Confessions of a Stay-At-Home Mom

Educational Gifts For Kids from ThinkFun (and Bonus Gift Ideas!)

2017-11-30T16:30:00.001-05:00

* This post contains affiliate links.

As my kids get older, I'm less and less eager to get them "stuff." You know what I mean: those random trendy gifts that get played with twice before being forgotten forever. Those cheap toys that break immediately upon opening.

I'm also intrigued that as my girls get older, they are less and less inclined toward stuff. Thanks to the era of Netflix and Apple TV, they are rarely in front of commercials. Which means they aren't aware or interested in the millions of lackluster toys that the media bombards them with. I appreciate that they don't have the "gimmies" or looking for the next big thing just because.

Often, when asked about gifts, my girls resort to 3 simple categories: books, crafts and games. I absolutely love this! As you may recall, Hubby is an English teacher, so there is no limit on the amount of books that are allowed to be brought into our home. Crafts are a fun and creative way to spend time. Sometimes we even just get them each a ream of computer paper and a fresh pack of colored pencils and they are good to go!

In recent years, we've really embraced having Family Game Night. The girls love the classics, but are always eager to try something new. Which is why I've really fallen in love with ThinkFun games. They are always putting out new and intriguing products, all of which are steeped in education.

We had a blast last year with a few of their new games, and this year is no exception. Make sure to add these games to your Wish List!

Roller Coaster Challenge

In this thrilling engineering challenge, players get to build their very own roller coasters. Start by choosing a challenge card and setting up the pieces to match. Then, players use the remaining pieces to build a working roller coaster that meets the build conditions on their challenge card. Roller Coaster Challenge incorporates elements of a logic puzzle, while also allowing for the creativity that stems from free-form building. Once you have solved each challenge, you get to watch a real coaster car glide down the track, complete with dips, curves, and loops! Roller Coaster Challenge earned American Specialty Toy Retailer Association’s (ASTRA) Best Toys for Kids Award and National Parenting Products Award! (Ages 6+)

Available on Amazon - $29.99

//CODE: Rover Control

Prepared for a programming space mission? In this 40-challenge game two Rovers have been sent to explore Mars. The trouble is, the Rovers are programmed to travel on color and most of the pathways were left colorless in a dust storm. You’ll need to call on your critical thinking skills to correctly color the pathways so the Rovers stay on course. Challenges introduce “decision points,” “loops,” and “increment instructions” as you progress--all advanced computational skills that are delicately embedded into a fun play experience and will have you thinking like a true programmer. (Ages 8+)
Available on Amazon - $14.99

Color Cube Sudoku

Flip and rearrange all 9 Color Cubes on the 3 x 3 tray until each color appears once in every row and column. It will take more than a couple flips of a cube to master this brilliant Sudoku puzzle. Once you’ve conquered the traditional Sudoku pattern, give your brain a real workout with our fun Bonus Challenges! Color Cube Sudoku is a Parents’ Choice Gold Award winner and earned finalist status in American Specialty Toy Retailer Association’s (ASTRA) Best Toys for Kids! (Ages 8+)
Available on Amazon - $19.99

Other gift ideas

Steph's Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide

Gifts for Music Lovers: Dylan, Simon and Garfunkel, Oh My!

Fit and Fresh Gifts for Women

Gifts to Encourage Learning and Creativity

Gifts for Kids Who Love to Code

Sherlock Fan Gift Guide

Breaking Bad Fan Gift Guide

New Girl Fan Gift Guide

American Made Gift Guide for Guys

Gifts for Moms Who Run

Gift Guide for Dudes

Hope you and yours have a happy holiday!

Mirror Maze: Now Open at the Franklin Institute! {GIVEAWAY!}

2017-07-01T10:46:00.000-04:00

So, summer is here. And while I was so done with making lunches, waking irritated sleepy children and running to get to the bus stop on time just a few weeks ago, I've reached that point in the summer where I begin eyeing up when the next school year begins.

Don't get me wrong: I love the chance for my girls to relax and take a break from the stress of school over the summer. What I don't like? The squabbling and bickering and the incessant proclamations of boredom that I encounter each day. (How are you bored?! We have an entire yard, neighbor kids, camps and a room dedicated solely to your toys at your disposal?! GO OUTSIDE ALREADY).

I may be slightly hyperbolic here. But one true concern I have is the lack of learning that often happens during the summer. Do I want my kids to relax? Absolutely? But do I want them to continue to learn, engage, explore and discover? 100%.

So I am absolutely STOKED by the Franklin Institute's new exhibit, Mirror Maze: Numbers in Nature.

The Franklin Institute shares:

Explore the mathematical patterns of the natural world at Mirror Maze: Numbers in Nature! From the nested spirals of a sunflower’s seeds to the ridges of a majestic mountain range, this stunning interactive exhibit provides an introduction to patterns and how math surrounds us every day. Lose yourself in an elaborate mirror maze—the stunning centerpiece of the exhibit—and challenge yourself to discover how geometry, tessellations, and repetitions can unlock the secrets of the world around you.

THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT MY KIDS NEED: learning but the sneaky kind where it's a ton of fun and they don't even realize they are learning stuff. #ParentingWin.

We're heading there this month to check out this exhibit (stay tuned: I'll report back here on the blog and share our experience on social media!), but figured you might want to get some sneaky learning in too.

SO.

The kind people of Franklin Institute have offered to give one of my dear readers a family 4 pack of tickets to the Mirror Maze Exhibit (a $100 value!). Enter the giveaway below to win!

If you are anxious to get your learn on immediately, here's a code to get $3.00 off your daytime tickets. Just use promo code MMYBLOG* to receive $3.00 off up to 4 adult, daytime tickets to A Mirror Maze: Numbers in Nature. To redeem the code, contact us 215-448-1200 or visit fi.edu.

*$3 off Daytime Adult Admission tickets to A Mirror Maze: Numbers in Nature. Limit 4 tickets per person. Includes General Admission to The Franklin Institute. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Upgrades available on-site for IMAX and 3D Theater. Redeemable online or over the phone. Processing fees

The Mirror Maze: Numbers in Nature exhibit runs through September 4, 2017.

Visit the Franklin Institute on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The Franklin Institute is located at 222 North 20th Street in Philadelphia.

Disclosure: The Franklin Institute provided tickets to Mirror Maze in exchange for this post. All opinions are 100% my own.

GIVEAWAY

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5 Reasons Why You CANNOT MISS "The Light Princess" at Arden Theatre Company!

2017-05-05T13:43:00.002-04:00

Have you ever been so swept up in a play that it was hard to come back to reality? Maybe the characters were so endearing or the music was so catchy or the set was so mesmerizing, but living in the world of that play for 2 acts was a delight you weren't ready to give up. Sometimes you have the fortune of being in the audience of a production that truly reaches your heart in a way you weren't quite prepared for.

The setting for our recent visit to our fave local theatre, Arden Theatre Company, was perfection: blue skies, fluffy clouds and a warm breeze that brought Philadelphia to life the way beautiful spring days have a habit of doing. My girls woke up chipper (which, believe me, is a smaller miracle in and of itself), and we hit little traffic on our drive in. Could I be dreaming?

We arrived at Arden and found that we'd be experiencing the show on the Arcadia Stage, which was upstairs and new to us. My family is quite fond of the main F. Otto Haas Stage, but it is always a treat to see how a production plays out (pun intended) in a different setting.

Once everyone arrived, it was time for the show to begin. And from the moment Tony Lawton came on stage as George MacDonald to weave the ages-old tale, I was completely taken in by the world of The Light Princess.

To say that we enjoyed ourselves would be an understatement. I have enjoyed every show that I've had the privilege of seeing at Arden, but this may be one of my favorites. I'll get into my reasons why in just a moment. But The Light Princess is just the perfect storm of actors, set design, music and writing. I loved every second of it, as did my girls. There was so much giggling at the silliness and banter on stage, as well as seriousness during the heartfelt moments (quite a feat in a theatre filled with elementary-aged kiddos!).

Friends? Hear me now: this is a show you do not want to miss. If you're still unconvinced, here are 5 compelling reasons to get your tickets now (pssst: you also have until Monday to enter to win a family 4-pack, too!):

The Arcadia Stage

This stage is somewhat smaller if you are used to the main stage downstairs. But I loved the intimacy and how the cast used the room (aisles and all!) to make us all a part of the story. The feel of the stage is more casual, which is actually something I welcome with kids. The best part is that there's really no bad seat in the house. In such a small room, everyone has a great view, and the front row is truly front and center.

Old Story, New Digs

I have a special place in my heart for George MacDonald's The Light Princess, as it is a story Hubby used to read the girls when they were small. He is such a fun writer, so it is fitting that someone as talented as Tony Lawton took on writing the Arden adaptation. Tony did an amazing job making the story relatable and "digestable"for the young audience, as well as peppering in a lot of silliness and humor to a story that has some dark and worrisome plot points.

The Cast

The cast. OH, the cast! I couldn't have imagined better actors for each part, some of which had double duty on dual roles. With a stage so close to the audience, we quickly got used to experiencing just how dynamic each actor was. (Real talk: I liked them all equally, so don't ask me to pick a favorite.)

I found Brett Ashley Robinson so completely effervescent as the The Princess, and Alex Bechtel's Witch hilarious and creepy. The kids enjoyed seeing Tony Lawton take on several quick assorted roles as narrator, throwing on a simple item of clothing to distinguish himself from MacDonald. Emily Gardner Xu Hall and Rob Tucker as the King and Queen were both funny and lovable as they worked to find a way to help their daughter.

The Music

Here's one of my favorite things about The Light Princess: it was written by a cast member and the music was composed by a cast member. So after the show, I was able to actually meet Tony and Alex in person and share my praise for the show! Alex's musical scores were fantastic - catchy and capturing the feeling of each moment of the play. Each character seemed to have their own "sound," which all came together for a harmonious production soundtrack.

Also, speaking of the cast, they are not only gifted actors, but gifted musicians as well! Each character played one if not several instruments during the production!

The Set

The set design for The Light Princess used the Arcadia Stage space so well. The play begins with simple staging, and as the characters come on stage, they each help to build up a portion of the set: moving the piano, hanging a picture, mounting clouds on lights. I loved their use of layering to make the stage feel bigger and deeper. The backdrop for scenes at the Lake, several large swaths of blue fabric are stretched across the stage at various heights, giving the effect of rippling water. It was magic!

If you go and see The Light Princess, I'd love to hear about YOUR experience! The production will be running until June 4, 2017.

NOW PLAYING at Arden Theatre: The Light Princess {GIVEAWAY}

2017-04-27T11:54:00.000-04:00

We are a family who advocates for the arts, so we've been intentional to expose our girls to many forms of creativity. Art. Music. Film. And, of course, theatre. As early as we felt they could handle it, Hubby and I have taken them to see various productions, mainly children's theatre. Not only does this exposure help build an appreciation for the arts, but also what is expected of them as an audience member.

As a theatre goer, one of my favorite experiences is to see a book or play I've read come to life on stage or screen. While I'm a harsh critic of books-to-movie films, I love comparing and contrasting. I enjoy seeing if the characters are visually how I'd imagined them in my mind.

So I am excited for the newest production to take the Arden Theatre stage, The Light Princess. This is a story that we read to the girls when they were young, so they are familiar with the tale. This lighthearted story is perfect for kids of all ages - and with the amazing cast and crew at the Arden, I know it will be equally compelling on stage!

The Arden Theater will be presenting The Light Princess, adapted from the story by George MacDonald, with book and lyrics by Tony Lawton and original music by Alex Bechtel. Steve Pacek directs. The production will be running until June 4, 2017.

Rob Tucker as the King (left), Emily Gardner Xu Hall as the Queen (right) and Brett Robinson as the Princess in the world premiere of the musical THE LIGHT PRINCESS at Arden Theatre Company through June 4, 2017. www.ardentheatre.org. Photo by Mark Garvin.

Based on the Scottish legend by George MacDonald, The Light Princess tells the story of a teenager who has no gravity of any kind – in addition to having no feelings for others she floats in the air, unable to ever touch the ground. Filled with wonderful characters and a beguiling score, this enchanting, clever and wickedly funny new musical will delight kids and parents alike.
Stay tuned: we'll be seeing the show this week, and I will be back with pictures and review!
THE LIGHT PRINCESS includes weekday matinee performances for students and weekend performances for families. Single ticket prices are $18 - $36, with discounts available for groups of 20 or more, seniors, students, military, and educators. Call the Arden Box Office at 215.922.1122, visit www.ardentheatre.org or walk-up at the box office at 40 N. 2nd Street in Old City, Philadelphia.

Giveaway

Enter to win a voucher for a 4-pack of tickets to see The Light Princess with YOUR family this Spring!

How to enter: Leave a comment with who you would take with you to see the show.

That's it!

Giveaway will run until Monday, May 8. Winner will be announced on Tuesday, May 9. One entry per person.

Photo Credit: Mark Garvin.
Disclosure: I was provided 4 tickets to see a preview of Hans Brinker and the Silver Skates in return for this post. All opinions are my own.

We're Cuckoo for Toasted Coconut at Giant Food Stores {GIVEAWAY!}

2017-04-11T09:01:00.000-04:00

This post and giveaway are sponsored by GIANT Food Stores.

There is something that happens emotionally when the days start to stretch out, with the sun setting later and the breeze becoming warmer and the air offering the faintest scent of lilacs.

Friends? It's SPRING.

And I'm FOR IT.

It's the time of year that the fam and I spend more time outside, we ready our garden for planting and sneeze a lot because allergies are no joke.

And just as the earth goes through a rebirth during this season, so does my meal planning. I embrace the fresh flavors of fresh produce and the charred savoriness of grilled food.

So I am especially stoked to embrace this season's newest limited time original offering from Giant Food Stores:

THIS IS NOT EVEN A JOKE, PEOPLE.

Giant, in all of their amazingness, has introduced one of the most spring-iest and summer-iest flavors of all time: TOASTED COCONUT! We're talking toasted coconut everything: coconut cookies, coconut flavored water, coconut pancake and waffle mix, coconut gouda, coconut granola, coconut hummus, coconut popcorn shrimp (YES I DID), and (be still, my heart) toasted coconut ice cream.

Can we get a collective ::swoon:: happening right now?

Are you ready to dive in head first to this flavor season? In honor of the limited-time Toasted Coconut product line, Giant is giving one of my readers a $25 gift card! That way you can buy $25 worth of delicious coconut products while they last!

Or you can hide them and eat them all yourself. No judgement here.

Learn more about the Toasted Coconut offerings on the GIANT Food Stores website and be sure to follow Giant on Facebook and Twitter.

GIVEAWAY

Enter below! Happy winning!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I was provided products to try to facilitate this review and conduct the giveaway. All opinions are, as always, my own.

Twisted Chocolate Products Are Now Available at Giant Food Stores

2017-02-27T14:58:00.002-05:00

This post and giveaway are sponsored by GIANT Food Stores.

It's a crazy time in America, and opinions are running wild, with people struggling to see eye to eye on a daily basis. But, can we agree on one thing?

Chocolate, in all shapes and forms, is wonderful, heavenly and divine?

See? We can all come together on the common ground of deliciousness!

Giant, my go-to place to shop, knows chocolate - and is even taking it up a notch with their limited-time original Twisted Chocolate products!

So, why "twisted?" Each product, from hummus and floral bouquets to ice cream and soda, is infused with the wonderful flavors of chocolate...and a little something extra. The subtle hints of spice adds a new level of delight to each bite!

Intrigued and ready to dive in? In honor of the limited-time Twisted Chocolate product line, Giant is giving one of my readers a $25 gift card! That way you can buy $25 worth of delicious Twisted Chocolate products while they last!

Or you can hide them and eat them all yourself. No judgement here.

Learn more about the Twisted Chocolate offerings on the GIANT Food Stores website and be sure to follow Giant on Facebook and Twitter.

GIVEAWAY

Enter below! Happy winning!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I was provided products to try to facilitate this review and conduct the giveaway. All opinions are, as always, my own.

Gifts For Guys With Beards

2016-12-20T11:38:00.002-05:00

* This post contains affiliate links.

Friends: I'm going to keep it short and sweet.

I've been asked by several friends with partners who have beards about the things I've purchased for Bearded Hubby over the years.

I figured that since beards are oh-so-hip right now, this might be a common conundrum other partners-of-bearded-men may face (no pun intended).

So, for sake of ease, I'm compiling some of the best products I've purchased (or have noted to purchase) for my guy with a beard. I hope this helps the unbearded with their gift giving this holiday season.

Natural Man Bay Lime Beard Oil

Hubby spritzes this conditioning oil onto his facial whiskers daily. It keeps them tamed and smells pretty good, too.

Beard Bib by Beard King

True Story: my friend Ed shared this on his Facebook newsfeed a year ago in a joking kind of way. I saw it and thought THIS PRODUCT IS AMAZING AND HOW CAN I GET IT IMMEDIATELY. Partly because it's fun, but also I'm tired of cleaning trimmed beard hairs out of all the crevices in my bathroom.

Beard Trimmer

Because, seriously, if you're going to have a beard, you need to keep it in line.

Seriously.

Beard Shaper Template

This is not a product we've personally purchased - but it's on my radar as a future gift because I feel if a guy is going to shape his beard at home, he might as well get all the help he can get.

Nothing is worse than an asymmetrical beard, amiright?

Natural Boar Bristle Beard Brush and Comb

Another "on my radar" gift that I've stored away for future use. I know nothing about boar bristle, but it's clearly the way to keep beards in top notch shape.

And pretty much anything from Beard King.

Wishing you a happy holiday, glad tidings and goodbeards!

Other gift ideas

Steph's Semi-Ultimate Gift Guide 2016

Gifts for Music Lovers: Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, Oh My!

Fit and Fresh Gifts for Women

Gifts to Encourage Learning and Creativity

Gifts for Kids Who Love to Code

Sherlock Fan Gift Guide

Breaking Bad Fan Gift Guide

New Girl Fan Gift Guide

American Made Gift Guide for Guys

Gifts for Moms Who Run

Gift Guide for Dudes

Hope you and yours have a happy holiday!

Steph's (Semi) Ultimate Gift Guide 2016

2016-12-13T14:59:00.001-05:00

* This post contains affiliate links.

It's that wonderful time of year again, where we frantically rack our brains to think of the perfect gift for all the amazing people in our lives. I'm going to be honest: sometimes gift giving can be overwhelming and exhausting. Even when it is born out of great intentions. I absolutely LOVElovelove finding that penultimate gift that totally makes someone's day.

But, man, sometimes it's hard to know what to get!

Well, friends. I'm here to make our lives a little easier. As I am wont to do this time of year, I have compiled a few of my fave picks into a gift guide to help guide your gift buying. These are items the Andersons have on their own holiday lists.

Or stuff we just really, really dig.

For Kids

Balance Beans

Balance Beans is a logic game and math game all in one. Set up the Red Beans according to the Challenge Card. Then carefully place the colorful Beans on the Seesaw to keep it from teetering. When you balance the Seesaw, you are actually balancing an equation! As the challenges get harder, you’ll rely less on trial and error – and more on math and reasoning skills. This bean-filled logic game is a fun way to introduce young learners to elementary algebra. Available on Amazon and Target.com.

Clue Master

Clue Master is a fun logic game that develops the skill of deductive reasoning, a key ability in math, science, computer programming, and many other fields. In this game, you may deduce information based on what must be true even though you can’t see it directly. The more you play, the more deductive tricks and strategies you’ll learn as you reason logically from the clues you’re given! Available on Amazon and target.com.

Yoga Spinner

Yoga Spinner is a delightful introduction to yoga that encourages teamwork and healthy physical activity. Give the spinner a whirl and perform the pose on the corresponding Yoga Pose Card. If you can hold the pose for 10 seconds, you keep the card, and the first player to collect a card in each color wins! You’ll need a little luck and teamwork, and a bit more flexibility and balance to win this entertaining yoga game. Available on Amazon.

BYOU “Be Your Own You” Magazine

BYOU Magazine, published by Heartlight Girls Publications, LLC, is for girls ages 7-15 and helps build self-esteem in fun and empowering ways with features on positive celebrity role models, stories about real girls making a difference, tips, advice, games, crafts, contests, jokes, and much more. Topics include friendships, bullying, inner beauty, empowerment, community service, and other timely subjects to help today’s girl glow from the inside out. Founded and published by Debra Gano, who is a national self-esteem expert, best-selling author of the award-winning Heartlight Girls series, and former professional model & actress (as well as a mom to her 13-year-old daughter!) believes ALL girls deserve to have healthy self-esteem

Vivitz

Welcome to the world of Vivitz ! The Fun, Flexible, Girls Activity system, where you can "Connect, Create, Decorate" yourself, your room, your world! Soft to the touch Vivitz pieces connect together to create everything from fashions for you, to decorations for your room! My kids are currently obsessed with this fashionable building system.

Rubik's Cube

The world's #1 brain-teasing puzzler is still going strong with billions of puzzling combinations, but only one solution! Scramble the colored squares on this addictive and multi-dimensional cube. Then twist, turn, and rotate to match up the colors again on all 9 sides! Can you master the mysteries of the Rubik's Cube ? Can you improve your time once you solve it? Pit yourself against the ultimate brain teaser!

FlashPad

Activity-packed, portable playtime. The fun-filled FlashPad Infinite is a handheld electronic touchscreen device with 16 built-in games like Catch Me, Remember Me, Chase Me, and lots more. Its 16 LED light circle touch points and seven different LED lights ensure that there's never a dull moment.

Tickets to see Frog and Toad at Arden Theatre

A Year with Frog and Toad follows the unlikely friendship between cheerful Frog and the rather grumpy Toad through four fun-filled seasons. Their friendship blossoms and grows as they learn many life lessons along the way. Filled with musical numbers that will make you laugh and cry, A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD is a show to delight every age. The Arden Theater will be presenting A Year With Frog and Toad with music by Robert Reale and book and lyrics by Willie Reale from November 23, 2016 – January 29, 2017. Based on the beloved Frog and Toad children’s stories written and illustrated by Arnold Lobel, A Year With Frog and Toad is the first of two Children’s Theatre offerings during the 2016/17 Season. Buy tickets now!

For Grown Ups

Magazine/Newspaper Subscriptions

Hubby and I believe in the importance of journalism and supporting the print medium of newspapers and magazines, especially during this season of life where these things are under fire and threatened to extinction. As a way to show your support, consider gifting a subscription to your loved ones - or even yourself! A few of our favorites:

Poetry Magazine
Allrecipes
Food Network Magazine
The New York Times
The Washington Post
Womens Running Magazine
The New Yorker

Darn Tough Socks

Darn Tough Socks socks are American-made and simply the best. That's all. We wear them almost exclusively.

Cave Tools BBQ Grill Tools Set

SUPER HEAVY DUTY bbq grill tools set - We use 20% thicker stainless steel than normal barbecue sets so they are extremely durable and will never bend or break when picking up large pieces of meat. SPATULA BOTTLE OPENER FOR TAILGATING - serrated edge for cutting, contoured tip for easily flipping burgers, oversized face for large steaks - Grill Tongs Have 6 Teeth for turning hot dogs and sausages & Includes Metal Loop that Latches Shut for Easy Storage. DISHWASHER SAFE FOR EASY CLEANUP - Extra Wide Hanging Hooks with Leather Straps fit on any grill tools holder including Weber Genesis and all other barbeque models.

Amazon Fire TV Stick

Amazon Fire TV Stick connects to your TV's HDMI port. Just grab and go to enjoy Netflix, Prime Instant Video, Hulu Plus, YouTube.com, music, and much more. The Amazon Fire TV Stick has changed the way we watch TV. We love that all of our apps and networks are connected, the parental controls are great and integration is fantastic.

Settler's of Catan Board Game

The women and men of your expedition build the first two settlements. Fortunately, the land is rich in natural resources. You build roads and new settlements that eventually become cities. Will you succeed in gaining supremacy on Catan? Barter trade dominates the scene. Some resources you have in abundance, other resources are scarce. Ore for wool, brick for lumber - you trade according to what is needed for your current building projects. Proceed strategically! If you found your settlements in the right places and skillfully trade your resources, then the odds will be in your favor. But your opponents are smart too. Settler's of Catan Board Game is our favorite board game, hands down! Great for kids 10+.

Cheese Board Set

Because we're classy like that.

Turntable (with Built in Speakers)

Hubby has been into vinyls, so if you have a music fan in your life, this is a good recommendation!

Aeropress Coffee and Espresso Maker

The AeroPress coffee maker is a new kind of coffee press that brews coffee under ideal conditions: proper temperature, total immersion, and rapid filtering. This results in amazingly delicious coffee with a wide range of beautiful flavors but without bitterness and with very low acidity. Since its introduction the AeroPress has become a much beloved brewer for serious coffee lovers and coffee professionals around the world.

Other gift ideas

Gifts for Music Lovers: Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, Oh My!

Fit and Fresh Gifts for Women

Gifts to Encourage Learning and Creativity

Gifts for Kids Who Love to Code

Sherlock Fan Gift Guide

Breaking Bad Fan Gift Guide

New Girl Fan Gift Guide

American Made Gift Guide for Guys

Gifts for Moms Who Run

Gift Guide for Dudes

Hope you and yours have a happy holiday!

At the Arden Theatre: A Year With Frog And Toad

2016-11-14T14:40:00.003-05:00

I am a big advocate of performing arts, and I believe in starting kids young to grow their passion for the arts! Children's theatre is a fantastic way to introduce your kids to the stage, and in the Philadelphia area, few do children's theatre as well as Arden Theatre in center city! Last year, my family viewed their holiday showing of Hans Brinker and the Silver Skates. We are delighted to check out this year's seasonal production.

The Arden Theater will be presenting A Year With Frog and Toad with music by Robert Reale and book and lyrics by Willie Reale from November 23, 2016 – January 29, 2017. Based on the beloved Frog and Toad children’s stories written and illustrated by Arnold Lobel, A Year With Frog and Toad is the first of two Children’s Theatre offerings during the 2016/17 Season.

A Year with Frog and Toad follows the unlikely friendship between cheerful Frog and the rather grumpy Toad through four fun-filled seasons. Their friendship blossoms and grows as they learn many life lessons along the way. Filled with musical numbers that will make you laugh and cry, A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD is a show to delight every age.

I LOVE when theatre brings beloved literature to life. I have fond memories of reading Frog and Toad stories as a child, as well as reading the books to my kid as well. It will be quite an experience seeing the characters come to life on stage!

A Year With Frog and Toad includes weekday matinee performances for students and weekend performances for families. Single ticket prices are $18 - $36, with discounts available for groups of 20 or more, seniors, students, military, and educators. Arden Children’s Theatre 2-play subscriptions are available for $26 - $50. Call the Arden Box Office at 215.922.1122, visit www.ardentheatre.org or walk-up at the box office at 40 N. 2nd Street in Old City, Philadelphia.

Giveaway

Enter to win a voucher for a 4-pack of tickets to see A Year With Frog and Toad with YOUR family this holiday season!

How to enter:Leave a comment with who you would take with you to see the show.

That's it!

Giveaway will run until this Thursday November 17. Winner will be announced on Frida November 17. One entry per person.

Disclosure: I was provided 4 tickets to see a preview of Hans Brinker and the Silver Skates in return for this post. All opinions are my own.

Discussion Questions about Race and Justice for Families | An American Girl Story - Melody 1963: Love Has to Win

2016-10-24T14:18:00.000-04:00

We recently had The Talk with L.

And, inadvertently, with M, who caught a good bit of the conversation because she was in close proximity. And by "had The Talk," I mean "some semblance of information was relayed from me to the girls that was mostly biological and probably not complete but let's hope they don't get tested on it any time soon."

Since starting this blog, I've run the gamut of parenting seasons. And I'll be honest: none have been easy. Sure, some are easier than others. But they all bring their own challenges. When the girls were babies, it was the overwhelming physical challenge of trying to keep them alive and stop them from crying and sneaking in sleep sometimes.

Now that the girls are older, I find the parenting challenges to be deeper. We're at the stage of imparting knowledge and guiding them so that they'll be mostly functioning adults that make mostly good decisions and generally contribute to society in positive ways.

THAT IS A BIG FREAKING JOB, PEOPLE.

A lot of this season is having hard conversations. Some are uncomfortable (Lord help me when they finally connect that while women have eggs and men have sperm, they have to, at some point, unite to make a baby) while others are more momentous, because these conversations are building blocks that will have lasting effects on how the girls will look at culture and history and the world and the people in it, so don't screw this up okay?

With various events over the past few years playing out over media, it's important to me to have conversations about race and justice with the girls. Not because they'll accidentally see it, but because it's important and I want my girls to know what is right, to speak out for the good of all and to be agents of change. They are mostly unaware of the harsh realities for people of color in our country, and I know that comes from a place of privilege. I'm so aware of it. And my girls need to be aware of it, too, because they have classmates for whom those harsh realities are life and privilege is not their friend.

So we do talk about it, and we try our best to be very honest and real about the topic. But it often helps to have a springboard for those conversations, especially when kids are young.

When I saw that American Girl had come out with a new movie about Melody, a 10-year-old African-American girl living in Detroit during the Civil Rights Movement, I was excited to jump on the opportunity to make this a learning moment.

We got to finally watch the movie on Amazon this weekend. And it was fantastic. Melody's story did not hold back, shedding light on what life was like in the 1960's for black and brown people in America. We stopped the movie several times to talk about what we were watching, answer questions and share our thoughts. At a few points, L was frustrated at the unfairness of Melody's situation.

So we talked about it: the history of black people in America, slavery, the Emancipation Proclamation, Dr. King, and that while we've come a long way, there is still a long way to go.

You know, just your normal run-of-the-mill Saturday night, right?

Above all, we left the movie with the challenge that we have a part to play in, as Melody says, making this country a better place for everybody. A challenge I take seriously, and will continue to challenge my daughters on.

I feel it is important for white families to be having these conversations with their kids, so that we are raising our children to be part of the solution. Our privilege often hinders us from having these conversations because we can choose to ignore the issues and not be affected. Yet, by doing so, we are affecting the continued issue of race and injustice in this country. Watching Melody's story is a great way to begin having those conversations.

To help facilitate conversation with your kids, I wrote up a few discussion questions that we found important and engaging as we watched the movie. Some are more nuanced for older kids, but you know your kids best. However you choose to have these discussions, just make sure you are having them! I hope these questions help spur on good conversation with your kids.

Discussion Questions for
An American Girl Story - Melody 1963: Love Has to Win

1) Why did Melody's Papa say black people were safer on the moon than in Detroit?

2) Why were the kids in school mean to Melody?

3) What did Melody notice about the mannequins at the clothing store? How is Melody's shopping experience different than yours?

4) How did it make you feel watching the way Melody's family was treated?

5) In response to girls saying she doesn't belong at school, Melody says, "I belong everywhere you do." Is that true today?

6) What did Melody mean when she says "The Pledge of Allegiance is a lie"?

7) What differences do you notice between the school where Melody goes and the school where most of the kids in her neighborhood go?

8) What is it mean to be "indivisible?"

9) How can you work to make this country a better place for everybody?

Treat Yo'self: 5 Healthy After School Snack Ideas with Giant Food Stores {GIVEAWAY}

2016-09-12T13:14:00.001-04:00

*This is a sponsored post*

I'm not sure about your kids, but my girls come off the bus ravenous. Before even getting a "Hello, Mom! I missed you! Let me tell you about my day" (which, let's be honest, never happens), I get a grumble that resembles some form of "I'm hungry. I need a snack. Stat."

There is a balance to be had when whipping up after school snacks. On one hand, kids are hungry after a big day at school, and need nourishment. On the other hand, it's close enough to dinner time that I don't want them chowing down and totally ruining their appetite.

So, I try my best to "treat" the kids with small, yummy snacks that will tide them over until mealtime. I like that it's a way to give them something special as a reward for working hard at school.

Giant Food Stores is a great resource for healthy after school snacks. I love their Nature's Promise organic brand, as there are so many tasty options that have a sneaky helping of nutrients, too!

Here are 5 of our favorite "sneaky healthy" after school treats:

Granola Bars

We always stock up on granola bars at Giant. I like that I can trust the ingredients in Nature's Promise granola bars, and my kids think they are getting a total treat because they are filled with things like fruit and dark chocolate! As of late, I've been particularly fond of the Ancient Grains and Chia granola bars. They are delicious and pack an extra nutritious punch! Granola Bars are also totally totable, which makes them a good on-the-go after school snack when you have activities, lessons and practice.

Carrots and Ranch Dressing

This is a great way to get kids to consume some veggies. I put out a bag of Nature's Promise Organic Carrots and a bowl of Nature's Promise Organic Ranch Dressing. It's a big hit in our house!

Granola Chips, Almond Butter and Special Toppings

I wish Granola Chips had been invented when I was a kid. SO yummy - and a great way to scoop up extra protein! Almond Butter is my go-to when trying to add something sweet but also filling. After school, it's a solid way to give the kids something that will "stick to their ribs" until dinner (which means they aren't telling me every five minutes that they are hungry. Again. Still. Always).

I scoop some almond butter in a bowl and top with things like coconut flakes and mini chocolate chips. Then let the girls scoop it up with granola chips. Win! You can also make "granola chip nachos:" spread the chips on a plate. Then, heat up the almond butter in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 seconds, until it is thinned. Drizzle the chips with the almond butter and top it with coconut, chocolate chips, raisins, etc.

Organic Fruit Twists

Plain and simple. This is a win-win for us: they get a gummy treat, I get the secret knowledge that it's organic and good!

Yogurt Parfaits

We do this for breakfast sometimes, too. In a bowl, layer Greek yogurt and granola. Sometimes, if it's been a particularly rough day at school, I top with a dollop of whipped cream!

Now go treat the kiddos to something delicious...and HEALTHY!

*****

To give you a jump start in offering healthified after school snacks, Giant is awarding one of my lucky readers a $25 gift card! To enter, fill out the rafflecopter below. Happy winning - and cheers to a great school year!

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Disclosure: I was provided product and monetary compensation for this review and giveaway. All opinions are my own.

How To Build a Better Lunch Box (and GIVEAWAY!)

2016-08-22T10:33:00.000-04:00

*This is a sponsored post*

One week.

While the first day of autumn does not arrive for another month, my family's summer is officially over in one week. Why? Because school begins!

This year is extra special. Not only because Hubby and Chica are back to the school grind (as teacher and 3rd grader, respectively). But Bug is going to be a big kindergartener! Our program is in its last year of half day K, so it's only a few hours a day. But it will be a big shift having to put her on the bus (NO, I'm not crying - there's something in my eye) and to have everyone out of the house every day.

One of the things I'll be trying to focus on this year is offering better lunches for the girls. During the summer, since there was more time and we didn't have to pack anything, we had some great "out of the box" lunch ideas. Produce was fresh from the garden or farmer's market, and we had the time to be more creative.

My goal is to extend the same ideas to our school lunches. And, luckily, Giant Food Stores is here to help! Not only are their Nature's Promise products chock-full of healthy goodness, but their on-staff nutritionists offer great tips on building a better lunch.

Here are some tips on building a better lunch box this school year!

Group It Up

MyPlate is a fantastic resource for what our "plate" should look like for each meal. With the pickiness of kid's palates, it's easy to get into a habit of missing some of the core food groups. MyPlate is a goo reminder to include the five food groups each day.

Parenting Lunch Box Goal: aim to include a minimum of 3 food groups in your child's lunchbox each day.

Section It Out

I started doing this last year and I feel like it was super helpful for both me and my girls. Using a lunchbox with divided sections or separate containers helped me think beyond the sandwich and get creative. I felt free to try foods like salads or dips and vegetables that I wouldn't be able to use in a traditional lunch box. It's also a gentle reminder to include different food groups. It's a win-win, because the kiddos like seeing the different sections and not having their food touch.

Pump It Up

Pump it up...with protein! I've been more conscious of trying to incorporate foods full of protein into school lunches. Not only is protein an important part of MyPlate, but it's a great way to keep little tummies full for longer. Almond butter is one of my favorite protein sources (I always have a jar of Nature's Promise Almond Butter in my cabinet). Pack a double protein punch by adding some some granola as a greek yogurt topper.

Think Outside of the (Lunch) Box

How often do we plateau in a lunch-making routine of PB & J sandwich, goldfish crackers and a squeezy yogurt? This is a great lunch, but the same ol' same ol' can get boring.

Use your divided lunchbox to break OUT of the box with new ideas! Try tortilla roll-ups, carrots and ranch dressing, quinoa salad or build-your-own tacos. Sometimes a smattering of random things is a great option, too. Cut up some cheddar cheese, add some crackers, hardboiled eggs, applesauce and raisins for a tapas-style meal.

I know several parents who have had success putting mac-n-cheese or meatballs in a quality thermos and it's still warm and ready to go at lunch time!

Shake it up - your kids will thank you!

*****

To help you build a better lunchbox, Giant is awarding one of my lucky readers a $25 gift card to start the school year right! To enter, fill out the rafflecopter below. Happy winning - and cheers to a great school year!

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Disclosure: I was provided product and monetary compensation for this review and giveaway. All opinions are my own.

Limoncello Products are BACK at Giant Food Stores (and a GIVEAWAY!)

2016-06-09T09:43:00.003-04:00

It's that wonderful time of year again!

No, not the end of the school year or beginning of summer. I mean that beautiful season of Limoncello products at Giant Food Stores!

Seasonal products are my fave - it always makes me excited about the season. Give me pumpkin in autumn! Mint in winter! And when the days get longer and the temps start rising, I need me a big helping of Limoncello flavor. Like last summer, Giant is harnessing the special Sorrento lemon flavor and infusing an entire line of products that will be available in-store for a limited time only.

The Limoncello product line includes more than 30 items, from fresh to non-perishable departments. What Limoncello items am I most excited about? Limoncello cookies, Limoncello seltzer, Limoncello granola, Limoncello soap, and, of course, the Limoncello ICE CREAM.

(Note from Steph: the ice cream is DIVINE. Like. Get some. Now.)

In honor of the fantabulous limited-time Limoncello product line, Giant is giving one of my readers a $25 gift card! That way you can buy $25 worth of delicious Limoncello products for your next Summer Soiree!

Or you can hide them and eat them all yourself. No judgement here.

GIVEAWAY

Enter below! Happy winning!

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GIVEAWAY: The Franklin Institute's The Science Behind Pixar

2016-06-01T15:32:00.002-04:00

This is a sponsored post.

Having grown up in the Philadelphia suburbs, I can say, hands-down, one of my favorite attractions of all time is the Franklin Institute. Granted, I've always been a bit of a science geek. But, the Franklin Institute really offers excitement for children (and adults) of all ages!

One of things I love is their rotating exhibits. Each year, I know there will be an interesting and education attraction to bring my kids to. I'm really excited about their newest exhibit, The Science Behind Pixar.

As a fan of Pixar, this exhibition so incredibly interesting. And since my kids love Pixar movies as well, it's a win-win! This exhibit, which runs through September 5, 2016, offers 8 different sections, giving a behind-the-scenes look at the creation and production process: modeling, rigging, surfaces, sets & cameras, animation, simulation, lighting and rendering. Kids will enjoy getting a chance to see recreations of their favorite Pixar characters (hello Buzz Lightyear, Dory, Mike and Sulley, Edna Mode, and WALL•E!), and get involved in hands-on activities.

This is definitely an exhibit you and your family do NOT want to miss!

The folks at The Franklin Institute are kindly giving away a Family 4-Pack of tickets to The Science Behind Pixar to one of my fantastic readers! Just enter below!

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The Science Behind Pixar Exhibit Details

Dates
March 12, 2016 – September 5, 2016

Ticket Information
Daytime (Includes General Admission to The Franklin Institute) - Daily, 9:30am - 5pm

- Adults $29.95

- Children (ages 3-11) $24.95

Evening Tickets (does NOT include General Admission to The Franklin Institute) - Thursday through Saturday, 5pm-9pm

- Adults $19.95

- Children (ages 3-11) $14.95

Use code MBPIXAR* to receive $5.00 off up to 4 adult, daytime tickets to The Science Behind Pixar. Contact The Franklin Institute at 215-448-1200 or visit fi.edu to redeem your code.

*$5 off Daytime Adult Admission tickets to The Science Behind Pixar. Limit 4 tickets per person. Includes General Admission to The Franklin Institute. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Upgrades available on-site for IMAX and 3D Theater. Redeemable online or over the phone. Processing fees apply when ordering tickets in advance. Excludes holidays. Valid through 8/28/16

Photos provided by Franklin Institute

Go Green For Earth Day with Giant Food Stores! {GIVEAWAY}

2016-04-07T10:16:00.000-04:00

Despite being a product of the 80's, when environment and healthy diet choices were not high priorities, Hubby and I have become more and more invested in making healthy decisions for our family. We work to eat better, exercise and be more aware of the products we use in and around our home.

Not long ago, you had to go to specialty stores for products that were organic and natural. It made healthy lifestyle choices that much more difficult (and expensive) for health/environmentally-conscious families.

I love that nowadays, I can hit up my local Giant Food Store and have economically-priced organic, free and natural products at my finger tips.

Earth Day is coming up on 4/22, and to celebrate, I'm showcasing the awesome products Nature's Promise has to offer! The Nature's Promise brand is a constant in my house, ranging from food to cleaning products, as well as quality reusable bags. It helps us make greener choices all year 'round!

Check out how the earth has benefitted from Giant's efforts:

To sweeten the festivities, Giant is giving one of my lucky readers a $25 gift card to green-ify their house for Earth Day!

To enter, fill out the rafflecopter below. The giveaway will run until next Friday, 4/15, at 12pm.

Happy winning!

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Disclosure: I was provided product and monetary compensation for this review and giveaway. All opinions are my own.

Fresh Meal Kits at GIANT

2016-03-08T14:38:00.000-05:00

Disclosure: this is a sponsored post.

Some days, I just can't keep up.

With, like, life.

And by "some days" I mean "every day."

Can I get an amen?

Since starting this blog as a stay-at-home mom (thus the name of the blog), I've transitioned to part-time work-at-home mom (WAHM). But I made the recent leap to being a full time WAHM. And friends?

It's daunting.

And perhaps I should come up with a better name for the blog, eh?

With an increased work load, a steady parenting load and the endless load of keeping house I am overloaded. The laundry pile never gets smaller, and although I try to stay on top of meal planning, some days we get to 5pm and I look around wondering who will be cooking tonight.

Oh. Right. Me. Hai.

I know a lot of families have opted for meal services that deliver pre-packed ingredients and a recipe right to your door. And that's nice and great. BUT. I don't want to commit to this kind of service, as I often need to decide in a moment that dinner needs to happen. Ideally, I'd be able to get the same pre-packed service, but have it available for direct purchase at my grocery store.

Which is why Giant is, as always, my BFF.

BECAUSE THEY THOUGHT OF IT AND MADE IT HAPPEN INTO EXISTENCE.

Like, for real people. The Giant Fresh Meal Kits are a godsend to overwhelmed and overburdened individuals and families alike. There is a fantastic variety of meal options, they are available at select Giant stores in the Philadelphia area and they are AFFORDABLE. Each Meal Kit is $14.99 and feeds 2 people, and 2 kits are a steal at $24.99.

That's less than going out for dinner!

We are fortunate enough that our local Giant offers the Meal Kits, so we took them for a spin.

The meal options were tantalizing, and included:

Pan seared chicken breast with creamy mushroom sauce, garlic roasted green beans and seasoned wild rice.
Baked chicken parmesan with rosemary Yukon gold potato wedges and fresh ratatouille.
Mini Italian style meatloaf with couscous and fresh vegetables.
Peppercorn steak with creamy blue cheese sauce, chive mashed potatoes, and garlic roasted broccoli and cauliflower.
Pan seared boneless pork chops with apple and honey mustard sauce, roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes.

You can imagine it was hard to choose.

We went with the Peppercorn Steak. And it was a great choice. Upon arriving at home, we opened up our Meal Kit, and I absolutely loved how everything was perfectly portioned and packaged.

The instructions were included, and I found them simple and easy to read.

Whipping the meal up was a cinch and, might I add, delicious. I am actually eager to try the other meal packs!

This is such a fantastic option for those who want a fresh at-home meal but don't have the time to scour Pinterest for recipes and gathering the ingredients at the store. Thank you, Giant, for doing it for us!

The Fresh Meal Kits can be found in select Giant's in the Philadelphia area as well as the Peapod delivery service.

For more information, visit Giant Food Stores online.

Nonnabox: The Subscription Box for Italians!

2016-02-16T15:57:00.003-05:00

Italy is in my blood.

Literally.

A large portion of my heritage is Italian, and from my loud-mouthed ways to my love for pasta, it's hard to deny.

So when I heard there was an Italian-themed subscription box, I was all, "HOLD ON. LET ME WIPE THE GRAVY OFF MY FACE AND CHECK THIS OUT."

Meet Nonnabox.

Guido Pedrelli, founder of Nonna Box, gets the Italy love. He's a US-based Italian with a Nonna (grandmother) who ran a trattoria in San Carlo di Cesena. She was an amazing cook, and Guido has fond memories of her kitchen and her food.

To honor her spirit and commitment to all things culinary, Guido created Nonnabox: a subscription box service that delivers gourmet food items from a different Italian region each month, along with the story and recipes of a local nonna.

I LOVE IT.

I had a chance to check out last month's Nonnabox. And this Italian girl was QUITE pleased! Feast your eyes on my haul:

I love that every item has a recipe to accompany it! It allows me to truly use every product.

Nonnabox makes an AWESOME gift: either to someone else OR yourself! The monthly price for a box is $69.95, and you can order online.

For more information: www.nonnabox.com.

Roasted Butternut Squash, Apple and Chorizo White Pizza with Ricotta Garlic Herb Spread

2016-01-15T10:25:00.002-05:00

So it's been a while since I've posted about my homemade pizza adventures. We got away from our weekly grilled pizza routine due to...ahem...creative differences between me and Hubby.

But yesterday, I had one of those culinary inspirational moments where an idea pops into your head and you are so compelled to create it, you find yourself picking up ingredients at the grocery store with no knowledge of how you arrived there.

What? Only me?

Anyway. After safely arriving home, I got to work. My inspiration came from a butternut squash and container of Ricotta cheese I had sitting in my fridge.

"I can do something with this," I told myself. "There is a recipe here waiting to happen."

And this white pizza recipe was born.

Since several people asked for the recipe after I posted the picture, I'm writing this up now (also for myself, for future reference, as my mind is unfortunately not the most reliable database).

Now, I am usually a proponent of grilling my pizza. I like the brick oven effect it has. But Hubby does not feel the same. So, we're working out our differences, and the compromise was that I baked the pizza in our oven.

A big note on this pizza (and all the pizzas I make): I go the thin crust route. So, I use a 1-lb ball of dough from the grocery store to make TWO pizzas, not one. In my instructions below, I share how I baked it in the oven. But if you want to grill your pizza, follow this tutorial.

Prepare for your tastebuds to be AMAZED.

1 lb. raw Pizza Dough

2 cups of butternut squash, diced

1 medium onion, diced

1 large apple, diced

3 slices of chorizo lunch meat, thinly sliced

1 cup of Ricotta Cheese (I used fat free, but any Ricotta cheese will do)

1/4 cup of shredded Parmesan Cheese

3 cloves of garlic, minced (or 3 TBS of minced garlic)

1 tsp of dried oregano

1 tsp of dried basil

salt and pepper, to taste

1. Let pizza dough rise according to instructions, and cut in half. Reserve second half for another pizza of your choose (here are a ton of ideas). Roll out your remaining pizza dough half on a floured board until 1/8 to 1/4 inch thin. Place on a greased baking sheet.

2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place squash and onions on a greased baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place in oven and roast for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, add apples, and roast another 10 minutes.This can be done a day ahead of time.

3. While veggies are roasting, combine Ricotta, garlic and herbs. Add more herbs or garlic to taste. The consistency should be that of a spread, not a sauce.

4. Once veggie mixture is done roasting, increase oven temperature to 450 degrees. Pre-cook the crust by putting the rolled pizza dough into the oven and cooking for 6-10 minutes. Watch closely: you do not want the crust to get brown.

5. Once the dough is firm and on the verge of crispy, remove from oven. Smear the Ricotta Garlic Herb spread over the crust. Evenly spread the squash-onion-apple mixture over the Ricotta. Top with chorizo slices. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

6. Return pizza to oven for another 10 minutes. Pizza should be cooked through and golden, but not burnt. For extra tastiness, turn your oven to broil for 1-2 minutes, or until cheese and toppings are browned.

Enjoy!

The Playdate Pledge

2016-01-14T14:23:00.001-05:00

As a regular to playdates, there is an unspoken code to follow.

Have you taken the pledge?

I solemnly swear to support any and all playdate events that I am invited to. If I am unable to make said playdate, I will still comment or like the invitation on social media, knowing Facebook will out me as having seen the post but not responding. I will make every effort to attend the playdates I am invited to, because I secretly cry and eat ice cream and question my friendships when people skip out on the playdates I plan.

I, having been appointed an invitee of a playdate, promise not to judge the host on the amount of toothpaste dried on the bathroom sink, and I will overlook dirty dishes in the kitchen, piles of unfolded laundry or areas of clutter in the home. We can attest that you most likely hyper-cleaned before we arrived but, hello, KIDS.

I take an oath to allow each playdate participant to vent, choosing from a variety of topics including (but not limited to): child-rearing, marriage, in-laws, grocery shopping, television binge-watching, spousal arguments, meal recipes, public education, private education, common child feeding practices, bedtime routines, shopping deals and where do you get the big bottles of that wine for so cheap?

When a playdate invitee is struggling - mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually - it is the job of remaining invitees to lift him or her up. Listen. Encourage. Advise. Speak positivity and truth into his or her life. Because some days are hard, bad and dark. And in those times, playdates are safe havens and silver linings, just to know you are not alone.

Above all, I vow to not judge my parental friends, while attending playdates or otherwise. Because we're all adults here and we're all struggling in this whole raising small humans thing together. Lord knows it is difficult. And while some people may choose to tackle parenting different than me, I know that we all need to do what we need to do to get through the day. And if that's co-sleeping for you, bottle feeding for you and going to a 9-5 for you, then WORK IT, GIRL. Different strokes for different folks, and we all could use a little support and encouragement.

Last but not least, it's generally agreed upon that coffee and/or wine are acceptable beverages for consumption at playdates.

I solemnly swear.

If You Give A Kid A Vision...

2016-01-08T13:04:00.001-05:00

I was eagerly sifting through the clearance racks at Old Navy with a miniature Elsa trailing behind me. It was the battle I chose not to fight today. It was Friday. And I'm one of those work-in-progress parents who still has a lot to learn; learning to pick my battles is an ongoing lesson.

I had errands to run this morning, and we weren't leaving the house without Maggie being dressed in head-to-toe Elsa. This had been made clear to me from the moment she woke up

Maggie: "Mom? I'm going to wear my new Elsa dress today."

Me: "Well, we have a few stores to go to. So maybe you can put on the Elsa dress when we get home."

Maggie: ::staring::

It was a silent stand-off, and in the end, I decided it wasn't worth the fight. She was willing to wear a jacket, so what did it matter that she was boasting a princess outfit (complete with glittery cape) underneath it?

We stopped at a craft store, where the cashier, a middle-aged woman, noted, "Oh, don't we look fancy today?" She said it to me, rather than Maggie, in that chiding, indulgent way that we often speak to little kids, like, "nudge, nudge, wink, wink, we're all in on the joke." Maggie smiled politely and nodded.

After the craft store, we made our way over to Old Navy, whose enormous 75% window clings were too much temptation to bare. I was going through the clearance items when a deep voice from an aisle away said, "We have a princess in the store today!"

I immediately looked down at Maggie, who was looking up at me confused.

"He's talking about you, love," I informed her, smiling.

Maggie looked toward the aisle, where the Old Navy employee approached from. He was young, maybe college aged, with a shaved head and erring on the hipster side of fashion. He spoke directly to Maggie, crouching down so he was eye-level.

"Your dress! It's beautiful! What's your name?" he asked.

She looked up at me shyly before answering him. "Elsa," she said.

"Oh, I'm so sorry. We don't have a princess in our store today. We have a queen!" he proclaimed exuberantly.

I watched Maggie take this in, her smile sheepish but proud. He spent another minute engaging her, complimenting her dress and thanking her for gracing him with her presence, before politely excusing himself.

We waved goodbye, and I continued looking around the store. Maggie-Elsa continued to walk behind me, but I couldn't help noticing the transformation that had taken place since our encounter. She stood taller, and looked in the mirror, assessing her dress.

"He really thinks I'm a real princess," she told me.

She looked people in the eye as we walked, nodding, and making jovial conversation with pretend kingdom visitors. Maggie acted like royalty because she believed the notion that she was royalty. Because someone else believed she was exactly who she thought she was, who she wanted to be.

When I was a social worker, we often discussed self-fulfilling prophecies. In the field of child protective services, it was the phenomenon that a child, particularly in a situation of abuse and neglect, is told negative things over and over again from their caregiver.

"You're stupid."
"You'll never amount to anything."
"You'll turn into a drunk just like your father."

And, in turn, the child takes these words to heart and they inadvertently come true. It's as though the parent believing these negative things about their own child wills them to become truths. I watched these situations become reality, with kids fulfilling these negative parental prophesies without even realizing they were doing it. It had become so engrained, it's all they knew to become.

Our words, our beliefs, have power.

We must wield them wisely.

I watched how a positive vision, believing that a little girl was a princess, made all the difference. We all want our kids to do well. We want them to thrive, to grow, to excel. I wonder, though, if we fall short of believing what they could be. Of believing in what they aren't yet, but could become.

I realized from watching the princess encounter at Old Navy that there is a difference between encouraging our kids and giving them a vision. It's one thing to say, "I know you can write." And another to say, "You are a great writer." One supposes untapped potential; the other assumes the potential is realized.

What if we began believing in what our kids will become. Believing it, even if it isn't yet realized, but claiming the belief and believing it for our kids?

How might that increase their confidence, their self-esteem?

This morning, Maggie was, if even for a few minutes, truly a princess. And maybe princesses aren't your thing (they aren't particularly mine). But perhaps next time it's believing they are a teacher. A healer. A leader. An engineer. Believing that they not only have the potential to change the world, but that they will.

That they already are.

If you give a kid a compliment, they'll feel good for a few minutes.

But if you give a kid a vision - a positive, uplifting, motivating vision - they might just prove you right.

To Pat from Old Navy in Exton: thank you. You gave both me and my daughter something to think on today.

Gifts for Music Lovers: Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, Oh My!

2015-12-21T14:01:00.001-05:00

The Holidays are about the things we return to over and over. We watch White Christmas every December. We attend the same parties each year; it’s been so long, we don’t even need an invitation anymore. We just know when and where to be. We cook up all the special recipes, shake up the same drinks, and curl up with our kids to read the same stories.

And none of it ever gets old. In fact, the true test of any newcomer to the holiday scene is its longevity. Has Will Ferrell’s Elfworked its way into our holiday routine for enough consecutive years? Have we listened to Sufjan Stevens’ Silver and Goldalbums for long enough to consider them canonical Christmas cheer?

In the realm of popular music, I recently had the chance to re-experience some uncontested classics. Like the eggnog you break out once a year, or that favorite tacky Christmas cardigan, listening to these albums feels comfortable. And though they aren’t “holiday albums” (a fact in which most readers will probably find some relief) something about this season’s emphasis on nostalgia made it the perfect time to re-listen to these favorites.

First and foremost, is Simon & Garfunkel’s Complete Columbia Album Collection. It’s a box set that includes all five of the harmonious duo’s Columbia records: Wednesday Morning, 3 AM; Sounds of Silence; Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme; Bookends; and Bridge Over Troubled Water; in addition to 1972’s Simon & Garfunkel’s Greatest Hits, which includes some non-LP singles and rare live performances.

These five albums represent the bulk of Simon & Garfunkel’s important work, and if you’re looking for a favorite track, it’s likely here. Pressed in heavy 180 gram vinyl, these LPs carry the original tunes with the same warmth as the original releases in the 60s and 70s, and also include a digital download card for each album so you can enjoy the music wherever you like.

And if you’re a stickler for authenticity, each album cover reproduces the original art.

I’ve enjoyed introducing these albums to my kids, just as I remember discovering my parents’ Simon & Garfunkel LPs when I was young.

The second trip down memory lane revisits three of Bob Dylan’s biggest and most important albums: The Cutting Edge 1965-1966: The Bootleg Series Vol. 12 (Deluxe Edition) includes the best unreleased recordings from Bringing It All Back Home, Highway 61 Revisited, and Dylan’s electric debut, Blonde on Blonde.

These recordings provide a rare glimpse into the creative process of Dylan at the height of his 60s popularity. It’s available in three formats: the two disc “Best Of” set, a Deluxe edition box set of six discs, or an exhaustive 18-disc Collector’s Edition, which includes, “every note recorded during the 1965-1966 sessions, every alternate take and alternate lyric.”

Where the Simon & Garfunkel albums made for a familiar trip down memory lane, authentically recreated in the most minute details, the Dylan recordings take a familiar set of albums and transform them into fresh experiences altogether.

Fit and Fresh Gifts for Women

2015-12-15T08:51:00.002-05:00

If you're still looking for a few stocking stuffer ideas for the women in your life, I've got 2 great suggestions that are both unique and useful.

Unique and useful are two of my favorite qualities in a gift, by the way.

I've had a great time checking out the Fit & Fresh brand, and sharing with you some of the great products they have to offer. So far, I've mainly focused on lunches and lunch boxes for kids. Today, I'm diving into the world of awesome products Fit & Fresh makes for adults. And I think you're going to dig it.

I recently got to give two cool Fit & Fresh items a spin: the Retro Insulated Lunch Bag and the Jaxx Shaker Bottle.

My love of the Retro Insulated Lunch Bag is purely aesthetic: It's just a chic way to tote your lunch to work or school! The round handles are easy to grip and the bag has a simple magnet snap to keep it closed. It will easily fit your lunch, containers and a water bottle - it's bigger than it looks! The 'Retro' includes a removable non-toxic ice pack to keep your healthy food chilled and fresh. The gray PEVA lining is easy to clean and PVC free, and the extra thick insulation keeps food cool and fresh

Anyone who is on a fitness kick will love the Jaxx Shaker Bottle. The Jaxx is essentially a mixing system. So if you drink protein or health shakes, it's the perfect bottle to grab and go. But parents can benefit from this too! It's a great way to tote and mix formula on-the-go! The key is the Jaxx agitator designed to powerfully mix even the thickest powdered drink or smoothie. No clogs, clumps or leaks!

Stuff those stockings with products you can feel good about!

Check out the whole Fit & Fresh line - and happy lunching!

2015 Gift Guide: Gifts That Encourage Learning and Creativity

2015-12-10T11:01:00.002-05:00

* This post contains affiliate links.

Now that we've had this whole parenting thing under our belt for over seven years (I know. We're surprised, too), it's safe to say our lives our pretty inundated with toys. While we are not curmudgeonly, we are selective and thoughtful with the gifts we give our girls during the holidays. But after close to a decade of buying toys and being gifted toys, it adds up. TO SO MANY TOYS.

Over the past few years, we've started purging our toy collection, weeding out toys they've outgrown and coming to terms with toys they just plain don't play with. It's been helpful, as what remains are the toys the girls truly enjoy.

So our focus when buying gifts is not only the "fun factor," but the enhancement factor. No, I'm not looking for toys that promise to raise my daughter's IQ 20 points. Rather, I research and seek gifts that encourage learning and creativity while also falling into categories of their interests. Chica loves to doodle. Bug loves challenging her knowledge in a competitive way. Quiz her on what she knows, and she thrives.

There is room in fun for education and imagination. So these are toys that I not only don't mind buying, but I know adds something special to playtime.

Here are a few things on the Learning and Creative Toy List that will be under our tree:

Code Master

In Code Master, your Avatar will travel to an exotic world in search of power Crystals. Kids learn how to step through code and understand the logic and sequence behind a computer’s actions. Kids will be entertained while developing an understanding of computer programming principles. For all 60 levels, you’ll have to use programming logic to help your Avatar collect the Crystals and land at the Portal. Think carefully, in each level, only one specific sequence of actions will lead to success. Available exclusively at Target and t arget .com. (Ages 8+)

Compose Yourself

Created by maestro cellist and composer Philip Sheppard – who recently scored the Star Wars trailer!), Compose Yourself is a set of musical “building bricks” that encourages anyone with any musical ability to “play with” music just as they would with a construction kit. The digital music game features a deck of transparent cards and access to an exclusive website to compose, share with friends and family, or download/print your own custom sheet music – featuring more than a billion melody combinations. Available exclusively at Amazon. (Ages 6+).

Laser Maze Jr.

Your mission: Expertly transport the laser beam to the rockets so that it can safely return to earth! Younger players can now experience the fun of the award-winning game Laser Maze with an age-appropriate design and challenge for grade school children with real lasers. Available on Amazon and neighborhood toy stores. (Ages 6+).

LEGO Classic Large Creative Brick Box

No specific instructions. Just a bunch of colorful bricks and anything your imagination can come up with! I love that the classic LEGOS are simple and require kids to dream. Stored in an adorable lego-shaped container, this 790 piece set contains a variety of colors and pieces for building anything and everything. The Classic set is the perfect complement to other Lego sets but is just as fun on its own!

Art Supplies

It's the simple things. And simply putting together a gift basket of fun art supplies is the gift that keeps on giving all year 'round! For younger kids, consider a ream of paper, stickers, crayons and a stamp set.

For older kids, upgrade to professional sketch padsand a proper art set.

School Zone Little Scholar Tablet

The Little Scholar Tablet is pre-loaded with over 200 premium educational apps, e-books, videos, and songs! Curriculum areas covered are math, reading, spelling, science and more! Includes a BRIGHT BLUE easy grip protective bumper, front and rear facing camera, and the A+ Reporting app for parents to track children's progress. No Wi-Fi needed with this kid-safe learning environment. Ages 3 to 7. Grades K to 1.

Personalized Storybooks

While reading can be a fun endeavor, all kids need a little push and motivation. This is especially true of new and emerging readers. And there are few things more inspiring than seeing your own name and story in a book!

Mabel's Labels now offers personalized storybooks. We have the My Adventures with Disney's Frozen for each girl. The books incorporate fun facts about each girl: their names, where they live, their birthday and even a few of their friends names! The personalized items are woven into the familiar story of Frozen. There are several different story options, including Cars, Frozen Fever, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Paw Patrol, Spider-Man, Star Wars, Barbie, Ninja Turtles and Sophia.

And a bonus!

Mabel's Labels

We tend to lose things. Like. A LOT. So I wanted to throw out the lifesaver that is Mabel's Labels. Mabel's offers a variety of peel-and-stick labels that can withstand anything a lively child throws at it. The labels are waterproof, so you can stick them on containers that are thrown in the dishwasher AND you can stick them on clothes (!!!) and run them through the washer. Say what? They're also microwave safe.

They're literally amazing.

We have personalized labels for both Bug and Chica, and they come in all shapes and sizes, suited for whatever we need to stick them on. Mabel's also makes Bag Tags, which are metal with a clip. Attach them to book bags, gym bags, sleepover bags, suitcases, etc.

Label all of your school items for 2016 and maybe those educational toys too ;)

*****

As we continue to do our holiday shopping (which most likely will happen up until the last minute), I'll be sure to add any new toys and games I come across to the list.

Happy holidays!

Holiday Prep with Giant Food Stores

2015-12-09T14:04:00.003-05:00

I. Love. The. Holidays.

LOVE them.

I love the excitement, the food, the music, the visitors, the parties, the decorating, the EATING, the events, the gift and cookie exchanges and did I mention holiday food?

As much as I love the togetherness of the holidays, I often stress about the preparation.

Planning a party or getting your house ready for holiday visitors is not a task for the faint of heart. Sure, we think about heading to the grocery store to stock up on food and drinks. Yes, we whip up the perfect holiday playlists to play softly in the background. And don't forget the pine-and-cinnamon scented candle to complete your holiday regime.

But, it's the behind-the-scenes stuff that takes us by surprise, stressing us out and depleting our storehouses of holiday spirit.

To ease the pain of seasonal stress, here are 5 things to grab at Giant Food Stores and have on hand to make your holiday entertaining a breeze:

Reusable Containers
This is a MUST. When the eating portion of your party is winding down, having reusable containers to throw leftover food into is a god-send. That way, you can get food into the fridge instead of leaving it out to fester, and you can happily send leftovers home with guests as they leave. Easy, peasy.

Cleaning Supplies
Don't endure that moment of chaotically getting ready for the party and remembering, with just an hour before guests arrived, that you forgot to clean the bathrooms? Having Giant brand cleaning supplies on hand make that last-minute cleaning a breeze. I love their cleanser sanitizing wipes, which help me to quickly wipe down counters, sinks and toilets. They are also great to have on hand to quietly spot clean during the party because I CANNOT HELP MYSELF.

Semi-Homemade Food
Cooking and baking should be the LAST of your worries when entertaining. Take the stress out of the kitchen by going semi-homemade with a few items. Grab some of the pre-made appetizers and dips from Giant's Simply Enjoy line or their Homemade Pancake Mix. Guests don't have to know it wasn't made from scratch (your secret is safe with me).

Painkillers
Because, let's be honest. This is one of the most important things. Also? It's nice to have medicinal items on hand in case a guest is in need. I hardly ever buy the name brand painkillers, as I've found the Giant Care One brand works just as efficiently for a fraction of the cost. WINNING.

Paper Plates, Napkins and Utensils
Give the dishwasher a night off. When guests visit, using disposable supplies makes everything so much easier. Instead of scrubbing dishes, just pop it all in the trash when you are done, and you are free to keep socializing. It's my favorite. Also? We use the Giant Brand disposable plates, cups and utensils ALL. THE. TIME. They are the least expensive on the shelf, but top-notch quality.

Are you ready to stock up for holiday prep at Giant Food Stores?

In the name of holiday preparation, Giant is giving one of my readers a $25 gift card! Get ready to be PREPARED and WIN (see what I did there?)!

To enter, fill out the rafflecopter below. The giveaway will run until next Wednesday, 12/16, at 12pm. Happy winning!

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Holiday Beauty Tips + $25 Giant Gift Card Giveaway

2015-12-01T13:55:00.001-05:00

If you're anything like me, you have a Holiday Style Pinterest board. I spend the year scouting the holiday season's best looks, from outfits to hair and make up. I have a ton of big events to attend during the holiday season. But when I do head out to a holiday soiree (WITHOUT KIDS - hallelujah) or Christmas Eve with my family, I like to bring my fashion A-Game.

Which to most people is probably closer to an L-game or M-game.

But I try.

In my scouting, I've found some great beauty and fashion trends this year. Here are 5 holiday beauty tips to inspire you:

Go Classic
Harken back to classic looks. I'm piecing together this traditional skirt + blouse combo this holiday season:

Go Simple
Holiday style does not have to be complicated. I'm LOVING this look, and wondering why I never thought to create this simple holiday outfit:

Black skinnies and a black blouse with a statement necklace. GENIUS.

Red and Green: Don't Put Your Hands Together
On one of my favorite Friends episodes, Chandler asks Joey if he had to choose Monica's homemade jam or the girl from the Xerox place "buck naked." Joey's response? Put your hands together! This is advice NOT to follow during the holiday season. Red and green are traditional holiday colors - and can be amazing as accents to a holiday outfit, individually. Opt for a red blouse with black leggings or a green dress. Try to avoid adding both colors to the same outfit.

All is Shimmery and Bright
Shimmer is the name of the game for holiday makeup. Go for a pale gold or silver eyeshadow so it is not overpowering. It will be enough to make a statement and give you that holiday glow!

Use The Right Tools
Getting the perfect holiday look starts with the right tools. Until recently I did not have makeup brushes (I know, cue weeping and gnashing of teeth). Then I found out about the new Et os line of beauty products at Giant Food Stores, and I was sold!

Etos is a simple European beauty brand that's been around since 1919. I love the quality, which allowed me to try new looks with eyeshadow that I wasn't able to before. Quality here does not mean you break the bank, either. The Etos brand is affordable and easily found at all Giant locations.

Are you ready to get glam for the holidays with Etos at Giant Food Stores?

In the name of holiday beauty, Giant is giving one of my readers a $25 gift card! Get ready to win and TREAT YO' SELF!

To enter, fill out the rafflecopter below. The giveaway will run until next Wednesday, 12/9, at 12pm. Happy winning!

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Mirror Maze: Now Open at the Franklin Institute! {GIVEAWAY!}

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The Cast

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NOW PLAYING at Arden Theatre: The Light Princess {GIVEAWAY}

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Steph's (Semi) Ultimate Gift Guide 2016

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Discussion Questions about Race and Justice for Families | An American Girl Story - Melody 1963: Love Has to Win

Discussion Questions forAn American Girl Story - Melody 1963: Love Has to Win

Discussion Questions forAn American Girl Story - Melody 1963: Love Has to Win

Treat Yo'self: 5 Healthy After School Snack Ideas with Giant Food Stores {GIVEAWAY}

Granola Bars

Carrots and Ranch Dressing

Granola Chips, Almond Butter and Special Toppings

Organic Fruit Twists

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Group It Up

Section It Out

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GIVEAWAY: The Franklin Institute's The Science Behind Pixar

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Go Green For Earth Day with Giant Food Stores! {GIVEAWAY}

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Roasted Butternut Squash, Apple and Chorizo White Pizza with Ricotta Garlic Herb Spread

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Gifts for Music Lovers: Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, Oh My!

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Art Supplies

Holiday Prep with Giant Food Stores

Holiday Beauty Tips + $25 Giant Gift Card Giveaway

Giveaway

Giveaway

Discussion Questions for
An American Girl Story - Melody 1963: Love Has to Win

Discussion Questions for
An American Girl Story - Melody 1963: Love Has to Win