News from NEPA's KidDilly Network www.kiddilly.com

With Christmas just days away, New Year’s Eve planning is on the minds of many.

Because of economic concerns, however, Champaign and dancing ’til dawn may not be on the radar this year. With Christmas just days away, New Year’s Eve planning is on the minds of many. Because of economic concerns, however, Champaign and dancing ’til dawn may not be on the radar for many of us this year.

Plus, if you’re reading this on KidDilly, there’s a good chance you’re wanting to include your family in your New Year’s celebrations.

Thanks to Scranton’s First Night 2010 , there is big fun to the rescue!

People from around our region will gather to welcome a new year and a new decade.

This year’s theme is Under the Big Top! As expected, there promises to be something for everyone. The schedule boasts 30 acts, activities and events, all leading up to the evening’s grand finale – a spectacular fireworks display at midnight.

The Zany Umbrella Circus will headline the evening, featuring folk artistry, puppetry, street theater, circus acts, music and much more. Kelly B. Gormly of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review once called their show “a quirky acrobatic circus.” She went on to say, “The entertaining charm of the visual effects captivates children, but adults are not immune to it either.”

Keeping with the fun of the circus theme, there will also be musical acts, face painting, magic by Christopher and crafts for kids, just to scratch the surface.

The good news is that going Under the Big Top won’t mean going over the family budget. Admission to all the fun can be purchased in the form of a $10 button.

There’s a new store in town.

It’s a “no-work-and-all-play” Farmer’s Market – just one of several carefully designed educational areas at Timmy’s Town Center, a brand new children’s museum opening this weekend in Scranton.

Visit KidDilly for the scoop on all the grand opening festivities.

The KidDilly Team  has solidified your discounted admission and/or overnight stay so you and your family can enjoy the Magic of Christmas at Hershy Park’s Candylane.

With a million twinkling lights, rides for all ages, festive decorations, and Hershey’s Product Characters decked out in their holiday best, there is something for all to enjoy!

Visit Santa and his famous reindeer, sing-along at the Christmas show, and browse the quaint village shops for unique gift ideas.

Christmas Candylane features many attractions for guests of all ages including over 30 rides including the family-favorite, Twilight Express, and “A Music Box Christmas Show.”

Join KidDilly and families from around Northeast PA on December 12, 2009 and enjoy our $8.95 group rate for guests ages 3+ on park admission (children under 3 are free).

For an additional charge, enjoy Breakfast with Santa with us (details to follow — the hot cocoa at this event alone is worth it).

We also have your discount for the amazing Sweet Lights holiday light spectacular in the evening at $18/carload.

KidDilly will accept invitations through November 2. You can either pick up your tickets at one of two centralized designated meeting spots in November (for Sesame Place, we used Borders Books in Dickson City).

OR, for orders under 8 – have them mailed, at your own risk – to your home (Although it’s never happened before KidDilly can’t be held responsible for tickets lost in the mail).

To secure your spot, KidDilly Network  Members should:

1. Reply to this discussion on the Discussion Board and let us know you’re coming (including head count and number of kids under 12 — each will recieve a KidDilly gift).

2. Mail a check for $8.95 x the number of people over 3 who will attend PLUS $18 a carload (optional) if you will require admission into the Sweet Lights Spectacular. Checks may be made payable to Allison Wasko,  and sent to 106 Stone Ave, Clarks Summit, PA 18444.  ALSO, be sure to indicate if you are interested in Breakfast wtih Santa admission (seats are limited) and a number to contact you with more information.

3. Include a self-addressed, stamped (SASE) if you have an order under 8 and would like it mailed to you.

4. If you plan to pick up your tickets in November at the designated meeting spot, please include a quick note with your phone number and email address.

Park is open from 12 PM – 10 PM. Participating families will have tickets in hand weeks in advance of the event and therefore, the freedom to visit during the hours that work best for them.

Details for the KidDilly Breakfast with Santa to soon follow.

*************************************************************************************************
10 rooms have been blocked off at reduced KidDilly rates at the Hotel Hershey ($279 + tax as opposed to traditional rate of $329 + tax) and 20 rooms have been reserved for KidDilly at the Hershey Lodge ($189 + tax as opposed to the traditional rate of $229 + tax) December 12-13, 2009.Rooms accomidate two adults and two children (there are no cots or roll out beds available).

Families wishing to stay the night will be given special rates on Hershey Attractions through the conscierge (separate from the above offer, although those rates aren’t available today) and do not need to reserve reservations at the above group rate – just reserve your room through the hotel of your choosing.

BEGINING TUESDAY 10/20, you may call Central Reservations at 1-800-533-3131 and mention the “KidDilly” block to get the special rates.

There will be spa services available at the Chocolate Spa on Sunday, December 13 (a nice holiday gift to yourself). Book early (when you reserve your room) for best appointment times – they fill up fast.

For more information:
Hershey Lodge : http://www.hersheylodge.com/
Hotel Hershey: http://www.thehotelhershey.com/
Chocolate Spa: http://www.chocolatespa.com/

Hershey Lights starts at 5 PM and is open until 11 PM on 12/12.

Hope to see you in Hershey!

Buried deep within an emerald green forest, in a secluded area of the charming Pennsylvania town of Hawley, my family and I found the most unexpected treasure!

No, it wasn’t a heap of gold and gems, but something far better – Woodloch Resort.

Woodloch Resort is a family destination in the pristine Pocono Mountains committed to a tradition of excellence and hospitality. Nestled on sparkling Lake Teedyuskung, surrounded by majestic Hemlocks, the minute we arrived, we knew we found something special.

But don’t expect to see more than a photo or two of us sitting in lounge chairs admiring the breathtaking views; we were much too busy having the time of our lives and experiencing a wonderful vacation together, laughing, playing, and making invaluable memories.

“I like to call it the ‘Magic of Woodloch,” explained Laurie McEvory, Woodloch staff member. “It’s the whole Woodloch package. Woodloch Resort is specifically designed so parents have as much fun as their kids.”

Perhaps the ideal resort. Woodloch was named “Among the World’s Best All-Inclusive Resorts” by Family Circle Magazine. It truly is a triple threat – unmatched hospitality; remarkable amenities and accommodations; and incredible food. No other family resort can come close to comparing.

All for Fun, Fun for All

Each day brings a slew of new, exciting activities for people of every age and background. In fact, there are so many things to do; guests need a daily pamphlet to keep track of it all. The staff takes pride in presenting exceptional activities for their guests to enjoy. From the Island Day Carnival to the Island Olympics, game shows, scavenger hunts, petting zoos, pony rides, hay rides and  special summertime cookouts, weekends at Woodloch are simply packed with the delightful and exciting things to do.

When we weren’t participating in the specially scheduled events, we were taking advantage of all the resort has to offer.

We were blown away by the incredible indoor/outdoor kids’ splash pools, and beautiful swim facilities. In addition to swimming, my children really enjoyed the three-level padded play gym, known at the resort as “Woodloch Forrest.”

We played several rounds of mini-golf, shopped in all three gift shops, checked out the go carts, bumper boats and paddle boats, and engaged in some creative expression in the children’s arts and crafts room. And that doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface on the many possibilities for Woodloch fun.

As an extra service, spa enthusiasts can escape, relax and renew at the Lodge at Woodloch, an award winning, world-class destination spa. A complete menu of services and prices is available at check-in.

Golf fanatics will love Woodloch Springs, a gorgeous 18-hole golf course, driving rage and pro shop, just a short drive from the resort. Tee times may be booked by guests at an additional charge. Rental clubs are available, and so are private lessons from Golf Pro, John Pillar, recently named by Golf Pro Magazine as one of the “Top 50 Golf Instructors for Kids.”

And parents find themselves simply delighted by the fact that responsible babysitters are available so they can attend a show after dinner as a couple and enjoy cocktails and a dance party in the Night Club and North Lodge.

And just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, an breathtaking fireworks display ended our first day at the resort. 

 Did I Mention the Food?

With a bakery on site and a variety of entrees to choose from, dinning at Woodloch is simply divine. From breakfast to dinner, meals are served family-style in a classic American manner.  Wednesdays and Saturdays bring Woodloch’s famous “Theme Dinners”, which, in addition to providing great photo opportunities, proves to be an absolute blast for every member of the family. The menu features something for every palate, and there’s a great kids’ selection with very kid-friendly options.

Definitely leave room for dessert; although, I’m sure most will agree, this is not easy with the copious servings presented to guests.

Accommodations

Woodloch Pines resort offers something for every budget. Guests can book accommodations ranging from rustic and charming rooms, to full-out luxury guest homes.  Some packages offer a meal plan, featuring Woodloch’s famous Theme Dinners and marvelous cuisine.

Love at First Site

Woodloch Resort is an incredible destination for families. The laughs and memories we shared will last a lifetime. My only complaint is that we couldn’t stay longer. We have to work, after all.

Luckily, however, I am one to learn from life’s disappointments. I will be sure to book my next stay at Woodloch Resort for an extended period of time. Although, I suspect that parting with Woodloch might be all the more difficult then.

Woodloch Pines is a Double Dilly!!

Links

http://woodlochpines.com/home/

http://woodlochpines.com/home/exceptionaloffer.aspx?id=48

http://woodlochpines.com/golf/

http://woodlochpines.com/resort/default2.aspx?id=2

Make a wish and blow out the candles . . .
Did you just wish you could plan the next, best birthday party on your block?

Well, are you in luck!

 
On Saturday, April 18, KidDilly will host the NEPA Kid’s Birthday Party Expo at the Riverfront Sports Complex, Scranton.

This free event will take place from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM and is open to the public.
Exhibitors from all over the region will gather to showcase their birthday party-related businesses and services.

 
In addition to free face painting by Lollipop and The Art School of NEPA, a large igloo fort made entirely out of balloons will be sponsored by ArtsYOUniverse.

Entertainment, including magic by world-record holding illusionist Mark Mysterrio, is also planned.

Families of all ages to participate in the Passport Game to win incredible prizes, including the grand prize, an authentic Kate Spade of NY  handbag, valued at $425.

According to Donna Boock of Lake Ariel, event co-chairperson, “This event is designed to bring NEPA’s moms together with the businesses who can make their child’s next birthday party an extra special event.”

 
Her counterpart, Allison Wasko, Moscow, agrees. “Currently, there is no ‘Birthday Party’ listing in the yellow pages. Parents have to do a lot of research to plan the best event for their families and budgets. We here at CityMommy are hoping to change all of that by providing one-stop shopping. We hope we’ll succeed in providing a definite valuable resource for busy families.”

For more information about this event, or to participate as an exhibitor, please email kidDilly@ymail.com, or call 570-561-6113.

ABOUT CITYMOMMY: CityMommy is a membership-only website for moms, currently operating in 25 cities nationwide with over 18,000 members.

The KidDilly team recently hosted an exclusive open house party at the brand new MyGym of Scranton this week.

MyGym is located on the second floor of the Ice Box complex and is a fitness-oriented facility for kids up to age 13.

MyGym’s mission? To make fitness fun!

It’s hard to say which equipment our kids liked the best: the large trampoline, the indoor swings, the slides, the action-packed zip-cord, or the colorful ball pit.

There was so much to do and my kids were so thrilled to be there we signed up for their award-winning classes on the spot. I’m really looking forward to our return, and seeing those ear-to-ear smiles stretch wide across the gleeful faces of my little ones.

After all, you know what they say: an active kid is a happy kid!

It’s a Dilly!

Allie

Everywhere we looked, children and their families were enjoying themeselves. In addition to shopping, there was face painting, entertainment like the lively Renaissance jousting reenactment, and wonderful horse and carriage rides.

Old Fashioned Horse and Carriage Rides

Kiddilly was sure to make a visit to The Bottega where owner Dori Waters put out a fine spread of Valentine’s Sweets and coffee. Also inside, an artist sketched caricatures for onlookers peeking through the store’s plate glass window, while local authors, Pat Thomas and Lindsay Barrett George (who is also a talented illustrator), signed copies of their picture books for gleeful children.

After enjoying a nice time at The Bottegga, we made our way to the wonderful Kids Quality Consignment  to visit proprietor, Becky Bruner. Becky assisted shoppers in a shoulder-to-shoulder crowd enjoying KQC’s famous half-price winter clearance sale and one of the largest selection of Doug and Melissa wooden toys in the region.

Looking for great deals on items for children? Right this way . . .

If you weren’t able to make it to Clarks Summit yesterday, there is still time. The Festival will continue through President’s Day. 

Red balloons, $2; baby pink table cloths $4; a room full of children dancing and smiling; priceless!

Sweethearts under six recently gathered with their parents at the Gymboree Play and Music in Clarks Summit  for a Valentine’s Day Sweetheart Party.

Gymboree hosted the darling event for Citymommy kids to celebrate February’s sweetest holiday.

The guests enjoyed music, dancing, crafts, games, and what definitely seemed to be one of the evening’s biggest attractions, billions of bubbles!

The other big hit were the sweet treats provided by Lynn Sandy’s Cakes in Scranton. Adorably decorated, definitely delectable vanilla and chocolate cupcakes were on the menu.  The kids all agreed, they were two “yums” up!

Gymboree of Clarks Summit is an impeccably clean, super safe, and fabulously fun indoor play and learning center. 

Owner, Maurita Kelly Pascale, and her talented staff work tirelessly to ensure every child has a delightful learning and play experience.

If you missed out on the fun, no worries. Gymboree of Clarks Summit has a three more Sweetheart Parties left on its February calendar. Dates and information are below:

 Our pa

Saturday, February 7, 2009 at 2:00-4:00 pm (drop off for 3-5 year olds)*

Sunday, February 8, 2009 at 11:30am-1:00pm
Tuesday, February 10, at 4:00-5:30pm

$15 per child member, $20 non-member, adult must accompany each child
* $20 member, $25 non-member

Parties fill up fast, so be sure to call  (570) 586-5880 to reserve your little love bug a spot.

Allie

(Please email allison@citymommy.com or donna@citymommy.comfor more information about CityMommy’s free membership and upcoming play opportunities!)

The Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple will present “Fractured Fairytales” as part of the Citizens’ Voice Children’s Series on Saturday, February 7 at 10 am.

What exactly are fractured fairytales, you ask?

Well, they’re just like regular fairytales, but with a twist!

What if the witch in your favorite bedtime story ended up to be really nice after all?

Or, what if a beautiful princess kissed a handsome prince and he turned into a slimy, green frog?

We’re sure whatever storylines “Fractured Fairytales” decides to peruse, the result with be hysterical. The KidDilly team is guessing it is going to be an all around great time for the entire family.

In addition to the show, there will be a special Wiggles and Giggles parent/child craft workshop. Attendees of the workshop will craft a special project and later enjoy VIP seating at the show.

Tickets are available by calling Ticketmaster Charge-By-Phone:
1-800-745-3000 

And while you’re at home pondering the possible twists and turns that will be performed on Saturday, why not write down your best guess and enter the “Write Your Own Fractured Fairytale” contest?

Send your story to Info@ScrantonCulturalCenter by Thursday at noon. Winners will be announced by 5 PM Thursday and will recieve two tickets to the “Fractured Fairytales” performance on Saturday.

See you at the show!

Allie

Tiny tracks between the barberry bushes; a leafy nest up high in the branches of an old oak; and a patch of   rubbed-off bark on a birch? Who was in these snowy woods?

This is the question posed by local author and illustrator, Lindsay Barrett George in her award-winning classic, “In the Snow: Who’s Been Here?”

George takes the reader on a snowy safari, exploring the woodland floor, its loftiest tree limbs, and everywhere in between.

Children are inspired to embrace their curiosity and are transported into the story by George’s engaging prose and spectacular illustrations.

From the marvelously mottled feathers on her great horned owl, to the velvety chocolate fur under the chin of her mink, the textures revealed in her illustrations are simply reach-out-and-touch realistic. George excels at bringing the tiniest details to the forefront in each breathtaking scene.

If you haven’t seen this book yet, run (don’t walk) to your local library and pick up a copy. Or better yet, join KidDilly at The Bottega in Clarks Summit from 12 pm to 2 pm on Saturday, February 14 to meet Lindsay Barrett George. While you’re there, you can pick up your very own signed copy of this book, or one of her other stunning works including “Inside Mouse, Outside Mouse.”

They’re dillies!

Allie