Not Your Typical Mommy

Claritin & Madagascar 3 Preview Party

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Sun, 03 Jun 2012 02:03:00 +0000

My kids are huge fans of the Madagascar series.

So when they heard a third installment of the series was due out this month, they went bananas.

As a part of the Claritin Mom Crew, I was lucky enough to prep for the June 6, 2012 release of Madagascar 3 with a Madagascar party!

We received a copy of Madagascar (the Original) and Madagascar 2 to share with our friends.

I set up a small gathering of friends, complete with popcorn, Claritin samples (because allergies are still going crazy here in Florida), and penguin gummies.

We watched the movies, played some silly games and ate way too much popcorn.

All of the kids had a blast and so did the Moms because the Madagascar movies are funny and heartwarming.

Now all the kids are geared up for Madagascar 3 and are currently still singing the Marty Polka Dot, Afro, Circus song.

I received a party pack from the Claritin Mom Crew and Mom Select. All opinions in this post are 100% my own. Please see my full disclosure policy for more information.

The Hilton Orlando and The Spa

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Thu, 24 May 2012 18:25:00 +0000

As a Mom, I am always on the go… seriously, it never ends.

And typically, I’ll let myself run ragged taking care of everyone else in the family.

Not anymore.

Because when mama is broke down, the whole family suffers.

The other day I was invited to check out The Spa at the Hilton Orlando.

From the moment I pulled up, I was in heaven (and this is not entirely because I was without children). The valet was nice, the front desk people were helpful and it was a gorgeous hotel.

The Spa was beautiful and a calmness was in the air.

No screaming children, no demands from work, nothing but peace.

I never wanted to leave.

I had a tour of the facilities, including the amazing gym that has a view of the pool.

I had an appointment for a 50 minute massage so I got ready and was able to spend some time on their comfortable lounge chairs with ice cold water.

Nice, huh?

The massage itself was wonderful. I was so relaxed and the entire atmosphere was serene. I could've stayed there forever.

But they wouldn't let me... well, they would've let me but I had two children at home that would eventually notice I was missing.

Overall, the experience was amazing.

The people were nice, the services were fantastic and I can't wait to go back again.

The Hilton Orlando is located at 6001 Destination Parkway in Orlando (off of International Drive) and you can find out about all the amenities The Spa offers by visiting their website.

I received a spa treatment in exchange for this review. All opinions in this post are 100% my own. Please see my full disclosure policy for more information.

Summer Movies at the Enzian

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Thu, 24 May 2012 13:10:00 +0000

Summer is all about fun in our family. Since the kiddies are out of school, I try and pack as much fun as I can in every dang day.

My kids love me for it.

And I want you to love me too, so check out this fun family activity (plus it's cheap... as in free on certain days).

From the press release:

"Enzian Announces a Sizzling Summer Lineup of Free Family Films

Orlando, FL (May 23, 2012) – Movie lovers of all ages can beat the heat this summer and enjoy an exceptional selection of family-friendly flicks ranging from unique, side-splitting silent comedy classics to popular retro favorites. Enzian’s annual KidFest Summer Movies series offers FREE weekday screenings and $5 presentations on weekends. The “sun”sational schedule, sponsored by Walt Disney World, kicks off Sunday, July 22 and continues through Sunday, August 5.

To purchase tickets and for more information, visit Enzian.org.

KidFest Summer Movie Series:

THE GOLD RUSH (1925)

Newly restored 35mm print!

The legendary Charlie Chaplin showcases his comic genius as a lone prospector searching the Yukon for riches. The Little Tramp finds love and uproarious adventure in this wonderful, timeless comedy classic.

Sun. July 22, 11AM, $5

Tues. July 24, 3PM, FREE

JASON AND THE ARGONAUTS (1963)

Rated G

“Some say Casablanca or Citizen Kane. I say JASON AND THE ARGONAUTS is the greatest film ever made.” -Tom Hanks

Special effects wizard Ray Harryhausen works his stop-motion magic in this mythological adventure complete with swashbuckling skeletons in a fable about Jason’s search for the Golden Fleece.

Sun. July 22, 1:15PM, $5

Wed. July 25, 3PM, FREE

-more-

Continued Page 2:

THE GOONIES (1985)

Rated PG

Embark on a rollicking journey of adventure, pirates, and mutants in this action-fantasy ‘80s classic produced by Steven Spielberg. The Goonies, played by a dream team of child actors, hunt for buried treasure and fall into all kinds of trouble.

Thurs. July 26, 3PM, FREE

Sat. July 28, 1PM, $5

SPIRITED AWAY (2002)

10th Anniversary. New 35mm print!

Rated PG

Hayao Miyazaki’s magical adventure and Academy Award® Winner for Best Animated Feature is a dazzling, enchanting, and gorgeously drawn fairy tale about a young girl who wanders into a world populated by Japan’s gods and spirits.

Sun. July 29, 1PM, $5

Tues. July 31, 3PM, FREE

FLY AWAY HOME (1996)

Rated PG

A rare family film that inspires and entertains, FLY AWAY HOME is a thrilling adventure for animal lovers from the director of The Black Stallion. Anna Paquin plays an Australian girl sent to Canada to live with her estranged father (Jeff Daniels), an eccentric inventor, and finds herself “adopted” by a family of orphaned geese.

Wed. August 1, 3PM, FREE

Sun. August 5, 1PM, $5

WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT? (1988)

Rated PG

Director Robert Zemeckis's trailblazing combination of animation and live-action was an instant slapstick classic from Disney and Steven Spielberg. Gloriously entertaining, Bob Hoskins stars as a 1940’s private detective hired to help prove a cartoon rabbit’s innocence.

Thurs. August 2, 3PM, FREE

Sat. August 4, 1PM, $5

About Enzian:

Enzian is Central Florida's only full-time, not-for-profit cinema for first-run independent and international films, classic revivals, documentary features, and select family entertainment. Enzian, a member-supported organization serving the community for 27 years, is home to the internationally recognized Florida Film Festival and the Eden Bar.

For additional information:

On-line: Enzian.org

Phone: (407) 629-1088

Facebook: Facebook.com/EnzianTheater

Twitter: @EnzianTheater"

Discovery Cove & Sea World

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Tue, 22 May 2012 13:53:00 +0000

It's practically summertime in Florida (it's already hot enough!), so it's time to start lining up fun things to do with the kids over their school break.

Here's the latest from Sea World and Discovery Cove.

From the press release:

"A Day at Discovery Cove now includes admission
to SeaWorld Orlando AND Aquatica

Orlando, Fla. (May 22, 2012) – Discovery Cove is offering the ultimate vacation for Orlando visitors with the introduction of a new, all-inclusive package: A day at Discovery Cove now includes unlimited admission to SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica, SeaWorld’s waterpark.

These three parks -- Discovery Cove, SeaWorld and Aquatica -- are now known collectively as SeaWorld Parks & Resorts Orlando, the only place in the world that features unique adventures that connect families with animals, the sea and each other. It’s the one destination in Orlando where animals are the highlight and includes preferred hotel stays and exclusive benefits.

“This new offer is incredible for guests because it allows them to explore Discovery Cove for the day and also enjoy SeaWorld and Aquatica during their Orlando vacation, so they can experience the amazing animal connections that all of our parks deliver in their own way.” said Toni Caracciolo, Marketing Vice President for SeaWorld Parks & Resorts. “It also solidifies the Discovery Cove reservation as a true, all-inclusive package,” she added.

At Discovery Cove, guests can enjoy a perfect day swimming with dolphins, snorkeling with rays and tropical fish, hand-feeding exotic birds, and relaxing on pristine beaches … and that’s just the beginning.

Opening later this summer at Discovery Cove is Freshwater Oasis, where guests can wade, relax and come face-to-face with new animals -- playful otters and curious marmosets. Plus, with unlimited admission to SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica for 14 consecutive days, guests have the ultimate flexibility to live the 3D 360 journey at TurtleTrek, SeaWorld’s newest attraction, and then cool off at Aquatica, a one-of-a-kind waterpark that immerses them in the playfulness of the sea.

Starting at $229, Dolphin Swim Day Resort Packages at Discovery Cove now include:

Reserved dolphin experience
Unlimited access to signature experiences including: The Grand Reef, free-flight Explorer’s Aviary, Serenity Bay, Wind-Away River and coming soon Freshwater Oasis

Freshly prepared breakfast and lunch plus snacks throughout the day
Beverages all day long, including sodas, water and alcoholic drinks

All swim gear (mask, snorkel, and swim vest or wetsuit), towels, locker, sunscreen and other first-class amenities

All day self-parking at Discovery Cove

A complimentary photo portrait of guest and their party upon entry to park

A pass for 14 consecutive days of unlimited admission to SeaWorld and Aquatica in Orlando before, during or after Discovery Cove visit.

Guests that have already booked Discovery Cove reservations on or after May 22 and who have selected SeaWorld Orlando or Aquatica with their reservation will automatically have access to both parks during their vacation. For reservations and to learn more, visit DiscoveryCove.com or call 1-877-434-7268."

Giveaway: Stanley Steemer

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Mon, 07 May 2012 21:39:00 +0000

My house has carpet in it... and to be honest, cleaning the carpet is one of my least favorite chores to do. Seriously, it's a lot of work and takes forever.

I'm more of a fan of having someone else do it for me.

Enter Stanley Steemer.

You've seen their commercials with the catchy jingle, right?

They provide a great service to busy moms like me. All I have to do is call them up (after checking their website for specials, which they always have), schedule a time, pick up my floors and the rest is in their hands.

They do a great job too.

Some facts about Stanley Steemer:

"Not just for carpet cleaning, Stanley Steemer’s expertise extends to hardwood, tile, air ducts, water damage restoration, and more!
Stanley Steemer’s proprietary equipment and cleaning processes remove more than 98% of dry soil from floors
With over 70 branches and 220 franchise locations in 48 states, Stanley Steemer services 95% of the country"

Here's a recent commercial:

<a href="http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/4N2xssjPIN0?rel=0">http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/4N2xssjPIN0?rel=0</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica; ">" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>

Want to get your carpets ready for company, a party, your own sanity?

I've got a $100 gift certificate from Stanely Steemer to get your carpets (or floors) cleaned.

How freakin' cool, huh?

All I need you to do is tell me your carpet woes and why you need them cleaned.

Easy!

This contest is open to US residents and will be live until May 21, 2012.

Good Luck!

“Disclosure: The gift certificate, information, and additional gift pack have been provided by Stanley Steemer through MyBlogSpark.”

Giveaway: Big G Curvy Straws

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Mon, 07 May 2012 21:31:00 +0000

When I was a kid, I loved nothing more than getting a prize in my cereal box. I didn't get many toys growing up, so that cereal box toy was treasured.

The other day I was commenting that you never really see toys in cereal boxes anymore and I dislike that my kid doesn't get to experience the kind of joy I did.

My favorite Big G cereal's are coming out with a new toy to find in your favorite cereal boxes, Curvy Straws!

Curvy straws are cute straws that your kids can slurp the milk out of your cereal bowl once you are done (seriously, who doesn't do this?)

My girls are crazy about their straws (We have the rabbit from Trix and the rabbit looking thing from Cocoa Puffs... he is a rabbit, right?) and I always make sure to have them on hand when we have breakfast.

My friends over at MyBlogSpark recently sent me a package with a Big G cereal and more curvy straws to play with.

Want to get some of your own curvy straws?

I've got a prize pack for a lucky reader.

Your prize pack will contain:

1 box of a participating Big G cereal
1 Curvy Straw
1 ‘spilt’ milk bowl
2 glow cups
2 tangle toys

Just tell me your favorite (or your kid's) cereal.

Easy!

This giveaway is open until May 21, 2012 and is open to US residents only.

“Disclosure: The prize pack, information, and giveaway have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark.”

Orlando Events: Food Revolution Day!

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Fri, 04 May 2012 22:57:00 +0000

I got this press release and had to share with you.

"JAMIE OLIVER FOUNDATION LAUNCHES INAUGURAL FOOD REVOLUTION DAY

Celebrate Food Revolution Day Orlando with Free Family Urban Farm Tours

Winter Park Harvest Festival, Edible Orlando magazine, Slow Food Orlando and Livepretty.com Combine Efforts in First-Ever Day to Stand Up for Real Food

WHAT:

The Jamie Oliver Foundation is launching its first-ever Food Revolution Day, a global day of action to inspire, educate, and empower people everywhere to stand up for real food. Thousands of people worldwide will participate in events to raise awareness on preventing diet-related diseases, and to arm people with the knowledge and tools to make healthier food choices.

Here in Orlando, the Winter Park Harvest Festival, Edible Orlando, Slow Food Orlando and Livepretty.com have combined efforts for Food Revolution Day Orlando featuring Family Urban Farm Tours where attendees can:

· Learn about how the Urban Farm was developed and thrives, and tips and tricks you can use in your own garden.

· Enjoy a seasonal collard greens cooking demonstration and cook-off featuring top regional foodies and chefs - Dawn Viola, Elisa Scarpa and Sarah Cahill.

· Bring the family to enjoy children's art & planting activities, and family entertainment provided by Florida Hospital's Healthy 100 and Mission: FIT Possible programs.

· Enter a food-lovers raffle featuring prizes from Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando, Whole Foods Market Winter Park, the Audubon Park Community Market, Ethos Vegan Kitchen and The Spice & Tea Exchange to support Florida schools through The Jamie Oliver Foundation food education box project.

WHEN:

Saturday, May 19, 2012,

Tours start at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12 p.m.

WHERE:

Winter Park Urban Farm

1650 Pine Ave.

Winter Park, FL 32789

Park and play in nearby Phelps Park. Street parking is also available on the north side of Pine and Elm.

COST:

Free

Raffle tickets available for $3 each the day of the event.

RSVP:

Space is limited, so please register to attend online at livepretty.com/foodrevorlando

WHY:

The majority of the world’s population is more likely to die from obesity than from hunger. In fact, in America, more people die from diet-related diseases every year than drugs, alcohol and war combined. Food Revolution Day aims to empower people to make healthier food choices that lead to healthier lives. One hundred percent of Food Revolution Day net funds raised will go to support food education projects for both children and adults through the Jamie Oliver Foundation in the U.S., UK and Australia.

WHO:

For more information about Food Revolution Day, visit foodrevolutionday .com.

Food Revolution Day Orlando is hosted by:

The Winter Park Harvest Festival, a project of A Local Folkus, is a day long event focused on connecting the grass-roots with the deep-roots of our local food-shed by celebrating our local farmers, gardeners, entrepreneurs and non-profits. Visit winterparkharvestfestival.com for more information.

Edible Orlando is a quarterly magazine that celebrates the foods, farmers and chefs of Central Florida and its beaches. Visit edibleorlando.com for more information.

Slow Food Orlando is a chapter of Slow Food USA, a non-profit educational organization dedicated to supporting and celebrating the food traditions of North America through programs and activities dedicated to Taste Education, Defending Biodiversity and Building Food Communities. Visit slowfoodusa.org for more information.

LivePretty.com is an Orlando-based lifestyle blog dedicated to family, food, and entertaining, with a special focus on sharing both the extraordinary and everyday moments of our lives. "

Disney & Louboutin Together For-Evah!

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:41:00 +0000

I am a shoe lover... to the core. I buy way too many pairs of shoes but hey, we all have to have a hobby, right?

I love Louboutin's and have coveted a pair since I can remember and I love Disney so when I heard Christian Louboutin was collaborating with Disney. I had to share the news.

Here's the latest press release (no pictures of the shoes, yet!)

"There is magic in make believe!

DISNEY & WORLD-RENOWNED SHOE DESIGNER CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN COME TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE THE MAGIC BEHIND ONE OF THE

GREATEST FAIRYTALES OF ALL TIME…CINDERELLA

LONDON, UK, April 26, 2012 – The ultimate fairytale that has represented, for centuries, the definitive expression of timeless love, transformation, the fulfillment of a dream come true and, above all, the happily ever after, comes alive in 2012 as The Walt Disney Studios and famed red-sole designer Christian Louboutin, come together to celebrate the magic and inspiration behind of one of the greatest fairytales of all time, Disney’s “Cinderella.”

Louboutin, whose designs are the epitome of style, power, femininity and elegance, was invited by Disney to bring “Cinderella” to life with a fashion forward twist. As part of this collaboration, Louboutin will design a “Cinderella” slipper putting his own magic touch on the world’s most famous pair of shoes. This announcement precedes Louboutin’s 20^th Anniversary retrospective exhibition at the London Design Museum and the and the global release of Disney’s animated classic masterpiece “Cinderella” Diamond Edition on Blu-rayÔ coming to market this Fall.

“Isn’t it everyone’s dream, to once in your life part of a fairy tale? Walt Disney Studios gave me a wonderful opportunity to live this magical moment. I have been so lucky to have crossed paths with Cinderella, an icon who is so emblematic to the shoe world as well as the dream world.”

- Christian Louboutin

The designer’s mesmerizing creations are full of whimsy and glamour and his limitless imagination has helped him turn his dreams to reality and help women all over the world over feel like princesses.

“I think we have made the fairy tale fashionable again. We can translate the ancient fairy tale into its modern equivalent without losing the lovely patina and the savor of its once-upon-a-time quality.”

- Walt Disney

Specific details on the collaboration will be formally shared in early July. To stay informed on “Cinderella” and this collaboration, please continue to visit us at www.Facebook.com/Cinderella.

About Cinderella:

Everyone orders Cinderella around: her cruel stepmother, her awful stepsisters -- even the big clock in the church tower tells her when to start another day of drudgery. But they can't stop her from dreaming, and Cinderella has faith that someday her wishes will come true. When an invitation to the royal ball arrives, Cinderella is sure her time has come -- until her stepsisters, with the encouragement of Lady Tremaine, tear her gown to shreds. Just when Cinderella believes all is lost, her Fairy Godmother appears, and with a wave of her wand and “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo,” transforms an ordinary pumpkin into a magnificent coach and Cinderella’s rags into a gorgeous gown, then sends her off to the Royal Ball. But Cinderella’s enchanted evening must end when the spell is broken at midnight. It will take the help of her daring animal mice friends and a perfect fit into a glass slipper to create the ultimate fairy tale ending.

About Christian Louboutin:

French designer, Christian Louboutin’s red soles have stamped an inimitable mark on the world of fashion and shoe making over the past twenty years. The innovation and imagination behind Louboutin’s mesmerizing shoes and his utter devotion to women have established him as one of the world’s most visionary and important shoemakers. Born in Paris and raised by his mother and three sisters, the designer credits this feminine environment as the inspiration for much of his work. Louboutin’s unmistakable red soles, his inventive designs and exceptional craftsmanship have gained him a loyal following from some of the world’s most stylish women. Today, the Louboutin brand can be found in 54 countries worldwide with 55 jewel box boutiques proudly displaying his red sole creations for women and men as well as a collection of handbags and small leather goods.

About The Walt Disney Studios:

For more than 85 years, The Walt Disney Studios has been the foundation on which The Walt Disney Company wasbuilt. Today, the Studio brings quality movies, music and stage plays to consumers throughout the world. Feature films are released under the following banners: Disney, including Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios; Disneynature; Marvel Studios; and Touchstone Pictures, the banner under which live-action films from DreamWorks Studios are distributed. The Disney Music Group encompasses the Walt Disney Records and Hollywood Records labels, as well as Disney Music Publishing. The Disney Theatrical Group produces and licenses live events, including Disney on Broadway, Disney On Ice and Disney Live!. "

Disney: Brave "Families Legend" Trailer

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 18:05:00 +0000

I love nothing more than a bad-ass female character.

Disney has hit the mark again with Brave's Merida.

:)

Enjoy the latest trailer.

Sea World & Busch Gardens Rids The Plastic

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:43:00 +0000

I get a lot of press releases in my inbox every day... lots.

Occasionally, one will catch my eye and I want to share it with you. Since I love Sea World, we're there all the time and I love what they are doing here. I wanted to share.

From a press release (word for word):

"SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Parks Say Good-bye to Plastic Bags

-- Precedent-setting Move Keeps 4 Million Plastic Bags Out of Landfills Annually --

Orlando, Fla. (April 25, 2012) – Paper or plastic? Soon there will be just one choice at the 10 theme parks of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment -- paper -- as the company eliminates plastic shopping bags within the next year. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment will be the largest theme park operator to make this commitment.

Park gift shops will offer paper bags made from 100 percent recycled paper or guests can choose to purchase reusable bags.

“This is a significant change for our company, one we hope will provide a model for our industry overall,” said Jim Atchison, President and Chief Executive Officer of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “Eliminating plastic bags is an important statement about our commitment to the environment, as well as the need to help protect marine animals from debris. It also allows our guests to play a direct part in making a difference on our planet.”

This move will keep an estimated 4 million plastic bags from entering landfills and the environment each year. Approximately 1.4 billion tons of trash, including plastic bags, enters the ocean annually. Wildlife such as endangered sea turtles often mistake plastic bags for jellyfish, one of their favorite foods.

The company began exploring the concept at SeaWorld San Diego in 2011, when the park discontinued the use of plastic gift bags to mark the opening of its new Turtle Reef attraction. SeaWorld Orlando is eliminating the bags this month in conjunction with the opening of its new attraction, TurtleTrek.

Opening April 27, TurtleTrek combines naturalistic habitats (sea turtles and manatees) with the world’s first 3-D, 360-degree dome theater film. The film immerses guests in a sea turtle’s extraordinary journey.

Another Refreshing…and Renewable Change:

Also adding to the ways park guests can consume responsibly, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment and The Coca-Cola Company introduced paper cups for guests made with 85 percent renewable resources as part of a new 10-year partnership. Guests use more than 13 million paper cups each year throughout the 10 parks."

Sick, again... seriously.

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:15:00 +0000

When Roo started preschool last year, people warned me that she would get sick a lot. It's natural because her body wasn't used to so many germs and her immune system would have to adapt and build up.

Well, build up we have done.

Seriously.

My daughters (and myself) have been so sick since she started school. We spent the first two months of this year passing colds and flus back and forth. We had a brief reprieve for a few weeks but now we're back to being sick again.

It started with a fever in Roo, then developed into wheezing. Now Turtle has a fever and I have a horrible cough.

I'm so tired of being sick and so tired of sick babies. I feel so bad for them when they are sick, especially with Roo because of her heart conditions, she can't have any sort of stimulant. That means she can have honey for a sore throat and a humidifier for her cough.

That's it.

Nothing else.

Poor kid coughed so much the other night she threw up everywhere.

All I do really do is cuddling her and pump her full of fluids (not literally, people) and give her lots of love.

Turtle is easy when she's sick, just turn on Dora the Explorer and she's happy as a clam.

Now if only I could get someone to play bad reality tv for me, bring me cold orange juice and rub my temples.

That would make being sick so much easier... Don't ya' think?

Visit Orlando in May!

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 04:01:00 +0000

I got this press release from the wonderful people of Visit Orlando and since I live in Central Florida and it is my hometown, I love to share information that they pass along to me.

From the latest press release (word for word):

"Life is Good in Orlando this May

Visit Orlando and Life is good® Partner for Weekend of Play to BringSmiles to Children

Orlando, FL, April 17, 2012 - Life is good in Orlando this May. Visit Orlando is teaming up with Life is good®, the lifestyle apparel brand, to host a series of events and activities in Orlando to benefit children. Highlighting the weekend is a "Day of Play," that includes the I-Drive 5k Race on May 12. Attendees can take advantage of a special "Life is good in Orlando" hotel package, which includes a special rate at the Rosen Shingle Creek and a variety of special amenities.

The I-Drive 5k Race at Pointe Orlando is followed by a "Day of Play," where families can partake in classic backyard games like bean bag toss and hula hoop contests, listen to music and enjoy specials at area stores. Funds raised from the race will benefit Life is good Playmakers, which provides training and support to frontline child care professionals dedicated to helping children overcome poverty, violence and illness so that they can lead healthier, more joyful lives, and the YMCA Aquatic Family Center's "Learn to Swim" Scholarship Fund. The basic race cost begins at $24, but for an additional fee, participants can receive a one-of-a-kind commemorative Life is good race shirt with the proceeds supporting Life is good Playmakers. The “Day of Play” is a free event and participation in the 5k is not required.

For those coming to Orlando for the weekend events, a special "Life is good in Orlando" hotel package is available at Rosen Shingle Creek:

$175 per night in a luxury deluxe guest room
Breakfast buffet for two at Cafe Osceola
Complimentary self-parking and WiFi
25% off golf and spa services
Two exclusive Life is good in Orlando t-shirts

A portion of the package price benefits Life is good Playmakers. To book, call 866-996-9939 and ask for the "Life is good" package or go to VisitOrlando.com/community.

"As two organizations that make people smile, Visit Orlando and Life is good are creating events that will be fun for the entire family," said Gary Sain, Visit Orlando president and CEO. "We’re thrilled to be partnering with Life is Good for the ultimate play date for fans and friends to enjoy, while also supporting a wonderful cause."

"We're looking forward to making many new friends in Orlando, and what better way to make new friends than to play together?" said Steve Gross, Chief Playmaker of the Life is good Kids Foundation. "We're excited about the fun events that our partners at Visit Orlando have put together for this Day of Play and hope that all of our friends - both old and new - come to Orlando to have a great time and support a great cause — helping kids overcome poverty, violence and illness."

To register for the race, visit trackshack.com.

For more information about vacation experiences in Orlando, to order a complimentary vacation planning kit that includes a comprehensive Official Vacation Guide and Orlando Magicard^TMor to purchase discount attraction tickets, visitors can log onto Orlando's official Website at VisitOrlando.com or call an Official Travel Counselor at 1-800-551-0181 (United States and Canada) or 407-363-5872. For real time updates, follow Visit Orlando on Twitter at twitter.com/VisitOrlando or Facebook at facebook.com/VisitOrlando. While in Orlando, visitors may stop by the Official Visitor Center located at 8723 International Drive, at the southeast corner of International Drive and Austrian Row. The Official Visitor Center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (closes at 4 p.m. on Thanksgiving, Dec. 24 and Dec. 31 and is closed Dec. 25).

About the Life is good CompanyThe Life is good Company, based in Boston, MA, spreads a fresh outlook on life with its colorful collection of apparel and accessories and through its social mission to help kids overcome life-threatening challenges. For more information on Life is good, please visit http://www.lifeisgood.com/.

About the Life is good Kids FoundationThe Life is good Kids Foundation is an accredited 501(c)(3) public charity whose mission is to help kids overcome poverty, violence and illness. Through its action arm, the Life is good Playmakers, it provides training and support to the adults dedicated to caring for these children so that all involved lead healthier, more joyful lives. More than $8 million has been raised to date for children in need, principally through Life is good Festivals and the 100% of profits that The Life is good Company donates to the Foundation from nationwide sales of select products. For more information, visit www.lifeisgood.com/playmakers.

Life is good® is a registered trademark of The Life is good Company"

Enjoy!

Wordless Wednesday: Heaven on Earth

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 17:50:00 +0000

The 2013 Ford Edge with Ecoboost

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 04:01:00 +0000

Having two kids means that I travel with tons of stuff… even if I’m just taking the girls to school. I need to pack diapers, wipes, extra clothes, binkies, snacks, cups, etc etc. To be honest, it’s ridiculous.

Small vehicles and I just don’t mix.

Or small vehicles and my children don’t mix.

Two weeks ago I had the chance to test-drive a 2013 Ford Edge with EcoBoost.

The first thing that struck me about the Edge is that it’s pretty and then I thought that the trunk space looked small, but upon opening the rear hatch I discovered that it’s an illusion. The trunk space in the back is plenty, especially for all the gear I haul.

The next thing that startled me was that it’s keyless. All I needed to have was the key fob and I pressed the button and up it would start. If I was even near the vehicle and had the key in my purse, all I needed to do was pull the latch for the door and it would unlock. This means that I said tons of time that I am usually digging out my keys from my overloaded purse.

The key fob also comes with the lovely rear hatch button, meaning all I need to do was click it twice and it would magically open... and I won't lie, I did get some giggles out of pushing the button when my husband would just happen to be wandering past the tailgate.

The interior of the Edge was clean and smooth. The leather seats were buttery soft and the most delicious brown and black mix. The seats had the ability to heat your tush and the leather wrapping on the steering wheel was comfortable. The console was deep enough to toss water bottles, iPods, cell phones, whatever into it. The only problem I found with the console was that it came with two cup holders, but if you had two cups in the cup holders, you had to toss your items you like to keep close at hand under the dash in this awkward storage area and to be honest, I forgot my items once I put them there.

The dash was beautiful and well-illuminated at night and the touchscreen system was packed full of information.

Seriously, I could check the radar to see if any storms were approaching as well as see what the gas prices in my area were... Yes, seriously. It came in handy when I wanted to save a few pennies on my fill up.

I wasn’t too crazy about the navigation system, it seemed to take me on the scenic route every time I needed directions and would take me way out of the way. There was no way to enter a destination if the car was moving and my passenger was trying to get information for me. The speaking ability where you told the car where you needed to go was messy and didn’t understand what we were asking of it. It would’ve been nice if it had a calling feature that connected you to an agent that could download any directions you needed.

The Edge is packed with a lot of power under the hood as well, it was able to get up and go quite nicely and when traveling on the highway, the passing ability was wonderful. The ride was truly smooth and comfortable. The gas mileage of the Edge was nice, it averaged about 22 miles per gallon, as long as I didn’t push the engine all the time. If I was heavy-footed, the mph dropped significantly.

Overall, the 2013 Ford Edge was a wonderful ride. I loved the space, the styling, and the economical side to it. I would recommend this car to a lot of friends in the market for a cross-over SUV.

The 2013 Ford Edge in Pictures

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 20:28:00 +0000

A Struggle

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 20:20:00 +0000

Sometimes you come to a point in your life where you wonder what the heck you are really doing with your life.

And I'm sure you've noticed that my posts have been really few and far between... I'm sorry for that, but my real life has gotten in the way and I'm dealing with so much on my plate.

I'm struggling to find the time and the passion to sit at the computer at the end of the day and write about the craziness that my life has become.

It's so much easier to go to the beach or splash around in the kiddie pool.

I have commitments here on my blog, so I'm not giving it up. I'm just trying to find that spark that you, my dear readers, deserve.

You don't want to come here and read crap.

So just be patient with me while I figure this all out.

Thanks. :)

Review: Hop

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 17:41:00 +0000

Roo is at an age where she is in charge of picking all the movies we watch. She feels so proud and so grown up to have this task.

Having Roo pick the movies means we will undoubtedly be watching a movie with animals in it.

The latest movie to hit our DVD player has been Hop.

And it came just in time for Easter.

Hop is the story of the bunny that should have been the Easter Bunny… until he ran away to Hollywood.

Voiced by Russell Brand, E.B. just can’t bring himself to live up to his father’s name. He wants nothing more than to play the drums and be free. When E.B. lands in Hollywood, he meets Fred, who literally runs him over with his car.

From the Universal Pictures press release: “Blending state-of-the-art animation with live action, Hop tells the comic tale of Fred, an out-of-work slacker who accidentally injures the Easter Bunny and must take him in as he recovers. As Fred struggles with the world's worst house guest, both will learn what it takes to finally grow up.”

The movie is super cute and E.B. is very likeable. Roo and Turtle loved it and have watched it a billion times since we received it.

Hop is available to purchase now.

I received a copy of HOP and a special screening package. All opinions in this post are 100% my own. Please see my full disclosure policy for more information.

The Young Avengers

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 19:30:00 +0000

I'm not normally one for big budget action movies, but the Avengers are my interest peaked and I cannot wait for it to come out on movie theaters.

And when I saw this Target commercial, Young Avengers, I had to share it with you.

Spring Fun: Busch Gardens

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 21:18:00 +0000

Animals are a big thing here at our house.

My daughters are constantly toting around various stuffed animals, cuddling them and tended to their pretend boo-boos.

Seeing these animals up close and personnel send them overboard and there's squeals and giggles abound.

On Roo's spring break, we packed up the Edge, grabbed our favorite cousin and headed on down to Tampa Bay to spy on the animals at Busch Gardens.

It was simply a wonderful day.

Busch Gardens is truly a wonderful theme park to visit. I like it because there's so many animals to view and you don't have to wait in line to see them! We wandered around aimlessly for hours and when we wanted to ride a ride, we did so and moved on.

And a wonderful bonus, the weather was perfect.

We stopped by the brand new animal care center, gawked at the hippos, rode the serengeti express (where we saw the two new baby giraffes and got an up close and personal view of the rhinos!). My crazy cousin rode the Sheikra and I think she's crazy, but she loved it.

We spent a ton of time at Sesame Street Safari of Fun. We soaked ourselves at the splash pad, climbed all the rope bridges, bounced on the jumpy thing and saw Abby!

It truly was a wonderful trip, well worth the drive plus you never feel like you're overcrowded with people. It's all spaced out well so you don't feel like you're on top of people and people aren't on top of you.

You can find out more information about Busch Gardens by visiting their website.

I received comp tickets for this review. All opinions in this post are 100% my own. Please see my full disclosure policy for more information.

Allergies, not love, is in the air.

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:41:00 +0000

I don't know about where you live, but in Florida allergies is all everyone can talk about.

It's in the air and it's driving everyone crazy.

Especially me.

Not only do I suffer from allergies (damn you, pollen!), my other half does and my youngest (Turtle) has the worst runny nose I've ever seen.

At least Roo has been saved the irritations that come along with allergies (except for allergy to penicillin).

And just in time for allergy season (which sometimes lasts year round in warm Florida), I've been selected to be a part of the Children's Claritin Mom Crew!

This means that I'll get to spread the news to you about the products from Claritin just for kids. Like did you know that "only Children's Claritin provides 24-hour non-drowsy allergy relief. Plus, it is the #1 Pediatrician Recommended Non-Drowsy Allergy Brand"

I'll be keeping you up to date on the allergy information, but you can also check out the Claritin Facebook page for even more facts and fun stuff.

Stay tuned!

"As a member of the Children’s Claritin Mom Crew, I receive product samples and promotional items to share and use as I see fit. No monetary compensation has taken place and any opinions expressed by me are honest and reflect my actual experience."

Wordless Wednesday: I swoon for this face

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 23:42:00 +0000

Busy as can bee...

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 17:54:00 +0000

This past week has been insane... I'm sure you've noticed my lack of blogging and I have a good excuse. I promise I do.

It was Spring Break.

And I was bound and determined to make it amazing for my girls.

So I did.

With the help of Ford.

We were lucky enough to be able to test out a 2013 Ford Edge Limited (with Eco Boost!) so we put it to good use. We hit the park, the community pool, Busch Gardens (review to come), the beach, Sea World, the Wildlife Preserve and the kiddie pool in our front yard.

As you can see, we were all over the state.

And the drive was amazing (a complete review with photos is coming up later this week) and the EcoBoost helped save us money in gas.

Here's peek of the car:

More to come this week, I promise!

Greetings from the Fairy Hobmother!

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 13:10:00 +0000

I'm sure you've heard the whispers, maybe you've even seen the magic and I'm here to tell you, it's not rumors. The Fairy Hobmother exists!

The Fairy Hobmother flitters around on the internet and visits bloggers and their websites and grants them with a surprise.

She visited me this morning and asked if I would share the news of Appliances Online, a website that specializes in delivering appliances direct to your door in the United Kingdom.

She also whispered in my ear that she may grant some fairy dust on one of my readers, all they need to do is leave a comment on this post.

Worth a shot, huh?

Worked for me!

Check out Appliances Online, leave me a comment and maybe you'll get lucky.

I received compensation for this post. All opinions in this post are 100% my own. Please see my full disclosure policy for more information.

MyBlogSpark: Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 15:04:00 +0000

I have to be honest with you, I was really hesitant to try out the Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles. It was all because of the past reviews I had read about the formula. But, when I read that they had reformulated the bubbles to make sure it didn't stain I agreed to test them out.

Again, I'll be honest with you: I was super nervous to play with them.

Moms despise stains in the laundry and the mess that they make of our lives... well, at least I do.

When it was time to test out the new Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles, I dressed my kids in "play" clothes and we set off outside to have some fun.

The girls loved the colored bubbles and the hand crank bubble machine (kid powered, genius!) gave them lots of enjoyment.

Again, I won't lie I freaked out when I saw the bubbles pop on their skin, but I relax when I was able to just wipe the color off their skin no problem.

Roo, of course, managed to get the yellow bubbles all over her play shirt and I have to report to you, that it did not wash out. So remember to wear play clothes that you don't care about when you play with these bubbles.

Here are the guidelines straight from Crayola when playing with the Outdoor Colored Bubbles:

"

Dress for Mess. Wear washable play clothes and shoes. It’s best to not wear suede, leather or any other material that can’t be washed.
Play Outside. An open grassy area is best away from new concrete, decks and porous surfaces like marble. Don’t use at formal events like weddings.
Rub skin to remove color.
Launder clothes promptly with water and detergent. Repeat washing may be needed.
Hose off outdoor surfaces like sidewalks and driveways to wash away color. "

Overall, the girls loved Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles. It is the perfect summertime activity for us.

And once I calmed down, I enjoyed them too.

We spent a good hour blowing bubbles everywhere (even all over our white daisies in the garden).

Wanna try out the new formula?

I've got a Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles Prize Pack to giveaway.

Your prize pack will include:

One Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles 3-pack
One Bubble Launcher

All you need to do to enter to win is tell me what your favorite summertime activity is.

This giveaway is open to US residents and will remain open until March 31, 2012.

Disclosure: The Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles product information and gift packs have been provided by Crayola through MyBlogSpark.

Perfection

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 14:42:00 +0000

You know that moment when the seasons shift and you just know that summer is approaching?

It's here in Florida.

The temperatures are rising, the sky is blue as can be and I want nothing more than to be at the beach every day of the week.

I love this time of year here.

It's also that blissful time of year when you can spend hours upon hours outside doing various fun things (splashing in the kiddie pool, chasing chickens and goats or just building sand castles in the riding ring) and you don't break a sweat but you get a gorgeous tan.

The 95+ degree heat will quickly approach but we don't think about that right now. For now, we just soak in the perfection and take as many pictures as possible,

Next week is Spring Break for my daughter so we have tons planned. Theme parks, beaches, parks and more are on our list of things to do and I for one cannot be happier about the breakneck pace that we've set for ourselves.

*sigh*

I really don't think it's gets any better than this.