Category: Momgirblog

Test Your Superpowers at the Latest Superhero Exhibit

The South Florida Science Center and Aquarium strikes again! With some of the baddest and best superheroes of all time! Get up close and personal into the life of Batman, Superman and Iron Man to name a few. Test your strengths in mind, body and agility in the latest exhibit, “Hall of Heroes!” I took the kiddos on a rainy day over winter break to check it out and it was well received…especially by my 7-year-old son. 

“In our mission to open every mind to science, we strive through our exhibits to make sure learning is fun,” said Kate Arrizza, CEO of the Science Center. “Hall of Heroes is the perfect way to get kids to find out more about the physics and chemistry behind superpowers like thermodynamics and X-ray vision, as well as the history behind the heroes. Science and imagination go together to help us advance and shape our future.”

The exhibit takes you through the history and evolution of superheroes dating back to the 1930’s, with a few interactive stations. The idea is to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills and to explore new concepts through discovery, as you are transported back to the Golden, Silver, Bronze and Modern Ages. When you walk in, you can test your knowledge and get a secret code to unlock a safe. See what it’s like to match up against major wind speeds and what it’s like to use a robotic hand. Are you as fast as a superhero? Test your running pace in a race against time. Do you think you have what it takes to hang from a building? Try to beat the top time and test your strength to hang on for dear life. My favorite part? Seeing the progression of all of the Bat Mobiles over the decades. From the first movie to today, I loved looking at the models of the iconic vehicle that shaped the career of one the most beloved superheroes. Learn the chemistry and physics behind superpowers like thermodynamics and x-ray vision and try to build your best superhero vehicle out of blocks. (I was not successful at this! lol)

The first Bat Mobile to ever fly from 1969 TV show will welcome guests at Palm Beach International Airport. While Wonder Woman, Iron Man and The Incredible Hulk will greet guests entering the Science Center. 

My son’s favorite part of the exhibit was using an electronic hand. It takes great skill to move the arm back and forth and push buttons that controlled the movement of the robots fingers to pick up blocks and move them from place to place. Highly recommend catching the exhibit that runs through April 19th while you can.

-Briana D’Andrea

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2020 Must-Have Supplements

2020! New decade, new year, new YOU! I’ve put together my top 5 supplements I love and swear by. Whole Foods Market is having their annual supplement sale January 3rd-5th, but if you can’t make it to the store, feel free to shop through my Amazon links! Reach out if you have any questions and here’s to feeling and looking your best in 2020!!

New Chapter Daily Multi-Vitamin

Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Fish Oils

Garden of Life Once Daily Probiotic

Gaia Kids Elderberry Syrup

Rainbow Light Counterattack

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Top 10 Holiday Gifts under $50 for everyone on your list!

Season’s greetings! I’ve narrowed down my top 10 holiday gifts for everyone on your list for under $50! Some of these sets can be broken up and used for significant others, teachers, parents, friends, aunts, uncles, grandparents, teens, children, the list goes on! Hope you enjoy and happy shopping!!!

Brouk and Co. Duo Travel Organizer for Cosmetics and Jewelry: One of “Oprah’s Favorite Things,” this top Lower zippered jewelry compartment features two enclosed pockets, rings/earrings pillow, and mirror.
9.5” (L) x3.5” (W) x 6” (H)
Made of premium vegan leather
Nylon lining on top, soft-Suede lining on bottom
A smart solution for the savvy traveler
$48, plus save and extra 20% with a coupon!
These four essential men’s products, conveniently sized to take on-the-go, feature Sequoia Stem Cell Complex to help protect skin and hair from everyday stress.
Counterman Carry-On Includes:
Counterman Purifying Shampoo: This daily shampoo cleanses away dirt and oil without stripping the hair or scalp.
Counterman Energizing Charcoal Body Wash: Made with an invigorating blend of natural rosemary, mint, and citrus oils and activated charcoal, this energizing body wash purifies and detoxifies skin.
Counterman Daily Exfoliating Cleanser: This gentle daily cleanser, featuring exfoliating jojoba beads and soothing Aloe Vera, removes dirt, oil, and other impurities while sloughing away dead skin cells to help unclog pores.
Counterman Oil-Free Face Lotion: This lightweight and non-greasy daily moisturizer absorbs quickly and boosts hydration. Corn starch helps to minimize shine while Taurine helps to boost skin’s resiliency.
$45
Sony SRS-XB12 Extra Bass Portable Bluetooth Speaker:
On “Oprah’s Favorite Things” list and an Amazon Exclusive!
Extra bass for Deep, punchy sound
Waterproof and Dustproof (IP67 rated)
Up to 16 hours of battery life
Compact portable design with included detachable strap
Add an extra speaker for stereo sound
In the box: USB cable, strap (attached to product body), card
Smack, pucker, and pout—these universally flattering lip glosses glide on easily and pack a delicious punch. The lightweight, cushiony texture delivers an ultra-glossy hint of color. Sweetened with Stevia, each of the five shades has its own unique scent experience: Raspberry, Butterscotch, Orange Cream, Peppermint, and Sorbet. $39 for the set! These WILL sell out!


Shades Include:

Raspberry
Butterscotch
Orange Cream
Peppermint
Sorbet
Burt’s Bees Organic Argyle Christmas Pajamas:
I’m always on the hunt for matching family Pjs! These Burt’s Bees pajamas come in every size, for every member of the family! Plus, they’re 100% organic! Safe and in style…what more could you ask for?
$10.15-$39.95
Achieve an easy, polished look in seconds with these three essential products.
Fresh Faced Trio Includes:
Brilliant Brow Gel in Invisible (3 ML / 0.1 OZ): Groom your brows with our invisible, flake-proof, light-hold formula made with organic conditioners that leave your brows soft to the touch. A tapered applicator makes for a precise, fool-proof application. Suitable for every brow color.
Lengthening Mascara (5 ML / 0.2 OZ): Add length and definition with nourishing plant-derived ingredients, including rice bran and carnauba wax to help condition lashes. Our unique precision brush perfectly separates, defines, and coats each lash. 
The Jellies in Sorbet (6 ML / 0.21 FL OZ): Get an ultra-glossy sheer wash of color with this lightweight, cushiony, and universally flattering lip gloss in Sorbet.
$45
Ecoffee Cup Red/ Red Silicon:
Another “Oprah’s Favorite Things,” made the list!
300 billion single-use cups are manufactured each year. Only 1% are recycled
Reusable Over And Over With ‘No-Drip’ Lid
Light, bright and beautiful with no flavor taint, so your coffee won’t end up tasting like plastic or metal
BPS, BPA, phthalate, and latex-free. Proudly LFBG, FDS, Japan Food Compliant
Made with natural fiber, corn starch, and resin. Fully dishwasher safe
$13.99

This trio of lightweight hand lotions—enriched with shea butter, grapeseed and jojoba oils, and squalane—deliver rich, non-greasy hydration that protects hands against winter weather’s drying effects. Gift as a set, split up into multiple presents, or pair with our coordinating Body Butter Trio for an ultra-hydrating treat.


Three limited-edition Holiday scents include: 
Fresh Petal
Mandarin Violet
Soft Neroli
$34
Cozy Winter Slipper Socks Women & Men w Non-Slip Grippers Faux Fur Sherpa:
WARM & COZY, Unisex, 75 different designs & 100% animal friendly! Pamper and treat your feet by slipping into warmth and comfort in a pair of Pudus Slipper Socks. With an elevated level of softness, the thick and extra-fluffy Sherpa lining provide a cozy pillow feeling with every step!
$24.99
The ultimate travel companion for skin and hair that’s clean, soft and cared-for—anywhere. Includes travel-size versions of our most popular body and hair care products, all in our signature citrus mimosa scent, to tuck into your toiletry kit, gym bag or work tote.


Beautycounter Travel Companion Includes:
Daily Shampoo: This purifying shampoo gently cleanses without stripping hair.
Daily Conditioner: This daily conditioner is designed to help nourish hair, smooth strands and leave hair looking shiny.
Body Wash: This creamy cleanser leaves skin feeling soft, hydrated, and refreshed.
Hydrating Body Lotion: This lightweight, fast-absorbing body lotion helps keep skin feeling soft and supple.
$35

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Breast Cancer Awareness Safer Switches

October is Breast Cancer Prevention/Awareness month! If you follow me on Instagram, I’ve been giving you daily tips with regards to safer switches. Below are my top 5 safer alternatives to limit your toxic intake!

Food Prep Containers with Lids: Research shows, plastic can leach harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates into your food and beverages and then into you! Using glass is a much safer alternative and helps with food prep for the week! Win-win!

S’well Water Bottle: Same goes for plastic water bottles! I always try to carry one around wherever I go! Keeps you hydrated and you’re not drinking any potential toxic ingredients seeping into your water!

Tulip Perfume: The word “fragrance,” is a cocktail of ingredients, masking countless carcinogens and hormone disrupting chemicals. Fragrance can be found in almost HALF of all personal care products! Be especially cautious when it comes to children’s products! Use the EWG app to scan products around your home to see its level of toxicity. If I had a nickel for every time someone asked me where I got this perfume! It’s the perfect blend of lemon and sugar, without being overpowering and minus the harsh fragrance!

Safer Makeup: It’s perfectly legal for companies to use ingredients linked to cancer, endocrine disruption and reproductive harm in cosmetics and personal care products. With Beautycounter’s makeup you don’t have to choose between safety and performance!

LODGE Cast Iron: Some toxic compounds are used in non-stick cookware. While they keep food and stains from sticking, they stick around your body for a very long time and have been linked to cancer. I absolutely LOVE my cast iron skillet! You can literally cook anything you want in it AND it’s oven safe! It’s time to ditch the teflon and non-stick pans!

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Back to School Items You Might Have Forgotten!

Can you believe that summer is coming to a close and back to school is upon us? We’ve got a first grader and a preschooler on our hands and we couldn’t be more proud of them! Below is a list of my top 10 back to school must haves that you might have forgotten!

  1. Backup Polos: Most schools require a uniform and these Amazon Basics are comfy & affordable! Plus they come in an array of colors! Always get back ups!

2. Hershel Backpacks: These are the new age Jansports of our time! They are weather proof and come in a variety of sizes and styles! I have the army print and I love it!

3. Lunchbots are 2 legit!: They’re good for the environment and the ones we love, bc they skip the BPA with their metal packaging and the hassle it takes to pack everything up in the morning! Just enough space and at a great price point!

4. Simple Modern Insulated Water Bottles: Never got thirsty with these trusty insulated water bottles. They come in a variety of sizes, colors and lids.

5. Electric Pencil Sharpener: I don’t know about you, but we are always sharpening pencils in our home. Skip the fuss and add this to your back to school list this year, you’ll be glad you did!


6. Desktop Organizer: With the amount of paperwork, homework and back to school tasks, this desktop organizer, makes it easy to have a place for everything and put everything in its place.

7. Hand Sanitizing Wipes: Back to school means back to germs! Skip the stress and have these handy while on the go! Skip the harmful ingredients too!


8. Adidas Slides: I’ve linked these before and I’m linking them again, because they’re the best shoe for running to and from car pool and pick up line! Mine were pink with some palms, but I might have to snag these too!

9. Inside Out Umbrella: This umbrella is like literal magic. It flips inside out, so that you’re not stuck fighting to close it in the rain and getting soaking wet! My Floridians know what I’m talking about!

10. Everyone knows the minute you get the kids from school they’re hungry. Plus when you and your littles are in the car waiting to pick the big kids up you’ve got to curb your snacking, so this little trust container should help!

Hope you enjoyed my top 10 back to school must haves! Have suggestions? Drop them here!

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Voyage MIA Feature!

What a treat to collaborate with Voyage Miami on their latest feature! When I was first approached by the internet magazine company that focuses on local entrepreneurs…I thought to myself…me? It’s quite the honor to use my platform to tell my story. Shoutout to Erica Bachelor for submitting me and Dani Napert Photography, for her amazing photog skills! Check out the article to read my story, my struggles and my triumphs. Appreciate those who have supported me from the jump! 🤩

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A Rainforest Right Here In South Florida

The Science Center is always a great idea, especially during the brutal Florida summer months! This time our little family took a trip to visit their latest exhibit, “Rainforest Adventure: Inspiring Wonder for the Natural World.” I particularly have a sweet spot for the rainforest, because my husband and I had our honeymoon in Costa Rica, back in 2010! There’s something about the lush landscape, coastal views, the exotic animals and not to mention the food, that keep me so intrigued, by such an amazing eco-system. It was really neat to be able to experience that with my two small children and give them a tiny glimpse into what it was like when we were fortunate enough to experience the rainforest almost nine years ago! 

When you step inside the exhibit you are immediately transported to the tropical ambience of the rainforest. A maze is set up in the exhibit space for the kids to explore and learn fun facts, like the rainforest it is one of the least known habitats on Earth! They had the opportunity to see what it was like to swing like a monkey, climb up a spider web and test their frog jumping skills! They even had the chance to see what it was like to zipline though the trees. There’s a little interactive spot where, you can smell all of the things native to the region in a little sensory area. Things like chocolate and fruits and spices immediately transport you to the lush landscapes and immerse you into the culture of South America. As you exit, there is an area where the kids can learn all about ways to help conserve the rainforest and our eco-system. Things like conserving water, recycling and reducing our use of plastic. 

I highly recommend beating the heat and cooling off in this makeshift rainforest exhibit that runs through September 4th. If you’re looking for things to do for the kids during summer, winter or spring breaks, The Science Center does offer camps for children throughout the year. The program is designed to highlight seasonal science workshops. From experiments to technology teachings and everything in between. Plus the recently added brain exhibit, larger than life dinosaurs and new splash pad and mini golf course are sure to make it fun-filled day. They offer day passes and annual passes too! 

-Briana D. 

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Disney’s Polynesian Resort is everything and MORE!

I should start off by saying my husband and I have managed to stay at almost every. single. resort on Walt Disney World property! You name it, we’ve experienced it. Budget friendly, mid range and even the best of the best. As a little girl, I remember my first trip to Walt Disney World. I was in the third grade…8 years old. It literally changed my life. I know that may sound a tad overdramatic, but listen here. I grew up in Brooklyn, we played hopscotch on the sidewalk, played on the stairs inside when it snowed and were lucky to hit up a carnival every now and again with the fam. My kids are straight up spoiled! When we lived in O-town for a brief stint, I remember my then 4-year-old boy saying we’re going to Disney AGAIN?! I about chewed his head off and proceeded to tell him about how some people were lucky to visit Disney ONCE in their lifetime! I haven’t heard a word from the kid since.

I can remember it like yesterday…taking the monorail and seeing the double doors open up to an untouchable world of wonder. The Contemporary Resort, The Grand Floridian (which we have stayed at too and I feel is a completely different post) and The Polynesian. That feeling of being so enamored with what’s in front of you, that it takes over your entire body. I remember saying to myself, “Oh, I’ll be back some day!” So, for my 35th birthday, my son’s 6th and our 8th wedding anniversary, we finally made it happen! We literally picked our son & daughter up from school and booked it to the Mouse’s House!

Upon arrival, you’re greeted by an incredible waterfall and the smell of pineapple and coconut is all consuming. The lobby literally transports you to the South Pacific (a place my friend, we will too someday visit), complete with lush landscape, smooth island sounds and a vibe unlike any other hotel on property. P.s. According to Disney.com, it’s been a fan fave since the 70’s! You are then greeted by staff with a lei (a symbol of affection and warm welcome).

Disney’s Polynesian Resort Lobby

While the hubby was checking us in, a woman was walking around in search of the honorary family to be a part of their fire ceremony, to which I immediately volunteered! Bless the hubby for going along with my antics. He took his newly upgraded lei and waited for his cue alongside us! A quick conch shell blow and the ceremony was off to a start! We stood at the front of the lobby and we’re announced in front of everyone “Aloha, please help me welcome The D’Andrea family!” We proceeded out to the lawn) which by the way overlooks the Magic Kingdom and Bay Lake) and took our front row seats for an incredible fire dance put on by one of the infamous dancers known for the “Spirit of Aloha” lively luau, (which we did by the way for my birthday the year prior! Most definitely on my recommended to-do list!) We then were asked to come to the front and say “Aloha!” and pose for pictures! What an incredible way to start off quite the fantastic trip!

The rooms are nice and super chill and the hotel itself is a place where for once, we weren’t trying to rush off to the parks! Whether you get the opportunity to lounge by the amazing pools with the Magic Kingdom as a backdrop or you walk the grounds with your toes in the sand alongside the new villas representative of life in Bali (another bucket list item), there’s no shortage of fun to be had at The Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. I would have to say one of the best parts, besides being so close to the parks via monorail is the fact that you can treat yourself to a Dole Whip any time of day! (My absolute favorite treat, which can usually only be found in the Magic Kingdom!)

A Dole Whip at the Pineapple Lanai!
Pool overlooking Bay Lake & The Magic Kingdom!
“Bali-esque” Beaches

One of the mornings we did decide to splurge on a character breakfast with Mickey, Pluto and Lilo & Stitch at “Ohana” (translates to family), which was all worth it for the mouthwatering sticky buns they provide before your meal even starts! (I’ll have to look up a recipe for that one! Ha!)

Character Breakfast with our buddy Pluto!
The “sticky bread” was everything!!
Fun with Lilo!
Hugs for Stich!

All in all, the trip was absolutely memorable and one for the books! One that in fact couldn’t be topped! So much so, that we opted to put our passes on hold and venture out to D.C. this summer for the 4th! Full report upon return. Don’t worry though, come fall and less sticky weather you can find the D’Andrea’s back in the Disney saddle with the launch of Star Wars! Make sure to follow me on Instagram @brianadandrea for an inside look at my crazy family, fun recipes and all things wellness! Until then…ALOHA!

-Briana D.

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Earth Day Amazon Picks!

Happy Earth Day friends! After more than 20 years of trial and error and tons of personal research…I’ve listed my Top 7 non-toxic cleaning products I swear by and I’m sure you will fall in love with them too! Have questions? Just ask! Simply use the links to shop now and celebrate Earth Day with me! xo -Briana D.

Seventh Generation Disinfecting Multi-Surface Wipes, Lemongrass Citrus, 70 count Tubs (Pack of 6)
LOVE these Seventh Generation Disinfecting Wipes! Great for on the go and safe! Plus, there’s a 30% off coupon!


Earth Friendly Products ECOS 2X Liquid Laundry Detergent, Magnolia & Lily, 200 Loads, 100 FL OZ (Pack of 2)
My go to brand for laundry detergent! Comes in a variety of scents minus the harsh fragrance most laundry detergents have! Love that it comes in a 2 -pack!
Seventh Generation Chlorine Free Bleach, Free & Clear, 64oz, 2pk
Since we’re on the topic of laundry…skip all the harsh ingredients and still get stains out of your clothes!
Method Dish Soap, Basil, 18 Ounce (Pack 6)
This dish soap not only removes scum and dirt, but the basil smell is absolutely divine! Such a steal for a pack of 6!
Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Gel, Lemon Scent, 42 oz (Pack of 6)
You are what you eat! You shouldn’t have to ingest harmful chemicals in order to get your dishes squeaky clean! This is my go to dishwasher liquid!
Better Life Natural All-Purpose Cleaner, Safe Around Kids & Pets, 32 Ounces (Pack of 2), 2409C
My latest obsession is this Better Life All-Purpose Cleaner! It’s safe for children and pets and gets the job done! Plus, it’s super affordable!
365 Everyday Value, 100% Recycled Dinner Napkin, 100 ct
Totally durable 100% recycled dinner napkins for easy cleanup or to be as fancy as you wanna be! Only $3.29!

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Our Journey Through the Human Brain

Buckle up and hang on tight as we take a journey through the human brain! The brain is quite the fascinating organ. It’s literally the command center of the human body and speaks to our central nervous system. Responsible for your best kept memories, your feelings, your emotions and the very function of our bodies. 

My family and I were able to meander through the $2.5 million dollar exhibit, that is now a permanent fixture at The South Florida Science Center and Aquarium. The space spans 2,500 square feet and is a journey through the inner workings of our brain and its funcitonalities. “The Journey Through the Human Brain,” starts at the molecular and cellular level and transitions into the makeup that is responsible for our hopes, fears and memories. 

When you make your way inside the exhibit, you are greeted by an actual brain that was preserved and put out on display, which by the way was a favorite of mine! There are a number of interactive puzzles and technology stations, 30 to be exact…all leaving you completely immersed and fascinated by the inner workings of the human brain.

I enjoyed being able to see both the nerves that makeup the inside of the brain, as well. As for the children, they really got a kick out of putting together a puzzle that made up the entire brain, as well as a section where you could use your five senses to see, smell, hear and touch different items. From a touch screen display, that was essentially an in depth crash course to the human brain and even a fun lie detector test, there was no shortage of educational and interactive fun to be had. 

One fascinating thing we learned was that a person’s brain isn’t fully developed until the age of 25, however 90 percent of a child’s brain is developed by the age of 5…definitely some food for thought. 

“Presenting an exhibit of such depth and breadth has been an incredible challenge, but we have drawn upon the talents and expertise of some of our tops minds in the region and the world,” said Lew Crampton, Science Center President. 

The exhibit is a project that was three years in the making for the science center and is the most advanced display of the brain in the country. With high-tech displays, immersive experiences and state of the art equipment, the exhibit is sure to be a fan favorite, with something for every member of the family. 

–Briana D.

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