Category Archives: Reviews

family campsites

Camping with Tentrr

Are you camping-curious, but not sure you want to deal with all the tent and sleeping bag related hassle? Have a hesitant spouse? Or perhaps you love camping, as we do, but are ready to try something new and different with your friends and family this fall. We recently headed out with Tentrr, a new company that gives you the camping experience you are after, from the most basic and remote locations to the “glamping” end of things as you desire. The best part? No set up or breaking down, you just go. When you arrive, everything is ready for you, just like a hotel (but way cooler, since you are outdoors and get to spend some time in nature).

easy camping

There is no end to the benefits of spending time in nature, from *physical health benefits like improving your immune system as well as mental and emotional health and well being (boosting you mood and giving you a creativity boost for examples), your whole self will benefit from your time camping. It doesn’t matter if you choose to really “rough it” or not, just being outside with your family will give you a wonderful bonding experience and memories that you can keep forever.

(*These and other health benefits of spending time outdoors can be found at  https://www.health.harvard.edu)

camping with kids

In a similar manner to Airnbn, Tentrr works with private landowners to cater to the camping community. These landowners install a “fully-equipped campsite on their property. Each campsite comes with a canvas wall tent on an elevated platform, bed, wood stove, Adirondack chairs, fire pit, grill, picnic table, sun shower, and camp toilet. Tentrr is perfect for families who love the outdoors but don’t love all the work associated with camping like packing a car full of stuff or pitching a tent.” (Via Tentrr)

family campsites

There are no crowded campgrounds, no tents or campers parked just feet away from your site, so you and your family can truly enjoy the solitude and quiet of nature.  We camped in Tivoli Trails in Tivoli, NY. It was our first experience with Tentrr, and I have to say it was so much easier and thus more relaxing for me (the main packer and set up person) and gave me more time to enjoy rather then rush about that first and last day. It’s really an ideal situation for those looking for a quick weekend trip as well, since it removes the time it takes for setup and breakdown, which can be substantial.

best camping

Also similar to Airbnb, there is an App you can install that lets you keep in touch with your campkeeper, for any questions or last minute issues that might arise. Forget something, get lost, confused about anything? That’s cool, you can message anytime. The messages also come to your email inbox and you are able to reply and talk that way, which for me was helpful since I’m less on my phone then I am on my computer. I know, I’m old.

great family camping

You can opt in for “extras” as well, such as towels, sleeping bags, pillows, etc. You will have all sorts of options when you make your reservation. There is also the ever-useful “camp kitchen” that is already there, and has everything you need to cook and clean up. This was my personal favorite, since bringing your own takes up a lot of space. If yours is not pre-packed, it also takes a lot of time to pack up (and if you are like me, you always forget something).

At this time, Tentrr has nearly 700 fully-equipped campsites in the USA and they are always adding more. Visit https://www.tentrr.com to choose your next getaway.

camping with kids

Get Camping

We love camping, and this is a great time of year to head out to your favorite campsite (or find a new one to explore).  What to pack, besides your tent and sleeping bags? We have a few suggestions.

best flashlights

One of the most important things to bring with you is lighting. You don’t want to wonder what you are about to run into on a middle of the night bathroom run. Recently, VSSL Outdoor Utility Tools and Mountain Khakis came together to bring out a very cool camping torch that is also a survival tool kit. A powerful light when you need it, you can also unscrew the cap to find mini disks that have different tools one might find useful inside. Lightweight at only one pound and impact resistant, it comes with 12 tins inside, including the flashlight disk itself, instructions, a compass, water purification tablets, first aid supplies, and more. The flashlight has four modes of LED light on it as well- medium, high, red, and SOS.  Available for $130 at https://www.mountainkhakis.com

I don’t know about you, but I really don’t like to mess about with my hair when I’m camping or otherwise outdoors. Basically, I just want it kept out of the way. I really like Seirus, they offer a variety of options to keep you protected from the sun and as dry from sweat as can be in a no fuss manner. They have these multi-functional what they call “neck tubes” on the site, and that’s a pretty accurate description since that’s exactly what they look like. They can be worn around your neck to protect from the sun, around your head as a stay put headband that keeps the hair out of your face and sweat out of your eyes, a balaclava, and quite a few other ways to wear it- super versatile. They are quick drying, very breathable, and have a UPF of 25 built in. The site posts videos on the many ways to wear them- check it out. $19.99 at https://www.seirus.com

Looking for something a little more straightforward? They also offer a UPF50 Hinged Headliner as extra protection from the sun as well as a liner and extra warmth under helmets and on bitterly cold days. There are multiple headliners and balaclavas to choose from, prices vary from $16-$35 at https://www.seirus.com

camping

Mountain Khakis are one of our favorites to wear camping, or really just great for being outside in general. These clothes are durable, breathable, soft, and great for layering in weather that can’t make up it’s mind. Nothing trendy, these will keep their appeal year after year, and they will be wearable for years as well. If you are new to the brand, you might want to start at the beginning. The Men’s Original Mountain Pants are, as you may have guessed, the ones that started it all. Organic, reinforced 2 play cotton and canvas, multiple reinforced pockets, reinforced heel cuffs, and more- you can probably tell these pants are built to last. They come in relaxed and slim fit, with 6 colors available at $84. 95 each at https://www.mountainkhakis.com

mountain khakis

If you want to top them off, we really love the new Pearl Street Collection flannel shirts. Soft, wicking fabric that stretches to give you that perfect feel, it still has a classic fit and look. The material keeps you warm and dry without overheating you. Since it has stretch to it, you can go rock climbing, chop wood for your campfire, go ziplining- whatever- and the shirt moves with you.  These are available for both men and women, with three color choices for men and two for women. They are $89.95 each at https://www.mountainkhakis.com

 

 

Tech Your Kids Will Really Fall For

Now that school is (finally!) back in session, you might be looking for fun ways to keep the kids stimulated and learning but still having fun while at home. We like board games and hiking as much as anybody, but sometimes a little hands-on building and creating goes a long way towards getting your child(ren) interested in something new, or perhaps just learning a little more about their favorite activities and what makes them “go”.

smart toys

If your kids like computers, video games, robots, or construction, Botzees might be the tech for you. This smart toy brings together virtual and hands on play in a way that is both fun and educational. Kids will enjoy playing, and won’t feel like they are having more “ugh, learning” heaped on them.  Botzees, the newest toy from Pai Technology, is a new robotics kit that is meant for kids ages 4 and up. This is a great way to sit with your kids and learn together- I have to admit this is an area my son is far and away better then I typically. It’s fun to learn together, and he loves when he can show me things. With this kit, you and your kid(s) can build, program, and code. There are six pre-designed robots, or you can go all out and create your own.

Once you build your Botzee, it can “be taught to move, drum, dance, make sounds and light up using the free Botzees app. Additionally, the 30 interactive Augmented Reality puzzles will teach even more coding concepts with visual cues.” (as per Pai Technology) It is available for $100 at https://www.pai.technology/botzees and Amazon.

Labo

If you have a child that is into video gaming, there is a new construction toy available that enhances gameplay. Nintendo recently released Nintendo Labo, which is one part game and one part construction toy. According to  Nintendo, they “designed Labo as a way to teach principles of engineering, physics, and basic programming”. You and your child build the kit out of sheets of pre-cut cardboard (thick stuff, not the weak stuff that instantly falls apart on you) and other parts. These you then use with your Nintendo Switch and it’s joy cons, and the creation is what Nintendo is calling a “Toy Con”. You use your “toy con” to interact with software and games.  With the basic Starter Kit, you can build VR Goggles and a Labo Blaster to take on aliens (not my favorite aspect, honestly).  The Blaster Labo Toy-Con can be played with either one or two players. Everything is in VR.  Starter set is $39.99 at https://labo.nintendo.com/kits/

kirby's extra epic yarn

If you are looking for a fun and non-violent game to play with the kids, check out Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn. Rated “E” for everyone, it’s the latest in the Kirby series.  In this game, Kirby was banished by a baddie into a world where he is made of yarn. While that may seem like a problem, the plus side is that Kirby can transform himself into all sorts of awesome like tanks, UFOs, a dolphin, and more. He gets “power ups” that give him advantages like getting a sword or becoming a tornado. Of course, he still has his classic copying abilities. Collect treasure as you move along the game, and show them off with the “Street Pass” feature, or switch out of story mode into “Devilish Mode” to try to earn even more. There are also two minigames that feature Meta Knight and King Dedede.  Available for $39.99 at https://www.nintendo.com

 

Winter is Coming

Yes, “Game of Thrones” is over and it’s still blisteringly hot out there in a lot of places, but the National Hockey League preseason gets underway this weekend, which means that winter can’t be far behind. This week, we feature several hockey- and winter-themed toys and games as well as a few other fun activities to keep you busy when those temperatures start to drop.

Ski Lodge (Playmobil 9280)

playmobil ski lodgeAfter check-in, begin your stay at the lodge by admiring the view from the terrace and enjoying a few alcohol-free drinks (at least until the kids go to bed). Then have dinner in the spacious dining room. In the morning, before you hit the slopes, have breakfast on the patio, then rent your skis at the equipment station. Just like a real ski lodge, there’s a ton of stuff to do—even if you’re not a skier—and this kit comes with everything you need to do it: five figures, skis, firewood, snowman, mittens, and a lot more.  Ages 4+. Under $50. https://www.playmobil.us

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There’s an Animal for That

Our world is filled with a nearly endless number of creatures in a dazzling variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. It’s no wonder that humans are mesmerized by animals. This week we bring you a number of games that feature animals, some you’ll familiar with, others you’ll learn about for the first time.

Aqua Diver (Play Monster)

aqua diverSummer maybe technically almost over, but it’s still plenty hot in many places, and that means more time by (and in) the pool. For kids and competitive adults who love to hunt chase after submerged objects, this fun squid-shaped toy adds a delightful element of competition. Toss Aqua Diver into the pool and the timer starts the second it hits the water. Then, dive in and try to catch it. Hit the button to stop the timer and it’s the next diver’s turn to try to beat your time. Batteries included. Ages 5+. $14.95. https://www.playmonster.com


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Still More Summer Reading

With half of the country experiencing a heat wave, more and more kids are spending time indoors. And one of the best things to do indoors is read.

Most Marshmallows (Rowboat Watkins)

most marshmallowsLet’s be honest. Most marshmallows get eaten, that’s pretty much the extent of their short, sweet (to the eater, anyway) life. Or is it? Maybe they go to school to learn to be squishy. Maybe they have goals and hopes and dreams just like we do. Maybe all they want is to be extraordinary. After reading this book, you may never look at a marshmallow the same way again… Ages 3+.


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More Summer Reading

Here are more great books for kids of all ages to enjoy for the rest of summer—and beyond.

Peel + Discover Books (Workman Publishing)

pee;+discover dinosThese clever books combine sticker play and trivia for kids who love both (or either). Each book has six sheets of stickers, 20 interactive activity pages, and 60 fascinating facts about kid-friendly topics (titles include Dinosaurs, Washington, DC, Vehicles, Outer Space, Horses, and others). For ages 6+. Under $9.

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Reading up on Summer

We all know about the dreaded “summer brain drain,” when students forget a lot of what they learned during the previous school year and have to spend the first few months of the new year catching up. You can help your kids turn that brain drain into a brain gain by encouraging reading over the summer. Here are some recent books that will not only capture children’s attention, but also encourage them to read even more.

Weird but True USA (National Geographic Kids)

weird but trueThis fascinating book contains 300 unusual facts about the states that make up the USA. For example, California scientists modeled a solar cell after a fly’s eye, Jell-O is the official state snack of Utah, and Nutty Narrows Bridge in Longview, Washington was built to squirrels can safely cross a busy road. Ages 8-12. Under $7.


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Something(s) for the Little Ones

Little kids learn just about everything there is to know about their world through play. So it’s no wonder that there’s a dazzling array of games, toys, and other activities for even the smallest children (even though they’re quite often more interested in the box something came in than whatever was inside.) Here are a few great options for infants and toddlers.

My First Yoga Mat (KD Kids)

first yoga matYoga is great for exercise, concentration, coordination, balance, body awareness, relaxation, and just plain fun. My First Yoga Mat helps in all those areas. BitsyBot, the computerized teacher who’s built into the mat itself, gives directions and challenges (such as “can you touch my hand and press my head?”) in several game modes, including identifying body parts and step-by-step instruction in seven basic yoga poses. BitsyBot is also bilingual—just flip a switch and you can do it all in Spanish. For ages 24 months through six years. About $50. https://kdplanet.com
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Coconut Bay, St. Lucia

No matter what kind of vacation you’re looking for—whether it’s a family trip, a romantic couples’ retreat, a weekend getaway with friends, or anything else—you can find what you are looking for on the diverse island of St. Lucia.

Coconut Bay is located near the airport (in fact, just five minutes away), so you won’t have a long trek to your room once you arrive. That’s never a welcome surprise, is it? Once there, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff with cool towels and cold drinks of your choice: water, rum punch, or champagne.

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