Author: MARIANNA

I think it's important to experience as much out of life as you can. I am the mom to two wonderful little boys and I try to teach them to enjoy and celebrate as much as possible. I'm a little quirky and that's OK. I'm a crafter, baker, reader, social media-er. I also love inappropriate and uncomfortable moments.

Creative Easter Basket Ideas — Last Minute Easter Gift Guide

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Each spring I look forward to pastels and fun new paints. Finding new and creative ways to keep the kids busy but also make sure I’m not filling the house with things that will just get tossed with the Christmas clean out.

We use the same baskets each year find a few bulkier items to fill them, and stuff the surrounding areas with smaller candies.

If you are looking for a few fun items to incorporate into your kids Easter baskets this year, or possibly to family friends at brunch, here are a few fun and smile worthy selections.

I never got into the Squishmellows — but then I saw some of the holiday and Disney themed ones and thought they were basket worthy. This classic Steamboat Willy is perfect for any age.

My boys have gotten out of the age of blocks, but I would have grabbed these in a heartbeat for them. Endless hours of open play and creativity. I love that they are not symmetrically shaped and see so many creative possibilities.

I thought these sand bags were great and practical. Take them on vacation or just a day in the sand. I could see myself using one of these too. Fill them with sand toys or new sunscreens and sunglasses for the season.

I wasn’t sure how these would work, but the boys were gifted a set of these last summer and they really do save so much time, plus we don’t have to clean up all of the broken balloon pieces in the yard. They are magnetic water balloons. They open on impact and then close back again when they are refilled with water. There is a bit of a learning curve but your kids will easily learn how to use them after a few tries.

I love supporting local and small when ever I can and my youngest son is OBSESSED with honey. I am too… Anytime he gets a chance to try and new honey he is first in line. Consider swapping out some of the traditional candy choices for honey this year and see what your kids think. If you haven’t tried Palm Beach Creamed Honey, this is the perfect opportunity. They have quite a few flavors to choose from, like this Raspberry one.

Not too sure what your kids will think? Honey straws are an easy way to introduce them to different flavors.

I have more Easter ideas in my Amazon Storefront and update it throughout the season with more creative finds.

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Pretty Woman the Musical – Perfect Date Night Out

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Looking for a fun date night or girls night out? This is it. 

I had reservations going in wondering how the stage show would compare to the movie. I mean, who hasn’t seen Pretty Woman at least 100 times? How could someone take the “feeling” of a classic and bring it to life? They did it though. 

I didn’t realize until watching the show how much of the movie I knew and was excited to see. Watching the connection between Vivian and Edward on stage, it felt very much like the connection on screen. The difference is that most of the storyline is put to song, so even if you haven’t seen the movie it is still an entertaining show. I found myself smiling and tapping my feet through the entire show.

Of course when I go to the Kravis Center, I make sure to check out their drink specialties. They always have drinks that tie in with the show, and now that beverages are allowed in the theater I love knowing I can enjoy them throughout the show.

I vaguely remember watching the movie when I was younger, but I do not recommend this for kids under 13. There is something different about watching the ummm romantic scenes in a movie, than how it is implied on stage. If you don’t want to review what Vivian’s profession is with your kids before the show, I say take a girlfriend and make it an adult night. 

The first act is 67 minutes with act two running 58 minutes. 

Pretty Woman the Musical runs until March 12th in West Palm Beach at the Kravis Center. Find out more about the show and grab your tickets here. 

So Lucky to Have You (Free Printable)- Fun for kids to make – St. Patrick’s Day

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Raise your hand if you love St. Patrick’s Day? I don’t think it gets enough love in the kid community. Sure, adults have plenty to celebrate with wearing green and heading downtown, where ever you might live.

Continue reading “So Lucky to Have You (Free Printable)- Fun for kids to make – St. Patrick’s Day” →

Aladdin on Broadway — Now in South Florida

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Aladdin has made its way to South Florida and is open at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach until December 23rd. Theatre lover or not, this show has something for everyone… even the youngest theatre goer.

The Kravis Center website recommends the show for ages 6 and up.

What Can I Expect?

The most amazing lighting and costuming of any show. Now I’m not expert, but the entire show was top to bottom amazing. The high school theatre nerd in me kept wondering how they were able to fill the space to make it feel magical. It’s hard to explain how the scenery, backdrops and lighting can completely change the feel of a show and make adults and kids alike feel wonder.

The storyline follows the animated movie pretty closely with a few minor character additions, it does not change the story at all, but allows for more diversity on stage. There were also additional songs that were added, that I was told were cut from the movie version… don’t quote me on that though. You can’t believe everything you read on the internet (wink, wink).

Should I Take My Kids?

Of course! I am a huge believer in taking your kids to the theatre and this is a wonderful show to start with. Keep in mind the time the show starts. If it is an 8pm showing… consider if your kids will be able to sit still at that time of night without falling asleep. A matinee might be the way to go with younger kids.

Something I had not considered because my son is older is that some kids might not be able to see over adults in front of them. Michelle, from Modern Boca Mom, had the brilliant idea of bringing in her daughter’s booster seat from the car so she had a better view and didn’t struggle to see the action taking place.

Please note, if you have a child with sound sensitivities there are quite a few loud bangs and crashes. A few even made me jump. This is something that might startle younger ones if they are not expecting it, but with ear plugs or fair warning it might not be a problem.

Is it all – age appropriate?

If you are OK with everything that happens in the Disney animated movie, then everything will be fine. There are sword fighting scenes, but more to help with the setting and conflict. Nothing gory or scary.

My overall review is that this is a great show for date night or a family day out. It is a feel good story of an underdog that wins in the end. If you are looking for something to do while your family is in town for the holidays or a gift experience, add this to your gift list for sure!

On Your Feet – The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan

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ON YOUR FEET! is the inspiring true story about heart, heritage and two people who believed in their talent—and each other—to become an international sensation: Gloria and Emilio Estefan.

On Your Feet! opened in 2015, at Broadway’s Marquis Theatre and closed in 2017. It is now reopen and crossing the country with a 70 city nationwide tour. I was lucky to be invited to The Kravis Center, in West Palm Beach, to see opening night.

Gaby Albo and Samuel Garnica will star as Grammy winners Gloria and Emilio Estefan in the new, non-Equity national tour of On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio & Gloria Estefan, launching November 15 at West Palm Beach’s Kravis Center for the Performing Arts before visiting 70 cities nationwide. – Playbill.com

Whether you are a fan of Gloria or just a fan of the theatre, you will enjoy the upbeat and familiar songs. A score that includes such hits as “Rhythm is Gonna Get You,” “Conga,” “Get On Your Feet,” “Don’t Want To Lose You Now,” “1-2-3,” and “Coming Out of the Dark.”

Should I take my kids to On Your Feet!?

As I was watching, I wished I would have brought my oldest son (who is currently 10). It is a perfect theatre experience for younger audiences. The music and lights keep the show upbeat, even during some of the more somber moments. There were other kids in the audience bopping along to the music. I would say anyone 8 and up would be an appropriate age, just be mindful of the length of the show.

There were no moments during the performance that I thought wouldn’t be suitable, so if you are looking for a show to introduce your kids to, or involve them in a theatre night out…this is a good one. There are even moments where the actors are dancing in the aisles… that’s a fun moment no matter how old you are.

If you are considering taking your kids, start listening to some of the songs before hand, that way they are familiar with the songs on stage.

If you aren’t able to make any of the shows in West Palm, the tour finds its way back to Florida in March with quite a few stops.

If you are local to South Florida and looking for other shows that are stoping in, make sure to checkout The Kravis Center lineup for updates.

Out of the Box Advent Collections

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Once the “official” officials start of holiday season begins, I usually am so crazy with plans and activities that finding a cool new advent calendar slips my mind, we forget to do a few days here and there and at the end of December I feel guilty for not adventing the right way. Does that even make sense?

Since there aren’t official rules, I figured I would start my first advent calendars with the kids in November. Still counting down toward Christmas, but before all of the other things start happening. We did our first doors last night, with nothing else going on. I feel less overwhelmed and more sure that we might just be able to get through these calendars the right way.

If you are looking for some fun and different advent collections to surprise your kids, or to do with the whole family – here are a few that I thought would be fun to try out.

If you’re a traditionalist – this chocolate one is the way to go. There are a variety to choose from, but I would of course choose the classic Mickey feel.

I tend to gravitate toward what my kids are currently excited about. In previous years we have done Hot Wheels, Legos, PlayMobile, Grinch and Elf. Think about what your kids will be excited about and start your search there.

Hot Wheels Advent

How the Grinch Stole Christmas Advent

I also like to look for advent calendars that have toys I can incorporate into decorations in future years, or that the boys can play with. That way I don’t feel like I am “wasting” money. I know that it is about the excitement and experience, but I also want it to add on to our collection.

Polly Pocket Advent

Jurassic World Advent

As you think about an advent calendar to add to your holiday festivities this year, don’t get stressed. This is something to be fun… not another chore to add to your day. I love how excited my kids get to open each door, and I know it’s a tradition they will enjoy for years… so I absolutely love it.

It’s not just about them though… grab one for you too.

Take a look at other advent calendars that you might like here.

A Christmas Story Advent

The Office Advent

Howl -O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando

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I don’t like being scared. It makes me angry. My blood pumps and my heart races. I figure it comes down to control. I can’t control what I’m feeling or what comes next.

Actively walking into scary situations is confusing to me. You want to be scared, you don’t want to be scared. What is it?

Howl-O-Scream 2022, Sea World Orlando

We were invited to Sea World for Howl-O- Scream, and I am not one to say no to new adventures. Although I may have second guessed it…

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Make time for YOUR Mammogram

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I turned 40 this year. Let me say, I celebrated turning 40. There is a peace that came with it, that is hard to explain. An overwhelming feeling that I was finally in charge of life. What I was doing, where I was going, how to advocate for myself. It was all there. 

I have been aware for a while now that I am at high risk for breast cancer. It runs on both sides of my family and that’s not something that will ever change. I am aware of it, I acknowledge it and as I get older I have to be responsible for checking for it. It’s that little voice in the back of my head. I might be healthy today, but what about tomorrow? I check for myself often…but more importantly, I check for my boys. 

I was able to visit the Norma E. & Miles M. Zisson Comprehensive Breast Center of the Palm Beaches at Good Samaritan Medical Center and sat down with center manager Colleen Campbell. 

The first thing I noticed about Colleen is how friendly and warm she was, and how proud she was to show me and talk about her facility. My previous experience at imaging centers was to feel like a number. In and out as fast as they could… I was immediately struck that this center was different. It was not simply about imaging. It was about the patient as a whole person. 

Of course as women, we hear every year at our OB/GYN appointment that we should be checking ourselves for lumps and bumps…but what does that really mean? Younger me wanted to get that part of the exam over as fast as possible, but now as I’m older I have questions that I know I need to listen to the answers. I was able to ask Colleen some of those questions, that maybe you’ve been wondering too. 

1) At what age is it recommended that a woman gets a mammogram? Who should they ask to get one?      

Without a family history of breast cancer all women should start with a routine screening Mammogram at the age of 40, with a family history at the age of 35.

2) What should someone expect during their first mammogram? 

 With experienced team members a mammogram should be uncomfortable in the sense that it is considered an intimate exam, like going to the OB/GYN the first time.  If the right person is explaining and performing the procedure during the exam it helps. There is  some pressure but it should not be a painful experience at all. As a matter of fact I’ve been doing this so long that I have a lot of GYN’s that referrer their baseline mammogram patients to me personally for this very reason. It really helps to let the technologist know that this is your first mammogram.

3) If a woman doesn’t have insurance, what should they do to decrease the cost of a mammogram? 

 If you do not have insurance most facilities have cash pay prices that are very competitive, especially around Mother’s Day and October. Again, stay close to the Hospital based programs, (outpatient facilities that are associated w/ Hospitals. They offer more qualified and experienced staff. With insurance Annual Routine Mammograms are covered 100%, W/O insurance w/ offer competitive cash pay pricing. At our outpatient facilities the reading fee(radiologist) is also included.

4) If a lump is found, what is the first thing someone should do? 

Mark the area with a marker and call your doctor to make an appointment. You will need to know the date of your last period and approximately how long the lump has been there.

5) How is your facility different from others in the area? 

I would like to say our facility sets us apart because we are passionate about what we do and who we do it for. We all have a story. I chose my team based on their experience and passion and compassion. In the Breast Cancer world it’s not about the job we do, it’s about the people we do it for, our families, our community, our facility. 
I want my staff to feel satisfied every day that we do what’s right! To lay our heads down on the pillow every night and feel like you made a difference, even if it’s one person that’s all it takes. That’s why we chose the medical field, I believe it’s a path. My staff wants to work with me on my mission to help these women and their families.