What's Happening at The Franklin Institute

My family and I are so lucky to live in an area so rich in history, culture and things to do. Philadelphia is not only the City of Brotherly Love, but it is the birthplace of America.  In such an amazing city, it is not surprising to find amazing opportunities to both entertain and educate yourself and your family. One of our favorite places to do that is The Franklin Institute.

The Franklin Institute was founded in honor of America’s first scientist, Benjamin Franklin, and is one of the oldest and premier centers of science education and development in the country.  In The Country. The Institute is dedicated to public education and creating a passion for science by offering new and exciting access to science and technology in ways that would most likely dazzle and delight its namesake.

There's A Lot to Love at Hanna Andersson

I am so fortunate to live in an area where excellent shopping is readily available. I can remember going to Paris, and seeing stores that I have right here, only about 20 minutes away. I am always surprised when there's a store that isn't here in the Philadelphia area. One such store, until now, was Hanna Andersson.

When I was pregnant for the first time, I recall my mom having a Hanna Andersson catalog that I fell in love with. The clothes just screamed "KID" to me. They looked soft and comfortable and came in all these great colors. Well this week,  I was invited to attend a Private Pre-Opening Event (FYI - I received a gift card towards my purchase, however all opinions are my very own) at the Hanna Andersson opening at King of Prussia Mall. Guess what? I was right. There is just something magical about their clothes . . .

Hanna Andersson kid clothes are super-soft, comfy,and durable. The store was bright and filled with colorful kids' clothing in a variety of styles. Hanna Andersson also secures some of the top licensing agreements so that they can create the world's softest pajamas with your favorite Star Wars, Disney and Peanuts images on them.

Something I didn't know, was that Hanna Andersson makes a line of items for your home, as well as a line of women's clothing (including some super-soft pajamas).  They had selections from both in their King of Prussia store, and they were just as great as the kids' clothes. I even had the chance to speak with the CFO, Russel Bowers. He was a charming gentleman, who took time out of his busy night to share the Hanna story with me and my friend Sherry, as well as some highlights from the store and the business. We also met and chatted with President and CEO, Adam Stone.

Did you know that Hanna Andersson also has an unconditional guarantee? If you are unhappy with an item for any reason, simply bring or send it back, and they will refund the purchase price or replace the item. How awesome is that? 

Grand Opening Weekend at King of Prussia is happening right now! Shop this weekend and enjoy Buy One Get One offers on all their pajamas (including licensed ones) and 30% off everything else in the store!

Are you a Happy Hanna fan?

catch you soon -

Take a Walk - 5 Great Walking Trails In and Around Philadelphia

Taking a walk is a great way to get in those 10,000 steps a day. Going on a walk as a couple or with your family, can also be a great way to spend time together. There is something calming and centering about immersing yourself in nature for a while. Right now, the trees are still pretty and there's still plenty of wildlife to be seen. So grab your water bottles and put on some sturdy shoes, and get out there!

What to do in Philadelphia? Check out Art Splash at The Philadelphia Museum of Art

Love art? Want to get your kids involved this summer? Then you might want to give the Art Splash family program going on at The Philadelphia Museum of Art a try. Recently, I was an invited guest of the Museum, to preview this event as part of the media.

The Art Splash Public Programs began on June 28th and run through September 2.  The focal point for all the activities is the beautiful Ruth and Raymond G. Perelman Building light-filled atrium.  The program will feature a different theme each week. There are also two more Pay What You Wish family festivals coming up: Neighborhood Night Out with Artist Candy Coated on Wednesday, July 17th and a picture-book party on Sunday, August 4th.

Besides the Family Program and Festivals, Art Splash presents five enchanting exhibitions of illustration, fashion, photography and design. Each exhibit was created specifically with families in mind. During my visit, I got to explore the All Dressed Up: Fashions for Children and Their Families and the CandyCoated Wonderland exhibits.  I was also privy to a special sneak-peek at the Design for Modern Child exhibit.

Each of the exhibits was enchanting and so much fun to look at. What I found most interesting was that each exhibit had a "hands-on" aspect, so that children has something to touch and do. There was also plenty of child-friendly labeling in the exhibits.

Know Before You Go

• A full schedule of daily family-friendly programs is available on the Museum's website.
• Admission to Art Splash and all programming is free for children under 12, $10 for adults.
• While there are things for small children to do, there are plenty of look-only displays as well.
• Parking at the Art Museum can get pricey, $12 for the first 4 hours for non-members.
• There is a cafe, but also spaces and the nearby azalea garden for an outdoor picnic.

Art Splash is presented by the PNC Arts Alive program. You can follow the museum on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for news and updates all summer long!

catch you soon -

Disclosure - I was an invited guest of the museum. I did not receive any compensation for this post or for my time and as always all opinions are my very own.

Where to Go in NJ: Adventure Aquarium in Camden

As you may know, we made a Plan for Summer Fun this year. One of the things the kids put on our list of "want to dos" before school was even out for the summer, was to visit Adventure Aquarium in Camden, NJ.

Luckily, we were invited guests of the Aquarium on our very first week of summer vacation!

It's been a while since we were at the Aquarium, and I was happy to see many new things and exhibits. There is always a new exhibit, and during this visit, we got to check out the fascinating Mighty Mike exhibit! 

Five Tips for Family Travel Packing

This was a sponsored Media Trip. We love to travel as a family, whether it's a big family vacation to Disney or a day trip into Philadelphia, or anything in between. The kids love to explore new things and are pretty good travelers. But packing. . . does just thinking about it stress you out? Let me help you with some of my favorite tips and tricks for Family Travel Packing.

This weekend we are taking a family trip to Lancaster (follow us on twitter with #VisitLancaster). Typically this is a day trip for us and doesn't require packing, but last fall we visited overnight and the kids had a blast, so when we were invited to do it again, we jumped at the chance!

Wordless Wednesday - Out on a Limb at Morris Arboretum

catch you soon -

sweetgreen and Honest Tea - A Pairing Made in Ardmore

I firmly believe that the secret to Starbuck's  success is that have sold us on an "experience".  By buying their coffee and hanging out in their shop, you are hip.  Admit it, you'd rather be seen holding one of those pretty red cups than the street vendor greek cups - right?

There is nothing wrong with selling an experience. . .especially when there is quality product behind it.

 Such is the case with a new little place I was introduced to last week, called sweetgreen.  They got their start in the DC area, but recently opened two locations here in PA - one in University City and one in Ardmore.  I was invited to the Ardmore location for a tasting of sweetgreen foods and Honest Tea beverages last week.  I had seen the sweetgreen location at Suburban Square, but I am a creature of habit and continued to eat at Corner Bakery, without paying the new place much attention.

That has all changed.

Besides the fact that the store itself is green and clean and welcoming, the menu is filled with potential and just amazingly great fresh food.  Not only that, sweetgreen sources local and organic ingredients from farmers they know.  Yes - farmers.  It's like a fast-food farm-to-table.

They also have a conscience, and strive to leave a gentle footprint to protect our planet.

During the tasting, we had the opportunity to try out four salads, paired with four Honest Teas.  On the side there was delicious Kale Chips (with a spicy kick) and fresh bread.

Our four pairings included:

• the Earth Bowl served with Lemon Tea, 
• the Kale Caesar served with Green Tea, 
• the District Cobb served with Just Black Tea 
• the Misoba salad paired with Green Dragon Tea.

We were also treated to a sample of their Butternut Squash soup, and it was delicious.  The other bloggers and I had a hard time deciding which was our favorite salad.  I enjoyed all the Teas, as well - even the Green Tea, and I am not a fan of Green Tea.

sweetgreen also hosts a music festival (the sweetlife festival) and supports educational initiatives in the Washington DC area.

So if you find yourself in Suburban Square or on the Penn Campus, I highly recommend you give sweetgreen a try.  And if you become a regular, you have to get one of their reusable salad blaster bowls.

catch you soon -

note - I was invited to attend the pairing and tastings, and received a gift bag.  I was not compensated for this post, and as always, all opinions are my very own.

A Longwood Christmas - What to Know for your Holiday Visiting

The season is just getting started, and there is still plenty of time to get  your merriment on.  One spectacular way to get in the holiday spirit, is to visit Longwood Gardens

I was invited to Longwood Gardens last week as part of their Star Blogger Program, to view some of their half a million twinkling lights.  That's right - HALF a MILLION.

This year's theme is stars, and they are everywhere in all forms.  Staff and volunteers handcrafted 1,600 star-shaped ornaments out of wood, paper, glass, metal and natural materials.  The entrance to the East Conservatory is filled with 200 hanging stars.

The Conservatory itself houses more than 10,000 holiday plants on display.  Inside, you will also find the Stargazers Study, which is decked out with antique telescopes, star adornments and decorated trees.

My favorite display had to be this lavish table, beautifully set-up for 48 people.  A carpet of green grass runs under a 64 foot long table.  A moss table-runner, silver, china and vases of Begonia 'Barkos,' white Phalaenopsis orchids, dried roses, ferns and silver willow Salix branches fill the table.  In all, 256 live plants adorn this table.

I also enjoyed the Estate Fruit House that holds 13 holiday trees decorated with ornaments designed and hand-crafted by local students.

While I was there, I gathered up some great tips for YOU to use when you plan your visit this Holiday Season.

• Members get to visit for free, so if you are local, consider adding a membership to your holiday wish list! (individual memberships are only $65)
• Non-members are required to purchase timed-tickets, and these DO sell-out - so plan accordingly.
• The displays are both inside and outside - so be sure to dress appropriately.
• Peak times and days are BUSY. . .try planning an 8pm or later visit!  Or better yet, visit on a non-peak day (weekday).
• Be sure to check out their website, www.longwoodgardens.org for details and to order tickets.

A Longwood Christmas dates back to December 23, 1921.  The founder, Pierre S. du Pont and his wife, initiated a festive tradition of holiday sharing by hosting parties from 1921 to 1942 for the families of Longwood employees.  Longwood Gardens opened its Christmas celebration to the public for the first time, in 1957. 

This was my first visit, but I can promise you it will not be my last. There is still so much I want to see! Cheers!

catch you soon -
note - as part of the blogger program, I attended a press event and was provided a one year membership to the gardens.  I did not receive any compensation for this post, and as always, all gushing and opinions are my very own.

Getting in the Holiday Spirit | A Family Trip to Sesame Place

Last weekend, Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA opened up for their Holiday Festivities.  "A Very Furry Christmas" is a one-of-a-kind family-friendly celebration with everyone's favorite Sesame Street characters.  The park is transformed into a winter wonderland filled with trees, lights, shows, music, treats, rides and even Santa Clause.

 This was our first experience, and I have to say that both the boys loved it.  Even Ryan had a great time taking his little brother on the rides.

There's an amazing maze of nets and tunnels that kids (and adults) can climb over.  My boys liked running through the maze, and knocking into the hanging bags.

We were treated to a meet and greet with some of the characters, but they are also stationed around the park and available for photos.

 I could not pass up the opportunity to hang out with Oscar.

And speaking of photos, the park has plenty of festive vignettes set up to take a family picture or capture a great moment of your happy kids.

A Very Furry Christmas is open on select dates beginning Saturday, November 17. The park will be open daily from December 26th through December 31st.  For a complete operating schedule, visit www.sesameplace.com

It was a great day, and we were there from nearly opening, until just shy of closing. . .and the kids could have definitely rode the Vapor Trail one more time. . .

catch you soon -

note - we were provided entrance as part of their Media Day event.  I was not compensated for this post, and as always, all opinions are my very own.  

Looking for a great place to eat in NJ? Try Dodge's Market in Elmer.

In New Jersey, there is a 1 square mile sized town called Elmer. It sits in the southeastern corner of Salem County and boasts a population of 1,351.  Elmer was incorporated in 1893, and their website has some great historical facts and pictures.

But what I want to share with you today is a current jewel sitting in Elmer, NJ.  The New Dodge's Market.

When the boys go camping, I spend the time hanging out with my mom.  We go shopping, look through magazines, watch TV, drink wine and go out to eat. (that's how I camp)  Well she wanted to take me to her new find, Dodge's.  "It's not fancy" she told me, "but the food is really great."

When we pulled into the parking lot, it was love at first sight for me.  Dodge's is an adorable victorian general-store type place that oozes charm.

You can eat inside or outside on the deck.  We chose an inside table near the window.  The service was so friendly and wonderful.  More like going to a friend's house that a restaurant.  The inside tables give a great view of the Deli Counter (they have a famous cheddar. . .), floral offerings and dessert case (homemade and SINFUL!)

My mom was right, it's not fancy.  It's rustic and old-fashioned.  It's not "kitschy" but rather it's the real deal.

The uber sweet server brought over menus and got us some fresh-brewed iced tea.  They have Sweet Tea and un-sweetened tea as well, lemonade, soda and more.

The menu is an ecclectic mix of homemade soups, sandwiches and salads.  Some nights are "theme nights", we happened to be there on Burger Night.  That meant in addition to the regular menu, they had a selection of gourmet burgers to choose from.  

It seems wrong to call the delicious creation of beef, bacon, caramelized onions and brie that came out a "burger".  It was cooked to perfection and absolutely the best burger I think I've ever eaten.  I loved that the pickles, lettuce and tomato were on the side, allowing you to add or not.

Oh and those onion rings and fries on the side? Sinfully delicious.

There was no room for dessert after that delicious meal, but my mom and I picked out a little something to bring home.  They have a wonderful assortment of full-sized cakes, doughnuts, pastries, cupcakes, cookies, and small desserts.

They serve breakfast 7 days a week, offer take-out and catering, baked breads, a coffee bar, full-service meat & deli counter, imported & home-made cheese, fresh-roasted nuts and MORE! They have a produce selection and fresh-cut flowers, arrangements and potted plants too.

So if you find yourself out in the farm lands of NJ, I highly recommend you stop by Dodge's for something delicious to eat. They have a great website and are on Facebook too.

If you go - be on the look out for my parents. . .I hear they're "regulars".

catch you soon -

note - I was not asked to do this review, nor did I receive anything in exchange for writing it.  I believe in sharing good things with my friends, and Dodge's is a VERY good thing.  All opinions are, as always my very own.

Monster Trucks. . .Not Just for Boys

On Saturday night, we had the opportunity to attend the Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam show at Lincoln Financial Field in Philly.  The boys went last year, but I had a prior commitment, so this was my first time since I was about 11.

Photo Credit - Sherry Aikens

It was bigger, louder, and more glamorous than I remember.  And what a transformation of Lincoln Financial Field!

Photo Credit - Sherry Aikens

 First the trucks qualify for racing position. . .

Then there are the races among the qualifiers.  And that's where people fell over. . .lost tires. . .and more.  Medusa, a pink truck driven by a woman lost her front axle and was unable to compete in the Free Style. 

Grave Digger The Legend got to compete against Grave Digger - a father and son competition.  Grave Digger has been competing for 30 years.

 In between, there were some Quad Races that pitted a team from Philly against a team from NY. . .that's apparently a rivalry no matter what sport it is.

Lastly, the real crowd pleaser, is the Free Style.  This is the opportunity for each truck to come out and the driver to "strut their stuff".

Some competitors caught on fire. . .

some wrecked their truck. . .

There's never a dull moment. . .the show is exciting and the drivers add their own flair to their interviews after their Free Style runs.

We all had a great time, and were exhausted by the time we got home well after midnight! A big thank you to Sherry from Super Exhausted and her family for coming along.

Photo Credit - Sherry Aikens and John Chybinski

catch you soon -

note - I received a 4-pack of tickets to giveaway and a 4-pack of tickets to review the event.  As always, all opinions are my very own.