NJ Weekend Getaways: Holiday Family Fun at Ocean Casino Resort

One question I receive often as a blogger is, 'Do you have any ideas for weekend getaways?' Maybe you've already searched Reddit for weekend getaway ideas here in New Jersey but you're still looking for a fun family trip, especially during the holidays. Well, I found a place that you NEED to check out, perfect for a little Christmas magic. Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City has an amazing line-up of holiday family activities and offerings. I was able to check them all out myself, so read on for details and see why I think Ocean should be on your MUST VISIT list.

Easy DIY Thanksgiving Decor: Oreo Turkeys and More!

Last year I hosted Thanksgiving for my family, and I went into full-on Pinterest mode, searching party planning, decorating, and just Thanksgiving crazy! I had Thanksgiving Bingo planned and a Thankfulness jar complete with questions on paper leaves that everyone had to pass around and answer. I had goodie bags for every guest and a kiddie table that would make Martha Stewart proud. So from me to you, I share my Thanksgiving ideas. I hope they help. 

Dollywood: One Mom's Honest Review and Your Questions Answered

If you're looking for honest Dollywood reviews or if you're wondering if Dollywood is worth the trip (or even which season is best to visit Dollywood), you've come to the right place! We just returned from a road trip to Dollywood and SPOILER ALERT we can't wait to go back! Read on to see my tips for visiting Dollywood and what to expect, especially if you're planning on making it a road trip from New Jersey.

A Review of ABCmouse - Is It Worth It?

ABCmouse's Black Friday Sale is live! 

Before I tell you about ABCmouse.com, let me just point out that this is my honest review from a mom's point of view.  I was not  asked by ABCmouse to review their service and I paid for their service just like anyone else!! This post has become very popular, so I try to keep it updated with accurate information and suggestions.

*Added note: Be sure to read the comments left by my readers at the bottom of this post. Their experience and advice is just as helpful as mine! And feel free to add your own comments about successes (or failures) with ABCmouse. I update this post often and try to answer all questions. 

**Note that I do not approve comments regarding billing or credit card issues. I do not feel this is a safe forum to discuss those matters. Thanks for your understanding! 

** I always try to update this post with the most recent sales - usually around the holidays. Their latest sale is their Black Friday sale to promote their new ABCmouse 2. You can get a year's subscription to ABCmouse 2 for $45 a year (until cancelled) plus a year of ReadingIQ free. Sale runs now through midnight, 12/5/25. Link to sale here.  

DIY Thanksgiving Turkey Wreath

Thanksgiving crafts for kids are all over Pinterest, but this is one of my favorites! It's so basic and simple, it can even be done as a classroom project with young students. It makes a cute decoration for Thanksgiving and constructing it can keep the little ones occupied on a rainy (or cold!) day. It makes a cute gift for grandparents or teachers, and you can even personalize the turkey by adding a name across the belly or adding a little hat or bow.

Top Tips for Visiting Hersheypark Christmas Candylane and Hershey Sweet Lights

The Christmas season is one of my favorite times to make a weekend getaway or family trip to Hershey, PA. Hersheypark Christmas Candylane is Hersheypark's festive seasonal event, and there are so many fun things to do, experience and eat when you visit!  I've compiled a list of tips to help you maximize your visit to Hersheypark Christmas Candylane! You're not going to want to miss it.

*This post has been updated for 2025!

Easy Homemade Slow Cooker Applesauce

It's so easy to make your own applesauce, and this recipe is one of my favorites. Not only can you use it as a side dish or for the holidays, but it also makes a great dessert topping on ice cream! Try it yourself and see!

A Review of Hershey Sweet Lights and Hershey's Chocolate World (part 2)

If you haven't had a chance, please check out Part 1 of my two part blog series, Christmas in Hershey. In Part 1 I talked about Hersheypark's Christmas Candy Lane and The Hotel Hershey. Here in Part 2, I'll talk about Hershey Sweet Lights and Chocolate World, both of which I love. And please note, this is NOT a sponsored post. Since writing it I have become a part of the Hershey's Sweetest Families Panel, but when this was written, it was not sponsored. If you like my Hershey stuff (and I hope you do), be sure to check out my Hershey Insider Page for all of my Hershey posts.

Easy Turkey-Shaped Lollipops for Thanksgiving

Turkey suckers, turkey lollipops- whatever you call them, these Thanksgiving treats are so much easier to make than you think! They're a cute, quick way to show some gratitude to friends and family, or just end your meal with a sweet treat.

Halloween Hits Different Now

Truth be told, I get a little depressed on Halloween. I know people usually reserve their depression for the bigger holidays like Christmas or Mother's Day. Those holidays can be really hard for many reasons. But for me, it's Halloween. As soon as I turned 50, Halloween just hit different. But it's actually been a slow build-up to Halloween depression over the years. Maybe you can relate.

PLANET SNOOPY at Dorney Park: A Mom's Review and Tips for Visiting

Wondering if Planet Snoopy is worth the money, or if it's right for your little one? We're venturing out of the Garden State again, this time to explore Planet Snoopy inside of Dorney Park in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Who doesn't love Snoopy? The absolute cuteness of this park will make your heart melt.

*This post has been updated for 2025!

10 Fun Fall Activities to Try at Ort Farms: New Jersey Fall Fun for Everyone!

If you're looking for fun things to do this Fall, look no further! I have the perfect Fall day trip planned for you, and it takes place at Ort Farms!

4 Of The Best Family Fun Activities All Ages Will Enjoy

The secret to a fun day out with the family is doing an activity that everyone (no matter what their age) will enjoy. You can find a range of these activities and day trips below, and they should suit almost  every age, from 9-90! Read on to find out what they are. 

A Review of TREESCAPE Aerial Adventure Park in Vernon, NJ: Tips, Suggestions and Advice for Your Visit

If you're looking for some outdoor fun in New Jersey or searching for a day trip that includes some physical activity, check out TreEscape Aerial Adventure Park in Vernon! We just returned from a fun excursion here and we can't wait to go back. Come see what you'll experience during your visit, and
be sure to scroll down for my 4 minute video of our trip. You can also grab my TreEscape Aerial Adventure Park promo code for tickets!