Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a Disney event guests buy an extra ticket for. The experience takes place in Magic Kingdom after an early park closing. The event features trick-or-treating, unique character meet and greets, attractions with Halloween themed overlays, and three Halloween spectaculars. Since it is an expensive night, here are some tips to help you get the most value from your time at the party. You will find below Tips for Attending Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party!
Me as Snow White and my Daughter as Leia at the Mickey’s Not-so-Scary Halloween Party
Tips for Attending Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
1. Best dates to go
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party gets bigger and bigger every year. The party nights begin in late august and carry on through September and October. The earlier dates will be less crowded. The ticket prices for the evenings Disney expects lighter attendance are lower. So, by going in August or early September, you don’t only save money, you also potentially save time as well by avoiding long lines and heavy foot traffic. Strongly recommended!
Halloween Decorations at
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
2. How to get through security
Wear an appropriate costume to avoid excessive security measures. Preference lightweight and practical as you decide what to wear and remember it will be hot out. Avoid wearing too much, or too little. Skimpy is not family friendly and a costume that is too big may look like you are attempting to smuggle something.
Aside from your costume, bring as few bags as possible. Remember, glass is not allowed in the park. Don’t bring alcohol, or the usual security threats to the party. Complimentary trick or treat bags are provided upon entry, but you may choose to bring your own.
Mickey’s “Boo-To-You” Halloween Parade
3. Go early
It’s best to schedule the party for a non park day (a day you don’t have a regular park ticket for), this way you are not paying twice for the same day. You can sleep in or enjoy a leisurely morning, then go to the party early.
The party starts at 7:00 pm but you can arrive as early as 4:00 pm. Showing up early gives you a head start on things you’d like to do at Magic Kingdom before the party officially begins.
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party- Princess Leia
4. Plan your night
Know your characters and attractions
Whichever is your main goal for the night, have a game plan involving what order you want to meet characters, or ride rides in. Having a route worked out beforehand is one of the most effective ways to maximize your time and conserve energy while among the crowds.
Tips for Attending Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
5. No Fastpass+
This event does not offer Disney Fastpass on attractions, so be prepared to stand in line the old fashioned way. If you time rides during shows and parades, you can benefit from shorter lines or even walk on wait times.
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party- Snow White and Princess Leia
6. New experiences
Make time for made over attractions this year with special Halloween experiences in Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Mad Tea Party. Lighting effects will transform the Tea Party, while Space Mountain will get new music and effects. Pirates of the Caribbean will add interactive elements with new pirates involving guests in a search for “Gunpowder Pete.”
6. Meal tips
Eat beforehand so you don’t spend an excessive amount of time on dinner while at the party. Bring your sweet tooth.
The “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” show 2019 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park
7. Parades and Shows
There are three showings of Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular, two Boo to You parade times, and one Happy Hallowishes fireworks spectacular. Most people go to the first showings, so you can run around meeting characters, riding rides, and scoring candy while the first parade makes its way through Frontierland and down Main Street USA. You can wait to watch Hallowishes and stay for the third Hocus Pocus show, which is followed shortly thereafter by the second Boo to You. It’s energy efficient and leverages crowds to your benefit.
Tips for Attending Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
Have a magical Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party!
Bubbles. They are a favourite for kids of all ages to play with on hot summer days. Bubbles are fun to play with when they are big, bright and all different sizes. Funrise Toys knows all about providing fun to kids, and they are no stranger to magical world of bubbles. They have a ton of bubble fun toys with their series of toys from Gazillion Bubbles that bring the magic and whimsy of bubbles to playtime. They asked my family if we could try some of their products to see if we would float away to fun with them. We could not wait to get started!
These are the items we received from Gazillion Bubbles
2L Gazillion Bubbles Premium Bubble Solution
Two 2-Packs of Gazillion Bubbles Crazy Wands
One Gazillion Bubble Tornado
A Gazillion Bubble Monsoon set
One Gazillion Bubble Bubble Pong game
One wand. A gazillion bubbles
Want a fun day (or two) of bubble fun? A 2L bottle of Gazillion Bubbles Premium Bubble Solution can make any day a good one. This “super solution” has been created to help make big, bright bubbles. Each 2L bottle of bubble solution has a specially designed 7-in-1 bubble wand that can be used with any Gazillion Bubbles product. The best part of this solution is that it is eco-friendly, safe, non-toxic, and will not stain your clothes or material on furniture.
My son really enjoyed being able to have all of this bubble fun on his own. He liked trying to get different sizes of bubbles of the different sized holes. My little guy also liked how he could create a cluster of bubbles and then wave them around to see them float away. He could have fun doing this all day!
Wacky, crazy fun
Love having whimsy, spooky or silly fun? Gazillion Crazy Wands are a great toy to have on hand! All you have to do is to add solution to these playful wands to begin the zany bubble blowing fun. Each set comes with two mouth-shaped wands, a dipping tray, and an 8 oz bottle of Gazillion Bubbles solution.
My kids love these crazy wands! They really like the funny mouth-shaped wands they got to play with. It was so easy to just add the solution to the dipping tray to begin blowing streams of bubbles.
Any of these sets would be perfect to use at a party or a fun event.
Taking bubble fun to the next level
Do you really love bubbles? The Gazillion Bubbles Tornado can help make this happen. With the addition of bubble solution, this toy can create 4500 bubbles per minute. This machine comes with a 4 oz bottle of Gazillion Bubbles solution and an auto-feed valve cap. *Note – 4 AA batteries are needed to power this toy.
We put in our batteries, add our solution and push a button to get the bubbles flying.
My kids loved watching as the bubbles flew out of the machine.
There were times that the bubbles covered my kids in the cloud they formed. It took about eight minutes for the Tornado to subside. We were lucky to have the 2L of Gazillion solution to top up this machine. This kept the fun of the bubble storm going.
Get ready to be taken by storm
The Gazillion Bubbles Monsoon bought the bubble power to our backyard With more wands and solution at its disposal, the Gazillion Bubbles Monsoon can create a mass of bubbles for kids to revel in. An 8 oz bottle of Gazillion Bubbles solution is included with this set. * Note – 8 AA batteries are needed for this toy.
We were peppered with bubbles in seconds once we added the solution and turn this machine on. This was a delight for my kids and our neighbours who were also gifted with the bubbly fun floating there way.
The Gazillion Bubbles Monsoon machine rained down on us for about eight minutes of fun. This machine would come in handy for parties or fun events that need a bit of whimsy added to them in a flash.
Bubble games, anyone?
Would you like to add bubbles into a fun game kids could play all day long? Gazillion Bubbles wants to deliver this combination with their Bubble Pong set! Players bounce ping pong balls into their opponent’s side of the board to score a point. The first player to score three points wins, sending a shower of bubbles to the other player. There are three levels of difficulty, for players to enjoy!
This game was fast and furious to watch and play! My kids started tossing and throwing their ping pong balls into each other’s scoring areas. What I really liked was that the spray of bubbles from the machine is not intense. It was a light spray of bubbles that they wanted to see again and again.
Gazillion Bubbles: fun for everyone!
The toys we received from Funrise Toys helped our family to float away to fun. The Gazillion Bubbles 2L bottle of solution and the Gazillion Bubbles Crazy Wands sets made having fun easy. We had a party through the storms of bubbles the Gazillion Bubbles Tornado and Monsoon created in our backyard. Gazillion Bubbles Bubble Pong made for a fun afternoon of bubbles games. Each of these products were able to take us away from the heat of summer afternoons we spent outside and enjoy each other’s company more!
Are you wondering about other toys your kids can play with to float into fun with Gazillion Bubbles? You can visit Funrise Toys on their website, and connect with them on their Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube pages!
Disclaimer: My family received products from Funrise Toys to write a review. The views I shared are my own.
Peaches just scream summer. With a peak season between July and August, peaches are enjoyed for a couple months in a number of recipes. However, you can always enjoy peaches all year long. Whether you use peaches you froze or canned yourself or purchased them in the store, it’s a great way to enjoy that summer flavour all year long. Of course, if it happens to be peach season, reach for fresh from your local farmer’s market. You will find below 20 Easy Peach Recipes to make this summer!
You may think that peaches are wonderful in cobblers and ice cream, but there are so many other great ways to enjoy peaches. Whether you love bread, iced tea, jam, or even smoothies, peaches are an awesome ingredient to use. The flavour works so well in a number of dishes.
Peaches
Peaches can be used for more than desserts. Peaches add great flavour to grilled chicken, overnight oats, and pancakes. You won’t believe all the wonderful ways you can use peaches in your meals. If you happen to find a great deal on fresh peaches, but have to buy a lot, do it. You’ll be so happy to try all the different recipes below. And you can always freeze or can the extras for later. You’ll be so happy you did when you’re able to pull those peaches out and enjoy them in the dead of winter.
Again, if you can’t find fresh peaches – or it isn’t peach season in your area – frozen or canned can be just as good. Frozen is always best though because you can get frozen peaches that don’t have added sugar. Best of all, frozen peaches are frozen at the peak of freshness.
20 Easy Peach Recipes
If you love peaches, but want to expand the ways you cook and bake with them, try these easy peach recipes below. There are so many awesome ones to choose from. Whether you want breakfast, snacks, or even dinner recipes, you’ll find something to enjoy.
When it’s that time of year again for kids to go back to school, parents are usually busy shopping for school supplies. It seems like the supply is long and it can be a hassle trying to find everything on the list but it is necessary to help ensure students have everything they need to have a wonderful, successful year.
However, there are a few things that you may need to buy that are not on the supply list. These 5 Great Things Your Kids Need for Back to School will help motivate kids and get them excited about going back to school.
Pens with a planner
Here are five things you need for back to school to get the year started off on the right track:
1. Three or four new outfits and maybe a few new accessories. Kids love to show off their style and what better way to do it than with new clothing and accessories to match? They’ll be excited to show their old friends their new outfits. As a result, they will also be excited to go back to school.
2. A colourful but durable backpack. Every kid needs a new backpack regardless of what grade they’re in. It should be something fun that matches their personality and style. Having a great backpack makes going back to school a little more fun.
3. Equip older kids with the tools they need for success with a new PC or desktop computer. Middle and high school students often do a lot of research and write essays. Providing them with a new computer is a great way to ensure they have the tools needed to keep up in class.
4. A planner to help keep them organized. It can be difficult for kids of all ages to keep up with everything on their to-do-list. A planner will help keep them on track and ensure they make time to complete their homework in addition to all of their other before and after school activities.
5. A stylish but comfortable pair of shoes. It may seem like a simple thing but kids do a lot of walking. It can be very difficult to concentrate on learning when your feet hurt so a new pair of shoes can make a big difference for students.
5 Great Things You Need for Back to School
The more you get involved with your child’s education, the more motivated he or she will be to work hard to accomplish their goals. Providing a few extra things such as the ones above will help keep them motivated and interested in going back to school, which will also make your life a little easier and less stressful. If you can afford it, you can donate back to school supplies to local charities or your school.
The International Food and Wine Festival at Epcot is coming fast. This special Disney event lis one of the biggest festivals at Disney World. There will be tons of celebrity chefs and TV personalities involved and over 30 booths offering creative small dishes and inspired pairings all over the park.
There are so many levels to this International Food and Wine Festival, it is difficult to keep everything in mind when you are on a limited schedule. To help prepare you, here are some aspects of the festival that will most benefit you during your visit.
A man and girl attending the International Food and Wine Festival in Epcot ~ Photo credit: Disney
How You Can Make The Most Of the International Food and Wine Festival in Epcot
1. The Park
The first thing to remember is that there is a permanent park underneath all of the temporary decor. Make that the focus of your planning and allow the festival to be secondary. There is so much to do and see in this enormous, beautiful and diverse Disney park. Plus, there is plenty to eat and drink in each of the permanent pavilions around the World Showcase. In fact, the restaurant you have reservations for might just have a special menu just for the festival.
One of the marketplaces at the International Food and Wine Festival in Epcot
2. The Marketplaces
The kiosks or booths that pop up all over the park for the festival are referred to as marketplaces. Every year Disney adds more, and this year it will be more overwhelming than ever. Form a game plan before you go in by finding the locations you most want to visit on the map and marking them.
Wherever you have a higher concentration of marketplaces you want to try, plan a break and split your party so you can cut down on wait times. Also bring a tray to help carry several plates.
How You Can Make The Most Of the International Food and Wine Festival in Epcot ~ Photo credit: Disney
3. The Festival Welcome Center
Despite the name, most guests are probably unaware that this place exists. This is where seminars, demonstrations, and other presentations take place. Many are free, or low cost, and you usually get to eat when you pay. It’s well worth it to try at least one seminar while you attend the festival. The building is also air conditioned and there is festival merchandise. Plus, Ghirardelli is there with sipping chocolate and free samples.
International Food and Wine Festival in Epcot ~ Party for the Senses ~ Photo credit: Disney
4. The Premium Events
At least look into the premium events. Lots of guests will have a dinner, or something special that they splurge on once during their trip. One of these separate ticket events could be your thing. You could partake in an interactive culinary adventure at one of the resorts, attend a celebrity demonstration with a Q&A session after. If you are looking for a party you can indulge at the Party for the Senses or eat your weight in burgers at the Rockin’ Burger Block Party.
International Food and Wine Festival in Epcot ~ Photo credit: Disney
Have a magical International Food and Wine Festival at Epcot!
See how my son, an avid biker, enjoyed his summer Pedalheads bike camp in Ottawa!
My son just love his bike. Well, anything with wheels is his jam, really, and anything to do with sports. He is, what I call, a cautious risk-taker, calculating and analyzing the risk before taking it. I made a point of teaching him one thing that he could carry through his life in more areas than when: When you fall, get back up and try again immediately – before fear sets in. He’s also been gifted with a sense of coordination I have never before seen in a child.
Dirt Biking at 6 1/2
At 10 1/2 months, he was walking, at 11 months, he was running. At 12 months, he was gliding through the house on his Lightening McQueen car using both feet to push and glide. At 15 months, he was pushing himself around on a tricycle. At 18 months, he was using the pedals on the bike. At 2 and a bit (following a winter break), he was on a 17 in bike with training wheels. By 3, he was riding on one training wheel and when we took his training wheels off a few months after he turned three, I held on to his bike but couldn’t run fast enough to keep up. I let go and he zipped around the little island on our street, leaning into his corners like a pro. Between then and now, he’s gotten four new bikes, each of them slightly bigger and slighter faster, getting his first gear-bike last summer at 6 years old.
PEDALHEADS: Bike Camp REVIEW
So when I found about Pedalheads Bike Camp in Ottawa, I was a little skeptical about what it could offer him. I had heard amazing things about kids who were 5 or 6 and still on training wheels due to fear and then going to Pedalheads and getting their wheels off in only 2 days, I heard about the confidence younger kids gained from the instructors, but I really wasn’t sure what my son would gain from it – I just knew he needed to do something or we would all go mad.
Pedalheads Bike Camp
For all of you who don’t know what Pedalheads is at all (I didn’t), it’s an instructional bike camp that focuses on teaching kids how to use and ride a bike, proper safety techniques, and gaining the confidence to ride without fear. Since 1995, this camp has been teaching kids how to go from “training wheels to trails.” They offer 8 levels taught in small groups with a mixture of instruction, practice, and play. They have over 75 locations in 4 different provinces in Canada and 4 US states. They have become the spearheads for instructional camps and have grown increasingly popular in recent years.
In addition to being concerned as to whether or not my son would gain anything from this camp, I was concerned about sending him to camp at all. You see, I’ve been at home for 6 years, we have never had the need to send him to camp throughout the summer holidays. He has attended camps, but they’ve been with people he already knew: he attended a jiu jitsu camp where my son practices and my husband teaches, so we already knew the majority of the kids there. He plays hockey, but it just so happened that two years in a row, his dad was head coach. He played soccer, but we were always there to watch. He played baseball but we were always there to watch. He did swimming lessons, but he had a friend in the class and we were always there to watch. The idea of dropping him off at a camp where he knew no one, where I knew no one and outside (in the open, wide world – not shut behind some locked doors) made me extremely nervous.
Luckily for me, my son is used to playing sports and not immediately knowing people, so he wasn’t as nervous as I was. As the week approached, he did get a little nervous and started saying he didn’t want to go, but just a few days before, we chanced upon a situation where he was surrounded by 4 brothers he didn’t know and by the time we left 2 hours later, he’d made a new best friend; so whenever he expressed his concern for not making friends at camp, we brought up that scenario. On the day of camp, he expressed that he was feeling a little bit sick, “But probably because I’m nervous,” but all the same, he took it in stride.
Bicycle Riding
At the end of the day, however, we had nothing to worry about. There were only 3 kids in his class and he liked his instructors so much he didn’t mind that he didn’t immediately have any friends. And he didn’t leave camp with life-long friendships, but he got along with them well enough that he didn’t have a problem with them. Plus, they were all so busy, they barely had time to speak to each other!
After the first day, I sat my son down, who is notorious for not relaying information well (when asked how his day at school went, “it was fine”), so I was surprised by how excited he was about the entire day. This is what he had to say:
“We learned stuff.”
I pressed him for more, and he continued, showing me specific motions, explaining the exact instructions he received, all with a huge smile on his face.
First day of camp!
“We learned signals. We have to put our arms out and look over our shoulders – but always look over your left shoulder, because the curb should always be on your right and the cars come left. And we went on ramps! And we got to ride on the roads!” I asked him about the ramps. “Robert held me the first time to make sure I was balanced. You have to make sure your pedals are equal and then you kind of go off the ramp which is about this high [10 inches], and I did it so good!”
He also informed me that although he was technically still in level 5, his instructors thought he was a little more advanced and could learn some of the things a level 6 would. I thought this was pretty unique because, have such a short period of time, I didn’t think the instructors would make such an effort to ensure he was learning at his level, rather than simply allowing him to go on with the potential of being bored
Pedalheads Bike Camp Days
One of the reasons my son loved the camp so much was because not only did he learn more about bike safety and about his own bike, he was given the opportunity to do things he normally wouldn’t have been able to do with two parents who don’t know all that much about biking. Here is a break down of the some if the things they did throughout their days:
SAFETY:
Crosswalks and intersectiond
Riding in bad weather (coincidentally, it was also the first time we received much rain this summer)
Parked card warning signs (indicators that a car might pull out)
Riding at night
Rules on a trail
9-1-1 – naming instances where it would be appropriate to call 9-1-1
BIKE HANDLING:
Changing gears on the road, uphill, and downhill
Handbreaking – and learning when and how hard to do it in order to ensure you stop when you need to. This was done with racing and a target – the kids had to start up quickly and then race towards the target drawn out in chalk and ensure they stop ON the target.
Shoulder check sandwich
Learning to maintain steady cadence
Front wheel lift
STREET RIDING:
Riding through intersections
Breaking on steep hills
Road ride using gears: This was tested by taking a 1-hour bike ride with his group using gears to maintain steady pace
Group downhill riding
TRAIL RIDING:
Ramps – Learning to use ramps which would help him if ever riding on a trail to avoid injury
Downhill breaking
Preparing bikes for trails
Trail challenge – using everything they have learned on the road and taking it to the trails!
BIKE MAINTENANCE:
Maintaining the chain
How gears work
Changing a flat tire
ABC check
And on their last day, they had challenge after challenge, which they called the Olympics. They had to use all the techniques they learned throughout the week and show their instructors how well they knew them. This was also the day where they went on their 1-hour trek around the neighbourhood.
My son and Pedalheads Instructor, Robert. My son LOVED him.
Pride in learning to ride a bike
The best, best part about all of this was how proud of himself that he was. He was proud that he was able to do so much on his bike, with people he didn’t know, but still trusted, and that at the end of the day, he had so much fun. He won a medal and an award on his last day, and he was even given a “Road Licence” which I thought was complete adorable. When all was said and done, I ask my son – who does not like to do anything where mom and dad aren’t there – if he would consider going back and he said, “OH YEAH!” And that made me happier than anything else. My son thrives on doing things he’s good at – and when he learned how to do those things even better, it makes him feel on top of the world and that makes me feel so thankful.
And, one of the best parts of this whole thing: when my son and I were driving on a one-way street the other day with no bike lane, there as a biker who signalled, and I cried, “I don’t know what that means!” And my sons said: “He’s turning left, mom,” like I was embarrassing.
Bike camps
All in all, I would definitely recommend Pedalheads Bike Camp to anyone who is looking for a fun, entertaining, learning environment. I definitely loved the learning factor of it – especially learning appropriate road safety – but what I loved most about it was that he loved it, and that’s a win for me!
PEDALHEADS: Bike Camp From Training Wheels to Trails
For more information on what and how they can offer your child, check out their website, or follow them on their Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages as well as their YouTube channel!
Disclaimer: My son received a half-day camp from Pedalheads in order to write this review. The views I shared are my own.
Buying a new RV is an exciting experience just like buying a new car. But one critical difference between buying an RV and buying a car is that the questions you need to be asking yourself before buying the family RV are completely different. Here are the five most important questions to ask yourself before buying a family RV.
Woman reading in a chair beside a RV
Questions To Ask Yourself Before Buying A Family RV
Question #1 – What Price Are You Willing To Pay?
As with buying a car, you do need to ask yourself what price you’re willing to pay for this RV. You can use online resources to help you find a reasonable price in your area. What’s important for now, however, is that you do actually set a firm budget. You also can’t go above this price just because you find an RV that’s fancy or attractive (at least not if you want to remain fiscally responsible).
Question #2 – What Age Range Do You Want?
So long as you’re going to be going used with your purchase, you need to ask yourself which age range of RV you’ll be willing to buy as well. Generally speaking, the more luxuries and amenities you want (refrigerator, microwave, oven, TV, etc.) then the newer your RV is going to need to be. If you’re fine without those features, and if you’re on a budget, then an older RV is going to be best.
Question #3 – What Floor Plan Do You Need?
Ask yourself this question with your family in mind. Sleeping arrangements will obviously be a big concern for you, but you also need to think about the layout of the RV itself. Think about what would work best for your family, and gain the perspective of your spouse or partner and kids to truly find the best fit.
Plates of food on a table in a RV
Question #4 – How Much Storage Space Do You Need?
This question is also important, because not all RVs are equal when it comes to storage space. The best way to figure out how much storage space you will need is to make a list of the items that you’ll be bringing with you on the next road trip.
Then you can begin to imagine where those items will go as you inspect the RV in person (and you should always inspect an RV in person before buying it).
Question #5 – What Amenities and Luxuries Do You Need?
Not which amenities and luxuries that you want, but which amenities and luxuries that you need? There’s a critical difference there.
For instance, a TV maybe nice to have in an RV, but is it truly necessary? On the other hand, an oven or a dishwasher may be too luxuries that you do indeed need to have.
5 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Buying A Family RV
Buying An RV For The Family
Each of these five questions we have covered are not questions that you would be wise to avoid asking yourself before you leave on your family trip.
Okay, let’s get real. S’mores is one of the best summer desserts ever. You will love these 15 s’mores recipe ideas that I have chosen for you!
Who doesn’t love the combination of toasted, gooey marshmallow with melted chocolate and crisp graham crackers. It’s pure heaven. The only problem is you usually feel like you need a bath afterward. With marshmallow on your chin and chocolate all over your face, it may make you steer away from this yummy treat, especially when you consider how messy the kids get. No worries. There are so many wonderful ways to enjoy s’mores recipes without all the mess. The best part is getting to combine the flavours of s’mores with some of your other favourite treats.
National S’Mores Day
Imagine cupcakes, dip, and even cheesecake with the flavours found in s’mores. Not enough for you? What about s’mores bars and parfaits? If you love the combination of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham crackers, you are going to love the desserts found in the list below. There’s something for everyone and every occasion. Don’t forget to celebrate National S’Mores Day on August 10th!
Some More S’Mores Recipes
S’mores recipes
If you’re hosting a barbecue this summer, make some of the s’mores cupcakes for the kids and a s’mores cheesecake for the adults. You might just want a little treat to have on hand, so why not make the parfaits and pop them in the fridge or make the s’mores bars for the kids to grab as a quick snack. If you want a quick snack for movie night, make the s’mores dip. There really are so many wonderful recipes to choose from. If your family loves s’mores, they are going to love having a different s’mores treat each week throughout the summer months.
S’Mores Recipes
If you’re tired of having to hose down the kids each time you serve them s’mores, consider one of these desserts. They’ll love the flavour combination and you’ll love the fact that cleanup doesn’t take forever.
This post is sponsored by Welch’s® Fruit Snacks. I am being compensated for this post. All comments and opinions are my own.
Back-to-School Trail Mix with packets of Welch’s Fruit ‘n Yogurt Snacks.
Crunch into Fun with this Back-to-School Trail Mix!
Back-to-School is looming ever closer. One of the most daunting tasks we face when preparing to get back into the hustle and bustle of a school day: snacks in our child’s lunches. Making sure kids are enjoying what they are eating is the goal we strive to achieve. After a lot of trial and error, I came up with this Back-to-School Trail Mix that is easy to make. It is a snack my kids enjoy when crunching into a snack at school!
Boxes, packets and a bowl of Welch’s Fruit ‘n Yogurt Snacks with the Back-to-Schoo Trail mix.
I HAD to add Welch’s Fruit ‘n Yogurt Snacks to this recipe because my kids are huge fans of these mini bits of delight. They are bright, colourful and are easy to eat on their own or as a fun addition to other snacks. I also love popping a pack into my bag. They are great to munch on while on-the-go!
Boxes, packets and a bowl of Welch’s Fruit ‘n Yogurt Snacks on a table.
There are a lot of fruit snacks that ignore fruit. At Welch’s, they have made a point to put fruit front and center. Did you know that their Fruit ‘n Yogurt Snacks are not only made with real fruit
This makes us smile every time we savour these delightful morsels.
What is fabulous about this Back-to-School Trail Mixare the ingredients. I love to customize it so our children do not get bored with the flavour.
Another great feature of this snack is how easy it is to put together. It only takes a few minutes to make.
For this trail mix recipe I threw together the following ingredients:
3/4 Cup Pretzels
1 Cup Hulled Pumpkin Seeds
2 Cups Popcorn
1 Cup Coconut Shavings
1 Cup Hulled Sunflower Seeds
6 Packs Welch’s Fruit ‘n Yogurt Snacks (3 Strawberry flavour and 3 Blueberry flavour)
Ingredients for Back-to-School Trail Mix on a table.
Once the ingredients are in a bowl, all you have to do is mix them together and put them into a container for your child’s lunch. You can keep the remainder in a jar to enjoy any time you want!
What I really love about this snack is the different textures I experience with every bite. My kids adore how they get a different flavour combination with every handful they take!
Are you excited to put together your own Back-to-School Trail Mix recipe using Welch’s Fruit ‘n Yogurt Snacks?
Crunch into Fun with this Back-to-School Trail Mix
I hope that this Back-to-School Trail Mix recipe has given you some great ideas to help your family pack some tasty snacks for your lunches.
Which ingredients would you love in a BTS trail mix?
Disney World is a magical place for everyone. This is especially true for toddlers. While it’s obvious they can’t ride every ride in the park, the suggestions on the following list are A-OK. Keep them in mind as you enter the gates. You will find below the Best Disney World Rides for Toddlers!
Photo credit: Disney ~ Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Best Disney World Rides for Toddlers
1.The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh takes your toddler on a trip through several scenes inspired by the beloved children’s book. All of your child’s favorite characters are featured, including Tigger, Piglet, Eeyore and Winnie the Pooh. Fans of the original films will appreciate much of the voice talent which reprises its role for this ride. This Disney World ride for toddlers also features scenes which are modeled after classic Winnie the Pooh stories, such as Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day.
Photo credit: Disney the Flying Elephant
2. Dumbo the Flying Elephant
Dumbo the Flying Elephant is a Disney classic carrousel style ride ideal for toddlers. It has been entertaining toddlers and families since the first ride opened in Disneyland, all those years ago. Each of the ride’s vehicles is crafted to resemble one of the characters in the Dumbo story book. The cars go around the ride at a constant speed and can be raised or lowered (using a lever) passengers operate right from their seats.
Photo Credit: Disney ~ Peter Pan’s Flight
3. Peter Pan’s Flight
Peter Pan’s Flight let’s kids see what it’s like to fly just like Peter Pan. It was among the opening lineup of rides at the original Disneyland location and remains one of the more popular rides to this day. Guests board vehicles shaped like flying ships and are taken from the Darling children’s nursery out into London’s night sky. They are then magically transported to Neverland, where they get to see familiar characters none other than Captain Hook and Peter Pan. A definite favourite Disney World ride for toddlers!
Photo Credit: Disney ~ Under the Sea- The Journey of the Little Mermaid
4. Under the Sea: The Journey of the Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure (known in Magic Kingdom as Under the Sea: The Journey of the Little Mermaid) is a Disney indoor ride fun for toddlers which features many scenes from the hit movie, The Little Mermaid. In addition to recreating these scenes, this ride features several of the actual songs included in the official soundtrack. Kids get to see characters such as Triton and Ursula come to life. They’re also able to follow Ariel on her adventures, as she tries to reclaim her voice.
Photo credit: Disney ~ Charming’s Regal Carrousel
5. Prince Charming’s Regal Carrousel
If you’re looking for a chance to unwind while your toddler has a quick bit of fun, head over to Prince Charming’s Regal Carrousel. The music features organ renditions of various famous Disney songs. The ride itself features 90 intricate horses, all painted white and set with gold and silver leaf, and it also features hand-painted scenes from the movie Cinderella.
Best Disney World Rides for Toddlers
If you’re traveling to Disney World with members of the toddler set, don’t end the day without allowing them to experience the fun and excitement of these Disney rides that are toddler approved. I can almost guarantee they’ll have a blast and want to ride them over and over again. Don’t forget to get your Disney FastPass and make up to 3 FastPass+ selections in advance either online or using the mobile app!
Many parents recommend taking the time for an afternoon nap, which would be most convenient by staying at a Disney Resort when visiting Mickey with little ones in tow. This really helps to ensure that the rest of the day goes smoothly for everyone and that nobody gets overly cranky from lack of sleep. Remember, it’s a great opportunity to get a little shut eye yourself!
Which Best Disney World Rides for Toddlers does your family like?
Whether you’re anew parent or you’ve done it all before, you will probably have been steered in the direction of the importance of self-care more than a few times. It’s easy to give the advice, but it’s usually much harder to put it into practice when your sole focus is the new member of the family in your life.
Self-care is really something that needs some addressing though because the reality is that you can incorporate it into your life and it does have the potential to help you live a better life as a parent. This has every chance of filtering down and benefitting your child too.
Self-Care Tips for Parents
With this in mind, here are five simple self-care tips for parents that you can look at introducing and see what the positive effects are for you.
1. Change your priorities
After we touched on the fact that you don’t make time for yourself, it’s probably dawned on you that this is the case and the list of things you have or want to do is a mile long! As parents, making time for things that are ‘just for you’ can be few and far between. That’s not to say they can’t still happen.
Reprioritize. What you need to remember is that self-care isn’t just there for you to take care of yourself in the little areas of the day that are left when everything else is done. You need to know that it’s something that needs to come at the top of the list, and by doing so, you’ll become adept at putting your best self forward during the rest of your day.
2. Make sure you sleep enough
Sleep; remember that thing? Being a parent means you’re often going to miss out on a fair bit of that, but it’s absolutely essential that you take positive measures to overcome this at every opportunity becauselosing sleep is bad for your health.
Setting a routine is very important. This starts with you, so you have to put a routine in place for yourself and then do the same for your little one too. You’ll all benefit from this becausehumans are all designed to crave routine, whether you think you do or not.
The Sleep Advisor explains that if your baby gets into a regular daily and nightly routine then they will enjoy a higher-quality level of sleep more frequently, meaning that you can indulge in an increased chance of getting the essential rest you need as a result.
3. Eradicate decision fatigue from your life
Were you aware that,on average, everyone makes an astounding 35,000 decisions a day? The trick is to reduce these decisions down so that you can stay as full of energy as possible. You’ll also be able to think a little clearer if you’re stripping back the number of decisions you are required to make.
As we mentioned about humans craving routine, research has shown that we generally repeat around 40% of our behaviour on a daily basis. To put it in the most basic terms, fatigue sets in when you make too many decisions, so, you need to rid yourself of fatigue. You can achieve this bymaking good choices and following suit each day after.
4. Kill off the distractions
If you want to avoid distractions and concentrate on the important things, it’s best to give the smart devices a break. It’s always hard given that they are such a big part of our lives now, but once you start scrolling, it’s rather hard to stop unless you have some strong self-discipline.
Allow yourself some time to work through those important things first and foremost. Do this first thing in the morning and then they are cleared and out of the way for you to do other things throughout the day. It’s also good as you’ll feel freer in your mind too.
Self-Care Tips for Parents to Help Meet Your Parenting Goals
5. Strive for balance, not perfection
It’s wonderful that the options are on tap and the choice is vast when it comes to things to do as a family. Many of these activities are also there to help your child develop and educate you on how to be a better parent.
However, it’s easy to get tied up in trying to go to too many of these types of things in an effort to be the perfect parent. While you might have your best intentions in mind, if you try to over commit, the benefits can be lost.
Ideally, just take into consideration that if all the things you want to attend are great for you as your child, the old saying that less is more should be in your mind. It’s important to be discerning and choose which things are most important to you and your family and pursue those; there’s nothing at all wrong with being selective. Better strive for balance and not perfection!
If you’re someone who has to travel often or are probably heading out for a nice vacation, here’s something to help! Keep reading to discover how to cope with jet lag with these 5 simple tips that can help you tackle and avoid jet lag on your next trip abroad!
How to cope with jet lag?
What’s worse than a hangover? It definitely has to be jet lag. Difference is, you didn’t actually have fun getting it, and its effects last longer than a regular hangover- it can all really put a damper on your trip! Check out these tip on how to cope with jet lag.
1. Shift Your Schedule
A week before your travel date, adjust your bedtime and rising time to make your body accustomed to the change more easily. This simple clock shifting experiment works wonders, and can help you avoid and tackle jet lag more easily than you’d think.
2. Get Some Sunlight
The internal clock of the body controls a lot more than the sleep and wake cycle- everything from regulating the body’s hormones to the digestive system and its regularities. That’s exactly why controlling your light exposure strategically at least a few days before the travel date can help you adjust quickly, and avoid jet lag.
3. Invest in Self Care Before your Trip
Practise a little self-care before and after your travel date. That may be easier said than done, but try to stick to a regular exercise routine and a normal sleep schedule at least a week before the day of your travel. Remember that air travel is physically exhausting, no matter what age group or gender you belong to, so a little self-care can always be helpful.
4. How to prevent jet lag with melatonin
When it comes to resetting the body clock, melatonin supplements can be quite useful. A lot of people who travel often, or those who are hit harder by jet lag, often take them to help their body clock reset faster. This remedy for jet lag definitely works well!
5. Don’t Overexert Yourself
Once you reach your destination, be patient and give your body a little time to recover. Don’t waste your energy trying to fight it. Remember that some jet lag is totally normal, so just breathe, relax and give your body enough rest. Get back to your normal exercise routine, and that should help you get back on track!
I hope you enjoyed these tips on the prevention of jet lag and that they will come handy on your next long flight abroad.
The world came together a few weeks ago to watch their country compete to win in the biggest soccer tournament in Russia. It was great to watch each of the teams battle it out until one team was crowned champion. My family wished we could bring the fun of this tournament into our home. HEXBUG wants to make this wish a reality with their Robotic Soccer set! They asked my family if we would like to see if my family would have fun bringing technology and sport together with this set. We were curious to see how HEXBUG could pull this off!
Fun Toys with HEXBUG
HEXBUG Robotic Soccer set on a table.
Each HEXBUG Robotic Soccer set comes with the following pieces:
2 Robotic players with remote controls
3 Soccer balls
4 Hood covers
1 Soccer field
Decals to customize robotic players.
HEXBUG Robotic Soccer players with remotes at centre field on the field.
Some assembly required
The soccer field was easy to put together. It took a few minutes to put the boards and the goals up to get our wold tournament started.
Hands putting together HEXBUG Robotic Soccer field.
It was a great idea to be able to change the decal flags on the players. This way, users can choose to be different countries any time they wanted to play. I also loved that it took seconds to remove the decal and the covers to customize each player. My kids changed their players a lot, and they were happy to be able to have a lot of choices.
Hands placing decal flag on HEXBUG Robotic Soccer player.
Practice, practice, practice
One of the hardest parts about this set for my kids was learning how to use the remote controls for the players. There was a bit of a learning curve for them to learn how to manoeuvre these robots. There were times that the channels for each of the players became crossed. This caused for one remote to be in control of both players simultaneously. With a bit of practice, the players were zooming around the field, warmed up and ready to play a game.
Hands holding HEXBUG Robotic Soccer player remote control.
Game time!
Both of my kids are competitive, so each of them had their game faces on. The boards kept the ball on the pitch well, protecting it from soaring into our backyard.
Collage of photos of kids playing with HEXBUG Robotic Soccer set.
They enjoy stealing the ball from one another and scoring goals. One of their favourite moves is to “kick” the ball into the net. The motion is quick and fun to watch. Creating victory moves and spins gave each of the drive to want to play more.
HEXBUG Robotic Soccer player with a soccer ball at centre field.
GOAL!!!
My family really love how technology and sport came together with our HEXBUG Robotic Soccer set! Being able to customize your player with different countries makes each game a new one. Once the remote was figured out, playing a game was fun and competitive. Kicking the ball and speedy spins are some of our favourite moves to make and always make us giggle. This set is one my family will be enjoying anytime we want!
Technology Plus Sport Equals Fun with HEXBUG
Are you wondering what other fun HEXBUG has for kids to enjoy? We checked out their website, and we connected with the on their Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube channels!
Disclaimer: I received products from HEXBUG in order to write this review. The views I shared are my own.
Generations of children have enjoyed Winnie the Pooh. The iconic silly ol’ bear first captured readers’ hearts in 1926, and now, almost 92 years after the first book published, a brand new generation is sure to fall in love with Winnie the Pooh! Below you’ll find a number of 12 Crafts and Snacks Inspired by Winnie the Pooh!
On August 3, the feature-length film, “Christopher Robin“ is set to hit theatres. The story finds Christopher Robin all grown up and experiencing the stresses of adulthood, that is until he finds his friend Winnie the Pooh who shows him how to enjoy the small joys in life again.
Children and adults alike are sure to enjoy this film. Christopher Robin will remind adults of what it’s like to be a child again, and children will see that you can still have fun once you’re grown up. Of course, the real star of the show is sure to be Winnie the Pooh!
Crafts and Snacks Inspired by Winnie the Pooh
If your children already love Winnie the Pooh, there isn’t any doubt that these will be a hit! If your children don’t yet know about Winnie the Pooh, now is the perfect time to introduce them to this iconic character!
There are so many great activities and snacks to choose from. There’s something for everyone! Even if you have very young children, they can still enjoy these. They would also be excellent for a summer party. If you have a child with an August birthday, a Winnie the Pooh themed birthday is sure to be a big hit this year! Your child can even make several of one of these crafts to send home as party favours.
Summer will always be an important part of the Canadian calendar because it provides ample time to spend with your family. If you haven’t gone on a fun family outing or planned anything special for the season yet, you might as well plan exciting and fun summer time!
Prince Edward Island Beach
Indeed, nothing beats a long road trip or a fun time creating outdoor decor or visiting the beach. It’s good for the kids and it’s good for parents like you and I. You can never ask for more if you’re doing fun activities with the kids. One thing that gets in the way, though, is the fact that you need to find a worthwhile activity everyone in the family will enjoy.
4 Essential Ways to Spend Summer Time in Canada
It may seem easy to some, yet others seem to struggle trying to find the most engaging ideas for good summer fun. If you haven’t yet decided on the activities you’ll be doing before the summer ends, here are some activities to get you started.
1. Go on a picnic
The summer season is always a good time to hold a good old-fashioned picnic. Come to think of it, you can also have a picnic any other day during the summer — all it takes is a blanket, a basket filled with delicious goodies, and some fun games to bring along, like Twister. To make this activity extra special, have the kids prepare their own delicious concoctions which you and your partner will judge. The tastiest snack wins a prize!
Children having a picnic
2. Take a road trip
Whether you want to travel up north or visit historic places in the country, a long road trip along Canadian roads is always a fun activity that even the kids will enjoy. For one, it takes their minds off of video games and social networking, and lets them focus on the great outdoors.
Wherever you want to go for a road trip, it’s best that you do a lot preparations beforehand. First, you might want to rent out an RV that has all the amenities you need. If you’re on a budget, you can go online to compare Canadian RV rental companies and find the best deals. Once you have your vehicle ready, all you need to do is to make sure you and your kids have everything you need to make the journey extra exciting.
3. Give your house a fun makeover
If you’re thinking of refurbishing your home, you can spend the time over a summer weekend updating its appearance. For a start, give it a new paint job using a new colour palette. This will make your home look good as new. You can also replace broken windows and doors.
Have your kids join in by having them create beautiful DIY decor you can display outside. Wind chimes made of seashells and pencils are always a good choice. You can also decorate the house by sticking cutouts on your windows. Just make sure to guide the kids as they make their wonderful creations.
4 Essential Ways to Spend Summer Time in Canada
4. Go on a beach holiday
What’s summer without going to the beach? Despite where you live, Canada has lots of scenic beaches where you and your family can have a splendid time. After all, nothing makes you feel proud as a Canadian quite like exploring the country’s most scenic spots.
You don’t have to book a flight to the Bahamas for good summer fun — there’s Singing Sands Beach in Prince Edward Island. If you want to go somewhere that’s closer to your home, you can always hit the sands of Cobourg Beach, which is just an hour and a half away from Toronto.
Kroeger Inc. wants people to make summer fun with games they have in their roster. We were asked to try out three games to see if my loved ones could turn guessing into fun. We could not wait to get playing!
Summer brings about a lot of things with it. One of the things that is not guaranteed is the fun. That is something we have to add to have a good time at this time of the year. Games are an amazing way to entertain yourself and disconnect from devices. Having to guess what other players are doing or saying can turn a bland day into one filled with laughter. You can also check out these games we previously reviewed from Kroeger Inc.
I received these games from Kroeger Inc. to try and enjoy:
Mouth Guard Challenge
How to Rob a Bank
Who’s The Dude?
Mouth Guard Challenge Game By Kroeger Inc.
Trying to figure out what people are saying when they are mumbling. Imagine trying to decipher what they are saying with a mouth guard in their mouths!
Mouth Guard Challenge is a game that gets people to do just that. With 1100 different challenges to take on, players are competing to be the most understood in 45 seconds. Players are trying to pronounce words, phrases, and silly sayings while manoeuvering a mouth guard around your mouth.
I played this game with my eldest and we had an amazing time! Once the mouth guard was in, that is when the fun began! Trying to say the various words and phrases on each of the cards was the hardest part, but also the best! For us, Ps and Fs were the toughest to say and get across to each other. We can’t wait play this game in a bigger group this summer.
How to Rob a Bank Game By Kroeger Inc.
One player is the bank controlling the guards. Everyone else teams up as robbers to take what is in it when How to Rob a Bank is being played! Players take turns secretly mapping out what will happen during each round with their playing cards. When it is time to reveal your moves, players will be picking up money bags, triggering alarms, and trying to steal from or protect the bank. After three rounds, find out if the bank or the robbers are successful.
When I played How to Rob a Bank with my gal pal, we found it was a really tricky one to play and understand. There are so many different things you had to be aware of when planning out your moves. We found it confusing to play. There is an extensive game book that goes along with this game, and it took us longer to figure out what each move was than to play the game. We were not sure who won our game, either. For us, this game was not a fun one to play.
Who’s The Dude? Game By Kroeger Inc.
Verbal communication is an easy way to get your message across to people. Having this method taken away can make conveying your thoughts much more difficult. Who’s The Dude? is a game where gestures with your sidekick, The Dude. This dynamic duo have to silently act out different scenarios on playing cards to be guessed by the other players. The player that guesses the most points after four rounds of play is the winner!
My eldest and I had one of her friends over to have a fun Girls’ Day at my home to see how much fun we would have with our honourary girl, The Dude. Having The Dude to help act out the suggestions on the playing cards was so much fun! We put our “friend” through his paces, manoeuvering him to help us share with everyone else what The Dude and the player was trying to act out. We love that there is not much to this game, but we had a lot of fun playing.
Our family loved when we saw a player with The Dude trying to act something out and we could not guess what they were trying to say. We found this funnier than the situations on the playing cards (some of which were very funny). This game will definitely be in our game rotation this summer!
Guessing hits and misses
Overall, we had a lot of fun playing most of the games we received from Kroeger Inc. Even though we were all guessed out trying how to Rob a Bank, guessing brought us so much amusement when we played Mouthguard Challenge and Who’s The Dude?! Trying to communicate with challenges was a blast! Sometimes, properly pronounced words (or none at all) were not needed to have a good time. Since there is not much to these games, they would be great to take anywhere to play for a Game Night, or to a cottage to totally disconnected this summer! We love playing these two games!
Would you like to see other ways Kroeger Inc. can make get-togethers fun? We visited their website and followed their Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest pages to find other toys and games they had to offer!
Disclaimer: I received products from Kroeger Inc. in order to review their products. The views I shared are my own.
Breakaway Experiences is a service that offers Canadians with a shopping directory of unique packages from different companies that range from spas and restaurants to raceway and helicopter tours to gift to loved ones and friends, or to use for themselves. Their goal: To give the recipient of this service a fun and unforgettable experience they will not forget. Breakaway Experiences started providing unique gift experiences in 2014.
Visiting Family and Friends? Surprise Them With Unique Gift Experiences
We have been on two very different and fun adventures with Breakaway Experiences: an outdoor experience golfing for the first time then a culinary workshop with other foodies to create a savoury four-course dinner. Getting to have experiences like these can be so much better than unwrapping a gift since you can have the memory of these adventures for many years to come.
Visiting Family and Friends?
Surprise Them With Unique Gift Experiences!
Below are some amazing experiences across Canada you can take part in and you can check out the ones available in Ottawa too!
Light the Night Kayaking Tour
Light the Night Kayaking Tour
Vancouver, British Columbia
Watch the sun go down as you explore the waters off Granville Island by night on the Vancouver Kayaking Tour. After sunset, paddle into English Bay as your LED lights illuminate the water.
Superfly Ziplines
Superfly Ziplines
Whistler, British Columbia
Soar down the world’s most spectacular ziplines. With cutting edge technology and SIDE-BY-SIDE Superfly Ziplines, you and a friend can fly through the backcountry in a rush of adrenaline and speed.
Oh So Canadian Food Tour
Oh So Canadian Food Tour
Victoria, British Columbia
Sample iconic Canadian dishes and learn more about the history of Victoria. From local ingredients to historic dishes, this fun 3-hour tour is a great way to experience tasty Canadian culinary culture.
Banff Wildlife Tour
Banff Wildlife Tour
Banff, British Columbia
Enjoy the stunning scenery and watch for Banff’s famous wildlife on Banff and Its Wildlife guided tour. Build a connection to this World Heritage Site as you visit landmarks and historic places.
Distillery District Segway Tour
Distillery District Segway Tour
Toronto, Ontario
Explore Toronto’s historic Distillery District via Segway! This exciting Toronto tour is a great way to discover the Distillery District and experience the thrill of riding a Segway!
Scenic Flight Over Toronto
Scenic Flight Over Toronto
Toronto, Ontario
Enjoy a beautiful Scenic Flight over Toronto. Take off right at the foot of the CN Tower, soar over the downtown core, and experience a bird’s eye view of the famous Toronto skyline.
Rideau Canal Cycling, Paddling and Picnicking Day
Rideau Canal Cycling, Paddling and Picnicking Day
Elgin, Ontario
Experience the very best of the Rideau Canal around Chaffey’s Lock with the adventure filled Rideau Canal Cycling, Paddling and Picnicking Day. You’ll be cycling on the Cataraqui Trail, part of the TransCanada Trail system, kayaking on the World Heritage Rideau Canal, and then enjoying a “Flavours of the Rideau” Gourmet picnic.
Star Gazing Dark Sky Experience
Star Gazing Dark Sky Experience
Otter Lake, Quebec
Be enchanted and amazed by the clarity of the Outaouais sky at night! This Star Gazing experience, a short drive from Ottawa & Gatineau, is a great way to experience the grandeur of an unspoiled night sky filled with 1000’s of bright, twinkling stars.
Halifax Guided Sea Kayaking Tour
Halifax Guided Sea Kayaking Tour
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Experience Halifax from an incredible perspective and discover the protected bays, secluded beaches and a rugged coastline at a comfortable pace on a guided kayak tour.
St. John’s Food Tour
St. John’s Food Tour
St. John’s, Newfoundland
Experience the tastes, sights and sounds of historical Downtown St. John’s on a 3-hour guided walking food tour that’s sure to please all your senses!
These are only a few of the unique gift experiences Breakaway Experiences has available on their website for thrill-seekers of all kinds. They also make it is easy to wrap up fun and help anyone choose their own adventure. So take a look at their website and give an experience they will not forget!
Visiting Family and Friends? Surprise Them With Unique Experiences
To learn more about Breakaway Experiences and their unique gift experiences, you can connect with them on their Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+ pages!
Disclaimer: I was compensated by Breakaway Experiences in order to share these gift ideas with you.
Kroeger Inc. knows this and asked me if they could show is how to make get-togethers fun with some of their products and games.
Summer is all about having fun, but not every moment has to be hectic. Long, lazy summer days are times to rest and relax, too, without the use of screens or devices. Creating and playing boards games are two fabulous ways to entertain a group large or small. You can also check out these games we previously reviewed from Kroeger Inc.
Below are the games I received from Kroeger Inc. to make get-togethers fun:
Kids love to craft. Creating lets kids feel that they can do anything. Neat-Oh! Linkt Craft Kits allows children not only to make fun items. The finish products can also be used to brighten their world or someone they love. We received their Hoops & Loops Earring Kit to assemble bright and colourful chainmaille earrings that they can wear or use as gifts.
This kit allows users to make up to 20 pieces of earrings. For this kit, my girls came together to test it out. From start to finish, the kids loved creating earrings. They chose to make the Crescent and Atomic designs. The Magic Layout tool made it easy for my kids to set up their designs and to create their earrings. It only took about ten minutes to assemble each set of earrings.
The end result: some beautiful pieces of jewellery. My kids went on to create more cute pieces and had a blast doing it!
Bob Ross: The Art of Cool Board Game
Art is a cool way to pass the time while enjoying summer. One of the coolest artist many people enjoyed at work was Bob Ross. He made creating art peaceful and cool. When I saw we received Bob Ross: The Art of Chill is a board game, I knew we were going to be in for one chill day.
The object of the game is to finish one of Bob Ross’ works of art before he does to gain “Chill” status. Players collect paint colours and brushes allocated to certain aspects of Bob’s pieces to “paint” features found within each painting. Bob is also setting the pace of the game while giving sage advice and bonus opportunities to obtain “chill” status.
I brought this game over to a friend’s house to have quiet fun while her son napped. Once we understood all of the rules of the game, it was a lot of fun to play. We liked seeing the different paint colours and brushes that were used to bring Bob’s masterpieces to life. We loved acquiring the extra chill points for creating certain features before Bob could get to that part of each work of art. This game made a summer afternoon a chill experience.
Shifty Eyes Spies Game
For most people, communication is verbal. It is easier for us to say what we want than to convey this message in any other way. Shifty Eyes Spies has the gang to make getting the message across to others in a non-verbal way.
Players battle it out to pass around cover communications to other players. Eye winks let other players know you want to give a message to another player. Then you wait for them to relay a meeting place in a discreet manner. If players you are not aligned with intercepts your messages, your cover is blown.
Shifty Eyes Spies is a great game to play! It is really easy to jump into, and is fun to try and let others know what you want without saying a word.
It was also amusing to see other players trying to get the attention of the spies they are connecting with to “get the message” without looking so obvious about it. It is stealthy and challenging. We had a really good time playing this game.
Get-together-musts with Kroeger Inc games!
Overall, these games from Kroeger Inc. are great to have on hand to make get-togethers fun this summer! Creative fun can be had by kids big and small with the Linkt Earring Kit from Net-Oh!. Chill moments can also be fun moments by playing Bob Ross: The Art of Chill. The lack of words is where the fun begins with Shifty Eyes Spies. Whether at home, in the backyard or at the cottage, these items will bring smiles and amusement to groups large and small. My family and friends will be having a blast whenever we choose to #disconnect2connect!
Would you like to see other ways Kroeger Inc. can make get-togethers fun? We visited their website and followed their Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest to find other toys and games they had to offer!
Disclaimer: I received products from Kroeger Inc. in order to review their products. The views I shared are my own.
Montem makes gear to make your adventures easier and asked us if their Sneaky Snuggler Puffy Camping Blanket would allow us to snuggle up in comfort anywhere we take it. We were really excited to try it out!
Comfort. Isn’t this what we all strive for during our down time? Whether we are indoors or out, being cozy makes these mini getaway moments enjoyable. One item that helps my family escape is a blanket. Once underneath it, it is like no other feeling in the world. It is nice to feel comfortable when unwinding from a busy day or when taking in the great outdoors. What is hard is to have a blanket that can be comfy indoors that can make being outside a cushy experience, too.
Montem Sneaky Snuggler Puffy Blanket in its carrying case on a couch with a pillow.
What makes this Sneaky Snuggler Puffy Camping Blanket so great?
There are so many features the Montem Sneaky Snuggler Blanket has to offer. Here are just a few of them:
Has a temperature rating of 40°F+
3D hollow fiber synthetic insulation
Made of 20D ripstop nylon with DWR
Water resistant
Folds out to 54” by 80”
A nylon carrying case with a drawstring closure and handle
These features allow for users to feel warm whether you are indoors or in the great outdoors, is durable and keep you dry in wet conditions, and is large enough for two people to snuggle under. This blanket would be perfect to take when you go camping, enjoying a concert, sitting at a picnic, and so much more! Finally, it rolls up into a much smaller version of itself (9” by 17”) and fits into its nylon carrying case. This makes it compact and easy to take on your adventures.
The chilly snuggle couch test
Out of everyone in my family, I was the most excited to try this blanket out. I am always in search of comfort when at home. No matter what the weather is like, I like to feel cozy and cocooned under a blanket. I could not wait to try it out!
Since we are already in the thick of the scorching days of summer, the air conditioning is working hard to keep us cool. I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to test out the sneaky snuggler camping blanket when I feel, well, frigid in my home.
Woman under the Sneaky Snuggle Puffy Blanket on a couch.
I quickly unrolled my blanket, flicked it out of its rolled position, and wiggled my way underneath it in my favourite spot on the couch. It was hard to want to move out of this spot. My kids are also big snugglers, and could not wait to feel comfy under this blanket.
Boy under the Sneaky Snuggle Puffy Blanket on a couch.
The outdoor comfort test
Taking the Sneaky Snuggler Puffy Camping Blanket outdoors is the ultimate test! One of our favourite things to do is to set up a picnic to lounge and munch on some yummy snacks while playing outside. What better opportunity to test my Montem camping blanket than to use it to enjoy a spread of food al fresco.
Family picnicking on the Sneaky Snuggle Puffy Blanket.
All I have to say is that this blanket made snacking and relaxing while having fun in our backyard so much more comfortable. We usually eat around our table, but this blanket made the hard surface we were sitting on cushier and more inviting. I can’t wait to use this blanket to cushion our deck’s bench and our deck chair while we have fun outdoors.
A snuggly result
My family loves using our Montem Sneaky Snuggler Puffy Camping Blanket all around our home. It is light and warm, cuddling us while we relax in our living room. This blanket is also great when taken outdoors. It is soft and cushiony, allowing us to lounge in comfort while we spend time together in our backyard. I can’t wait to take this blanket for our next movie night or on camping trips we will be taking this year. Our blanket from Montem lets is be comfortable wherever we go. We are so happy to have it!
Snuggle Up in Comfort with Montem
Curious what else Montem has to offer? We checked out their products Montem on their website and followed them on their Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages to be in touch with the latest from this company!
Disclaimer: I received products from Montem to write this review. The views I share are my own.
Do you love drinking slushies? Why not make them at home? There are so many great flavours to choose from. Below, you’ll find 15 recipes for slushies that are sure to refresh you.
Summer is here and woo is it hot. While ice water is a great way to stay hydrated, what if you want something sweet? On a REALLY hot day, the thought of drinking a milkshake can almost turn your stomach. Thankfully, there are so many more options. One of the best options is making refreshing slushies. They can be found at a number of fast food restaurants and even convenient stores. The only problem is you often wonder how old those slushies are swirling around in those big machines and what’s in them. Make them yourself!
Refreshing Slushies Recipes
Easy slushie recipes
These slushies are great for making for you and your family after a day at the pool or beach. These are also great for barbecues. You can make up a huge batch just as easily as you make up a small one. If you’re making a batch for adults, you can also add a splash of your favourite alcohol to turn these into adult slushies.
You won’t believe all the flavours you can make and how easy slushies are to make. If you want something REALLY simple, consider pouring your favourite juice into ice cube trays and freezing. You can then add these ice cubes to a blender along with more juice. Try adding a different juice from the one you froze for a combination of flavours.
15 Refreshing Slushies
Whether you love fruity drinks or even coffee drinks, you can make a slushie that everyone in the family is going to love. Try playing around with flavours. You can use everything from Kool Aid to sports drinks to lemonade to make slushies. Use these recipes as a starting point for creating your own flavours.
I hope you enjoyed our list of 15 Refreshing Slushies. With the temperature reaching record breaking stats, these are the perfect way to stay cool during the hot summer days. Let us know which one you liked the most below. If you make any of these, let us know by sharing with us on Facebook or Twitter!
Summer is all about taking it easy. For me, wearing clothes that allows me to move and breathe is the aim for many of my outfits at this time of the year. What is the problem with this way of thinking? Sometimes, pieces that are comfortable may not look stylish. I really love to have pieces in my summer wardrobe that I could go from lounging around my home to going out and about around town. LegArt Apparel wants to share their solution to this issue with their lines of leggings, tops, dresses, and more. They asked if I would be able to wear some of their pieces to see if I would be able to feel comfortable and stylish this summer.
Wear Comfort and Style this Summer with LegArt Apparel – Review
Below are the pieces I chose from LegArt Apparel to add to my summer wardrobe are:
Blue Danube Leggings
Brae Teal Top
Bright White Donna Vest
Adalyn Dark Grey Dress
Stretching out of a yoga gear comfort zone
When I work out, I tend to stick to basic pieces without prints to wear. I wanted to branch out of what I was used to wearing with the Blue Danube Leggings.
When I pulled on these leggings, I was so surprised at how soft and comfortable they were. The material felt light and airy. It was hard to believe that I was actually wearing leggings.
I was also impressed with the Blue Danube pattern. Though the material is dark, the pattern is bright and whimsical. They are really fun to wear and easy to move around in. They are new staples in my yoga and workout outfits.
A combo adding style and comfort to chill gear
All work and no play makes for a very boring summer season. When it is time to sit back and relax, I like to feel as though I am at ease while looking ready to go and have fun. The Brae Teal Top and the Bright White Donna Vest are a perfect to add in my summer wardrobe.
I am a HUGE fan of jewel tones, and the Brae Teal Top brings out the colour in my skin. This top slips on easily and it flows around the rest of my body.
The Bright White Donna Vest added a light layer of style to the Brae Teal Top. It also brought some light to my outfit, allowing me to be cool while taking in the sun and the heat in my backyard. Both pieces are fun and easy to wear, and pulled my ensemble together that I can wear any day during the summer season.
Stylish summer comfort at its best
Finding pieces to wear out that are stylish and comfortable can be hard to find for a summer wardrobe. I was really excited to see what the Adalyn Dark Grey Dress is a fabulous item to have that gives you both of these looks.
This dress is my favourite piece I got to review from LegArt. Its high waist and ruched top help to flatter certain areas I like to keep under wraps. The pockets make it easy to carry small items with you or to slip your hands in when needed.
The feature I just can’t get over is the overall ease I feel when I wear this dress. Honestly, it is as though I am wearing a gorgeous nightgown while I’m out and about. I really get excited to wear this dress and I feel absolutely fabulous whenever I wear it.
An overwhelming success!
Overall, I really enjoyed wearing all of the pieces I received from LegArt Apparel. The Blue Danube Leggings and Brae Teal Top worked together to be a fun combination that are helping me to branch out to want to wear patterns on my yoga apparel. The Bright White Donna Vest is handy to have to add a layer of cozy style to an outfit. Wearing the Adalyn Dark Grey Dress makes running errands or a fun time out a joy. All of these items will make my summer one filled with style and comfort.
Are you curious to see what else LegArt Apparel has to offer to wear comfort and style this summer? We checked out their website and followed them on their Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest pages!
Wear Comfort and Style this Summer with LegArt Apparel
Disclaimer: I received products from LegArt Apparel to write this review. The views I share are my own.
When you’re inside the gates of your favourite Walt Disney Park, don’t forget to keep an eye out for Disney World Hidden Mickeys. It’s a free activity that adds a bit of fun and adventure to an already exciting day. Keep reading, to learn more about how this phenomenon came about and some of the best ways to locate this famous little mouse.
What Are Hidden Mickeys?
Finding Hidden Mickeys at Walt Disney World has been a past time of guests for years and years. Simply put, a Hidden Mickey is the silhouette of Mickey Mouse (usually in the form of the familiar circles that make up his head and ears) hidden somewhere among the visual elements of the park in a way that isn’t immediately obvious.
This can lead to some confusion, since the classic mouse ears are often used as a theme while decorating, such as the mouse ears that adorn lampposts throughout the park. That being said, many park goers agree that a sighting doesn’t officially count as a Hidden Mickey unless it’s obviously hidden from plain sight in a clever way.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Main Entrance
Where Can They Be Found?
You have the chance find a Hidden Mickey anywhere in the park. It might be hiding in the backdrop of a ride, decorating the tables at a restaurant, or tucked away in the waiting area of one of the attractions.
Some of them are quite cleverly hidden, while others are a bit easier to spot. They aren’t so uncommon throughout the park, so keep your eyes open and you’ll be spotting them in no time. Hidden Mickeys aren’t necessarily limited to the park either. If you’re lucky, you may even find a few back at your resort.
When Did the Tradition Start?
Disney Imagineers have been hiding Mickey Mouse in park elements since the opening of Epcot. Because alcohol was originally slated to be served in that section of the park, Disney officials didn’t like the idea of including its characters in design elements.
However, the designers got together and decided to defy the ruling by hiding the tiny images in honour the beloved cartoon character. Eventually, Mr. Disney gave in to fan requests regarding the use of the iconic character at Epcot. But, the tradition of hiding Mickey was already well into play.
Soarin’ attraction at Epcot
Where Do I Start?
All you need to do to start your search for Hidden Mickeys (while in the park) is take a look around or when your family is doing a Disney World scavenger hunt and challenges. Once you’ve spotted them, you’ll want some way to keep track of your findings so that you remember them later. Think about bringing a printable Mickey Mouse Card, a journal along with you to note the location of the Mickeys you find, or take pictures with a camera or your phone to show friends and family after your trip.
If you get stumped on where to look for more, there are a few resources that can help you. You can’t get an official guide from Disney, as park officials won’t even acknowledge that they exist in order to enhance the mystery. What’s the solution? A number of guests now maintain blogs to share information on Hidden Mickeys and to offer hints on how to find them.
Armed with this information, it should be easier for you to start your search for Disney’s Hidden Mickeys. If you love to solve mysteries, this activity is definitely for you!
Disney World Hidden Mickeys and Printable Mickey Mouse Cards
Printable Mickey Mouse Cards
To help you make a fun game of finding the Hidden Mickeys, I created printable Mickey Mouse cards for you to download HERE or click on the photos below! You can also laminate them in case of a rainy day, or if you want to bring them on wet rides. They will fit perfectly in a pocket!
Printable Disney Hidden Mickey Cards
How to use the printable Mickey Mouse cards:
Each family member gets a card.
Write each name on a card (optional: laminate after).
When you find a Hidden Mickey, punch one of the Mickey Mouse icons with a handheld 1 hole punch.
When you are done finding the 12 Hidden Mickeys, you may treat your family members to some delicious Disney Food. After all, you worked hard to find them!
I’m hoping they will help make your trip more memorable and magical!
If you’ve ever had any type of food cooked over the open campfire, then you know that there is nothing like it. The flavour, the smokiness, the ooey gooey centre of those s’mores…all irresistible and delicious. Once you’ve gone camping one time and tried food that has been cooked over the campfire, you are certain to be hooked. If you love everything campfire cooked, here are 12 amazing Campfire Camping Recipes that you have to try!
Campfire Camping Recipes
Campfire Camping Recipes
Campfire Popcorn. If you love popcorn, you will love it even more over the fire. Imagine snuggling up near the fire and snacking on those crunchy popped kernels. Sounds perfect to me!
Campfire Stew. Looking for a hearty stew that you can eat from a bowl surrounded by the warmth of your campfire? This is the stew recipe that you’ve been searching for!
Cast Iron Skillet Cookie Recipe. Who says that s’mores are the only sweets that you can cook over the open fire? This recipe is sure to be a family favorite!
Campfire Cones. A super, fun twist on a recipe to make s’more a bit less messy. But still delicious!
Grilled Pineapple. A fresh, fun flavorful way to eat pineapple that is sure to hit all your taste buds.
One Skillet Sausage and Egg Breakfast Hash. Looking for a hearty and super simple breakfast that fuels your body for a day of enjoying nature? This is the recipe for you!
Mason Jar Boozy Tropical Fruit Salad. While this recipe isn’t necessarily cooked over the campfire, it is one that can be made and enjoyed easily while you are sitting and talking around the campfire!
Grilled Orange Beef Kabobs. Who can resist cooking kabobs over the open fire? Talk about a super simple, healthy and fun option for your campfire dinner!
Campfire Skillet Apples. This sweet treat is a great way to wind down after a long day of enjoying the beauty of mother nature.
Grilled Marinated Onion Slices. Perfect on their own or paired up with another side dish. Full of flavor and super simple to prepare!
Potatoes on the Grill. Talk about a fun food that packs a punch when camping. Super hearty and full of smoky goodness, this recipe is a must for your camping adventure!
Campfire Camping Recipes
With these 12 recipe options for great campfire food, you won’t have any problems creating some delicious and awesome camping dishes for all to enjoy! Have fun spending time with family and friends while sitting around the campfire enjoying some delicious food!
I hope you enjoyed my list of 12 Campfire Camping Recipes. My family has loved making a few of these. If you make any of these, share them with us on Facebook or Twitter!
Let us know in the comments below which one of these summertime treats is your favourite.
Summer is here and what better way to celebrate than ice cream? What about ice cream that’s loaded with in-season berries, like strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries? If you love ice cream and berries, you’re going to love these berry ice cream recipes. There are so many different ones to try. You can also use whatever berries you like in these recipes. If you like strawberries, use them. If you like blueberries, use them.
Berry Ice Cream
Homemade ice cream recipes
There really are recipes for everyone in the list below. These homemade ice cream recipes are great for summer get togethers. Imagine having an amazing barbecue and then homemade ice cream for dessert. Everyone at the party is going to love having a delicious, cool treat. You could make a few different kinds for everyone to try and set up an ice cream bar. No one will be able to resist.
how to store homemade ice cream
If you’re going to make homemade ice cream or ice cream treats, you want to make sure to store them properly. Because ice cream has a high fat content, it can easily soak up odours from your freezer. This means you want to store ice cream in an airtight container. You may even want to place a layer of wax paper on top of the ice cream before adding the lid. This will also ensure that your ice cream lasts longer and doesn’t become freezer burnt.
Very Berry Ice Cream Recipes
Berry Ice Cream Recipes
The next time you reach for a pint of ice cream, consider making your own. The ability to control the ingredients that go into your desserts (and be able to pronounce them) makes it worth the time. Not to mention that homemade ice cream tastes so much better than anything you’ll buy from the store. Why not choose one or two recipes and start filling your freezer with homemade berry ice cream treats?
Click on the links below to grab these delicious berry ice cream recipes!
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