Arts and Entertainment

GIVEAWAY: Win Tickets to ‘Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live!’ in Brooklyn

November 2, 2016

If you live in the New York area and have a toddler in your life, keep reading!

The super bowl equivalent for the preschool set is coming to a neighborhood near you. Yep, “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live!” will be center stage at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn on November 26th (2:30pm and 6pm).

Growing up in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, “Mister Roger’s Neighborhood” was a fixture on my family’s TV set. The educational program was familiar and comforting – thanks to the friendly star of the show, Fred Rogers. His gentle demeanor and upbeat attitude coupled with his smooth delivery of information prepared me for school, and essentially, the world around me.

Tickets are available for purchase here, starting at $22.

Back then, there weren’t a gazillion channels to choose from or online streaming services, heck, the Internet as we know it today didn’t even exist. So, when I heard that the show was being revamped to appeal to the new generation of young viewers back in 2012, I was thrilled—especially since my daughter had just turned two. She watched the show religiously with Daniel in his famous red sweater and has now passed that torch on to her baby brother.

Our family is excited to see the live theatrical production later this month. I’m sure it will be packed with educational tidbits, dancing, music and surprises!

**GIVEAWAY**Want to see the show too? If you’re in the NYC area, you could win tickets to see it at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn. Simply leave a comment below telling me why your child would love to see “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live!” or share your favorite childhood program/cartoon when you were growing up. Also, feel free to tweet me at @BrownGirlGumbo too! One lucky winner will be randomly selected and win four tickets to the show on November 26th. The winner will be chosen on November 21st and notified by November 22nd.

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 3 Comments

Preschoolers Rejoice! PBS Kids Now Available Through Amazon Channels

October 25, 2016

This past Saturday my kids were treated to a PBS Kids event they won’t soon forget.

Thanks to the recent expansion between Amazon Channels and the kid-centric public broadcasting network, the two companies celebrated with a fete fit for pint-size kings and queens.

As of last week, Amazon Prime members can now access over a thousand episodes of PBS Kids programming to keep little ones entertained and educated. For only $4.99 a month, the subscription includes access to shows that support social-emotional development and literacy skills, as well as science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills.

Held at Fishbowl at Dream Hotel in Midtown, the event was swarming with “celebrities.” Upon entering, my kids were greeted by top-notch talent—ahem, several characters from some of their favorite PBS Kids’ series like “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” “Nature Cat,” and “Dinosaur Train.” The ordinarily swanky space was transformed into an inviting, kid-friendly venue. From bowling, to face painting to skeeball, the event was a fun-filled afternoon for the entire family.

As an Amazon Prime member and PBS Kids fan, I’m thrilled that my toddler will be able to watch even more of his beloved shows.

PBS Kids has been producing enriching shows for over two decades and will continue to educate young viewers in the digital age with the help of partners like Amazon.

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If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can sign up for a free 7-day trial today! Visit Amazon for more information.

Does your child watch PBS Kids? If so, what’s his/her favorite program?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

Sprout’s New Animated Series ‘Dot.’ Explores Technology for the Preschool Set

October 21, 2016

Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending the New York City screening of Sprout’s new animated show “Dot.” Held at the hamburger and milkshake hotspot, Black Tap, the event was one for the books…literally.

Based on New York Times best-selling author Randi Zuckerberg’s children’s book of the same title, the celebration for the original series was decked out to perfection. The event’s producers made sure to cross their T’s and dot their I’s. From photo booths to custom milkshakes to a kid-centric hair extensions station, the afternoon wasn’t short on details.

While the event was well executed, the show matched that same level of excellence. Centered on “Dot,” the title character, the series explores the digital world through the eyes of the smart and tech-savvy 8-year-old girl. She takes young viewers along for fun adventures as she satisfies her inquisitive nature and desire to discover new things. Like most school-age children, Dot uses technology to learn, explore and play.

As a mom of a three year old and six year old, I’m thrilled that “Dot.” is bridging the gap between children’s programming and technology—and I’m not alone. In fact, based on a recent study conducted by Sprout, 62 percent of the 700 parents surveyed felt tech enhanced their child’s development and learning.

Whether we embrace or push it way, technology is a part of our lives and it’s only going to become more integrated. I believe a character like Dot who’s curious and tech-savvy will serve as a great example for children like my daughter who enjoy STEM-centric content and aspire to someday contribute to those fields. As we know, young girls and women are still being underrepresented in these areas and that has to change.

“I created Dot. to be a relatable character that helps educate parents and kids about the importance of balance when it comes to tech, and to empower girls to be vocal and involved in technology,” Zuckerberg said in a release.

You never know what will sprout in a child’s mind and this could be the very series that sparks new science and math interests.

My kids are looking forward to “Dot.” and with Sprout’s track record for producing engaging and educational original shows, I’m sure it’s going to be another slam-dunk series for the 24-hour preschool network.

Sprout’s “Dot.” premieres Saturday, October 22nd at 11am EST/8am PST. Will you be tuning in?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

Color Me Happy: Doodling to Reduce Stress

October 12, 2016

Who said coloring books were just for kids?

For the past few years, coloring books have become popular among the older set. Adults are now realizing that drawing in swirly shapes and cool doodles can be an easy and cost-effective stress reliever.

And now that chilly weather has arrived, it’s the perfect time to tap into your inner child and unleash your creativity. Curling up on the couch with a coloring book in the fall can be the perfect antidote to a bad day.

“Bouffants & Broken Hearts” by Kendra Dandy available here, $16

For me, I enjoy coloring books that are whimsical, playful and simply speak to me. Right now, I’m totally obsessed with Kendra Dandy’s, “Bouffants & Broken Hearts.”

Fashion and pop art inspired, the book takes coloring to new, imaginative heights. Being a beauty buff, adding color to lipstick tubes and tropical fruit instantly ignites my soul. There’s something about putting colored pencils to the blank, outlined pages that produces a calming sensation. Her brilliant, quirky artistry allows me to escape the day’s hardships and unwind. I’ve already colored a few pages and can’t wait to fill in more of the funky prints.

If you’re looking for a relaxing and therapeutic way to spend some me-time, pick up this coloring book.

We can all add beauty to our lives, one pencil or crayon stroke at a time.

Do you enjoy coloring books as an adult? How do you unwind after a hectic day?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Book, Book Reviews, Books | Leave a Comment

Farm Fresh Festival Promotes Healthy Lifestyle for Kids

September 21, 2016

This past weekend, my family and I had the pleasure of attending the first Farm Fresh Festival for Kids here in New York City. Held at South Street Seaport, the event was created to inspire healthy habits, featuring farm-to-table foods. The one-day celebration was the perfect way to usher in the new school year.

Organized by the Generation Fresh Foundation, Howard Hughes Corporation, Fresh Kids and a host of community volunteers, entertainers, authors and small business owners, the event was a smorgasbord of fun.

Packed with tons of interactive and experiential discovery zones, kids were able to explore how their food is grown to actually making their very own healthy snacks. From small farm animals to hands-on cooking demos, children in attendance were treated to a ton of engaging activities that promoted a healthy and happy lifestyle. Throughout the space, children (and adults!) were able to snack on Fresh Kids pretzels, popcorn and veggie straws – my kids’ favorites.

These tasty nibbles were GMO-free and contained no artificial coloring or flavors – making them a win-win. The event also offered a sports zone where kids were encouraged to get moving. Not only did the festival promote the importance of being healthy and active, it also cultivated kids emotionally. Through the Kindness Corner, children were able to write notes to sick hospital patients, allowing them to show compassion for others.

Plus, the festival also served as a benefit to raise funds for non-profit organizations working in NYC to fight childhood obesity, hunger and poor nutrition.

My two little ones couldn’t get enough of petting the farm animals and playing games, but for me the highlight was meeting Haile Thomas, a bright young lady who is a health advocate for children. At just 15 years old, she’s also a vegan chef and founder of The Happy Organization, where she educates students about the importance of healthy eating and more.

The all-day affair was surely one that my kids and I won’t soon forget. We walked away with awesome tips on healthy eating, quick-and-easy recipe ideas and a wealth of knowledge about brands and vendors that offer healthier snacking options.

With so many children being inactive and glued to their tablets and eating unhealthy snacks, the event was a reminder that we have to fuel our children with the proper nutrition they need to succeed.

How do you keep your kids active and excited to eat healthy foods?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 1 Comment

Get the Look: Taraji P. Henson’s Emmys Beauty

September 19, 2016

This cookie never crumbles.

Taraji P. Henson who plays “Cookie” on Fox’s hit show Empire, stunned at the 68^th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday.

Although she didn’t snag the coveted lead actress in a drama award for her work on the music-centric series, she certainly won top honors for her style and beauty game. Her makeup artist Ashunta Sheriff delivered the goods when it came to her flawless skin and gorgeous makeup.

“Getting ready for the Emmys is actually a fun process,” Ashunta said in a release. “Taraji is very zen and relaxed, it’s the glam team who’s not. We listen to great music and laugh, but most importantly she makes sure we have fun.”

And that fun, laidback environment paid off. Taraji, who recently launched a cosmetics collection with M.A.C, beamed with beauty as she graced the red carpet and stage. For her yellow ensemble, Ashunta kept her palette earthy and mellow to not compete with the bold Vera Wang gown.

Ashunta shared how she created her gorgeous look and how you can get it too!

SKIN

*I prepped her skin by using DERMAFLASH, which allows me to get the highest level of exfoliation plus remove unwanted peach fuzz so skin care products work ten times better.

*I used Kate Somerville Goat Milk De-Puffing Eye Balm to decrease puffiness and hydrate eyes. Then I used the brand’s DermalQuench Liquid Lift and Quench Oil Free Hydrating Face Serum. Both of these products work together to plump, hydrate and give skin that superior radiant glow.

*I applied Dior Airflash CC Primer to create an even canvas for makeup application. I love that is also has a radiance booster.

*Next, I used Perfect Blend by Ashunta Sheriff in Tan to create a natural, glowing, contoured and lifted canvas.

*I set her makeup with Milani Prep + Set + Glow Transparent Face Powder using a MAC powder brush.

EYES

*For eyes I wanted a soft rose glow affect so I used Taraji’s MAC Collection Highlight The Truth on the lid just tapping with my finger and using a MAC 266 angle brush on lower lash line for a soft smokey affect.

*Then I added Taraji Glow, a coppery gold highlight in corner of the eyes and center of eyes so they popped.

*I added Penultimate Eye Liner from Taraji’s MAC collection to give a tight precise line on the top lash line and then added two coats on top and bottom lashes with Haute and Naughty Tooo Black Lash Mascara.

FINISHING TOUCHES

*For cheeks I used Highlight The Truth from Taraji’s MAC collection on cheekbones and then followed up with Taraji Glow for highlight.

*I lined lips with MAC Cork Lip Liner then added Strip Me Down Matte Lipstick, a gorgeous nutty nude color. I added a soft pink gloss only in the center of the lips from Dior called Jersey Pink Addict Collection.

*I finished the look with MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ and I added Caudalie Divine Oil on her body along with Kate Somerville Quench Oil for the ultimate body glow.

What was your favorite Emmys moment? Are you excited that Empire returns for a third season this Wednesday?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Beauty | 1 Comment

An Enchanted Experience: Cirque du Soleil—Toruk

September 14, 2016

Some things are just so beautiful that they take your breath away — leaving you searching for the words to fully justify their magnificence.

That’s exactly the case when it comes to describing the experience that is Cirque du Soleil: Toruk—The First Flight.

I had been looking forward to attending the show ever since the invitation popped up in my inbox a few weeks ago. Unfortunately, the days preceding opening night, I had fallen ill with the flu. Thankfully, the night of the show I was well enough to make the three-block trek to the Barclays Center.

From wondrous waterfalls to lava spewing craters to amazing acrobatic feats, the show was packed with fanciful performances and stunning sets. The light displays and set designs were so spectacular that my daughter incessantly asked if what she was seeing was “real.”

Plus, the costumes and masterful puppetry were spellbindingly good. The show was akin to a beautiful dream coming to life right before your eyes. It’s no secret that the imagination and sheer talent needed to bring this show to life had to be extraordinary. I tip my hat to the entire team who made the experience an evening to remember.