One World Observatory Review: Visiting the Freedom Tower

The Freedom Tower is a familiar sight to most New Jersey residents. We've watched it being built and slowly jetting into the New York skyline from afar. We've waited for the day that we could step through its doors and feel the awesome power of resilience and pride (mixed with sadness, too). The Jersey Momma's Boy grew up after 9/11, so he never saw the Twin Towers with his own eyes. But he watched the Freedom Tower rise, and we knew one day we would want to bring him there when he was old enough. We finally had the chance to take him to One World Observatory, and what a trip it was! If you're curious what it's like to visit, especially with children, read on.

Momma's EASY Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

I love hearty soups any time of year, especially if they're easy to make. This pasta fagioli recipe is SO simple and the ingredients are not over-the-top hard to find. This is similar to Olive Garden's famous pasta fagioli recipe, but dareIsay...better? It was also a family favorite, which surprised me because there are vegetables and beans in it, so you never know. But I can safely say that everyone loved it. Read on for the easy recipe.

Back to School Night: Tips for Teachers and Parents

If you've read the About Me section of this blog, then you know I used to be a teacher. Back to School Night (also known as Open House), is a teacher's chance to tell you all about the school year. It's also a parent or caregiver's chance to learn about their child's teacher and classroom. I thought I'd share some tips for both teachers and parents for this important evening, since I've learned some things about holding a successful Back to School Night over the years. If you're scrolling, you'll find the teacher section here at the top, and the parent section toward the bottom. Happy reading!

Transitioning Back to School with Creative Lunch Box Notes

Going back to school is not always easy for kids. I loved school as a child, but The Jersey Momma's Boy doesn't hold the same affection for education! I'm a former teacher, yet the teacher's kid doesn't like school. Figures! Anyway, my daily lunch box notes actually help make the transition a little bit easier. Read on to see how.

How to Raise Monarch Butterflies: A Basic Guide

If you ever thought about raising butterflies with your little ones at home, I have some basic tips for you!  As I'm sure you've figured out, I am not a butterfly expert.  If you want all of the best information from the experts, feel free to visit them at MonarchWatch.  I have raised and released over 300 monarch butterflies in my lifetime, so my tips come from what I've read and my own experience.

Investing in Your Future: How Higher Education Opens New Doors for Growing Families

As your family grows, so do your dreams for the future. You think about giving your kids the best opportunities, building financial stability, and creating a life you can all be proud of. Sometimes, reaching those goals means investing in yourself first. Going back to school might seem like a huge challenge when you're juggling parenthood, but it's also one of the most powerful ways to open new doors for your whole family. Thinking of education as an investment in your family's future is a different way to look at things, but it's a valuable one. After all, investing in students is about building a better tomorrow for everyone.

New Jersey Boardwalk Bucket List: 10 Jersey Shore Treats to Try This Summer

One of the best things about visiting the Jersey Shore is hitting up one of its many fabulous boardwalks. Rides, games, entertainment, and...food!!  There are so many snacks, treats and specialties to choose from. Everything just seems to taste better at the shore, doesn't it? So I'm making my own 'Boardwalk Bucket List.' This includes some of the best boardwalk (and general NJ shore) treats to try before summer ends. I realize the list could be infinite, so I've tried to narrow it down to ten+ of the most scrumptious goodies I could find from boardwalks along the shore. Are you ready?

(*Note that since this post has become so popular, I decided to add new treats to it every year. So be sure to Pin it for future use!)

10 Classic New Jersey Attractions You Should Revisit

What comes to mind when you think of classic New Jersey attractions? Chances are, the places in your memory are still in existence today. New Jersey is filled with classic attractions that families and visitors have enjoyed for decades. Why not make some plans to revisit them this year?

*This post has been updated for 2026!

Helping Your Kids Prepare For College Is Important

If the time has come for your kids to start preparing for college, I'm right there with you! Parents need to do their best to help, right? As a supportive parent, it’s up to you to provide them with the help and guidance they need to navigate this tough time in their lives. Whether you've been through this before, or whether you're new to the process and need to start researching, support is critical. But how can you do this? What should you be doing? How can you make sure that you don’t overstep, since this is their life, not yours? If you’d like to find out more, feel free to read on. 

Easy Ways to Visit The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from New Jersey

Ready to visit The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island? I have the perfect, easy trip planned for you. Liberty State Park (right here in New Jersey!) is the gateway to two of America’s most iconic landmarks: The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Liberty State Park in Jersey City serves as the perfect destination for families in the tri-state area and beyond looking for a fun-filled day trip and with a new, free pilot shuttle service running on weekends through the end of September, the Park and all of its amenities are more accessible than ever.  We took a fun and very stress-free trip from Liberty State Park to The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island thanks to Statue City Cruises. Read on for more details, and see how to plan an exciting trip of your own.

Camelback Lodge and Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark: Review and Tips for Visiting

It's time to start traveling again! Yes it is! And I have some great ideas for you if you are looking for a fun family weekend, staycation, or just a plain old good time. How have I lived in New Jersey my whole life and never visited Camelback Lodge & Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark? Just a stone's throw away in the Pocono Mountains, Camelback is both beautiful and easy to get to. Not only that, but they offer a ton of indoor and outdoor activities for families with kids of all ages. Aquatopia, their indoor water park, was so much fun! But there's more to do at Camelback Resort, so read on.

Planning Affordable Family Adventures That Everyone Will Enjoy

You don't need to spend a fortune to make amazing family memories. With a little imagination and smart planning, you can put together fantastic family adventures that fit your budget and give everyone stories to share for years. The trick is to focus on what really matters and the experiences you'll share, instead of just looking for the cheapest deal.

Choosing the Right Family Car: What You Need to Know

When your family starts to outgrow your current car, searching for a new one feels exciting, but it can also feel like a lot to handle. Suddenly, you’re not just looking for something that gets you from A to B. 

You need a safe, reliable and practical space for the people you love most. While a roomy inside is often the first thing parents check, picking the right family car means looking at more than just cup holders and trunk space. It's about finding a vehicle that really fits your family’s unique life, budget and what matters most to you.

Sweet Suite 2026 Recap: The Hottest Toys, Biggest Trends, and a Day of Play in New York City

If there's one event that makes me feel like a kid every single summer, it's The Toy Insider's Sweet Suite. I've been attending this fabulous soireé of play since 2017, and this year's event certainly didn't disappoint. The Toy Insider knows play and this event highlights the industry's newest, best and most exciting toys, collectibles, dolls, and more. Read on for a recap or just scroll through to rediscover your childhood love of play! And don't forget to check out my favorite picks from the show, too. 

Hallmark Stars Live Is Coming to New Jersey This Summer: Ticket Giveaway and More!

If your idea of a perfect night includes cozy Hallmark movies, heartwarming stories, and seeing your favorite stars in person, then mark your calendar! Hallmark Stars Live is hitting the road this summer, bringing some of the network's most beloved actors to theaters across the country, including two stops right here in New Jersey. And guess what? I have a ticket giveaway on my social media channels! Read on for more details!

How to Make Red, White and Blue Patriotic Cupcakes DIY

If you're in charge of bringing the dessert to a Memorial Day picnic or a 4th of July bash, then check out these patriotic cupcakes, which are actually super easy to make!

How The Right Lighting Fixtures Creates A More Functional Family Home

Your family home should be a safe haven for you and your kids. As a parent or guardian, you've  probably invested in many measures to make it safe, but one aspect that is easy to overlook is lighting. Your home’s lighting fixtures can play a major role in creating a home that feels safer, more comfortable, and more efficient. In this guide, we’ll look at the smart lighting choice to create a more welcoming home environment for everyone in your family. Let’s dive in!

Big Dreams from Netflix: Why Little House on the Prairie Still Resonates Today (and a Spoiler-Free Review)

Ask any GenXer about their favorite television shows of the 1970's and 80's, and they'll undoubtedly bring up Little House on the Prairie. In fact, many Millennials also fell in love with the show through reruns, DVD's and streaming services. Parents have passed the Little House love down to their children and even grandchildren, encouraging them to watch favorite episodes and read the original book series by Laura Ingalls Wilder (which the television show is based on). Now Netflix is debuting a reimagined Little House on the Prairie (airing July 9th), with a whole new cast, beloved stories and fresh excitement for people of all ages. Read on to learn more about the new series and see why Little House on the Prairie has remained popular almost 40 years after the original series ended.  

6 Reasons Why You Need to Visit RiseNY : All About New York's Amazing Museum and Ride

Have you heard of RiseNY?  RiseNY is one of the best attractions in New York City, in my opinion. It’s part film, part museum and part thrilling ride all rolled into one. I have never experienced anything quite like this in New York City (and I’ve seen and done a lot, believe me). Read on because I’m going to tell you all about it. It’s time to get out of the house and have some fun- and this is the perfect place to take the plunge. Literally! 

HERSHEY Movie Debuts November 2026: Watch the Trailer Here!

As a lifelong Hershey fan and frequent visitor to Hersheypark, Hershey, Pennsylvania and The Hotel Hershey, I was SO excited to hear that Angel Studios finally released a new trailer for their original film, HERSHEY. The film tells the story of how one couple's vision started a chocolate empire – and through it, changed the world. Read on for more details about HERSHEY, and scroll below to see the full trailer, too.