From @BalancingMama

Keep your kids safe online! #digitalkids #internetsafety

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 20 Mar 2019 15:45:00 +0000

Do you worry about how to keep your kids safe online in such an extremely digital world? Read on for my recommendation on an awesome digital parenting tool for Internet safety.

This is not a sponsored post! No one asked me to review the product or share my opinion. I do get a reward if you sign up through the links provided, but it's not about that. I'm only trying to spread the word about an Internet safety product that is working for us. Parenting in such a digital world is scary, people!

My soon-to-be middle schooler got an iPhone for Christmas. I still restrict her to WiFi-only, but she texts her friends and browses the Internet once in a while. I only allow YouTube kids (access to mobile web YouTube is restricted in her settings). So I feel like I'm doing my job. However, you never know what kids will find out there, or what they might be texting one another.

I retain my right as the parent of a minor to read whatever I want on her phone, but I'm also trying to let her feel my trust as she grows up. So far, Bark has been a fantastic Internet safety option for us. It notifies me if any danger words are included in her texts, emails, or browsing activity (it can also track social media networks, YouTube, and more, if your child has access to those). Bark alerts parents of anything that could be related to cyberbullying, sex, suicide, depression, and violence. After I signed up, I still had no issues reported after several weeks. So naturally, I wondered if it was working correctly. But today, I received an alert about a website with potential violence. Bark notified me on my cell phone and email!

It turned out that she looked up Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games series, three books that she recently read and really enjoyed.

While those books do feature violence, she is a very mature and advanced reader - and we allowed her to read the series and watch the movies. So, false alarm! I love that the app sends me those kinds of notifications. She's a really awesome kid and I don't expect trouble, but this gives me peace of mind. You just never know.

Try it for free for a month! After that, the subscription is only $9 monthly. For me, a mama who grew up in the 80s, now navigating this digital world with a soon-to-be middle schooler? This is totally worth it.

I'm not really blogging anymore, but every now and then, I come across something worth sharing. Often, I'll put it on BalancingMama on Facebook. Feel free to follow there if you want to see more.

I have too much to balance, so I'm saying goodbye

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 19:23:00 +0000

Helloooo out there.

I know there are not many eyes reading this post because I have seriously (I mean, horribly, really, really seriously) neglected BalancingMama.

Life is taking enough of my time and parenting/life/travel writing does not have it's little niche in my world anymore. I am writing for businesses, media strategizing, media planning and buying, and managing social media and B2B ad campaigns. It keeps me busy and, frankly, those things pay the bills a whole lot better. I can buy my own tickets to awesome theme parks and newly-released movies and, of course, I will still share my thoughts and favorites on social.

So it's not really goodbye at all... just "see ya elsewhere."

@BalancingMama on Instagram has been changed to @julie.k.mama

Please find me there!

Have you ever used a baby teething necklace?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 18:13:00 +0000

This is a sponsored guest post (ad) from a parent writer and loyal fan of Baltic amber. I have not tested the product myself, but it sounds interesting.

When I made the jump from one kid to two, I was anxiety ridden. I knew that at the end of it all, though, I would survive. After all, I had two hands and a husband. We could take this on and be okay. When I found out that I was pregnant with our third just seven months after having our youngest, I was not sure that we would survive. In fact, I laughed at the thought that I was anxiety ridden before. That was an understatement to what I was feeling about three.

My husband played it cool but I could tell with each passing day, his fear of what of going from two to three also increased. As with anything in our lives, when change is on the horizon it is best to prepare yourself for all possibilities. However, I was not prepared for my seven month old to start teething during the throws of my first trimester morning sickness.

I called my mother one night from the floor of our bathroom. I was hysterically crying about how I did not think I could do it. I was tired and overwhelmed. My baby had become a monster and my toddler was a sassy know-it-all. My husband's work schedule was changing due to his recent promotion and I felt alone. I had no idea how I would make it work when my children outnumbered my hands and the adults in the house.

My mother told me she did not have all the answers. However, she knew how to help my teething toddler and my own migraines. She said it could even help with my anxiety. She recommended Baltic amber. At first I laughed it off - they are only for teething babies! I did not see how it would be the answer to so many other problems.

While doing some research, I found plenty of people who were using Baltic amber for a multitude of problems. Succinic acid is the chemical compound in amber, and it is responsible for decreasing pain caused by increased inflammation. Whether that be in your gums from teething, in your eyes from a headache, in your back from joint and muscle inflammation, or even pregnancy aches and pains...

Succinic acid reacts in the body the same way that taking a dose of OTC Ibuprofen would. Some scientists have linked succinic acid to boosting immunity and moods as well. When worn, your body heats the amber, allowing for the succinic rich oils to seep through its porous surface, transferring healing effects.

I bought a necklace for myself, my toddler and my teething baby from https://www.balticwonder.com/. I put them on each of us. In a matter of 48 hours, my cranky, no-sleeping baby had almost completely reverted back to her old self. She has started taking her daily naps and has gone back to sleeping through most of the night. My toddler's growing pains and headaches appeared to be gone after the third day and my anxiety during pregnancy was also greatly reduced.

I ordered a necklace for my husband and my new baby as well. Baltic amber has changed the way we live our lives! If you are wondering what Baltic amber can do for you and your family, order a necklace and try it out today.

Summer 2018 at World of Coca-Cola! #atlanta

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 01 Jun 2018 14:20:00 +0000

Have you ever been to the World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta? It's a fun attraction for the whole family. They have welcomed over 24 million guests in a span of 25+ years in Atlanta. Pssst... you should be next! I have a family ticket giveaway at the end of this post. Keep reading!

World of Coca-Cola offers interesting sights and experiences around every corner. Visitors can get closer than ever before to the vault containing the secret recipe, view over 1,000 artifacts and get a behind-the-scenes look at the bottling process. Everyone in the family will enjoy a thrilling 4-D movie experience and the tasting room also.

The team at World of Coca-Cola provided a list of five things you won’t want to miss at the attraction this summer:

Beat the Heat – The moment you step in from the sun, World of Coca-Cola welcomes you with an ice-cold beverage to sip as you explore. Coca-Cola’s rich, 132-year history pops in each exhibit – from the Vault of the Secret Formula, where you can discover the myths and legends surrounding the famous Coca-Cola recipe, to Milestones of Refreshment, a trip down memory lane.

Blast from the Past – Ever heard of Sprite Boy? You may be surprised to learn he has nothing to do with the popular lemon-lime flavored soft drink. Die-hard Coca-Cola fans might remember the elfin cartoon from the 40s and 50s – and now you can meet him for yourself in a fun photo op experience. The Story of Sprite Boy is a new exhibit on display through spring 2019 in the Pop Culture Gallery. The pixie-like Coca-Cola character comes to life through original oil paintings, print ads, artifacts and photos from around the world.

Savor the Summer – After exploring the exhibits, pop over to the Taste It! Beverage Lounge, where over 100 familiar and exotic beverages will spice up your summer. You can sample fountain beverages from around the globe as well as recently released, limited-time offerings at the Sampling Bar. Find a new favorite flavor or simply savor the classics!

Drink in the Deals – If you are in search of hot summer deals, look no further than the Atlanta CityPASS, which gets you into five top Atlanta attractions – including World of Coca-Cola – over a nine-day period. Adult tickets cost $76, helping you save a sweet 40 percent on admission. You can purchase CityPASS tickets at World of Coca-Cola ticket windows or online at www.worldofcoca-cola.com.

Coca-Cola Red, White and Blue – Just in time for our nation’s birthday, the Coca-Cola Store at World of Coca-Cola is releasing a new Americana-themed assortment. Fans can rep both Coca-Cola and America the Beautiful with patriotic T-shirts, salt and pepper shakers, wooden signs, kitchen towels and aprons. Items in the collection feature the classic combination of Coca-Cola, stars and stripes.

Visit THIS POST on the BalancingMama Facebook page to enter the giveaway for a family 4-pack of tickets! You can enter with a "like" and/or a comment on the post. Good luck!

World of Coca-Cola provided the tickets for the giveaway. They will be mailed directly to the winner.

This koala teaches kids to cope with change

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 11 Apr 2018 19:19:00 +0000

How do your children cope with change? Does it cause negative behaviors? Children appreciate a predictable routine and change can certainly be worrisome. Whenever you know that change is coming, help your child with some advanced warning and discussion. Of course, many of the most stressful changes come without any notice. What should parents do then?

Bright Horizons Family Solutions, a leading provider of early education and preschools, offers these tips for helping your kids to cope with change:

Keep as much the same as possible
Answer all their questions
Expect that some regression may happen
Be accepting of grieving

If you are looking for a new bedtime read for your young child, I have a lovely suggestion. This book is especially awesome if you are experiencing change that is affecting the family. Look no further than this Scholastic favorite. The Koala Who Could features Kevin, who lives his life clinging to the same tree. Trying anything new is just too scary for poor Kevin, so he misses out on the fun with friends on the ground. Then change happens. Just like it inevitably happens to us humans throughout our lives. Does fluffy fearful Kevin adapt to change? Well, read the book and find out.

Great Wolf Lodge opens in Georgia soon and they just shared THE BEST NEWS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 12 Mar 2018 16:09:00 +0000

Parents, you probably know that Great Wolf Lodge is opening soon in Georgia. You may also know that it will be an easy road trip from Atlanta, offering comfortable accommodations for families of all sizes, fun activities, restaurants, and an awesome water park.

Today, they announced some pretty fabulous additional news.

Great Wolf Lodge Georgia will introduce a new concept called Camp H.O.W.L (Habitat of Wild Learning). The space was designed to feel as though guests have stepped into the Northwoods forest, complete with a Great Wolf Kids cabin that serves as a stage and play space with an assortment of interactive activities. It is a multi-functional space with a variety of complimentary family activities to enjoy together during the daytime. And here is the best part... in the evening, Camp H.O.W.L. transforms into a parent-free, secure kids’ club! Parents can relax after a day full of kid-friendly fun while the children enjoy supervised educational and entertaining activities.

Also debuting at Great Wolf Lodge Georgia will be Northwoods Springs, an adults-only oasis adjacent to the outdoor pool. It will feature a private hot tub and relaxing lounge chairs, and it is exclusive to guests 21 and over! As an added treat, parents can take advantage of Great Wolf Lodge’s signature Wine Down service, where adults can choose from a curated selection of food and wine. Seriously, this is the best Great Wolf Lodge news! This mama cannot wait to visit.


under construction - opens in May! Photo Credit: Mark Ashman

Our family loves Great Wolf Lodge, and we have visited the Charlotte location twice. We are excited for one to open closer to Atlanta! All overnight stays at Great Wolf Lodge Georgia include two days of play at the indoor water park, along with fun-filled activities.

checking a water slide under construction - opens in May!
Photo Credit: Mark Ashman

We all want the same thing: for our kids to be safe

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 23 Feb 2018 17:43:00 +0000

How do we keep our kids safe when "see something, say something" does not work? When school is a potential target for evil acts? I wish I knew the answers. My heart is still broken after so much school violence in the US, most recently at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in south Florida, just 45 minutes from where my niece and nephew attend school.

"She must've texted me three times. Please call the police. Please call the police. Tell them somebody's hurt on my building in my floor." -Parent, Lissette Rozenblat who received these texts from her daughter that afternoon.

People on either end of political extremes will tell you the answer is simple. However, those of us who use critical thinking skills and reasoning know that it is not that simple.

Arm teachers with guns?

I can tell you, I do not know one single teacher who wants to carry a gun. Teachers are trained to teach and support kids, not act as armed protective services. I do not think any of us, except our heroes who have served in war, could ever know exactly how we would react in a deadly situation facing an assault rifle. And sadly, MSDHS had an armed officer. He sat outside the building while students and teachers died by bullets. He was trained! However, when it came down to do-or-die, he did... nothing. He was not able to make a difference. How do you defend against an assault rifle, anyway?!

"As parents, we shouldn’t have to worry when we drop our kids off at school that it could be the last time we see them. But we do." -Kim, Duluth Moms Blog

Beef up school security?

It is a sad fact that kids need as much security as possible at schools. Security measures will take time to implement, and a lot of money. School districts do not have those funds. Most counties do not have those funds. I do not know where the money would come from. We need it. But on the flip side, you have to ask yourself... is someone who is hell bent on killing going to pause when the metal detector beeps? Or obey any other security measures? They can enter a building in some way, somehow, if they have the fire power.

"See something, say something" should have worked. There were so many warnings... and saying something to the police and FBI (more than once) completely failed. Having an armed officer on campus should have helped. All of the drills and practices and safety speeches should have helped. A "background check" prior to assault rifle purchase should have stopped evil. These things did not keep teenagers and teachers safe. Now our country grieves. Again.

What are we to do? I want to see it become extremely difficult to obtain an assault weapon. Really, really, really difficult. With a long waiting period, mental health evaluation, school records check, employment record check, and personal reference checks. Somehow, we need to review current ownership as well. I have to give my personal information to purchase Sudafed for a stuffy nose and I am prohibited from buying too much at one time. So please explain to me how someone, like the Las Vegas shooter, is allowed to own multiple weapons designed for human death? It makes no sense.

I am sad and I am angry. We all need this insanity and evil to stop.

I love my children.
I love yours too.

Upcoming travel? These vacation rentals look awesome!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 16 Feb 2018 12:15:00 +0000

A mega-luxury huge vacation rental is probably not in the budget for your family travel, but this USA Today slide show will get you dreaming! In the article, 50 awesome vacation rentals: A great place to stay in every state, the website shows one amazing rental from each state. They were picked by vacation rental company HomeAway. If you feel like a vacation to remember, recruit a bunch of family friends and split the splurge!

I picked out a few additional options that would sleep up to 12 in some popular southeastern destinations. What do you think?

Orlando, FL
Within 7 miles of the Disney World Resort theme parks! This is an eight-bedroom Orlando home with a private pool that sleeps 16. It is beautifully furnished throughout and includes a Frozen-themed bedroom and an awesome Harry Potter bedroom if you are headed to Universal. Foosball Table, Air Hockey Table, and Table Tennis table all in the home! I do love the Disney World Resort and Universal hotels, but having an entire house with friends would be so much fun and spacious!

Gulf Shores, AL
This stunning penthouse view on the beach has floor-to-ceiling windows and four bedrooms with four bathrooms. One room has twin beds and another is colorful with fish motif and bunk beds. Indoor and outdoor pool available at the property.

Charleston, SC
Charleston offers so much to see and so, and we love visiting there. This Charleston rental property looks awesome! It is located on the second floor of a stately building in the heart of historic downtown. It is directly across Meeting Street from the iconic Mills House and has five bedrooms and a private entrance. Second floor.

Where are you traveling for spring break or summer vacation? We are ready for sunshine and family fun. Winter is long!

Can't play outside? Netflix kids has some great new shows

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 20:32:00 +0000

I love Netflix in the winter, especially when the Netflix kid section has fantastic new shows. We are luckily to be in the Atlanta, Georgia area where winter is not too bad, but it is still gray and often rainy. The weather makes us tired and blah, so I admit, my kiddos watch more TV than usual. Especially the younger one, who is only in preschool four hours per day (and I work from home at least six hours each day).

In a dreamland where she can make anything possible, Luna Petunia is back in this follow-up to the Canadian-American series. It is great for ages 3-6.

Dreamwork's Dragons returns for a sixth season of high flying and great adventure. It will have 13 episodes and it is recommended for ages 5-10.

Also for the 5-10 year old age group, Atomic Puppet will launch on February 22nd, 2018. This was a show on Disney XD a couple years ago, and soon the kids can stream the excitement of a 6th grader teaming up with a former superhero who’s been transformed into a sock puppet. Yes... really! Thanks to Netflix kids.

These new Netflix kids programs join some already-beloved titles like Beat Bugs and Trollhunters, (both of these first aired in 2016). And as a kid of the 1980s, I love that they brought back and modernized a lot of our favorites like Inspector Gadget and Danger Mouse! I challenge you to not get those two theme songs stuck in your head.

What are you watching when the weather keeps you in?

These things were awesome about #TheLastJedi

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 13 Dec 2017 17:18:00 +0000

Star Wars fans, are you ready? Of course you are. Star Wars: The Last Jedi opens on Friday! The saga of Skywalker continues when the heroes of The Force Awakens join their galactic legends. This adventure unlocks age-old mysteries of the Force - and you may just be surprised.

I could feel the giddy excitement in the theater on Monday night when local news media, professional critics and bloggers gathered for a “secret” (and complimentary) first showing of the film. Admittedly, I am not a huge fan of the Star Wars franchise. I did not grow up watching the original movies and I get very confused about the order of them all. I hated kid Anakin and Natalie Portman’s Amidala character irked me. However, the latest two Star Wars films with Rey and Finn had me captivated and very entertained. So, here are some of my initial thoughts on The Last Jedi.

I would rate it PG-8

The Last Jedi is rated PG-13. I do not recall bad language and there is not any sexy stuff. I think kids between the ages of 7-10 can watch it, as long as they have seen the other films and know what to expect. A few characters look frightening. Battle scenes are constant, but not at all gory (you do not squirt out blood when sliced by a lightsaber). The film is intense with a lot of darkness. Children may not fully understand the mysteries of the Force, but that is probably not important for a kid to enjoy the movie. Use your parental judgement to decide who you take to see it. I would not recommend it for any children under seven or those who have not seen The Force Awakens and other Star Wars films.

I loved the girl power

Soooo many tough, smart, and powerful women in The Last Jedi! I cannot say much because I want to avoid spoilers, but the girl power is strong. Diversity is there as well. You do not have to be a white male to be a hero in the galaxy, and that is simply awesome.

I disagree with critics saying it is a “letdown”

I cannot speak from the position of a Star Wars fanatic who may evaluate every detail. I get bored in movies easily, and this one kept my attention for the entire 2 hours and 30 minutes. I do not like extended fighting scenes just for the sake of “action,” and I do not feel like that was the case in The Last Jedi. This was a great movie and I was literally on the edge of my seat through most of it. My almost-40-year-old lower back was sore the next morning from the tension.

I need a Porg in my life

Han Solo is usually the character with cheesy lines giving us comic relief in between action and adventure. He is not in The Last Jedi (see The Force Awakens if you need to ask why), so comic relief came in other forms. Most notably, from the shrieking and adorable Porgs. These puffin-like creatures became social media darlings after their reveal in the latest trailer. Just wait for The Last Jedi, because you will want to take a Porg home and squeeze it forever. Move over, Ewoks!

Bottom line: buy your tickets. Go see it. If your spouse, date, or kid is a Star Wars fanatic and you are not, you will be okay. I promise. It is a film that will grab your attention, stress you out, and make you laugh. You will want to be BFFs with the kick-butt women too.

Press photos from IMDb, Star Wars Last Jedi, 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd.

Trailer for "A Wrinkle In Time" with Oprah Winfrey

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 07 Dec 2017 16:37:00 +0000

Disney's A Wrinkle in Time opens in theaters everywhere on March 19, 2018!

Through one girl’s transformative journey led by three celestial guides, we will discover that strength comes from embracing one’s individuality and that the best way to triumph over fear is to travel by one’s own light. Disney’s “A Wrinkle in Time” is an epic adventure based on Madeleine L’Engle’s timeless classic. The amazing cast includes Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, Mindy Kaling, and Zach Galifianakis.

Like A WRINKLE IN TIME on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WrinkleInTimeMovie/

Follow A WRINKLE IN TIME on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wrinkleintime/

Visit the official A WRINKLE IN TIME website here: http://movies.disney.com/a-wrinkle-in-time

Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Over Georgia: sparkles and laughs!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 22 Nov 2017 14:35:00 +0000

Holiday in the Park 2017 opened at Six Flags Over Georgia and runs from November 18, 2017 through January 3, 2018. This is the 4th year for the sparkling wonderland of music, rides, and treats. Holiday in the Park features a variety of delightful and interactive activities to get you in the holiday spirit.

We are season pass holders to Six Flags Over Georgia (including Hurricane Harbor and Whitewater), but this was a media night experience with a couple extra perks. All opinions are 100% mine.

This Atlanta-area winter event is fun for all ages. Our 9-year old adrenaline junkie screamed and giggled on coasters like Superman, Mindbender, and the 20-story high 70 MPH awesomeness that is Goliath. Our smaller child is about half an inch under the 42" milestone but he had a blast on the twinkling carousel, Wonder Woman Flight School, The Batcopters and more. Six Flags Over Georgia is all about family fun during the holidays! The husband and I finally got a chance to experience Justice League: Battle for Metropolis, thanks to the parent swap option.

The nightly tree lighting earns ooohs and aaahs at 6 pm at Main Street. Other Holiday in the Park entertainment includes carolers, the Retro Christmas USA special, and Because it's Christmas, the heartwarming holiday show about love and family.

Hungry for some dinner or a sweet treat inside the park? You can create your own s’mores, enjoy a meal, or warm up with a cup of hot chocolate. Or, indulge in a red velvet funnel cake or apple cinnamon and pumpkin spice pretzel. Yum!

This is the absolute best time to buy a season pass for Six Flags Over Georgia and Whitewater! If you purchase your 2018 season pass during the low-price holiday special (black Friday through Cyber Monday), you can enjoy Holiday in the Park now and all of the other exciting attractions at Six Flags, Hurricane Harbor, and Whitewater through all of next year! Passes during this special sale also include FREE PARKING. If you are anywhere near the Atlanta area, it pays for itself.

Images are from BalancingMama and Six Flags Over Georgia on YouTube.

It's here: Studio Movie Grill Marietta is open! #ATL

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 21 Nov 2017 17:30:00 +0000

Our family of four was treated to a free screening of Pixar's Coco with appetizers and drinks at the brand new Studio Movie Grill Marietta for the purpose of sharing our experience with you. All opinions are 100% mine.

Studio Movie Grill Marietta is open!

The innovative thinkers at Studio Movie Grill opened their 29th location last week with the grand opening of Studio Movie Grill Marietta, just a quick drive up I-75 from the city of Atlanta. The 49,000-square-foot space has 11 dine-in auditoriums. In addition, you can relax before or after the movie in the well-stocked bar or on the outdoor patio lined with cozy fire columns. The drink menu includes wine, beer, liquor, and soft drinks.

My family enjoyed the crispy chicken bites, soft pretzel bites with queso dip, and popcorn during our visit. The kids stayed refreshed with water while the husband and I each had a complimentary beer (complimentary only during our media event; menu prices will apply). The food came out hot and tasty and everyone was happy with their movie munchies.You can preview the Studio Movie Grill menu here.

The theater was very comfortable. We enjoyed the custom-made leather recliners. The theater seats have swiveling table tops with a cup holder and a push button for service. The wait staff was attentive and friendly, and they did not distract us from the movie at all. They are very careful to duck down and move quickly within the aisles when serving.

If you are near the Marietta, GA area, I definitely recommend an evening out at Studio Movie Grill. It is a lot of fun for date night or a family outing with the kids. The new location is located at 40 Powers Ferry Road, not far from our beloved "big chicken." And here's even more incentive to go as soon as you can... to celebrate the opening, $3 online only tickets with the code "SMGMARIETTA" will be offered from November 16 through December 6, 2017.

Box office tickets will be $9 for adults, $6 for children and $7 for matinees.

Coming soon to DVD! #NutJob2 (Win a copy here!)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 14:10:00 +0000

Cold weather has arrived, so here is a DVD giveaway that is perfect for family movie night!

Surly Squirrel and the gang are back, returning to Liberty Park after they are forced to leave their easy life at the nut store. Getting back to nature is the last thing Surly wants to do, but when a greedy mayor decides to destroy the park to build an amusement park, Surly and his ragtag critter friends must band together to save the place they call home.

Cast: Will Arnett, Maya Rudolph, Jackie Chan, Katherine Heigl, Bobby Moynihan, Bobby Cannavale, Isabela Moner, Jeff Dunham, Gabriel Igelsias

* * * * *
WIN a DVD combo pack of THE NUT JOB 2: NUTTY BY NATURE and a few other goodies right here on this Facebook post. Click to the Facebook post and leave a comment for your chance to win.
* * * * *

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNutJobMovie
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheNutJobMovie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenutjobmovie

Unique Halloween costumes for tweens who want to stand out

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 14 Oct 2017 22:02:00 +0000

Halloween costumes for tweens, kids, and adults are everywhere beginning as early as September 25th. Does your family have have their Halloween costumes selected yet? This year, the usual super heroes, princesses, and witches are joined with Minecraft and LEGO characters as some of the most popular.

Tweens are at the age where they want to be cool and Mom and Dad do not want them to be too grown up (sexy tweens... not cool). So what if your 9-12 year old wants to choose from unique Halloween costumes for tweens? Where can you look?

Most likely, Halloween superstores pop up in your area (or a nearby city) before the calendar reads October. Take some time to walk around one of these stores or browse websites if you have time for shipping. You can find some great ideas that are unique for kids and fun-loving adults as well.

Here are a few favorites that were approved by me (mom) and my daughter (tween):

Unique Halloween costumes for tweens

Spirit Halloween and Halloween Megastore are two costume and decor themed shops that appear in the southeast US for holiday needs. We fell in love with these unique costume ideas:

Hooded Huntress Costume

This one from Spirit Halloween is a perfect mix of fantasy and toughness, with the hooded cloak and bow and arrow. This girl doesn't need a dress for a royal ball! She's outdoorsy and strong.

Mad Hatter Costume

Colorful and lots of fun, this costume can be paired with extra accessories if your tween wants to go over-the-top.

Where's Waldo Costume

Your tween boy or girl can hide and be found in this Waldo costume. This is a simple one from Party City to pair with the child's own pants and shoes. Waldo is iconic and beloved everywhere, but he's not always seen out there on Halloween.(Moms and Dads can find Waldo and Wendy costumes too. Wouldn't this be an adorable family idea?)

Creepy Clown Costumes

By this age, tweens often want to have fun with scary costumes. What is it about clowns that can be really creepy? Well, let there be no doubt that these clowns are truly creepy. And pretty much evil. If your older child is interested in scaring the smaller neighbors... one of these could be a good choice. Girls' costume shown is from HalloweenCostumes.com and the other is from WalMart.

If you look, you can easily find many choices that are unique for your 9-12 year old. Here are some DIY Tween Costumes that may also create a special memory - if you are a little bit crafty at home:

Make these strawberry and pineapple costumes kid-sized for a sweet idea

Or, what about this hilarious stick figure costume? White clothes, electrical tape, and a paper plate. Genius! See the original pin.

Happy Halloween! Have fun and let them express themselves in a unique way.

Coupons to save money on books and school supplies

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 29 Aug 2017 15:50:00 +0000

This post was written in conjunction with a US Family Guide media effort on behalf of Groupon Coupons. All opinions in this article are 100% mine.

Kids are expensive; do you use coupons to save money?

The K-12 students in our area have been in school for almost a month now, and I think the rest of the country is finally catching up and getting back to class. While the initial school supply lists are probably completed, you can usually expect to have more on your shopping list within those first few months. We usually end up with additional classroom requests, holiday celebration prep, or fiction and non-fiction books to purchase from a reading list. Our nine-year-old daughter is an avid reader, and Barnes and Noble is one of her favorite places. School and soccer season are busy here, but I always make sure to have her stocked with great books to read. Reading is ideal for resting her body before a big game and giving her down time before bed on a long school day.

Everyone knows Groupon, right? The site/app with 70,000 deals on over 9,000 retailers also has coupons! Groupon Coupons offers a multitude of coupons, both printable and online, for hundreds of your favorite go-to retailers. Save money on books with Barnes and Noble coupons.

Or, grab the kids' last-minute school needs with a Groupon Coupon to Target. 70 Target coupons are currently available! Or... maybe you prefer the convenience of Amazon.com? Yes, there are even coupons for Amazon.

Savings on top of savings! You've got to love that. Other Groupon Coupon retailers include:

Babies-R-Us
Famous Footwear
Office Depot
JC Penney
Orvis
Puma
Lego
Bed Bath and Beyond
PetCo
Sam's Club

and soooooo many more. Groupon even has coupon codes for travel sites like Travelocity, Expedia, and Hotels.com. Don't pay more than you have to; look for Groupon Coupons before your next purchase for the family.

Lessons for first-time car buyers

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 28 Aug 2017 19:43:00 +0000

This post was written in conjunction with a US Family Guide media effort on behalf of Cars.com. All opinions in this article are 100% mine.

I just purchased car #3 in my lifetime. I had a good experience using the convenience of email and sites/apps like Cars.com for searching and pricing. I am thrilled with my sapphire blue Honda Pilot and the fantastic price I was able to get by driving about 30 minutes out of the major metro area.

For first-time car purchasers, the buying process and early ownership can cause worry. But do not fear! You can purchase a vehicle and ensure a fair price with the right research and effort. Taking care of your new vehicle is a matter of three steps.

New car buying: research and reach out

To purchase your new vehicle, do the research first. Visit car pricing sites to determine which features you want on your vehicle and which trim levels match what you want. Cars.com allowed me to make sense of Honda's EX, EXL, Touring, and Elite trims and see how each added luxury feature affected the price. I was able to understand what the price should be for my preferred vehicle.

After research, make the effort to contact 8-10 dealerships, even those that may mean a bit of a drive. When you live in a big city like I do (Atlanta metro), you may find that a dealership in a smaller city will be more willing to meet your price. I got my vehicle for a few thousand dollars less in Cartersville! Cars.com helped me to browse dealership inventory (I was looking for sapphire blue, for example) and contact information for dealers.

Taking care of your first car

A new car is a big investment, so take good care of it. Follow these three rules to enjoy your vehicle for a long time.

Keep it clean
Be respectful of the money you spent and treat your vehicle with kindness. Kids and pets can, of course, be messy, but take time to clean out the interior whenever you can. Wash the exterior so brake dust, road salt, pollen, and other environmental irritants do not damage wheel wells and paint.

Never forget regular maintenance
Know your vehicle fluids and keep an eye on levels. Get oil changes as needed. Never ignore recall notices. Find a mechanic you trust and keep your car running smoothly.

Drive safely and watch out for door dings
Obviously, you want an accident-free life for your new car. Drive safely and follow traffic laws. Door dings can happen anywhere, and they are way too common in the city and suburbs. My blue beauty has two dings already, and I have owned it for only four months. (Luckily, I took advantage of the door ding and windshield repair coverage from my awesome dealership, so those will be gone soon). If you have to park farther away, do it. Getting a door ding on a new vehicle is not cool.

For other great advice on new car ownership, check out the first time car buyer advice on Cars.com.

Cirque du Soleil LUZIA in Atlanta

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 24 Aug 2017 14:22:00 +0000

LUZIA, the newest Big Top show from Cirque du Soleil will be opening on September 14 at Atlantic Station in Atlanta. Experience water inside the big top, jaw dropping acts and larger than life props in this unique production unlike any show you have seen before. LUZIA takes you to an imaginary Mexico, like in a waking dream, where light quenches the spirit and rain soothes the soul.

LUZIA opens on September 14 at Atlantic Station and runs through November 19. Get ready to be transported to a surreal world of wonders!

Giveaway!

I have four (4) tickets to the LUZIA show on Thursday, October 5th at 8pm. To enter, like this BalancingMama Facebook post and leave a comment telling me who you will bring with you if you win. The giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook.

Do you want to go on another date and save a bit of cash? Right now, you can buy your tickets with a special 20% offer now before they sell out! Offer is valid on select show dates and times while supplies last. This offer may not be combined with other offers or applied to previously purchased tickets. To see the shows and seats available at 20% off, visit Cirque LUZIA Atlanta Deals. But hurry, this back-to-school Cirque du Soleil LUZIA discount ends on September 8th.

Awesome preschool apps: Grandma and Grandpa

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 16:01:00 +0000

This post is not sponsored by Fairlady Media.

Favorite preschooler apps

Have you discovered the Fairlady Media "Grandpa" and "Grandma" apps for your 3-6 year old yet? I stumbled upon these educational preschool games recently when my 3 1/2 year old had a case of "I'm bored" syndrome. I was trying to finish up a work project, so we downloaded a couple new apps on the family iPad.

We started with Fishing With Grandpa (ages 3-6) and Grandma's Preschool (also for ages 3-6). My preschooler was "hooked" right away... fish pun intended.

The Fairlady Media Grandma and Grandpa apps are loaded with educational mini games, puzzles, and short videos on each topic. There are no penalties for making a mistake in a game, which I always prefer for younger children. They simply try again until they get it right. This makes for a game the little ones can enjoy independently. And we all know that today's kids love videos. (Because let's face it, sometimes screen time is for Mom!)

These are not free preschool apps. They usually cost $3 each, or you can purchase a bundle like the Fairlady Preschool Pack or the Fairlady Big Kids Pack. If you are okay with the cost, I would recommend a bundle buy. Trust me, once you have one or two of these preschool apps, you and your child will want to get the others.

There are 13 total Grandma or Grandpa apps available via iTunes. A few of the apps are suitable for older ages, so your child can play and learn from Grandma and Grandpa for years to come. Grandpa In Space is for ages 5-8. Grandpa's Toy Shop is for ages 6-9. Grandma's Beach Fun is for ages 5-9. Alas, I do not believe these are available yet on Google Play for Android devices.

Sid the Science Kid is coming to Atlanta!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 16:39:00 +0000

I have an inquisitive boy who would love to go on a Sid the Science kid adventure! This new exhibit is coming in mid-September 2017 to the Children's Museum of Atlanta.

Here is what the creative folks at the museum have to say about the new Super-Duper exhibit, coming soon!

This exciting new traveling exhibit brings the award-winning PBS KIDS TV series Sid the Science Kid to life. For the first time ever, kids will be able to step into Sid’s world and become “science kids” themselves as they discover and investigate everyday science questions around Sid’s home, at school in the Super Fab Lab and on the playground. Through fun, hands-on activities, kids will use scientific tools to learn about simple machines, the laws of motion, magnetism, air power and the five senses.

“Knowing that Sid the Science Kid is a popular television program among our visitors was one of the main reasons we wanted to bring this exhibit to Atlanta,” said Jane Turner, executive director of the Children’s Museum of Atlanta. “This interactive exhibit will allow children to engage in the power of play through entering Sid’s world like never before and immersing themselves into various elements of science.”

It’s sure to be a super-duper-ooper-schmooper good time!

Sid the Science Kid: The Super-Duper Exhibit! opens at Children’s Museum of Atlanta on September 16, 2017. It runs through January 15, 2018. Familiar environments within the show were recreated to give visitors the sense that they are truly inside Sid’s world. The exhibit is included with regular museum admission.

This should definitely go on your calendar as a must-do family outing.

For all the info you need to plan a day at the Children's Museum of Atlanta, click over to http://childrensmuseumatlanta.org/

Painted rocks: inexpensive summer fun

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 13:06:00 +0000

Thousands of families all over the country are getting into the painted rocks movement. Find a rock, hide a rock, paint a rock, leave a rock... it's a lot of fun! The painted rocks movement provides a perfect opportunity to step away from technology and have quality creative time with the kids. Your rocks can be found anywhere outdoors, so the only cost is that of paint and brushes.

Painted rocks: how to join the fun

Organized by state, county or town, painted rocks groups often launch on Facebook. These groups are made up of local members who join in the fun of this movement. Rocks often include words of wisdom or comfort. The joy of finding handmade art spreads happiness, so there really are no restrictions on what you create.

When it comes to hiding your artistic rocks, please do not leave them inside stores or other public buildings. Leave them outdoors without damaging lights, wires, or plants. Leave them where they are somewhat hidden, but still able to be spotted by passersby. When you find a painted rock, you can bring it home or re-hide it for others to find. If you bring one home, you need to paint another one and keep the movement going!

The Kindness Rocks Project is credited by most as the origin of the Painted Rocks Movement.

Check out what the Today Show had to say about the rock painting movement.

Painted rocks: our experience

I enjoyed the quiet peace of painting the rocks, as did my three-year-old and creative nine-year-old. Together we brainstormed places to hide the rocks, and we connected with others in a local painted rocks Facebook group. This is the perfect summer activity when you hear "Mom! I'm bored!" Hunting for free rock art is enjoyable too!

Here are a few more of our creations this week:

What are you waiting for?
Search Facebook for "(your county or city) rocks" and join in the adventure!

Dinosaur roadside attraction near Palm Springs, California #travelwithkids

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 01:33:00 +0000

The silliest stop on our southern California adventure was also one of the most memorable. We took the family to meet the large and amazing Cabazon Dinosaurs!

These huge dinosaurs are an easy road trip from the Palm Springs, California area. The drive was about 22 minutes on Interstate 10. My husband surprised the kids with a stop to visit the dinosaurs on our way to Joshua Tree National Park. Parking was plentiful and we were able to snap some photos of the California dinosaurs and visit the gift shop. The Cabazon Dinosaurs roadside attraction is a must for dinosaur lovers! (And I know many of you remember the movie Pee Wee Herman's Big Adventure, whether you will admit it or not.)

The kids, ages 3 and 9, thought the dinosaurs were funny and we had a good time snapping photos and waving hello to these giants, way up high. If you are near Palm Springs, California, do not forget to drive the kids over to this entertaining attraction. The Cabazon Dinosaurs certainly make a BIG impression!

This post was not sponsored, I just think you should visit! Especially if you have kids along on your adventures. Roar!

Food for summer! Applebee's Big Bold Grill Combos

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 04 Jun 2017 18:43:00 +0000

My family was treated to a complimentary meal at our local Applebee's in the metro Atlanta area so we could share our experience with the new Big and Bold Grill Combos. All opinions are 100% mine.

Summertime food... grilled, fresh, and flavorful. I enjoy eating out with my family, and we had a great experience tasting the Big and Bold Grill Combos at Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar®. These combos are priced well and offer a lot of selection. The Applebee's Big and Bold Grill Combos start at $12.99 and diners can choose from various combinations of two grilled entrees and two sides.

I had the honey BBQ half rack of ribs and grilled chicken with pico de gallo. The ribs were tender and the sauce had just the right amount of smoky flavor and sweetness. I paired my entrees with the new Applebee's garlicky bacon green beans - which I really enjoyed. Who doesn't like veggies with bacon?! I also complimented my meal with a hot basket of french fries. The meal was large and the variety of flavors worked together well.

My husband ordered the salmon with maple mustard glaze and steamed spinach along with the grilled shrimp skewer. His sides were steamed broccoli and a basket of fries. Everything was flavorful and cooked right, and he especially liked the tangy-and-sweet maple mustard glaze.

Other choices of Big and Bold Grill Combos from Applebee's include:

4-ounce USDA Choice Top Sirloin & Half Rack Baby Back Ribs
4-ounce USDA Choice Top Sirloin & Grilled Shrimp Skewer
Grilled Shrimp Skewer & Grilled Chicken Breast with Pico de Gallo

The children accompanied us for this Sunday lunch at Applebee's. My kids are not adventurous at all when it comes to food, so chicken tenders made them happy. Our daughter was excited to see mozzarella sticks on the kids' menu as a side, so she had those. The little guy devoured his french fries with the crunchy chicken tenders.

For more information on the grilled combos (available for a limited time) and other deals from Applebee's, check out the online menu. Price and participation may vary by location. You can also follow Applebee's on social:
Instagram: @applebees
Twitter: @applebees
Facebook: www.facebook.com/applebees

Have a super summer in Atlanta at World of Coca-Cola #giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 31 May 2017 12:31:00 +0000

Have you visited the unique and refreshing World of Coca-Cola? Or the jaw-dropping Georgia Aquarium? How about the Atlanta Zoo? Atlanta is an exciting destination packed with family attractions and summer fun. We live here, and enjoy playing tourist at some of the best attractions in the USA.

The team at World of Coca-Cola put together a list of five ways to savor summer at World of Coca-Cola.... check out some of the summer 2017 happenings!

World of Coca-Cola unveiled a new exhibit called “10 Artists, 10 Bottles” on Friday, May 19. The exhibit celebrates Atlanta’s creative community by featuring the work of 10 local artists who transformed four-foot sculpted Coke bottles into unique pieces of art.

In search of refreshing destinations for summertime fun? World of Coca-Cola is uncapping new experiences for everyone to enjoy – just in time for summer! With interactive exhibits celebrating everything from Atlanta artists to soccer around the world, World of Coca-Cola is bubbling with exciting ways for families and friends to create memorable moments together.

1. ICE COLD Summer Fun. When you arrive at Pemberton Place on July 15 and 16, expect a warm welcome with a cold beverage. During the “Share an ICE COLD Coke” experience, sip on free customized mini cans of Coca-Cola and Coca-Cola Zero before interacting with the Bubble-izer, one-of-a-kind technology that virtually transforms you into an effervescent fizzy form. Be sure to snap a photo and share your new look with your friends!

2. Pop Culture Paradise. World of Coca-Cola is celebrating 10 years at Pemberton Place with a new Pop Culture Gallery exhibit that is overflowing with creativity and inspiration. “10 Artists, 10 Bottles” features 10 different four-foot sculpted Coke bottles uniquely designed by 10 renowned Atlanta artists. With everything from abstract art to recycled glass bottles, the new gallery offers up a taste of local talent.

3. #InstaFamous. Visitors have been buzzing about the #ShareaCokeWithATL gallery – so much so that World of Coca-Cola is extending the temporary exhibit through November. Featuring the work of 12 local Instagram artists, the #ShareaCokewithATL gallery celebrates the rich history of Atlanta and Coca-Cola with images pairing popular Atlanta landmarks with the iconic glass Coke bottle. Snap and share your own photos using #ShareaCokewithATL for a chance to be featured online by World of Coca-Cola.

4. GOOOOAAAALLLL! Whether you call it “soccer” or “football,” we are all excited to welcome Atlanta United to our hometown. To celebrate the team’s inaugural season and Coca-Cola’s longstanding support of soccer worldwide, World of Coca-Cola is unveiling the “Coke and Soccer” exhibit in the Hub this summer. With more than 20 countries represented, fans of all ages will have a ball exploring the collection of soccer memorabilia.

5. A World of Taste Awaits. Take your palette on an adventure this summer in the Taste It! beverage lounge, where you can sample more than 100 beverages from around the world. Savor new flavors like Indonesia’s Frestea Green Honey or the Dominican Republic’s Country Club Merengue, available for a limited time. Then, head over to the Sampling Bar to try one of the latest products from The Coca-Cola Company, like Honest Sport, which launches nationwide this summer.

That’s not all – if you’re thirsting for savings this summer, you’re in luck! In celebration of 10 years at Pemberton Place, World of Coca-Cola will offer a limited-time Summer Pass. Valid May 26 through Aug. 31, the pass provides unlimited chances to chill with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear for just $25 – less than the price of two general admission tickets. Throughout the season, World of Coca-Cola will also announce special offers on its social channels, so follow @WorldofCocaCola on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to score some sweet deals!

GIVEAWAY!
Want a chance to win a family 4-pack of tickets to World of Coca-Cola for this summer? Click over to this post via BalancingMama on Facebook to enter! Giveaway launches May 31, 2017 and entries will be accepted through 10pm EST on June 6th. Winner will be notified on June 7th, 2017. Facebook is not affiliated with the giveaway. Tickets will be sent to the winner from the World of Coca-Cola.

Ka-chow! Disney Pixar Cars 3 is coming soon!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 11 May 2017 14:39:00 +0000

Cars 3 opens in theaters everywhere on June 16th!

"Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves. To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician, Cruz Ramirez , with her own plan to win, plus inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns."

Find more trailers and activities on the Disney Movies Cars 3 website.

Like CARS on Facebook

Follow CARS 3 on Twitter

Follow CARS 3 on Instagram

Subscribe to the Disney/Pixar YouTube channel