Stephanie Sheaffer writes about books, babies, travel, food, and philanthropy.
There are many reasons to stay ON-property at Walt Disney World. Most notably...free parking, easy access to the monorail system, amazing swimming pools and splash pads, top-notch customer service, and clean, gorgeous rooms. There are times, however, when staying off-property can be advantageous. Examples: You have a large immediate family (4+ kids) and don't want to pay for two rooms. You have a large extended family and you all would like to pitch in and stay somewhere … [Read more...]
She went up and down that slide at least thirty times, screaming each time with as much volume as the time prior. Holding her hands in the air rollarcoaster-style, she laughed without inhibition. The Posy Pocket Dress suits her style to a T. Colored in a happy shade of red with pleating at the chest and waist, the dress features an easy on/off design (no buttons or zippers!). Best of all for a just-turned-4-year-old, the dress has two heart shaped pockets. Exactly right for collecting … [Read more...]
Planning a Disney World vacation? Congratulations! You and your family are sure to have a magical and memorable time. After you research hotels, book your plane tickets or change the oil in your car, and clear your calendar, you'll need to get out your suitcases and decide what to wear for optimal cuteness, comfort, and style. If you're traveling in the spring or summer, you'll want to pack lightweight and breathable clothing - and don't forget your deodorant! Be sure to keep in mind … [Read more...]
The creators of Shutterfly and Tiny Prints are giving 1 million people a free photo card - now thru June 17. Choose from a number of card designs on Treat.com. Then, make it personal by adding photos, nicknames, inside jokes, and fun shared memories. Definitely a good idea for grandparents: Would be fun to go along with a gift from a group of friends or colleagues: Also, Father's Day is coming up: Want to try it out? There are 1 million Treat greeting cards up for grabs. Be one … [Read more...]
Our youngest turned one in April and she's got the travel bug just like the rest of the family. We have to barely mention going somewhere and she scoops up her shoes to bring them to us. She's adventurous. She's fearless (a tad too fearless). And she's prone to get a little too much sun if we're not careful. Here are some of our top product picks for keeping summer babies cool and comfortable. Reusable Swim Diaper by My Pool Pal For little ones that aren't yet potty-trained, a swim diaper … [Read more...]
St. Louis is a city replete with history. Founded in 1764, it became a major port on the Mississippi River after the Louisiana Purchase. At one point, it was the 2nd largest city in the U.S. and was considered a "gateway" to the west. Now, the city is home to 318,000+ people, with a metro population of over 3 mil. Our family stayed at Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch in downtown St. Louis. The hotel has a prime location - within walking distance of the Gateway Arch, Citygarden, and the St. … [Read more...]
Summer has definitely arrived in Tucson. Cherries, peaches, and sweet corn are plentiful in the grocery store! The swimming pools and splash pads are all open! And the temperatures have already soared past 100. Even so, I'll take 100 in the desert over 80 with humidity any day. On days where the weather is mild, I sometimes will throw together an outfit like this. Denim Button-Up by H&M - Several months ago I told my stylish sister-in-law that I was looking for a denim button-up … [Read more...]
People often ask me if its worthwhile to plan a Disney vacation in the very early years. Although it's certainly true that older children may enjoy the experience more thoroughly and remember it more clearly, it can still be a fun experience with an infant or tiny tot. If you decide to vacation at Walt Disney World or Disneyland with baby in tow, rest assured that Disney does a phenomenal job of making even the smallest guests feel welcome. Want to read my top 10 tips to help ensure that … [Read more...]
When I think “Washington State,” I tend to think “rain.” Relentless rain. Grey skies. Days without the yellow glitter of the sunshine. In reality, however, Washington is much brighter than novels often portray it. Especially eastern and central Washington. Take Spokane, for instance. The city (which is the 2nd largest in Washington) averages 260 days [...]
