Archives for August 2019

Event Recap: Back-to-School with Nintendo

Nothing says nostalgia like Nintendo.

As a child growing up in ‘90s, I vividly recall playing video games for hours on end. From Super Mario Bros. to Paperboy to Castlevania, I have so many fond memories of playing a variety of games on the trailblazing system.

Fast forward to today and now my kids are getting a taste of that same fun. Although we don’t have any gaming consoles at home, both of them have had several opportunities to play and create their own video game memories.

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For example, this past weekend we were invited to attend a back-to-school event with Nintendo at their flagship New York City store. In celebration of the upcoming school year, attendees were encouraged to design their own pencil cases using exclusive Nintendo stickers, glittering gems and other eye-catching accessories. In addition, kids got the opportunity to demo the interactive Nintendo Labo: VR kit, and of course, play video games like Super Mario Maker 2 and more! Plus, they even got to meet the main character behind the iconic brand, Mario!

Even though the event was obviously geared toward kids, we parents/bloggers weren’t left out. In fact, we heard from Nintendo reps and learned about the new VR kit, code-centric games and the new parental control offerings to keep our kiddies’ playing time in check.

While we don’t own a Nintendo system, I’m seriously considering purchasing one (they absolutely love Mario Kart!). Many of the games are educational, improves problem-solving skills and are downright fun! Thanks to the parental controls, I can monitor their screen time and ensure that they’re maintaining a healthy balance.

My childhood wouldn’t be the same without those countless days and nights playing the latest Nintendo games with my cousins. I’ll forever cherish those priceless memories and hope that one day my kids will do the same.

Check out more pics from the cool back-to-school event!

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What are some of your favorite childhood video games? Do you use parental controls to monitor your child’s screen time?

Review: ‘Blue Man Group’ is Unspeakable Fun

When you think of Blue Man Group, you envision a few bald guys covered in blue paint with intense piercing eyes, right? Well, that’s true—but, there’s so much more to the award-winning show.

A unique blend of comedy, art, music, and technology, Blue Man Group has thrilled audiences for decades—without saying a word. In fact, I’ve wanted to see the unique ensemble since my high school days, but never did. My wait ended a couple weeks ago when I finally got to see if the show created by three guys (Chris Wink, Phil Stanton, and Matt Goldman) fresh out of college, was worth the hype. It was.

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My family and I were mesmerized by the show, which has an ongoing run at Briar Street Theatre in Chicago. Simply put, Blue Man Group is one of the most unpredictable, quirkiest and unconventional shows I’ve ever seen. If you tend to nod off or lose interest during live performances, you’re in luck. This show is incredibly interactive and engages all of your senses. From the hard-hitting drums to the awe-inspiring tricks and stunts, the show is a rollercoaster ride of entertainment for people of all ages.

Blue Man Group Chicago introduced new content Nov. 8, 2018. Photo credit Eric Klein

Blue Man Group Chicago. Photo credit Eric Klein

The secret to their long-running success? The power of non-verbal human connection and endless creativity.

Although Blue Man Group started in 1991, the act remains fresh with new stories, custom instruments and innovative technological advances to keep theatergoers curious and surprised.

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For example, this particular performance made subtle references to society’s addiction to social media and how it’s impacting real human connections. While they touched on this serious subject, the show remained lighthearted and fun throughout. My kids were completely enamored by the production and couldn’t stop talking about it on the ride home.

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With its countless outlandish antics, the show isn’t like anything you’ve ever seen! But don’t take my word for it. Join 35 million others and go see this global phenomenon—I guarantee you won’t regret it. Blue Man Group currently has domestic residencies in New York, Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas and Orlando and an international residency in Berlin.

For tickets and more information, please visit Blue Man.

Have you ever seen Blue Man Group? If so, what are your thoughts?