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Toy Fair 2014: Day 1

February 17, 2014February 17, 2014 by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

As I gear up for Day 2 of Toy Fair, I thought I’d share some preliminary thoughts of Day 1 of #TF14.

Sunday is typically one of my favorite days of the International Toy Fair, dubbed the largest trade show for toys in the western hemisphere. There’s something like seven football fields worth of toys and games, and like always, I have a lot of ground to cover. But on the first day, there’s that sense of newness and exciting energy. All of the exhibitors seem to be fresh-faced and newly rehearsed on their spiels, sharing the kind of knowledge that I simply thrive upon.

I started day one bright and early with a blogger breakfast with one of my all time favorites: Spinmaster. The brains behind some mega hits, Spinmaster is involved in a whole host of hot properties and brands that make kids go wheee! LIke the best in the business, they have a whole team dedicated to media relations, several who focus solely on blogger interaction. Needless to say, it was great having that one-on-one time with the smart people who can give us the best insight on their latest wares. I loved the way they had their event set up. Each table had a brand manager or designer who talked us through several of the toys they were highlighting. I’ll give an in-depth look at the toys they chatted about, we got a good look at the super cool Paw Patrol toys. This Nickelodeon show and Spinmaster property is a huge—and I mean HUGE —hit with preschoolers. The rescue pups who herald bravery and heroism from their service work will have their very own toys hitting the shelves this summer. We had a look at the firetruck and smaller characters, and I have to say, I know they’ll be a big hit with preschoolers.

I had a great look at what’s new with Flutterbye Fairies, Tenkai Knights, Boomer the dino, new Spinmaster games and an interesting interactive doll named Gabby.

The show started off with Alicia Keys cutting the ribbon and saying a few words to the Toy Fair crowd. It was the biggest crowd I’d ever seen for the opening ceremony for ToyFair, perhaps thanks to the celeb aspect.

I have a systematic game plan when walking this trade show. Since this site encompasses new and notable products for babies to big kids, I have particular interest in seeking out small companies who have great ideas. It’s all about getting new products into the right people’s hands, whether it’s the media, buyers or other industry professionals.

I loved these tooth pillows I found at SuperFly, and all the fun superhero accessories. This was their first showing at TF, but they right away caught my attention with their bright colors, genuine conversation and great products.

These drink holders, I thought were really cool. Another new company, I appreciate the idea and genesis behind the product.

I had meetings throughout the rest of the day with companies like Tomy, Learning Resources, Educational Insights, Melissa and Doug and MGA. I also attended showcases for two firms who showcased their clients’ highlighted products. For now, I’ll post a few photo highlights with more information to come on these, where I can fill in the blanks.

Melissa and Doug

Educational Insights

Roux Roo

Chinese Cubes

Much more to come!

Review: Mickey Mouse Clubhouse’s Minnie-Rella

February 11, 2014February 11, 2014 by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

With heart’s day in the pipeline, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse’s latest full-length adventure, Minnie-Rella is now available on DVD. Inspired by the classic Cinderella fairy tale, this Mickey Mouse Clubhouse adaptation of Cindy’s story gets a Minnie twist.

Minnie is given a pile of chores at the Clubhouse, but when she falls asleep, she dreams that she is Minnie-Rella. Just like the Cinderella tale, Minnie has her own Fairy Godmother, except her name is Clarabelle. With her tomato-turned carriage and beautiful gown, Minnie hopes to make it to the enchanted dance to meet up with her Prince Mickey.

We loved that the whole gang was involved in this sweet Minnie inspired fairy tale. The music and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse inspiration made this version of Cinderella that much more magical. With a “Mouseke-doodle-lee-do,” our family had a fun time singing along with this sweet Minnie-fied fairy tale. This is a must-watch for preschoolers and beyond, and makes for a fun family movie, too.

I particularly loved the bonus episodes: Pluto’s Tale, Mickey and the Enchanted Egg and Daisy’s Pony Tale. These shorts were perfect complements to the Minnie-centric show. Even better, I loved the free castle playset include within the dvd packaging. A lot of fun to be had in this little package. Wouldn’t this make the cutest Valentine’s Day present for the kids?

Be sure to grab the DVD which is in stores today, or catch it on the Disney Channel and Disney Jr. on Valentine’s Day, February 14.

And all in the name of Minnie-Rella magic, how about some fun downloadable activities:

The Lego Movie is an Awesome Hit + Valentine’s Day Printables

February 10, 2014February 10, 2014 by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Not surprisingly, The Lego Movie did smashingly well at the box office this weekend. It took the top spot and had glowing reviews to boot.

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One of the best write ups I read today, in fact, was from CNN via EW.com whose headline caught my eye: “Is the Lego Movie Really That Good?” I asked myself the same question and read on:

Based on the ubiquitous lock-block toy and licensed with many of pop-culture’s most ubiquitous heroes, “The LEGO Movie” is a sly Trojan horse of a movie. “Using the building-block world of LEGO to parody the creeping conformity of our world, ‘The LEGO Movie’ proves even more biting than ‘WALL-E,’ because it has the sauciness to send up its own rise-of-a-hero story line,” writes EW’s Owen Gleiberman.

Combine the beloved building blocks, personified—rather, animated with mini figures—and throw in comedic timing, sauciness and you get family fun at the theater. This movie, in my opinion, seemed like a perfect formula for success: Everyone loves Lego, many of us are enduring cabin fever in the tundra that is our winter and this older kid bracket is an untapped (boy) market in the movies right now.

Considering how obsessed we are with Warner Brother’s Lego Marvel video game, I have no doubt that we’ll love this movie just as much. We were actually focused on another movie this weekend, but we’ve got Lego Movie on our docket to come. In the meantime, I’ve been loving reading the reviews from traditional outlets, as well as from my friends.

And, in case you have Valentine’s on your mind like we do this week, how rad are these Lego Movie Valentines from Warner Brothers?

Click on the above image to head to the full version of the Lego Movie Printables AND other versions as well. I know these are promos for the movie, but how perfect are these for Lego lovers and movie enthusiasts alike?

An Ultimate Getaway Aboard the NCL Getaway

January 31, 2014January 31, 2014 by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

The weather here in the northeast has been downright frigid. Lucky for us, we had a chance to getaway on the NCL Getaway—well, at least for a day anyway.

Last weekend, The Moms and Norwegian Cruiseline hosted a family media day aboard the latest ship in the NCL fleet, the Getaway. Having just sailed across the Atlantic, literally, just weeks from the shipyard, we were among the first to explore the brand spanking new ship. Beyond getting to smell that new ship smell, we savored some food, entertainment and whet our appetites for much more.

Measuring in at 1,068 ft., boasting 18 decks (14 open to the public), 28 diverse dining options and a waterpark with five waterslides, among other features, the Getaway certainly lived up to its name.

As we arrived, we convened in the Illusionarium, which channeled a big top circus with a magician’s appeal. Deep velvets and vintage-looking magician’s tools, made for a mysterious, yet intimate backdrop for a dining and entertainment space.

NCL treated us to a delicious lunch that included coconut shrimp, a simple salad, twice baked potato and a filet. And since we were celebrating the babe’s birthday, the banana cupcake for the kids was an expected hit. The fluffy, decorative icing was a major hit for Josh, no surprise there. I devoured the dessert sampling that featured a trilogy of sweet confections, including a red velvet cupcake, vanilla crème caramel and chocolate cake.

After our fulfilling lunch, we were treated even further with a sampling of shows that could be found aboard the Getaway. Burn the Floor, an invigorating, fast-paced dance show, headlined the entertainment. This high energy show featured dancers who stomped and burned the floor with tap and jazz-inspired choreography. Of all the shows, this was my favorite, and based on the kids’ expressions, I’m sure they felt the same.

The magician was the next performer who engaged the kids even further. He balanced a candle atop a floating table, which mesmerized both kids and adults.

The Tony Award nominated show, Legally Blonde was the next performance that turned heads. While I love Broadway musicals, Legally Blonde just isn’t my thing. Nevertheless, it was a fun and entertaining performance.

The kids’ absolute favorite performance, though, was the Nickelodeon crew. Dora, Diego, Spongebob and the Nickelodeon team danced even further into my boys’ hearts. The excitement and allure from the oversized, singing characters from the 2 year old was immeasurable.

After the performances, we had a chance to explore the ship on a guided tour as the older kids got to enjoy the Nickelodeon Splash Camp. The highlights of the tour for the expansive dining options included The Waterfront, an open air promenade that showcases the ocean as part of the ambience; the chilly Ice Bar; La Cucina, the obligatory italian joint and my favorite, Carlo’s Bakery.

As a former longtime Hoboken resident and fan pre-Cake Boss, I absolutely loved seeing this iconic bakery have a presence aboard another NCL ship. I didn’t have a chance to taste anything beyond the luncheon, but the thought of a future sail has my mouth watering.

As for the staterooms, we had a chance to peek into several interior rooms. Like most interior rooms, they were modest and cozy, but had me feeling claustrophobic.

Having lived in tight quarters for so long, I dream of stretching out while on vacation. On the other end of the spectrum, the staterooms in the Haven were nothing less than dreamy. I peeked into a few Haven suites and fell in love with the clean, modern decor and smart design. These suites maximized the space and even featured an offset sleeping area. The tiled bathroom and glorious tubs truly evoked elegance.

The areas I really wanted to tour though, I unfortunately didn’t have a chance to really explore. Though Jack spent some time at the Splash Camp, I wanted to have a look at the facility for the kids. NCL is known for their comprehensive kids’ programs, which looked super fun from a distance.

It featured bright colors, fun music, a second floor and cool counselors. My only complaint: the babe really wanted to play with big bro, and since he’s just 2, he wasn’t able to play along and enjoy balloons with the bigger kids since that specific kid area was for 3 and up. He eventually got over it when we let him gamble.

Since I’ve had the pleasure of attending several media cruises and events aboard various cruise ships, it always great when I’m able to bring family to experience the fun. This time around, we spent the babe’s 2nd birthday aboard the ship. Since we opted to forgo a big party for his 2nd birthday, it felt as thought NCL threw Josh a super lavish party! Entertainment, delicious food, Dora and Diego, Spongebob and an attentive staff to wait on us and clean up? Best birthday celebration ever!

A big thank you again to NCL and The Moms for hosting us for the media and give us a reason to dream about a major Getaway.

PBS Kids Debuts New Dinosaur Train Special: Nature Trackers Adventure Camp

January 20, 2014January 20, 2014 by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Looking for something to watch today while the kids are home? PBS Kids is premiering a one hour special today called, Dinosaur Train: Nature Trackers Adventure Camp. The Pteranodon family are taking the kids and parents on a journey that features four stories that highlight nature and adventures in varying geographic locations. On their adventures, they zipline, raft and mountain climb, among other fun things.

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As lovers of the outdoors, Nature Trackers Adventure Camp has us excited for our own outdoor excursions when the weather thaws a bit. I especially love how this episode has an interesting educational angle that engages my adventurers one step further. Click through to read more about this fun special!

“Nature Trackers Adventure Camp: Rafting”
Buddy, Tiny, Shiny and Don go river rafting for the first time at Nature Tracker Adventure Camp. Their old pal Jess Hesperornis meets up with them, and they all learn about erosion and the importance of rivers before finishing up their adventure by cruising through some rapids!

Educational Objective: Rivers and streams are ribbons of water that start at a high point and flow downhill – often with streams gathering into rivers. Animals and plants living on land depend on rivers and streams to provide fresh water and nutrients.

“Nature Trackers Adventure Camp: Mountain Climbing”
For their second outing at Nature Trackers Adventure Camp, Buddy, Tiny, Shiny, Don and other friends learn about the tree line as they set out to hike up a mountain. Shiny is determined to get to the top of mountain forest. Buddy wonders if they’ll be able to see anything from the mountaintop, through the tall trees. The kids are amazed that the higher they hike, the shorter the trees and bushes become! Then they reach the tree line – a certain point on the mountain where trees are really small because they don’t have enough air to breathe and the temperature is too cold. In the end, Shiny and all the kids use teamwork to all reach the mountaintop together!

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Educational Objective: The timberline, or tree line, is a certain elevation on a mountain where the temperatures are colder, the air is thin and the soil is less moist, making it hard for most plants and trees to grow. Trees may grow as small shrubs. There is less oxygen, so it’s harder for animals to breathe at the tree line and above.

“Nature Trackers Adventure Camp: Ziplining”
The Nature Trackers Adventure Campers are back for another adventure – and this time they’ll be travelling to a rainforest! Once they arrive in the dense rainforest, the campers explore different levels of the ecosystem, including the forest floor and the canopy of leaves at the top of the forest. After a hike through the rainforest, the campers’ adventure culminates as each kid takes a ride on a zipline, where they all get a bird’s eye view of the entire rainforest!

Educational Objective: Rainforests are very dense, warm, wet, forests that are home to a vast array of different life forms. Rainforests get a lot of rain, at least 70 inches per year. Rainforests, often called the “lungs of the Earth,” generate much of the oxygen we breathe.

“Nature Trackers Adventure Camp: Canyon Hiking”
The Nature Trackers Adventure Campers are led by Mr. Conductor and Gilbert on a hike down a canyon, where they can see the different layers of the Mesozoic Era! At first, Lily Lambeosaurus is reluctant to go, thinking that a new adventure sounds hard, but Don convinces her that a new adventure can be worth the effort. At the bottom of the canyon, the kids dig for fossils. Each Nature Tracker goes home with a “new” Ammonite fossil, and Lily is so glad she tried something new!

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Educational Objective: Canyons are deep cuts in the earth’s surface. They are formed by erosion. Erosion is mainly caused by the flow of rivers. It takes millions of years for canyons to become the grandiose natural landmarks they are today. The bottom rocks in canyons can date back billions of years, beyond the Mesozoic. Canyons can also be formed by a shift of the earth’s tectonic plates.

Best Toddler Toys

December 24, 2013 by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

There are so many wonderful toys for toddlers, I wanted to share just a few of our very favorites. With Christmas here, many of these were still available at my local Target, Apple Store and other toy store.

As I’ve said before, with Josh’s various delays, I view toys and play pattern very differently now. What was once a mediocre toy, I now find has so many great qualities for extended and open ended play. I appreciate the kinds of toys that encourage imaginative play and increase creative thought. We enjoy toys that use batteries, but not in an obtrusive, overstimulating way.

NKTToddlerToys

1. Baa Baa Barn
Baa Baa Barn is, perhaps, the most play-ed with toy in our lineup of toddler toys. This barn play set from B. Toys features a jewel-toned set up and funky music. I love that there are so many nooks and crannies for toddlers to explore. The best feature of this unique farm-inspired play set, though, is the incorporation of interactive music. When an animal is placed on the barn floor, the song that’s played reflects the animal sounds. The little blue sax-playing raccoon has the funkiest beat that gets my almost two-year old grooving. Grab this awesome play set at Target.

2. Tiggly Shapes
I’m not very big into screen time with young tots; however, there are a few exceptions for my feelings on this. I appreciate when iPads or tablets reinforce educational play. Limited educational play via tablets have shown increased language skills and developmental progress in young children. While I am totally against using a tablet as a babysitter, I love that there are appcessory-type toys such as Tiggly Shapes that encourage this sort of educational play that I currently seek for my IE tot.
Tiggly Shapes combines tactile and digital play, merging play patterns to create a conducive learning experience for toddlers and preschoolers. With four interactive shapes, kids can explore shapes and objects on the iPad through several apps. The most recent app, in fact, is a Christmas-themed app that brings the season full circle. Pun intended.

3. 1, 2, 3 Take Along Fire Station
With a portable fire station set up, foldable wall and lift to the relaxation room on the first floor, what’s not to love about Playmobil’s Take Along Fire Station? This set’s portability and fire station theme, combined with the chunkier pieces make it ideal for toddlers and preschoolers. I love that it encourages open-ended play, doesn’t require batteries and houses all of its own pieces in the station. Playmobil is a classic and well-loved brand in our house with the big boy, but this playlet is a welcomed addition for my curious toddler.

4. AB3’s
Another fabulous B. Toys products lands in our favorites of the season. This beautiful wooden alphabet and number toy features letters at the top and numbered figures at the bottom which can be spun over and over. The beautiful colors and wooden details make this abacus-like toy a must-keep for future generations, and as my husband described, it’s totally “heirloom-quality.” This would make a beautiful gift for a baby, just as it would for a preschooler. My own toddler loves to watch the numbers spin, but I personally look forward to helping him learn his AB3’s.

5. Roll and Learn Suitcase
VTech toys never seem to disappoint, and the same goes for this innovative rolling suitcase from VTech. From the intuitive buttons to removable travel inspired blocks, this rolling suitcase can be opened to house smaller toys. The suitcase, aptly, is toddler-sized and can be rolled or pushed around with ease. I love the interactive features of this case, which is similar to that familiar VTech toys interface. My only qualm with this toy, though, is that I would have loved to see the interior include a little more interactivity.

6. Bubble Guppies Rock n Roll Stage
A favorite for preschoolers, Bubble Guppies’ catchy songs can be recreated on their Rock n Roll Stage. The stage gives these lovable characters a platform to sing and dance, and encourages imaginative play for Bubble Guppies’ fans. I love that the characters slide around on this playset. The fun songs and cute Nickelodeon characters make this playset a must-have for ocean-loving and Bubble Guppies fans alike.

Stride Rite Children’s Group Showcases Spring 2014 at PetiteParade

October 13, 2013October 13, 2013 by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

They may be small in stature, but the runway models from last week’s PetiteParade were big on style with a little extra spunk.

As part of Children’s Fashion Week, a number of trendsetting brands showcased their latest and greatest on the PetiteParade’s runway last week. Stride Rite Children’s Group punctuated the two-day event with their signature classic style. In their show, Stride Rite Children’s Group featured Stride Rite, Saucony, Merrell, Nordstrom, Sperry and Keds.

Stride Rite opened their Spring 2013 show with a whimsical nod to their flower-inspired styles. Colorful classic sandals with flower details and coral gold-toed Mary Janes were among the most eye-catching styles that started off the StrideRite show.

I loved the way that StrideRite can seamlessly translate trends into age-appropriate fashion in their footwear, such as pink hombre flower details on gladiator-style sandals.

For the boys and superhero aficionado, StrideRite showcased one of their beloved licenses, Marvel. The casual-cool slip-ons embraced superhero flair without compromising modern style. For the sporty set, Saucony showcased styles suitable for both boys and girls. With neon details and velcro closures for smaller kids, Saucony has Spring styles for athletes of all sizes.

Merrell, a newcomer to the Stride Rite Children’s Group, made quite the entrance. Gray sneakers with turquoise and pink detailing underscore Merrell’s footing in the outdoor sector. My favorite from Merrell, however, was a hiking boot that looked both playful and fashionable, and something totally ideal for my rugged boy with discerning taste.

Sperry showcased a sampling of both chic and classic styles for Spring. A royal blue pair of Sperry Topsiders looked sleek with a sport coat, yet I’m imagining they would be just as cool with a pair of jeans. The pink striped with sequins, though, were the most chic style from this mainstay brand.

Stride Rite Children’s Group ended their show with Keds, yet another classic brand well-associated with style. This brand, synonymous, for their signature white canvas sneakers, featured a splash of color with a bit of modern-classic prints thrown into the mix. It was so fitting that a super cute, but super shy model ended the show with a sporty cape and signature white sneakers.

Following the show, Malinda Freitas, Stride Rite Children’s Group Brand Marketing Manager and Jennifer Smith, Fashion Stylist for the show, gave the bloggers onhand a rundown of Stride Rite’s Spring looks. Freitas underscored the importance of real fashion that moms can incorporate into everyday wear, something that I totally “get” from Stride Rite. An honest brand enthusiast, I have always bought Stride Rite for practicality and durability first. It’s always been an added extra that this beloved brand stays so relevant with its cutting-edge style.

Check out the behind the scenes interview with Malinda Freitas, Stride Rite Brand Marketing Manager and Jennifer Smith Fashion Stylist.

Curious George Swings into Spring on PBS Kids on Earth Day

April 21, 2013April 21, 2013 by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Everyone’s favorite monkey is helping us to usher in spring today, just in time for Earth Day. Curious George, like most of us, has spring fever after a long winter.

As usual, George finds himself in quite the predicament in the new PBS Kids movie, “Curious George Swings into Spring.” As he finds his way, George is able to enjoy and learn about the beauty of spring firsthand.

To prepare for Curious George’s “Swing into Spring” hour-long movie that coincides with Earth Day celebrations, we did some fun outdoor activities. After all, the best way to learn for the little guys is to do it hands-on, especially if it involves getting dirty!

We’re getting the groove of this suburban thing, which includes a new-found appreciation for gardening. The whole family gets into planting flowers, working on the lawn and cultivating a garden.

As part of this fun Curious George promo, our friends at PBS Kids sent us a fantastic spring care package, that included materials for planting tomato, as well as instructions for a fun bird feeder that incorporates recycled materials.

Together with our other plants, we planted our tomatoes last week. As we were working on the garden and seedlings today, we noticed the tiniest sprout! We’ve been careful to plant and keep our pots in sunlight and out of harm’s way. We’re looking forward to see the wonderful fruit it will bear!

We enjoyed today’s beautiful sunshine by building a bird feeder from a recycled soda bottle. After cleaning out the bottle, punching several holes for the twine at the top and holes to position the chopstick to act as a perch, we then filled the bottle with seeds. After closing the bottle and flipping it over, we found a perfect spot to hang our new feeder right outside our window. We’ll be watching for birds to come visit!

As our buddy Curious George reminds us, it’s important to embrace spring and to enjoy nature as often as we can! After checking out Curious George’s Swing into Spring, make sure you make time to go for a walk or find a special way enjoy the outdoors on Earth Day and every day.

Tune into PBS Kids on April 22nd to catch the hour-long special, “Curious George Swings into Spring.”

As a PBS Kids VIP, it’s a privilege to share the latest PBS Kids news. I was not compensated, and as always, all opinions are my own.

Take Me Out to the Ballgame: Joining the Mets Blogger Community

April 7, 2013April 9, 2013 by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

If you happen to know my husband, then you surely know that his favorite things in life are family, the Mets and beer…and in that order.

In our 17 years together, the Mets have always been a part of “us.” But before us, my husband, grew up idolizing his favorite baseball team. In the 80s, the decade of excess, the Mets had a rockstar status, and for Jeff, that status will never fade. (Through good times and the bad)

As Jeff and I grew to become the three of us, I announced my pregnancy with a Mets onsie. We’ve been instilling our love for the Amazins since our boys were in diapers, so much so, Biggie’s first game was also my first Mother’s Day, which we lovingly spent at Shea!

<a href=”http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenrab/357882244/” title=”preg 013 by jen_rab, on Flickr”><img src=”http://farm1.staticflickr.com/146/357882244_7b57330b08.jpg” width=”500″ height=”375″ alt=”preg 013″></a>
<a href=”http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenrab/2485534200/” title=”Mother’s Day at Shea by jen_rab, on Flickr”><img src=”http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2209/2485534200_1359dc1689.jpg” width=”500″ height=”375″ alt=”Mother’s Day at Shea”></a>
Our love for baseball transcends the commercialism that sporting events have seemingly become. To us, baseball and the Mets are synonymous with passion and family, which is why I’m truly honored and elated to be invited to be a part of the Mets Blogging Community!

I’m excited to share fun details about the Amazins and perhaps a few behind the scenes pix! Follow me on Twitter and Instagram for my latest updates.

A Taste of the Finger Lakes

March 19, 2013March 19, 2013 by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

I just spent the last four days eating and drinking my way through the Finger Lakes in upstate New York. Just a five hour drive northwest of NYC, together with my girlfriends, we explored the best of what the Finger Lakes has to offer.

And based on my full belly, fond memories and a trunk full of pies and wine, we completely enjoyed the Finger Lakes. While most of my trip was a girlfriends’ trip, I’ll most likely post about the more family friendly topics here and will share the other adventures on other publications.

Since it’s still so fresh in my mind, the highlights of this weekend were the various wineries, the award-winning Leaf Kitchen a locavore restaurant in Geneva, Touring the up and coming microbrewery the Naked Dove, enjoying Monica’s Pies and cooking at The New York Wine and Culinary Center. Above all the delicious wine and food, I was most impressed by the overall collaborative effort that the area has put in with their local food revolution. From retailer to manufacturer to family-owned wineries, each company and organization embraced a sense of camaraderie throughout industry as a whole.

And even though I’m blogging from the back seat ON our way home and sitting right next to them, big hugs to my beautiful friends, Carol, Corine and Liz, with whom I enjoyed exploring the Finger Lakes. A special thank you to the Finger Lakes Visitors Connection, Geneva on the Lake, surrounding counties and all of the other wonderful organizations who made our trip so incredible. I can’t wait to share more!

In the meantime, feel free to catch a glimpse of our adventures on Twitter or Instagram by checking out the #FLXTrip or #FLXFoodRev hastags