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The Ride of a Lifetime

Somehow I managed to weasel my way into an opportunity that had nothing to do with me.  I got to ride on a hot air balloon with the US Hot Air Balloon Team with Joey Fortman.

The day finally came and I trekked an hour and half one way to meet Joey Fortman at the the butt crack of dawn. I felt like a school girl the whole ride there. I was slightly nervous but way more excited and eager to do right by her since I had been recruited to take the pictures of the launch and her segment for The Today Show. She said I did good, lets just hope she wasn’t just being nice.

I hope these pictures express just a little bit of the experience and how freeing and refreshing it felt to fly above rooftops.

early morning sunrise time for hot air ballooning

hot air balloon filling up, philadelphia

us hot air balloon team, philadelphia,

hot air balloon ride

hot air balloon over 422, hot air balloon shadow

hot air balloon, view from the sky, birds eye view

 

view from hot air balloon

partner in crime, joey fortman, hot air balloon

I’ll be your sidekick whenever you want as long a life is always like this

I want to thank Stan of the US Hot Air Balloon Team and his helpful and joke cracking crew for the spectacular ride. It really was something I’ll remember forever. I could’ve done without the bumpy landing though 🙂




Imagination Movers Live in Concert Sesame Place

We may have expressed our love of Imagination Movers before. Since Shae was little she has loved the characters, guest stars and music that comes out of the hit show. They are coming to Philadelphia, performing at Sesame Place

imagination movers philadelphia sesame place

Tuesday, July 10, 2012 and Wednesday, July 11, 2012 (10:00 AM – 9:00 PM )

Imagination Movers Live Show Times:Tuesday and Wednesday 1:30pm, 4:30pm, 6:30pm in Monster Rock Theater

Pricing: Adults $10.00 + tax
Children (ages 2-11) $10.00 + tax
Infants under 2 are free, but require a reservation.

*Tickets not valid for park admission. Paid park admission required. Infants will be required to sit on the lap of an adult.

sesame place philadelphia for kids

Ranked as one of the most well-attended family concerts, the blue-jumpsuit-clad boys are currently riding out a wave of success from their latest CD/DVD, Rock-O-Matic, containing dance-hall-ready songs like the ska-inspired “Everybody Sing” and “Dear Old Dad.” The Movers sing about messy rooms, healthy snacks, sibling rivalry and other topics that relate to being a little kid. Their musical style, however, would sound right at home on a weekly MTV countdown. Join Rich Collins, Scott Durbin, Dave Poche and Scott “Smitty” Smith this July at Sesame Place!
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How To Train Your Dragon Philadelphia Presale

Using inspriration directly from the Academy Award nominated film How to Train Your Dragon comes Dreamworks How to Train Your Dragon Live Spectacular.

The live production rolls fire-breathing action, epic adventure and heartfelt laughter into an original captivating story set in the mythical world of Vikings and wild dragons. Based on the book by Cressida Cowell, it centers on Hiccup, a Viking teenager who doesn’t fit in with his tribe’s longstanding tradition of heroic dragon slayers. Hiccup’s world is turned upside down when he encounters a dragon that challenges him and his fellow Vikings to see the world from an entirely different point of view. The story presents a vision so grand in scale that only DreamWorks Animation and Global Creatures could bring How to Train Your Dragon to life in front of a live audience.
Source: PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1bnzw)

how to train your dragon philadelphia presale tickets
This show is coming to Philadelphia September 12-16 at the Wells Fargo Center. That also means we have a special presale code right here at LookWhatMomFound…and Dad too! Click this link and use code MOM for a presale tickets for the Wednesday, Thursday and Friday shows before they go on sale to the public June 25, 2012.

Hope to see you there!
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Hersheys Track and Field Games in Philadelphia

A couple weeks ago I shared with you an event here in the Philadelphia area; the Hershey’s Track & Field Games. That was my week of Shae’s 5day fever so I was unable to attend. Like I mentioned before these events are the largest youth sports program of its kind in North America.

Hundreds of kids and their coaches and families showed up at Northeast High School to compete in competitions such as Standing Long Jump, 200 Meter Dash, 4X100 Meter Relay, 800 Meter Run and more. Each child was competing for a spot at the Hershey Track and Field North American Final in Hershey, PA.
hersheys track field games
hershey's family track and field games
Track Olympian Carl Lewis, 50 years old, talked with ESPN.com Playbook, ABC Sports, FOX Sports Radio about the importance of the games and keeping family involved .These games are built on self esteem, fitness, sportsmanship and hard work. The children involved work hard to achieve goals of placing, winning and setting records and milestones. Having fun and making friends along the way make these games different from others.

While our kids aren’t involved in organized sports over the summer we do encourage active outdoor play to stay healthy and strong. These little steps keep them ready for dance, football and cheerleading season coming up.
frisbee
hula hoop
jumprope
Do you know a track and field athlete between the ages 9-14? Find out if there is a Hershey’s Track and Field Games near you.
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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.

mom bloggers beauty brunch philadelphia
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.

Omni Hotel Independence Park Philadelphia

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.

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USA 7’s Collegiate Rugby Championship Discount Philadelphia

In our family, we are huge sports fans. So we can’t wait for the weekend of fun on June 2nd and 3rd at this years Rugby Championship.

The 2012 Collegiate Rugby Championship (CRC) is a two-day rugby event at PPL Park in Chester, PA with live entertainment, gourmet food, interactive games and other activities. The tournament features 16 elite University teams competing in 38 matches over two days, in exciting pool play format. Rugby is the newest sport to be admitted to the Olympic Games, and the CRC showcases some of the USA’s top Olympic contenders. Participating teams for the CRC have been chosen based on their quality of rugby, fan following and the potential for exciting rivalries. Several teams are returning for the 2012 CRC, including Army, Navy, Notre Dame, and 2011 Champions Dartmouth. Local favorites Penn State and Temple will also be returning, and will now be joined by Delaware. The field is rounded out by top teams, Cal, Florida, NC State, Wisconsin, Arizona, Maryland, Notre Dame and “Red River” rivals, Texas and Oklahoma.

Just use the promotional code – dropkick to receive a 30% discount off ticket price.
Single-day and weekend tickets for USA 7’s CRC are also available online at www.USAsevensCRC.com, by phone at 1-800-298-4200 or in person at the PPL Park box office. Group discounts are available by calling 215-389-9543.




Hershey’s Track and Field Games Philadelphia

There’s more to Hershey’s than chocolate kisses and syrup. This year marks the 35th birthday of the Hershey’s Track and Field Games.

The HERSHEY’S Track & Field Games are the largest youth sports program of its kind in North America, with hundreds of thousands of children competing every year. Everyone has a chance to be among the 480 athletes who qualify to compete at the North American Final. The HERSHEY’S Track & Field Games has produced many Olympic medalists and competing athletes.

On Tuesday May 22nd at Northeast High School’s Charlie Martin Memorial Stadium children and their coaches, friends and families will gather to participate in Run, Jump and Throw activities. While there will be an organized track meet for kids age 9-14 there will be plenty of opportunities for children of all ages to have fun and get active. Step up to one of the many activity stations where you may jump rope, throw bean bags or join a relay race.

This event is free for the community and Hershey’s hopes to stress the importance of youth activity and living a balanced lifestyle while having fun. I’ll be on-site to help guide you and your kids to a fun evening of games and activities. Get all the details of the event and access to a RUN, JUMP and THROW Online Birthday Guide at www. Hersheystrackandfield.com.

Find an event in your area and RUN, JUMP and THROW with your own kids.

I am partnering with Hershey’s on this event




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.

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.




Monster Jam Philadelphia Ticket Giveaway

monster jam philadelphia

Something happened last year that got Shaun and Rob really into Monster Trucks. They went to 2 shows last year, one already this year and have another 2 on the schedule. It’s a different kind of sport that they are used to. Instead of 2 teams battling each other the drivers are trying their best to just finish in one piece.

Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA, June 9, 2012


USHRA Monster Trucks including Grave Digger® driven by Dennis Anderson, Maximum Destruction® driven by Tom Meents, Advance Auto Parts Grinder℠, Lucas Oil Crusader℠, Monster Energy, Captain America, El Toro Loco®, Team Hot Wheels®, Iron Man, Grave Digger The Legend®, Madusa®, Monster Mutt®, Mohawk Warrior℠, Spider-Man, Wolverine, and Metal Mulisha!

Win a 4-pack of tickets to the Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam Path of Destruction, June 9th performance at Lincoln Financial Field. Just leave a comment with the truck you’re looking forward to seeing.

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
  • Like Monster Jam and LookWhatMomFound…and Dad too! on Facebook
  • Follow Mom & Dad & Monster Jam on Twitter and Tweet this giveaway (1 time per day), please leave your twitter link each time, tweet a form of this message: Win 4-tickets to @MonsterJam #Philadelphia #Giveaway from @lkwhtmomfound @anddadtoo http://bit.ly/IYqGr8 
  • 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/Everyday Life/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, Friday, May 25, 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.

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Sesame Street Live coming to Philadelphia plus giveaway

I wish Shae was a touch younger so we could still enjoy Sesame Street Live.  Last year’s show was a lot of fun but this year Sesame Street Live 1-2-3 IMAGINE! WITH ELMO AND FRIENDS is looking to be a whole new kind of fun. Join the excitement with Elmo’s friends Abby Cadaby, Oscar the Grouch, Ernie, Rosita, Count Von Count and more!

discount code "MOM"

Imagine singing and dancing with Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and all your favorite Sesame Street Live friends!  It’s as easy as counting “1-2-3 … Imagine!” This high-energy musical will transport audiences to far away places as Ernie captains the high seas, Elmo dances to the rhythm of the African rainforest and Bert meets an octopus who has the blues.  It’s a story of adventure and fun that teaches children they can be anyone, do anything and go anywhere with the power of imagination.

Purchase tickets now using discount code “MOM” for $5 off ticket prices. Additional service charges, processing and handling fees may apply.  Does not include the Venue Facility fee. Cannot be combined with any other offer and cannot be used towards previously purchased tickets. Valid for all shows except Friday, March 16 at 7 p.m.

Enter to win to see 1-2-3 Imagine with Elmo and Friends in the Philadelphia area.  We have (2) 4-packs of ticket vouchers to giveaway.

Liacouras Center at Temple University

Thursday, March 15 – Sunday, March 18

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