One very cool part of my job is the variety of press invites we receive, and this past weekend I was so honored to get invited and bring my husband along to see a brand new and AMAZING show in NYC!
Ain’t Done Bad is a theatrical dance performance conceived, directed, AND choreographed by the phenomenal Jakob Karr, who also dances the lead roll. WHAT is that even called, a quadruple threat? This man is already a complete legend.
As if the phenomenal dancing and the stunning lighting weren't enough, it's entirely backed by heartfelt music from various albums by country star Orville Peck. One track, Legends Never Die (my favorite incredibly fun scene that had me wanting to jump up and start dancing myself) even features Shania Twain!
“AIN’T DONE BAD is my love letter to anyone who has ever struggled with their identity, and it is a thank you note to everyone who helped me find my voice” says Karr.
This is for anyone who:
I would like to note, however, that viewer discretion is advised due to strobe lighting and some highly suggestive dancing during the main character’s period of sexual awakening. Think *that scene* in Center Stage, with men, a bit less clothes, and a lot more gyrating. And it was amazing.
Starring
The show premiered in 2021, winning the “Best Show’ highest honor at the Orlando International Fringe Festival and is running through September 1 on The Irene Diamond Stage at Pershing Square Signature Center (480 W. 42nd Street in Midtown Manhattan). With only 294 seats, it’s a lovely and intimate theater. The show is 90 minutes long with 10 minute intermission. Access the Playbill here and... BUY TICKETS HERE!!
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Thinking about taking the whole fam on a trip south of the border? Awesome choice! Mexico’s got it all - stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and don’t even get me started on the food. (Mmm, tacos…) Let’s dive into planning your dream family getaway. When to Go The First thing we should talk about is timing. Mexico’s weather can be a bit tricky, depending on where you’re headed. Here’s a quick rundown:
Pro tip: If you can swing it, September and October are sweet spots for great weather and smaller crowds. Where to Stay Alright, now for the fun part - picking your home away from home! Mexico’s got options for every family and budget:
Here’s a handy table to help you decide:
What to Do
Now, let’s talk activities! Mexico’s packed with family-friendly fun:
Don’t forget to check out some tours to Mexico for hassle-free exploring! Packing Essentials Alright, it's time to stuff those suitcases! Here’s what you shouldn’t forget:
And maybe leave a little room for souvenirs, yeah? Safety First I know, I know - not the most exciting topic. But it’s important, especially when traveling with kiddos. Here are some quick tips:
Budget-Friendly Tips Vacations can get pricey, but there are ways to stretch your pesos:
Getting Around Exploring a new country with kids in tow can be… interesting. Here are your options:
Language Basics Knowing a few Spanish phrases can go a long way:
Your kids might even pick up some new words - how cool is that? Food Adventures Oh man, Mexican food. It’s way more than just tacos (though those are pretty amazing). Here are some family-friendly dishes to try:
Just a heads up - some dishes can be spicy, so ask before ordering for the kiddos. Embrace the Culture Last but not least, don’t forget to soak in the vibrant Mexican culture:
It’s these experiences that’ll stick with your family long after the vacation’s over. The Bottom Line And there you have it! Your guide to planning an unforgettable family trip to Mexico. Remember, the key is to relax and go with the flow. After all, it’s about making memories with your loved ones. So pack those bags, brush up on your Spanish, and get ready for an amazing adventure. ¡Buen viaje!
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Camping is certainly an incredible hobby for all ages. It gives you the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life whilst immersing yourself in the beauty of nature. However, while it has many great benefits, it also comes with certain risks. The wilderness is unpredictable, and you may run into several challenges during your adventure. In this article, we are going to discuss five crucial tips so that you can have an enjoyable and safe experience. Let's begin! Craft an emergency kit. The first thing you should do before going on a camping trip is craft an emergency kit. While you may have all of the standard equipment crossed off your list such as shelter and food, there are many other things you will require. For instance, a map, flashlight, extra batteries, first-aid kit, and water purification tablets are all essentials that you should keep on hand. It's always better to be overprepared than underprepared. Additionally, you may want to look further into hatchets for camping. This tool can be valuable in all types of emergency situations. Familiarize yourself with basic survival skills. Alongside having the necessary gear for your trip, you should also take the time to brush up on your survival skills. If you become lost or are injured, these abilities can mean the difference between life and death. A few skills that you should learn include:
There are a wide range of courses online to help you get started. Of course, you should also get some real-life experience before your adventure begins. Research your campsite in advance. Familiarizing yourself with your campsite can significantly enhance your safety. Before you set up your tent and equipment, do a quick survey of the area, or better yet – research before your departure. Check for hazards such as unstable trees, rocky terrain, and areas prone to flooding. It’s also wise to locate any emergency exits and nearby water sources. Know the weather forecast. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the wilderness. Always check the weather forecast before your camping trip so that you can plan accordingly when it comes to your clothing and required supplies. It’s also best to monitor for updates using a portable weather radio or smartphone app. Understanding patterns can prevent many emergencies before they happen. Share your itinerary. Even if you consider yourself a camping expert, always inform someone about your plans. Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member, and update them if anything changes. Be sure to include a lot of details, including location, duration of the trip, and names of everyone in your group. This way if an incident does occur, they will be able to locate you more easily. Final Words Camping is a wonderful way to enjoy the great outdoors, but you should always be prepared for emergencies. While the chances of anything going wrong are slim, mistakes and accidents can still happen. By following the advice above, you can ensure a safe and fun camping experience.
Looking to elevate your summer experience with a budget friendly backyard makeover? Or perhaps you do a lot of camping or RV travel and are looking for a great portable spa. Either way, I got you!!! I was sent this 4-6 person Relxtime inflatable hot tub to review and it is, in a word, AMAZING, I'll go on a limb and say the best 2024 inflatable hot tub! But you don't have to take my word for it - watch my detailed video below to see how easy it is to unbox, inflate, fill, heat up, and enjoy the BEST inflatable hot tub!! More details and links below about this portable jacuzzi and other ways to elevate your backyard this summer!
Why we're loving this inflatable hot tub from Relxtime:
OK, time to shop!!!
Disclaimer: as an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from purchases made with the following links): BUY THE HOT TUB HERE:
OTHER PRODUCTS YOU MAY NEED OR WANT:
Here are some other products we've elevated our backyard with (review videos below):
Summer camp prep can be overwhelming! Not only finding the right summer day camp (at the right price) and getting a spot before it fills up, but also what to buy buy and have on hand so you're ready for packing and sending your child off to camp every day!! Don't worry, I got you!!! See my list below for shopping links or watch the video at the bottom to see everything in action!
Disclaimer: this post was NOT sponsored but I did receive everything free to review (over the last year or two) and affiliate links are included below - as an Amazon and Mabel's Label's Affiliate, I receive commission from purchases made through the links below.
Day Camp Packing Check List for this Summer:
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If you’re looking for some great home projects that could save you money, look no further than ways to make your house safer. Unlike those intimidating home improvement jobs, these projects can (usually) be finished in an afternoon, meaning you can enjoy the benefits immediately. So it doesn’t matter if you have kids or pets or just want to make your home feel safer and more secure, here are some great projects to consider. Install Security Systems Many homeowners use security cameras to protect their property. If you haven’t done so yet, it could be time to install cameras and lights to ensure your home is safe. These accessories can provide a functional benefit and act as a general deterrent, which could protect your neighbors, too. It’s worth researching the best security light placement to ensure you cover all possible entrances, while your cameras should focus on the front and back of your home to capture any would-be burglars. Secure The Property You should also find ways to secure your property to make it more challenging for intruders to gain access. Much like security systems, this deters them from even trying to get into your home, so choosing robust tubular fencing to surround your property can make a huge difference without making it feel like you’re blocked in like you would paneled fences. These additions can make you feel safer and help you sleep better, especially if you use a heavy padlock on your driveway gate to make access even harder. Clear the Garden Your garden could contain plenty of hazards you’re not even aware of and since you want to use it as much as possible over the summer, it’s worth clearing it to make it safer and more enjoyable. Take some time to clear any garden debris and mow the lawn. You can also trim bushes and hedges. If you work in the garden regularly, have a place to store your tools when you’re finished rather than leaving them outside. Fix Rickety Furniture There is nothing better than sitting on the porch at sunset, but you don't want to sit on wobbly chairs that threaten to throw you off at any moment. The good news is that fixing these chairs and other furniture is easy as long as you have some glue and tools. Use the super glue to secure any loose fittings or tighten screws to prevent legs or chair backs from wobbling. This will give you more support and stability to enjoy your evenings without worrying about falling over. Lay Carpets If you’ve got pets, kids, or elderly relatives visiting over the summer, you can lay carpets around the house to make your sleek hardwood floors safer. Carpets provide better grip, meaning there’s less chance of slips or falls so everyone can walk through the house confidently. However, these don’t need to be permanent. Use carpet tape to secure them in place and remove them when you don’t need them anymore. Safe Home Everyone deserves to feel safe and risk-free in their house. These projects focus on potential hazards, including burglaries and slips, trips, or falls to make your home as secure as possible.
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Medical science only goes so far after having a baby. Of course, it is valuable. However, new mother holistic therapies can help you find baby bliss and manage with minimal stress. From body treatments to ways to focus your mind, here are some alternative suggestions. Embracing the Holistic Approach First, you need to understand that a holistic approach to managing life in general can have stunning positive results. Medical science and doctors are excellent at advising specific things. But they aren’t there when you feel anxiety, stress, and loneliness. Support is a powerful way to cope with massive life changes. There are many unplanned pregnancy help support groups online. Just talking with others and reciprocal care will help when medical science cannot. Treatments for the Body Now for the fun stuff. There are tons of holistic therapies that can help you feel much better about yourself, life in general, and your situation. Something as simple as a massage can be just what you need to recharge and feel vibrant. If you are feeling the aches and pains of childbirth, treatments like acupuncture are believed to refocus energies and relieve chronic pain. Homeopathic remedies are also used by many new mothers to treat symptoms like nausea. New Mother Holistic Therapies at Home Parenting when you have a new baby can be a challenge. While getting to milestones, there are home treatments you can do. Maybe you have anxiety after childbirth. You aren’t alone. A study in Australia found that 30% of new mothers experience this. So what can you do? Some of the easiest ways to relieve anxiety with holistic treatments are easy. These include aromatherapy and drinking herbal teas. Some also find anxiety relief by keeping a journal taking the baby out. Focusing the Mind There is a distinct link between healthy minds and healthy bodies. Fortunately, like the body, there are many holistic treatments you can try to focus the mind. Most of these are easy to do but require some time and dedication to get the most from them. One of the most useful is meditation. There are all types of meditation, such as guided meditation, which is the best for beginners. Apps such as Headspace offer various exercises to suit different lifestyles. Exercise and Physical Activities Pregnancy takes its toll on your body. Getting back into shape after a baby is not easy. However, with some self-care and dedication, you can achieve excellent results. Exercises such as yoga are practical for strengthening core muscles and will help get your stomach muscles back to normal. Other muscles, such as the pelvic muscles and the vagina, can also be damaged. Simple pelvic exercises alongside gentle jogging will relieve pain and gain strength. Summary Embracing holistic therapies such as support as a lifestyle choice helps make the fourth trimester easier. Home remedies such as aromatherapy are easy to do and cost little. Other beneficial at-home activities include yoga, meditation, and even drinking herbal teas.
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Do you want to stand out when it comes to fashion? Maybe you want to experiment but you just don’t know how to get started. Either way, if this sounds like you then there are a few things you can do to try and turn things around. Mix and Match Textures Mixing different textures is often the best way for you to make your outfit stand out. The main reason for this is that it helps to add both depth and contrast. If you mix a silky blouse with a nice velvet skirt then the two fabrics will work with each other to create something that truly catches the eye. It will also help to make your outfit much more unique and memorable. If you want to take things to the next level, another thing you can do is try and combine different textures in your own individual way. If you do this then you will soon find that you can express yourself and your personality. Invest in Accessories Unique accessories are one of the best ways for you to make your outfit look the part. You can make your outfit look striking by simply adding some unexpected elements. Choosing bold or even interesting statement pieces is often the best way for you to look the part. You can also draw attention to your ensemble and this will help you to make a solid statement. By doing this, you can push the boundaries with what you love about fashion and you can also make sure that you are always one step ahead of any trends. If you are lacking accessories right now then one thing you can do is invest in industrial piercing jewelry. When you do this, you will soon find that it becomes easier for you to get the result you want out of your fashion game. Layer Different Pieces Layering different pieces is one of the best ways for you to add visual interest to the outfits and dresses you have. You may also find that this technique is the best way for you to add patterns and colors for a more eclectic look. You will soon find that you can express your personal style with ease and this is great, to say the least. Layering your outfit also gives you the chance to mix unexpected hues together so you can get a unique edge that helps you stand apart from the crowd. Of course, if you want you can even mix things like navy and pink together which is the best way for you to surprise yourself. Play with Proportions By experimenting with different things, you will soon find that it is possible for you to create a bit more of a unique silhouette and this can work in your favor more than you realize. Of course, if you have an oversized sweater, it may be that you combine this with a pair of nice voluminous trousers, so you can make an unexpected look that really gives you a unique appearance overall.
Japan is a bucket list trip for many people, and many wonder whether or not it's worth taking the kids when they're young, waiting til they're older, or waiting til they're out of the next and just going with your partner! I'll say, any and ALL of these are excellent choices!! We're lucky in that my husband is from Japan so we get to go and have a place to stay basically whenever we want, but are limited in that the flights alone cost a good $7-10k for our family of 5... I lived there for 5 years pre-kids and we've been back with kids 3 times so far. This blog post will host videos from our latest trip, in the summer of 2024, featuring lots of Japanese cultural nuances and tidbits such as tours of a typical Japanese home, as well as touristy spots like Kyoto, Arashiyama, Arima Onsen, and Universal Studios Japan (hello NINTENDO WORLD!!!). If you have any questions or comments, throw them below!!!
PART 1:
Features: our flight to Japan on United), Obon Matsuri, Japanese house tour + Tatami Room explanation, Japanese katana + suriken, Japanese washlet (bidet toilet) demo, how they grow rice / rice field, garbage and recylcling in Japan, Japanese vending machines, Japanese cemetery / graveyard, Japanese conbini haul / convenient store tour, Japanese bath and shower explanation, Japanese genkan / entryway, Japanese tatami mats, shoji doors, home shrine, Japanese shrine, Kaiten Sushi / Revolving Sushi and ROBOT, Japanese McDonald's Menu, Karaoke in Japan (private karaoke party room), Japanese Temple, and jetlag in kids.
PART 2:
Featuring Japanese yen lesson, Yamaguchi-cho town hall children's center & shoe changing / bathroom slipper lesson, how to open Conbini Onigiri (rice ball packaging), Japanese shopping mall / Randoseru, Japanese food court / children's meals, squat toilet vs washlet in Japan, Rajio Taiso (morning TV exercise), me playing piano after 20 years!, Japanese babies and home BBQ, Japanese pinata "Suica Wari", Japanese bakery "Sanbonmatsu Pan", meeting 3 of our 4 Japanese nieces and nephews for the first time!, Buying & using train tickets / train to Kyoto.
PART 3: Kyoto + Arashiyama
Featuring: room tour of Kyoto Hotel Androoms, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Gion ward of Kyoto, Aloe Yogurt, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Arashiyama Monkey Park, Kiyomizu Dera Temple, How to take onsen / sento (public bath) in Japan, Higashi Hongashi Temple, Gatcha Gatcha Capsule Machines, Takoyaki, machinery for planting and harvesting rice, and local farmland, Mos Burger (japanese fast food hamburger), Okinomiyaki restaurant.
PART 4: Universal Studios Japan
Featuring our day at Universal Studios Japan, including Super Nintendo World (we even got to ride Mario Kart Koopa's Challenge), the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and much more!!
PART 5:
Featuring Danjiri Matsuri Festival Cart , Taiko Drum Demo, Japanese shoe and indoor slipper culture, Arima, 1 of Japan's Top 3 Onsen (Hot Spring) Towns, BBQ with Rio's friends from college, Japanese Fireworks (hanabi), Family & Cousins feat. Japanese B-Boy breakdancing, Nashi Somen (Noodle Slide / Flowing Bamboo Noodles), Japanese Middle School, Sushi & Robot, Playground, Yakiniku and trying beef tongue, Japanese Futon and Sleep Culture, Japanese public bathroom tour, Airport goodbye! Flying Osaka KIX - SFO San Francisco with United - Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz & San Francisco!
See our past Japan trips including:
See other helpful family travel tips, destination inspiration, and more here!!
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Your kids' eyes light up with excitement as they experience a vibrant new culture. You see their faces filled with wonder as they explore ancient ruins. These are the moments that make traveling with kids so worthwhile. Yes, there might be a few tantrums or lost socks along the way, but the memories you'll make together are worth their weight in gold.
This guide is your roadmap to incredible family travel. Learn how to plan stress-free adventures, embrace the surprises, and create unforgettable moments with your kids. Preserve Priceless Memories with Tech Technology offers incredible ways to preserve the moments that matter most. Here's how to make technology work for those unforgettable moments:
Chart Your Family Adventure Getting kids involved in the planning stages is a genius move! Let them help choose a place to stay or pick a few activities they're excited about. This builds anticipation and makes them feel like part of the adventure. Age matters! A toddler will love the thrills of a theme park, but teens might be more interested in exploring cool cities with a rich history. Tailor your destination to your kids' ages for maximum fun. Refrain from cramming your days with activities. Leave room for ice cream breaks, naps (for everyone!), and spontaneous discoveries. Those unplanned moments often become the most treasured memories. Roll With the Changes Sometimes, travel goes differently than you planned. Missed flights, sudden downpours, a grumpy kid at the museum – these things happen! The key is to roll with the punches. A flexible attitude lets you turn mishaps into hilarious stories. Don't be afraid to wander off the beaten path. Sometimes, the best family memories come from unexpected detours. Get a little lost in that charming town. Follow that trail to see where it leads. These unplanned moments might lead to your favorite discoveries. Flexibility is not just for the parents. Teach your kids that it's okay when things change. They'll learn to adapt and find joy in the unexpected, a valuable skill for both travel and life! Keeping Everyone Happy and Engaged
Disconnect to Truly Connect Traveling is the perfect time to ditch the screens and truly focus on each other. Put those phones away and soak up the laughter, the conversations, and the inside jokes only your family would get. Leave the social media updates for when you get home. Trying new things together builds an incredible bond. Whether it's a weird-looking fruit at the market or navigating a crowded subway, shared experiences bring you closer. The best souvenirs aren't bought in a shop. They're the memories you make – the time your kid finally conquered a waterslide or the silly song you all sang at the top of a mountain. These moments will stay with your family long after the tan lines fade. Conclusion Planning helps, but don't sweat the small stuff. Roll with the changes, laugh at the mishaps, and focus on those precious moments with your family. Go ahead, brave mama! Book the trip, pack the bags, and get ready for adventures. Those amazing memories are just waiting to be made! |
About ME:I'm a NYC metro area mom blogger living in NJ with my Japanese husband & our 3 kids (twins plus 1), focusing on fun and honest product and travel reviews, saving moms time finding the best for their families! Find what you need in the menu bar or search section above! Categories
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