so no one has to have the heat or AC blasting at you if you are chilly but your partner is not, and there were cup holders galore.  Anyone who has ever taken a family roadtrip can tell you that those are so very necessary, and there are never enough.  Guess what?  There totally were- and there were spots for your keys, sunglasses, and more to be held, too.  Nothing not to love- I was a little too excited about this aspect.  But you know what?  It’s the little things that matter most when it comes to comfort, and I can tell you that I was comfortable the entire time.
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Overall the new Ford Explorer is a blast to drive no matter your expertise or comfort level and will be a favorite for everyone in your household.
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Filed Under: lifestyle Tagged With: , ,

EVER AFTER at Paper Mill Playhouse

May 22, 2015 by 1 Comment

My son and I had the opportunity to see Paper Mill Playhouse’s Ever After, and we both enjoyed it. My son, surprisingly, liked it more then I did, and talked about it for days. Based on the fable “Cinderella”, but from the perspective that this wasn’t any damsel in distress waiting for some guy to come save her, this show is fun, funny, and great for families to see.

A bit silly at times (there is a song and dance where Danielle, aka Cinderella is thought to be the Gypsy queen from heaven and the prince is her goat companion in human form) it is all in good fun, and my son really enjoyed it.  Another fun addition was Leonardo da Vinci, who has a ball thrown in his honor, is a good friend of the Prince’s after a harrowing event at the beginning of the story, and steps in to save the day more then once.

This is a great show for kids of all ages, and a great one for the whole family.  Booster seats are located in the rear of the theater for smaller kids should you need them.  Ever After is a fun twist on a classic, something different for your children then the Disney damsels, and pays homage to a woman who knows how to take care of business.  Grab your tickets sooner rather then later for this entertaining show!

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Paper Mill Playhouse (Mark S. Hoebee-Producing Artistic Director, Todd Schmidt-Managing Director) is proud to announce complete casting for the world-premiere musical Ever After, directed and choreographed by three-time Tony Award® winner Kathleen Marshall (Anything Goes, Nice Work If You Can Get It), featuring a book and lyrics by Marcy Heisler and music by Zina Goldrich.

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Paper Mill Playhouse presents the world premiere of a new musical based on the 1998 film starring Drew Barrymore and Anjelica Huston.  This is no fairy tale.  Ever After sets the record straight on the fable of Cinderella. Her name was Danielle and it was always about her wit, her smarts, her strength and her good friend Leonardo da Vinci.  She makes her own dreams come true. Warm and romantic, funny and smart, this is the musical you’ve been waiting for.

“We’re thrilled to present the world premiere of this beautiful musical,” commented Mark S. Hoebee, Producing Artistic Director for the Millburn theater. “I am delighted to showcase a new musical with strong, female leads, created by strong, female artists including Kathleen Marshall, Marcy Heisler and Zina Goldrich.”

The award-winning design team of Broadway veterans will feature Derek McLane (scenic design), Jess Goldstein (costume design), Peter Kaczorowski (lighting design), Nevin Steinberg (sound design), Mary-Mitchell Campbell (music supervision), David Gardos (music direction), Leah Loukas (hair and wig design), Rick Sordelet (fight direction) and casting by Telsey + Company.

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Ever After begins performances Thursday, May 21, 2015, and runs through Sunday, June 21, 2015.

Ever After will be performed at Paper Mill Playhouse eight times a week, Wednesday through Sunday. Performance schedule: Wednesday at 7:00pm, Thursday at 1:30pm and 7:00pm, Friday at 7:00pm, Saturday at 1:30pm and 7:00pm and Sunday at 1:30pm and 7:00pm. Tickets are on sale now and range from $28 to $99. Tickets may be purchased by calling 973.376.4343, at the Paper Mill Playhouse Box Office at 22 Brookside Drive in Millburn, or online at www.PaperMill.org. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express accepted. Groups of 10 or more can receive up to a 40% discount on tickets and should call 973.315.1680.  College students can order $20 rush tickets over the phone or in person at the Paper Mill Playhouse Box Office on the day of the performance.

Filed Under: lifestyle, theater

Is Your Health Safe When You Travel?

May 18, 2015 by 1 Comment

Traveling the world can be a wonderful experience. You get to take in new sights, see a ton of history, embed yourself in other cultures, and create lifelong memories. However, while the experience may be fun, traveling to other countries also puts you at risk.

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Not only do you run the risk of getting lost or being taken advantage of in other countries due to your lack of direction and/or inability to speak the language, but you are also exposed to illness and disease that you may not be exposed to back home in the US.

Getting sick in another country is not always ideal. Not only do the doctors likely not have access to your medical records, which could put you at risk if you have an underlying medical condition or allergy to medication they aren’t aware of, but you may not get the best possible treatment either. In order to ensure your safety while traveling to another country, use the following tips.

Get vaccinated.

Different countries have different illnesses and diseases, and in order to travel to certain countries, you may be required to get certain vaccinations. Before you go, check and see what vaccinations you need to travel out of the country, and then set up an appointment with your doctor to get vaccinated. Keep in mind that some vaccinations may require multiple doses, so this isn’t something you can put off until the last minute. Plus, you’ll also need proof that you were vaccinated in order to board the plane, so be sure you keep all records and documentation on hand. Getting these shots done will help eliminate your risk of catching a disease while you’re traveling, which will help to keep you safe.

Research doctors/hospitals.
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How to Get the Most Out of Domestic Travel

May 6, 2015 by 1 Comment

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When most people say they want to travel, they imagine traversing the globe for vastly different cultures and scenery of foreign countries. However, many travelers simply don’t realize the wealth of amazing travel opportunities available right here in the United States.

A vast and diverse landscape, America offers as many new experiences as international travel — at less than half the price. For outstanding and unforgettable travel, you don’t need a passport or a massive savings account. Here’s how you can get the most out of your U.S.-based travels.

Find Uncommon Destinations

Some people are turned off by the idea of domestic travel simply because they don’t anticipate a trip to Boise, Idaho or Des Moines, Iowa to be especially thrilling. Yet, a vacation is only as exciting as you make it; if you select a dull destination and maintain a sour attitude, you probably will have an unhappy vacation. The United States is hiding thousands of exciting places to visit, so as long as you do some research and chart a course for some fascinating spots, you undoubtedly will have an excellent time. To get you started, here are some suggestions for domestic destinations you likely never considered:

  • Antelope Canyon, Arizona. A slot canyon made of vibrant red sandstone carved into surreal shapes.
  • Grand Prismatic Spring, Wyoming. The largest hot spring in North America, surrounded by a rainbow of colors from bright reds and yellows to crystalline blue.
  • Niagara Falls, New York and Ontario. The largest waterfall in the world, and a natural destination for couples in love.
  • Whitaker Point, Arkansas. A single stone crag jutting out over 100 feet of empty space, offering unprecedented views of the stunning Buffalo River country.
  • Hamilton Pool, Texas. A giant natural pool surrounded on all sides by steep grotto walls, formed when the hollow dome of an underground river collapsed.

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