Hello October! Summer ‘19 may be gone but the memories are forever

Summer 2019 is officially over and we’re saying hello to Fall!

Just this week we hit a 90 degree day which had the beach written all over it. Instead of hitting the ocean we chose to get in the feeling of fall and head to a farm in New Jersey for apple picking.

We love the actual shop of Battle view orchards in freehold, NJ. So, it was only fitting to collect as many apples as possible (20 to be exact) then head over to the shop to purchase, pies, apple donuts, apple cider, AND candy apple kits once done in the fields.

With Halloween approaching we plan to head back to one of our favorite farm locations. Maple Leaf 🍁 Farm in Manalapan, NJ or Salem NY Harvest Moon Orchard and Wilkins Fruit & Fir Farm. It’s such a privilege to live in a state that has Farming options for fresh fruit and veggies so close by from upstate New York to our neighbors in New Jersey.

Let us know where you’ll be heading during the harvest season? Pumpkins 🎃 or 🍎 Apples or both?

We’re sending Summer off with so much love!

There was less travel to far away destinations but so much love and adventure captured in our CTH (close to home) stay cation destinations.

We’re listing them below and starting with the brand new Lego Land in Goshen, NY

Summer 2020 is going to be “awesome” if you’re a lego fan living close to NY or ready to travel to this new location. It is beyond adventure in the theme park there will also be a resort filled with awesomeness.. I mean is there anything better to look forward to?! Get your passes NOW

~ The Kartrite in Monticello NY

~ The Great Wolf Lodge

~ Martha’s Vineyard

~ Dorney Park

~Hershey Park

Local weekend/Weekday fun included trips to the Zoo, summer camp fun, Partying at Luna Park Coney Island; which will be opening up their halloween 🎃 👻 fun fest “Hello October!”

🏖 Endless beach days

Brigantine NJ

All of the recap has me thinking about planning a new vacay or staycation , how about you?

Winter fun and New exhibits at Liberty Science Center

It’s that time of year when the excitement of winter brings us to great places like Liberty Science Center ; just in time for their winter fun exhibits. We were recently hosted by LSC and our friends at MomTrends to view the new exhibit openings, and had so much fun. The adventure of science is everlasting and tangible right in Jersey City, NJ.

Just when you think you know it all and have all of the clues you learn something new. We’re sharing all about the 2 brand new exhibits as well as a tip and number one ingredient needed to make delicious ice cream.

This photo was captured just as nitrogen was being poured over the already mixed ingredients of milk, cream, sugar and vanilla….. TIP: wear warm gloves because it gets cold BRrrr, as seen here the kiddos were a distance away from the table and the master scientist wore gloves.

Did you know that the #1 ingredient needed for making delicious ice cream is AIR?

After enjoying their ice cream treat we followed the footsteps to find some clues and solve mysteries just like Sherlock Holmes himself. This exhibit is so interactive and fun. When entering the designated area you are greeted with a book of clues to find throughout the exhibit. There are clues and amazing historical find everywhere. We all enjoyed solving the mystery just as it was done in 1800’s. We took a crack at deciphering Morse code and trivial observations just as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle did within his famous books.

After solving mysteries we were in the mood to help Doc McStuffins in her huge (toy) hospital in making the toys feel better .

As we all know it takes lots of team work to make everyone feel better and get the job done…. so that’s just what we did.

Just like Disney’s Doc McStuffins backyard toy hospital you’re able to put on a lab coat and begin working on checkups , ER while learning about health and wellness in a fun environment.

The top kids brand from our holiday gift and style guide

This is a sponsored post yet all opinions are of my own.

Fashion and fun are extremely important parts of the TwinDollicious & Co lifestyle. We love to inspire new trends of style and fashion by sharing awesome brands we know that you’ll love.

We’ve partnered with the amazing Abercrombie Kids, and couldn’t wait to share their A&F club member program. It’s a sign on membership that immediately rewards you $10 off of your first purchase of $50 just for signing up; As well as gaining yourself closer to VIP status with every purchase. Who wouldn’t want faster rewards for every dollar you spend? You will also receive members only offers as well as on your birthday, earn points on every purchase to put towards other great stuff, and receive access to exclusive sales and insider events that only club members can.

‘Tis the season to stay warm and stylish for holiday family photos, just in time to send your greetings to family and friends. Best of all are the gift guide selections from Abercrombie kids .  You will find a great selection of hot styles that are perfect for the chilling cold winter and outdoor play. We’re just as ready for the winter days with the new Abercrombie Kids ultimate Parka

 We were also super excited to have found the softest lined faux fur trimmed coat for the Little’s to love. While we’re at it let’s also talk about the flip sequins that we’ve all come to know and love. Not only are the designed logo sweaters making a statement but unicorns are front and center on this design.

We could not resist the The A & F Logo side legging, which is made for comfort and style. The full Abercrombie Kids just for girls leggings allow for active play. We all know that being stylish and playing in the great outdoors can be a perfect combination.

Once again, don’t miss the opportunity to shop the ideal styles for the kiddos, found at A&F Kids. You can receive 30% OFF select styles sale. This includes all of the fun trends for girls!

Why we choose Thule as our top recommended stroller

If you’ve ever looked around while driving on a road trip and noticed the top rack of other cars they’re probably loaded with Thule. Yes, the sleek carrier atop filled with all you will probably need on your trips.

Thule has been around since 1942, when created in Sweden. Due to the brand being a top rated product for safely transporting anything you care for safely why not move into the baby sector and transport the number one thing (person) in our lives …. the children.

We chose Thule Brand as the stroller for our little Bash as soon as he began walking. It was time for him to have a little more independence, with safety and comfort being the first priorities.

I was totally impressed by the hardware structure and easy collapsible features. We currently have the http://www.thule.com/en-us/strollers/strollers (Urban glide) which is super lightweight, casual and durable for walks.

The NEW Thule sleek is the first four wheel flexible stroller which allows configuration……. single and doublesssss yes twins can ride in Thule as well! There are so many features for moms and dads to enjoy as well as having their sweet little baby ride in style.

These opinions are of my own experience as a mom of a Thule rider.

See below 🙂

#thulecitytosummit

Sharing more beach style and TwinDollicious adventure

Just when school was beginning and we were mentally preparing to settle down a bit for fall we decided to go on one more adventure!

We visited the beautiful Caribbean island of Honduras , then traveled along the Norwegian Getaway ‘s private island in Belize, Costa Maya Mexico and Cozumel for a week full of learning and adventure.

One of the best parts may have been he beautiful weather, beach days and resort wear.

Honduras is such a cultured country of food, wonderful people and growth. The old dirt road were being paved as we drive from one port to another. We visited the beautiful Garifuna village, ate fresh from the trees and ocean, and listened to nostalgic Spanish music. All while our little city kiddies blended without any transition necessary.

Visiting Roatan Animals

Belize tranquility

Serenade s in Costa Maya

La isla /ciudad Cozumel

There’s such a perfect blend of city and island life to Cozumel.

While visiting, they were beginning the festivities of their new year celebration. Shops were lining up for vending , carnival rides were being set up and the aroma of delicious authentic food filled the streets.

You can never forget about the ocean experience. Cruising has been one of our favorite things to do after having the Twins and we can now say that Bash has adjusted to this lifestyle very well. He is our little runner, with lots of energy, but while on the ship we never worried about finding ways to keep him busy. He visited the splash academy for the little guppies, while the girls Played with friends. He also took numerous trips to ice cream stations and enjoyed the water slides.

NYFW hair and fashion street style

NYFW is the highlight of fashion as we all know and LOVE!

In 2018 fashion has gone beyond clothing and is now embracing beauty And wellness as an overall fashion lifestyle. This new turn on fashion lifestyle has opened up many doors for creatives as well as fashion lifestyle lovers.

I used to find it hard to incorporate my work into the big world of fashion, because of the dedication to children and As a mom who considers my daily schedule before planning my style for the day…. I may fall off trend at times. However the excitement of not only having children’s fashion become a small part of fashion week but hair and beauty has taken center stage and I was super excited to attend the Texture on the runway event by Sally Beauty.

#naturallycurly was the movement of the night.

The runway was filled with creatively styled hair up dos, while talented models and ceo’s of hair brands like Cantu, Mane, carols daughter, Mielle, Shea moisture graced the stage to speak all of their goodness into the audience.

This change in the fashion week sparked so much excitement in everyone. It was awesome to interact with the brands, feel the products and learn more about the story behind them .

Another highlight and perfect combination to Fashion week is the event parties that follow. Media outlets are the reasons why we all strive in our businesses.

Which is why an Elle Magazine Fashion week party could not have been missed. They hosted the most elegant soirée to pamper the hard workers that put on these shows, and their guests. The glam squad was in attendance to make you shine, while a showcase of on trend looks were displayed for a first look and feel.

Sorel

I can now say that I’m especially looking forward to a new shoe release by Sorel. Now that Fashion week is done and fall is creeping in I should be prepping fall looks and style but I can’t seem to put our resort wear away just yet.

We will see you back on the blog when we return from the 🏖 beach!

(Visiting The beautiful 5 in the Caribbean … including Honduras)

Back to school preparation and style needs

Are you and your kiddos ready to begin the back to school hustle?

We’re holding on to the last bits of summer but are in no way in denial that school will begin very shortly.

There are so many school supply lists with must haves and trends that begin to surface in retailers starting July that we may get a bit confused. It’s always best to abide by the school supply lists (so that’s an easy task conquered) but how do we prepare and make back to school exciting.

I attended a few events in Mid summer to learn about new trends and products that may excite me and the girls for back to school.

– At the mom trends event I discovered this adorable lunch bag and pencil case that would be trendy for the girls… since Unicorns rule their universe right now.

Unicorns for them and Mabel’s Labels for me (kind of) . On my to do list from teachers and to create an easy morning for us Labels are a must on most of their books and supplies.

They loved the Unicorn style and ran with the theme! ✅

Speaking of labels: Epson ecotank printing has an amazing new device that makes it easier to print out your magnificently designed labels. This eliminates the hours of perfect handwriting, with less stress on whether or not you’re running low on ink – let’s just print it!

I couldn’t do a Back to school preparation list without including Vamousse. If you’re not familiar with this brand; you’re welcome for the introduction. Lice is a very scary thing. It’s overwhelming and includes lots of work. We were faced with a scare in Kindergarten. The letter comes home from school that there is a case of love in the class and then the show begins. Before learning about Vamousse, my immediate reaction was to take them to the doctors office.

I couldn’t imagine where I would start. So each year I’ve prepped with rosemary shampoo and peppermint oil, hairspray etc. – I mean have you seen the hair on them x’s 2…. no thank you!

The Vamousse brand not only contains shampoo, conditioner but household products if an outbreak was to occur. They are now our go to for back to school prepping.

Back to school style includes accessories, and necessities! Many teens,tweens or younger children whom parents work late have to use cellphones. It isn’t a must have but if your child does have a device chances are their friends and others will know that they have one. We thought that it would be a great safety feature to collaborate with a company and make finger slider phone holders that are flat and less visible when in their pockets or bags. (One less reason for bullying) Cell phone Finger holders

-The sturdy hold unlike the other distracting holders allows for your other fingers to type or grip the phone better, avoiding chances of falling to the ground.

To piggy back off of the cellphone subject and the many ways that families become busier during he school year; sportsmanship for girls is always a great idea. Now is the time to figure out what extracurricular activities are of interest to them. We love the message thatAthleta girl is spreading and believe whole heartedly that team work will keep the grades up!

Style style and more style!

When choosing a back pack for school durability is first on the list. Yet, once again unicorn🦄 lifestyle has to be in close proximity in order for the girls to get excited about packing those bags with books. We loved the Lands End personalized feature with monogramming and patches. The color Teal won and so did the 🌈 rainbow.

Though their school supply list only includes plain color folders… we couldn’t resist this collaboration with Avery and Amy Tangerine. These special folders were so exciting to them that they’ve decided to use them as their personal journal folders. They plan to carry their lunch books and clean sheets of paper with them to write during lunch… I mean don’t all third graders … ugh 3rd grade 😭

More than likely we will be TwinDollicious-ly twinning in style this year (Shopping haul video to come, you’ll have to watch to see) so thanks to Keds and Rifle Paper co for designing these amazing sneakers. Their new print designs include florals, decor and animals for adults to toddlers just in time for Back to school !

KEDS and RIfle Paper co 💕💕

Disclaimer: This blog post is of personal opinion and review, based on use of products sponsored by the brands.

Natasha’s Interview with Beyond Mom

TwinDollicious founder and Beyond Mom interview

I’ve always loved speaking to people and listening to their stories. I have recently found joy in sharing my story as well. It is always rewarding to help others, even if it’s by sharing your experience in life, mom-ing or business. I am always eager to share and work with others.

I hope you enjoy this interview. 🌸🌼🌸

“Where can you find the latest baby gear and toys”…you asked?

In other breaking news Toys r us and Babies r us are here no more… but when Sweet Suite and Baby Palooza NYC come to town your prayers are answered and there is hope again!

There is always so much anticipation as to what brands will be in attendance at the mornings event of Baby palooza NYC.  The amazing team pulls together great brands, new and old to create a space that showcases all of the goodness the brands have to offer.

This year I attended with Bash in tow (fast asleep) OMG! We worked the floor visiting our favorite brands, while getting to learn about new start up brands and products.

You may have read about Babobotanicals   here before.  However their new skin care, tinted line for moms is one to enjoy.  Where else can you enjoy an online shopping experience for you and your little baby at the same time? Find them at #babolove for awesome promos and product updates via facebook.

Next, B.Box the go to brand for feeding your babes from 6 mos…to 7 Years.  The new double servings container is perfect for kids on the go.  With summer camp well underway we couldn’t have asked for a better find when it comes to packing up snacks and lunch.

DEAR MOM , well what can I say? A four pack of a delectable wine beverage found at your local grocers and here for you to enjoy.

We’re always looking for something to include for mom 🙂 The 3rd mom treasure found at Baby palooza NYC was Armitron ..one watch many faces; it so hard to choose a favorite.

Lets talk about Thule; the company known for urban explorers and outdoor adventures. We love a great adventure and having our little Bash to tag along requires a durable vehicle for him.  With Thule’s luxury line of luggage, ride alongs, and now carriage system the little’s are sure to be anticipating just as much of the adventure as the older siblings and parents.

This fun fueled pack day did not end at baby Palooza!

Yes, there was more to discover in one day. Sweet Suite took place just hours later in a perfect location by the piers in NYC. The anticipation of Suite Sweet is based on the entry way and showcase displays of brands.

This year guests were greeted by a balloon maze watch here !

Upon entering the show floor, V & K were excited to see all of their favorite brands. Yes, the girls attended a toy insider event and were able to work and play!

Their top 5 favorites included

1. Roblox
2. Orbeez
3. Boxy girls
4. Nickelodeon

5. Cra Z art

However the showcase floor is so big, it can be hard to cover the entire event ins few hours, so the amazing team of toy insiders send along a swag box for some at home fun.

We found an extensive amount of amazing toys to share for all toy lovers…. starting with Plushee lovers

💕 Jigglydoos – which can now be found at Walmart!

2. Getting creative with these toys for Stem and science play

3. V & K’s kind of science mixed with beauty include tons of this…

💕 Shimmer and sparkle scented bath bombs

4. Kind bag Fun is all the craze and will continue with these fun new toys! Have you heard of the Party pop teenies ?!

5. Outdoor play products just in time for summer vacations. How about floating on a flamingo floatie… I mean that is seriously the life that any 7 year old would want to live ; isnt it?

Music and wonder for the imagination thanks to Microphone

For those moments when it’s time to unplug; turn to highlights activity books, crayons fun and mini game boards for siblings to learn and play together.

We won’t forget the smallest of the bunch. The little learners who enjoy light and sensory based stimulation to grow.

Cool off at these Summer Pop ups

How amazing is the craze of pop up shops?!

Doesn’t it seem like everyone is sharing their photos in these perfectly curated locations? Pop up shops are so popular right now and we are enjoying the amazing talents of designers who create the space as well as the brands they’re dedicated to.

Since summer is the most motivating season to get out and enjoy the weather we visited 2 pop ups that will only be in NYC for the summer.

One is the museum of ice cream’s Pint Shop.

There are walls covered in photo opportunities and skateboards to purchase ( amongst other things) . The girls and Bash couldn’t get enough of the boards; but unfortunately Mr B couldn’t ride so he wasn’t too happy.

However ice cream to the rescue!

Yes there are refrigerators with stacks of frozen one of a kind delectable ice creams for you to purchase. The 7 amazing flavors make it hard to chose but we were strategic and narrowed it down to 2 of our favorites.

Can you guess by this photo ? And the other was chocolate chunk (how can you resist) besides we had to make Bash happy too! “Choco-wit” is his favorite!

After choosing our ice cream, we took advantage of the photo opportunities and went with the Banana setting. Hey ,girls like to chat; even if its with a banana in the ear.

We then headed over to the new pier 17 waterfront location at the south street seaport NYC.

On opening weekend of this pop up music, family fun and food location The amazing artist Geronimo created an installation of colorful balloons along the deck. The ambiance was very close to Ibiza or European waterfront (as close as I’ll be again for the next 8-10years) with music, happy children and adults mingling together on a summer day and night.

– It was an inspiration of color, art, and love! Everyone danced, and enjoyed the opportunity to take photos sharing the new Pier 17 location.

🎼 We highly recommend these locations for an easy summer day in the city !

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