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As the summer season winds down in Wildwood, there’s always that bittersweet moment when our favorite spots close for the year. One of those spots for us is Five Girls , a local favorite that has quickly become a go-to for comfort food done right. On our last visit before they closed, we decided to try the chicken cheesesteak , and it did not disappoint. What sets this cheesesteak apart is the way they prepare the chicken — it’s cubed , perfectly cooked, and packed with flavor. Each bite is a delightful combination of tender chicken, melted cheese, and soft, fresh bread. The cubed chicken gives it a unique texture that makes every bite satisfying and a little unexpected. It’s comfort food at its finest, the kind that makes you want to linger over your plate and savor every mouthful. What makes Five Girls special isn’t just the food — it’s the experience. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, the staff is friendly, and there’s a sense of care in every dish they serve. Even though they’re now closed for the season, it’s easy to see why this spot has become a local favorite. If you’ve never visited Five Girls in Wildwood, make a note to stop by next season. From their friendly service to standout dishes like the cubed chicken cheesesteak, it’s a place that makes you feel like part of the family while treating your taste buds at the same time. Until next season, we’ll be dreaming of that last, perfect bite.

Looking for a fun day out for the whole family? We just visited iPlay America , and it did not  disappoint! 🎢🎯 From arcade games to rides, laser tag, mini bowling, and even VR experiences, there’s truly something for everyone — no matter your age or interests. What I loved most is how easy it is to spend the entire day there without ever running out of things to do. The kids had an absolute blast trying out every ride and game, and I couldn’t resist joining in on a few of the arcade challenges myself. There’s something magical about seeing the excitement on their faces as they rack up tickets, conquer new rides, and try games they’ve never played before. iPlay America isn’t just about fun — it’s about making memories. It’s perfect for birthday parties, family outings, or even a spontaneous weekend adventure. The staff is friendly, the environment is clean and safe, and the energy is infectious. You really feel like you’ve stepped into a world where everyone can let loose and just enjoy themselves. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a game lover, or just looking for some good old-fashioned family fun, iPlay America  has it all. It’s the kind of place that makes you wish you had more free time so you could come back again and again. If you haven’t been yet, you definitely need to check it out — trust me, it’s worth every minute of fun!

Just finished We Used to Live Here  by Marcus Kliewer, and I’m still thinking about it. This book completely pulled me in — the kind of story where you tell yourself “just one more chapter” and suddenly an hour has passed. The setup is so simple, yet so creepy: a couple finally moves into their dream home, ready to start fresh. Everything feels perfect… until a family shows up at the door saying they used to live there . What starts as an awkward, innocent interaction quickly turns strange, tense, and downright unsettling. And from that moment on, the book does an incredible job of making you question every character and every motive. Kliewer’s writing is atmospheric in the best way. He slowly builds this sense of unease that just keeps growing — like something is off, but you can’t quite put your finger on it. You feel the isolation of the house, the shifting dynamics, the creeping paranoia. It’s psychological without being confusing, scary without relying on gore, and unpredictable in a way that keeps you hooked. What I really loved is how the story explores the idea of home — who it belongs to, the memories it holds, and how quickly something familiar can turn unfamiliar. The twists hit at just the right moments, and the ending left me with that perfect “I need to talk to someone about this” feeling. If you’re in the mood for a creepy, addictive thriller that you can read in a day or two, We Used to Live Here  is a fantastic pick. Definitely one of those books that sticks with you long after you finish.

Christmas is just around the corner, but I still haven’t heard any buzz about the big “must-have” toy of the year! Usually by this time, there’s that one item everyone is trying to track down — the one flying off shelves and causing parents to do late-night store runs. But this year? Total silence. What I do  know is what’s a hit in my house. My eight-year-old is completely obsessed with the My Life As Harry Potter Hogwarts Express Doll Playset . It has quickly become her favorite toy, and honestly, I can see why. The attention to detail is amazing — from the tiny accessories to the magical design of the Hogwarts Express itself. It’s the kind of playset that pulls kids right into the story and keeps their imagination going for hours. I love hearing her narrate her own Hogwarts adventures while she plays. If you have a little Harry Potter fan in your life, this set is absolutely worth checking out. And the best part? It’s available right at Walmart, which makes it super easy to grab during your holiday shopping. Maybe we don’t have a “must-have toy of the year” in the news yet… but in our house, this one definitely wins the title.

If you’re anything like me, you’ve been counting down to Wicked: For Good  ever since the first behind-the-scenes photos dropped. So of course, I had to see it opening weekend — popcorn in hand, expectations sky-high — and now that I’ve had time to process, here’s my full, honest, no-spoilers blogger review. First Impressions: A Gorgeous Return to Oz Right from the start, the film pulls you back into the incredible world of Oz — and visually, it’s stunning. The colors, the sets, the costumes… it’s the kind of movie where every frame feels carefully crafted. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande are easily the heart of the entire film. Their chemistry carries so many scenes, and some of the emotional moments hit hard . I wasn’t expecting to tear up, but here we are. If you’re someone who loves character-driven stories, this movie gives you a lot to hold onto. The Music: Beautiful… but Not Always “Big” Let’s talk about the musical numbers, because I know that’s what most fans were waiting for. The vocals? Flawless. The staging and energy? Not always what I wanted. Some songs felt more like cinematic moments instead of the big, theatrical, goosebump performances we see on stage. A few numbers I expected to be huge showstoppers came off a little toned-down. Still beautiful — just not quite as electric  as the musical theater version. Pacing & Plot: A Little Bumpy at Times This is where the film gets a bit complicated. There are parts that feel rushed, almost like the story is sprinting to the next big moment. Then there are other scenes that linger longer than expected. It’s not enough to ruin the experience, but you definitely feel the uneven rhythm if you’re paying attention. What I Loved Most The emotional connection between the two leads The stunning visuals (seriously, Oz is gorgeous) The final act — absolutely beautiful and worth the wait The nostalgic nods to earlier versions without being too repetitive What I Didn’t Love Some musical numbers lacked that Broadway “wow” factor Certain story arcs felt cut short A bit of uneven pacing that pulled me out of the moment once or twice Final Thoughts: Worth Seeing? Absolutely — especially if you're already a Wicked  fan. Is it perfect? No. Is it emotional, visually stunning, beautifully acted, and full of heart? Yes. Think of it like a love letter to the characters rather than a big, explosive musical spectacle. If you go in with that mindset, you’ll probably walk out feeling satisfied, maybe even a little emotional (don’t worry — I was too).

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my Ninja Creami Ice Cream and Soft Ice Cream Maker. 🍨 If you’ve been on the fence about getting one, let me be the friend who gives you that little nudge — because this machine has completely changed my dessert game. What I love most is how simple it is. You mix your base, pop it in the freezer, and the next day the Creami turns it into the smoothest, creamiest ice cream ever. We’re talking real  ice cream texture — not icy, not gritty, just dreamy goodness. And the customization? Unreal. You can make classic ice cream, soft-serve, sorbets, gelato, protein ice cream, or even “healthy-ish” versions with fruit and yogurt. Plus, the mix-in feature is next level. Want chocolate chips? Cookies? Peanut butter swirls? The Ninja Creami handles it like a pro. It’s like having your own mini ice cream shop right in the kitchen. Whether you’re making late-night treats, fun desserts with the kids, or your own specialty flavors, this is one kitchen gadget that actually lives up to the hype. If you want to check it out for yourself, you can find it here: https://www.ninjakitchen.com #NinjaCreami #IceCreamMaker #KitchenFavorites #DessertLovers #HomemadeGoodness #SweetTreats #KitchenMustHaves #FoodieLife #IceCreamAtHome

I love supporting small businesses—there’s just something special about knowing that the products you’re buying are made with heart, creativity, and real passion. Today, I want to highlight one of my newest obsessions: Summer Sweethearts . Summer Sweethearts is a small business run by two incredibly talented sisters who have turned their shared vision into a brand full of charm and personality. Their products are not only stylish—they genuinely feel thoughtfully crafted . Every piece has that “made with love” quality you just can’t find in big-box stores. What really sets them apart is their eye for design. Whether it’s the colors they choose, the materials they use, or the little details they add to each item, everything feels intentional. It’s the kind of brand that instantly brightens your day the moment you open your package. Shopping with Summer Sweethearts feels like discovering a hidden gem you just have  to tell everyone about. If you love supporting small creators and treating yourself to beautifully curated pieces that feel both trendy and meaningful, you’ll want to check them out. This sister duo is truly doing something special—and I’m so excited to cheer them on. You can find them online at: Summer Sweethearts

Generous sandwiches & solid Philly-style flavor From classic cheesesteaks to Italian roast pork subs, big cutlet sandwiches, and spicy “long hots,” Johnny Longhots delivers. Their cheesesteaks especially get high praise — loaded with meat, cheese, and served on rolls that are soft yet chewy. One customer note that stuck with me: the long-hot sandwiches are described as “perfectly spicy without being overwhelming,” which is a nice balance of heat and flavor. Casual, welcoming atmosphere The vibe inside is relaxed: there’s indoor seating with air-conditioning, TVs usually playing the “Rocky” movies or showing Philly-team games, plus a side outdoor seating area if you’d rather eat in the fresh air. It feels like exactly the kind of no-fuss, come-as-you-are place you want when hunger strikes after a beach or boardwalk day. Portion size + reasonable value Portions are generous — many people end up taking home half (or more) of their meal. Given the quality and size, the price point feels fair for a shore town. Friendly, community-oriented service Reviews frequently mention how warm and welcoming the staff is, adding to the overall experience. There’s a local-shore house comfort to it — you don’t feel like a tourist, but more like someone who landed on a trusted neighborhood spot. What I Ate — Standout Items Their cheesesteak: tender, cheesy, with just the right amount of roll-to-filling ratio. A cutlet sandwich (Society-Hill or similar), which had a great crunch and flavor, good enough that I wished for a second. A stuffed long hot — spicy but balanced, with prosciutto and peppers that added real character. Bonus: The rolls are great — not too crusty, but chewy enough to hold up under hearty fillings, which to me always makes or breaks a sandwich shop. What to Know (or Could Be Better) Summer evenings get busy — there can  be a wait if you walk in without a plan. But I’ve heard calling ahead for takeout helps a lot. It’s casual. Don’t expect fine dining; this is a “grab-a-great-sandwich” kind of place. If you want fancy ambience, this isn’t it — but that’s part of the charm. No delivery (at least officially) but dine-in or takeout works fine. If you’re craving a real, down-to-earth sandwich — I mean a serious  cheesesteak or hoagie — Johnny Longhots hits the spot. It brings a slice of Philly-style comfort to the Wildwood shore, with big flavors, generous portions, and that easygoing beach-town vibe. Whether you’ve spent the day on the sand, come back from a boardwalk stroll, or just need a solid dinner — I’m already planning my next stop back. So, if you find yourself in Wildwood and hungry, do yourself a favor: swing by Johnny Longhots and dive into a sandwich that remembers what a good sub is all about.

What the Franklin Institute does really well Hands-on, interactive and wide-ranging exhibits.  The Institute offers experiences that appeal to all ages — from its human-body exhibits (like the immersive The Giant Heart walk-through) to space, physics, brains, machines, sports, and more. The Franklin Institute+2myphillyconnection.com+2   Many visitors say it remains “mind-blowing,” even as adults: “every corner had something to spark curiosity.” Yelp Great for families (especially kids) and curious adults.  It’s designed so kids can press buttons, fiddle with controls, and experiment — but adults with a background in science or engineering often learn something too. Yelp+2Visit Philadelphia+2 Strong standout attractions:  The Planetarium (the Fels Planetarium) is widely praised for its immersive astronomy shows. The Franklin Institute+2myphillyconnection.com+2   The Giant Heart remains an iconic and beloved exhibit: over 70 years old and still drawing fascination as visitors walk through a heart 100× the size of a real one. Wikipedia+2Visit Philadelphia+2 Broad educational mission & accessibility efforts.  The Institute aims to spark passion for science, technology, and discovery — and offers accessibility accommodations, discounts for eligible visitors (e.g. through PA ACCESS or student-ID programs), and wheelchair-friendly amenities. The Franklin Institute+2The Franklin Institute+2 Also worth noting: the Institute was just named among the “Top 10 Best Science Museums and Planetariums in the Nation” by a major readers’-choice poll in 2025. The Franklin Institute What you might find disappointing (and what to watch out for) Crowds — especially around popular exhibits and on weekends or field-trip heavy days.  Some visitors say that at peak times, the museum gets packed, which can make it hard to fully enjoy or explore exhibits at your own pace. Tripadvisor+2Wonderful Museums+2 Mixed maintenance; some interactive installations may be broken or outdated:  There are reports from past visits of inoperable interactive stations, broken machines, or under-renovation sections — which can dampen the “hands-on” appeal. Tripadvisor+2Tripadvisor+2 High price, especially when combined with parking or special exhibits.  General admission isn’t cheap (as of now, adult tickets are around $29) and parking onsite costs extra. The Franklin Institute+2Philadelphia Visitor Center+2   For some, the value felt lacking compared to the cost, especially if many exhibits aren’t working fully. Tripadvisor+1 Not always ideal for adult-only groups — more geared towards families & children.  Some adult visitors felt that unless you're really into science, certain exhibits lacked depth or felt more child-oriented. Tripadvisor+1 Who I think the Franklin Institute is great for — and who might be less impressed Great for: Families with kids (especially elementary to middle school age), since interactive, tactile exhibits make science fun and memorable. Adults interested in science, engineering, or who enjoy hands-on learning — because there are still neat exhibits and planetarium shows. Visitors looking for a full-day activity in Philadelphia that combines learning and entertainment. Less ideal for: Adults looking for deep, adult-level science or technical depth beyond introductory/intermediate — some exhibits may feel a bit “light.” People sensitive to crowds, or who prefer calm, contemplative museum experiences — on busy days it can feel chaotic. Those on a strict budget who want “a lot for what they pay” — especially if arriving with a group or with parking. My overall take The Franklin Institute remains one of the best “science-meets-playground” museums around. It captures the spirit of inquiry and discovery in a way that’s inviting to children — and still often inspiring for adults. The Giant Heart, Planetarium, space — they’re the kind of experiences that spark a lifelong interest in science. That said, it’s clear the museum struggles sometimes with upkeep and balancing quality versus cost. If you go, I recommend buying tickets online ahead of time , aiming for a weekday afternoon or early morning  (to avoid crowds), and setting aside 3–4 hours (or more if you're going to stay through a planetarium show or special exhibit) .

⭐ Book Review: The Chronicles of Alice  by Christina Henry A dark, gripping reimagining that pulls you straight down the rabbit hole—no apologies given. If you think you know the story of Alice in Wonderland , Christina Henry is here to prove you wrong. The Chronicles of Alice —which combines Alice  and Red Queen —isn’t a whimsical retelling. It’s a razor-sharp, blood-stained, psychologically rich dive into trauma, resilience, and the monstrous side of fairy tales. And honestly? It’s brilliant. A Wonderland Reforged in Nightmares Henry takes the familiar world of Lewis Carroll and twists it into something raw, unsettling, and intoxicating. Instead of tea parties and mischievous Cheshire grins, we’re met with a gritty, broken city ruled by violence, corruption, and men who think they’re gods. Wonderland becomes a cautionary tale for what happens to lost girls in dangerous worlds—and how they fight their way out. Alice: Fragile, Fierce, and Unforgettable This version of Alice is not the wide-eyed girl tumbling after a rabbit. She’s a survivor of horrific abuse, memory shattered, trying to claw her way back to herself. Henry portrays trauma in a way that’s honest but never gratuitous. Alice’s growth—from terrified girl to powerful, purposeful force—is one of the most satisfying parts of the book. Her relationship with Hatcher, her brutal yet oddly tender companion, is another highlight. It’s not a romance—it’s two broken people learning to trust, fight, and live again. Atmospheric, Violent, and Beautifully Written Henry’s writing is vivid and cinematic. She balances horror with dark fantasy, and even in its most violent moments, the story feels purposeful. The pacing is tight, the world-building layered, and the danger always feels real. This is a story that doesn’t hold your hand—it drags you headfirst through the shadows. Who This Book Is For Readers who love dark retellings  of classic stories Fans of gritty fantasy  with emotional depth Anyone who appreciates strong, complex female leads Readers who want a series that is both haunting and empowering Not for the faint of heart—there are heavy themes including violence, abuse, control, and psychological trauma. But if you can handle the darkness, this book shines. Final Thoughts The Chronicles of Alice  is daring, disturbing, and utterly compelling. Christina Henry turns a childhood classic into a powerful exploration of survival and self-liberation. It’s a retelling that sticks with you long after the last page—and makes you rethink everything you thought you knew about Wonderland. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5 — A dark fantasy masterpiece.

As a mom constantly on the lookout for toys that don’t  involve endless screen time or loud, flashing chaos, I finally caved and tried something I’ve been hearing about for months: Tonies . And honestly? I get the hype. The Toniebox  has quickly become one of those rare toys that’s actually cute, practical, sturdy, and  magical enough to hold a kid’s attention longer than five minutes. Here’s my honest, real-life review after watching my kids play with it nonstop. 🧸 What Exactly Is a Toniebox? Think of the Toniebox as a soft, kid-proof, WiFi-connected speaker that plays stories, songs, and educational audio.But instead of buttons and screens, it uses… little collectible figurines . Your child pops a “Tonie”—like Cinderella, Paw Patrol, The Grinch, Sesame Street, bedtime melodies, or even a blank “Creative-Tonie”—onto the top of the box, and it instantly starts playing audio. It’s simple, tactile, and so satisfying that even toddlers figure it out in seconds. ⭐ What I Love About Tonies 1. Shockingly Kid-Proof My Toniebox has already survived being dropped, kicked, hugged too aggressively, stepped on (don’t ask), and once—inexplicably—used as a pillow. Still works perfectly. 2. NO Screens — Praise Be If you’re trying to cut down on tablets or cartoons but still want something entertaining, Tonies hits the sweet spot. The stories hold attention, especially if you pick their favorite characters. 3. Independent Play Win The biggest selling point for me is how easy it is for kids to use on their own. They can switch stories, adjust volume by tapping little ears on the box, and play what they want—without help. Translation: uninterrupted coffee  for me. 4. A Tonie for Every Personality There’s something for: Disney lovers Preschoolers Toddlers Kids who love music Kids learning to read Kids who want to record their own stories. The creative Tonies are especially adorable because you  can record messages, songs, or bedtime stories for your child to play anytime. 5. Surprisingly Great for Bedtime The calming Tonies (lullabies, sleepytime stories, white noise) have become part of our nightly routine. My house has never been so peaceful at 8 p.m. 🤔 What I Don’t Love (Because No Product Is Perfect) 1. Tonies Add Up $$ Quickly Each figurine is its own story or music collection… which is cute but definitely a “collectibles” model. They’re durable and high-quality, but your wallet will feel it if your kid decides they need every  Disney princess. 2. No On-Device Skip/Back Button You can tap to change chapters, but there’s no screen to jump to a specific track.It keeps the system simple, but sometimes simplicity is a tad annoying. 3. Requires WiFi the First Time You Set Up Each Tonie After that, everything plays offline—but that initial setup can be a tiny hassle if your WiFi acts up. 🎉 Final Thoughts: Is the Toniebox Worth It? Honestly? Yes. The Toniebox has become one of the most-used toys in our house. It encourages imagination, helps with quiet time, makes bedtime easier, and gives kids a sense of independence that they love . It’s one of those rare screen-free toys that feels modern, magical, and genuinely useful. If you have a toddler or young child and want a mix of fun + learning without a glowing screen in their face, Tonies is absolutely worth the investment. My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) A parent’s sanity-saver and kids’ favorite all in one.

🐾 Movie Review: Zootopia 2  – A Fun, Fast, and Surprisingly Thoughtful Return to the City That Never Sleeps As someone who adored the original Zootopia  (to the point where I may or may not still quote Flash the Sloth when someone walks too slow in front of me), I walked into Zootopia 2  with high expectations. Sequels can be tricky—especially when the first movie becomes a modern classic—but I’m happy to say this follow-up brings back the charm, heart, and clever humor that made the original so unforgettable. 🌆 The World-Building Still Steals the Show One thing Disney consistently nails is world design, and Zootopia 2  continues that trend. The city is bigger, brighter, and even more playful this time. We get new districts, new species, and new visual jokes tucked into every corner. It feels like the filmmakers knew fans wanted to explore more, and they delivered without making the city feel overcrowded or chaotic. 👮‍♀️ Judy and Nick: Still the Duo We Love Our favorite rabbit-fox partnership returns in full force, and their chemistry is as effortless as ever. Judy’s nonstop optimism paired with Nick’s sly humor makes even the quieter scenes entertaining. What I appreciated most is that the movie doesn’t just rehash their dynamic—it deepens it. We see them challenged in new ways that feel natural instead of forced. 🐍 A New Mystery, A New Villain, A New Message Without giving away spoilers, Zootopia 2  leans into a mystery plot again, but with a different tone. The new antagonist is interesting and visually memorable, and the film uses this storyline to explore themes of trust, fear, and how quickly society can shift when misinformation spreads. It’s family-friendly, but still grounded enough that adults will pick up on the nuance. 🎤 Comedy & Heart in Perfect Balance I genuinely laughed out loud multiple times—something I can’t say for many animated sequels. There’s a mix of clever references, slapstick moments, and character-driven humor. But what surprised me most was the emotional weight. The film doesn’t just check boxes; it actually has something to say, and it says it well without being preachy. 🎞️ If I Had to Critique… As much as I enjoyed it, the movie does occasionally play it safe. Some scenes feel like callbacks rather than fresh ideas, and a couple of new characters could’ve been fleshed out more. It’s not quite as groundbreaking as the first film—but that bar was extremely high. ⭐ Final Verdict: A Worthy, Warm, and Wonderfully Fun Sequel Zootopia 2  is colorful, funny, and heartfelt—everything a family film should be. It expands the universe, gives us new things to enjoy, and reminds us why we fell in love with Zootopia in the first place. If you loved the original, you’ll walk out smiling. If you're watching for the first time, you’ll still be fully entertained. Rating: 8.5/10 — A beautifully crafted sequel with charm to spare.