Top Picks from the 2017 New York Baby Show

@NewYorkBabyShow ‏#MTBloggerLounge

The 2017 New York Baby Show was the place to be! One of the nice things about having a baby (my third) and going to the New York Baby Show is I get to look with the eyes of a new mom while being a seasoned mom. I’ve seen it all, and I know what works. I love to find new things that rock it up.

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Prince Lionheart

One of the most ingenious products I found was the yet to be released Prince Lionheart Illuminating Changing Pad. It’s a changing pad (or a conversion kit if you already have one) that offers a light between the baby’s feet. You simply tap it and the light goes on, you can change your baby unobtrusively, and then tap it again to turn off. Absolutely genius.

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Pello

Another brilliant item was the Pello Comfy Cradle pillow. Think a muff meets a water wing but for the nursing mom. It cushions your arm and raises the baby up closer to you. Know how an older baby is heavy when you nurse? Well this solves the problem as their little heard rests on the pillow on your arm. I’ve used it all week. Game changer. Also from Pello check out the Multi-use Luxe Baby-Toddler Floor Pillow/Play Mat/Lounger a multifunctional pillow mat.

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Rumina

Another great nursing product was the Rumina Seamless Pump&Nurse Nursing Bra. It’s the only no-hole nursing bra that seamlessly goes from nursing to pumping. Even without an underwire it was supportive and comfortable. I love the soft, removable pads, they felt so luxurious! Even better they’re partnering with Evenflo – my favorite pump.

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Safe Traffic

The Safe Traffic System Ride Safer Travel Vest was another top pick. This product converts a regular seat belt into a three point harness. Absolutely genius – and an amazing find – for someone living without a car in a city or for someone with little trunk real estate for an extra carpool booster. I love it.

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Oribel

Continuing the idea of good for small spaces, I loved the VertiPlay toys from Oribel, especially the Goofy Moose. They stick to your wall! No floor space needed! I also thought their PortaPlay 4-in-1 Foldable Activity Center was a best in show. It starts as a jumping/activity center, then transforms into a table. But wait! The legs collapse making it virtually flat and you can easily store it in closet. You can buy matching stools and even make it into an art table with their art paper roll dispenser. Genius!

2017 New York Baby Show Find: UpSpring

I was super impressed by the full line of products from UpSpring. But even better – some of their post natal products are covered by insurance (read: free!). Check out their Shrinkx Belly Bamboo Charcoal Post Pregnancy Belly Wrap and C-Panty High Waist C-Section Recovery & Slimming Underwear. But even more interesting to me was their Milkflow Fenugreek and Blessed Thistle Powder Berry Drink Mix. It’s the only powdered drink mix you can add to your beverage to help increase your milk supply. It even comes in chocolate flavor!

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Tray Haven

Have a baby who likes to laugh at you while dropping their dinner on the floor? Me too. Check out the High Chair and Stroller Adaptable Containment Barrier from Tray Haven. Think a soft mesh fence around your child. Take that, baby.

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Sassy Locks

Sassy Locks is a new company to me and they had the most beautiful handmade custom clothes. I loved these pacifier holders. Check them out for beautiful dresses and fun, cheeky onesies.

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Luv Bug

Luv Bug Company UPF 50+ Sun Protection Blanket had beautiful thin blankets with sunscreen built in, great feeling waterproof crib sheets, and adorable reusable snack bags.

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Keekaroo

I thought this Keekaroo Peanut Diaper Changer was so so smart. Not a new product, but new to me. It is a Dura-Soft changing pad with raised edges adding a wall for rollers.

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Chatbooks

I hope you’ve seen this hysterical commercial from Chatbooks – about a busy mom of three. If not, stop what you’re doing and watch it right now. You’re gonna laugh so hard you may snort. Chatbooks is an app that takes your phone’s pictures and quickly makes them into a high quality photo book.

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Bamboobies

Have to give a shout out to Bamboobies. Besides a great name and even better stickers, their products were soft and pretty and fun. I love that their Super Soft Washable Nursing Pads are hearts. I also loved their Chic Nursing Shawl.

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Mabel’s Labels

As always it was great to see my friends from Mabel’s Labels. Excited for Ben to have his first labels and even more excited for labels with just our last name on them. Sometimes I need to label a multi-kid used item and suffer from label identity stress (it’s a thing… look it up.) Love the giraffes. Check out Mabel’s Labels for camp, daycare, school, allergy alerts or anything you need to fulfill your labeling desires.

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Sage Spoonfuls

Carrying on the giraffe theme, it was great seeing Sage Spoonfuls – the maker of my favorite baby food storage jars – with their new line of Reusable Sandwich and Snack Bags. Plus, the giraffe is eating broccoli, amazing. They also just introduced the only stand up 7oz Squeezie Reusable Food Pouch. Their products, including their Baby Food Maker – Immersion Hand Blender and Food Processor make being a baby food chef easy as pie (don’t give your baby pie).

2017 New York Baby Show Find: FridaBaby

Great seeing FridaBaby and their new Smile Frida Toddler Toothbrush. This three headed toothbrush (whaa?) hits kid’s teeth from all angles so they can’t miss a spot. Also loved their new medicine dispenser that’s part syringe, part pacifier (coming out soon) and their ergonomic nail file – the SnipperClipper – that sways with your child’s nail for easy filing.

MomsRising.org

Love the message of MomsRising.org. Check out their site.

In conclusion – my goal for this post was to highlight my top three favorite things of the New York Baby Show. As you can see I went a little over three. With so many great products I couldn’t resist… I lost count at 18! I hope you enjoy some of these innovative new products too!

Thanks Canon for the great picture!

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Real Mom Life, Family Travel & Everyday Chaos

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Dear John (Deere): For Your Budding Little Landscape Architect!

The perfect gift for your little landscape architect!

The Mint Chip Mama - Little Landscape Architect

I have the quintessential little boy. Trucks, trains, fire trucks, police cars, construction “vehicles”, tractors, boats, wheels, dirt. All rolled into a smiling three and a half year old.

Last year, on a day when we had nothing scheduled, I brought him to a John Deere store to simply look around. He was in heaven. He even insisted on bringing home one of their product catalogs so I could read it to him at night as his bedtime story.

Tomy’s Lawn and Garden Set

You can imagine how fast I agreed to review TOMY‘s new Lawn & Garden Set (complete with a retractable cord trimmer, trowel and mini hand rake).

It was the perfect new toy for my wannabe little landscape architect!

As expected, before I finished taking it out of the box it was out of my hands. The perfect size for a three year old, he immediately got to work getting the weeds out of my living room carpet.

Let’s Take It Outside To Try

As we moved the party outside, he went to town. Having watched our gardener trim the lawn earlier in the day, he knew just what to do.

With it’s easy to pull cord, he got the popping beads to make a great, authentic noise so he could trim to his heart’s desire.

Lightweight and easy to hold even for the littlest gardener, he maneuvered around with ease feeling like a big boy.

We’re a big gardening family so he was also excited to have his own hand rake to use and wanted to get to work right away.

But by far, his favorite thing was pretending to be the “park man”. With that said, my son’s favorite part of a park is the gardening tools cart. He likes to just stand there, look at it, point and name them. Sometimes the nice workers will let him sit in the cart and pretend he is driving it.

Now he can be his own park man. If I could say this went on for hours it would not be an understatement. As you can see from his new outfit, days even!

If you have a little one who also loves to garden, is a little landscape architect, or is equally enthralled by the “park man” you should definitely check out the John Deere Lawn & Garden Set by Tomy.

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Engine, Engine, Number 9, on the Historic PA Railroad Transit Line…

If you’re choo-choo-choosing activities perfect for your locomotive lovin’ family this season, check out the historic PA railroad – The Strasburg Railroad. This 185 year old steam engine extravaganza is in Strasburg, PA.

Trains Make Kids Happy!

If you have a train happy kid they will be beyond thrilled to make a visit. Besides the old time steam engines that have been operating for close to two centuries, there are all kind of fun activities to do, keeping your kids outside and busy for hours!

Our adventure began taking a ride on the historic PA railroad train overlooking the beautiful Lancaster farmland. As we chugged ahead in our open air train car we were able to take advantage of the breeze while still being covered from the sun. Inside Outside perfection.

Tons Of Fun Activities After The Train Ride

Après-train, we spent several hours meandering around the station enjoying the “fun extras” including mini stream trains and pump cars. But hands down my kid’s favorite attraction was the cranky cars.

These hand-propelled cars (perfectly size for both my seven year old and three year old) date back to the 1930s, and allow little ones to crank their way around a train track.

Thank goodness the line was short, as I’d estimate they went on roughly 400 times – laughing hysterically each time.

But before I mock, I should say I’m pretty sure I have the same exact picture of me at this age, at this same historic PA railroad, doing the same exact thing, in the same exact location!

Thomas The Tank Engine Visits This Historic PA Railroad!

If your kid’s jam is Thomas then a visit to this historic PA railroad is a must during their Day Out With Thomas event. With photo ops galore and some extra activities available, all your kid’s dreams can come true with their #1 light blue friend.

Events Galore At This Historic PA Railroad

If the Sodor obsession has sailed, check out The Strasburg Railroad’s other great upcoming events including The Great Train Robbery.

Not sure yet when you can locomo-tivate to go? (sorry) You can buy tickets at anytime online making it nice and easy to visit this historic PA railroad.

If your visit spans lunchtime, check out their dining car or the beautiful Picnic Groves. I’ve always wanted to eat in the dining car of a train… sounds so romantic. Someone watch my kids.

If Your Kid Is A History Buff

If you like to rock it Andrew Jackson style, this family attraction is for you. For the history buffs out there, it’s cool to learn how the The Strasburg Railroad – the oldest continuously operating railroad in the western hemisphere – got to be such a giant and how it was integral to the area’s success. The Strasburg Railroad is a great place to visit on your Lancaster adventure.

There are so many wonderful destinations in the Amish Country. The hardest part of planning a vacation there is finding enough time to do them all. Happy travels!

Don’t forget to check out all the family friendly vacation spots we’ve researched!

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Check out these classic family movies from the ‘80s and ‘90s — perfect for cozy nights and sharing the timeless favorites you grew up loving with your kids!

📍Follow @themintchipmama on Instagram for real-life moments, parenting fun, perimenopause talk, beauty tips, food finds, and more.

The Crayola Experience In Easton, PA. What A Great Family Day!

@VisitCrayola #VisitCrayola #magicofcolor

The Mint Chip Mama - The Crayola Experience

Who doesn’t love arts & crafts? In my family – from the age of eight months to thirty eight years, we all love creating. Upon booking our first family ski trip to the Poconos, we knew immediately the best place to stop enroute would be the Crayola Experience, in Easton, PA!

We Are Excited To Return To A Family Favorite!

Back in 2012, on our first visit (and prior to the expansive renovations), we ventured to the Crayola Experience as an easy day trip from Manhattan.

Since moving to the suburbs, and subsequently having two more children, we have been looking for an opportunity to return. The timing could not have been better. My seven year old and three year old went to town. Meanwhile, I enjoyed the baby friendly facility (including a nursing room on the 2^nd floor!). There was literally something there for everyone.

The Crayola Experience In Easton, PA. What A Great Family Day!

Floors and Floors of Crayola Fun!

Bursting with four floors of color, we began our creative journey at the top. While I waited on the short line for Melt and Mold, my kids were at Meltdown. Think painting directly from the belly of a giant Crayola crayon – the kids dipped brushes into melted wax and “painted” their creations.

Melt And Mold

Next, it was Melt and Mold time. Here the kids put a crayon into one of three machines and watched it melt, drip down, and mold into a dinosaur, ring or Crayola swirl. My kids thought this was fascinating! We spent a good amount of time here and made souvenirs for pretty much everyone we know.

Drip Art

Our last stop was Drip Art – Crayola’s take on spin art. As a child, spin art was my jam, so I eagerly awaited my turn right behind my kids. Yanking the throttle to control the speed of the spinner, my son pretended he was on a rocket ship as the crayon wax dripped into a beautiful circular design. It’s safe to say this exhibit was a winner.

Activity Studio

Feeling like we successfully conquered the fourth floor, we headed down to the third floor. Here my kids had tunnel vision to the jungle explorer in the Activity Studio. A HUGE two story jungle gym with twist, turns, slides, and climbing galore meant they were in heaven (and I could sit down for twenty minutes – yay)! I watched them have the best time and even ran back up to the fourth floor to snap a quick picture of them in one of the clear lookout bubbles.

Doodle In The Dark

After some begging, I got them to move on to the Doodle in the Dark area. This great (dark) space provided large neon doodle boards on the walls, an animated dance floor, and an interactive dancing experience where a Crayola crayon copied your moves. Let’s just say Mr. Purple pulled out some impressive choreography!

Art Alive

Heading down to the second floor, we found ourselves mesmerized by the Art Alive area – where your iPad creation magically transports into a live animation on the wall.

Molding Madness

But once they saw the Molding Madness area they started running. Loving the vending machine and the crafting equally, they put in the provided tokens and picked their Crayola Model Magic colors.

Be A Star

If your kids are like mine and seek out shows and character meet and greets, this is the floor for you. We not only met Mr. Green, we saw crayons being made at the Crayola Factory show and were transported into the two dimensional world of a coloring page in the Be A Star studio.

Favorites of ours on both visits, these are all not to be missed.

Wrap It Up!

As our grand finale exhibit, we created custom crayons by picking a color, logo, and name at Wrap It Up! Once the label printed out we used the machines to attach it to the provided crayon making it an official Crayola color. Woot!

As our time at the Crayola Experience came to an end, and we exited through the colorful gift shop – loot bags in hand – we once again agreed the “Experience” was a success.

Perfect as a day trip or enroute to one of the many fun things to do in the Poconos, the Crayola Experience is a great place to spend the day. If you live in the area, check out their special events. Wish I could do a Mom’s Night Out here!

Don’t forget to check out all the family friendly vacation spots we’ve researched!

****Giveaway****

Know what’s even more fun than coloring? Winning an annual pass to color as much as you want! The nice people at the Crayola Experience have offered to giveaway 2 annual passes to The Mint Chip Mama readers!

To win comment below: What is your favorite arts and crafts/creative thing to do with your kids? Winner chosen Thursday, February 23, 2017at 5pm EST! (Drum roll) the winner is Jen H!

But even better – everyone is a winner! Follow this link to save $3 off your admission tickets! The code to access the tickets is: Chip. With the school break next week it’s a great time to go!

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📍Follow @themintchipmama on Instagram for real-life moments, parenting fun, perimenopause talk, beauty tips, food finds, and more.

Fire & Ice – Great Family Fun at Camelback Resort!

Camelback Resort

Skiing is a sport people love – unless you’re me – and your skill level is “drinking hot chocolate” (I’ve come to terms with it, I’m ok). Enter Camelback Resort. I married a skier who doesn’t get to go very often (see above) who swore he’d raise our kids to be skiers. But when is the right time to bring a kid on their first ski trip? Luckily that question was answered when we were invited to the Momtrends Winter Break at Camelback Mountain last weekend. The time in now, people!

Some Things Never Change

Ironically I grew up going to the Camelback Resort area annually, just never skiing, so it was a fitting location for my family’s first ski trip. The kids were beyond excited; it was barely containable in the car. Not only did we promise them a day of snow activities – like skiing and snow tubing, but a grand finale at Aquatopia – the largest indoor water park on the East Coast.

Camelback Resort’s Kids Ski Lessons

Camelback Resort’s Kids 90-Minute Beginner Lesson Package had everything we needed – including a full day lift ticket and equipment rental. We followed the easily marked, fool proof “step” system to get boots and skis, then headed right outside to the private Children’s Learning Area (aka minimal things to complain about for a first time ski boot wearer who wants to carry their own skis like a big shot).

Perfect for kids aged 4-12, they learned how to put on equipment, stand, balance, walk, get up and glide. This self contained area was drop off, so parents (read: my husband) could enjoy a few runs while the kids were in ski school. I was simply happy to sit and watch the big waves and smiles coming from the “magic carpet”.

We not only lucked out with the weather (50 degrees!) but met the nicest staff, making our first ski experience a positive one.

My daughter loved it and was good! As soon as the lesson ended she wanted to go on the bunny slope with my husband. He happily took her.

Not Everyone Loves To Ski

My little guy – like his mom – decided the hot chocolate trail was the right one for him. I can respect that. We headed into the bright, window filled dining area of the main base lodge to rock our Après–ski.

The first half of our day came to a great close.

Aquatopia

On to the second half – Aquatopia!

We headed to our car – parked in preferred parking (well worth the upcharge, the same price as a locker but you get proximity and storage) – and made our way over. Although Camelback Resort offers a shuttle we opted to drive so the kids could take a quick nap.

Camelback Lodge

Excitement grew as we approached Camelback Lodge and saw colorful slide tubes going in and out of the building.

We entered – wow.

Besides Aquatopia (the 125,000 square foot, two level, indoor water park), Camelback Resort Lodge offers Arcadia Entertainment Center – filled with an indoor ropes/adventure park, “win a ticket” games galore, a paint your own pottery place, a huge candy store, mini-golf, laser tag, and bowling! Yes, all under ONE roof!

As we headed to the family changing rooms, we past a swim up bar, private rental cabanas with TVs, a lazy river and 7 pools. We didn’t know where to begin!

At only three, I was curious how my son would do and WOW did he love it. Spending the majority of his time at Kartrite Quest, he zoomed down slides big enough for a thrill (and me – to nervously trail behind him!) but not too scary. We went approximately three million times before he conceded to a break in the Penguin Play Bay.

My daredevil daughter, on the other hand, was ready to climb the stairs to the eight over 48” ride area with the kind of slides a water park enthusiast dreams of (including the Venus Slydetrap, the only slide of its kind in the world)! My personal favorite was the water roller coaster Storm Chaser. I would have gone on a hundred more times if my husband let me. I mean if there was more time…

As the day ended, we quickly showered the kids (so they were bed-transfer ready) and headed out. As we drove off, the little snores we heard – almost immediately – confirmed that we had one heck of a great day.

Only a two hour-ish drive from Long Island made Camelback a great first stop to my kids becoming the next (enter name of a famous skier here). We will definitely return!

A few tips from The Mint Chip Mama for your fire and ice vacation!

Ski Tips:

Get to the mountain an hour before your lesson to allow for a relaxed equipment rental experience.
Be cool with your kid not liking skiing. Drinking hot chocolate is slated for the 2020 Olympics. Maybe they’ll like it next year.
“Bad ski weather” aka warm, misting rain, etc., is an awesome time for beginners because it keeps the crowds away.
Keep the tags on your new ski stuff so you can return if not used.

Water Park Tips:

Bring 2 sample size bottles of body wash/shampoo so you and your spouse can divide and conquer your post water park wash down.
No need to bring towels, they’re included (yay!).
Bring a plastic bag for wet suits.
Bring a puddle jumper if your kids can’t swim. Although life vests are available, kids can’t wear them on the slides and holding your breathe while your three year old goes down a slide into a shallow pool is a veeeeery long trip. PS – it was fine.

Overall Tips:

Pack separate bags for skiing and the water park; just grab the one you need.
Pack water bottles; refill them every time you have the option.
Pack 10x the snacks you think you’ll need. No, make that 20x.
Bring a chair, oh- just keep one in your trunk. It comes in handy more often than you’d expect.
Never underestimate a powernap to keep your kid and/or husband melt-down free.
Leave your baby home with your mom even if your husband says no. What? Did I say that?

Don’t forget to check out all the family friendly vacation spots we’ve researched!

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Feeling Nostalgic?

Check out these classic family movies from the ‘80s and ‘90s — perfect for cozy nights and sharing the timeless favorites you grew up loving with your kids!

📍Follow @themintchipmama on Instagram for real-life moments, parenting fun, perimenopause talk, beauty tips, food finds, and more.

Tis the Season for Turkey! Turkey Hill Experience, That Is!

With Thanksgiving approaching and everyone googling turkey recipes I sit here reminiscing about our recent Turkey Hill Experience and want to share my recipe. It’s an easy recipe – open lid, get spoon, scoop, and eat. Because people – without a doubt, my favorite type of turkey is Turkey Hill ice cream.

Do you agree?

If so I highly, highly recommend visiting the Turkey Hill Experience + Lab on your next visit to Lancaster, PA. A place where it’s always time to “talk turkey” (sorry).

Turkey HIll Is A Great Family Destination!

My family and I recently visited the fun, interactive (and delicious) Turkey Hill Experience and I must say – I am so glad we did. It was one of the clear highlights of our trip because – you know – ice cream! Not only was there plentiful samples, but there was fun stuff for the kids to play with and on, great family picture opportunities (you know I loves me a good stick-your-face-in-it thing), and my favorite – an opportunity to create my own flavor in their scientific, white lab coat wearing Taste Lab.

With three kids – ages six, three, and an infant, our one and only family vacation needed stroller friendly stops that could accommodate for multiple audiences. The Turkey Hill Experience with its nine interactive exhibit areas including the story of the Turkey Hill Dairy and how the company’s top-selling ice cream and iced tea flavors are selected and created kept my kids interested for hours.

Fun For Kids of All Ages

While my daughter could read and learn, my son could milk a mechanical cow, go in ball pits, swirl down slides, and sit in a milk truck. The baby – well – he was just excited to sample the flavors later on from his own personal dairy cow. Moo.

Besides the above, this colorful and eye pleasing space offered a digital “create your own ice cream flavor” which walked you through several exhibits allowing you to create your own ice cream package and even film a commercial!

Turkey Hill Taste Lab

But my favorite activity of all was the Taste Lab. For a few dollars more you could go behind locked doors into the dream-come-true land of create your own ice cream flavor using all kinds of tastes and toppings (or as they say – flavoring, inclusions, and variegates). Well worth it, you not only get to play scientist but you learn more fun facts about the Dairy and brand and get to tour the facility eating your creation.

Turkey Hill Loves The Environment

More than just a delicious Dairy, as a proud tree hugger, you can imagine my excitement when I learned about Turkey Hill’s sustainability and environmental impact-reduction projects including the adaptive reuse and rehabilitation of the building that houses the Turkey Hill Experience. As strong advocates for preserving the history, culture, and open spaces of Lancaster County, they decided to convert the 25 year old vacant Ashley & Bailey Silk Mill into their new ice cream oasis instead of new construction. Along the same lines, once inside you can find many creative little ways they used recycled material.

Have only a short time to visit but think it sounds fun!? Stop by and check out the fully stocked tongue in cheek gift shop or one of the few exhibits open to the public at no charge. I promise the next time, you’ll stay to play.

Seasonal Events

Looking for a fun holiday activity? Check out the Turkey Hill Experience Ice Cream with Santa offered from 6pm – 8pm on Saturday December 10^th and 17^th, 2016. A perfect time to visit and enjoy the beautifully decorated space – including several themed Christmas trees. Kids under twelve can create a holiday card that will be mailed to their special someone, listen to Santa read Christmas stories, make a Christmas craft, and enjoy a special Christmas ice cream treat and one of Mrs. Claus’ freshly baked cookies. Turkey Hill drinks will be provided during the event.

Designed by the same firm as The Hershey Story and the Connecticut Science Center, the Turkey Hill Experience, located at 301 Linden St., Columbia, PA 17512, directly off Route 30 at the Columbia exit, opened on June 4, 2011. For hours of operation please visit their schedule. I also HIGHLY recommended ordering tickets (in advance) online as all tours were sold out by the time we arrived.

Don’t forget to check out all the family friendly vacation spots we’ve researched!

What’s that saying?

Save a turkey, eat some ice cream!?

Happy Thanksgiving!

***Giveaway***

The Turkey Hill Experience would like to give away a family 4 pack of tickets to one lucky Mint Chip Mama reader!

To enter, please comment below with your favorite Turkey Hill ice cream flavor!

Winner will be chosen on Turkey Day, (November 24th, 2016) of course!

More on The Mint Chip Mama:
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Love to Travel? So Do We!

Feeling Nostalgic?

Check out these classic family movies from the ‘80s and ‘90s — perfect for cozy nights and sharing the timeless favorites you grew up loving with your kids!

📍Follow @themintchipmama on Instagram for real-life moments, parenting fun, perimenopause talk, beauty tips, food finds, and more.

Kevin Can Wait – Now Mondays at 8pm EST/ 7pm CT on CBS!

Kevin Can Wait – Mondays at 8pm EST/7pm CT on CBS stars Kevin James as a newly retired police officer looking forward to spending carefree, quality time with his wife and three kids, only to discover he faces tougher challenges at home than he ever did on the streets.

Long Island Television Studios!

Who knew right in my backyard a multi camera sitcom was being taped every week!? In Los Angeles they’re a dime a dozen, in New York City they’re common but on Long Island!? It’s a first!

When I was invited to visit the set of Kevin Can Wait I couldn’t resist. Besides loving the show it was literally eight minutes away from my house.

Kevin Can Wait Set Tour

The set tour was so cool. Especially, since I’ve never been on a sitcom set before. I loved walking through the “rooms” of a show I watch weekly and recognizing the props from where I saw them last – my living room!

I was amazed at the level of accuracy and authenticity the set had to the characters. Dressed like in a real family home with three kids, there was non-stop Mets memorabilia, nursing slogan water bottles, and even assembled Magna-Tiles at the base of the stairs juuust like in my house.

Q & A With Kevin James & Erinn Hayes

While on set we were lucky enough to sit down with the show’s two stars Kevin James and Erinn Hayes and the show’s Executive Producer/Director, Andy Fickman.

As you can imagine in a group of parent bloggers many questions came up about how the stars themselves parent both their real children (Kevin has 4, Erinn has 2) and their TV children. It was interesting to hear that the TV kids are older than both Erinn’s kids and Kevin’s kids so it’s fun for them because teenagers are unchartered territory.

Stars are just like us

And yes! Stars are just like us. I loved hearing how Erinn too used to drive around in a plotted out highway route so her kids could nap, while looking for a coffee drive thru. It was also nice to hear that just like our kids – their kids also get carsick and act like nuts!

Here are a few more highlights from our Kevin Can Wait Q & A:

Who are your comedic influenced?

Kevin: Jackie Gleason and John Candy – both big guys.

Erinn: Carol Burnett and Madeline Kahn. Goldie Hawn in Overboard – I just rewatched it recently, it was a Great performance.

(I agree it’s one of my favorites! I like it when she goes Buh Buh Buh Buh – which is how I feel at the end of the day with my three kids!)

How do you like doing a TV show vs. a movie?

Erinn: there’s longevity on TV and only one story in a movie. On a TV show you are exploring the lives of these people and are curious what’s coming. You can add to the characters as the show goes on.

Kevin: in a movie you can’t change the character once it’s over but with TV you can evolve the characters. There’s also a rhythm with a live audience – like with live stand-up comedy. With a movie there is no audience watching, with TV you get an immediate audience reaction.

How do you like filming on Long Island – for a show that takes place in Massapequa?

Kevin: I love filming on Long Island. It brings total authenticity. It’s just a different energy. Plus since this is the first show filmed here it’s like an exciting event. My wife is starting to love Long Island too. We love the change of seasons.

Erinn: I like the change of season too but my family is in Los Angeles so I go back every weekend.

What would you do when you really retire?

Erinn: I’d love to get a Volkswagen camper and go on little adventures.

Kevin: I have no end in sight. I love what I do.

Erinn: Me too!

Favorite places to eat on Long Island?

Kevin: Robkes, All American Burger, Umberto’s, Chris & Tony’s.

Erin – I was so shocked that strip malls have great food!

How does your Mets fan pride carry through?

Kevin: Before every show we sing “Meet the Mets” with the audience. We also have some players making cameos.

So what is the big thing “Kevin Can Wait” for?

For his retirement plans! You think life will go one way but it goes another. As Kevin (James) said – Want to make God laugh? Tell him your plans.

Now, isn’t that the truth…

Check out this week’s episode – “Hallow-We-Ain’t-Home” on Monday, October 31st at 8PM – CBS. On Halloween, Kevin and Donna’s neighbors “trick” them in holiday style when they pretend not to be home to avoid giving out candy. Also, Chale has an altercation with a man dressed as a Viking (Noah Syndergaard).

They spelled my name wrong – but they gave me a Gyro Bowl (Inside joke from the pilot episode)!

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Dutch Wonderland – A Fantastic Family Destination In Lancaster, Pennsylvania!

Dutch Wonderland – The Best Family Destination In Lancaster

Hear Ye Hear Ye.

If you’re looking for a fun weekend getaway, look no further than Dutch Wonderland – a family destination in Lancaster!

While the water rides are hibernating for the season, the dry rides & shows are plentiful and festivals are non-stop!

Amusement Parks Are Rites of Passage

Few things are a young family’s rite of passage like a road trip to an amusement park. So as a new family of five we decided to give it a go. We strategically planned our visit to Lancaster, PA in early September before our school started – but while most others were already in session. Off peak, off peak, off peak.

I should note I have been DYING to go to Dutch Wonderland for (give or take) thirty five years. As a child my parents and I frequented Amish country but as my Dad says “It was raining every time we tried to go”.

Uh..huh…

While I won’t say I specifically remember sun…. I’ll just say I never got to go – but I passed those castle gates many a time with my hand outstretched towards them and a tear in my eye.

Alas…

I vowed that one day, one day (!) my kids would get to walk through those castle gates. That day, people, was September 1^st, 2016.

My Dream Finally Came True At This Family Destination In Lancaster!

With three kids – six and a half, almost three, and three months we thought this was the perfect time to visit. I have to say – we were right!

The park is large in attractions but not overwhelming. While you could go on all the rides in one day the best offer around is to take advantage of the evening preview the night before. For us – with the earlier closing hour of 6pm – this was perfect. We arrived at 3pm and knocked out all of the “bigger” rides we knew would have lines the next day. I loved the preview not only for the efficient (and complimentary) aspect of it but also so I could plan our full day there with some knowledge of the park layout from my own eyes vs. the online map.

Rides For All Age Little Kids

My daughter loved the “bigger” rides but equally loved the smaller rides she could go on with her little brother. The rides were a bit edgier than our local amusement park so she was super excited. My son loved driving the cars and the train. I liked the “sitting and recharging” rides – read: train, monorail, and boat ride. As a parent – shade plus sitting is always a big, big win. The baby was excited for the new “Nursing Station”. But truthfully, I found the whole park nursing friendly with benches located all around.

There’s A Water Park Too! Hence The Best Family Destination In Lancaster

While the summer months (Memorial Day – Labor Day) are a great time to visit Dutch Wonderland to take advantage of Duke’s Lagoon, the Fall and Winter months are a killer time to go as well. Rides in jeans and a t-shirt vs. tank tops and sweat? Sign me up.

Seasonal Events

The 2016 season is still going strong. In the Fall there is Happy Hauntings (Saturdays and Sundays through October 30^th) featuring themed rides, special entertainment, tasty treats, and the Trick-or-Treat Trail (a safe, interactive trick-or-treating experience).

If you’re looking for a party – check out the Spook-tacular Halloween Bash (Saturday and Sunday October 29^th and 30^th) featuring music, dancing and more.

In the winter – on select dates from November 19^th to December 30^th you can check out the Dutch Winter Wonderland with rides, entertainment, and the Royal Light Show – a spectacular display of thousands of twinkling lights dancing to your favorite holiday tunes!

Giving Back

Want to do good and receive a complimentary ticket to Dutch Winter Wonderland!? Well head there on November 19^th, 2016 between 3:00pm and 9:00pm (the grand opening evening of Dutch Winter Wonderland) with a new, unwrapped toy. Children under the age of 12 will receive one complimentary admission in exchange for each donation to the Toys for Tots Foundation toy drive.

Fill Your Belly

As frequent visitors to our local amusement park – which has the same number of rides packed in to half the acreage – it was absolutely delightful to spend a day at Dutch Wonderland. Not only were there tons of rides and games, special treats like Dole Whip Junction and Funnel cake, a few Dutch education stations (my kids were really into these), shows, and characters – there were also lots of fun “stick your face in the picture” thingies which we all love.

So at 38 I can say my dream came true. I finally got to enter those big castle gates, walk over the drawbridge – naturally surrounded by a moat – and see the amazing place that is Dutch Wonderland. We had such a great time. The park wasn’t big enough to be stressful, but was big enough to fill our day and leave us wanting to return. There were plenty of places to eat, rest, play, and enjoy. Dutch Wonderland’s location offered many fun resorts and restaurants within a ten minute drive and there was more to do in the area than we had days to be there. Just a fantastic weekend all around.

Go. Enjoy.

Think of me when you’re eating that Dole Whip!

Don’t forget to check out all the family friendly vacation spots we’ve researched!

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Penguins in New York City! Mr.Popper’s Penuins at The Victory Theater

Penguins in New York City!

Tonight I was lucky enough to see Mr. Popper’s Penguins at The New Victory Theater. It was fantastic! Or should I say fin-tactic!?

flap-tactic?

flip-tastic?

Ok, I’ll stop.

We Found Penguins In New York City!

I’ve seen a lot of kids shows and I usually play along and like them for my kids but this was different. It was legit adorable and funny.

We didn’t know the story beforehand so we didn’t know what to expect. Not only were the four actors who played multiple characters (including ten penguins) great but they carried the story though flawlessly (and with delightful British accents).

The Mint Chip Mama - Mr. Popper's Penguins — Photo Credit: Helen Murray

Our favorite scene was when Mrs. Popper relented to becoming a penguin foster mom and sang a list of rules to her new Captain Cook. Why was it our favorite? Because my daughter turned to me afterwards and told me I had the same list of rules for her! Ha!

Special things kept us engaged like “snow” falling and the hilarious penguin “puppeteers”. Plus as a huge fan of British comedies, I loved the circular rotation of “new” characters coming out with different accent.

But the best was at the end when the entire audience was invited to stand up and join in the “show” and waddle like a penguin (I’m a sucker for audience participation!).

The New Victory Theater Is Great For Kids

The show was wonderful but the whole experience at The New Victory Theater was great. Including that they handed out booster seats as we walked in (perfect for me – a serial booster forgetter). But even better – they had a whole “come early & stay late” room downstairs dedicated to crafts and activities for ticket holders – free of charge – before and after the show. Plus the usher was totally into it and got my daughter into it too!

If you’re looking for a family friendly show – please check out Mr. Popper’s Penguins. While the age listed says 4-7 I think a younger kid would love it (I’m bummed I didn’t bring my 3 year old son too) and an older kid would appreciate it. My six and a half year old daughter LOVED it. She said a few times on the way home she thought she’d like it but she loved it!

The Mint Chip Mama - New Victory Theater

Mr. Popper’s Penguins has a run time of 55 minutes and is playing at The New Victory Theater through October 30, 2016. Tickets start at $25. There is an autism friendly show October 29th. For more information on how to see Penguins in New York City or to order tickets check out their website.

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GB Pockit Stroller – The Smallest Stroller in the World!

#gbpockit

Are you sitting down? I’m about to introduce you to the world’s smallest stroller. According to me? Nope – according to the Guinness Book of World Records!

Believe me now?

Get ready – I’m about to solve all your strollin’ problems.

Thank you For The Intro New York Baby Show!

I came across the gb Pockit stroller at this year’s New York Baby Show. It literally stopped me in my tracks. The gb Pockit is not only tiny it’s so small it folds up to fit in a bag, backpack, on the floor under your car seat, even – wait for it – in your infant car seat stroller base! Yes, that’s right people; I just said THIS stroller fits in the base of another stroller.

Digest that for a moment.

Yes. It goes there.

Got a baby and a two year old runner?

Because I do!

Do you venture out on the weekends never knowing if it’s worth bringing a stroller?

Because I do!

Do you use a carrier but then suffer from carrier remorse because you should have brought a stroller?

Because I do!

Do you hate leaving your stroller at a museum or zoo’s compulsory “leave your stroller here” zone?

Because I do!

The answer is the gb Pockit.

This Stroller Is So Small!

This amazing small stroller arrived in an equally small box. Inside the small box I found an even smaller stroller. Like Russian dolls it got better and better. I opened it up and Bam! A full size stroller!

Now you’re probably wondering if it feels like pushing one of those $10 cheap-o strollers in the “this is the least annoying and smallest stroller I can find” category, but no – quite the opposite! It feels like a good, sturdy, strong, smooth stroller. Actually – it feels even better than my current stroller.

Then the real test came – our first road trip as a family of five. I packed the usual – half of my snack cabinet, something in case it is cold, hot, warm, dry, wet, sunny, rainy, plus the quick 300 other things I needed.

For three kids.

You’re laughing… you get it… (even if your husband doesn’t).

In went the car seat stroller base and without even a blink – in went my brand new gb Pockit. My friend was over, we were both dumbfounded. Yes we were that excited about this stroller.

My Kids Love It!

You may have noticed sometimes a child resists going in their stroller? Have you noticed this? It’s usually accompanied by a very calm, quiet declaration refusing to go in it. Usually followed by you taking three deep breathes like the experts tell you to do (wink) – relenting, and letting them walk – while you trail pushing an empty stroller and muttering “well at least it can hold my stuff”.

But not with this stroller.

Bam!

Throw it in your bag, carry it on your back, heck – throw it in a locker! It is that convenient. Let the little monster – er – delight – walk.

Oh, monster, you’re suddenly tired and need a nap? I didn’t see that coming.

Bam!

gb Pockit to the rescue – out of my bag, on to the floor. It even has an adjustable rectangular sunshade.

Do you have older kids? Are you traveling and debating a double stroller vs. two umbrella strollers in case your older one needs a rest?

Bam!

It Fits UNDER Your Other Stroller! I Mean…

The gb Pockit fits under your other stroller! I know. It’s amazing. Speaking of travel – the gb Pockit fits under an airline seat. There’s even room for eight thousand snack bags and the “good” cup you better not leave on the plane.

The ultra compact gb Pockit is not just a pretty face, it also has a height-adjustable 5-point harness, removable and washable seat fabric, a storage basket that holds up to 11 lbs, locking swivel front wheels, a one-touch rear brake, fits children from six months to 55 pounds, and self-stands when folded. It weighs 9.5 pounds and has the folded dimensions of 12” long x 7” wide x 14” high.

This Stroller Changed My Life!

I’m so happy I learned about this stroller. As my family (and car) gets bigger, my trunk space seems to get smaller and filled with more ready-for-Armageddon stuff (see above).

The gb Pockit solves the problem I’m sure you – like me – have of never wanting to be without an umbrella stroller yet not wanting to give up that precious trunk real estate. Just know that the gb Pockit takes up less space than the perpetual bag of stuff you’re trying to return (I know, I have one too).

If you are in the market for a new stroller or are at a stroller crossroads, you have to check out the gb Pockit. It will fit (pun intended) perfectly into your life.

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2017 New York Baby Show Find: Prince Lionheart

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Pello

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Rumina

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Safe Traffic

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Oribel

2017 New York Baby Show Find: UpSpring

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Tray Haven

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Sassy Locks

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Luv Bug

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Keekaroo

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Chatbooks

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Bamboobies

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Mabel’s Labels

2017 New York Baby Show Find: Sage Spoonfuls

2017 New York Baby Show Find: FridaBaby

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Tomy’s Lawn and Garden Set

Let’s Take It Outside To Try

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Trains Make Kids Happy!

Tons Of Fun Activities After The Train Ride

Thomas The Tank Engine Visits This Historic PA Railroad!

Events Galore At This Historic PA Railroad

If Your Kid Is A History Buff

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We Are Excited To Return To A Family Favorite!

Floors and Floors of Crayola Fun!

Melt And Mold

Drip Art

Activity Studio

Doodle In The Dark

Art Alive

Molding Madness

Be A Star

Wrap It Up!

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Some Things Never Change

Camelback Resort’s Kids Ski Lessons

Not Everyone Loves To Ski

Aquatopia

Camelback Lodge

A few tips from The Mint Chip Mama for your fire and ice vacation!

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Turkey HIll Is A Great Family Destination!

Fun For Kids of All Ages

Turkey Hill Taste Lab

Turkey Hill Loves The Environment

Seasonal Events

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Long Island Television Studios!

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