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LegoLand Discovery Center {Atlanta)

May 11, 2016

It probably comes as no shock when I say that my almost four year old son is obsessed with Legos. Literally obsessed. He loves to build, tear apart and rebuild. A few weeks ago we planned a trip to LegoLand Discovery Center in Atlanta with Henry, myself and husband. We left Evelyn with my mom so we could have some quality time with Henry. Being that Evelyn is only 16 months old, she wouldn’t have enjoyed herself since 99% of the actives are for older kids (however children 2 and under have free admission). We were able to really experience LegoLand and all it had to offer without having to worry about pushing a stroller or rushing to leave for Evelyn’s nap. We also were not the only parents with this mindset because all the children I saw there that day were at least 3 years old and up. buy antabuse online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/antabuse.html no prescription

LegoLand is located in the heart of Buckhead in Phipps Plaza on the third floor. It is promoted as an indoor discovery center and playground. From the moment you step off the elevator you are hit with all things Lego. We arrived right when it opened at 10am and stayed for about two hours. There is endless entertainment, building stations, climbing stations, slides, karaoke, a cafe, rides and a 4D movie theater which plays several different short films throughout the day. There is a helpful countdown clock at the theater entrance so you know when the next showing is. buy atarax online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/atarax.html no prescription

Henry has been to LegoLand once before with my mom but this was our first time. Trust me when I say he never forgot a single thing he did there, even after a year from his first visit. He was so excited that he woke up at 3am Sunday morning saying it was time to “shoot the bad guys!” LegoLand has an interactive ride where you can “shoot” bad guys on the screen in order to rescue the princess. They also take your picture while riding on the ride which you can purchase after for $12. Totally worth it since you get a 5×7 size and the option to go online and download and print more. The keepsake is so sweet and Henry chose to hang the picture in his room.

The race car station allowed children to build their own cars and then send them flying down a ramp to see if the cars would get enough momentum to land in the bucket. Henry loved the building part but the bigger kids definitely loved the racing! buy abilify online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/abilify-no-prescription.html no prescription

There is an earthquake table which Henry and my husband both enjoyed. They spent nearly 20 minutes at that station building the tallest buildings and then setting off the earthquake and seeing whose building could stay up the longest. There are stations everywhere and they are nicely spread out. The center never felt crowded, even when it got busier as the day went on.

My favorite part was the Lego recreation of Atlanta. From Turner Field to the Varsity, the entire city was built made out of Lego’s. It was one of the most impressive things I have ever seen. Most of the Dad’s in attendance seemed to love this room the most 🙂 Did you know there are 62 lego bricks for every person on Earth? The fact that there are more legos in existence than people blows my mind. Lego takeover anyone?

Henry’s favorite part of Lego Land was by far the new Pirate Island Adventure cove which had a great indoor climbing and play area, a lego build station and even a water build station where kids could build pirate ships in the water and send them floating down to the bottom. Your child will definitely get wet here, which is part of the experience, so be sure to keep that in mind when dressing them for the adventure!

After finishing up in the discovery center you are taken to the incredible Lego shop which is a mecca for kids. They have every building set you could imagine and a ton of fun accessories. I personally wanted the pink lego backpack but my husband vetoed that idea. LegoLand even offers hosted birthday parties that include pizza, drinks, a private party room and plenty of play time.

After Lego Land we had lunch right across at Johnny Rocket’s. We finished out our day with milkshakes, root beer floats, french fries and old fashioned burgers. It reminded me of times when my dad and I would go there because he always loved the Johnny Rockets milkshakes.

He had a smile on his face the entire time and I haven’t seen him that happy in a while. I knew he loved being able to spend time with his parents alone and have the focus solely be on him. After Evelyn joined our family a lot of my attention went to her, naturally since she is a lot younger and cannot do anything on her own yet, so my time with Henry was cut short in a lot of ways. Spending the afternoon together with just the three of us reminded me that I need to take more time and do one on one activities that just involve the three of us or even him and me. Experiencing LegoLand together was such incredible and I highly recommend it for kids 3 and up. If you have an older child, it’s ideal for a solo date with just them. You can find more information about tickets, hours and location on their website.

*Thank you to Lego Land Atlanta for providing tickets for our visit. As always, all opinions expressed are my own*

Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Atlanta

May 4, 2016

A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to take a break from my real life and escape to The Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Atlanta. For Christmas, my husband surprised me with a spa gift card to their spa and he decided it would be a great little getaway for me to use around Mother’s Day. The Mandarin Oriental definitely lives up to its 5 star reviews. From the moment I pulled up until I drove off, my stay was nothing short of wonderful. The staff and concierge were so helpful, friendly and attentive. All the guest rooms are non smoking which is such a bonus because I cannot stand the smell of cigarette smoke. Check in was a breeze, guest services was on top of everything and valet had my car up before I finished checking out. buy lipitor online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/lipitor-no-prescription.html no prescription

The hotel is in a prime location across from Lenox Square and close to several restaurants and nightlife. Even though it’s located in a busy area, it’s tucked away just enough to prevent street noise. My spacious room was on the sixth floor and I was lucky enough to stay in a king terrace room which had it’s own private balcony over looking Buckhead. It was beautiful and clean and had been well maintained (no chipped painted, spots on carpet, smells etc). The deep soaking tub was my favorite. I can’t tell you how long it had been since I’ve been able to enjoy a bath without toys floating everywhere. buy paxil online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/paxil-no-prescription.html no prescription

After checking in for my spa appointments, I was treated to some amazing hot peach tea and warm towels for my hands. I was then introduced to the spa grounds by a very helpful member of the spa staff. She showed me to the locker room where I had a robe and private locker for my belongings. For my three spa treatments I chose a massage, pedicure and facial. It was my first time having a hot aroma stone massage, which was 50 minutes long. In the past I was always hesitant because I thought the stones would be too hot but this wasn’t the case. The massage therapist was definitely skilled in her training and worked out a lot to tension I had in my shoulders and limbs. This relaxing massage uses heated stones to generate energy and create a sense of balance and calm, as well as, giving relief to deep-seated muscle tension.*{source} The dim lighting, calming sounds and smells create a tranquil atmosphere and allows you to achieve the ultimate level of relaxation. Next up was my essential facial which was nothing short of amazing. My skin felt so soft, wonderful and clean afterwards. buy priligy online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/priligy-no-prescription.html no prescription

I finished my appointments with the nourishing pedicure, which is completely waterless. Something I had never heard of but makes total sense. Without a tub filled with water there is less to clean and disinfect making the process more sanitary for the client (the technician wrapped my feet in hot towels instead). I didn’t think a waterless pedicure could produce smooth results since I’m on my feet a lot but it was better than any regular pedicure with water that I’ve ever had. It’ll be hard to go back to one that uses water after experiencing this. After the spa services I came back to my room feeling so relaxed and rejuvenated. Upon my return, I was greeted with some macaroons and a very sweet note from the hotel. It was such a nice surprise because I was starving and they were so good.

After almost three hours I spent in the spa, I was craving room service and lying in bed without “mommy” being yelled 100 times per minute. To be expected, everything on the menu looked outstanding. I chose the Signature Burger: 8 oz Angus Beef, St. Andre Cheese, Avocado, Applewood Smoked Bacon, Tomato, Frisée and House Dressing on a Honey Wheat Bun with their house made potato chips. It was cooked perfectly and tasted delicious. I ended the night with some cheesecake because why not?

The spa and wellness center is available for hotel guests between 5:30am-9:30pm. After waking up feeling refreshed and energized I headed to the steam room to do even more relaxing. I am kicking myself for not bringing my swimsuit because their 60 foot saline lap pool is nothing short of amazing. No hotel stay would be complete without breakfast in bed. In true Chanel fashion, I went all out. Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day and I could eat it for every meal. Everything on their menu looked mouth watering. I decided on the french toast, bacon, cheese grits, poached eggs, an english muffin, coffee and orange juice. Just like with dinner, everything was perfect and so tasty.

It was so nice to sleep without the sound of a baby monitor next to my ear. I woke up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. It is amazing what one night of uninterrupted sleep and no kids and responsibility can do for you. If you are a husband looking for a last minute Mother’s Day gift for your wife, surprise her with an overnight stay at a local hotel. If there’s a spa that’s a bonus, but I’m sure any mother would love a night alone and a chance to sleep in, relax and temporarily escape from her responsibilities. For my Atlanta readers, the Mandarin Oriental is hosting a beautiful brunch for Mother’s Day this Sunday from 11:30am – 3pm. The brunch will feature appetizers and desserts and guests will also choose an entree. There will also be a pop-up flower shop in their amazing gardens. Priced at $90 per adult and $35 per child aged 5-12 (plus tax and gratuity). They’ve also recently launched a family package which includes a one-night stay in a two-bedroom family room with tickets to Legoland and The Children’s Museum of Atlanta along with a few goodies. This is ideal for families who live in the South and are thinking about coming to Atlanta for some family fun.Thank you Mandarin Oriental for such a wonderful visit. I will definitely be returning and next time bringing my husband so we can enjoy a night out on the town.

*The Mandarin Oriental provided me with a valet, wifi and one night stay free of charge. As always, all opinions expressed are my own*

Local Eats: Bar Taco, Atlanta

April 10, 2016

Whenever we’re in Buckhead visiting my mom we always try and stop at Bar Taco for lunch or dinner. It’s so convenient to her house and the atmosphere is light, airy and laid back. We’ve eaten there numerous times and I’ve never had a bad experience or meal. The waitstaff are friendly and attentive, the drinks are strong and the tacos are on point. There is also free valet parking if you happen to go during a busy time. If I could dream up my idea outdoor patio, I would model it after the Bar Taco patio. String lights, a stone fireplace, low benches and tables, shade coverage from the large trees, horseshoe … all the things to make you feel like you’re right at home, which is one of the reasons we keep coming back.

The restaurant is very kid friendly and the outside patio is the ideal place to sit, regardless if there are kids in tow. They even have a fun kids food & drink menu and various fresh squeezed juices. We always start off with their guacamole, salsa verde, tostada shells and their house margaritas on the rocks. The guac is a good combination of lime and spice without being too hot, plus they add cilantro which makes anything better in my opinion.

The falafel taco is hands down my favorite while my husband prefers the pork pastor. Their menu has options for everyones taste buds and preference: spicy, mild, vegetarian, and lots of meat. The tacos are small (each on a 4 inch tortilla) which allows you to try multiple variations and flavors. After sharing the shells and guacamole I always get four tacos and a bowl and find that I am never left feeling hungry. The roasted cauliflower rice bowl with romesco sauce has easily become one of my favorites and there are eight others to choose from including pork belly, sesame ribeye and portobello mushroom.

I don’t usually save room for dessert but on rare occasions I get a hankering for gelato which is strange because I’m not a huge fan of it. On this particular day they had mint chocolate chip on the menu so it was a no brainer. The scoop was huge and comes in a full sized waffle cone on a stand. It was delicious and I think they may have converted me after trying it.

Bar Taco has 3 locations in Atlanta: Chastain Park, Inman Park and West Midtown. There are also restaurants on the East Coast and in Florida. Did I mention that you can order online too? This place seriously has it all. If you are looking for a fun night out with friends, family or a date night I strongly suggest checking out Bar Taco. Happy eating!

Weekend Wrap Up

February 2, 2016

As usual we are so bummed that our weekend and family time is over. We had a lot of fun together and took advantage of the great weather. We headed down to the the High Museum of Art for our first stop on Saturday. The kids have never been to the museum before and Henry definitely loved it (especially running up the ramps to the top floor). They have a kids room which was all decked out with Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus actives and books. We have been reading those books to Henry lately so he got a huge kick out of seeing the bus in real life. I can’t wait to take them back in April when the Eric Carle exhibit is going on!

After the museum we headed to Piedmont Park so the kids could run out some energy since they had to be so collected and quiet in the museum. The park was definitely a popular spot since the weather was so nice but after Henry decided to jump in a huge muddle of mud and get his shoes soaking wet we thought it would be best to grab some lunch (and booze). We have drove past Henry’s in midtown on numerous occasions and always wanted to go there for obvious reasons and Henry loved it. He kept telling the staff and patrons that his name was also Henry and then spelled it for everyone. The food was incredible and we will definitely be going back. buy singulair online https://bethanyhealthcare.org/wp-content/languages/new/singulair.html no prescription

On Sunday we ventured out to Mac Lab Bakery, which is known for their beautiful and tasty macarons. I had come across them on instagram and was pleasantly surprised they were close to us. We got there right when they opened which seems to be the norm when you have kids. The last thing you want to do is show up when a place is packed and you have a toddler and baby screaming and throwing food on the ground. Needless to say they were all amazing (and they are all gluten free and non GMO). The Nutella was my favorite of course and it was hard to pick one. If you are in the Atlanta area, I highly recommend checking them out, you will not be disappointed. buy symbicort online https://bethanyhealthcare.org/wp-content/languages/new/symbicort.html no prescription

Here’s to another week! The weather is supposed to be beautiful here and we’ve got some fun playdates planned to keep us busy. I hope everyone has a great one! buy synthroid online https://bethanyhealthcare.org/wp-content/languages/new/synthroid.html no prescription

scenes from our weekend

August 31, 2015

This girl is a bona fide crawler and is always on the move. She pulls up on everything and wants to walk so badly. I do not think I am ready for two walkers. Baby proofing the house again is in full force.

We took pictures with Anna Little and I snuck in a few of my handsome boy before we got started. I cannot wait to get them back. Her style is so unique and she’s always able to get the best candid shots.

{shirt is Hatch for Kids}

A last minute trip to Chuck E. Cheese’s so this wild boy could run around and play. They have really good pizza. It’s trouble.

Do not go to Jo-Ann’s on a Saturday if you are looking to quickly get some fabric. You will be waiting in line for hours painfully listening to women ask the employees how to knit a hat for their dogs.

Despite some rain on Sunday, the weather was beautiful and feels like Fall which is what I wait all summer for. An early dinner at Bar Taco was so good and I am still craving their margaritas.

I had to unstrap this baby beast within 10 minutes because she was killing my back. I definitely missed those newborn Solly days where she weighed under 10 lbs and could snuggle up all cute to my chest. Can we go back 7 months?

exploring

August 11, 2015

The past 2 weekends we’ve started leaving the house once the kids are awake to explore new parts of Atlanta. We live and work in the suburbs and don’t get much time to head to the “big city” so we’re trying to make an effort to explore more Atlanta neighborhoods and their surroundings. Our first trip was to Historic Roswell, where my husband and I met, rented our first house together and got married. If we could choose somewhere in the north Atlanta area to live, Roswell would be it. Aside from all the memories we have there, it is up and coming with tons of new construction yet still keeping the historic elements. Henry loved ~~walking~~ running up and down the quaint streets and trying to open all the doors of every restaurant and shop we passed.

This past Sunday we headed about 20 miles south to the Inman Park area with a stop first at Paris on Ponce. They have the most beautiful painted brick walls which are like a work of art in themselves. I knew I had to get some pictures of the kids in front of them. Henry’s favorite part was waving to all the bikers and joggers on the Belt Line and yelling “good job!” as they ran past. We visited Krog Street Market for a cookie break and to sit in the AC for a bit. Even at 10am, Atlanta is hot and humid as hell. There are some amazing murals down the street done by artist Greg Mike, who I had never heard of but am now obsessed with his work. Henry kept referring to squiggly one as bath bubbles. (what). The big cat face was my favorite and I am wondering how I can convince my husband to have that recreated on our bedroom wall …

Already thinking of our next adventure!

Weekend Wrap Up

March 17, 2015

Friday we met my husband for dinner at our favorite new Mexican restaurant. The food is so good and Henry just loves Mexican food. I love that they are loud, kid friendly and drown out a screaming baby or a tantrum. After dinner we headed to Target to wear Henry out and let him run around (plus, who doesn’t love a trip to Target after a few margaritas?)

Even though the weather was overcast and cloudy all day Saturday, temperature wise it was perfect for being outdoors. After some coffee and Cars 2 we headed over to the greenway to get some exercise in and let Henry run around. It is the perfect outdoor place for him to run free (and safe too! nothing but woods).

We hit up Waffle House after, our favorite family breakfast spot. The food is good, the service is fast and your toddler can eat cheese grits with his hands without anyone turning heads.

After naps we headed to lunch for some carnintas enchiladas and then to the park so Henry could run around and play more. We are always trying to wear him out. This kid is non stop from 6am until we have to make him go to bed. Which has been between 8-9pm lately. You would think he would sleep a solid twelve hours but there must be sugarplum fairies in his dreams taunting him with playgrounds, lollipops and apple juice which makes him rise at the crack of dawn.

The most exciting part of the weekend was our trip to the Atlanta Zoo on Sunday. Henry loved seeing all the animals but he mostly enjoyed running wild through the swarm of five thousand people. (Not stressful at all, right?) This kid never stops. We went along with some friends and their son and Henry liked having a playmate to hang out with. Evelyn slept 90% of the time except when I forced her to get out of her comfy carseat for a picture.

We ended the day with dinner at Six Feet Under which was so yummy. We had jalapeño hush puppies, gator bites, shrimp baskets and peach margaritas. The boys were being so cute together and kept dancing and hugging.

Here’s to another fun and safe week!

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