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!
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.
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.
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.
I can not tell you my level of excitement this year for trick or treating. Last year I wasn’t sure if the boys would ever have a “normal” Halloween, but as I’ve started making plans and looking for Halloween costumes – I’ve partnered up with Palm Beach Children’s Hospital to help make sure our night of trick or treating is safe and not scary.
Halloween Safety Tips from the Palm Beach Children’s Hospital
Choosing Your Costume
Make sure you can see. Masks and hoods can make it hard to see. Non-toxic face paints are a much better choice.
Wear something that reflects light. You can add reflective tape to your costume and treat bag so that drivers can see you. Carry a flashlight to light your way. You can even find one to match your costume!
Fun With Friends
Younger children should always have a responsible adult or older teenager with them while they trick or treat.
Take some friends along. A group of three or more is much safer than one.
Plan Ahead
Plan your route and decide with your parents what time you should be home.
Only visit the houses of people you know and where an outside light is on. If the light is off, they are probably away from home or not giving out candy.
Don’t go inside a house to accept candy.
Safety First
Don’t stand too close to a lighted candle – especially in a jack o’lantern. Your costume might catch fire.
Whether walking, using your super powers or flying a broom, watch out for traffic. Stay on the sidewalks. Cross only at intersections. Don’t cross or hide between parked cars. Look both ways before crossing the street.
Don’t cut across yards.
Have one of your parents or a responsible adult check your candy before eating it. Throw any open packages or homemade treats away. If you have younger brothers, sisters, cousins or friends, don’t give them small or hard candies that can choke them.
Tips for Parents
Children often want to help carve the pumpkin, but little fingers and sharp objects don’t mix. Let your children draw the face on the pumpkin while you handle the carving. Your children may enjoy cleaning out the pumpkin and saving the seeds to bake for a snack.
Make sure your children understand the rules of Halloween safety. Develop a game plan and agree on the rules ahead of time. If older children are going out without an adult, make sure they understand the difference between vandalism and tricks.
When shopping for costumes, check to make certain the material is flame retardant and that your child’s vision won’t be obscured by any part of the costume. Make sure the costume isn’t too long to prevent tripping. If your child is wearing a hat, check to see that it won’t slip down over the eyes.
If your child is carrying props like a sword, knife or scythe, check to see that the tips are smooth and flexible enough to not cause injury.
You may want to find an alternative to door-to-door trick or treating such as going to a mall or community event. You also may want to host a special Halloween party for your children and their friends.
Make your home safe for those little treaters. There are special lights that mimic a candle for jack o’lanterns. If you do use a candle, keep the pumpkin on a sturdy surface away from where the children are likely to stand. Don’t leave a burning candle unattended.
Teach your children that Halloween is about fun. Throwing eggs at a house or car or even toilet-papering trees can be considered acts of vandalism.
In case of an emergency, the Palm Beach Children’s Hospital is here for all of your child’s emergent needs. When an emergency occurs you want the best treatment possible for your child as fast as you can get it. Palm Beach Children’s Hospital can provide your family access to some of the best emergency care treatment around, designed specifically for the needs of children.
In fact, their pediatric emergency room has been voted as Best Pediatric ER in Palm Beach County by readers of South Florida Parenting Magazine for three years.Â
We never slow down at the parks. It’s always quick service and back to the next ride… but honestly I look at the sit down options and always regret not making reservations.
Sci-Fi Drive in Theater in Hollywood Studios, Disney World
Since the Disney World properties have reopened, I’ve noticed Hollywood Studios seems to be busier than the other parks but wanted to at least take an afternoon to pop in and try out the new Mickey’s Runaway Railroad… I mean honestly it’s not new anymore, but we had not ridden it. I also wanted to try to get on Rise of the Resistance and visit Toy Story Land again. Here is what I have learned about Toy Story Land, check out my previous post here in case you missed it.
Sci-Fi Drive in Theater in Hollywood Studios, Disney World
I was able to make a reservation on the My Disney Experience App for Saturday afternoon and planned to have a late lunch, then explore the park for the last few hours before closing.
Sci-Fi Drive in Theater in Hollywood Studios, Disney World
When you arrive they have parties wait outside until your table is ready. There is someone who will escort your party into the drive in area. There is one door in and one door out. I’m not sure if that is an after COVID change, or if it has always been that way.
Sci-Fi Drive in Theater in Hollywood Studios, Disney World
Each table is set up inside 50’s inspired cars. There are different options but we didn’t get to choose which type of car we had. Some have tables on the inside, like a standard table everyone sits around. Others, like the one we had, are almost like counter booths, where you sit behind other people in your party.
Sci-Fi Drive in Theater in Hollywood Studios, Disney World
I think the kids liked this style better because it was new and felt a little more fun and special.
Sci-Fi Drive in Theater in Hollywood Studios, Disney World
While you are at your table there are sci-fi shows and movie clips from the 50’s playing. All family friendly of course…but I wasn’t expecting my 4 year old to be a little scared of the martians and UFO’s – think Twilight Zone – in black and white with strings attached. There were also some fun Tom and Jerry mixed in with it.
Sci-Fi Drive in Theater in Hollywood Studios, Disney World
Something I wasn’t expecting was the sense of relaxation. As we sat there eating lunch and soaking everything in… the hustle and bustle of Disney and the parks was completely gone. There wasn’t a line, wasn’t a reason to try to rush away somewhere. It was quite peaceful.
Sci-Fi Drive in Theater in Hollywood Studios, Disney World
Now, it’s not somewhere that I would say we have to go every time.. much like other Disney sit down dinning options it becomes a little pricy, but if it’s something you haven’t tried or are looking for a nice break in the middle of your day… I think this is a solid choice, especially if you have kids.
Sci-Fi Drive in Theater in Hollywood Studios, Disney World
This mama is tired. I’ve gotten tired of saying I’m tired. I feel like that’s an everyday thing. Anyone else?
I’m not sure if this is what motherhood and adulthood feel like, but I’m fairly sure I wasn’t helping myself out either. I’m edging closer to 40 everyday (I honestly can’t believe that’s a thing) and things weren’t going to magically change on their own. If I didn’t start making small changes, I wasn’t going to be as productive as I needed to be. For some unknown reason, it’s frowned on to have naps during work hours. 🙂
Get Rid Of Things – Just Do It
Cleaning out clutter is a fast way to focus on what you have and what you no longer need.
I started watching way to many minimalism YouTube videos over holiday break, and while I will never be what someone would call a minimalist, several things resonated with me.
Think of your items as inventory. Do you know what you have? Do you know where it is? Is it serving a purpose? Most of my answers were no.
“Maybe I have that thing I used to have. Maybe I don’t. I have no idea where it is. It’s easier to just go buy a new one. “
It should take as much energy to put something away as it does to leave it out. *Looking around at piles of clothes I didn’t have the energy to fight with other clothes to put away.
I started peeling away at the onion. Not getting rid of everything at once, but going through each room once. Removing things that are just there with absolutely no purpose. Then when I was ready, peeling back the second onion layer and so on.
It’s not something that has to be done at one time. It really is a process. I have discovered a few things during this process.
I don’t miss anything I have gotten rid of.
I can actually find things I am looking for.
I don’t have to spend as much time and energy completing tasks around the house.
Take Care of You (and your skin)
Tru Skin Serum
Masks are here. I don’t know how long that will be but my face isn’t taking it well. I’ve noticed the older I get, the more sensitive my skin has become. Years of living in Florida haven’t been kind… but I haven’t done the best I can taking care of it either.
I’ve been looking for products for myself that help improve my skin, masks or not and can’t rave enough about Tru Skin Vitamin C Serum. I’ve incorporated it into my weekly skin routine and have already noticed a difference. I honestly believe when you take better care of yourself, you feel better to face the day.
Tru Skin Vitamin C targets dark spots, fine lines, and overall tone of your skin while protecting and feeding it. It’s made without fillers and silicones but has a high concentration of organic aloe that calms and soothe. Use code MOM10 to save 10% on and TruSkin product on their website. Keep an eye out over the next few months they will have new branding, but the formulations won’t change.
Whatever area you are looking to improve, take those small baby steps. A year from now you will be happy you started when you did.
Set Small Goals
Handlettering Practice Books
I’ve been wanting to learn something new for years. Hand lettering. It looks so relaxing and creative. I never made it a priority. I never took those steps to actually learn it. It was something I just always said I wanted to learn how to do someday. Why did I keep waiting? It wasn’t like it was going to magically happen.
What was the first thing I needed to do to get started? Get a practice book? That’s easy enough.
Ordered it. Once step closer. Then what was my next step? Open the first page and start.
I waited almost 5 years for this? WHY???
I made a small step toward something bigger, and it felt great. Now I make a date with myself to sit down and practice. To work on something for ME. Not for my kids, not for my husband, not for my friends. For ME. It’s hard to set that time aside, but since I’ve taken so many other small steps…I can take another small step and just sit down to put in the work.
Drink More Water
Annoying right? You hear everyone say it but it’s true.
I felt terrible yesterday. I was tired, I was cranky and all I wanted to do was letdown and watch a rom-com on Netflix. But something I’ve been paying attention to is why I’m feeling specific ways. As I went through the list of why I was feeling that way – I realized I had no water all day. I had plenty of coffee, but no water.
I made myself get up and get a big glass of ice water and within 20 minutes my mood had changed. I felt better. During the work wee it is easy for me to grab a water as I’m walking out the door for work but difficult for me to remember to drink it when I’m at home. Incorporating it into my routine has made such a difference during the day.
Plan ALL. THE. THINGS.
Vision Board to help set goals.
Something else I have learned about myself. If I don’t have a list to follow, or an end goal in mind I do absolutely nothing to move forward.
I will sit and look around like I have absolutely no idea where to start. Wasting time.
But if I know what I need to do, I can make a list of actionable steps and start working toward that. My kids and I sat down and made a vision board for the year. (Click here to read more about that) Once that was in place I could look at the things I wanted to get done and start incorporating those things into our week. Into my monthly planning. When I see what goals we are working toward and how we are getting closer to them, it gets me more energized to do more to make them happen.
They have become more of a priority instead of something I randomly think about while running errands. It’s funny that even some of the ones that I’m not currently planning seem to be coming together for us. I love the power of positive thinking and have seen a hugh difference in my pattern of thought when I focus on the positive.
No matter what season you are in in life… making these five small changes can dramatically increase your energy level and keep you motivated on those days that you might not feel as much energy as you would like. Small steps toward big goals.
We got this.
Disclaimer: I received TruSkin Vitamin C from Moms Meet to use and post my honest opinions. Compensation forthis post was provided and this page may contain affiliate links.
As a mom, the closer the time came for Halloween, the more worried I was about taking trick or treating away from my kids. I wasn’t sure what it was going to look like. What houses we would go to, or if anyone would even have their lights on. Anyone else know the feeling?
The holidays aren’t quite over in my house. Although I love celebrating the New Year, I love to squeeze every ounce of Christmas before I can. Great think ICE at Gaylord Palms runs until Jan. 5th.
There are so many different activities and experiences that are available at Gaylord Palms. Even simply walking around and experiencing the lights is an amazing memory. I know from experience. My dad would take me to Gaylord Opryland every year I spend Christmas with him and it is something I still smile about.
If you are looking for an easy hostess gift or even a teacher gift, this is the perfect thing this year. The more you do the cheaper each one actually gets. You will only need a few supplies…all you can get a dollar store and craft store. I’ve made 16 so far and they came out to around $2.50 each…but I have plenty of glitter and glue for future mugs.
$1 mugs – you can probably get them cheaper if you shop around clearance sections or possibly thrift stores if it doesn’t matter if they match.
Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge – I got mine at Michaels for around $5 after the coupon.
Super fine glitter (various colors) – again I got these at Michaels. A little goes a long way. $3 for one container.
Iron on glitter vinyl – $16 – the most expensive part. If you have time order…
If you are looking for an easy hostess gift or even a teacher gift, this is the perfect thing this year. The more you do the cheaper each one actually gets. You will only need a few supplies…all you can get a dollar store and craft store. I’ve made 16 so far and they came out to around $2.50 each…but I have plenty of glitter and glue for future mugs.
This Florida Mom 