Brown Girl Gumbo

Disney’s ‘Moana’ is a Music-Filled Gem with an Empowering Message

November 25, 2016

There’s no denying the power of Disney movies.

From “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” to “Finding Dory,” Disney’s animated films transport audiences to a magical world that’s typically filled with music, valuable lessons and of course courageous, strong characters—leaving you feeling happy, empowered and optimistic. That winning formula remains in place with the new release of “Moana.”

Last week, my kids and I were invited to a special preview screening hosted by The Moms and sponsored by Subway. Thanks to the “eat fresh” fast-food chain, the kids had a healthy sandwich, fresh fruit and juice to enjoy before the movie. After noshing on the tasty bites, they were excited to finally see the animated film on the big screen. Admittedly, I was looking forward to it too since I had learned about the movie earlier this year at the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration.

And we were in for a treat!

The movie opened with an adorable baby Moana, the lead and title character. Disney has a knack for creating lovable younger versions of characters that grow into the strong protagonists.

Disney

Moana is indeed a strong girl. Voiced by actress Auli’i Cravalho, she is an iron-willed leader determined to expand her horizons despite her father’s well-intentioned reservations. Without spoiling the story, she goes on a quest to help her village, which requires her to go on a dangerous voyage beyond the ocean’s shore. While on her journey, she encounters a friendly former demigod named Maui, played by actor Dwayne Johnson aka “The Rock.”

Together they take viewers on a fun, action-packed musical adventure that explores ancestry, bravery, friendship, and self-exploration.

These coconut pirate action figures and charm bracelets are a few of the Moana-inspired toys that come with Subway’s Fresh Fit for Kids meals.

The story was inspiring and I especially loved that Moana was a young girl of color that children can look up to. I applaud Disney for showcasing more diversity in their animated series and feature films. It’s so important that they see positive and dynamic characters that look like them on screens, big and small. My daughter is now obsessed with Moana and has added a few Moana-inspired items to her Christmas list! Oh, and I haven’t been able to get the catchy tune, “You’re Welcome,” out of my head since seeing the movie. It’s an ear-worm that I welcome!

If you’re looking for a feel-good, inspiring movie for your kids (especially daughters) this is a can’t-miss film!

“Moana” is now showing in theaters nationwide.

What’s your favorite animated Disney movie?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Travel & Lifestyle | Leave a Comment

Kids Will Go Crazy for This Easy Thanksgiving Dessert

November 23, 2016

If you’ve got the beans, greens, potatoes and tomatoes ready for Thanksgiving, but are still stumped on what to serve the kids for dessert don’t fret; I’ve got you covered!

Why not whip up a batch of yummy Apple Pumpkin Spice muffins made with GoGo squeeZ’s seasonal (Apple Pumpkin Spice) applesauce? These sweet and cinnamon-y pastries are the perfect alternative for the sugar-laden treats that are typically presented during the holidays.

The recipe is easy, tasty and most importantly—healthy. The all-natural applesauce is a hit for moms because it’s made with real fruit and doesn’t have any of those unpronounceable ingredients or artificial flavors.

GoGo squeeZ Apple Pumpkin Spice Applesauce available here, prices may vary.

Plus, if your kids are like mine, simply mentioning the popular fruit-filled pouches will make them jump for joy. So, imagine their delight when they learn that their favorite snack will serve as the main ingredient for a delicious dessert. Trust me, you’re going to score major points for adding these muffins to the menu.

My kids are excited to prepare (and gobble) this simple recipe on dinner’s biggest day and I couldn’t be more thankful.

Below, find the foolproof recipe:

GoGo squeeZ Apple Pumpkin Spice Muffin Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups whole-wheat flour
2 cups oats
3 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup water
3 pouches of GoGo squeeZ Apple Pumpkin Spice
Oil or cooking spray

Instructions:

*Preheat oven to 350°F.

*Grease muffin pans (24 total muffins).

*Mix all dry ingredients (except for nuts).

*Mix wet ingredients and slowly add to dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly.

*Fill muffin cups 2/3-3/4 full.

*Bake for approximately 25 minutes.

*Enjoy delicious, scrumptious Apple Pumpkin Spice Muffins!

What are some of your Thanksgiving dessert staples?

Category: Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | Leave a Comment

‘¡CUBA!’ Opens at the American Museum of Natural History

November 22, 2016

This past Friday, my kids and I were able to get a sneak peek of the American Museum of Natural History’s newest exhibition, ¡CUBA! While they were pretty unfamiliar with the country, I was excited to learn about the place where millions of people call home and is less than 100 miles from Florida’s shores. And I was in for some surprises!

If you think Cuba is all about cigars and sandwiches, think again. The can’t-miss exhibit showcases the island’s incredibly rich culture and awe-inspiring biodiversity.

Visitors are immersed in all things Cuba immediately upon entering the space. From the country’s iconic pastel-colored vintage cars to its mouth-watering cuisine, the exhibition explores the island nation’s traditions, history, unique nature and promising future.

The exhibit opens with life-sized portraits of modern Cubans paired with excerpts from interviews, offering a chorus of voices from the area and abroad, young and old, urban and rural, pragmatic and optimistic. This inspiring display sets the tone for the entire exhibition.

Modeled after a winding boulevard, the main space serves as a striking replica of Cuban street life. With a bicycle and fruit stand in the middle of the floor, a place of worship, cigar shop and a common store surround the area. There are also detailed native dishes such as rice and beans on display so visitors can really get an up-close-and-personal look into the lives of Cubans and their food. The grub looked so good and real, my son wanted to take a bite!

As you walk further into the exhibit, guests are treated to amazing, bright and bold posters created by contemporary Cuban artists, which were commissioned to advertise plays, films, festivals, and concerts from the past decade. This section of the exhibit also has an interactive component where visitors can choose sculptures, paintings or performance art to be projected on the wall. My daughter found that to be a really cool element.

Courtesy of AMNH

Being the largest island nation in the Caribbean (it’s comprised of over 4,000 islands and keys), Cuba is home to 11 million people whose roots can be traced to indigenous people, Spanish colonists, African slaves, and immigrants from the Philippines, China, Europe, the Canary Islands, Jamaica and Haiti.

Cuba’s widespread diversity amongst its citizens isn’t where the diversification stops; it also boasts a wide-ranging variety of endemic plants and species.

Courtesy of AMNH

The spacious exhibit also showcases ancient animals that once roamed the area in caves and wetlands, as well as those who still reside throughout the island today. From owls to alligators, the creatures on display are so extraordinarily life-like, my daughter was convinced they were real! I assured her that they were simply replicas, but she was steadfast in her observation. Those intricate fine points are what make the exhibition so impressive.

Courtesy of AMNH

“We really want to surprise our visitors with details about Cuba that they’ve never thought about before, with Cuba! co-curator Chris Raxworthy, curator-in-charge of the American Museum of Natural History’s Department of Herpetology,” said in a release.

“We hope this exhibition relays an understanding of who the people of Cuba are, how the island nation is biologically unique, how it is connected to the world, and what it’s like to live in Cuba now.”

If their goal was to create a space where Cuba was exquisitely brought to life and visitors could get a glimpse into what the island nation is all about, mission accomplished.

Courtesy of AMNH

¡Cuba! is open now through August 13, 2017. Click here for more information.

Are you planning to visit the exhibition? What’s your favorite museum and why?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Gumbo Mix, Misc. | Leave a Comment

Quinoa Pilaf: This Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish Will Become a Thanksgiving Staple

November 17, 2016

With Thanksgiving just a week away, it’s time to get your classic recipes together and if you’re feeling adventurous, gather up a few new ones too.

Why settle for serving the same familiar fare for what will probably be your family’s biggest feast of the year? Instead, treat them to some delicious new side dishes that will keep them digging in and coming back for seconds. Plus, it’ll give you an excuse to tap into your inner Top Chef.

This year, I’m stepping outside of my cooking comfort zone by preparing a surprisingly satisfying quinoa and dried cranberries dish. While attending Stoneridge Orchards‘ fall tasting last month, I was introduced to the recipe and was blown away by the texture, taste and most of all the simplicity of the dish’s preparation.

Stoneridge Orchards Dried Cranberries available here, $4.19

Lisa Adams, a New York City-based personal chef and blogger, demonstrated how to make the grain-centric meal in just a few steps. The combination of quinoa, dried cranberries, cilantro, pumpkin seeds resulted in a delightfully savory, restaurant-worthy dish—perfect for the vegetarians and vegans at the table.

Who knows? If it’s a success, maybe it’ll become a side dish staple on my Thanksgiving menu!

If you’re feeling inspired, check out the recipe below:

QUINOA CRANBERRY PILAF

(serves 4-6)

Ingredients:

4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups dried quinoa
1/2 cup Stoneridge Orchards dried cranberries
1/4 finely chopped parsley
1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
4 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp white balsamic vinegar
salt and pepper

Directions:

Start by bringing the broth to a boil, add dry quinoa and stir to remove clumps.
Bring back to boil, then reduce heat, cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir and add a little more broth if it is drying out too quickly. Continue cooking for 5 more minutes.
Remove from heat, and fluff with a fork separating the grains.
Add in remaining ingredients, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Tip: If your family prefers different nuts or herbs, they can be swapped out for almonds or pine nuts, basil or dill. If dried cranberries aren’t your fave, cherries, blueberries or even dried peaches will do.

Are you preparing a big Thanksgiving meal or will your family partake in a potluck?

Category: Food, Gumbo Mix, Misc. | 1 Comment

‘Sesame Street’ Celebrates 45th Anniversary of ‘The Monster at the End of This Book’

November 16, 2016

There are educational television programs and then there’s Sesame Street.

The beloved children’s program has been warming the hearts of preschoolers and adults alike for over four decades. Yesterday, Sesame Workshop, the non-profit educational organization behind Sesame Street, announced the celebration of the 45th anniversary of the treasured children’s title The Monster at the End of This Book.

First published in 1971, it has sold more than 12 million copies globally, making it the best-selling trade book in Sesame Street’s 47-year history. My three-year-old son adores the book and looks for it every time we visit our local library.

He and countless children around the country have been mesmerized by the anticipation of seeing the “monster” at the end of the book, only to find the friendly, fuzzy and furry Grover greeting them.

The Monster at the End of This Book is available here, $3

“The Monster at the End of This Book is a timeless story, which Sesame Street fans have enjoyed and shared with their children for generations,” Jennifer A. Perry, Vice President and Publisher, North America Media Products at Sesame Workshop, said in a release. “It remains relevant today in supporting families as they teach preschoolers about strength, making decisions, and overcoming their fears with help from their furry friend, Grover. We fully expect to be introducing this funny, relatable, beloved classic to new Sesame Street kids for many years to come.”

In honor of the iconic title’s special milestone, Sesame Street will conduct a series of social media videos inviting fans to create their own version of Monster artwork, and recall their favorite memory of the book using #Monster45.

The anniversary celebration will continue this week on social media with a special reenactment from @Grover and other surprises.

While my son is too young for social media, I do plan on showing him a few posts to get him grooving with Grover!

Who’s your child’s favorite Sesame Street character? Who was yours growing up?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Books | Leave a Comment

Fun Times at the Newly Renovated Bowlmor Lanes in Times Square

November 16, 2016

Nothing says family fun like an afternoon of bowling.

Two weeks ago, my hubby, kids and I had the pleasure of celebrating the re-opening of Bowlmor Lanes in the heart of Times Square.

The original upscale bowling venue has undergone a major multi-million dollar renovation—and the revamp left no detail unturned. The transformation is breathtakingly gorgeous. It’s edgy, nostalgic, trendy and whimsical all rolled into one. While that sounds like a hodge-podge design aesthetic, it works for the 90,000-square-foot flagship space. From Chinatown to Uptown, the not-your-average-bowling-alley is a nod to New York City’s eccentric yet sophisticated vibe.

bowling-bowlmor-lanes

bowling-balls

The Décor

Upon entering, the first thing that caught my eye was the standout, beaming sign that read: BOWL. Its retro feel transported me back in time when most marquees were emblazoned with tiny bulbs.

bowlmor-lanes-times-square

Throughout the venue there were seven outstandingly decorated suites, perfect for parties and celebrations. Plus, all of the walls were covered in something eye-catching. From painted murals to striking wallpaper, you won’t find boring blank walls here!

bowlmor-lanes-wall

The Food

When it comes to good quality food, patronizing a bowling alley may not come to mind. But, let me reassure you—the bites at Bowlmor Lanes will have you coming back for more. Their offerings range from chicken fingers to king-size pizza cakes. Yes, a PIZZA CAKE and pizza cupcakes! The kitchen cranks out inventive, yet top-notch fare that rivals popular restaurants.

bowlmor-lanes-food

pizza-cake-bowlmor-lanes

Oh and did I mention the sweet treats? My kids and I devoured the S’mores Pie from the menu. It was pure ooey-gooey goodness and I have zero regrets! Also, if you’re looking to indulge in a few adult beverages, this bowling alley has you covered. It boasts not one, not two, but three bars!

smores-pie-bowlmor-lanes

The Fun

Done with bowling in one of the 48 lanes, but don’t want the fun to end? That was the case with my family. After we were done knocking down neon pins, we headed to the arcade. Packed with plenty of noteworthy games such as NBA Hoops and Connect Four, but the one that stole the show for us was the elusive “Claw” machine.

arcade-bowlmor-lanes

My son AND daughter both won large stuffed animals after only a few tries. To say they were ecstatic would be an understatement. Honestly, I was pretty overjoyed too because I can’t recall ever scoring anything from those machines as a child.

bowlmor-lanes-arcade

Bowlmor Lanes’ new look is out-of-this world and it provides the perfect backdrop for an entertaining and luxurious experience for locals and tourists alike. We’ll be back soon because there’s a S’mores pie with my name on it!

Do you and your family enjoy bowling? Do you plan on visiting the newly renovated Bowlmor Lanes in Times Square?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | Leave a Comment

Cool Fashions to Keep Kids Warm this Season

November 15, 2016

I’m not big on buying fashion trends for myself, but when it comes to clothing for my kids I’m all in.

Shopping for them gives me the perfect opportunity to satisfy my sartorial appetite by indulging in stylish pieces that don’t need to stand the test of time. Why invest in classic pieces when they’re just going to outgrow them by year’s end anyway? Plus, it’s so fun dressing my kids up in swoon-worthy of-the-moment items.

That’s why The Children’s Place has been my go-to store since my daughter’s birth. They offer fashionable finds that are adorable and affordable. Plus, they make clothes that are not only eye-catching, but also boast commendable quality. We moms know that some brands can’t withstand the washer, but thankfully TCP pieces can.

My kids decked out in TCP duds (coats, tops, bottoms and shoes) from this season.

From frilly sequined shirts and glittery high-tops for girls to two-in-one tops and comfy jogger pants for boys, the store has everything to keep my kids in style this winter without blowing my budget.

If you’re in need of great holiday pieces that will brighten your child’s wardrobe, look no further than TCP—it’s the place to be!

Below, find a few of my favorite seasonal picks: