Discover the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secret of the Sewers Exhibit at Liberty Science Center #TMNTLSC

The infamous hero's in a half shell - Raphael, Michelangelo, Leonardo and Donatello are causing a bit of Turtlemania with the new exhibit Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secret of the Sewers exhibit at the Liberty Science Center in New Jersey which made it's East Coast debut just in time for turtle loving fans to explore while on summer break. It was without question that when we were asked to attend a press preview of the new exhibit by Momtrends and Liberty Science Center that we were excited for all of the fun they had in store for us that included channeling our inner ninja, a private meet and greet with the four brothers and of course a pizza party! 

Lil' Monsters In NYC: Exploring The Discovery Room & Terrace Water Feature at The American Museum of Natural History #LilMonstersinNYC

 There was quite a crisp breeze in the air this morning and I can't help but wish that it was still Summer, is that crazy? Don't get me wrong Fall is actually my favorite season, I just think this year the warm summer days were far and in between this year and geezums, we never even made it to the beach! As we start grabbing more layers to wear and it starts getting chillier, I though over this next week I'd share some of our family excursions I never got to share.

The hubby and I have lived in NYC all of our lives and although there are quite a few attractions we haven't seen, we are pretty familiar with many of the local family friendly sites that are either inexpensive or free and make our best efforts to check as many out as possible with the boys. We have taken our kids to the amazing American Museum of Natural History a handful of times before, spending hours sitting under the ginormous blue whale (as Tristan reminds us that whales can't fly and questions how that really big whale got up to the ceiling), snapping pics of dinosaurs and pretending we were in the Ben Stiller family film, Night at the Museum.Yet somehow we  never knew of their really cool Discovery Room or the awesome sprinklers, seemingly hidden from tourists on their quaint rooftop terrace.

Imagine my boy's faces, full of amazement as they first walked into the AMNH Discovery Room to find this larger than life replica of a two story African baobab tree towering over them. Before they could even get instructions from the AMNH employee they ran up to the table, beyond excited and each went reaching for a magnifying glass, flashlight and a checklist/ activity sheet. They couldn't wait to start searching high and low for all the animals pictured on their list.

A game of memory kept Tristan preoccupied for quite a bit of time as he eagerly uncovered shells that were varied in texture and size. When I prompted him to put a shell to his ear to listen, he thought it sounded more like a ghost, than the ocean.

There were drawers with lots of hidden treasures that visitors were able to hold, which is really great sensory fun for the little ones and made for great conversation with CJ on where he thought he could find an object.

Now, one of the many reasons I love my two monsters is because more times than not, they are very open-minded to going to new places, doing new things (once you convince them to leave the house and the video games behind), meeting new people, or in this case BUGS! Without hesitation, when another employee asked CJ if he wanted to hold a Madagascar hissing cockroach he jumped at the chance. 

Kids can tap into their creative side by creating masks out of felt and if you squint one eye and tilt your head, you can sort of see how much it resembles his daddy, that Tristan was so proud to make. He nailed the bald head, don't you think?

On display you'll find gorgeously detailed masks from different countries around the world. Kids can even try some on, or take a moment to draw a few of their own in a quiet area.

I'm also really one lucky mama, because Tristan is a pretty well behaved kid and he received so many compliments from the staff and later earned himself two stickers because he cleaned up and sorted all the play food that was lying around.

Meanwhile because CJ is a few years older he and the hubby were able to venture upstairs to explore, and this time he was able to interact with a walking stick, which tickled him as he slowly made his way up CJ's arm. I wish that as a child, I had been more open to exploring all those things I thought were icky, but by having two adventurous boys I get a second chance.

There's just so much to be taken in and for little mind to absorb and you could see the kids throughout the space were in complete awe of the beautiful artifacts of old and new.

Another pretty cool feature in the American Museum of Natural History's Discovery room is that visitors can work together to piece together the fossils of a prehistoric crocodile and excavate, using tools that paleontologists use.

It was while reading my favorite blog , A Cup of Jo that I discovered this seemingly magical hideaway on the Upper Westside, that you could tell only those who actually lived in the neighborhood and a handful of others were aware even existed. The monsters absolutely loved splashing around in the sprinklers and making each other crack-up over things that only their crazy selves would understand. Only in New York can you splash around among the planets. It was just an amazingly fun-filled days I know made such an impression on the boys.

The Discovery Room is an exciting way for families and especially kids aged 5-12 by helping them with a behind the scenes and hands on, close-up look at science. You can go in for a timed 40 minute session for Free on Monday - Thursday from 10:30am to 1:30pm

            Friday's they are closed 

            Saturday & Sunday from 1030am - 1:30pm, 2:15pm-5:10pm

Oh Snaps! A Peek at our last Summer Moments on Instagram

All though I'm back in the classroom, I've flipped through the pages of all the Fall fashion issues of my favorite magazines, and there's a cool enough breeze at night to leave the windows open, I'm still in denial that in just 5 days Summer will be officially over. In my Facebook feed yesterday there was a post from ABC Family, that mentioned the 100 day countdown till Christmas, which sparked a conversation about presents, and the need to buy the boys new winter boots which instantly had me anxious. I'm so not ready! Personally I'd love to just linger in the memories of our simply relaxing summer & thought I'd let you indulge a little longer by sharing some of our August stay-cation moments.

 Oh Summer you will be missed!

• I was so jealous of those that got to Foley sq. early enough for Zip-lining during Summer Streets.
• CJ loved this larger than life sun-catcher and the other pieces of public art at City Hall Park.
• Even Space Rangers have to take a potty break.
• Gantry State Park for some Shakespeare in the park.
• My new fave pic of the Hubby and I courtesy of our 8 year old. Say "Cheesedoodles"
• Sunset, slides and swings with great views of the skyline.
• My fave brunch at Essex: potato cakes, apple cream sauce w/ spinach, mushrooms and black beans.
• Roof top loungin' at home with the boys.
• Burgers anyone? Like father like sons, they aspire to be great cooks someday!

• My swag of beauty goodies from winning the Rank and Style Instagram contest.
• Riding the waves on the NYC water taxi to the Red Hook Ikea.
• Tristan sang his abc's as he refused to come from under this alphabet bedding.
• El Anatsui's installation Gravity and Grace was amazing to view up close.
• My girl Tacha is such a cheeseball posing with Annunciation at the Brooklyn Museum.
• We were starved and not disappointed when we popped into the  Sunshine Co. for brunch.
• Who doesn't love a lil bit of colorful Bklyn. street art?
• Baby SIR-MIX- A-LOT, future Dj in the making.
• Goodnight moon and other childhood stories old an new at the NY Public Library.

• Some would rather forget about their H.S days but the Brooklyn Tech class of 2000 meets annually.
• Stumbled upon some awesome Jazz in Central Park.
• Got up to use the bathroom and these guys took over my spot in the bed thanks to the 2 yr.old.
• Rose Gardens, composting and dragonflies, all enjoyed on our trip to the Bklyn. Botanical Gardens.
• Kicked off our anniversary weekend with Good Morning America, Alicia Key and Maxwell.
• Lunch at the South Street Seaport
• My outfit all planned out for date night, which included these killer wedges from JustFab!

• Taking in the city skyline at Gantry State park after dinner with the hubby.
• You'll probably never catch me in shoes this high ever again, so the photo is a keepsake.
• I'm so spoiled, I never want to go out to eat because I know my hubby can throw down.
• Hey there Lady liberty! Views from our ride on the Shark speedboat.
• A little arm candy and a glimpse at my metallic sandals.
• Caught the James Turrell installation at the Guggenheim.
• Impromptu trip to the Hamptons with the bestie and our beaus.
• "F LOVES F" the sweetest engagement party ever for the founder of My Bridal Budget.
• Living in the moment, enjoying Labor Day and loving my family.

Weekend Happenings // Things To do in NYC July 19th - July 21st

How have you all been faring with this heat & humidity? We've been hiding out at home the last few days and can't wait to get back outdoors, there's only so many board games and activity books that can keep a kid busy. Sunday seems to be the best day for a little relief with temps below 90, which is perfect for us seeing as we'll be in Juniper park for a kiddie birthday party {the grownups always seem to have a better time than the kids} that we look forward to every year. I can't believe that July is almost over which signifies that the end of Summer break is near and back to school shopping is lurking around the corner. Don't fear though, there are quite a few things going on in the city this weekend. Check out some of these fun-filled events in the city with your family and friends:

 $3 per ride // Fete Paradiso // Every weekend - Sept 29th // 10:30am-6:30pm 
Where: Governors Island
Take a whimsical journey through time and check out this traveling festival's collection of vintage french rides and 2 -of-a- kind bicycle carousels. It's their first time here in the U.S. & along with these rare, museum quality rides there will be nostalgic games, a beer garden and french carnival food. For Everyone
For More Info: Feteparadiso.com


FREE// Hudson River Park River Flicks for Kids // Fri. July 19th // 8:30pm 
Where: Hudson River Park, Pier 46 btwn. Charles Street and West street.
Tonight enjoy a viewing of ParaNorman Rated PG  [Norman is a boy who has the ability to speak to the dead and must protect his town from zombies, ghosts and an ancient curse]. For Everyone
For More Info: Riverflicks.com


FREE// Urban Lawn Party // Sat. July 20th // 11am-5pm
Where: Charlton Street between 6th and Varick
This event sounds like the ULTIMATE way to hang out with your favorite people! Indulge in yoga and express manicures brought to you by Exhale spa, reflexology, henna tattoos and cardio-boxing. Watch performances from TheaterWorks USA and other artists & tons of  fun for the kids: a bouncy house, arts and crafts, balloon animals and more! There's even a doggie boutique and pool for the family pet to keep cool. Enjoy lounging and snacking on cupcakes,  snowballs and other tasty treats and check out the charity book & food drives and clothes swaps. Make sure to take pics in the photobooth to remember the day. For Everyone
For more Info: Urbanlawnparty.com


FREE // New Museum Block Party // Sat. July 20th // 12pm- 5pm 
Where: Sara D. Roosevelt Park between Delancey and Broome Street.
Join the New Museum for their annual Block Party& spend the afternoon participating in interactive projects and performances inspired by current exhibitions and museum programs. All Block Party guests will receive complimentary admission to the New museum and can participate in FREE interactive, family-friendly tours. For Everyone
For More Info: Newmuseum.org


FREE // City of Water Day // Sat. July 20th // 10am -4pm    
Where: Governors Island & Liberty State park, NJ
Make you way over to the waterfront for the 6th annual City of Water Day Festival. Celebrate the potential of our waterfront with FREE narrated boat tours, FREE ferry rides between Governors Island and Liberty State park,  try out kayaking, fishing and other water activities . Explore interactive tables and demonstrations, arts and crafts, a sea creature touch tank, live entertainment, games, giveaways, food and more! For Everyone
For More Info: Cityofwaterday.org


FREE// SummerStage Kids Queens Family Day // Sun. July 21st // 4pm -7pm
Where: Queensbridge Park
SummerStage Kids presented by Disney will a host Queens family day, which aims to provide engaging entertainment for families. This years event will get families on their feet with a special celebration of the music icon and king of pop, Michael Jackson. Enjoy performances from a 10 piece brass band PitchBlak, Dj'd music, a dance party and a few surprises. Disney VoluntEARS will greet attendees with fun "Magic of Healthy living games" [jump roping, basketball, hula-hoops] and give away fun prizes. Note: We attended this event 2 weeks ago at Central park and the giveaways included Blue-ray and digital copy Disney movies, puzzles, figurines and more! For Everyone
For More Info: cityparksfoundation.org 



I hope you all Live in the Moment, hit the streets & enjoy the weekend! Feel free to follow me on Instagram @Dellahsjubilation to see wha fun the hubby, monsters and I get into.
Bunches of Xoxo's
                            Dellah

*images via sites mentioned above.

Lil' Monsters in NYC: Check out The Eat, Sleep Play Exhibit at CMOM

 If I told you that there were a place to take your kids in hopes of convincing them that fruits & veggies, rest, an occasional gassy noise and exercise were necessary for a healthy life; that is located at an interactive, engaging,  fun- filled exhibit at CMOM  (Children's Museum of Manhattan) would you believe me?

 I have never been to anything like the  Eat, Sleep, Play exhibit that is a part of a national health initiative and praised by first lady Michelle Obama. CJ and I went this past weekend and he honestly didn't want to leave because he had so much fun. Isn't it every parents dream to hear their child utter the words "Mommy/daddy I really like this place, it's really interesting. It's making me kinda like learning about science stuff", as CJ had excitedly told me. The exhibit has over 70 interactive stations which encourage healthy alternatives,by making kids think while not making them feel bad about an occasional sweet treat, or game of Super Mario bros. Neither you or your child (geared at ages 2-10) will leave disappointed so make plans to visit ASAP! I decided to kill two birds with one stone and use this excursion for my Teaching Elementary Science graduate studies assignment. CJ and I hope you enjoy the pics! He now considers our outings "top secret missions" because he knows I'm going to share these posts with everyone, he even got in on the picture taking.

"EAT"

Crawl through the mouth to get inside the Decision Center * THE BRAIN.
Help it to make good healthy lifestyle choices.

While inside the brain join the social table game, where kids can play against each other to add years to their total life by picking good lifestyle choices like wearing sunblock {+88 years} and staying away from bad choices like smoking {-35 years}.

Make your way to the Stomach and feed it to keep the body energized.
 Make sure the brain listens to the stomach before it gets too full!

Crawl through the intestines to learn how our food gets digested. There will be a few giggles 

and pitchy squeals of "Eeww!" when the kids hear all the normal, but funny sounding gassy noises.

These two little girls thought flushing the toilet was the best part , even though
 most grown-ups cringed at the idea of  looking at simulated poo.

 At the "Royal Flush" kids will get to watch video images played through the toilet bowl seat showing them what normal and abnormal bowel movements look like.

CJ insisted I sit on the royal thrown instead of him for a photo. Don't I look cute?

"Thump, Thump! Thump, Thump!"
At the heart kids can learn the difference between healthy and  unhealthy blood ,
what Type 2 Diabetes is and  how obesity can shorten your life.

Don't let the advertising fool you!  In the Brain's Processing center  children learn what's misleading about
  the labels on some of the products they see everyday. CJ and I promised to cut down on  our muffin and orange juice consumption for more whole fruits.

The NYC Green Cart is the perfect spot for your toddler kiddies. Here we are introduced to the Super Sprowtz a heroic group of vegetables who's powers encompass why they are good for our bodies. Oliver onion and Gita Garlic's
superpower is "SUPER SWEET" because they are good for our hearts.

        
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

 

"SLEEP"


In the Sleep Center kids will learn how important it is to skip that 10pm episode of "ICarly" or "Spongebob" to get an essential good nights rest. While touring this center kids will understand that while they are sleeping their bones grow, the body defends us against germs and that lack of sleep can make us cranky, frazzled and exhausted. 

Our Brain is storing memories while we sleep. 

"PLAY"                                                       

How long can you stay balanced on the beam without falling Off?

While playing around in this portion of the exhibit you can dodge musical laser beams, pedal a bike with your hands, and play a version of Whac-A-Mole where you measure your heart rate while trying to quickly tap moving lights.

 This ZIKE bike  didn't have a working timer when we were there {any popular interactive exhibit is  going to be shown lots of love by  many kids and a resulting broken part or 2 or 3}
but he worked up a sweat anyway

CJ enjoyed the Super Sprowtz puppet show hosted by the creator Radha and
 grooving to the  music while learning the Super Sprowtz "SUPER POWER" dance moves.

While we were browsing the gift shop we bumped into Radha, which was a great ending to the day.
Don't take your kids to the gift shop unless you are prepared to 
walk away with a Colby Carrot Puppet $26.
 It has now been added to CJ's Christmas wish list.

The only advise I have for you while visiting is probably to avoid the first free Friday evening of the month because it's going to be packed and you won't get to enjoy the experience for all it's worth. I say go any other weekend and pay the $11, it's well worth the money. You could even do what I did thanks to my mother-in law and clip the coupon out of the discount  Entertainment bookRipleys believe it or not}, it pays for itself after two or three destinations.

*CMOM is located in The Tisch Building at 212 West 83rd Street, between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenues. Directions

For Hours and Admission click here

Our fave place to eat afterwards is : Artie's Delicatessen

                                                     2290 Broadway (between 82nd St & 83rd St) New York, NY 10024

xoxo, Dellah