Hottest New Children’s Toys

1.     Fidget Spinners: As of April 2017, these toys have taken stores by storm. It’s basic in its design, but is a skill toy like yo-yos. It’s made of a central ball bearing with 2 or 3 prongs that let the toy spin easily on a table or in your hand. They claim to aid with releasing nervous energy to help those with ADHD or anxiety. They are relatively cheap and you can get these little gadgets at almost any store.
2.     Shopkins: These 1inch little toys are collectible plastic figures based off of grocery store items. These everyday items are transformed into miniature personalities with unique names and faces. There’s a sweet apple named Apple Blossom and a chocolate chip cookie named Kooky Cookie, and they’re as precious as their names.
3.     Hatchimals: These clever toys are robotic animals that hatch from eggs. The toys hit shelves late Oct 2016, and skyrocketed into living rooms. The creators originally thought the toys would only appeal to 6-8 year old girls, but there was a much wider demand, even for young boys. The toy makers have promised to create new species and features in a new line that should be appearing later this year.
4.     Pie Face: It’s as crazy as the name suggests. Yes, you are pied in the face, and it’s a laugh riot for the whole family. It’s a bit like Russian roulette with shaving cream. You put a heap of shaving cream on an arm, and take turns trying not to be pied. You place your face in the designated circle, spin the spinner, and click the turnstile the number you spun. If you don’t get pied, then the number you spun is your score. You never know when the arm will go flying!
5.     Selfie Mic Set: Take karaoke to the next level by making your own music videos with the selfie mic set. It’s an extension for your mobile phone that holds the phone in the perfect self position while you belt your heart out to your favorite tunes into a snazzy handheld microphone. It’s incredibly easy to use. You simply plug it in and load the app and you’re good to go. The app scrolls the words over the screen while recording your epic song so you can post anything and everything to your favorite social media site. The best part? It starts at only $10 and you can find them in most children’s stores.
6.     Teddy Ruxpin: Parents, get ready for a flashback to the past. The classic 1986 Teddy Ruxpin bear is making a big comeback this year with a new model hitting stores the fall of 2017. This toy is projected to be the one that has Christmas shoppers in a frenzy. Instead of the tape cassettes that used to be in the original, the new version will have 3 pre-loaded stories programmed in the bear. To add more fun to bedtime, you can download more stories with a mobile app to keep Teddy Ruxpin as part of your nightly routine for months to come.

Traveling can be one of the most rewarding experiences that you may find yourself talking about for years to come. Not only will you likely get to see some interesting sights, meet new people, and try new foods, but traveling can change your outlook on life. Here are some of the best benefits of traveling that you otherwise wouldn’t experience from the comfort of your home.

1.     R & R: Depending on how you like to travel, vacations can be an excellent time to unplug, and reconnect to those around you with some simple rest and relaxation. Breaking away from the tired, old routines can help you reset and recharge like nothing else!
2.     Get a new world view: Even if you stay in your country of origin, you’ll get to see a different way of life and see more of where you are from. If you travel abroad, you’ll get to experience the expansive differences between a new culture and the culture with which you’re familiar. It’s eye opening to learn about different traditions from other nations and religions. With your newfound perspective, you will have a greater appreciation for the struggles and passions of others. It may even inspire you to find new solutions to old problems back home.
3.     Try new foods: There is nothing better than having local produce that is native to the region. It’s always more delicious than the ones you can find in a grocery store—that is, if you can find it in the grocery store. Along with different cultures come different culinary traditions. Try it all! See what the local people like to dine on. It’ll give you a more complete picture of what life is like in this new area. You never know; you may find a new favorite recipe to share with friends back home.
4.     Bond with your loved ones with a new experience: When you vacation with others, you share once-in-a-lifetime experiences. You are able to break away from the daily routine and share more of yourself with the people that you love. Being able to kick back and shed the stress from your usual day will let you reconnect to the people that mean the most to you. You will share more laughs and make memories together that will last a lifetime. 
5.     Improve social and communication skills: This is a practical benefit from your traveling experience. Odds are, if you travel to a foreign country, you won’t speak the native tongue. It doesn’t mean that you are unable to communicate; it just means you have to get creative with how you communicate. You’ll stretch your brain to figure out how to find out the information you need. You’ll have to learn new tactics in expressing yourself. From learning new words, to motioning hand signals, you’ll work new areas of your brain.
6.     Get the creative juices flowing: Are you feeling uninspired or stuck in a rut? Traveling can give you a fresh outlook and kick start the creative juices. By stepping away from what you are working on to experience something new, you are able to have the “Aha!” moments that drive your creativity.
7.     Embrace uncertainty: Are you someone who struggles with control? Are you constantly stressed out because you can’t seem to control the things around you? If so, then maybe a trip needs to be in your future. Not only will it help you unwind, but it will also show you that you don’t need to be in control. Sometimes the best things happen when we let go and realize that we don’t need to control everything.
8.     Get to know yourself: The most important benefit to any trip is remembering who you are. After time, you can forget to follow the passions that you once had. Traveling can be a great time to reflect and see if you’re still being honest with yourself and your life goals. After going through all of these new experiences, you can more clearly see who you are and where you want to go. Make a list and start checking off all of the destinations with each trip! You’ll be amazed at what you find.

There are so many wonderful benefits to traveling. From getting to see different perspectives, to learning how to better communicate with others, to trying new foods, traveling can help to open yourself up to new experiences and lasting memories. Traveling can inspire, educate, and bring a new sense of purpose to your life. If you’re feeling bored with the same routines of daily life, planning a vacation to an unfamiliar place could be just the break you need to refresh, renew, and appreciate.

Calling all coffee lovers and chocoholics: be prepared to get your hands on a recipe that’s not only deliciously mouth-watering, but energizing, too. Dark chocolate coffee energy bites are the snack that not only satisfies that sweet, chocolate craving, but that gives you a mid-afternoon boost as well. Not only are they tasty and give you more energy, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make! Here’s everything you need to know to make your own dark chocolate coffee energy bites.

Ingredients: (servings: 12 bites)

• 15 Medjool dates (pitted and soaked in water for 10 minutes)
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup lightly salted almonds
• 2 tablespoons ground coffee (favorite coffee of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Combine the ingredients in a food processor, and pulse until there is a dough-like consistency.
2. By hand, make twelve 1-inch bites.
3. Place bites in the refrigerator to chill.
4. Indulge (the best part of the recipe)

Now you’re energy-equipped and ready to tackle that mid-afternoon slump! Anytime you’re lacking in energy during the day and need a delicious caffeine fix, just take a bite. Plus, give your body the nutrients that it craves with these energy-boosting snacks that taste great, too. The nutritious ingredients in these energy bites are scientifically proven to be healthy for you. The cocoa powder lowers high blood pressure and increases brain performance, while medjool dates are loaded up with fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Chia seeds contain powerful antioxidants, and are filled with calcium and Omega-3’s.  And coffee… well, we all know why coffee is so amazing.

So there you have it: the best energy bites out there.

Don’t forget to bring some of these dark chocolate coffee energy bites with you to work, and help your colleagues out by offering some for them to enjoy as well! Before you know it, they’ll be asking you for the recipe.

Each year, 300 million tons of plastic are produced in order to sustain our plastic-dependent world. From water bottles, to coffee cups, to grocery bags, disposable plastic has become a lifestyle staple—and a costly one at that. The overuse of plastic is a threat to our environment and the sustainability of life on earth—but don’t lose hope just yet; there are plenty of things you can do to help cut down on plastic.

The problem: Thin, plastic grocery bags are the most ubiquitous form of plastic pollution, taking up space in landfills and remaining there for years.

What you can do: One thing you can do to cut down on plastic is to bring your own reusable bags to the store when you go shopping. Most grocery stores offer “go green” bag options that allow you to purchase a recycled bag that can be brought back for future shopping trips. Reusable bags save time, money, and hassle, and help to rid our environment of plastic and related pollution.

The problem: Millions of cups of coffee are sold every day in chain coffee shops, and the plastic cups and straws are simply disposed of in a trash bin. But even if they are recycled, they never truly leave our environment.

What you can do: Ditch that tacky plastic cup and straw combo and start carrying your own thermos or reusable coffee cup. Reusable cups are not only better for the environment, they are more convenient because they can be washed and brought back time after time, or stored in your car for when you’re on the go.

The problem: Microbeads are exactly what they sound like—they’re those tiny colored beads floating in your bath products that are marketed for exfoliation purposes. The beads are meant to be washed down the drain with the rest of the water and filtered before reaching the ocean—but they’re not.

The truth is, those little plastic beads are far too small to be filtered out of our water. The microbeads are then flushed out into our oceans, where they remain for decades to come. Not only do the beads pollute our water, but they become ingested by fish and other small marine life, killing the animals that eat them and harming and disrupting the entire ecosystem.

What you can do: Eliminate more plastic waste and water pollution by cutting out those face scrubs or body washes that contain microbeads. Opt for microbead-free body washes and exfoliators instead, and help keep our waters clean, and our fish safe and healthy.

The problem: Plastic water bottles are the biggest offense of our environment, with Americans using approximately 50 billion of them a year. The consumption and manufacturing of plastic water bottles not only harm the environment, but it also requires wasting tons of energy.

What you can do: Most Americans site superior taste as their reason to drink bottled water as opposed to tap water. The truth is, the majority of plastic water bottles simply contain purified municipal water. We suggest buying a water filter and using a reusable water bottle. This option is not only cheaper, but it’s healthier as well. Plastic contains chemicals that can be linked to nausea, depression, dizziness, vomiting, and even death.

With just a few small changes, we can all make a difference to our world and the use of plastic that is slowly killing it. If you’re interested in saving the environment and you’d like more great ideas for cutting down on plastic, check out this helpful article.

Buying a car can be an exciting, albeit overwhelming, process. Are you getting the right bang for your buck? What features are important to you? Are you buying from a trusted seller? There are probably many factors that will go into your decision, and if you’re buying a pre-owned, or used, car, the questions only get more complicated. Has it been in any accidents? Has its safety been compromised in any way? Overlooking any one of these questions could spell out trouble in the future. Don’t make the mistake of rushing through the process because you need a car as soon as possible. Asking the right questions and looking for the right things can save you time, money, and heartache down the road.

The first thing you want to ask yourself when shopping around for a used car is if you are buying from a trusted seller. If you’re buying a used car, chances are, it’s not coming from the dealership at which it was originally sold. You want to be sure the dealer has an accurate and verified report of the car’s history. Unfortunately, there’s no way anyone can be 100% sure of the condition or history of any car. Of course, you can check for physical “symptoms,” i.e. signs of welding that hint at a covered-up accident, mismatched paint that may point towards a door replacement, etc. The bottom line is, the salesman can talk about the structural integrity of a car all day, but he really doesn’t personally know what the car has been through.

If buying from a personal seller, it can be even more challenging to determine if you’re getting the “full scoop” about the vehicle. This is where you’ll have to use your best judgment and go with your gut feeling about the car’s previous owners. Make sure the car has a title and isn’t stolen property, and request that the seller obtains a Carfax report to check on its accident history, if any.

When it comes to price, you’ll want to consider factors like the year the car was made in, the miles the car has, and the obvious wear and tear of the seats, steering wheel, dashboard, and features like door handles, knobs, and buttons. On the exterior, check for signs of rust, calcium build up, oil leaks, or other signs of neglect or aging. All of these factors should be considered and addressed before agreeing on the sale of the car. While it may be a good point of negotiation, you may also want to request that the seller has those fixed or looked at by a mechanic before agreeing to anything. In some cases, review of a seemingly small problem may give way to larger, more serious, and pricier underlying problems that could add to the total cost of the car when all is said and done. Avoid any big surprises by having it all looked at beforehand—better safe than sorry.

A clean Carfax, good inspection, and trusted seller are a great start to finding the right car, but there are other things that can affect your satisfaction with your new purchase. For example, you may want to consider that some car models have more expensive parts than others. If anything needs to be replaced in the next 3-6 months to a year, are you prepared to fork out those extra costs? It may be wiser to go with a safer alternative with parts that are more easily obtainable and even less expensive.

All in all, your personal judgment may be your greatest weapon against being swindled out of your time and money. Taking the extra precautions and educating yourself on what to expect when buying your first used car can mean the difference between a satisfied purchase and buyer’s remorse. Any more suggestions for what to look for when buying a used car? Let us know in the comments below!

Jersey is a place known for many things, and that includes being home to some of the East Coast’s best nightlife spots. Nighttime hotspots Atlantic City, Ocean City, and other tourist attractions offer no shortage of bars, clubs, and everything in between for a fun Friday or Saturday night out with friends. What are the best places that have both tourists and locals talking? Let’s find out.

The Headliner– Neptune City brings the heat with this high energy night club complete with an outdoor deck, live music, and a vodka room. Inexpensive drinks and a usually-packed venue make this an ideal summer party scene.

Allure Lounge– In the mood for something a bit more swanky? While the drinks may be more on the pricier side, the atmosphere and service at Allure are unbeatable. Guests rave about the awesome music and sound system, chic, upscale venue, and accommodating service.

Dolce­– This Italian eatery and dance club is perfect for a night of food, drinks, and friends. Enjoy the authentic-tasting Italian cuisine of pizza, pasta, and more; paired with specialty cocktails that are sure to make your mouth water. Dolce’s speedy service and friendly staff are what makes this spot a crowd favorite and set it apart from the rest.

QXT’s Night Club– Cutting-edge dance music steals the show at this industrial-styled club that provides the perfect backdrop for a long night out. Its lower level is split into four different areas which cater to different musical preferences, so there is something for everyone. Live music, a stage area for dancing, and killer cocktails are what take this space to the next level!

Bar Anticipation– This indoor-outdoor bar and grill hangout is unlike anything else in the area. Multiple DJs, sand volleyball, and VIP cabanas that can be rented out make this spot a great place to meet and mingle with friends. Be sure to get there early if you’d like to avoid longer lines!

Adelphia Restaurant & Lounge– For a more family-friendly option, try this American-style restaurant with a large menu, lounge, and light-up dance floor. There’s something for everyone at this affordable restaurant that boasts great service, an upscale atmosphere, and delicious food.

Rise­– Lodi, NJ makes it on the map with this nightclub complete with laser shows, dancing, and live performances. Friday nights are Latin nights, featuring music native to Latin America and celebrating Latin heritage. The club’s underground feel and bar seating make it ideal for group outings.

Stress Factory Comedy Club– For a comedic twist on a night out, check out this comedy show hotspot featuring the area’s best comedic talent and open mic stars. Enjoy live entertainment with delicious American food and a variety of cocktails to match.

Whether you’re looking for a dive bar, sports bar, lounge, restaurant, night club, or comedy house, there are plenty of options for weekend outings in New Jersey. What are your favorite New Jersey nightlife spots? Let us know in the comments below!

New Jersey is much more than its shores! Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend getaway, want to explore nature, or would like to learn more about the history of what makes this area so meaningful, there are no shortage of things to do in New Jersey. While the weather is warming up, let’s welcome in Spring with these fun, inspiring, and meaningful things to do!

Fun

Grounds for Sculpture– Located in Hamilton, NJ, Grounds for Sculpture is a 42-acre park and museum that offers a variety of exhibitions, educational programs, and community events meant to promote the appreciation of contemporary sculpture. Wander through acres and acres of larger-than-life sculptures that make art come alive around you. The grounds are filled with beautiful, scenic gardens, and there are a multitude of hidden paths and trails to explore.

Cape May County Park and Zoo– This 5-star rated zoo has free admission and tons of beautifully-kept exhibitions that are fun for the whole family! The zoo has a large variety of animals, friendly staff, and an array of fun rides and attractions for the kids. There are also plenty of places to grab a snack and some food to make it through the day!

Count Basie Theatre– If you’re looking for an exciting evening out, whether to enjoy performance art or to experience live music, you’ve got to check out this crowd-favorite venue. Count Basie Theatre’s acoustics offer a great sound, and there’s no such thing as a bad seat in the whole theatre. There’s even an indoor and outdoor bar area to enjoy cold drinks on a warm summer night.

Nature

The Frelinghuysen Arboretum– This scenic spring and summer hotspot isn’t your typical walk in the park! The arboretum offers an ultra-peaceful, leisurely alternative to walking around the block. The site features a beautiful mansion surrounded by immaculately maintained gardens and regular exhibits year round. Be sure to arrive early, however, because the lines can be notoriously long on a nice day!

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area- What would a NJ nature outing be without a trip to the Delaware Water Gap? The site is a total of over 70,000 acres that are the prime location for hiking and exploring nature. The area contains two New Jersey visitor centers, which feature great access points to the Appalachian Trail, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding area and great exhibits. The Minisink Archaeological Site is another great place for all sorts of activities such as camping, swimming, and canoeing.

History

Thomas Edison National Historical Park– Make history come alive with a tour of this rich piece of history and technology. Friendly and knowledgeable park rangers and volunteers will teach you all about Edison’s legacy, life story, and successes, and you’ll be able to see some awesome inventions!

Cape May- Old, Victorian Cape May is another touristy staple of New Jersey. You can’t get the true feel of NJ without seeing this piece of history that characterizes the area and draws attention and crowds from all over. There are many Cape May attractions, including clean beaches, the Cape May Point Lighthouse, and the Emlen Physick Estate, which is an 18-room mansion and museum that is open to the public for tours. The area is known for its beauty, charm, and history, and it’s definitely a sight to see.