New England Day Trip - Story Land

Story Land - where fantasy lives!  Story Land is a safe and natural setting where children and their imaginations can run free. We provide a great value to our guests every day, with all-inclusive rides, shows & attractions, reasonably-priced admission ticket, FREE parking, and FREE pet kennels. Featuring birthday parties and character dinners, Story Land is a celebration for the young at heart. This world of fantasy is punctuated by the kaleidoscope of flowers and emerald fields of New Hampshire's beautiful White Mountains. Timeless characters like Humpty Dumpty, the Old Woman in the Shoe, the Three Little Pigs, and Peter Rabbit came to life here in 1954. This is one of my absolute favorite places to visit in New England.


When I was a kid, I lived for the few times we went there. So much fun for kids! I cannot wait to bring CJ here this summer. We are waiting for his cousin Zachie to come visit and then we are going.

Lucky for us all, they've got an awesome deal going on. Check it out: 
Save up to $28 on regular admission.





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Happy Birthday CJ!

Happy birthday to my superhero, CJ!



A few pictures to show how CJ spent his birthday weekend. :) Pin It

15 Book-Related Confessions

Go to Good Books and Good Wine to participate.

To get myself back into the swing of this blogging thing, I am going to participate in the 15 Day Book Blogger Challenge. Today's topic is: 15 Book-related Confessions. Here's my dirty book secrets...

1. I totally judge books by their covers. I cannot abide a terrible cover. And for the love of God do not give me a book that was turned into a movie book with the movie pictures on the cover. I will cut you.

2. I have thousands of books on my to-be-read list. Thousands. It makes me want to cry that there is absolutely no way in my life that I will be able to read all of the amazing books out there.

3. Going along with number 2, I refuse to read trashy anymore. I just can't waste time on it when there are so many well-written, amazing stories out there. Sorry 50 Shades of Grey.

4. I don't always finish books! The horror! I used to read absolutely finish every single book I started but I don't anymore. I'll give it 50-100 pages and if I can't get into it, I give up. I just don't want to waste time anymore reading books that I don't love. It is actually helping me wittle my to-read list down.

5. I read more than one book at a time. I generally carry more than one with me as well. I am just afraid that I'll be stuck somewhere in the mood for non-fiction but only have a novel with me, or vice-versa.

6. My Nook Color is missing. When packing, my husband threw everything in the kitchen into a box and now that box is stuck downstairs in storage somewhere. I want it back so baaad!

7. There are ten books on my night-stand. I got a ton of books out of the library for my "summer reading" list and I have read maybe two of them. In my defense, I also have a ton of reading for school. Booooo.

8. I have 25 books out from the library right now. Again, in my defense, half of those are CJ's because he can't get a library card until kindergarten. But 10 of those are mine.

9. I hoard books. I love them. I love the look of them, the smell of them, absolutely everything about them. If I haven't read a book I like the look of it on my shelf and if it is a book I've read and loved I have to save it. I also am collecting all the classics in fancy leather-bound editions. So I might be a book hoarder. I'm comfortable with it.

10. 97% of the time the book is ALWAYS better than the movie. It's true.

11. I will sob while reading a book. Some of my favorites, I will sob at the exact same part every single time. (Stay gold anyone?)

12. My entire house may be in disarray but I will go directly to organizing the bookshelves. I just love the way they look on the shelf and when they are organized they make me happy.

13. I am a book snob. It's the English teacher in me. But if you have never read any classics, I will judge you. Except for my brother-in-law who has only read two books in his entire life. For some reason I am ok with him. (Those books were Freakonomics and a Calvin and Hobbes book.) The classics are classics for a reason. Everyone needs to read them.

14. I can't separate books from their authors. If a book makes me angry, either because it sucks or because I love it so much (ahem, George RR Martin) I will become so angry at the author that I will just... be very angry. Eventually I'll give it up and continue to read. I can't hold a grudge.

15. I love giving books as presents. I will take my sweet time trying to find the absolutely most perfect book. So you should be my friend so I can buy you a book. :) Pin It

I'm a book worshiper, what are you?

I'm a cross between a book hoarder and a book worshiper. I'm also a multi-tasker. What are you?



Please include attribution to Laura E. Kelly with this graphic. (Click to view at original large size.)

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Liquid Planet Water Park And Zip Lines

Liquid Planet Water Park And Zip Lines is New Hampshire's Home Town Water Park perfect for young families. We are proud to have New England's largest spray ground perfect for the little ones to splash around and enjoy a day at a water park, while older kids can shoot down our four amazing slides or have an amazing water adventure on the huge floating slides on Crater Lake! Our dual 1000 feet zip lines let you and your best friend zip line side by side. Liquid Planet is surrounded by the beautiful natural elements of New Hampshire including tall trees and beautiful granite cliffs! Buy One GA Pass and Get One FREE at Liquid Planet Waterpark and Ziplines!

Liquid Planet Water Park and Zip Lines Pin It

It's Aliiiive

Guess what! I'm alive. :) Life has been INSANE but is finally settling back into a rhythm. Let's see what has happened. My hubby turned 30, his grandfather passed away, his dad got sick, CJ and both got sick twice, I started teaching first grade (WHAT!?), I finished another semester of grad school, we moved from NH to MA, and chaos has reigned supreme in our life. We still aren't completely unpacked since I only have Saturday to get it done and have to spend the rest of the days educating some children. I promise the blog will slowly but surely come back to life. Pin It

Summer Field Trip - Boston Harbor Tour

There's nothing like Boston at night, except maybe being on Boston Harbor at night. For a great deal, check out below.

Dedicated to providing the most impeccably luxurious and hospitable sailing experience in Boston, we here at Classic Harbor Line are looking forward to the privilege of escorting you on a breathtaking excursion aboard the most elegant sailing vessel in Boston Harbor: Schooner Adirondack III. Boston’s rich maritime history is best viewed from the water, so why not do it in style?

While out on the water on Bostons best boat tour, you will be treated to skyline view and Boston Harbor that cannot be captured any other way. This is the best way to go sightseeing in Boston!  So come on out, kick up your feet, and let the Classic Harbor Line crew do all the heavy lifting (and drink pouring) for you.

Sailing on the Adirondack III with us will provide a new perspective on the city of Boston for the first time visitor and the seasoned local alike! Whether buying tickets for one of our Boston Day Sails, Sunset Sails, City Lights Sails, or privately chartering the schooner for a special family or corporate event, you will be amazed by the comfort and beauty of Adirondack III. Like all of Classic Harbor Line’s fleet, the unmatched Adirondack III was built and is maintained by the Scarano Boat Building Company in Albany, NY.

My Readers Receive $10 off each ticket purchased at Boston Sailing. Use promo code FAMILY10.

 

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Look for the Helpers

I wanted to write something today about the terrible tragedy in Boston yesterday. I realized though that I don't have anything to say that hasn't already been said. It was a horrible day, spent worrying about loved ones who were in the area. I am very lucky that the people I knew who were there are all safe. Unfortunately that isn't the case for everyone. I am so very proud of the amazing people who sprang into action to help those in need. Seeing the responders and the everyday people who immediately ran towards the victims instead of away was absolutely amazing. Stories and stories of amazing deeds are what I am going to focus on. It may have been a terror attack, but to me, they failed. They showed me not terror, but how absolutely wonderful human beings can be.

Please don't spread rumors and hate about what happened yesterday. We still have no idea who was behind it. To make assumptions is to just to create a culture of fear and hate. That is the exact opposite of what we need. To put it simply, in the absence of credible information, who you assume is responsible says more about you than it does about anyone else. God bless Boston, and God bless America.

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A to Z Mini-Challenge #4 - April Showers

April Showers Bring.... May Flowers.

Read a book with a weather or flower-related topic or cover. 

As usual, use your discretion. Good luck!

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What's in the Bible Easter Story

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Too much

Me when my alarm goes off at 6am.

Between teaching full time for the first time ever, going to grad school full time, taking care of CJ, moving, planning a bachelorette party/ bridal shower, life has just gotten too hectic for me. Something has to suffer, and I'm afraid it is going to be this blog. I apologize, but it's just the truth.

I will continue to post, but it will be sporadic and random at best. I would love some guest posts if any of you are interested, just to keep things fresh. Hopefully I will be able to get into a routine and be able to get on here once in a while. Don't worry sponsors, your posts will be scheduled as promised.

I know Big Ang, I know!

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Wordless Wednesday - Easter Eggs!

Not sure what this face was for.

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Things I Found (11)

Politicians Reactions to Gay Children - Some good, some not so good.
Resources for Raising Girls Today

Easter Science for Kids - Using eggs, peeps, etc.

Lessons in Confidence from a 2 Year Old

Religious Easter Books for Toddlers

Easter Themed Math Activities

What makes a classic novel?

Kindle Fire Giveaway

7 Ways to Recognize Great Books

How to Save Money when Dining Out
The Steubenville Rape & Other Problems

Carrot Cake Monkey Bread
Five Ways Veronica Mars Ruined My Life - #6-Logan Echolls #7-Weevil

How to Grow your Own Crystal Geodes

Hubby knows. 

 

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Religious Easter Books for Toddlers

Looking for the perfect Easter book for your toddler's Easter basket? I got you covered. Today I'll have my favorite religious Christ-centered Easter books, then on Monday I'll have my favorite non-religious Easter books. I'll put a star next to CJ's favorites. The prices are from Amazon.

Religious
An Easter Gift for Me ($6.29) - This is a softly illustrated board book that very simply tells how Jesus was born for us, then died for us. Not scary or overwhelming for little ones.
What Is Easter? ($4.98) - Gently explains that Easter isn't about the bunny or the eggs, it is about Jesus. It is part of a whole series of "What is..." books.
The Easter Story ($4.99) - A board book that includes Jesus arriving in Jerusalem, the Last Supper, and the Resurrection.
The Story of Easter ($6.29) - This one is in CJ's Easter basket. It's a very simple board book with a carrying case for your little one. Another one that gently tells the story of Jesus and his resurrection.
An Easter Prayer ($8.99) - A board book telling how God is responsible for all the wonders of Spring.
God Gave Us Easter ($6.50) - Pape Bear explains to his little Cub how much God loved people that he sent his son to save us. Gorgeous pictures of the Arctic.
The Parable of the Lily ($7.19) - I love this one, so cute! Maggie throws a bulb she doesn't care about in the garden, forgetting about it. She is shocked when a lily appears on Easter morning. Through the lily she learns about the meaning of Easter.
The Story of the Easter Robin ($10.87) - Through the eggs on her windowsill, a little girl learns about God's love of all creatures.
Easter In The Garden ($11.95) - This one gets me right in the feels. A little boy is sad because his family's friend Jesus dies, then when he hears that Jesus is alive, he is overjoyed.
The Legend of the Sand Dollar ($6.29) - Kerry learns how the sand dollar can help teach about Easter.
The Berenstain Bears and the Easter Story - The cubs are obsessed with candy, so Mama Bear helps them learn the story of Jesus and his Resurrection. Pin It

Ten Books I Just Had to Buy, But Haven't Read

Linking up with http://brokeandbookish.blogspot.com/

Do you ever buy a book because you just absolutely had to have it, only to have it sit on the shelf for months, maybe even years? Good, I'm glad I'm not the only one. Here's ten books I had to buy the second they came out... but haven't gotten to yet.

1. Jane Austen Made Me Do It - Lauren Willig, author of the Pink Carnation series, wrote one of the Austen-inspired stories in this book. Since I love her and the Pink Carnation series, I had to have it. I read her story and maybe two or three others, but it just hasn't grabbed my attention. I might put it up on paperbackswap. (Unless one of you would like it, I'd be happy to mail it off to you.)
2. The Monsters of Templeton - This one appealed to me because I love the cover (Yes, I totally judge books by their covers) and because the story sounded intriguing. I read the first couple of pages but it just didn't grab me at that time. I'm sure eventually it will. 
3. Einstein : His Life and Universe - I think Einstein was an awesome guy, and since his bio got great reviews, I had to have it. I've read bits and pieces. It is just too big to read all at once. So every once in a while, I pull it off the shelf and give it a go. 
4. The Pillars of the Earth - I know that I will love this book once I get started. It has absolutely everything I love in a book, and I know Ken Follett is an amazing author. I think I'm just intimidated by its size. I know that it is going to take a long time to read, so I'm just not ready for that commitment right now. 
5. Pirate Latitudes - Michael Crichton was my favorite living author after Stephen King. So when they published the last book he'd written before his death, I got it right away. I still haven't gotten around to read it though. Hubby read it and liked it though. 
6. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks - I knew a little bit about Henrietta Lacks, and I found her story intriguing, so I got the book. Still haven't read it though. 
7. The True Story of Hansel and Gretel - I'm pretty sure I'm giving up on this book. I've gotten it two different times and then given it away because I haven't sat down to read it. It's time to let it go. 
8. The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate - I love the cover of this book and I know I will like it, just haven't given it a chance yet. 
9. A Death in Belmont - I have a weird connection to the Boston Strangler (not like an emotional connection or anything weird, he just killed a woman on the day I was born who lived in a house I eventually lived in). This book is partly about that woman and is written by one of my favorite authors Sebastian Junger, so I had to buy it. I'm just not emotionally ready for a psycho killer book though. 
10. American Wife - This one appealed to me because it is supposed to be loosely based on George W Bush's wife's life. It sounded interesting and had a pretty cover. I just haven't read it yet. Someday. 

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How to Blow Your Toddler's Mind - Elmo's Super Heroes Live!

One of my favorite things about being a mom is watching CJ's face light up with happiness. I love the moments where he sees something, hears something, or notices something for the first time. His little mind just gets blown away. He makes the greatest faces.

Last month we took CJ to a super special surprise. He had no idea where we were going. He probably just assumed we were going to Nana's house. We drove over to the Lowell Auditorium in Lowell MA. We managed to keep CJ from noticing the giant tour bus that would give away our secret. When we entered, there were balloons and toys and lots of souvenirs starring all of his favorite characters. We got him to his seat and then Dada went to go get him a surprise - a stuffed Bert and Ernie. CJ was content to watch all of the kids around him and snuggle with his new toys.

Then... his mind was BLOWN! He heard Big Bird's voice! He jumped on his chair and was looking around saying "ig ird! ig ird!!" Then the curtain came up and Ernie was there - "Nie! Nie!!"

Suffice it to say that Sesame Street Live was a hit with CJ. He could not sit down. He literally stood on his chair the entire time. (Don't worry, he is short and there was no one behind him.) He was yelling at the actors on stage "More, more!" When they would come out into the audience, it took all of our strength to  keep him from dive-bombing people to get to them.

He did get to see Ernie up close and personal though. He showed him his Ernie doll and Ernie put his hand on his head and said "That's me!" I'm not going to lie, I cried. Seeing CJ that happy got me all choked up. I'm getting verklempt just thinking about it. CJ still keeps talking about this moment. I'm pretty sure it is the best thing that ever happened in his life. If you ask him about it he will go on for hours "Nie touch my head. Nee says dat me!" It is the cutest and sweetest thing ever. I think the funniest part was that CJ kept yelling to the stage "Yes please!" I don't know if he meant more or thanks or what, but it was hysterical.

The show itself was actually really fun. It is all about healthy eating and healthy living. Poor Super Grover has lost his super-ness because he isn't taking care of himself. All of the characters teach him about eating properly, getting enough rest, etc. The show was entertaining to me as an adult, so obviously the kiddies loved it. So if Sesame Street Live is coming to your town, CJ and I definitely recommend that you go. They will love you forever. As you can see from the picture, I am officially the mom of the year.

His facial expressions kill me. He was sooooo excited! 

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Things I Found (10)

Me finding out I am going to be teaching a
class full of 6 year olds. 

So.... I got a full-time teaching job. Pending my background investigation/drug test/transcripts being received, by the end of this month I will have my own 1st grade class. Say whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat!? The current teacher is about to have twins. Most of the curriculum and lessons should be done, I just have to step in and give them. Oh and control a classroom full of 6-7 year olds. Yeesh. I am so scared. I fully imagined that next year I would be working in 4th, 5th, or 6th grade class. I definitely did not think that by the end of the month I'd be in the 1st grade full time. So as quiet as the blog has been for the last few months, it might get a little quieter.

Oh, btw GFC is Google Reader are going away on July 1st, so make sure you follow the blog some other way. There is a ton of options to the right. :)

Nursery Color Inspiration - No I'm not pregnant (yet) but these African-inspired nurseries are gorgeous!

10 Ways to Play this Weekend - Great Easter/St.Patrick's Day/ Spring is coming roundup

Best Toys for Energetic Toddlers - Isn't energetic just their natural state?

Silent Children are up to No Good - And other truths about motherhood.

Education in Finland - Fact or Fiction - Really interesting information. They don't have it perfect, but it is much better than here.
Put Down Your Snow Shovels And... - This is super cute.
What Happens When You Like Books More Than Anything Else in the World - Accurate.
Marilyn Monroe's Personal Library - She had good taste.

Source: 9gag.com viaMichelle on Pinterest

What Not To Write in a Letter to a Deployed Soldier

Over 3000 Indigenous Children Died in "Schools" - Genocide? What genocide? 

Luck of the Irish Outfit - I love all of her outfits, but I think this is one of my faves. 

New FTC Guidelines for Bloggers

My Latest Pins - Good stuff.

Basically.

I've been starting to get CJ into Disney movies.
He calls Genie "blue guy" and refuses to say Genie.

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