Wildwood Days are Near

April 15, 2014 by 10 Comments

One of the best spots to visit for spring and summer fun are the Wildwoods in NJ.  Morey’s and Mariners Piers and Beachfront Waterparks are fun for everyone, with rides, games, attractions, and of course the famous boardwalk food.  As a Jersey Girl, all my summers have been spent “down the shore” (you wanna visit here, you say it right!) from birth right on up to the present.  My little guy is getting to know Wildwood as well- his memories will be different then mine, but certain things stay the same (like the miles of sandy beaches and ocean with gentle, easy to wade into water).

WildWood 070If you are looking for a place to stay that is close to both the boardwalk and the beach, check out the Blue Palm Resort.  It is right on the boardwalk, and if you walk across the planks, there is the beach.  Talk about convince.  There are about a million places to eat within walking distance as well. It has several sizes of rooms, some with balconies, and a few different pool options.  Life vests are available, and you can borrow bikes right from the main lobby as well.  They also offer special rates like the “Play & Stay” Passes exclusively to guests. There are two Play & Stay Pass options to choose from- splash and ride all you want for one day or for the entire length of your stay for a great value.

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WildWood 211Morey’s Piers are a total of 3 piers, packed with over 100 rides and attractions including 2 water parks and a wide array of restaurants and concessions, games of chance and games of skill (bring your dollars if you want to win that giant stuffed animal). Check out the giant Ferris Wheel ride or Seagull Cycle, and work your way up to the Sea Serpent coaster (only found in Wildwood!)  My sweet boy also loves the flying elephant and smaller carousel ride on the furthest pier- they have a dragon sea serpent “horse” he likes to ride on.  Much cooler then the traditional pony- just ask him!  It has a plethora of other creatures as well, but he likes the dragon best.

WildWood 120Eventually, you will get hungry. There are more places to eat at then you can shake your fist at- some of my favorites are the Hot Spot, Curly’s Fries,  Jumbo’s, and of course Kohr Brothers custard for dessert. Jumbo’s specializes in fresh seafood, steaks, pizza, and the famous Chef Willy’s Cuban spiced fries, and you can eat either in their indoor dining room or outdoor dining area.  If you don’t like custard, there is always Polish Water Ice- there are more stands for this then maybe anything else.  There is always the all important corn dog and fresh squeezed lemonade available pretty much up and down the boardwalk, too.  Choose wisely!

WildWood 080Splash Zone is a water park that has some all new elements added to it last year.  With it’s classic white water rapids “The Beast of The East”, many slides and tube rides, lazy river, and of course the famous Splash Zone Bucket that will drench you and your family with thousands of gallons of water, comes the new interactive Close Encounters slide – featuring music, videos and a light show.  Very small children will love the Zoe Zone, featuring a shallow pool, fountains, and soft play equipment.  Make sure you stop by Wildwood’s #1 Water Park, Splash Zone.  Follow them on Twitter at @SplashZoneNJ
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Seven Family-fun Things to Do in Southern California

April 11, 2014 by Leave a Comment

Southern California boasts diverse landscapes with plenty of activities to keep even finicky children entertained. From theme parks to museums and wildlife, Southern California has things to do for kids of all ages- even when you decide to skip Disneyland! These are some of the best activities for kids in Southern California.

pic9Legoland

Legoland in Carlsbad, Calif., offers thrilling rides, a waterpark, and an aquarium all within one park. The toys that children adore come to life in this adventure park. More than sixty rides and shows keep kids entertained throughout the day. Visitors that stay on the resort at the Legoland hotel can take advantage of special deals for the park and enjoy kids’ favorite foods in one of the many hotel dining options.

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo in San Diego, Calif., is one of the best places for children in Southern California. The zoo houses hundreds of animals with interactive exhibits to give children an up-close view of wildlife. Children can see a range of animals and insects, such as lions, polar bears, komodo dragons, meerkats, and much more. Families can even take a trip on the Skyfari, a cabled lift, to see the animals from a bird’s-eye view.

California Science Center

The California Science Center in Los Angeles, Calif., is an interactive science museum that is sure to peak any child’s interest with over 100 exhibits, including a tour of the Endeavor Space Shuttle. Children learn about the world around them and themselves through exhibits, 4D shows, and live entertainment. As a bonus for parents, access to most of the exhibits is free.
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Got Cabin Fever? Indulge it.

April 3, 2014 by 9 Comments

 

Winter this year has been (for much of the country) a very long, bitter, and brutal one.  Many of us are suffering from cabin fever, and can’t get out- or don’t want to.  I say, go with it.  An extended and frigid winter is no reason you have to stay cooped up in your own house, even if you are not a skier, skater, or if you left your dog sled in your other garage.  So what to do?  Head to Ohio.

Yes, Ohio.  Ohio doesn’t often get the respect it deserves.  Besides being the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and of Fannie May chocolates (and yes, you can go on a factory tour with samples to be had), it’s also the home to more number one children’s museums, zoos, and centers as a whole then any other state.  Take that, Florida!

HH5

So- head to Ohio.  There is this hidden gem called Hocking Hills, known as a “Scenic Wonderland” where there are 9 state parks and forests.  Steeped in Native American History,the clear abundance of natural resources and water encouraged pioneers to settle in the area in the 1790’s.  It’s still wild looking- wildlife that you can spot includes “deer, barred owls, ruffed grouse and an occasional bobcat”  as well as wild turkey (according to the Southeast Ohio Tourism Department).  Along with the natural hiking trails of differing lengths and levels of difficulty, many of which are marked off or able to be found on maps in visitors centers, are more then 15 natural waterfalls, some of which are seasonal.  The largest and most often flowing tend to be Cedar Falls and the Upper and Lower Falls at Old Man’s Cave.  You can walk a scenic 2 mile trail between them if you choose.
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Head To Virginia Beach

March 25, 2014 by 13 Comments

VA beachWhen I hear Virginia, automatically I think of Virginia Beach. In fact, every time it snows or a bitter wind blows, my mind will wander to a warmer place. Memories of family fun on the beach warm my heart for a moment, but I am left wanting more; to make more memories, to experience more ocean side adventures, to take in more of the sights and sounds of Virginia Beach.

My family loves to attend festivals. We like to browse the merchandise for sale, take in the displays and demonstrations and of course sample all of the food! Virginia Beach is the perfect spot for my family because the city hosts more than 25 festivals to appeal to people of all interests. (There is a Beer Festival, a Neptune Festival and a Kite festival to name a few.)
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My family has visited Virginia Beach several times. When we went in the fall, the town was quiet and charming, but many shops and attractions were not open due to the season. We returned in the summer and felt like we had arrived in a completely different city. The lively vibe or the city was intoxicating and our days were action packed and brimming with fun.

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5 Family-Friendly Activities in And Around New Orleans

February 22, 2014 by 4 Comments

new orleans

This is the time of year when many people are thinking about planning a family vacation. And when it comes to narrowing down the budget, aside from going to a place that is affordable, another top priority is looking for a destination that has plenty of things for people of all ages to do.

If you’re looking for suggestions on a great family vacation that you can take, have you ever thought about New Orleans? Although it’s oftentimes associated with being a romantic location or a place where a group of friends can go for Mardi Gras, the reality is that it’s also a place that families can enjoy too.

If we’ve piqued your interest and you’d like a list of family-friendly family vacations that are in and around New Orleans, we have provided you with a list of them below:

Slidell Swamp Tours. Something that Louisiana is known for is their swamps. And while they might not initially sound like something that you would be exciting about, it’s actually a lot of fun. If you enjoy
viewing animals in their natural habitat, then you’ve definitely got to take a Slidell Swamp Tour. On this tour, you can get an up close view of alligators, owls and even black bears who are just a few feet from you as you’re riding along in a boat. (CajunEncounter.com.)
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5 Tips for Planning a Family Vacation to Yellowstone National Park

February 21, 2014 by 2 Comments

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Family vacations. They serve as a milestone of memories for so many of us. And when it comes to some of the top places to visit with our family members, without a doubt, Yellowstone National Park goes right up on the top of the list. Not only does it provide an absolutely amazing view and a great place to camp but it has a wide variety of things to do as well.

So, if this is sounding more and more like a place that you’d like to go with your family and you’d like a few planning tips, we’ve got five great ones to make your vacation one that you won’t forget.

Know when to go. Although you can enjoy Yellowstone no matter what time of year that you go, if you want to enjoy the area without having to deal with a lot of tourists, springtime is the most ideal. For one thing, there are not a lot of people then (like there is in the summertime), so you can have the space and privacy to enjoy quality time with your family. Plus, the weather is much milder too.

Know what to pack. You’re going to be doing a lot of walking while you’re there and so you want to be as comfortable as possible. Take jeans, running shoes, rain gear (especially in the spring) and a First-
Aid Kit, just for safe measure. Also, because we’re sure you’re going to see some truly amazing sites, don’t forget to pack a camera too.
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A Sweet Valentine’s Day In Hershey PA

February 13, 2014 by 4 Comments

9 9 13 PA 355

If you are like me, Valentine’s Day is a family affair, as well as a day to remember your sweetheart. In my house, I have two loves- the one I married, and the one I gave birth to. Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love for us – not just the romantic kind. (And there is always after the kids go to bed for a nice amorous evening and eating dessert in peace.)
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Travel Toys and Tips

January 30, 2014 by Leave a Comment

 

Taking your child(ren) on a trip, but worrying about how to keep them quiet on the plane or in the car?

You are not alone.  Many parents have the same concern.  Check out some of these great travel toys and products (and don’t forget to space them out- save some for when boredom hits so you look like the well-planning hero!)

B kids ABC Touch Pad

Learn ABCs, 123s, and more the fun way with this super interactive light and sounds touch pad. Teaches simple A,B,C, 1,2,3, colors and shapes. Includes three modes: learning, game and music.

For younger tots who want to feel like a big kid, this is a good “first” tablet type toy for them. With no delicate screen or electronics that will be damaged by getting chewed on or slapped around a little bit, this lightweight and colorful toy will keep your little ones attention. It will help baby learn letters and shapes, develop motor skills and hand eye coordination, and plays music depending on what setting it is on. Note- does not allow you to plug in headphones.$14.99. (https://shop.bkidsfun.com/product/abc-touch-pad/)

 Nenuco Travel with Me

My Little Nenuco Travel with Me

She loves to go for a ride! Take her with you in her own special car seat. Buckle her up and keep her safe. She loves to keep you company wherever you go.

This adorable doll lets your child care for her just like mommy does. Buckle dolly into her carseat, which keeps baby “safe” with Velcro, as well as instructions on how to secure the baby’s carseat into your car (modify this if you are taking a plane). This can encourage kids to stay safe inside their own seat (to set a good example for “their” baby), and to take good care of their baby by feeding it and changing it (helpful hints to remind your child of if they get fidgety).

$19.99. (http://www.nenucofamosa.com/us/).

My First Green Toys Rattle Keys-Unlock the door to safe, eco-friendly teething for your baby with the My First Green Toys Rattle Keys. Made in the USA from food-safe, 100% recycled plastic milk jugs that save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the four colorful pieces swing freely on the lightweight ring, allowing little ones to easily grasp, shake, and explore different shapes, colors, and textures. Recommended for ages 0 month and up. $7.99 at greentoys.com

When you are taking a trip, why not let even the smallest member of the family feel like they are “helping” move things along? Babies chew on anything- may as well make sure it is as safe as can be when you hand it over. When they aren’t gnawing on this toy, they can use the “keys” to take them where they want to go. The colorful pieces and easy to hold ring are not easily dropped- but since they are going to be held by a small child, you may want to consider a Velcro strap or set of rings to hold them onto his or her seat or diaper bag.

The Tidy Table Tray + Flexi Diner by Bambinos make meal time easier when you’re on-the-go withthe first of its kind new portable table tray. Offering a large eating space and rounded rims to keep spills off the table, it’s easy to use and attaches to most tables via a rubber coated clip, keeping it securely locked in place. It is also BPA free, phthalate free and dishwasher safe. The Tidy Table Tray + Flexi-Diner features an easy on/off insert which can easily turn meal time into play time at anytime!

This is easy to use and clean, and snaps apart and back together easily. Use for meal or snacktime, then just rinse or wipe off (depending on where you are) and pack it up. Great for home and hotel use as well as taking with you to restaurants and to family and friends homes. This is a great all in one, all purpose eating area for small children that even has a sippy cup holder. Bonus? Use it to let kids draw and create art on without having paper and crayons get all over the floor (keep it contained!) It clips to nearly every table and table type surface I have tried it on. (Yes, the plane too!)

$39.99 at www.bambinoschild.com or TARGET stores.

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JourneyBee

The newest, innovative must-have travel crib for parents on the go from ParentLab.  This innovative new travel crib literally opens and closes in seconds and weighs just over ten pounds plus it provides a safe, comfortable place for babies to rest and play all day long.

There are plenty of travel cribs out there, but the journeyBee cribs from ParentLab are the first we’ve seen that are actually light and flexible enough to satisfy the portable-crib needs of families who are always on the move. Weighing in at just 10 pounds and easy to carry on your back, you’ll need only one trip to move the crib from home to car or vice versa. And they’re sturdy enough for road trips, hotels, camping, outdoor play, or bringing along to friends’ and family’s homes for easy nap- or playtime. A breeze to set up, recommended for 0-18 months. If you’re looking for something a little more petite and you’re not in a hurry, the company is planning to release a bassinet version that weighs only 4.3 lbs and folds up smaller than most purses. $169. ParentLab.com.
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