Things for Families to do in NYC

A number of friends have inquired about my family’s trip to New York City. We went from dancing in car seats to dancing on airplanes, dancing on subway trains, dancing in taxis and ultimately… stepping here there and everywhere NYC style.  My sister and brother-in-law lived in Manhattan for a number of years allowing us to visit a number of cool places… All with an NYC-transplant as our tour guide. While there, I decided to take note and write down a list of go-to places. Here’s a mom’s perspective. Yep! All kid friendly. Happy travels!

The List

Brooklyn Bridge – walk accross

Shark Boat

Empire State Building

Parks – EVERYWHERE

Museum of Natural History

Chinatown

Time Square

Doughnut Planet

Central Park 

Governors Island is a very cool place and it’s free. 

The SUBWAY – don’t rent a car

World Trade Center Memorial

The Breakdown

The day that we walked across the Brooklyn Bridge we ended up walking 11 miles! There’s an area on top only for foot traffic which gives an amazing perspective.

The Shark Boat actually goes on the body of water and takes you past all of the important landmarks like the Statue of Liberty – giving a cool perspective. There’s usually a Groupon for discounted tickets. ​

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The Empire State Building has two options for ticket prices. I recommend purchasing the ticket for the MAIN DECK which is on the 86th floor. It is the one that has open air rather than windows. Feeling the breeze through your hair 86 stories high is spectacular.. No need to pay more to go any higher… if you go higher you’re looking out through windows and do not get the same effect. 

If the kids are going, many of the PARKS have water features which are pretty cool. Make sure you always have a bathing suit packed.

We had a lot of fun at the Museum of Natural History. (That’s where they have all of the dinosaur bones.) They have a price posted her ticket but are willing to take a lesser amount as a “donation” which is a nice perk. 

Chinatown is filled with decadent foods and fun little places to shop. It’s really fascinating to see the difference between all of the boroughs and areas throughout this amazing city. 

You can find a number of fun places to eat in Time Square. It’s worth it to go in the early evening so you can see all of the flashing lights. The last time we went it was super crowded, but the kids were intrigued. 

New York City is known for its number of delicious foods. I highly recommend visiting Doughnut Planet. They have the best donut I have ever eaten. Try a few. 

Governors Island was once a full-service military base for the US Army and Coast Guard. You take a ferry from the mainland across to the island, it’s free. Once there you can explore a number of military ruins… a citadel, view artifacts- like cannons, lounge in hammocks on a gorgeous greenbelt and see a clear view of the city. There are often little snack shops set up in the picnic area. 

The Subway is fun! I can take you to wherever you need to go. Make sure to get a map. Some stations have cool break dancers to watch. 

The World Trade Center Memorial is a somber place. Beautiful yet heartbreakingly sad. Seeing so many names on the memorial is an eye-opening experience. 

Enjoy NYC!

❤️ Jen

San Diego County Fair Fun

Now that summer is off to a running start, I’d like to suggest taking your kids to the San Diego County Fair. If your kids are like my CarseatDancers, they ask, “Where are we going today?” every stinkin’ morning. 

We’d never been to the fair before and I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect. It took a good 30 minutes to park but made up for it by providing a people mover tram to the enterance. They were pretty efficient and had plenty of employees. TIP: Do not wash your car prior to going. 

We quickly walked up to the ticket stalls and were whisked through quickly. It helped that we found an opportunity to get the kid’s FREE admission through their summer reading program. 

Yes, read 10 books and come to the Fair free!Kids up to age 12 can get a free day at the San Diego County Fair if they read 10 age-appropriate books and have that verified by their teacher or librarian.

I even found a GROUPON for discounted adult tickets! 

Pig races. 

Carnival rides. 

Carnival games. 

Carnival prizes. 

Decadent foods. ​

​Wrangling wooden cattle + petting horses. 

+ Live music. 🎶

We wandered for hours and truly enjoyed ourselves. Bring sun screen. Drink water. Completely in awe over the sights, the sounds, the smells… 🐷👏🏻🎡🎢🎠💰🎉👧🏼🐵👱🏼‍♀️🦁🍡🍦🐂🐎🎶

Go!

Happy summer! 

xoox ❤️ Jen

2016 Moms! Holiday Gift Guide

Ohhh… I am in LOVE with these items on my Christmas wish list. {One will do; you need to give them options. Right?} Click each link to take you directly to where you can purchase each fabulous item. 

Happy Shopping! Merry Christmas. 🎄 🎁🎉

❤️Jen

1. Apron – $ 74

Have you seen these “Proper Bad Ass Aprons” from Hedley & Bennett? I’m in love. They had me at pockets & pinstripes! 😍 Plus, they come in pint-size for those parents wanting to introduce their kids to the kitchen. Sweet!

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2. Josie B. Doormat– $44

With messages – for anyone gracing your frontdoor – like: “Bye Felicia,” “Better late than ugly” and my fave, “If you’re Amazon, a Babysitter or Joanna Gaines. We’re home” you’ll be the talk of the town! Be sure to check out some of their racier styles too. Be careful…  I may or may not have had coffee spew from my nose while browsing  Josie B.‘s etsy page. LMAO!

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3. Roomba iRobot – $375+

Imagine, vacuuming your home while you’re not there. Crazy AMAZING!  

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4. Glen Ivy Spa Giftcard – $ ANY

Glen Ivy Hot Springs is one of my favorite places to relax. Rejuvenate in the 150 year old hot springs, take a mud bath or splurge for a massage. You deserve it! Now through December 21st  you can purchase a $100 gift card for only $85!

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5. Spitfire Fringe Boots – $250

Fringe!!! These adorable buckskin boots are handcrafted & made especially for you. The ladies of junk gypsy are sweet as pie and uber creative. They have graced HGTV, designed for pottery barn and just added their own book to my bookshelf. Can I be Jolie and Amie when I grow up?

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6. Sunglasses – $96

The infinity sign happening on the front of these shades will have everybody taking a double take. The large lenses are on trend and flattering on every face. I just love this pair of Tom Ford Women’s Sandra Oversized Red Gradient Sunglasses that I found on Amazon prime.

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7. Silver Stacking Rings – $59 ea. 

Lisa Leonard has created simplicity in a personalized ring. Wearing your children’s names on your finger is a gentle reminder of how much you love them. Stack them up with a pair of jeans our dress them up. My faves are made in silver. Lisa creates all types of jewelry. Check out her website.

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8. Keurig Brewing – $179.99

I see coffee as a treat. Mmm… hazelnut.  Are you a fan of donut shop, French vanilla or PSL?  It’s nice to not have to brew a whole pot. With this brewing system everyone you’re with can have a different type of coffee. The options are endless. This unit allows for singleserving or more. 

2016 Kids! Holiday Gift Guide

This Christmas, I decided that it was important to not go overboard with spending. I picked a few items for my “Kids! Holiday Gift Guide” that your children will absolutely adore. Here is my rule of thumb, choose one thing in each category: start with something that they want, something that they need, something to wear, plenty to read, something that they take time to create or make, a treat to eat & a little something extra. From my Carseat Dancers to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas! 

Happy shopping!

❤️Jen

P.S. Please feel free to shop directly by clicking directly on each blue link.  

1. Coin Purse – $14.99

Relic Caraway Zip Penguin

My girls enjoy spending their own money on the items on their wish list. And when they are not spending, you’re  teaching them to SAVE. This cute little coin purse is the perfect gift for any child. Be sure to give it with a little bit of cash inside.

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2. Shopkins Snack – $ .47

Shopkins Shortbread Cookie Bites

Anything Shopkins is all the rage. Your  little cutie will love this snack. Santa could add a bag to their stocking. Yum!

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3. Usborne Books Set – $119.99

Shine-a-Light Series 

All kids enjoy books that are interactive. The books in this series allow children to shine a flashlight behind the page, or even hold it up to the light, to reveal what is hidden in and around different places. This series encourages children to READ & discover a world of great surprise all while learning along the way. So fun!

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4. Fairy Door- $24.99

Irish Fairy Door

A perfectly darling fairy door that comes with a magical key can be placed at the base of a wall indoors or outdoors against a tree as a sign of welcome for fairies—when the key disappears, the fairy has arrived! A charming gift for those who will forever believe in fairies. 

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5. Custom Dress- $52.00-ish

CourtneyCourtney Dress

Have you ever had the most comfortable concert T-shirt?  Or perfectly soft piece of clothing… something that you wish you could wear on the daily? Creator, seamstress, Courtney has hit the jackpot with the sweetest dresses EVER! My daughters and niece all have her birthday dresses & ADORE them! Check out her whole line. You will want them all! ❤️

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6. Kid’s t-Shirt – $21

Regulators Mount Up 

The T-shirts in the Saturday Morning Pancakes collection are hilarious. “Things that make you go hmmm…” and bring you back to those earlier years. 

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7. The Shrunks Trampoline Pool – $99

Trampoline

Say what!?! Two products in one! As a trampoline, the sturdy construction features a jumping area measuring 50 inches in diameter. To use it as a pool, simply flip it over! Great exercise and great fun. The best “babysitter” ever! LOL! 😂

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8. Lego Classic Set – $40

Legos

With this sweet Lego set your kids can be creative and build what they want. 

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9. Tsukihoshi Sneakers – $59.95

Rainbow Tennis Shoes

Cool breathable tennis shoes with barefoot comfort are all the rage. My kids love the idea of Velcro & no tie laces for easy on easy off. Every kid could use a pair of the perfect sneakers. 

 

Hudson Kids! : Denim for kids.

Do you ever find yourself dreaming about that one pair of cozy jeans? You know the ones, the “go-to” pair that not only feel great on but look fabulous too! Would you believe me if I told you that I found THAT pair in pint-size? They’re Hudson Kids! Jeans by Five Star Apparel – NYC 
So, immediately after being introduced to these jeans, I quickly found myself “Oohing and Ahhing” over the soft quality and exceptional stretch of the premium denim Hudson uses. They don’t overstretch and do maintain their shape throughout the entire day. I am SO loving these lightweight, fashionable jeans for kids. I mean, who wouldn’t want a pair of reasonably priced, designer jeans, for their child? These jeans are tailored to fit perfectly.

I knew that my daughters who are six and seven would love to LIVE in these jeans whether they be an everyday staple, for play or a even a key piece in their Back-to-School wardrobe. 

Here, my six-year-old is wearing:

• Repaired Jean – Five Pocket Rip & Repair Patch Skinny

• LOVE: They are sensory friendly for my super clothing-sensitive little fashionista.

• Color: Pool

• Retail for: $55

Skinny jeans are all the rage for school-age children these days . My daughters have tried boot cut, boyfriend and numerous other styles but I have found that the Hudson skinny jeans are much more comfortable for running around in. They don’t trip over any extra fabric in these jeans – a huge plus! The higher waist guarantees that no panties will accidentally show and they are totally easy to slip on and off… Yay; they love dressing themselves!

Here, my seven-year-old is wearing:

• Collin Skinny – Flap Pocket Skinny

• LOVE: It’s awesome that my seven-year-old can be so on trend & she especially loves the adjustable elastic waist band. 

• Color: Ripple Blue Wash

• Retail for: $49

This pair has the triangular pocket flaps that Hudson is known for. Fun. Classic. Functional. And oh so comfortable. Who knew that a pair of jeans would make her look so grown up? Seven going on 17. Wow! ❤️

Hudson Kids! has a number of amazing options for girls and boys, infant to size 16, coming this fall, just in time for back-to-school shopping. I’d like to highly encourage you to go instore to have your cutie pie try these on, they will immediately be drawn to how comfortable they are. However, you can order them online. Find Hudson Kids! at Nordstrom, amazon, Von Maur, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdale’s. 

Happy shopping… you will be dancing in car seats all the way home. 

Cheers! 

❤️ Jen

Note: For this post I was provided with jeans for my daughters to try. I was not compensated for this post. All comments are my own. #SITCshoppingday

Summer in Saltwater Sandals

Summer in Saltwater Sandals

As a mommy of southern California girls I am always on the lookout for the best summer shoes… with the hope of avoiding burnt feet. 

This summer we took a family vacation to New York City. I wanted to get my girls a couple of pairs of durable shoes that could withstand getting wet and wouldn’t cause blisters… 

AND looked nothing like Crocs. Sorry. Not sorry. 😁
I picked up a pair of name-brand tennis shoes, figuring we would do a ton of walking, and a pair of Saltwater Sandals from my favorite children’s boutique: Kissui – Redlands, CA, recommended by a fellow mommy on the go. 

I presented my girls with their new sandals upon arriving to NYC. (I got my 3-yer-old niece a pair too.💕) Thrilled! They immediately put them on and we headed to a park. They ran, jumped, climbed, played hard… didn’t complain once about their feet. We walked a total of 8 miles on our first day there!

Each morning, I would announce that it was, “Time to get our shoes on.” And both girls obliged by strapping on their Saltwater Sandals. By the fourth day I was recommending switching to their name brand tennis shoes, to give the sandals a break, and my six-year-old responded with tears! “But Mommy, I just love these.” — Holding up her sandals. 

I chose not to argue & allowed her to wear what was most comfortable. After two weeks in New York City, wearing the same pair of sandals, I was happy to see that they were still firmly intact, not rusted or discolored after the numerous times playing in water & in the city heat. My girls had NOT complained of one blister or one sore foot for that matter. I am so impressed by these sandals. Honestly, they wore them EVERY DAY of our trip!


I recommend that everyone go out and buy a pair of Saltwater Sandals! The sizes range from the tiniest baby foot all the way up to Adult. Yes, ADULT! Both of my girls have told me that they would love, “These same sandals in other colors…” 

🔹They run big so I would suggest going down a size. 

🔹PRODUCT INFORMATION:

* Water-friendly leather upper since 1940!

* Breathable leather lining and footbed.

* Ankle strap with buckle closure ensures a secure fit.

* Hand stitched construction.

* Brass buckles won’t rust if you get them wet.

* Vulcanized rubber outsole.

* Measurements:

    * Weight: 6 oz

My CarseatDancers are always DANCING in Car Seats … from now on, I would be surprised if they weren’t also dancing in Saltwater Sandals.

 
❤️ Jen
Just so you know, I was not paid for this post. I was not given any sandals for free. Although, I’d LOVE some. I am writing this purely on factual occurrences that I HAD to share. 😍You’re welcome! 😉 I have never been more impressed by a shoe! 

Drop Stop® • Review • Giveaway

Summer is almost upon us and if you’re like me you are already planning your summer vacation. Are you a fan road trips? Where do you hope to go to next? What are your road trip necessities?

I am excited to introduce you to a new product that will help your road trips run a bit smoother. Drop Stop® is a cool new tool that prevents keys, phones, change, jewelry, makeup, bottle caps, pens, gum, food and more from falling down the car seat gap.

In less than 30 seconds I was able to install the Drop Stop® on my own. The soft, flexible Neoprene molded easily in the gap between my car seats & center console.

After a week of driving I usually find a myriad of junk piled in the gap mentioned previously. But not this time! Drop Stop® truly stopped EVERYTHING from falling to the floor and ultimately getting lost or forgotten. Wow! And, any crumbs that landed on it were easily vacuumed off. Excellent for parents on the go!

Stats:
* As Seen on Shark Tank
* Easily fits between your car seat and console.
* Moves with the seat and is attached via the seat belt catch.
* Prevents anything from falling between the seats and center console.
* ONE SIZE FITS ALL – Trucks & Cars!
* One Time Installation!
* Drop Stop® is made using HIGH GRADE NEOPRENE.
* Drop Stop® seat wedge is durable and easy to clean!

 

I am excited to announce that they are airing tonight (April 5th) on “Beyond The Tank” at 10pm/9pm cst on ABC.

They are also offering FREE SHIPPING on any Dancing in Carseats fan’s order! Just visit the www.BuyDropStop.com website & tell them I sent you – in the comments. This offer will be valid from now until midnight Sunday 4/10/2016. So, go grab a set!

Cheers!

❤️ Jen

I was not compensated for this post; however, I did receive a set of Drop Stop® products to try myself.

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One lucky Dancing in Carseats follower will win their very own Drop Stop® over on @CarseatDancers on Instagram. Head on over there now for all of the details.

 

 

Valentine’s Day >> Gift Guide and Instagram {Flash Giveaway}

1. Plum Print– known for their keepsake art books, also sell folded notecards. Your kids artwork is printed on the front and an Artist credit is given on the back. These would be perfect for Valentine’s Day cards for you kids class, close family and friends, or lovely cards to send sweet love note all year round. (GIVEAWAY Pack of 24: $35)

2. Chasing Fireflies– After Christmas I have become obsessed with matching family pajamas, so why not add some fun Valentine’s Day ones into the mix for a fun night in. The pajamas from Chasing fireflies are comfortable and wear great after multiple washings.

3. Vosges Dark Chocolate Renegade Truffle Collection– Words can’t describe how amazing these chocolates taste, and one is never enough. These dark chocolate truffles are infused with flowers, roots, herbs and spices from around the world. The black heart box is pierced with rose gold spikes, inspired by the courage and bravery required to seek and accept true love.

4. Teleflora Sweet Thoughts Bouquet with Red Roses– For beautiful flowers that will last way beyond Valentine’s Day Teleflora is the place to shop for sweet smelling modern arrangements. This year Teleflora also has a Love Note Concierge hotline (1-844-IT-IS-LOVE). Anyone who calls into now through February 12th (7 AM – 11 PM EST) to the toll free line will be coached on writing a love note for their Valentine! Additionally, for anyone who calls into the Concierge and requests to purchase a Teleflora Valentine’s Day bouquet, will automatically receive a 20% discount. (GIVEAWAY $100 Gift Card)

5. Famous Footwear slippers– When spending a Valentine’s night in with your loved ones, you want your feet to be warm and cozy. Famous Footwear has a large affordable selection, you deserve it. (GIVEAWAY $20 Gift Card)

6. Minted Art Prints– I love Minted and they do more than just personalized photo cards. Minted has a huge selection of fine art framed prints, they provide a marketplace for independent artists who might not have gotten their art in front of such a large audience.

7. Sephora lip gloss– Kiss Kiss Universal Pink Gloss, this lightly scented lip gloss in a universal pink shade for a beautiful smile. Plus you can personalize the packaging for a great Valentine’s Day gift.

8. Chromecast TV– Spend a night in, with your current crush casting one of your favorite romantic dramas. From Google, this cast device can stream your favorite entertainment from your phone or tablet straight to the TV. (GIVEAWAY one Chromecast)

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Hope you will stop by Instagram {TODAY} to be part of our My Strange Family and Carseat Dancers sweet giveaway.

TO ENTER like this photo on INSTAGRAM & follow both @kristrange & @carseatdancers –> TAG a friend in the INSTAGRAM comments.

For additional entries follow the GIVEAWAY sponsors ON INSTAGRAM… 25 custom cards from @plumprint, $100 gift card to @teleflora, $20 gift card to @famousfootwear and a Google Chromecast!

WINNER will be announced , via Instagram, TODAY – SUNDAY Feb 7th. GOOD LUCK! 🍀

Christmas Wish List for Women >> Gift Guide

This collection of goods is perfect for the WOMEN in your life. I’m sure you’ll see that there’s something for every woman on your Christmas list! Is she a mom? Your best friend? Traveler – always on the go? We’ve got you covered!

1. MAC HUGGABLE LIPCOLOUR – in Touché
I receive so many compliments every time I wear this lipstick.
MAC Cosmetics
$20

2. CD >> Adele – 25
Hello… This entire CD has me swooning. Her musical talent is phenomenal.
Target
$13.99

3. Robe >> Charter Club Robe
Normally, I wouldn’t recommend buying her “clothing” for Christmas… sizes often vary too much. However, a robe is a brilliant gift option. This one is super cozy, perfect for cuddling up on the couch with a glass of wine {or hot cocoa} in hand. Ahhh…
Macy’s
$28.99 {Today’s Sale}

4. Camera >> Fujifilm Instax Mini 8
Crazy cool pictures in hand at the touch of a button!
Urban Outfitters
$80 {The current sale price is a steal. Normally this is $100!}

5. Purse >> Coach Edie Shoulder Bag
I absolutely love the modest vibe that this handbag gives off. The fact that it doesn’t have logos all over it makes it even more usable. So on trend.
Coach
$325

6. Boots >> ‘Lambert’ Fringe Booties
OMG! These are UH-MAZE-ING!
Nordstrom
$90

7. Sunglasses >> SPY “Farrah” Happy Lens Collection Polarized Sunglasses
I sport these shades & LOVE them! Have you tried the polarized “Happy Lens” by SPY Optic? The color and clarity of these lenses are unreal.
SPY Optic
$42 {Current SALE price.}

8. Keurig 2.0 K500 Coffee Maker
Brewing System with Carafe
I don’t know what I’d do with out my Keurigs!?! Yes, Keurigs! I own 3. I’ve been asked by my CarseatDancers, “How many cups of coffee have you had today?” My reply: “Not enough!” Keurig has made my LOVE of coffee grow immensely.
Bed Bath & Beyond
$199.99 {Remember to use your 20% off coupon when purchasing.}

Merry Christmas & Happy Shopping!
xoox, Jen

Christmas Gift Guide >> for Boys

Snips and snails, and puppy dogs tails, That’s what little boys are made of.

Is there a little boy on your Christmas list who’s got it all? Well, we put together a Christmas Wish List sure to make every little guy swoon, even the one who has it all. We’ve picked items from Star Wars to Batman and everything in between.

1. Lego City Space Port Utility Shuttle 6007
Target
$23.99

2. Discovery Kids T-Rex Moving Figure
Kohl’s
$31.49

3. BATMAN™ Ride On Vehicle
Pottery Barn Kids
$119

4. BABIATORS Sunglasses
BABIATORS
$20

5. Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars
Zappos
$35

6. Star Wars Yoda Character Hugger And Throw Set
Kohl’s
$20

7. Book: The Little Boy Who Lost his Name
LostMy.Name
$30

8. Tucker + Tate
Fitted Two-Piece Pajamas
(Little Boys & Big Boys)
Nordstrom
$32

9. Hammond’s Candy Cane
Hammond’s Candies
$2.95

From my carseat dancers to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas…
Happy shopping!
❤️ Jen