Greg Heffley, the kid who made “wimpy” cool, is back in DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: DOG DAYS, an all-new family comedy in the hit movie franchise based on the publishing phenomenon by Jeff Kinney.
Reading is not Shaun’s favorite pastime but since last summer he’s been hooked on DIARY OF A WIMPY KID book series. He’s collected each book along with the Do It Yourself Book. He brings one of the book everywhere we go, just in case there is some down time while running errands or spending a lot of time in the car.
Tomorrow Shaun and I will be hoping on a train to NYC to participate in the DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: DOG DAYS press day. We’re not only going to see a sneak peek of the movie we are going to be meeting with author Jeff Kinney and stars of the film.
Shaun is obviously very excited not just for the movie but for the entire experience. He’s trying to decide what book to bring with him.
I’ll let you know how the event goes.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid Press Event
Destination Vacation with CityPASS Giveaway
There have been lots of changes the way families vacation lately. While 2 weeks in Hawaii sounds like heaven there are so many things to do when you take a city destination getaway. Visiting local museums, historic sites and becoming a hometown tourist is a great way to discover new town or rediscover the streets you see everyday.
CityPASS is the way to go when you want to explore a city’s top attractions.
Launched in 1997 in Seattle and San Francisco, CityPASS bundles prepaid admission to each city’s top attractions – based on annual attendance – into one easy-to-use ticket booklet whose cost is up to half off what it would cost to purchase those same admissions separately.
While CityPASS isn’t availble everywhere you will hopefully find it in a major city near you or one you can plan to visit. Right now CityPASS can be found in these top North American destinations; Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Hollywood, Houston, New York City, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, Southern California and Toronto.
My family is planning a fall trip to Philadelphia. Never mind that we are in Philly a couple times a month, that’s not the point. We haven’t seen much of what the city has to offer. Shae’s never been to the Philly Zoo which is also America’s First Zoo. We are planning our trip as a mini staycation, a long weekend when the weather is more pleasant. We have 6 attractions to visit on our coupon book. Think we can squeeze them in on a long weekend?
Do you have a destination in mind? Enter to win 2 packs of CityPASS booklets for one of 10 CityPASS destinations: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Hollywood, Houston, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, or Toronto. Just tell me the destination and attraction you’d like to check out.
EXTRA ENTRIES:
To receive these extra opportunities for entries, you must fulfill the first REQUIRED entry above. Please note the changes to the entries and frequency, entries that don’t follow rules may be disregarded/ignored/deleted.
- Subscribe to LookWhatMomFound…and Dad too! via email or RSS feed
- SHARE this giveaway on YOUR Facebook wall (be sure to mention CityPASS and LookWhatMomFound..and Dad too!)
- Follow Mom & Dad & CityPASS on Twitter and Tweet this giveaway (1 time per day), please leave your twitter link each time, tweet a form of this message: Win two @CityPASS booklets and plan a destination vacation #Giveaway from @lkwhtmomfound @anddadtoo http://bit.ly/Ly6cFO
- REPIN a top destination or attraction from CityPASS Pinterest board
- Enter another Giveaway – let us know which one in the comment (one extra entry per giveaway you enter, just leave separate comments)
- Leave a relevant comment on any other Review/Our Life/Our Travels/Our Thoughts post, let us know where to find it
Your entries must follow the rules or they won’t be eligible for prizes. This contest ends 11:59 pm, Monday, August 13, 2012. The winners will be emailed and will have 24 hours to claim their prize. This contest is open to Continental US residents only. For complete rules please read our blog contest rules page.
Mom Bloggers Beauty Brunch Philadelphia
This weekend I’m heading into Philly for a Mom Bloggers Beauty Brunch with other ladies in the area, many who are a part of Philly Social Media Moms. This event organized by the gorgeous Joey Fortman is just an excuse to get together chat, eat and have some quality girl time.
The Omni Hotel is graciously hosting this rowdy bunch along with help from sponsors @BourariClinicKOP and @DonnaScottSpa and Color Bar by Marc Voci. It can’t be a beauty brunch without mini makeovers, spa representatives and skin care products.
If you’re ever in the Philadelphia area and want to indulge in an elegant but comforting brunch check out Omni Hotel at Independence Park and see what everyone else is talking about.
Located in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic area, The Azalea Restaurant at the Omni Hotel is the perfect location for Sunday brunch for those from out of town or from just around the corner.
Within a lush recently renovated environment, you can indulge in delicious regional dishes such as sautéed quail on eggplant. The Omni Hotel takes brunch seriously and offers something for everyone.
Sunday brunch at the Omni Hotel is the perfect way to end a weekend stay or a great way to kick off the upcoming week. Few things are better than enjoying the never ending menu and relaxing in the beautiful Azalea Restaurant among the inspiring décor.
The Sunday Brunch at the Azalea at the Omni Hotel includesone complimentary Bloody Mary or mimosa per adult. There are a wide array of dishes to select from on the buffet from smoked salmon, shrimp salad, smoked trout, white fish salad to herb crusted roasted rack of lamb, slow roasted beef tenderloin, braised veal, prime rib, or oven roasted turkey.
Delicious hot favorites include Seafood Newburg, tri-colored tortellini with sun dried tomato and pesto sauce or farfalle with wild mushrooms, spinach, and roasted pepper sauce, pan-seared salmon with fresh dill sauce, grilled chicken topped with fennel garlic reduction sauce, and vegetable du Jour.Appetizers and salad offerings include gazpacho salad, California Sushi Roll, Asian Noodle Salad, Russian Potato Salad, Caesar Salad, and fresh sliced fruit, as well as grilled seasonal vegetables infused with extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs.
Of course the menu includes an extensive breakfast station featuring Challah French Toast, waffles, roasted potatoes, bacon, and sausage, danish, muffins, croissants, bagels and assorted breads. The omelets are made to order with fresh cut vegetables.Of course ever great meal needs a great ending and the Sunday Brunch Buffet is no exception! Enjoy domestic and imported cheeses and an array of assorted desserts including crepes the French envy! Tea, coffee, decaf, cappuccino, espresso and fresh squeezed orange and grapefruit juice are the perfect accompaniment!
Brunch is offered weekly at $46.95 per person plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling 215.925.0000.
The Omni Hotel at Independence Park is a four-diamond European-style luxury hotel that offers elegance and style at its best – all within walking distance of the Liberty Bell, U.S. Mint, Independence Hall and the Benjamin Franklin House. Situated just 10 minutes from the Philadelphia International Airport, the Omni Hotel at Independence Park offers the ideal Philadelphia hotel location.
What I Learned from Bloggy Boot Camp Philadelphia
Something happened with this Bloggy Boot Camp. I walked away with ideas and inspiration and didn’t just talk about making changes but instantly put a couple in place. Blog conferences as a whole are supposed to educate the attendees on not just blog basics but how to run it like a business, increase traffic, put out quality content and engage your readers and fellow bloggers.
Bloggy Boot Camp Baltimore was a different feeling for me. Two years ago the sentiment felt “Every man for themself”, this weekend felt more encouraging and accepting of each other. I left Philly feeling good about where I am as a blogger but also confident that I could make some changes to grow.
Takeaways from Bloggy Boot Camp Philly
- Define your own success. Blogging goals are different for everyone and that’s ok. Whether you want to make money, write a book, be in front of the camera or inspire readers to try something new own that goal. Be ok with it. Don’t let other bloggers define what your success should be.
- Have a Purpose. Why do you blog? Who is your audience? Does your blog reflect those answers? Once your figure out your purpose you’ll be more focused on each task and not waste time on the other things.
- Always expect a payoff. This came from Laurie of Tip Junkie. That doesn’t mean expect money from everything you do but expect something. This could be new readers, increased traffic, exposure to brands or recognition within the blog world. Don’t waste time on things that won’t benefit you in the end.
- Run your blog like a business. Again Laurie from Tip Junkie had some great advice for those wanting to take big steps with our blogs. Give yourself office hours, . This helps especially with gaining some control in work/life balance.
- Try something new, you might like it. Personally I hate vlogging but I’m going to take ClassyMommy’s advice and just keep at it till I’m comfortable with it. I know if I were to increase my video reviews or regular converations it would benefit the blog. Maybe you want to expand your photography or try your hand at fancy recipes just give it a try. You’l never know who it’s going to turn out until you try.
- Don’t judge others. We all blog for different reasons with different goals.
- It’s OK to say no. If you aren’t comfortable with a topic, product, brand or anything else than don’t endorse it.
- Build relationships online and in real life. Connections with real people can bring on the best ideas.
If you’ve ever thought of attending a blog conference then Bloggy Boot Camp is definitely the way to go. The intimate gathering, the flow of information and education and the relationships built is all worth it.
I’m Going to Bloggy Boot Camp
Bloggy Boot Camp is coming to Philadelphia. I missed it last year but there is was way I was going to let it pass me by again.
That’s they formal definition. I think of it more like a get together of like-minded, social women to discuss business, blogs, networking and more. I attended Bloggy Boot Camp in Baltimore 2 years ago when I considered myself a newbie. I’m no social media maven so there is still so much to learn and why not learn from the best, the SITS Girls.
When The Secret to Success is Support (SITS) was founded in 2008, its objective was simple: To create a space where bloggers could find their tribe and grow their audience. Although the site has evolved over the years, its commitment to this mission has not changed.
Today, the brand is managed by women who are passionate about blogging and creating a resource for others to find support online and learn the skills they need to become social media savvy. Our network of 40,000 members come to The SITS Girls site to see who we are featuring from the blogging community, learn the technical skills they need to be successful online, and chat in our discussion forum.
I’m excited to attend for several reasons. I love making new friends. While I know some of my connections will continue as digital ones they will be real. The SITS Girls is honest and comforting and supportive. Since I still have lots to learn as a blogger I’m looking forward to the sessions.
Topics for Philadelphia include:
- Business of Blogging: This 2 hour break out will cover everything from contracts to creating media kits to pitching effectively to running successful campaigns and giveaways and wrap up reports. We’ll be talking money and what you need to know to “go pro”.
- Using StumbleUpon and Pinterest: These tools are an amazing asset to build your traffic and engage a wider audience. Learn how they work and how to use them effectively.
- Vlogging: How to vlog and why you should consider adding it your blogging repertoire.
- SEO: Search Engine Optimization matters. Learn easy and effective techniques to building your sites ranking.
- Design: Is your blog putting it’s best foot forward? We break it down- the good, the bad, the ugly and the fabulous. Small changes can have a huge impact.
- Writer’s Workshop: A full 2 hour breakout for those interested in crafting excellent content. Nothing like sitting in a room with a bunch of writers who “get it”.
If you ever get the chance to attend Bloggy Boot Camp, DO IT. This is the perfect event for the shy , behind the screen types. The gathering is intimate and friendly without being overwhelming. Hope to see you there.
Kenmore Blogger Summit – Day 1 – #KBS2012
For those of you that didn’t know I am one of about forty lucky bloggers that is attending the Kenmore Blogger Summit 2012 in Chicago this weekend and am super excited to be here.
This morning was a bit crazy. I was up at 5:30am EST and woke the kids up at 6am so that I could spend about an hour with them and make them breakfast before heading off to the Philly airport to catch my 9:50 flight to Chicago. Thankfully I was able to get out of Philly and landed safely in Chicago around 11:30am and arrived at the Sofitel Chicago in one piece. When we landed this morning in Chicago there was a dusting of snow but five hours later there appears to be 3-4 inches on the ground and still falling as I am typing this.
I want to thank Kenmore for putting me up in the Sofitel Chicago. It’s a very swanky hotel and all of the staff that I have encountered so far are super nice. My room is beautiful and being on the 14th floor I have a great view of the street below and am just sitting here writing this post and watching the snow fall.
Tonight we are attending a cocktail hour where I am looking forward to mingling and meeting all of the others bloggers then their will be dinner right after with the Kenmore and Google+ representatives.
Check out the Twitter hashtag for this event #KBS2012 and stay tuned for more posts as events unfold.
CHECK OUT WHAT KENMORE WANTS ME TO SHARE WITH YOU:
Kenmore asked that I share this AWESOME coupon with my readers!!!! Coupon is valid from January 22, 2012 – February 4, 2012.
RECEIVE 30% OFF at SEARS and/or KMART all regular-price KENMORE small kitchen appliances, cookware, bakeware and kitchen gadgets!
With Coupon Code: 30KENMORE
REMEMBER this offer valid on regular price merchandise sold by Sears on Sears.com and by Kmart on Kmart.com only!!!!!
When these expire, look for a current Sears promotional code here.
Phineas and Ferb Best Live Tour Ever
Phineas and Ferb is one of OUR favorite shows. We watch it as a family, recite lines, sing songs and often discuss the legality of having a pet platypus (it’s illegal by the way). Somehow we managed to squeeze in some fun right before the holidays with the kids; Phineas and Ferb, The Best Live Tour Ever.
The whole family headed down to Baltimore’s Lyric Opera House where we surprised the kids with tickets to Phineas and Ferb: Best Live Tour Ever. We kept it a secret because we knew they would drive us insane with a countdown to the show every 18 minutes. We got there early enough to get the giggles and freak outs out of their system, get our seats and grab some snacks. There was a preshow of trivia and songs which got the entire audience excited for the upcoming show. The Lyric Opera House itself was a fantastic venue, not a bad seat in the house from what I could tell.
Phineas and Ferb; The Best Live Tour Ever was so much fun, more fun that we’ve had all together in a long time. The show is about entire gang’s LAST DAY OF SUMMER and how they are going to spend it. The songs and dancing were energetic and the costumes and props were top notch. I didn’t know what to expect for costumes considering Phineas and Ferb aren’t normal looking kids; the triangle head and purple hair and all. Or course there is another story going on in the background; Agent P and Dr Doofenschmirtz battle again.
The tour itself is still out and I highly suggest getting a show in if it stops in your city.
History and Charm in a Small Package-Galveston Island
My first thoughts of a vacation are laid back, no hassle, exotic trips to the beach. My mind has been changed. Last week’s visit to Galveston Island, Texas has made me a convert to sticking to what is right here in the states. Yes Galveston Island has beaches but there is so much more. A city rich in culture, history and pride, Galveston Island offers a little bit of everything for whatever vacation you’re planning; a romantic getaway, a family retreat or a lesson on times past on a small footprint.
Moody Gardens Hotel and Spa Resort- It all started with a decadent suite just for me and Rob. Way too much room for the two of us but it was so nice to have space to spread out and relax in-between activities. Moody Gardens is more than a hotel too; it’s a non-profit foundation for the conservation and education of nature and wildlife. A member of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association, Moody Gardens works with captive and injured animals and their rehabilitation.
Aquarium Pyramid-More than 10,000 marine animals and 1 million gallons of water is the showcase at Aquarium Pyramid. Coming over the the Galveston Causeway this 10-story blue-glass aquarium stands out against the palm trees and blue skies. The Aquarium Pyramid is separated into 4 regions of the world; Carribean, South Atlantic, North Pacific and South Pacific. Each exhibit is centered around the species from that region and gives an educational overview of their natural habitat, predators and lifespan.
lionfish
Rainforest Pyramid-Glass and steel make up this see through pyramid filled with free roaming exotic animals and birds. A recent $25 million upgrade has revolutionized the way we learn about the rainforest by bringing guests up to the canopy, up close and personal to what lives within. Carnivorous plants, lizards, butterflies, macaws and even a white faced saki monkey can all be seen right before your eyes. Once on the floor you’ll visit the replica home of a giant green anaconda, piranhas and vampire bats.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark was a family owned and operated hidden gem located right next to Moody Gardens. From the hotel room you could see the rides and slides and it instantly drew us in. Even though the outside park is open seasonally the indoor park is enough for a family to enjoy a relaxing and exciting day together. We are looking into heading back to enjoy the full park next summer.
Schlitterbahn Cliffhanger ride
learn to body surf at BoogieBahn
Historic Galveston is full of stories, memories and reminders of surviving. Walking and driving past buildings you’ll see markers stating the flood lines from 1900 Hurricane, Hurricane Ike 2008, and others in between. Sea water damaged trees are transformed into pieces of art. Buildings are being brought back to their original state reminiscent of from Being one of the oldest seaports in the States and considered the “Ellis Island of the South” Galveston Island has a deep rooted foundation in maritime operations and immigration. Lots of it’s architecture has stood the test of time and is now protected by the Historical Foundation. Bishops Palace was a place that had to be seen. Built in 1892, this now museum stands as a regal Victorian presence in the midst of smaller less conspicuous homes. It survived the 1900 hurricane virtually unharmed and now attracts visitors who admire works from Nicholas Clayton and home rich in character, charm and eccentric design.
Birds of Galveston Tree Carving
Bishops Palace Architecture
Bishops Palace Details
The Galveston Seawall was built shortly after the 1900 hurricane to protect the island from disastrous storms and surges. The seawall is exactly that, a wall built into the island at the waterline about 17 feet above sea level. Spanning 10 miles long of the 32 mile long island it’s the perfect spot to watch surfers, sunbathers and the tranquil water crashing on the shore. Memorial Day 2012 expect to see a newly constructed Pleasure Pier; an amusement park built right out on the water.
The Hotel Galvez and Spa might be one of the most beautiful architecturally designed hotels I’ve ever seen. It’s multi-leveled roofs, tall windows and grand entrance make it a sight from its historic beachfront. They are celebrating 100 years with a history rich in the military, community and rebuilding of the city. Our next visit to Galveston will hopefully be on one of their rooms overlooking the water; where state of the art meets old world charm.
Hotel Galvez
I was surprised with the beauty and culture found all over Galveston Island. The people were friendly, the sites were plentiful and the heritage was rich. Since it was just Rob and I that got to enjoy the tours and fun we really want to head back so the kids can experience the fun too.
A special thanks to the Galveston Island Convention and Visitors Bureau and the participants of the Galveston Island Familiarization tour for hosting us during our Carnival Magic experience. We hope to see you all again soon.
Weekend Whirlwind Partying with Carnival and Texas
This weekend was a whirlwind. Thanks to the gracious community and tourism board of Galveston Island and Carnival Cruise Lines, Rob and I spent a busy but fun-filled weekend together traveling and touring a beautiful and historic city AND aboard the newest funship; Magic.
The Carnival Magic made it’s 1st appearance in Galveston, TX this weekend for it’s inaugural US sailing on November 14th. The Magic is not only Carnival’s newest ship but also the largest and most entertaining. The newest additions include the Red Frog Pub, expanded Waterworks and SportsSquare with favorites like miniature golf, resort style pools, Cloud 9 Spa, Serenity lounge and array kid’s clubs.
Last year’s cruise on the Dream was just that, a Dream. It was the best family vacation we’ve ever been on; the kids still talk about it today. Our visit on the Magic though topped that. We were greeted by enthusiastic and friendly crew members from the start and the fun started immediately. Country Line Dancers in the Lobby, special drinks being made at the bars and Red Frog brew being poured at the Pub. Oh, and the sushi!
After dropping off our bags and checking out our room we headed for seat and grabbed some drinks and chatted with our new bloggin’ buddies @SthrnFairyTale and her husband (Rachel and Nathan) before heading off to the Maroon 5 concert. The concert was great, the weather was gorgeous, the music was awesome, and the crowd was surprisingly tame and polite; well except for the teen that puked near us.
A night full of decedent food, free flowing drinks and really hard laughter was exactly what Rob and I needed. We met bloggers and had so much fun it was hard to say goodbye. Monday morning came way too fast and it was time to come home. We are already scheming I mean planning a way to get on the Magic for a full week’s cruise.
The 3,690-passenger Carnival Magic set sail on its inaugural six-day cruise from Galveston Nov. 14-20, calling at Costa Maya and Cozumel. On November 20, the ship will launch year-round seven-day cruises from Galveston. Two different itineraries will be offered, including seven-day western Caribbean voyages to Montego Bay, Grand Cayman and Cozumel, and week-long eastern Caribbean cruises to Nassau, Freeport, and Key West.
I Can’t Wait!
On November 13th, my favorite band, Maroon 5 will be playing in Galveston, TX. Carnival is offering this free-ticketed concert on Pier 21 to welcome Magic, their newest ship to set sail in states. Galveston is going to be homeport to the Carnival Magic and what better way to celebrate its inaugural sailing than with a party with a thousand fans.
“We wanted to do something big and memorable to mark Carnival Magic’s U.S. debut and what better way to celebrate than to bring together fans of music and fans of Carnival, along with our partners in Galveston, for an exceptional afternoon of fun and entertainment,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival Cruise Lines’ president and CEO.
Rob and I are going to be there, front and center, rocking with the rest of Galveston and other invited Carnival guests. We’re getting a sneak peak of the Magic before it heads out on its maiden US voyage. We’ve been on a Carnival cruise before, last year’s awesome family vacation was aboard the Dream; and a dream it was. The amenities, food, entertainment and activities rival those of resorts and hotels. We talk constantly about booking again and just can’t figure out where to go, when to go and which ship to sail. It doesn’t help that Carnival is pumping out ships bigger and better than the one before.
Do you want to come to Galveston with us? Carnival is giving away tickets, airfare, accommodations and spending money. Make a video of Your Best Dance Moves and upload it to Carnival’s Facebook Page. Check out all the details and good luck!
We are just a couple weeks away and I’m beyond excited. Did I tell you Maroon 5 is my favorite band, no lie.
