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My family has loved the Hotel Transylvania franchise for years and when we saw the previews for this movie we were so excited! And my kiddos were even more excited when they heard that we were going to get to watch the pre-screening from the comfort of our home!
After hours of playing with toys anticipating our movie night, we cuddled up with our bowls of popcorn, cookies, and blankets and got ready for the big show! Yes, a lot like the beginning of the trailer below.
I’ll be honest, when I heard that Adam Sandler wasn’t going to be voicing Drac, I wasn’t sure what to expect but it was perfectly taken over by Brian Hull, I couldn’t even tell it wasn’t him – He did a phenomenal job!
The movie was adorable, the kids were laughing, we were laughing, and it was a memorable night that we can replay over and over again because it’s on Prime Video!! It was such a clever plot that was fun from start to finish and kept the kids entertained the whole time (which is a feat!)
The family bond Drac, his kids, and his friends share is so strong and is such a strong message that is important for all to see and hear – Such a great family movie with laughs and lessons. Wonderful for all ages!
This franchise never leaves you feeling like it’s dragging on, and I hope they come up with more! Watch this with your kiddos, you won’t be disappointed, and neither will they! ❤
Drac (Brian Hull) and Monster Johnny (Andy Samberg) in Columbia Pictures’ HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA: TRANSFORMANIA.
There’s nothing more convenient than having young kids and still being able to have a good ol’ fashioned family movie night from the comfort of your home (and not spending $15 on a single snack/drink).
To get the movie night started, I’ve attached a fun Activity Book for your kids to do while they’re amping up to watch! It’s fun to get them excited while you cook dinner!
(I was compensated for this post via a pre-screening of the movie, all opinions are my own)
My favorite new kitchen sidekick is Barilla’s Pesto Creamy Genovese. It literally pairs well with everything and even the kids like it because of its creamy and cheesy taste!
Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto is a versatile product that can be used in a variety of ways and does not need to be heated before use. Here are some of my favorite delicious options right now: Stirring into warm pasta and grains (one jar to one 16-ounce box of pasta), spreading onto sandwiches, toast, OR tortillas for taco night, marinating meats and vegetables, and using as a dip for veggies and pita chips!
To preserve the natural color of basil and the fresh aroma of Italian Cheese, Barilla minimizes the handling of ingredients and rapidly prepares their recipe in as little as three hours from the start of ingredient preparation to the tightening of the lid.
I’ll forever be a pesto lover, but the Barilla brand by far has my favorite ever. If you haven’t tried it yet you NEED to!! Like, NOW!
(I was compensated for this post, all opinions are my own)
All of my life I have struggled with extreme eczema and sadly I have passed it on to two of my three boys. So looking for something that works for all of our skin types, all of our sensitivities, and that is steroid-free was a huge challenge.
But I found Gladskin Eczema Cream through Mom’s Meet and it held a ton of promise with all of its positive reviews so I tried it out and fell in love! It’s creamy enough without being thick and pasty and it doesn’t burn my poor boys when I put it onto their aggravated rash areas.
I always carry a trial size with me in my car, now and make sure to keep a healthy stock in the boys’ rooms.
If you’ve always struggled with eczema and need to try something new during this dry/transition time of year then TRY Gladskin, you won’t be disappointed. And you’ll save 10% on your order on gladskin.com with code GLADMOM10 on their website.
(I was compensated for this post, all opinions are my own)
I’m all about eco-friendly, water-saving, fair trade certified companies – And one of my favorite clothing lines now is Pact, because they’re ALL of those things. Pact is an apparel company on a mission to make Earth’s Favorite™ Clothing. Their products are made of organic cotton—to support a healthy planet—and manufactured by a Fair Trade certified factory—to take care of the people on this planet. By using natural farming practices and contributing to Fair Trade initiatives, Pact creates clothing that is better for the world, and better for your family.
I bought matching pairs of them Dream Big Pajamas for the boys and it’s their favorite things to snuggle up and sleep in. They’re insanely soft, their prints are adorable, (or cool if you ask them about their shark jammies) and I feel better purchasing them clothing that is better for our Mother Earth (and still affordable!)
Pact Dream Big Pajamas are top-sellers and available in kids’ sizes 18 months to 10. They are made of soft, breathable, 100% organic cotton that is made without toxic chemicals and with 91% less water than conventional cotton. Pact’s cotton material is Fair Trade Certified and GOTS Certified Organic Cotton. Dream Big Pajamas provide a snug fit for safety, with a pull-on waistband and banded cuffs at the wrists and ankles. All Dream Big Pajamas for kids are made with a tag-less label on the back to prevent discomfort and skin irritation. The fabric is pre-washed and shrink resistant. Pact Dream Big Pajamas for kids typically retail for $30.
Save 20% on your first Pact purchase at wearpact.com with promo code MomsMeet20. Offer is valid until 12/31/21. (Note: Offer valid on first purchases only. Does not apply to sale items. Cannot be combined with other offers.)
(I was compensated for this post, all opinions are my own)
As a family traveler it’s exciting planning visits to places you’ve always wanted to see. But with kids in tow you’ll need to plan some kid-friendly excursions to keep the boredom woes at bay.
This list is a comprehensive guide to the best spots to take your kiddos while traveling in Denver that’ll surely make lasting memories, they’ll beg you to bring them back!
1. Denver Zoo – This zoo is stocked full of amazing exhibits, great restaurants and thrilling events. The built in aquarium is designed to feel like you’re walking into a muggy rainforest and the animals are so close the kids feel like they’re really in the wild!
2. Denver Aquarium – Experience interactive fun like never before. With tanks that have cut outs for kids to stick their heads into so it feels like they’re swimming with the sharks, “real” mermaids that put on beautiful shows while swimming with the fish, and a sting ray cove where they can feed and touch the sting rays the Denver Aquarium is a thrilling experience for children of all ages! *Did I mention they also have tigers?!
3. Colorado Railroad Museum – Have a train lover? I know I do! This museum has real trains built into the side of a mountain kids can experience the history and beauty of old stream engines (and even ride them!) Thomas the Train comes every September for a fun train ride around the train yard! As well as the Polar Express with reenactments of the entire movie – It’s serious fun for the entire family!
4. Butterfly Pavilion – Ever wondered what it would be like to have thousands of butterflies surrounding you while you take in the smell of tropical flowers? It’s s a constant reality when you’re at the Butterfly Pavilion! They have so many interactive and educational stations for children of all ages it’s an amazing way to kill a few hours while letting your kids get their wiggles out and their minds growing!
5. Denver Museum of Nature and Science – This is a favorite of my family’s. Three stories of incredible history, interactive exhibits, an IMAX theatre and a planetarium. If you’re looking for a way to spend an entire day with the kids this is the spot. With a built in cafe and restaurant, a rotating travel exhibit area, and a kid’s indoor playground this is the placetobring the kids. Seriously one of our favorites!
6. Children’s Museum of Denver – Newly revamped and reimagined this eclectic museum has the coolest places for kids to play, learn and imagine. Another place to spend all day and wear them out (win-win!)
7. Elitch Gardens – Like amusement parks? You’ll LOVE this place. Stocked full of rides for people of all ages, you’ll easily spend an entire day drinking beers, riding crazy rollercoaster and eating some of the best comfort foods you can find!
8. Water World – One of my favorites since I was a kid. An amazing water park filled with some of the best rides and best funnel cakes Ive ever had. This is a MUST do on a warm summer day! Easy to spend an entire day here but definitely an unforgettable memory locale!
9. Denver Art Museum – Have an artsy kiddo? They’ll love the beautiful design of this building and even more beautiful sights inside (ha!). There is some gorgeous and unique art along with interactive STEM fun to keep kids engaged and happy 😉
10. KidSpace – STEM based play space for kiddos. An amazing spot for them to climb, play, learn and experience science with hands on exhibits. Also, it has a built in coffee shop, how cool is that?! It’s a spot we frequent for sure!
11. Little Monkey Bizness Westminster – Another absolute favorite of ours for sure. We come here about once a week, because it also has a coffee shop, an art room, and huge inflatables for kids to get ALL of that crazy energy out. they even have a spot for infants so they don’t get trampled on 😉 You can save 10% off with code SIMPLYKARALIZ_fff.
Obviously, outside of the Denver metro area, there are a million other amazing spots to hit but these are some of our Denver favorites that we go to often!
Looking for great recommendations on places outside of the city? Then check out this amazing post on fun things to do in Breckenridge, CO over at Champagne on Deck!
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
These are the top 6 items I have on my list when it comes to packing my car for a road trip (Obviously there are TONS more and I’ll do a full comprehensive post whenever I get more time, but this is a good start list!) With kids, a road trip isn’t as glamorous looking as it is on TV but you can still really have a great time if you put in the effort to pack effectively and wisely!
Car Trash Can – An absolute necessity, that’s why it’s number one! Without a trash can your car will be the trash can and I promise it will drive you crazy, quickly. Make sure to clean your car out super well before you travel too, helps create the mindset that the car shouldn’t be made messy.
Car Caddy – This specific one is technically meant for diapers but I love it. It’s sturdy, cute, and handy! Having a one spot, handled carrier for snacks, motion sickness meds, water, gum, etc is amazing. Instead of being that parent swerving all over the place because you’re trying to find and throw back the snacks to the screaming kids, you’ll have a handy handle (ha) that you can simply hand back and they can sort amongst themselves. Easy peasy!
First Aid Kit – Maybe it’s the nurse in me (Cuz I literally have three bins in my trunk full of CPR masks, first aid, razor sharp shears, and more) but I couldn’t imagine not having an emergency first aid kit on hand. You never know what could happen on the road and you certainly don’t want to be unprepared for a medical emergency!
LARQ bottle – I posted this in my last travel necessities guide because I find it so crucial for any situation. It uses UV-C lights to kill bacteria, it has the capabilities of even making stream water drinkable. The survivalist in me couldn’t iagine not having that on hand. Being that water is the most essential thing in life next to oxygen, I highly recommend grabbing one – Seriously!
Travel Journal– They’ll get tired of their tablets and then, they’ll start telling you how boreeeed they are. So have other toys/books on hand! This one is great for being on the road. They can jot down their thoughts, play games and engage with their siblings using these journals and it’s really fun to see flourish.
Steering Wheel Table/Desk – Work on the road? This desk is amazing for those last minute meetings that pop up or if you are just stopping to grab some fast food and have no where else to eat because your car is packed (literally, ha!) This is seriously one of my favorite things to hand on hand all the time, when the babies pass out on a drive I pull over, grab my iPad and do some work while they sleep so I don’t disturb their schedule – This thing rocks!
I’ll be doing some more, like I stated above, comprehensive guides in the future just really wanted to put these out there because it’s almost traveling/vacation season and I know so many families would benefit from these items! I know we do!
What other items are must haves in your family? I’m literally always looking for more ways to efficiently travel with three boys!
I love Red Robin and Chili’s more than the next gal, but when you’re traveling and looking for a unique spot, you want something authentic and memorable. I’ve lived in Denver long enough to find the most amazing spots hidden in plain sight – And been desperate enough to try anywhere if that means making my babysitter time worthwhile, ha!
5. 740 Front– 740 Front St, Louisville, CO 80027 – $$
Built in 1904 this Louisville saloon restaurant has a lot of history with many stories to tell. But their greatest story is their phenomenal food. Known for their incredible seafood and steak, there are many amazing items to choose from so even the pickiest of eaters will find something they’ll adore. Their drinks are artfully handcrafted and their staff exudes sophistication. This is the perfect spot for a fancy night out for an anniversary, birthday, etc.
4. Ocean Prime – 1465 Larimer Street Denver, CO 80202 – $$$$
One of the best meals I’ve ever eaten was eaten here. Their food is incredible, their drinks are unique and dreamy, but their location is gorgeous. Right in downtown Denver you get an amazing view of Larimer Square that’s always lit up and always lively. This place is amazing if you’re looking for a classy dinner to impress and celebrate with a loved one. Try their lobster mac n’ cheese, seriously drool worthy.
Love this place. It is tucked into a cute little strip mall but packs a big punch. Amazing food, along with gluten-free options, patio seating while sipping on a cold, refreshing cocktail, and pleasing conversations are only a few of the amazing qualities this place has to offer. The owner creates unique and thoughtful menu items that make it a place to try and remember!
Owned by a former Olympic skier, Jack and his wife, Athan, own this incredible restaurant and created a training kitchen in order to support and employ people with developmental disabilities. Their kindness is not the only amazing thing they offer – Their unique and delicious menu keeps locals and travelers coming back time after time.
Literally, my number one favorite place to eat in Colorado. We’ve been coming for 6 years now and it’s become a tradition to take family and friends every-time they’re in town. Owned by Turkish native, Mesut, his restaurant is like a scene out of a Christmas lodge, but in the background, there is always Iron Maiden playing. An eclectic restaurant with American/Turkish foods will leave you full and happy. You’ll never experience anything quite like it anywhere else – When you come make sure to order his Mesut Burger (a traditional burger with a Turkish twist!) and his award winning Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich! Best place in Denver!
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
Traveling with children is amazing. They get to see and experience life in a whole different way when it’s right in front of them, rather than seeing it on a screen watching other people travel. But packing for them is quite a feat – Which is why I am not covering it in this post – ha! I will in another one, soon, though, promise!
This post is all about Mom/Dad. These are my top 7 travel must haves when it comes to packing. Everyone is different but I know this list will definitely resonate with a few!
1. Eco-Friendly Pill Organizer– I take a few different vitamins and medications so worrying about my basic pill organizer popping open in my checked bag is a real anxiety. This food-grade plastic, cereal shell fiber case is eco-friendly and incredibly safe with it’s double locking feature. The large capacity is amazing for travel and even for having at home.
2. Fitbit Versa 3 – I don’t go anywhere without my Fitbit. It helps me ensure I’m getting the correct amount of steps in, lets me know if I’m getting an important call whilst driving and keeps me up to date with my sleeping / stress habits. The new versa 3 is pretty amazing with all of it’s new software and capabilities!
3. Larq Self Cleaning Water Bottle – This is my favorite water bottle ever. I have a little bit of a water bottle obsession and it has ended with this one. It uses UV-C light to neutralize bacteria in water. That means you could even gather stream water and it’ll disinfect it to make it safe for drinking. That’s survivalist gear at its best! I love this bottle, seriously, and take it with me everywhere. It even has a little carrying sleeve for convenience.
4. American Tourister Luggage – I loveee hardshell luggage bags. I get so anxious that it’ll be crushed or damaged when it’s in the plane’s cargo hold but having a hard-shelled bag makes me feel so much better knowing my souvenirs aren’t getting crushed ;P This bag is cute, has amazing wheels that don’t get caught when you’re trying to wrangle the kids and again, it’s hard-shelled!
5. Samsung Galaxy Pro Buds– Chances are whether you’re taking a flight or going on a road trip, your kids will be watching their tablets in order for you to gain a little bit of your sanity back. If that’s the case pop in some of these amazing ear buds and treat yourself to some self-love with a favorite song, an audio book or that podcast everyone has been talking about.
6. Selfie Stick Tripod– OKAY. Before you start virtually throwing things at me, hear me out… You’re on a trip by yourself with your three kids and you want to take a photo of all of you (cuz you never get photos of yourself with them) but there’s no one around. This tripod holds all types of phones, cameras, and video devices using different heights and angles! It comes equipped with a remote so there’s no running back and forth and then there’s the selfie stick aspect which you don’t have to use if you don’t want to. 😉
7. Hanging Travel Toiletries Bag – I used this on my last trip for the first. time. ever. I have no clue how I made it this long without using one of these. Having your toiletries, medicine, makeup and jewelry in ONE place where your kids cannot reach is a literal GAME CHANGER. If you don’t have one already I highly recommend investing in one. These’ll last you years and you’ll never go back to separate toiletries bags!
What other must haves have you found? I’ll be doing a Kid’s Travel Must Haves soon because that one is a doozy.
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
Galveston is by far one of my favorite places in the world. With its Texan vibes and island carefree spirit it’s the most comfortable vacation destination for my family and I. It feels like home! This last month, I took my 5 year old, Hudson, on a Mommy and Son vacay to stay on the island because he’s never seen the beach before. By the end of it, he was begging me not to take him back to Colorado.
We only stayed for 4 days but it was enough to leave a lasting impression. Although we weren’t able to do everything, I made sure we still got a good chunk of touristy stuff in along with just beach chillin’ but I wanted to share a few things we did and didn’t do that I know would make for a memorable experience for your littles!
Where to stay:
Casa Del Mar – We had the cutest little condo right on the beach with incredible views and ocean winds that blew across your lanai in the mornings while you’re enjoying your first, or second, cup of coffee. The rooms were decorated super beachy and colorful so when you settled in for the evening you still feel as if you are soaking in the island vibes.
It comes equipped with 1 bedroom and 1 full bath that is fully stocked with everything you need. The 1 bedroom has a queen sized bed and a twin bunk bed is located in the main hallway, perfect for kiddos (and some peace and quiet at night).
Interested? Call or text Reed at 412-337-9963 and he’ll hook you up with an amazing rate and the housekeeper Traci will make sure your every request is promptly taken care of, day or night! An amazing place with an even more amazing staff!
Where to eat:
Rainforest Cafe – Obviously, the rainforest cafe is a HUGE hit with the kids. The deep forest ambiance and animatronic animals excite the kids while they dig into their rainforest themed foods and mega sized souvenir cups.
Fish Tales – Amazing food across from the Pleasure Pier. The balcony gave for amazing views of people buzzing about on the beach and making memories in the amusement park. Seriously.. The best clam chowder I’ve ever had.
Downtown Aquarium at Kemah – A little pricey but worth it being right on the water and inside an actual aquarium where you can see live fish and shark swimming about your meal. Also, another mega sized souvenir cup to take home, yippeeee…. But still, delicious.
Where to be touristy:
The Strand – A fun and classy shopping strip filled with eclectic and fun stops placed in older buildings. It’s a relaxing, fun place to grab a drink, some Galveston Island souvenirs and a dipped apple from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory!
The Beach – Of course you’ll have to stop at the beach. We went everyday for hours. Sitting on the shore, eating McDonalds while watching the waves crash, scavenging for seashells and crabs, building sand castles and swimming in the water. It’s an incredible place to relax, unwind and watch the pure elation in your kid’s face. I’ll never forget his face when he built his first sand castle.
Where to visit:
Kemah Boardwalk – An amusement park on the beach. It’s an amazing way to take in the views and get some funnel cake while riding a carousel. There’s face-painting, carnival games and a train that takes you around the boardwalk. It’s an amazing place to spend some money, have some laughs and tire them kiddos out 😉
Moody Gardens – We didn’t get a change to stop here, sadly. But we heard nothing but amazing reviews. Placed inside three pyramids are three different exhibits. Rainforest, Aquarium and Discovery. Each of which hold unique experiences and attractions!
Galveston Ferry – In order to make it from Galveston Island to Port Bolivar you’ll need to take a ferry. An experience I’ve never had but loved it – You drive your car onto the boat and head up to the deck where you can watch the waves beneath the boat and the seagulls flying nearby. We even saw dolphins!
Schlitterbahn Water Park – Sadly this place was closed because Hudson has been wanting to go here for ages and it was even a little cold outside when we were there, so probably for the best! But check it out, it’s a huge water park known for it’s amazing rides!
If you choose Reed’s place at Casa Del Mar you’ll be equipped with beach chairs, beach towels, squirt guns, and more so no need to bring beach stuff! (Besides sunscreen 😉 )
Seashell bag. We got one from jane.com and it was the hit of our beach ventures. He was able to use his own little bag to hunt for shells and he felt so cool wrapping his bag around him and venturing out.
Flip-flops AND normal shoes. Cuz, walking and beach combing.
Wind-breaker. Sometimes that ocean wind is CRAZY cold. You never know 😉
We LOVE thisSand Castle pack. Wasn’t cheap and made amazing castles!
This was such an amazing trip, so much so my son has already been asking to go back asap. I know I missed a ton of other amazing activities but with only a few days we didn’t have a ton of time to do everything. Add your favorites below so we can help spread the word!
s i m p l y k a r a l i z 