Daycation to Camp Snoopy at Carowinds Theme Park

Camp Snoopy  Carowinds Theme Park

If you live in North or South Carolina, the perfect day trip is only a few miles away. Carowinds theme park located in Charlotte, North Carolina should be a must do on your list. You may have little's and be thinking, "What are we going to be able to do there with such small kids and all the more older children adult rides?" Think no more. You will be pleasantly surprised that the new Carowinds Camp Snoopy has you covered. This new area that just opened this spring of 2018 has so much to offer you could spend an entire visit here. Check out our favorite things to do while here.

 1. Rides

Snoopy Versus Red Baron

There were so many rides to choose from that catered to my 4 year old's height. We were quite impressed. Your child can begin by re-enacting a popular repeated scene from the Red Baron in a plane ride on Snoopy Versus Red Baron (above). If your child loves cars, trucks etc they will enjoy riding the Peanuts Trailblazer (below)  and Pigpen's Mudbuggies. My son wanted me to ride this one with him and it ended up being one of our most favorite.

Peanuts Trailblazers

In addition, for a height thrill the Kite Eating Tree (below), Camp Bus and Flying Ace Balloon Race are your best bet. Also, for introduction to riding roller coasters you have the option of Snoopy's Junction and Woodstock's Express. For beginners, Wilderness Run would be a good segway as it seems to move at a slower pace. For the thrill seeker, who maybe has a little more experience and enjoys thrill Woodstock's Express (the old Scooby Doo coaster) is your best bet. My son wanted to ride this again and again.

Wilderness Run Coaster Ride

2. Shows 

Nestled beside the Woodstock's Whirlybirds and Peanuts Pirates, is the Camp Theatre. The park hosts fun and interactive shows for the kids throughout the course of the day. We got to partake in a Franklin's Dance party with Franklin and Friends, which, occurs twice a day in the afternoons. It was lots of fun for adults and the kids. Another show offered at select times throughout the day in Camp Snoopy is Charlie Brown's Happy Camper's. There were other offerings in the park outside of Camp Snoopy as well.

Franklin's Dance Party

3. Character Visits

Typically, when you go to a park you rarely see characters moving about. They are stationed in one specific location and you have to wait for a while. Who are we kidding? Sometimes you have to wait for hours the truly test the patience of little ones who want to be on the go. Not at Carowinds though!  We saw a different character about every hour we were there stationed in various locations in Camp Snoopy. The lines were relatively moderate, which, helped us maximize the most of our day and didn't ware on the kids interest. It was a win win and must do.

Meeting Woodstock Near Snoopy's Junction Train Ride

4. Beagle Scout Acres

Looking for a place for the kids to run and play? Searching for a change of pace or waiting on an older sibling to ride a ride? The playground area, Beagle Scout Acres  is the place for you. There are two sections. One is for your younger not as mobile kids from age 1-2. The other play area is for your older kids to imagine, explore and exercise. What a nice change of pace to keep the fun going.

Playing in Beagle Scout Acres while waiting on Big Brother

 Lastly, if you have a child between the ages of 3-5 do consider registering for a Pre-K pass. This pass is free for unlimited visits to the park for the season. Although, registration for the 2018 season is closed, registration for the 2019 season will open in August. This registration window is normally open from August to the spring for the upcoming summer and is definitely worth the time of looking into especially if you plan on repeat visits. Check the following link for more information: https://www.carowinds.com/tickets-passes/pre-k-pass.

How To Fly on a Plane with Kids Under 4

Thinking about taking a plane ride with younger kids can be a bit daunting, but it's actually quite doable. My husband and I recently traveled across the US with our baby and almost four year old. Logistically it can be a nightmare but with clear organization you can make the process move as smoothly as possible on your end by following these simple tips:

Days Before the Flight

1. When scheduling a flight,  select a direct route when possible. The least amount of transitions the better, for small kids.  Also, if you would like to pay a small expense select the Early Board option. We used this option with American Airlines and will be doing so again. It allowed us time to get the kids and all carry-on's in position before others came to the section we sat in.

2. Book your seats together and close to a restroom, if possible. In addition, if you and your family won't be taking up an entire row try to have seats that are near the aisle. This will allow for easier access to restrooms for a potty training toddler or a baby that needs to have a diaper change. If you aren't able to get your seats together, you could always ask someone to switch seats. Chances are they will be more than obliged so that you can eliminate any distraction you may cause them.

The Day Before the Flight

1. Have all important papers and flight documents in location ready to go.

2. Determine the route you will take to get to the airport the day of.

3. Prepare carry on bags including an activity bag for the toddler and a baby diaper bag. Do keep in mind that each person flying gets a carry on. Be mindful of the size.

4. Load your car with the luggage you plan to take on your trip. Remember less is more.

5. Prep all needed toiletry items and clothes that you will need for the morning of. Having everything laid out in place can help you all move more efficiently and get out the door faster.

6. Get the kids to bed early and/or at a time frame that will provide them with plenty of rest for a busy day.

7. Set at least two alarms. Plan for a set time that will give you and your family enough time to get ready and get to the airport with time to spare. In addition, build in extra time for the baby soiling his diaper and clothes just as you are walking out the door, the toddler needs to take another trip to the potty etc. Plan for a hiccup.

San Diego, CA Airport

The Day of your Flight

1. Arrive at least 2 hours early to allow for time to check in, go through baggage claim and travel to the appropriate gate. In addition, this can leave room for a food run and restroom breaks.

2. If traveling with at least two adults, then tag team. Have one adult check in and turn in checked bags while the other watches the kids. Once complete, go to security check- in for carry-on's. Just as an FYI, you can keep your stroller up until you board the plane. We did and it helped a ton.

3. Next, find your gate and terminal that you and your family will be departing from. Then, barring no airline delays that occurred with check-in you should have time to shop, grab a bite to eat, or head to the restrooms a time or two. Sit back, relax and get ready for a great flight.

Navarre Beach/ Florida Panhandle Family Retreat

Navarre Beach, Florida

Navarre Beach has to be one of the most beautiful beaches my family has ever visited. This relaxing, spacious and gorgeous stretch of white sand was just what my family needed to start off the kids summer vacation. The temperature was in the 80's. The weather was partly cloudy to sunny the entire vacation and the water glistened during every aspect of the day. There were people around but it wasn't overly populated like your visit to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina at this of year. This location is a great destination to relax and unwind. 4 of the most enjoyable things we did while there are as follows:

1. Explore the Beach 

Spend the day taking in the breathing taking gulf coast water views while relaxing on a soft bed of white sandy beaches. You can bask in the sun, swim, surf, make sand castles, and hunt for sea shells (Sand-dollars were our most popular find). Several people caught baby minnows, were hunting for crabs and were catching waves. On our first beach outing we got lucky to see a sea turtle, which are, quite prevalent in this location. 

Making Sandcastles

2. Navarre Beach Pier

Taking in the Sights at the Navarre Beach Pier

This pier is a must do for people with many interests. Take photos of the Navarre Beach shore line as you indulge in breath taking views, take a stroll, go fishing, and/ or watch for sea turtles and other aquatic animals in the water. You should have seen all the fish in the water. Those fishing will not go home empty handed. While there, check out the store conveniently placed at the piers entrance for souvenir items and fishing supplies. In addition, the pier entrance has an on-site restaurant with decent food and great views of the beach.

3.  Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum

Do venture out about 1 hour from Navarre Beach to capture aerial gulf coast views at Pensacola Lighthouse. This lighthouse is the tallest of all the Florida Gulf Coast Lighthouses with 177 steps. The views were stunning for us adults to see. There was a height restriction to climb the lighthouse at around 42".  Even though our son couldn't venture up we were able to enjoy touring the grounds, the museum and awe the up close views of this symbol. Learn about the history of Pensacola, and enjoy a nature trail offering beautiful scenery and different vantage points of the lighthouse.

Aerial View from Atop the Lighthouse

4. National Naval Aviation Museum  

Indoor Naval Aviation Playground

The National Naval Aviation Museum located in Pensacola is the world's largest naval museum. This stop was a very highly populated attraction and after visiting one could see why its the one of the most highly visited museums in the state. Check out the plentiful aircraft's and exhibits, experience flight simulations, and participate on Blue Angel Practices and Autograph shows. If you are looking for a chance to let your younger kids get the wiggles out, the bottom floor has an indoor kid launch center (playground). This free attraction is an unforgettable must do.

San Diego Vacation-Seven Must Do's with Kids

San Diego, California

Our family vacation to San Diego over Spring Break was without a doubt one of the best vacation's my family has ever been on. The weather was ideal and in temperature in the 60's-70's. Not to mention there was so much to see and do in this vibrant city that made us feel like one week just wasn't enough. Can't wait to venture back again! Check out our list of favorite's we enjoyed while there.

San Diego Zoo

One of the most famous zoo's in the world and one of the largest zoo's in the United States San Diego Zoo is a must see. There are thousands of animals and plants to observe. We all really enjoyed riding the Skyfari Aerial Tram across the zoo to check out the views of it all. In addition, the Guided Bus Tour through the zoo was quite informative and engaging, even for our four year old. Convenience wise, there are plenty of places to eat and navigation was easy. A day well spent.

 

 

 

USS Midway Museum

 

The USS Midway Museum is a must see. It's captivating from outside but inside as well. Four of the main exhibit types are the Hangar Deck, Flight Deck, Below Deck and Aircraft Gallery (my son's favorite). While there you can enjoy a Guided Tour or if you have unpredictable little's the Self-Guided Tour is a nice option. Don't miss out on the Battle of Midway Theater and Flight Simulations. The museum hosts Catapult and Trap Talks for those who have kids old enough to sit for a set period of time.  Not only educational, but fun. 

Mission Beach 

 After a busy couple days, we decided to spend a more low key day at San Diego's Mission Beach. This peaceful, relaxing gem was a nice break from it all. We had almost of the entire section of the beach to our selves. It was a great day to relax, play in the sand with the kids, read a book and have a picnic. If you were looking for more things to do here though, there is the fun Belmont Park, San Diego Whale Watching Tours and Surfing Classes. A nice retreat away from it all. 

Legoland

Legoland California in Anaheim was a busy and fun day for us all. As a parent, if you got to a park with little's one can assume that there will be age requirements on many rides that may prevent you completing everything. The good news was our four year old didn't experience that too much. 

This park was built for kids between the ages of 3 to upper elementary school kids. Legoland is divided up into different lands based on themes. In each of these lands, there will be offerings of several rides, interactive play areas, and places to dine. Many of the sections had character meet and greets. As a family we enjoyed the Coast Cruise. My four year olds two favorites was the Junior Driving School (seen below) and Coastersaurus. 

La Jolla Beach/Birch Aquarium at Scripps

 La Jolla Beach is a beautiful, local area that provides stunning views. It is boasted at the "Jewel of San Diego". La Jolla is more populated than Mission Beach as it is by a college campus, but still quite spacious. The Children's Pools are a must see. This area is highly claimed by sea lions and seals. Very captivating to watch from afar. The seashore itself was vibrant with swimmers and surfers enjoying the waves. In addition, at Scripps Birch Aquarium there is an on-look with picturesque views of La Jolla. The Aquarium itself had a many exhibits, such as, Hall of Fishes Elasmo Beach and Tide Pool Plaza (my favorite). The exhibit the captivate our kiddos attention the most was boundless energy. This hands-on playground offered a nice transition for some movement.

Disneyland

No trip to this area would have been complete for our family without venturing to Disneyland. We arrived when the parked opened and stayed up until the first firework show that evening. From rides, to food and then to shopping Disney had so much to offer. This park was the perfect size for a family with two kids under 4. In fact, we all rode several rides together. A few of our favorite rides were the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, the Gadget's Go Coaster and Rodger Rabbit's Cartoon Spin. We spent a great deal of our time in Mickey's ToonTown. My family's best memories though came from the Star Wars Bay Launch pad with Star Wars character meet and greets. The most awesome part was if you were a Chase card member or any Disney employee you gained access to fast to meet the incredible, Darth Vader. Note my husband and oldest son's expressions. They were in heaven. Can't wait to visit this park again. 

Cabrillo National Park 

Cabrillo National Park was a awe-struck place to visit. The island is positioned on a peninsula allowing for aerial views of the peninsula, ocean and downtown San Diego. While there we enjoyed visiting the Old Point Loma Lighthouse (above), the Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo Monument, and the Tide Pools at Low tide. We learned a wealth of knowledge about the importance of these historic sites. It was amazing to learn Cabrillo was the first English explorer to set foot on West Coast US soil in the mid 1500's. Quite a nice way to end our San Diego trip.











Lastly, do consider taking advantage of the GO Card SanDiego. This excellent site allows you to select places you would like to go and visit while taking advantage of great deals that save you and your family money. There is a large selection of places to choose from, such as, San Diego Zoo, Legoland, the USS Midway and more. You have the option of accessing an all-inclusive pass or to build your own. Also, you can choose the amount of days for the pass that meets the needs of your families vacation time. Once the purchase is complete, download the required app and pull up your bar codes to be scanned when visiting the location of your choice. We used this while on our vacation and will definitely be doing so again on our next trip to San Diego. 
~ Happy Travels

Supermom Life and Travel Collide

 "Ring! Ring!" the unsatisfactory noise of my 4:45 am alarm goes off. It's time to get up and start another day. I hop out of bed, get ready for work and scurry in tip-toe style downstairs to prep everything for the day before the kids get up. I prepare my work bag, the daycare bag and the baby bag. Then, it's ready to be loaded in the SUV. I wake up a strong-willed four year old that isn't always in the best spirits in the morning. I assist in getting him ready and maneuver to the baby room. There I change, clothe, and feed my smiling little one cooing and glad to see me. 1 of 2 isn't bad right? At that point, my four year old has logged in for his morning session of tablet learning time on ABC Mouse. Once complete, then it's time to load the car and prepare for the 1 hour and 15 minute commute from two childcare drop-offs to my job. One can only hope things run smoothly.

While on my lunch break, I'm on the phone rescheduling appointments for kids and calling a service to come repair our lovely wash machine once more.

Around 3:30 pm, I check my watch for messages and pray the meeting I'm attending will end promptly to allow me enough time to pick up the baby at the sitter by 4. The sitter has other arrangements and can't watch him past this time. While in commute, I respond to phone calls as I know once the car stops I will be preoccupied. Next, I rush to pick up my four year old C, grab dinner, unload the car, re-prep for the next day after eating, practice ABC and number activities with my four year old and complete my main chore tasks downstairs. My husband calls to tell me he is stuck in traffic once more and is running late (He has a two hour commute.) Thus, I take the dog out, give the kid's bathes, read to them and time for bed.

Then it was 8 pm, I was exhausted and I had a family vacation to plan for. The trouble is I had zero interest in searching all over the web to find the perfect ideas. Begrudgingly, I did complete this task over the course of several evenings. And I thought to myself, if other mom's are out there in this same situation why not design a blog that could help make this process a bit easier. After all, planning for a vacation should be exciting, not like a root canal after you've put in a full shift at work and at home. Thus, I designed this blog as a means for mom's to find information about vacations, day-trips and short activities to break out of the norm and have some fun with their families. After all, life is short and I want to spend it making memories that last a lifetime.


Looking forward to sharing more travel and family fun activities with the rest of my Supermom's out there. ~ Gena 

Trying to be a superhero everyday for our two favorite superheroes.