10 Reasons Why Jungle Junction is the BEST Indoor Playground

June 3, 2016May 20, 2018momonthegoinholytoledo

We made the most of our 1^st day of summer break and took a short road trip to Bellevue, Ohio home of Ohio’s largest indoor playground, Jungle Junction!

Bellevue, Ohio is roughly an hour and ten minutes from Toledo, (give or take a construction barrel or two), and totally worth every minute of travel time. Directions were pretty straight forward until the last 3 minutes of our journey. I will warn you that it is a little tricky to locate at first. In fact, full disclosure, I drove past it twice! The address is 101 Cherry Blvd and Jungle Junction shares an address with a few other buildings/facilities including the pool. (FYI; if you enter the residential neighborhood you have gone too far). When you pull into the drive you want to veer left towards the pool, drive past the pool, and continue veering left and you will see the big brown/tan building that is Jungle Junction. Park, enter, and be prepared to be blown away by all the amazing features found in the Jungle for both parents and kiddos!

As you enter you are welcomed by the mammoth size of the structure as well as the smiling faces behind the counter. And this is the first stop in the Jungle that will blow parents minds, (you might want to sit down for this one) the cost of admission is only $5 per child for unlimited play!! All 3 of my kiddos got in for less than $20! I don’t know of any indoor playground structure that has an awesome bargain like that around our neck of the woods. But wait, it gets better…..

10 Reasons Why Jungle Junction is the BEST Indoor Playground

1.Cost of admission is unbeatable! Just $5 per child for unlimited play….ditch those shoes & enter the Jungle!

2. Six levels of adventure with over 60 play features including slides, air cannons, obstacle courses, and interactive game panels to keep kids entertained and challenged for hours

3. A dedicated toddler tumble zone with molded jungle friends for climbing, crawling and sliding the day away

4. Jungle Junction has free Wi-Fi for parents, just inquire about the password.

5. Clean restrooms with no automatic flushers or loud hand dryers (this is a BIG win for us mommas with kiddos who have sensory issues). Speaking of sensory issues, there is talk about them have a few mornings a month open for special needs/kiddos with sensory issues when they will turn off the loud cannons that shoot bursts of air…make certain you like their Facebook Page to stay updated on all special events/hours

6. Little kids potty in the restrooms for the tiniest of potty goers & changing stations in both women and men’s restrooms

7. Something for every AGE- Table & chairs where parents/older kiddos can sit and use Wi-Fi, Toddler area, and area for big kids….it is hard to find a place that can accommodate a family with large age gaps, Jungle Junction for the ultimate WIN!

8. Vending Machines available with cold beverages and snacks (no outdoor food allowed but you can pack a picnic and enjoy your meal at one of the sheltered picnic tables located within walking distance from Jungle Junction)

9. Parents can go in the structure, (just make certain your bring your socks)so you don’t have to worry about little ones maneuvering the structure solo or getting stuck somewhere…nothing worse than trying to navigate your crying 4 year old down from a structure while you’re on the outside looking up

10. Controlled environment will keep you cool in the summer and warm when the weather turns cold and wet.

Deets:

Address: 110 Cherry Blvd. Bellevue, Ohio 44881

Hours: Mon-Thurs 10am-7pm, Fri-Sat. 10am-8pm & Sundays 12pm-7pm

Cost: $6 per child, unlimited play

Ages: Toddlers-12 years of age

Socks are a must! (Available for purchase $2.50)

Changing Areas: YES

Toddler Area: YES

Phone Number: 419.484.5532

Website: http://www.junglejunctionplay.com

Ziplining & Feeding Giraffes in Toledo

June 2, 2016June 2, 2016momonthegoinholytoledo

As if you needed an excuse to visit the #1 US Zoo based on USA Today’s Readers’ Choice, the Toledo Zoo! That catchy little tune you hear playing as you make your way across the bridge over the Anthony Wayne Trail is 100% correct, We Love Our Zoo! And now there is so much more to love! In addition to last year’s mind blowing openings of the Aquarium, Penguin Beach, & Splash pad this year the Toledo Zoo has done it again with Expedition Africa and Tower Ridge Giraffe experience. You can now add zip lining, an aerial adventure course, and feeding giraffes to your already awesome Zoo adventures (and here the kiddos thought it couldn’t get any better than Nature Neighborhood, the Touch Tanks in the Aquarium & the Splash Pad).

What is Expedition Africa?

Expedition Africa is located in the Africa! Exhibit at the Zoo and it is an Aerial Adventure Course. It consist of a variety of activities including, a Challenge course, Zipline, and (coming soon) Quick Drop.

Challenge Course– Test your stamina as you traverse across the Africa! exhibit. Tackle a series of obstacles designed to challenge guests both mentally and physically, including rope bridges, swinging log crossings, horizontal climbing walls, zip line, and much more. (For guests 12 years old or older, Minimum 90lbs and maximum 250lbs) $30 per participant
Zipline-This thrilling and unique experience will start you off at 80 feet above the Africa! exhibit and coast over 760 feet across Giraffe, Watusi Cattle, Wildebeest and more. (For guests 12 years old or older, Minimum 90lbs and maximum 250lbs) $20 per participant
Quick Drop– Take a quick and thrilling 30 foot jump off of the Expedition Africa! Aerial Adventure Course main tower on a controlled descend device that guides you back to the Africa! overlook deck. (For guests 8 years old and up, Minimum 50lbs and maximum 250lbs) $10 per participant
Added bonus: Sky Bridge– Take in the scenery of Africa! with this simple excursion across three sturdy footbridges. Each bridge is 250 feet long and separated by an overlook platform elevated thirty feet above the Africa! exhibit. What a view! (For guests 8 years old and up, Minimum 50lbs and maximum 250lbs) $10 per participant

I opted for the Zip line as opposed to the Challenge Course due to time constraint (Challenge Course takes up to two hours while the Zip line only takes an hour). The zip line includes the awesome Sky Bridge and I was able to view the Challenge Course along the way which I am totally coming back to complete at a later date. And I decided to capture my journey via a GoPro Camera.

Get this; they have GoPro Cameras available if you would like to document your experience. The GoPro Camera equipment is rented and secured to your helmet. After completing the course I was given a memory card with the footage on it. ($29.99 per participant for Zoo Members & $33.99 per participant for Non-Members)

I had an absolute blast! The Sky Bridge was tranquil, beautiful; I have never felt more one with the environment. At the end of the Sky Bridge I began my journey up the stairs to the Zip line tower, with each step my adrenaline increased, until I was at the top and totally weak in the knees. Then the moment I had been waiting for, gliding across the Africa exhibits was unlike anything I had ever experienced before, the wind beating against my face, the humming of the zip line, and this feeling of awe swept over me, I didn’t feel like I was in Toledo anymore. Checkout my journey……

The only problem with the Zip line is that once you have done it once you will want to do it again! I think this is a fabulous inclusion to the Zoo; it is nice that there is something for the older kiddos to do after they have graduated from the Splash Pad and Natures Neighborhood.

While I Zip lined my munchkin and her Nana road the train and carousel, both located in the Africa! Exhibit, then we met up in the Tower Ridge Giraffe Experience line to feed the Giraffes.

So,I kinda pride myself in being as transparent and honest as possible and I will be truthful in stating that at first, after paying our $4 for giraffe food, and waiting for what seemed like an eternity (which was probably more like 5 minutes, if that) for the giraffes to walk over I started to think that perhaps this experience wasn’t worth the money or time.

Then it happened, the Giraffes made their way over to us and my heart skipped a beat, they are such majestic, serene creatures, and so gentle. It was an amazing experience. Moral of the story, the experience was totally worth the money and time, just be patient (which can be extra hard on the young, hot, and/or cranky, lol!).

And then our time was up and we had to bid adieu to Africa! Or should I say…..

What is your favorite animal /exhibit at the zoo?

LEGO + Stationery= Boredom Buster

May 28, 2016May 28, 2016momonthegoinholytoledo

Summer break means road trips, long days outdoors, swimming, family vacation, running through the sprinkler, grilling, flip flops, Slip N Slide, popsicles, sidewalk chalk, chasing fireflies, s’mores, etc. And let’s be honest, it wouldn’t be summer break without the occasional vocal complaint, “I’m bored”. So I am on the hunt for fun toys, trinkets, educational items, etc. to help them combat their boredom (more info coming soon…two words, Busy Bags!) and I came across LEGO Stationary!

Santoki, LLC introduced LEGO Stationery! #LEGOStationery

This one-of-a-kind product consists of an assortment of buildable school supplies that use LEGO elements and all work together as a system.

The collection includes a colorful assortment of pencils, erasers, pens, markers, journals, organizers and buildable rulers. What’s so cool about the product is that kiddos can build on the products and create something while learning!

These look so cool, I can’t reisist, and I think my kiddos will totally have their boredom busted by this! I will keep y’all posted and share my thoughts once it arrives.

FYI- If anyone happens to be attending LEGO KidsFest in Louisville, you’ll also be able to try them out at the show: Santoki has an activity area devoted to playing and coloring with the product line.

LEGO Stationery is available at Barnes & Noble, LEGOLAND California Resort, Legoland Florida Resort, all LEGO Discovery Centers, Amazon, and Boxed Lunch!

Get more details here http://www.santoki.com/products/stationery/writing

3 Tips Every Mom Should Know To Get Awesome Photos of their Kids

May 26, 2016May 26, 2016momonthegoinholytoledo

Have you ever tried to capture a moment for your family on camera and it just wasn’t working? The sun was in everyone’s eyes or there were just too many people around? It was after I had my second child that I grew tired of constant blurry photos and missed moments of my kids because I was fumbling with my camera. I was determined that I would learn how to take better images of them. After years of determination and practice, I can say I have accomplished that! If you are getting frustrated with your snapshots too, here are 3 tips that can help you to take better photos of your kids on your next adventure outing.

1. Look for light.

Light has the power to transform an image and can turn everyday moments in something more extraordinary. The light around you is constantly changing based on a number of things like your location and time of day. Harsh and bright mid day sun is usually super difficult to photograph people in, while light in the morning and evening will be softer. A lot of the fun activities we do with my kids happens at times of day that are not ideal to photograph in, but finding spots of shade or making sure the sun is behind them can help yield a better image. Also, if you can’t escape harsh light, have your kiddo put on sunglasses. They will look like a mini rock star and you won’t get tons of images of them squinting at the camera.

A few different lighting situations. In the top two images, the light was super bright. Having my daughter wear sunglasses and focusing on the shadows instead allowed me to still capture the moment while working with the light that was available. The soft, diffused light in the aquarium gave that image a more magical feeling.

2. Clean up the background.

We don’t have much control of what is happening around us in public but you can decide what you include in your photos. Cars, random strangers and ugly buildings are just some things to look out for while capturing your family’s memories. Really taking a minute to scan the background can save you some frustration later wishing that adorable photo you took of your kid smiling from ear to ear wasn’t overshadowed by all the people in the background. One of my favorite ways to minimize the background of an image is to come in closer to my subject. You can also try to shoot your subject from above (think standing on your tippy toes while they are sitting on the ground) or having your image vertical instead of horizontal. Paying more attention to the backgrounds around you and shooting around any distracting elements really allows your children to be the focus of your photos.

(2) Family Photographer Toledo Background

These were both taken in relatively crowded areas. Shooting slightly above my subject allowed the focus of the image to be more about them and less about the other people that were there.

3. Tell the Story

Did you know we read photographs much the same way we read written words? Our minds like to fill in the narrative points of “who”, “what”, “when”, “where” and “how”. You can include these elements in photos to give them a strong story too. While you are taking your images, think of these points and then capture them. Focusing on the big picture with a wide shot will give you the “where” and coming in close for a shot of the details will fill in the “what”. Also, be sure to include natural moments when your kid is truly being themselves. Showcasing their personality will really bring out the “who”. Not every element will be in every photo but making a conscience effort to include more specifics about what is going on will be a great reminder later when years have passed and you can jump right back into that moment with your kids while reminiscing through your photo albums.

(4) Lifestyle Photography Toeldo Ohio

These images can answer multiple elements of a story. They tell us the “who”, “what”, “where”, “how” or “why” while focusing on natural moments of my kids.

So next time you are out playing momaraizzi with your kiddos, be sure to remember these 3 tips to help you rock your snapshots! Want more help? Sign up for my newsletter for even more photography tips, including information on an upcoming momaraizzi 101 photo class.

Bio and Links

Cynthia Dawson is a Toledo Ohio Newborn and Family Photographer specializing in lifestyle and emotive storytelling portraiture. She strives to capture the nostalgia of childhood with her photographs. Her style is storied, sentimental and emotionally intimate while still retaining the technical prowess and artistic originality of gallery quality images. Simply put, she transforms lifestyle photography into fine art for your family.

Website – http://www.cynthiadawson.com

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/CynthiaDawsonPhotography

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cynthiadawson/

10 Reasons Why Maumee Bay State Park Lodge is the Perfect Family Getaway (Stays for A’s)

May 9, 2016June 15, 2022momonthegoinholytoledo

Whether you are looking for a fun family vacation, the perfect destination for a reunion with family and/or friends, or simply a day away from the mundane Maumee Bay State Park Lodge has all the amenities necessary to provide a custom-catered experience. There is literally something for everyone, the fitness gurus, naturalists, the bookworm; those looking to jam-pack their day with activities, and those who prefer a more leisure experience. Here is a list of the

10 Reasons Why Maumee Bay State Park Lodge is the Perfect Family Getaway

Boardwalk– This is hands down my children’s (ages 5-10) favorite activity! They enjoy exploring, investigating, and observing all the swamp and marsh has to offer from the comforts of the boardwalk including, snakes, frogs, fish, birds, deer, raccoons, different habitats, butterflies etc. This is one nature walk that involves a lot of observing to keep your eyes peeled! The easy, two-mile Interpretive Boardwalk trail traverses swamp and marsh wetlands and has interpretive signs, an observation blind and tower. The boardwalk is wheelchair accessible. Additionally, the park offers two multi-use trails for walking, jogging, or biking: Trail – 6 Miles – Easy & Mouse Trail – 3 Miles – Easy
Nature Center– Trautman Nature Center is equipped with inter-active displays, a programming auditorium, research laboratory and viewing windows. It is a state-of-the-art nature center staffed by a year-round naturalist. The boardwalk trail is adjacent to the nature center. Stop in for a visit before heading to the boardwalk so that you can learn about some of the habitats and wildlife that you will see on your boardwalk adventure!
Swimming– Maumee Bay State Park Lodge & Resort offers your family the opportunity to swim year round! There is something absolutely breathtaking about looking outdoors and seeing inches of snow & large flakes falling while enjoying the warmth comfort, and pure fun the indoor pool offers. The indoor pool area also features kid-friendly splash park fixtures & whirlpools. You can also enjoy the seasonal swimming areas…outdoor pool & 2 beaches.
Seasonal fun– Fishing, golfing, boating (rent a paddleboat or canoe), biking (no room for your bikes, no worries, you can rent bikes at the Bay), skiing (rentals available for cross-country skiing), sledding down the top-rated big hill, ice skating (rentals available), swimming in the outdoor pool, you name and Maumee Bay State Park probably offers it! (Hunting is permitted in adjacent Mallard Club Marsh Wildlife Area. A valid Ohio hunting license is required).
Little Kid Space & Arcade– looking for some additional family fun or perhaps an opportunity to give mom & dad a break? (Mom & dad hit up the kiosk near the Water’s Edge Restaurant for a caffeinated beverage to enjoy while watching the little ones run off that excess energy) The little ones can enjoy the soft play area (for children 42” or shorter) with a pirate ship, they will have a whale of a tail of fun! While the big kids will enjoy all the fun to be had in the games & arcade area…also fun for the kids at heart.
Courts– Game on! Enjoy a little friendly competition with your family/friends or invite other guest to join in the fun at one of the courts, volleyball, wallyball, racket ball, horseshoe, shuffleboard, lighted tennis, and/or basketball.
Food– Pack Picnic- picnic areas with tables and grills can be found adjacent to the beach areas. Water’s Edge Restaurant, take in a breathtaking wraparound view of Lake Erie while enjoying a delicious culinary cuisine (Beer & Wine list is available). The menu offers something for everyone and kid friendly options too. Allow all your senses to be enveloped by the experience. (And their Sunday Brunch is AH-mazing!) Icebreaker Lounge– provides a relaxing nautical theme while you enjoy your favorite drink or a lighter meal with the family…fun atmosphere, music, pool table, and kids menu available. Bayside Snack Shop (seasonal)-perfect place to grab a quick bite to eat before or after a day spent in the great outdoors, includes a delicious menu featuring juicy burgers, hot French fries, tempting frozen treats and thirst-quenching beverages, the Bayside Snack Shop is a popular stop for families. Pro-shop Concessions– Whether you’re preparing to tee off, making the turn, or ready for the 19th hole, the concession stand at the Maumee Bay Pro Shop has you covered. Hot dogs, chips, ice-cold beverages and beer are waiting for you when you’re ready for a break.
Fireplaces– wind down an unbelievable day with the beckoning crackle, warmth, and relaxation from one of Maumee Bay Lodge’s beautiful fireplaces. Enjoy the company of family and friends, share stories, play board games (several family-friendly games are available for complimentary use from the front desk), or cozy up to a great book (there is a free lending library in the main lobby).
Entertainment- On selected dates from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the park’s Amphitheater features Saturday night entertainment. These events are free to the public and can include musical groups, magicians and more. All events start at 7:00PM. There are also movies running periodically in the lobby area, all rooms have cable, and be sure to check out the list of events going on when you arrive!
Gift Shop & the amazing people who work at Maumee Bay Lodge– The kiddos absolutely adore the gift shop, there is such a lovely variety of items for children at various price points (so they can spend all $5 dollars they saved up) adults, birders, naturalist, wine aficionados, etc. And the Lodge would not be the amazing place it is without the AWESOME people who work there! Do stop at the front desk, ask your questions, inquire about activities going on, etc. It is the kind, compassionate, welcoming, and enthusiastic individuals who work at the Lodge; from the front desk, landscaping, the naturalist, housekeeping, waitresses, gift shop employees, etc. that make you feel like an extension of the Maumee Bay Lodge family that will make it hard to leave and in anticipation for your return.

And there is so much more…geocaching, massages, NEW playground, birdwatching, Storybook Trail, etc. Plan your adventure today!!!

Stays for A’s

Congratulations on a job well done! For every “A” a student receives on his or her report card, Maumee Bay Lodge will discount $10* off the Best Available room rate for up to five (5) A’s.

Stays for A’s book HERE

20 Kid Approved Ohio Destinations

April 16, 2016October 23, 2017momonthegoinholytoledo

The kiddos put together a list of their favorite Ohio destinations we have visited. The following destinations are fun family friendly destinations that were of particular interest to children ages 2-11 years of age & us kids at heart too! (Tip: When purchasing tickets for admission inquire about discounts, AAA, reciprocity, etc. We were able to get admission FREE at some of these thanks to our local memberships)

Campbell’s Sweets Factory Tour (Cleveland…pair this one with #16 for an awesome day trip)
Spangler Factory and Museum (Bryan…pair this one with #4 for an awesome day trip)
Imagination Station (Toledo…pair this one with #18 for an awesome day trip) )
Imagination Kingdom (Wauseon…pair this one with #2 for an awesome day trip)
Sauder’s Village (Archbold)
Castle (Loveland)
Newport Aquarium (technically it’s in Kentucky but it is so close to Cincinnati)
COSI (Columbus)
Maumee Bay State Park & Lodge (Oregon Ohio)
Armstrong Air & Space Museum (Wapakoneta)
Young’s Jersey Dairy (Dayton…pair this one with #20 and/or #12 for an awesome day trip)
National Museum of the U. S. Air Force (Dayton…pair this one with #11 and/or #20 for an awesome day trip)
African Safari Wildlife Park (Port Clinton)
Cedar Point (Sandusky)
Kalahari (Sandusky)
Christmas Story House Tour (Cleveland…pair this one with #1 for an awesome day trip)
Kings Island (Cincinnati)
Toledo Museum of Art’s Family Center (Toledo…pair this one with #3 for an awesome day trip)
Toledo Zoo Aquarium (Toledo)
Boonshoft Museum (Dayton…pair this one with #11 and/or #12 for an awesome day trip)

Have some great memories of visiting an Ohio destination with your family? Do own/work at a must visit Ohio destination? Please share! As stated, we are currently working on our summer bucket list; we would love to hear your recommendations.

Campbell’s Sweets Factory Tour

April 7, 2016momonthegoinholytoledo

Our latest trip to Cleveland was hands down the best so far!

It included an awesome, informative, & highly delicious tour of the Campbell’s Sweets Factory. Campbell’s Sweets Factory sells savory and sweet treats including, but not limited to, various gourmet popcorns, chocolates, cupcakes, etc.

Brief History…..

Campbell’s Sweets’ heritage spans four decades of candy making excellence, beginning Amos “Jupie” Campbell’s famous Karmelkorn®. Amos started the sweet journey when he opened highly profitable Karmelkorn franchise shops in four mall locations and a plaza store.

In 2004, Jeff (Amos’ son) and wife, Lynn opened Campbell’s Popcorn Shop in Cleveland’s historic West Side Market. At that time, they, along with two of their daughters, Holly and Bethany, launched their business with only a microwave, bowls, cooking utensils and some raw products. With a lot of hard work, sweat equity and integrity they have seen their business grow and flourish. source

Tour time….

We began our tour next to a huge popcorn machine where we learned a bit about the history of popcorn, the different types of kernels, and why certain kernels are used for caramel & heavier flavoring. I have to be honest, I was highly impressed at how captivating the information was, my kiddos listened so intently.

And then the fun really began, they turned on the popcorn machine & it started popping!! The machine produced a catchy beat with the popping of each kernel, suddenly a stream of popcorn came pouring out, and the magnificent aroma of freshly popped popcorn enveloped the space. There is nothing on this Earth that compares to the comforting aroma of freshly popped popcorn except maybe tasting freshly popped popcorn! And it tasted amazing!

It was so warm, fresh, and the texture was perfect, though the taste was a bit bland but not for long, next step, caramel!

Ever wonder why they use the copper kettles? Turns out it is because the copper stays hotter much longer than stainless, which means the caramel won’t harden. That was just one of many nuggets of wisdom shared during our tour.

After mixing the popcorn and caramel together we paused for a quick sampling and then formed popcorn balls. He used a handy little tool, in fact we counted as he made them, and in one minute he made 30!! Far faster, convenient, and efficient than forming them by hand, I kinda wish they sold that nifty little tool.

After the caramel popcorn balls were formed a stick was then placed in each and a popcorn ball on a stick was distributed to each tour attendee.

Then the final step because what’s better than a caramel popcorn ball on a stick? A caramel popcorn ball on a stick dipped in chocolate!! We were all winners that day! Each person dipped their own popcorn ball in the chocolate and while the chocolate cooled we shopped!

Get this; the tour cost $5 a person, $5 that you get back in Campbell’s bucks to spend in the shop at the end of the tour!

So not only did we get to go home with the caramel popcorn balls dipped in chocolate that we watched and participated in making but we also went home with some gourmet popcorn too! It was so difficult deciding which flavor to bring home, CLICK HERE to see their menu and see that the struggle was real! Ha-ha!

Touring Campbell’s Sweets Factory was such a fun, unique, informative, and delicious family experience.

Details…

Campbell’s Sweets Factory is located at 2084 W. 25th St. Cleveland, OH 44113

Hours:

Monday- Thursday: 10am-7pm

Friday & Saturday: 9am-7pm

Are you ready to schedule a tasty tour of Campbell’s Sweets Factory?

Call (216) 965-0451 today

Add to the fun….

Now you can visit Campbell’s as a destination on The Euclid Beach Boys’ famous Rocket Ship Car or Thriller Car!

For more information, visit http://www.theeuclidbeachboys.com and click on the “Ride & Dine Ohio” link. You can also email them at euclidbeachboys@aol.com to schedule your Rocket Ship Car or Thriller Car Ride & Dine Tour to Campbell’s Sweets.

For more information, call 440-460-0565

While you are in Cleveland be sure to stop by the gorgeous West Side Market for lunch or simply a cup of Joe!

Additional Fun Family Friendly destinations in Cleveland:

A Christmas Story House Tour: A Journey back to Childhood

Childrens Activities Around Cleveland

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Cleveland

15 Cleveland Kid-Friendly Restaurants for Parents to Eat Out and (Most Importantly) Drink

5 Tips for Packing Healthy Lunches your kids will actually eat!

April 5, 2016April 12, 2016momonthegoinholytoledo

Whether you are packing lunches for school, a road trip, a picnic in the park, or a fun filled day at the zoo the struggle is the same & very real! Getting your children to eat healthy is like trying to rearrange the stripes on a Zebra!

Educate– Educate the kiddos on nutritious foods!! If at all possible take the kiddos with you to the store. Teach them how to read food labels:

Simplicity is your best friend here. Focus on products with short, pronounceable ingredients and look for these labels: organic, antibiotic-free, non-GMO!

Look out for sodium. Small amounts of sodium are necessary for keeping proper body fluid balance but too much can contribute to high blood pressure. Almost all foods naturally contain small amounts of sodium but many processed foods contain greater amounts.

Watch the sugar content! Fruits naturally contain simple sugars but also contain fiber, water, and vitamins, which make them a healthy choice. Snack foods, candy and soda, on the other hand, often have large amounts of added sugars. And when it comes to drinks, water is the best option.

Select foods high in protein. The body, muscles, skin, and the immune system are made up of protein. Foods high in protein include eggs, meat, poultry, fish, milk, cheese, yogurt, nuts, soybeans, and dried beans. Anywhere from 10 percent to 20 percent of the calories that kids consume each day should come from protein.

Want some help?

Take the kiddos to Imagination Station’s Eat it Up! Exhibit! It is the perfect & fun way to help educate your kiddos on nutrition!

Also, check out Heather Stouffer, CEO of Mom Made Foods, she is a huge advocate of watching food labels…watch her video ‘5 tips for reading food labels’ HERE .

Kids Pick– Let the children select the food they enjoy. Bottom line, if you pack broccoli and your son hates it, he won’t eat it. Let your kids weigh in on what they want to pack in their lunches, and offer them a few healthy choices so they feel like they’re in control.

Think Outside the Sandwich! – A sandwich is not a requirement for a lunch, think outside the sandwich! Try turkey and cheese roll-ups, sushi, meatballs, deviled eggs, veggies or fruit with dipping sauce (hummus, peanut butter, ranch, etc.)

Portion control- Double check the nutrition labels and make certain children are only consuming one serving size, if not less, most serving sizes are for adults, not children. Some company’s do offer a child size, like Stonyfield, the adult size has 23 grams of sugar and the children’s size has half the amount. It is vital that children watch their portion sizes.

Bacteria & Germs – Be safe. Pack lunches properly to ensure food safety and freshness. Invest in a reusable ice-pack; Rubbermaid makes this awesome blue ice that keeps ALL containers cool.

Always wash their hands before she eats.

Heed these 5 tips and watch the magic happen!

What is your biggest issue with kids lunches?

A Christmas Story House Tour: A Journey back to Childhood

March 30, 2016momonthegoinholytoledo

As we turned onto W. 11^th Street in Cleveland, Ohio it seemed like any ordinary street, in any ordinary neighborhood, and then we saw it, that house with the green trim that was unmistakably the Parker residence from the movie, A Christmas Story.

And it was then that my anticipation level skyrocketed! It is fascinating how a mere glance at the house can stir up so many emotions. I was suddenly transported back to my own childhood; the emotions conjured up fond memories & feelings of Christmas pasts. I was literally just like one of the kids as we raced into the gift shop to purchase our tour tickets.

And just like one of the kids, it felt like I waited for an eternity for our tour to begin, (when in all actuality it was only like 10 minutes, haha!). When the tour finally began it took everything in me to restrain myself from being the first one in line. I did manage to gathering up enough restraint to allow the shorter children to go in front of me, which was a huge hurdle, guess who was rewarded for her good behavior afterward in the gift shop?

As we entered the house my inner childlike spirit had a mini spaz attack, it was spot on from the scenes in the movie! I did manage to maintain composure on the outside, well almost, I wanted to touch everything! And guess what? You can (technically, everything in all but one room)!!! When I heard that my adult self & inner child collided, giving one another a virtual high five, yippee!! Let the fun begin!!!

We were able to pick up “The Old Man’s” award, sit on Ralphie and Randy’s beds, we reenact a few scenes from the movie, and more!

We also learned a lot about the history of the movie, characters, actors, etc., like the fact that the year they filmed the movie Cleveland didn’t receive any snow so they did whatever they could to make snow….queue the foam!

And that the actress who played the school teacher was pregnant when they filmed and she didn’t want to go too far from her in Canada where there just so happened to have a lot of snow so they filmed the other scenes in Canada. There is much more but you’ll have to take the tour yourself to hear those nuggets of trivia.

After touring the house and the museum (image above shows actual toys that were in the movie) it was time to reward that inner child, and my actual children with a trip to the gift shop.

There were so many magnificent souvenirs to choose from and all children were pleased except for one, my son. He so desperately wanted a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle, just like Ralphie’s. I entertained the idea for a moment, then culminated the day with a rather appropriate decision and infamous quote, one I am surprised my son didn’t see coming. No, because, “You’ll shoot your eye out.”

You too can deny your child a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle and allow your inner child to come out and play at A Christmas Story House open 7 days a week (except major holidays), 10am-5pm. Cost, Adults: $10.00 Children 7 to 12: $6.00 (Children 6 & under: FREE) Seniors: $8.00 For more information click here .

What is your favorite scene from the movie?

The children are asleep; you are watching television when suddenly someone starts kicking in your front door…what do you do? Are you prepared for a home invasion?

March 12, 2016May 30, 2021momonthegoinholytoledo

What comes to mind when you hear the words ‘Home Invasion’? When I hear the words ‘Home Invasion’ I think of Primetime television sensationalizing scenarios in order to boost ratings, that blockbuster, Panic Room, with Jodie Foster, and the rare story you hear about on the evening news. It is something that happens in Hollywood scripts and to other people, not me. That is until I came across some startling statistics that rocked my naïve world.

Did you know…

An estimated 3.7 million household burglaries occurred each year on average.
Around 60 percent of burglars used forcible entry to gain access to a home.
33 percent of intruders enter a home through the front door. (Hollow doors are exceptionally easy to kick in).
Bureau of Justice Statistics Special Report states that a household member was home in approximately 28 percent of burglaries. Alarmingly, a household member suffered some form of violence in seven percent of burglaries. (source)
Drugs – both illegal and prescription – are a driving force behind many of today’s burglaries and home invasions.
As reported by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), “drug use and criminality are closely linked.” According to the National Association of Drug Court Professionals (NADCP), of the inmates housed in U.S. jails and prisons: Over 80% have a history of drug and/or alcohol abuse. Approximately 50% are addicted to some form of drug. Approximately 60% of suspects arrested for a crime test positive for illegal drugs. Upon release, up to 80% of drug abusers commit another drug-driven crime. Approximately 95% of inmates that get released from jail or prison resume their drug use. (source)
An estimated 10,000 people in the NW Ohio region are addicted to heroin and other opioids. (source)

These statistics shook me to my core!! What if we did have a home invasion, how would I handle it? How would I protect not just myself, but my children too? I have to be honest; this momma bear was ill equipped for protecting her cubs in the case of a home invasion. That is until I attended this month’s Ladies Night Out’s Personal Safety Awareness Training!!

A basic synopsis of the class offered at Cleland’s Outdoor World ….

Personal Safety Awareness Training

Discuss how to take a pro-active approach to personal safety. The class begins by focusing on planning for known and unknown surroundings, situational awareness, and non-violent and non-physical methods to protect yourself. The class then explores how to deal with conflicts and confrontations, including techniques and products available to safely remove yourself from a dangerous situation.

Topics that are covered include:

Awareness

Mindset

Planning

Self-defense products including sprays/gels; stun guns; Tasers; flashlights.

And other options to help keep you and your loved ones safe.

This class is dedicated to teaching individuals of all ages and genders how to avoid being a victim in the home, at work, at school or in every day travels.

http://www.clelands.com/non-lethal-self-defense/

The class was a great refresher for some scenarios and very informative in others, particularly home invasion. I liked the fact that the instructor wasn’t trying to instill fear in us but rather to educate and build our confidence so that we would be prepared for any situation. She really ran home the idea of having a PLAN! Do you have a plan? Here is a scenario she gave us…it is late Sunday night, you just put kiddos to bed, you’re sitting down on the couch watching television, and suddenly someone starts kicking in your front door what would you do? This one stumped all of us moms because quite honestly we all let our guards down once we are inside the comforts of our homes. What evolved was a great discussion.

We addressed the fact that we spend so much time talking about fire safety with our children, in school, in scouts, we have a plan if there is ever a fire in our home, etc. And we talk to our children about stranger danger and run scenarios about what they should do if they ever get lost. But we never discuss the possibility of a home invasion, why? Well, because, quite honestly, we don’t want to scare the crap out of them! We just got them all sleeping in their own beds and we would like to keep it that way, right!? At least that was my thinking and then I realized I was doing them a disservice. I am their parent and I am responsible for keeping them safe, safe from everything, and sometimes that means not sheltering them as much, and educating them on some of the realities of life (in an age appropriate manner).

The day after I attended the training I sat my kiddos down and we had a discussion. I am happy to announce that we now have a plan! We decided on a safe room, an alert word, and I even have a safety tool (the instructor made it clear that they are tools for maintaining safety…the various tools she educated us on included…pepper spray, stun gun, & Taser).

Thanks to the training and our plan I am sleeping better than ever at night. If you don’t have a plan I highly recommend you have a family meeting and come up with a plan because your family’s safety is the most important thing in this world!

If you have noticed someone you know has suddenly gotten involved in illegal activities it might be because of some type of alcohol or drug addiction. The statistics above clearly show there is a worrying correlation between addiction and crime. Luckily there are many places that are willing to help. Consider enrolling your friend or family member in an Nj drug rehab center in order to help them get their life back on track before it’s too late.

Here are some great resources I came across….

21 Cheap And Effective Tricks To Keep Your Home Safe

How Thieves Use Social Media To Rob You

These 32 Rooms May Seem Normal At First… Til You Find Their Hidden Secrets. Then They’re GENIUS.

5 Tips For Preparing A Defense Against Home Invasion