RSS Email
You are here: Home / Archives for Our Travels

What I Learned from Bloggy Boot Camp Philadelphia

May 22, 2012 by

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.

inspired by bloggy boot camp

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

May 17, 2012 by

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.

Bloggy Boot Camp is a one day blog and social media conference for women hosted in major cities all around the U.S. Everyone, from brand new bloggers to experienced social media mavens, can benefit from this experience.

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

January 20, 2012 by

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.






I Disclose




Phineas and Ferb Best Live Tour Ever

January 3, 2012 by

phineas and ferb live tourPhineas 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.



I Disclose




History and Charm in a Small Package-Galveston Island

November 23, 2011 by

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.
moody gardens pyramid aquarium

lionfish

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.

rainforest pyramid moody gardens

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 galveston tx

Bishops Palace Architecture

bishops palace galveston tx historic mansion

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 photo courtesy of Wyndam

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.






I Disclose




Weekend Whirlwind Partying with Carnival and Texas

November 15, 2011 by

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.
carnival magic galveston texas
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.
carnival magic waterworks dumpbucket

carnival cruise magic
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.
maroon 5 carnival cruise magic concert galveston texas

maroon 5 carnival cruise magic concert galveston texas

maroon 5 carnival cruise magic galveston concert
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 Disclose




I Can’t Wait!

October 21, 2011 by

carnival-cruise-blogger-ambassadorOn 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.




Family Getaway at Great Wolf Lodge

August 2, 2011 by

Last week was our official summer vacation of 2011. Our original week long getaway plans got changed at the last minute and we ended up doing shorter trips to multiple places. Our first stop was Great Wolf Lodge in Pocono Mountains, PA. We had visited Great Wolf Lodge before when we attended Reviewers Retreat but this time was completely uninterrupted and focused on the kids.

Welcome to Great Wolf Lodge

Great Wolf Lodge, Pocono Mountains
We arrived earlier than our check-in time so we could enjoy a full day from the start. We all got suited up and headed into the large indoor waterpark. The kids knew exactly where they wanted to go; the slides. Shae is not scared of rides so she headed right up to the couple waterslides she already knew she was tall enough for. She must’ve dragged Sabreena up those couple flights of steps a dozen times. Shauns favorite place is the wave pool. He loves bobbing up and down and “swimming for his life” against the waves.
Great Wolf Lodge, Pocono Mountains
Great Wolf Lodge, Pocono Mountains
Great Wolf Lodge, Pocono Mountains
Great Wolf Lodge, Pocono Mountains

Rob and I got to enjoy the outdoor pool this time. We planted ourselves under a table with snacks and drinks while the kids came to visit every few minutes and play. For the most part Rob and I spent our time alone, without the kids. Great Wolf Lodge is a resort for kids, parents are just the transportation. From the Northern Lights Arcade to MagiQuest Adventure to Scoops Spa there is something for every child besides the obvious waterpark.

Great Wolf Lodge, Pocono MountainsGreat Wolf Lodge, Pocono MountainsGreat Wolf Lodge, Pocono MountainsGreat Wolf Lodge, Pocono Mountains

Eating at Great Wolf Lodge is an expensive event but the variety is perfect when you are trying to feed adults and children at the same time. I love love love the pasta bar. I’m able to add every single veggie I love to the pasta shape of choice and just ask for a light olive oil and garlic sauce. It was perfect and if I had the room in my belly I would’ve gotten seconds. Dessert for kids is a must when “eating out”. The selection is pretty good. Ice Cream is always available and each day there are different cupcakes, cookies and pies available. Seafood, burgers, soup and pasta, the choice is yours.

I would like to recommend to management of the Poconos Mountain location to add some air conditioning to the Swim Shop. I went in to purchase a new swimsuit and it was so ridiculously hot and humid that trying anything on was near impossible.

The kids are already asking when we can go back.

 

I Disclose




Why I’m Looking Forward To Our Next Carnival Cruise

September 4, 2010 by

So it has been about a week since we have come home from our week aboard the Fun Ship Carnival Dream. This was the entire families’ first cruise and I loved it so much that is all I have been talking about. So much that Melinda told me she is sick of hearing it and not because she didn’t have a great time but because I am excessive and that is ALL I have talked about.

Here is a list of the things that make me want to go on another cruise:

  • 24/7 Food – The Carnival Dream had burgers until 1:30am, deli sandwiches until 11pm, pizza 24/7, room service 24/7, ice cream 24/7 and the daily 6pm dining in the Crimson Dining Room was to die for(the food was soooo good)
  • Non-stop entertainment – Shows in the Comedy Club, Encore Theater, Casino (which I was a few dollars at), and not to mention the piano bar and dance club. The picture below is the Fun Force (Break Dancers), they were awesome.

  • Serenity Lounge – Adults only lounge. We did get to use this once for about an hour while Sabreena stayed with Shaun and Shae but the next cruise will be just Melinda and I and this will be utilized a lot more.
  • Pools – They were salt water which I thought was pretty cool.
  • Port – What better way to get to see four different places in 7 days. We went to Cozumel, Belize, Isla Roatan and Costa Maya.
  • Relaxation – We got to do some of this but again with three kids this was hard to do. Next time we will be sure to relax to the fullest.

This past cruise we flew to Florida and left out of Port Canaveral which was very nice but next time we are going to leave from the Port of Baltimore which is about an hour drive for us. Leaving closer to home will cut down the travel time by about 80% plus we can bring more cloths without having to pay bag fees, LOL.

Even though the kids will not be cruising with us next time the highlight of this cruise for Shaun was probably Camp Carnival. Shaun enjoyed camp so much he missed dinner with us one night and went to dinner with his camp friends which I was shocked about because he loved dessert so much at the 6pm dinning. For Sabreena was probably Club O2 where she made a few friends and got to hang out a little bit and for Shae was Water Works where she spent a ton of time on the slide.

For some reason I was always scared to cruise thinking the boat would sink or get hit by a rouge wave but I must admit it was the best vacation we have ever been on. Everyone including the staff was SUPER friendly and we were never bored because there was always something to do.

I can’t wait until our next cruise on the Fun Ship Carnival Pride out of Baltimore!

Thank you to Carnival for providing the complimentary 7-day cruise as part of their Mom-bassador Program. All opinions and descriptions presented belong solely to LookWhatMomFound…and Dad too! and were not influenced in anyway by anyone.




Stopping off Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan, Honduras @CarnivalCruise

September 1, 2010 by
This was the Port of Call during our Dream Cruise in Isla Roaton, Honduras, Mahogany Bay.  The white sand beach and clear turquoise water were the best we’ve ever seen.  I could see our feet while standing neck high in the water. Our rented cabana was a nice retreat from the sun to sip on drinks and snack on food from the on site restaurant.

With silky-sand beaches and diamond-clear seas, Roatán, Honduras, is one of the Caribbean’s hidden gems. The largest of Honduras’s Bay Islands is a real beauty, built on a backbone of volcanic rock and ringed by the world’s second largest coral reef. Carnival® cruises to Roatán, Honduras promise superb diving and fishing and swoon-worthy beaches. The lush landscape of the wildlife reserves and pristine marine parkland of Roatán awaits you on your cruise to Honduras.

 

Stopping off Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan, Honduras, @CarnivalCruise
Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan, Honduras @CarnivalCruise

mountains of honduras

Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan, Honduras @CarnivalCruise

mahogany bay, isla roatan




« Previous Page
Next Page »