Going Back to School with Staples

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

A few weeks ago, I was invited by Staples to take a peek at their latest back to school gear at their #StaplesHasIt event in NYC. Not only did I get a good look at all the latest wares that the retailer had to offer for students and teachers, but we learned about their new Reward-A-Classroom Program AND had the chance to hobnob with a celeb.

For the trend setters, be on the lookout for these fun styles and great gear:

Back to Neon

Neon isn’t just hot with clothes and accessories, this hot trend continues to overlap onto school supplies and other kid gear. Both Jansport and Puma offer neon backpacks; Bold pink, orange, blue and lime green hues are featured in the Quilted Collection of zipper binders, pencil pouches, tablet cases and clipboards. As a writer on the go and serial volunteer (and forever a college kid at heart), my personal favorites for my bag are the Studio C Neon Zip-It 1 Subject Notebook and Neon Sharpies.

Exclusive Patterns and Designs

Staples offers unique designs on products like the Better binders, sticky notes and index card holders, which give a nod back to the 80s, but still keep it functional and cool.

Twinkle, Twinkle

Going a bit further, school supplies are lighting up with cool fiber-optic treatments. (Y’know, just in case you should ever find yourself doing homework at a rave.) The Glo-Lite collection featuring staplers, rulers and dry-erase boards ($6.00-$8.99), lights up when pushed. Fiber Optic Pencil Pouches twinkle in cool designs including shoe, piano and paisley ($6.99). Need a lunch bag that lights up? #StaplesHasIt. Of course they do.

Locker Sweet Locker

I thought I was the coolest with my awesome locker shelves way back when. Staples steps it up with Magnetic Motion Sensor Locker Chandelier ($19.99) that has seven LED lights, a Glo-Lite Magnetic Pencil Bin ($8.99), to unique glitter rugs ($9.99) and magnetic wallpaper ($5.99).

Tech You Can Touch

Acer Aspire Touch Laptop is very portable at only 11.6 inches and at an affordable pricepoint: $479.99). For even more accessibility and portability, Staples has tablets like the HP Slate 7 with Beats ($169.99), Samsung Galaxy II 7 inch ($195.99) and Samsung Note 8.0 ($399.99), Google Nexus 7 16GB ($199) and Kindle Fire HD 8.9” 16GB ($269).

Jansport sleeves combine fashion and function with a wide assortment of tablet sleeves from animal prints to plaids to neon accents. The Jansport Superbreak Sleeve is a durable and fashionable way to carry a 15-inch laptop like a backpack ($29.99).

Nothing Basic About It

Staples also offers fun basic supplies with novelty features, including: Staples Flexible Calculator, Scotch Magic, the Chameleon tape dispenser ($9.99) actually changes color when touched; Post-It Pop-up Note Karate Dispenser ($9.99) that puts post-it notes at your fingertips and Woodland Animal Pencil Pouch ($5.99) available in a variety of fuzzy critters.

Let’s Do Lunch

I’m all about creating fun lunches, so I appreciate Staples’ lineup of lunch accessories: The Fit & Fresh 14 Piece Healthy Lunch Set with proportioned containers and ice packs that snap into the lids ($14.99); Cool It! Ice packs ($10.99); and the LEGO Lunch box ($14.99).

Reward A Classroom

With many teacher friends and as a mom to a Kindergartener, I absolutely love the premise behind Staples new Reward A Classroom. In addition to the 5% back in rewards all members earn, parents can now earn extra rewards for the teacher of their choice with the Reward A Classroom program. Here’s what teachers get when parents shop:

2% back in rewards on everything, including postage, phone/gift cards and savings passes
5% back in rewards on every Copy & Print purchase

Teachers
Visit staples.com/rewardaclassroom to join the program. Make sure to tell parents and friends to link to your account so they start earning rewards for your classroom.

Parents
Visit staples.com/rewardaclassroom and select the teacher you’d like to earn extra rewards for.

There’s always a photo-op

And as a special treat, we Biggie and I had the chance to chat with Nick Cannon, host of America’s Got Talent. Nick was onhand to promote Monster NCredible Headphones. I’ll review those in a separate post, but it was fun meeting Nick, or as Biggie described, “the guy from American Idol.”

Disclosure:   I was provided with a gift bag at the event, but as always, all opinions on NKT are my own.

Baby Gear Fit for a Prince

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Last week, Prince William and Duchess Kate of Cambridge welcomed their first child, the royal heir, George Alexander Louis. What was one of the most watched pregnancies and anticipated births of our generation, the royal baby made quite the entrance.

Every new baby is so sweet and special, though many people (myself included) have an invested interest in the royal family.  And just as we’ve been watching Kate’s practical fashion choices, as well modern-classic maternity style, not surprisingly, many parents are zeroing in on Kate and Wills’ baby gear.

Wills and Kate have been dubbed a modern royal couple, so it’s quite fitting that in just their first week of parenthood they’ve showed that their taste for baby gear is smart and modern, too. From sleek cribs to baby socks, just like any baby, the royal heir will be adorned with baby gear hand picked by his doting parents and loved ones.

Though it’s highly unlikely we’ll get a look inside the royal nursery any time soon, if we had the chance to hand-pick items for the royal heir, here are just a few of the goodies and gear we’d recommend:

Baby Gear Fit for a PrinceBaby Gear Fit for a Prince by jenrab on Polyvore

1. 4moms Bassinet

This tech-enabled stroller that’s known to turn heads is getting its own new addition.  The 4moms Origami will soon add a bassinet to its lineup of cool accessories, making this stroller an even sweeter ride.

2. Nuna Leaf

The Nuna Leaf’s sleek design and functionality make this seat a practical addition to any new parents’ aresenal of baby gear.  By soothing baby with just a push, the Leaf would give the royal new parents a little bit of extra help.

3. Stokke MyCarrier

There’s a countless amount of carriers on the market today, but this sturdy carrier boasts three positions, underscoring comfort, convenience and closeness.  Having tried out my fair share of carriers over the years, this carrier, hands-down, is my most favorite because of its ergonomic design and the fact that baby is always close enough to kiss.  With an 18-month old with developmental delays, my guy isn’t walking yet.  So, for me to still be able to comfortably carry my 25-lber in a carrier and not ache speaks volumes about the convenience of the MyCarrier.

4. Mamas and Papas Plush Toy Mini Red Bus

Mamas and Papas, one of the coolest british imports to the US, has a whole host of great, modern baby gear.  The iconic Double Decker Bus is a fun nod to the company’s British roots, and one that’s totally suitable for the Royal Baby.  The plush stroller toy, like others in the Mamas and Papas lineup, attaches to a stroller and has a chewable C-ring.

5.  Eurotub

Perhaps one of the most versatile baby tubs on the market, the Eurotub can be used from the infancy stages all the way up to toddlerhood.  The incline and overall size of the Eurotub make this a favorite for many modern parents.

6.  Timi and Leslie

Timi and Leslie has a fashionable selection of diaper bags, suitable for all types of parents.   The Charlie Diaper Bag in Teal has a sleek silhouette and functionality, fit for a prince or princess.  The best part of Timi and Leslie diaper bags are that most of them come with several feeding and changing pockets and accessories, making this brand one of my most favorite diaper bags.

7.  Bamboobies

Bamboobies’ name, alone, deserves the royal treatment.  It’s said that Kate is breastfeeding her new son.  Whether or not she, it’s important to support great mamas and their decisions. But for many new nursing mamas, it’s easy to get caught up in all the breastfeeding accoutrements and information.  Truth is, in the early days, great support and breast pads are all you need.  Bamboobies are absorbant, made with natural fibers and practically invisible under clothes. These heart-shaped bamboo breast pads are ideal for new nursing mamas.

8. Charlie Banana in William

Charlie Banana makes eco-friendly diapers aka a cloth diaper.  These soft, fluffy and fashionable diapers come in a variety of colors, but its the William that is eye-catching, suitable for the newborn royal.  This style which is a nod to the newest royal heir’s dad, is white with funky blue hearts.  My guy has this style in his stash and it truly makes me smile every time I put it on him.  (Taking off, however, is a much different emotion!)

9. Aden + Anais bird print from Jungle Jam collection

When Wills and Kate debuted baby George, they had two swaddling blankets on their new bundle, one of which was Aden + Anais’ bird print from their Jungle Jam collection.  I’ve heralded my love for Aden + Anais many times over here, and it’s no big secret that new parents share the same affection for these cozy, lightweight swaddles.  The best part part of these swaddles is that they’re so versatile and they get softer with every wash.  Having used these swaddles as nursing covers, a sun shade, blanket and, yes, even a swaddle, I love the fact that Kate and Wills validated that these swaddles are, indeed, fit for a prince.  Said to be sold out in the U.K. the bird print is still available in the U.S., alongside of many other fantastic prints.

10. Britax B-Safe

The Royal new parents departed the hospital last week and like most every other parent, strapped their newborn into their carseat and left in their vehicle.  Wills and Kate went with a Britax seat that’s reportedly only available in Europe, butit’s said that the Britax B-Safe carseat is quite similar.  This highly rated carseat has an -fangle-free five point harness, is compatible with Britax B-Series STrollers, has a 30-lb weight capacity, and ergonomic carry handle, among other features.  It’s no wonder Britax carseats are some of the most popular carseats for new parents, including Wills and Kate.

11. Oeuf Elephant Crib

Oeuf’s Elephant Crib is just as eye-catching as it is functional. Oeuf is known for their sleek and modern nursery furniture, but I love that this company’s convertible cribs are made from sustainable forest sources, making it yet another piece suitable for the royal heir and other modern-minded families.

12.  Stokke Tripp Trapp and  Newborn Set

Stokke’s Tripp Trapp is an iconic piece that exudes the style and functionality that many modern new parents seek.  This chair that’s been around for more than 25 years comes in a spectrum of chic colors and can be used from newborn stages all the way up to adulthood.  The Tripp Trapp newborn set is an accessory that allows baby to be cradled at the table.  In addition to the five-point harness and soft cushioning, the newborn set is one of the only accessories that I’ve seen that safely allows you to include baby at the table at mealtime.  Those days of pulling the bouncer next to the table on the floor are over!

13. Tommee Tippee’s Limited Edition Prince

Tommee Tippee’s Closer to Nature line of baby feeding supplies is a favorite for many modern families.  Even though I rarely used bottles, when I did, baby seemed to favor TT’s bottles.  I especially loved that their bottles and breastpumps worked seamlessly together.

Another British brand that’s become an American fave is touting this limited edition Prince style, that’s exclusive to Toys R Us. This limited edition pays homage to the royal heir and is available for pre-order now.

14. Mamas and Papas Urbo Stroller in Turquoise/Navy

Mamas and Papas Urbo stroller is lightweight and trim, ideal for city and suburban life.  The metallic shine on this stroller’s chassis and its ample storage space would make a definite statement if the Duchess chose this modern stroller for baby George.

15.  Earth Mama Angel Baby Breastfeeding Essential Bundle

As I mentioned, in the early days, mama doesn’t need many accessories for nursing a sweet baby.  Although, once everyone gets acclimated, creams, lotions and tea never hurt anyone.  I’ve been a longtime lover of Earth Mama Angel Baby’s products, but I especially love this bundle that includes organic Milkmaid Tea to help with production; Natural Nipple Butter to soothe after those cluster feedings;  Booby Tubes breast packs to soothe during engorgement.  A kit like this is more than enough to hold any new nursing mama over for months to come.

16. Trumpette Peewee Argyle Baby Socks

Another favorite and baby gift staple, Trumpette socks are yet another stylish and functional baby item suitable for the modern babe.  Whether born in July like the Royal Heir or January like my own baby, it’s likely baby will be wearing socks when he or she is out or about.  What’s so fabulous about Trumpette is that they not only stay on, but they come in a bundle of fun colors and look like shoes.  Is there anything as crucial—or cuter—than covering baby toes?

Round Up: Fun Summer Goodies

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram
Fun Summer Goodies
It’s been a busy summer over here, involving caring for more sick kids, taxiing everyone around and of course, having fun in the sun.  We’ve enjoyed playing outdoors from morning until night, and honestly, this heatwave going on in the tri-state area is the only thing that’s really kept us indoors since school let out.
So, I thought I’d share just a few of the many things we’ve been playing with (and coveting) this summer.  I’ll share more details about these favorites soon!
Have you been playing with anything cool?

Mrs. Met Joins the fun at Citi Field

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Speaking of fun in the sun, our friends, the Mets,  announced that Mrs. Met will be re-joining the line-up.  Mrs. Met, apparently has been taking care of their family in Flushing, so she’s been a bit tied up over the years.  (I get that!)

And since Mrs. Met will be re-joining the fun at Citi Field, as part of the #Metsmoms, I was asked to share all about this cool deal:  Find the info after the jump

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Children’s Place Summer Emphasizes Bright, Bold and Fun(ctional)

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Just in time for our trip to see the Mouse last month, our friends at The Children’s Place once again invited us for their Media Shop Day, this time to check out their latest in summer styles. SummerPlace at the Children’s Place is all about bold, beautiful and fun patterns and graphics, with a whole lot of functionality thrown into the mix. The baby and I had a fun time perusing the bright racks in the Union Square store, stocking up on the great baby and big boy pieces for our trip, but to also last us through our busy summer.

Among my favorites from the Summer 2013 line are the swim coordinates for boys; athletic wear and the cute jumpers for girls. Bright aqua tones for boys were a common sight and we noted lots of orange and pinks for the girls.

According to Michael Giannelli, lead designer, “For summer 2013, the trend we’re seeing everywhere is clothes in bold colors and prints with blazingly bright, neon accents. This style is perfect for kids who love fun, cheerful looks and great for parents who want to keep track of their little ones. With our bright collection, you’ll never lose sight of them.”

True story: I always dress my boys in orange shirts when out and about in large crowds since most people dress their boys in blue and girls in black. Orange is one of those hard to miss, but super fun colors!

Here are a few great finds we spotted at TCP!


It’s been a month since we picked up our selections from TCP and as expected, we’ve been getting the most wear out of the athletic shorts and the coordinating swimwear. Because Biggie plays in various sports, the athletic shorts have been a great to have onhand. I only wish I’d picked up some of the matching sports shirts. The swimwear for baby are all fun, yet durable for frequent washes.


And, in case you don’t get TCP emails, it looks like they’re having a big sale right now. Head on over to stock up on summer essentials before the school clothes hit the racks.

Disclosure: I received a giftcard to purchase clothes to facilitate this review.

Last Minute Father’s Day Gift Ideas

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Last Minute Father's Day Gift Ideas

Though Father’s Day is just a day away, there’s still time for those of you (like me) who typically grab gifts at the 11th hour.

Celebrating dad doesn’t have to be about overspending or getting yet another tie.  This year, consider getting dad a fun experience or a practical gift that the whole family could enjoy.

I Polyvored just a few things that I know that my guy’s guy husband would appreciate.  So, for those looking for some gift ideas for the techy, handy and sports-loving dads, this list is for you:

1.  Let’s Go Mets!

Those that know my husband well know that he’s a diehard Mets fan, which spread throughout our little family.  As part of the #Metsmoms, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend Father’s Day than cheering on the Amazins at CitiField.  For us, quality time with dad and baseball goes together like peanuts and Cracker Jacks. And just for NKT readers, the Mets are offering a pretty cool deal: For $35, you get a limited edition Amazin’ Dad T-shirt for Dad, presented by Modell’s Sporting Goods, left field reserved ticket (regularly priced at $80) To access this exclusive deal head to: www.mets.com/bloggeroffer

2.  Jim Beam Red Stag

Is dad a drinker? Why not grab a bottle of Jim Beam Red Stag, which is cherry-iinfused Jim Beam. Ok, so hear me out. If you’re one of those people who are saying, “but whiskey shouldn’t be flavored,” Why not try something different?  Life is too short to be plain. This sweet, but robust whiskey is perfect for sipping, but great with mixers as well.

3.  Coleman Instant Tent

Have an outdoorsman kind of dad? He might appreciate Coleman’s Instant Tent. The Coleman Instant Tents are easy to set up, going from packed to fully assembled in less than 60 seconds. Along with the convenience of an easy setup, the Instant Tents also feature the Coleman WeatherTec system. I’m absolutely amazed at this technology. It sounds like there’s no more fumbling with a bazillions rods, making perfect for rugged trips in the wilderness and even spontaneous camp outs in the backyard.

4. Milwaukee Tools

When we first became homeowners, we also embarked om a DIY quest of overhauling our fixer-upper. When my seasoned electrician father-in-law came to help out one weekend, he told my husband it was time he invested in “real tools.” And it’s true, if you’re a homeowner taking on your own projects a good set of tools are a must.  Milwaukee Tools are a brand that is reliable and accessible; in fact, Home Depot often features many sets like these on sale around Father’s Day.

5. WD My Net N900

With a house full of smart phones, smart TVs, iPads and other connected devices, it’s likely your network can get bogged down.  WD’s My Net N900 is a router that can alleviate the strain all of these devices can put on your network.  Voted PC Mag’s best router of 2012, the My Net N900 is a powerhouse of a router that has streamlined our own network by increasing speed and more connectivity. With features such as, 900 Mbps, 7 Gigabit ports, and 2 USB ports, My Net N900 is for any techy dad who can appreciate fast, reliable wifi.

6. Wally

Days of the overstuff George Costanza wallet are long gone as we move forward to a paperless society.  Like many iphone and smartphone users, my husband uses his iphone to check onto flights, pay for Starbucks, deposit checks and more.  So, who needs a fat wallet anymore?  This wallet is for the pragmatic, minimalist, gadget  loving dad. Wally attaches to the back of your iPhone 4/4s or 5, by pulling the integrated ribbon to access your cards and push them back to conceal them. Now through Sunday, June 16, you can purchase Wally for 20 percent off the original price at www.distilunion.com.

7.  Birchbox Man

If dad is less into gadgets, but more into goodies, look into a Birchbox for men subscription. For as little as $20/month, dad will receive a monthly box of the best mens’ products.  Birchbox Man features a wide variety of products, ranging from grooming products to lifestyle samples.

8. Foster Grant

Who’s behind those Foster Grants?  Dad, that’s who!  After my husband’s last pair of expensive sunglasses were broken and stomped to pieces by one precocious toddler, he’s sworn off any other expensive accessories until we’re in the safer, less destructive stage. (does that even exist?)  After getting re-introduced to Foster Grant Sunglasses at the latest Getting Gorgeous, I fell in love with every single pair they were showing.  I received a sample in my swag bag and I haven’t taken them off since.
I love that Foster Grant has an equally awesome men’s line that is just as affordable and accessible.  Foster Grants look high end but are much more affordable, with most pairs starting under $30.  And even though they can be found in stores such as Duane Reade, they’re NOT your typical drugstore sunglasses.  They are high quality and super stylish.  I dig the aviators, but really like these sporty pair for the hus.

9. Pranklopedia

This fun book by Julie Winterbottom, longtime Nickelodeon Magazine editor in chief definitely doesn’t disappoint.  With over 70 pranks with lots of directions and funny pull out labels and jokes, this prank encyclopedia is a fun treat for dad and the kids to pore over.  My five year old just happens to be in that potty humor stage and, not surprisingly, my husband cracks the poop jokes alongside of him.  Pranklopedia has been a hysterical “resource” for them to bond over and share quite a few belly laughs.

10. Keep Out! Build Your Own Backyard Clubhouse

Another cool resource for dads and kids is this great guide on building a backyard clubhouse.  This guide features realistic projects, with a nod to throwback times.  I grew up with a backyard clubhouse, and one that we truly adored for many years.

11.  Paddleboarding lessons/experience

Inspired by my cousin who has been an avid Stand Up Paddleboarder, I’ve been admiring his photos and adventures for a few years. Paddleboarding is interesting because it’s become quite a phenomenon among water sports, not only for the ocean, but in rivers and lakes too.  I’m still learning about the sport myself, but from the looks of it, paddleboarding seems to be a doable watersport for people of all ages.  I was reading through SUP magazine to get a feel for the sport and I think I’m hooked.  I can totally see me paddleboarding with my dad and husband! There are quite a few places that do lessons in the tri-state, but I found Kayak Hudson to be of interest.  Check them out!

Most importantly, Father’s Day isn’t about the excess of stuff.  It’s about celebrating and enjoying dads and the father figures in your life.  Time well spent transcends material goods, so however you spend the day, be sure to embrace the ones you love.

Battling Trashies: Thoughts on UFT Ultimate Fighting Trashies

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

We’ve been playing with all sorts of fun new toys this spring, but one toy that has seen quite a bit of playtime for several seasons is the Trash Pack.  I’ve talked about how Trashies have been innundating our home since last year, but with new seasons, brings new toys.  Moose Toys recently introduced the Ultimate Fighting Trashies, or UFT for short.  UFT is exactly as it sounds: they’re battling Trashies, complete with ring and launchers.

My first impression of this latest take on the Trash Pack line of toys: fun, quirky and cool way to further engage kids into the world of Trashies.  I’m a big fan of the kid-powered launchers and the affordable pricepoint of the UFT set and add-ons.  Having grown up in the age of Garbage Pail Kids, I would have never anticipated that my own kid would be obsessing over his own version of trash.  Despite the fact that I’m constantly finding Trashies in every nook of the playroom, I do like these tiny toys and their collectible factor.

My dislikes about this set, I wish it came with a pair of launchers and while we’re at it, a way to organize all of these tiny pieces from the set.

Biggie and I gave the ring and several of our Trashies a try, and we’ve been battling ever since.

Check out our video that we filmed a few weeks ago.

You can find Trash Pack toys, accessories and UFT at major retailers such as TRU and Target.

Full disclosure:  we were provided a UFT set to facilitate this review.  As always, all opinions on NKT are my own.

(Sponsored) Googaro Review: Baby Product Subscription Box

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Much emphasis as of late has been on babies. Naturally, with spring in full swing, it seems everyone has been having babies! It’s a good thing we love babies and all of the goodies they require.

And speaking of goodies, I get a lot of emails from readers and friends asking what the latest and greatest gifts for babies are these days. One of the biggest trends in gifts for babies—and actually, gifts in general—are subscription boxes.


Subscription boxes are exactly what they sound like: they’re a subscription service based upon a theme, where recipients are mailed new boxes every month for a nominal fee. These boxes make an awesome gift for new moms because they often feature new products every month, which gives these new parents a chance to test drive new stuff monthly. And who doesn’t like getting care packages in the mail every month?

One of the newest subscription box services, Googaro, is geared to new parents and features a variety of fun new baby-centric products, tailored to specific age groups and gender. According to Googaro, they include goodies in their care packages ranging from “toys, books, snacks, and household products from brands we love like Plum, Burt’s Bees, and Aden+Anais.”


My first impression of Googaro: nice-sized package, beautiful branding and an ample assortment of baby products that I already know and love. I actually already own almost everything in the package, underscoring Googaro’s one liner: “Top Quality, Baby-tested Products Chosen by Picky Moms, Delivered to Your Door Each Month.” I am a picky mom who researches and hunts down the latest and greatest for kids, so it made me smile to open my sample Googaro box to find awesome goodies from Happy Family, Cleanwell, Episencial, eco-crayons, JJ Cole and ore.



Would I have liked to find products that I’d never heard of before? Perhaps…but I’m much happier to find brands that have been vetted by like-minded moms and boast eco-friendly and baby safe standards. My one year old could always use more snacks, safe sunscreen and fluffy bath towels, so I was glad to see these baby essentials included in the box. As for the Cleanwell handsanitizer? We go through massive amounts of Cleanwell products, so I’m excited to replenish the diaper bag sanitizer supply. I personally think $35/month is more than I’d be willing to spend on this type of subscription, but I am glad to see there are gift options and chances to save.

Googaro is off to a great start; I can’t wait to see what other goodies they include next. I’d love to see them branch out to include goodies for bigger kids, too. So far, so good, though!

Googaro subscriptions are offered in 3, 6 or 12 month options, starting at $35/month. The longer the subscription, the more you save. And speaking of saving, Googaro has kindly offered NKT readers 10% off everything on their site. Just use the promo code JENRB10

And that’s not all! Googaro is also offering a fun box to one lucky reader! For easy entries, go like Googaro on Facebook, follow them on Twitter and Pinterest, too. While you’re liking things, like NKT, too (if you haven’t already)! Just enter below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Full disclosure: this is a sponsored post and a product sample was provided to facilitate the review, but as always, opinions on NKT are my own.

2013 PBS Annual Meeting Highlights

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Words can’t adequately convey the gratitude and overall excitement I’ve experienced over the past week. From Disney to PBS Kids and through the platform I’ve created on this corner of the Internet, I was bestowed the honor of participating in conferences hosted by the aforementioned.
Perhaps you’ve seen the influx of tweets and Instagram images I’ve shared from my journey, but in case you haven’t, I thought I’d share just a quick pictorial recap of my PBS annual meeting.


As a PBS Kids VIP, together with a group of like minded parent influencers, I was afforded the opportunity to sit in a variety of sessions and breakout sessions to learn more about what’s on the horizon for PBS shows and digital properties.

On day one, we met the newest cast member of Sesame Street. The character, Mando, is a bilingual writer who will explore his creativity and hone his appreciation for culture in the venerable show’s 44th season.


During one of our breaks, I received a text from the husband at home, who showed off a Cat in the Hat craft that my big boy just completed. Seconds later, I bumped into the Cat himself. I love it when my life comes full circle like that!


Today, we learned all about Peg + Cat, the adorable new preschool series that has an emphasis on math. I’ll speak more in detail about this awesome new show, but I’m especially excited about the great music, digital platforms that will parallel the show and of course, the super funny characters, Peg and her BFF, Cat.


Along the way, I met Mr. Steve and Wilder Valderrama, too! I have much much more to report, but will share as soon as I get back!


Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Let the Magic Begin #DisneySMMoms

by Jen Rabulan-Bertram
Editor’s Note: I wrote this on the plane, on my phone, as the babe slept in my arms. How I managed that with my normally happy/angry screamer, I’ll never know, but I’ll take it!

Everyone needs a little magic in their lives, right? In the midst of chaos and specialists appointments, I was so fortunate to get a little bit of pixie dust thrown our way—in the form of an invite to Disney’s Social Media Moms. Goodness knows, we needed it.

Disney SMMoms

Having attended the 2011 DisneySMMoms, my family is well aware of the magic the Disney Parks team has a knack for throwing.

IMG_0357

We’ll get an inside look at what’s coming up for the Disney brand and their partnerships, as well as convene to listen to social media mavens who have made their mark in their fields and the social media realm.
This time we have our tough as nails and loud as anything tot in tow. 2011 was my husband and older boy’s first visit, and of course my first visit as a parent. So much has happened in those short 2 years; namely, the addition of our very storied baby boy. Because if baby’s special needs, we asked my parents to accompany us, which in itself, will make things a little more magical.

Unlike our last #disneysmmoms trip, this trip I was invited as opposed to registering. And so, even though i don’t have the most trafficked and update so sporadically, it’s such an honor to be tapped to be included in such an esteemed group. (All that tweeting accounts for something, I guess!) I’ve attended my share of conferences, but this one is much more intimate, so don’t mind me if you see me gawking at some of my favorite social media voices in person.

Disney, as always, has been working hard to ensure DisneySMMoms is an incredible experience. Even before we set foot at the park, all of the attendees received a Colora Spinner from American Tourister to ensure we #packmorefun.


And just the other day, Disney Interactive sent us a package full of props as a teaser for the new Story app for iPhone. I’ve yet to download or check it out, but it sounds like this iOs app helps families do as the name suggests: create stories. As a digital mama who tries to keep my pulse on new and innovative things for kids and families, the Story app sounds like it will be a great fit for this very storied family.


Even though we’ve had a rocky start thus far, in certain the stress, frustration and exhaustion from missing our flight will be forgotten once we get to the Happiest Place on Earth.

This year, we brought along my parents to enjoy Disney with us (and to help the husband with the kids while I’m in the conference.) So, being with my family, including my amazing parents, will truly magnify the magic of the Mouse!

I can’t wait to share the latest and greatest from Disney, so be sure to stay tuned. Join me on Facebook, Instagram, Vine and Twitter for up to the minute updates on the magic Disney has in store. Follow all the buzz at #disneysmmoms