Trend To Try: Adult Coloring Books

When I was a little girl my favorite past time was coloring. It satisfied my OCD tendencies and calmed my normally energetic self. I could sit for hours to color and never became bored. I learned my coloring skills from my sister Holly who was always a good colorer. I can remember watching her out of the corner of my eye, taking note to her technique and trying to adapt my own to mimic hers.

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Must-See: "PARAMOUR" on Broadway

Whenever anyone asks me for recommendations for Broadway shows, I fall silent. Although I love seeing shows on Broadway, it's not one of those things that I do often or regularly. I usually go when a friend suggests we see a show or when a favorite celebrity has a limited engagement appearance in a show.

When I was invited to see Cirque du Soleil's PARAMOUR on Broadway, I was slightly intrigued. Hmmm. Cirque du Soleil + Broadway = ???. I wasn't sure what to expect. Would the show consist primarily of Cirque du Soleil's trademark acrobats and contortionists or would it be filled with the song and dance that makes Broadway famous?

I had seen only one other Cirque du Soleil show, "La Nouba" in the West Side at Disney Springs back in 1999. It was spectacular and awe-inspiring. I was certainly up for seeing another Cirque du Soleil show if it compared to "La Nouba".

“Cirque du Soleil Paramour is a terrific summertime evening.

Bring the kids. Or, forget the kids – bring your personal trainer.”

- Cindy Adams, The New York Post

Emma, Harper, and I took a train into Manhattan last week to experience PARAMOUR. It didn't disappoint. The combination of singing and dancing that is typical Broadway combined with acrobatics, flipping, and flying that is typical of Cirque du Soleil were a feast for our eyes. There were moments that took our breath away and others where we held our breath in suspense.

PARAMOUR takes place during the Golden Age of Hollywood and is a tale about a budding young actress who is forced to make a choice between love and her theatrical art. The story is set to eye-popping acrobatics and glorious music and dance that hold you captive for two hours.

When the show first started, I was a bit confused as to how and why it was associated with Cirque du Soleil as it was very heavy on singing and dancing. But soon after the first scene, it was obvious that "Paramour" is most definitely a Cirque du Soleil show. We loved everything from the gymnasts and jugglers to the singers and dancers.

I enjoyed how seamlessly the circus acts were weaved into the show. For us, they provided the real entertainment. The love story was somewhat predictable from the beginning. You could have guessed how it would turn out. So, we were always looking forward to the next acrobatic moves and feats.

If you are in search of a Broadway show that's a bit different from any you've ever seen, get tickets to see PARAMOUR. It's both impressive and exciting and perfect for all ages. Because of the fast past and awesome feats, children will be especially enthralled.

PARAMOUR is currently playing at the Lyric Theatre. For showtimes and ticketing information, visit Ticketmaster.

You can also find more information about PARAMOUR on social media:

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Disclosure: I received complimentary tickets to see PARAMOUR. All opinions are my own.

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Get It Now: Fun & Funky

If you're looking for something fun for yourself or a gift for that special bestie who's always up for a good laugh, here are a few whimsical suggestions.

Pillow | Phone Case | T-Shirt | Sleep Mask | Tassle Key Chain | Fox Socks | Wine Glass Earrings | Donut Purse | Cat Ring | Stormtrooper Slippers

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Bahama Breeze: A Restaurant For All Occasions

This post is written in partnership with Bahama Breeze, All opinions are my own.

Although we love a quaint celebration at home, but for a nice change of pace, we enjoy a celebration out at a restaurant. Who doesn't love the chance to sit back and leave the cooking, serving, and cleaning up to someone else? Whether you are celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, a girls' night out, a retirement, or a report card of straight As, Bahama Breeze can make your celebration a memorable one.

On a recent Saturday, the girls and I had a shopping trip planned to pick out the dress Emma would wear to the dinner/dance during her 8th grade trip to Washington, D.C. But before we hit the mall, we wanted to have lunch. We were eager to try somewhere new, and we mutually decided on Bahama Breeze in Toms River.

Upon our first step into Bahama Breeze, we were immediately transported to the tropics. Lush tropical plants and decor surround you, giving you the feeling of being on a tropical island.

We ordered some icy beverages and perused the menu. The girls ordered non-alcoholic piña coladas, and I ordered the "Shark Attack Shack" rum flight. You can read more about my beverage choice here.

Bahama Breeze mixes up a variety of cocktails including signature cocktails. legendary island cocktails, tropical favorites as well as non-alcoholic concoctions, beer, wine, and sangria. Bahama Breeze proudly serves premium spirits and takes pride in every drink the mixologists make.

While we leisurely enjoyed our delicious drinks, we munched on the coconut shrimp appetizer. The large, succulent and crunchy shrimp are served with a citrus-mustard sauce.

Bahama Breeze specializes in American cuisine with an island infusion. Caribbean-inspired specialties abound, and whether you are a seafood lover or a landlubber, there's something on the menu for everyone to enjoy.

Both the manager Matt and our server were all too willing to give us recommendations and offer up their favorite menu items. I seriously wanted to order every item on the menu, so their feedback was very welcome.

After going back and forth between the Calypso Shrimp Linguine and the Lobster Mac & Cheese, I ended up going with the mac and cheese. One bite, and I knew I made the right choice. It was delicious. It was rich but not so much so that you could barely have more than 5 bites. The side of fresh green beans offered a nice balance to the richness of the lobster and the cheesy pasta.

Although there is a kids' menu, my girls ordered from the regular menu. They were both eager to try Caribbean twists on their favorite foods. Emma, who has a penchant for spicy foods, ordered the Jamaican Jerk Chicken and cleaned her plate.

Harper ordered the Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad and was thrilled with it. The chicken is marinated in a mango sauce before it's grilled, and the salad is topped with huge shavings of Parmesan cheese.

And what's dinner without dessert? Bahama Breeze has six desserts on the menu, all sound as mouthwatering as the next, and after much discussion, we finally agreed on Rebecca's Key Lime Pie, a tangy pie with handmade brown sugar crust and peaks of golden meringue.

Whether you are celebrating a momentous occasion or a small milestone, let Bahama Breeze play host to your next gathering.  If it's cocktails and appetizers for one or dinner for ten, Bahama Breeze brings the islands to you in a fun, vibrant, and lighthearted atmosphere.

Bahama Breeze also hosts a happy hour Monday through Friday from 4 pm to 6 pm and a late night happy hour Sunday through Thursday from 10 pm to close. Enjoy hand-crafted cocktails, half-priced appetizers, and a good time.

For more information, follow Bahama Breeze on its social channels below and on the Web at www.bahamabreeze.com.

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Bahama Breeze, Toms River is located at 1201 Hooper Avenue (on the outskirts of the Ocean County Mall). For more information, call 732-736-7012. 

This post is written in partnership with Bahama Breeze.

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Rumtoberfest is Happening NOW at Bahama Breeze

This post is written in partnership with Bahama Breeze.

It's Halloween in the islands, and that can mean only one thing: Fun! While you may be thinking Oktoberfest, it's time to shift your thinking to Rumtoberfest. Yes! A celebration of rum and fun is happening right now through November 8, 2015 at the Bahama Breeze in Toms River, New Jersey.

What is Rumtoberfest?
Every Friday through November 8th, Bahama Breeze invites you to its Toms River location for barrels (pun intended!) of rum-fun which includes live music, a fortune teller, a friendly pirate, games, prizes, and even secret password specials. To go along with all the fun and games, Bahama Breeze will be serving signature Rumtoberfest flights and Hurricanes. Keep your eyes peeled for the rum barrel as it makes its way around the restaurant. You don't get more authentic than that!

I sat down and settled in for my "flight"...rum flight, that is.

If you are looking for a quick island getaway, a Rumtoberfest rum flight is your answer. There are three different cocktail flights to choose from, each flight priced at $9.79 per flight. Matt, one of the Bahama Breeze managers at the Toms River location suggested the "Shark Attack Shack" flight for me. Or if you are a rum aficiondo, sample a flight of straight rums. Bahama Breeze offer top shelf rums that will please your palette and give you the ultimate island experience.

The "Shark Attack Shack" included the Painkiller (Pusser's Dark Rum, cream of coconut, pineapple and orange juices with freshly ground nutmeg), the Yaka Hula Hickey Dula (pineapple juice, Riesling, and Bacardi Black Rum), and the Zombie (Barcardi Black and Barbancourt Rums with Peach Schnapps). Although each was delicious in it's own right, my favorite was the Painkiller. It tasted like a liquid pina colada. Delicious!

Can you tell that I thoroughly enjoyed my Rumtoberfest rum flight?

In addition to the Shark Attack Shack, there are two additional rum-filled cocktail flights to delight you. "Mama's Hooch & Holler" and "Float My Boat Bar" will transport you to islands with warm breezes, steel drums, and lazy afternoons in the sun.

Whether you are a rum expert or just trying it for the first time Rumtoberfest is for you. There's no need to hop on an airplane to head to the islands. It's much easier than that. Hop in your car and head to Bahama Breeze in Toms River.

Unleash your inner creative islander and show up in your best island costume for a scary good time at Bahama Breeze. Not into costumes? No worries. How about a pirate tattoo instead? Whatever your fancy, you'll find plenty of fun and rum at Rumtoberfest.

Rumtoberfest will be celebrated every Friday at the Toms River Bahama Breeze location through November 8. For more information, follow Bahama Breeze on its social channels below and on the Web at www.bahamabreeze.com.

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Bahama Breeze, Toms River is located at 1201 Hooper Avenue (on the outskirts of the Ocean County Mall). For more information, call 732-736-7012. 

This post is written in partnership with Bahama Breeze.

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Summer Fun at Jenkinson's Boardwalk #JenksMemory

When you think of summer fun at the Jersey Shore, you think of Jenkinson's Boardwalk and Amusements. Jenkinson's, located in Point Pleasant Beach, is your one-stop shop for family fun and entertainment. Jenkinson's dominates the Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk with an amusement and arcade area, an aquarium, miniature golf, several food concessions, and a nightclub.

From the beach to the boardwalk, Jenksinson's offers plenty to put smiles on everyone's face for an entire day or for a few hours.

Come for a day or a week and enjoy the sprawling beach complete with palm trees. Beaches are open daily during the summer season.

A little too hot for the beach? Head indoors where it's cooler and the sharks are behind glass! The Jenkinson's Aquarium features your favorite creatures from sea habitats including sharks, penguins and seals.

On our most recent visit to the aquarium, we were lucky enough to catch a diver cleaning the tank.

Kiddos and adults will get a thrill in the amusement area. Rides for every age abound. If you are seeking a thrill on the tame side, try the train or the carousel. My girls have long abandoned the tame rides in favor of those with more speed and more spins!

Feeling competitive? How about a good, old-fashioned game of miniature golf. Or for a slower pace, a walk through the Fun House is always a good idea.

Jenkinson's is open daily, but hours vary from attraction to attraction. Check the web site for specific hours.

Jenkinson's offers special events throughout the year including Hot Halloween, Boo at the Boardwalk and Christmas in July. Tuesday afternoons and Friday evenings are wristband days where you have access to unlimited rides for one low price. See web site for details.

What are you waiting for? Hope in the car and head to Jenkinson's today!

Disclosure: As a Jenkinson's Ambassador, I have been provided with a voucher for my visits. All opinions expressed are always my own.

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Spotlight on the Jersey Shore: Jenkinson's Boardwalk {Giveaway} #JenksMemory

I am thrilled to announce that, again this summer, I am happily partnering with Jenkinson's Boardwalk and Jersey Moms Blog as a summer ambassador. I and several other New Jersey bloggers have been invited to share our love of Jenkinson's and show you how Jenkinson's can create a true Jersey shore experience for you and your family.

Ever since I first moved to the Jersey shore back in 2001, every summer has included several trips to Jenkinson's Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach. You can read more about my love of Jenkinson's here, here and here.

When I think of summer family fun, I think of Jenkinson's Boardwalk. From the beach to the aquarium to boardwalk games, rides, and a fun house, it's a jam-packed day of fun for the entire family. Oh, and let's not forget about the Sweet Shop!

Jenkinson's beach movies

Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, channel your inner marine biologist, indulge your palate, or feed your sense of adventure, Jenkinson's has something for you. Or if you are like I am, you want to do it all! And Jenkinson's makes it possible to experience all it has to offer in a day.

We love the beach movies. They offer a relaxing Friday night under the stars. See the full summer 2015 schedule for dates, times, and movie titles.

Whether beaching it is your thing or you are looking for a day of adventure, Jenkinson's has you covered. With miniature golf, amusement rides and fun house, an aquarium, a sprawling beach and bath house, souvenir shops, food, food, and more food, you'll want for nothing when you visit Jenkinson's.

Can't wait to go?WIN A GUEST VOUCHER FOR UP TO 5 PEOPLE

Jenkinson's is generously offering one Pieces of a Mom reader a 2015 Guest Voucher for up to five (5) people (guest wristbands will be issued). The wristbands include complimentary access to:

• amusement park
• beach
• bath house
• miniature golf
• aquarium
• fun house

Voucher is valid Monday through Friday only and excludes holidays. It expires on 12/31/2015. The guest voucher does not include parking. Winner will redeem voucher at the Pavilion Office after 9 am or Amusement Park office after 12 pm for wristbands. The voucher is non-transferable and ID is required to redeem. Must be 18 years of age to enter to win.

Enter to win using the Rafflecopter widget below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway 


Disclosure: I received guest vouchers as well as paid compensation as part of the Jenks Ambassador program.

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Top Tips For Planning A Perfect Family Day Out

As a parent myself, I understand how challenging it can be to pull off a flawless family excursion, even those that are just day trips. The truth is you can’t possibly plan for everything. Unfortunately, tears and tantrums will happen from time to time. But, what you can do is put effort into the parts that are within your control so that the likelihood of unhappy children and fed up parents is minimal. This will allow each one of you to enjoy these family experiences which, after all, are designed to be fun! 

Photo credit

Here are my top tips for planning the perfect family day out.

Get the whole family involved in the planning and decision-making

The planning of family activities shouldn’t rest all on one person’s shoulders. If your children are old enough, they should be involved in these fun family plans. Indeed, your partner should also be there to help and provide suggestions for these occasions. When you make plans as a family, it releases some of the pressure off you and makes everyone feel included.

Keep it simple

I often find myself stressing about travel, activities, timing, food and all sorts of things before a family excursion. Most of the time I’m stressed because I’ve made plans that are far more complicated than they need to be. Keep things as simple and straightforward as possible for a stress-free time. Pick one or two activities per outing and do them properly. It can be tempting to try and squeeze in as much as possible in order to avoid periods where the kids might get bored. Focus on quality rather than quantity for a far more relaxing and enjoyable trip. Additionally, choose attractions, restaurants and cafes that are in proximity to avoid having to take long journeys in between.

Arrange as much as you can in advance

If there is anything you can easily organize in advance of your family excursion, do it! Take food for example. You may wish to prepare a picnic lunch or stop at a a favorite restaurant along the way. You can check out menus online before you go or review the latest KFC menu prices as well as other popular food destinations to peruse what’s available and how much you’ll be spending.

You may also be able to book tickets for transport and attractions in advance. This will ensure you beat long lines and avoid missing out on things you and your family want to do on your trip. Bags can be packed the night before with snacks, drinks, maps and things to keep the kids occupied while you are traveling.

Prepare for the unexpected

Try to be as prepared for unexpected events as you can. This will give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on enjoying the day. For example, you may wish to bring waterproof clothing in case the weather takes a turn for the worse. Summer rain showers can come out of no where. You might also want to arm yourself with a couple of backup plan ideas in case venues are closed, or restaurants are busy.

Relax and have fun!

We all know that when we are uptight we are irritable. The fact is, you’ve put lots of effort into making this a wonderful family excursion, and so you can now relax and concentrate on spending quality time with your loved ones.

Please share your tips too!  

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6 Fun Breaks To Take During the Work Day

Whether you work at home or in a corporate environment, small but effective ways to break up the work day are a MUST.

I've been working from home for almost three years now, and I've learned that short breaks help to refresh my mind and motivate me for the second half of my day.

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Fun Projects For Kids To Do At Home to Beat Boredom

The weather is awful, but that doesn’t mean that you have to sit in the house with the kids, wishing the time away. There are some great home projects that you can undertake to ensure that you don’t have to hear the most dreaded of phrases, “I’m bored”. When it comes to devising a list of activities, it can irk on the side of dull. But, being armed with some fun projects is an excellent way to beat the winter boredom and to ensure that you have lots of fun and laughs in the process.

Here are some great things that you can do when the weather isn't cooperating on the weekends or during school breaks.

Movie Marathon Madness

A movie marathon is a must on a rainy day. But, that doesn’t mean you have to be glued to the box. You can make your own snacks for your movie marathon. Popcorn is simple to make and is a fun activity all-round. Watching the popcorn form in the saucepan is sure to keep your kids enthralled. You can even make milkshakes or healthy smoothies too. It’s a great way to get your kids in the kitchen, and you'll save money too.

Become a Nature Detective

The weather may be awful, but you don’t want to keep the kids cooped up all day. Give them a notepad and a pen and send them outside in the yard to do some observing. Ask them to jot down animals and plants that they see. Ask them to make note of the sky and the weather. You can even get them to draw things that they find. Encourage them to collect rocks, leaves and pine cones and make a fun collage when the nature hunt has ended.

Baking and Cooking: Getting Messy in the Kitchen

Baking is an excellent way to keep your kids riveted this half term. But, you don’t have to stick to cupcakes. There are lots of fun ways that you can cook up a storm. You can make jam tarts, scones and other tea time treats. Kids will love the messy element of baking, but they will also be learning some valuable life skills in the process. Everyone is a winner!

photo credit

Revamp Old Clothes: It’s Time to Tie Dye

Tie dye has long been an easy way to revamp old clothes. You can even pick up some plain white t-shirts from a local thrift store. The great thing about tie dye is that it’s not messy. It’s a great way for your kids to unleash their inner fashion designer too. All you need is an old bucket, different colored dyes, or a pre-made tie dye kit. and some string or rubber bands to make the patterns. It’s fun and effortless. Plus, the kids will love making their own unique designs.

Sewing Projects

Sewing projects can be a great way to beat the boredom. Make sure that you have a starter sewing machine or a starter sewing kit that is suitable for kids. You can make your own sock puppets, stuffed toys or patchwork quilts. Unleash your creativity and make your own toys and home decor projects that kids are sure to love for years to come. You can even decorate your new toys with buttons, ribbon and googly eyes.

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Fall Fun: Jenkinson's Boo at the Boardwalk #JenksAmbassador

For two weekends in the fall, Jenkinson's Boardwalk hosts Boo on the Boardwalk, a seaside celebration filled with Halloween fun including games, trick-or-treating and more. The kids get a chance to take an early spin in their costumes and collect candy from Jenkinson's businesses including the Sweet Shop and the aquarium.

On Saturday, we took a stroll on the boardwalk to check out the festivities. It was a nice switch up from the pumpkin patches and apple orchards that we've been visiting as of late.

There was plenty of fun for the kiddos including a coloring table with fun and spooky pictures. You could even turn your coloring creation into a mask.

There was a prize wheel. You spin it. You win it!

There were fun photo opps including a threesome of scarecrows.

And a Jenkinson's step and repeat.

We had a chance to sneak in a few games of Skee-Ball too!

After the boardwalk fun, we headed to the aquarium. The penguins are in the spirit of Halloween!

Our timing couldn't have been more perfect. We hit the seal and shark feedings.

Jenkinson's Boo on the Boardwalk is a limited engagement. You can enjoy the fun on Saturday, October 25th and Sunday, October 26th from 12 - 4 pm. The aquarium hours are 10 am - 5 pm on Saturdays and Sunday.

For more information, visit jenkinsons.com.

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5 Must-Dos at Knoebels Amusement Park

Two weeks ago we visited Knoebels Amusement Park, and although it wasn't our first visit to Knoebels, we enjoyed a few firsts on this particular visit. Knoebels is located in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, about an hour northeast of Hershey. The drive there is a scenic one and provides plenty of pretty views of the mountains that we don't see here in coastal New Jersey.

What I love most about Knoebels is that, as amusement parks go, it's on the smaller side and there is no general admission cost. You pay per ride. There is also the option of purchasing a day pass for unlimited rides, but it's available Monday through Friday only. I can't tolerate many of the rides that I could as a child, so this type of pricing works well for me. It's also great for grandparents who may want to experience all the fun with the family but have no desire to take in the amusement rides.

Once you get to the park, deciding what to do first can be overwhelming. Here are my picks for 5 must-dos at Knoebels Amusement Park.

1. Phoenix Roller Coaster
This coaster originated in San Antonio, Texas, and was brought to Knoebels in 1985. This coaster is, hands down, my favorite ride at Knoebels. It's filled with hill after hill, and it's not a jarring roller coaster. It's smooth, and just plain fun. There's a 42" height requirement, and if your children meet that requirement, I recommend that you encourage them to go on it.



2. Twister Roller Coaster
Twister, like Phoenix, is a wooden roller coaster that's ideal for thrill seekers. Twister delights riders with a series of twists, turns, and curves that will literally leave your head spinning.

Image credit: Knoebels Amusement Park

3. StratosFear
Strap yourself in and go up 148' in the air. Take in the view but do it quickly because within seconds you plunge 148' to the ground. For the true thrill seeker.

Image credit: Knoebels Amusement Park

4. Scenic Skyway
When you need a break from the fast-paced thrill rides, head for the scenic skyway. Think ski lift without the skiing. This 14 minute ride to the top of the mountain and back down again is a delight for your eyes. Enjoy the gorgeous views as you go up and down the valley. I really wanted to take pictures while on this ride but was so afraid that I'd drop my phone. The views were amazing. For those afraid of heights...you are never very far off the ground as it inclines and decline with you.

Image credit: Knoebels Amusement Park

5. The Flume
The Flume is a must for any amusement park. What I love about most flume rides is that you get wet and refreshed without getting completely soaked. Knoebels' Flume features two hills and plenty of excitement.

Whether you choose to do my 5 must dos or you create your own itinerary, you are bound to have a bunch of happy faces at the end of the day!

In addition to the amusement park, Knoebels has a full-service campground as well.

What are you waiting for? Starting planning your trip to Knoebels Amusement Park and Campground.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for my visit to Knoebels or to write this post. Just wanted to share my positive experience with my readers.

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