Discover Nutley’s Best Kept Secret: LoCurcio Family Markets (AKA ShopRite of Nutley, NJ) 🍕

If you’re in Nutley and craving a feel‑good foodie outing, you must stop by LoCurcio Family Markets, also known as ShopRite of Nutley. Located at 437 Franklin Avenue, Nutley, NJ 07110, this family‑run gem has been owned by the LoCurcio family since 1932 and is part of the well‑loved ShopRite chain.


🍕 Pizza That’s a Show and a Taste Sensation

We recently grabbed a fresh, electric oven made pizza for lunch it was simply unforgettable. Watching the chef spin that pie high into the air was mesmerizing, especially for our kids. And the cheese pull? Absolutely insane—the kind that makes everyone go, “Whoa!” My daughter Emilia couldn’t stop exclaiming how “fresh and delicious” it tasted. The best part? It was made in under 5 minutes so no whiny “I’m hungry” exclamations from the kids.


🛍️ A Pre-Made Section Designed for Busy Parents

Dinnertime decision fatigue? Not here. Their prepared‑foods section is a lifesaver for tired, working parents like us. We snagged a delicious dinner for the night of our visit and lunch for the next day—total game‑changer. Jason loved the beef empanadas, while I grabbed the grilled chicken Caprese. The portions are huge, and at great prices. They had fresh a plethora salads, meatless options, sandwiches, wings, ribs, a hot buffet, a cold buffet… I could go on and on. You’d have to see it for yourself.


🎈 Kid-Approved Discoveries

The kids had a blast exploring. They discovered a beautiful glass rose and a quirky frog planter. They also found squeeze‑balls, jack‑in‑a‑bag toys, and bouncy outdoor balls. It turned one quick grocery run into a mini adventure! Be sure to check out the floral area for stunning arrangements, planters, and bouquets!


🍓 Produce & Cheese Selection—Unreal

The fruit and cheese displays were jaw‑droppingly impressive. A perfect blend of fresh local produce and specialty cheeses (hello international cheese department!). We brought home “sprinkle cheese” – (grated Parmesan). We also got a ton of seasonal fruits. These included strawberries, cantaloupe, apples, bananas, and pineapples. Everything was so fresh and delicious. It was an excellent chance for the kids to review fruits and vegetables. We also explained the importance of eating whole foods!


🏪 The Details of LoCurcio Family Markets


🏁 Final Slice: Why You’ll Love It

LoCurcio’s isn’t just another grocery store—it’s a delightful family experience. Come for the hot, fresh pizza (with live spinning action!), stay for the variety, community vibe, and killer prices. Ideal spot for one-stop shopping, family fun, and delicious eats. Both cherubs asked, “When are we going back? That supermarket had everything!


👉 Ready to Make Nutley’s Best Pizza Night Plan?

Stop in, grab a pie, and stock up at great prices. You and the kids will thank yourselves!



Head to 437 Franklin Ave, follow them on Instagram, like their Facebook page, and check out their ShopRite profile. Then come taste what everyone’s raving about—and let Emilia’s “fresh and delicious” verdict guide your next family pizza night!

Celebrate Compassion, Courage, and Praise — Two Beautiful New Children’s Books + a Giveaway!

As a mom and pediatric occupational therapist, I’m always drawn to books that encourage kindness, spark meaningful conversations, and help kids embrace who they are. Today, I’m thrilled to spotlight two heart-filled children’s books that do just that: Every Day Is a Holiday by Greg Kincaid and Fiona and the Peculiar Praise by Rennie Dyball. These stories shine in their own unique ways—but both remind us of the power of love, empathy, and being true to ourselves.

And the best part? I’m giving away 3 copies of Fiona and the Peculiar Praise over on Instagram! Keep reading for details.


Every Day Is a Holiday by Greg Kincaid

This heartwarming tale introduces us to Allie McCray, a sweet six-year-old who discovers an abandoned puppy on the doorstep of her local animal shelter. As she searches for the perfect name for the playful pup, young readers are taken on a thoughtful journey full of love, joy, and meaningful moments.

Every Day Is a Holiday celebrates the beautiful bonds we form with the animals we adopt into our families. It’s also a gentle reminder of the importance of compassion, kindness, and taking time to celebrate life’s everyday moments. With rich illustrations and accessible language, this book is ideal for early readers and perfect for bedtime snuggles or classroom discussions about empathy and animal care.

Emilia has such a strong bond with our rescue dog, Gino. Reading Every Day Is a Holiday opened up a meaningful conversation about his adoption story—how we found him, how we came up with his name, and what it means to adopt rather than shop.

It was one of those moments where a book sparked something deeper. We talked about the importance of giving animals a second chance, the joy they bring into our lives, and the responsibility that comes with being a pet owner.

Not long after, Emilia was chosen to be a “book reviewer” at school. Without hesitation, she selected Every Day Is a Holiday and gave it an enthusiastic 10 out of 5 stars. I think that says it all.

This book didn’t just entertain—it connected to her heart, and ours.


Fiona and the Peculiar Praise by Rennie Dyball

Meet Fiona, affectionately known as Queen Fiona of Apartment 4C. She’s not just a pretty face; Fiona is clever, brave, and incredibly helpful. Yet, despite her many accomplishments, like catching a rogue mouse, and entertaining the family, she finds that everyone only comments on her appearance. Frustrated by the lack of recognition for her noble deeds, Fiona longs for appreciation of her true, intrinsic qualities.

Through Fiona’s humorous and relatable experiences, this charming picture book delivers an important message: it’s what’s on the inside that truly counts. Illustrated by Maine Diaz, children aged 5 to 8 will enjoy Fiona’s playful adventure with a very important lesson.

Emilia loves Fiona and the Peculiar Praise because she sees a little bit of herself in Fiona—someone who works hard, helps others, and wants to be noticed for more than just how she looks with her beautiful blonde hair and blue eyes. She found Fiona’s adventures funny and exciting, especially the part about catching the mouse, but what really stood out to her was how Fiona wanted people to recognize her kindness and cleverness. After we finished reading, Emilia said, “Fiona is more than cute—she’s smart and helpful.” This book helped her understand that true praise comes from who you are on the inside, not just what people see on the outside.

It opened up great discussions on the kind of compliments we give and receive—how it’s easy to focus on appearance, but much more meaningful to recognize qualities like kindness, bravery, and helpfulness. Emilia and I talked about times when she felt proud of something she did, and how good it feels when someone notices those efforts. We also talked about how she can complement her friends in ways that make them feel seen and valued for who they are, not just how they look.


🎉 Instagram Giveaway!
Want to add Fiona and the Peculiar Praise by Rennie Dyball to your home or classroom library? I’m giving away 3 copies over on Instagram!

🗓 Enter by: June 5
📲 Head to @realmofvibes and check out the giveaway post for all the details!

These books are a reminder that kindness counts, intrinsic qualities are worth celebrating, and every day is a chance to love big.

Be sure to check out the publisher, 4U2B Books & Media, on Instagram @4u2bbooks. They offer a wonderful collection of meaningful, heartwarming stories, perfect for sparking important conversations with young readers. Their books are thoughtful, beautifully illustrated, and full of messages that truly resonate with kids and parents alike.

Happy reading,
Danielle
@realmofvibes

Roscoe Mountain Club – Roscoe, NY

Our family packed up and headed to the beautiful Catskill Mountains for a cozy winter getaway at Roscoe Mountain Club. Jason and I are no strangers to Roscoe, New York—we love relaxing, hiking, fishing, and enjoying peaceful meals in this charming town. This time, we brought the kids to experience it with us, making for an unforgettable family adventure. We stayed in the Frankel House, one of the charming lodging options on the property, and it was the perfect home base for our adventure.

Where We Stayed

Roscoe Mountain Club offers a variety of lodging options to suit any traveler. The Inn boasts 24 newly renovated rooms with one or two beds, perfect for families or couples seeking a cozy and comfortable stay. For larger groups, Burt’s Lodge and the spacious townhomes provide a private, roomy retreat. We absolutely loved the rustic charm of the Frankel House, which blends timeless character with modern amenities for a truly relaxing atmosphere. With four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining room, a large living room, a loft area, and a foosball table, the Frankel House had everything we needed. The stunning deck was the perfect spot to take in the breathtaking mountain views.

Fun at The Barn & Ice Skating Firsts

One of our favorite places to hang out was The Barn, a cozy guest lounge filled with games, and comfy seating. The kids loved watching movies while playing foosball, ping pong, darts, Connect 4, and a ring toss game. It was such a fun spot to unwind after a day of activities! The Barn is not only a cozy guest lounge but also a lively venue that hosts live entertainment during events, festivals, and special occasions, making it the perfect spot to enjoy music and community gatherings.

Speaking of activities, Emilia had her first-ever ice skating experience at the on-site rink, and it was such a proud parent moment! Watching her wobble at first, determined to keep going, and then gain confidence on the ice with the help of a skating trainer was incredible. Nicholas cheered her on from the sidelines, and the whole family had a blast. The firepits and Adirondack chairs, perfectly placed near the rink, offered a cozy retreat to relax and warm up while soaking in the vibrant winter atmosphere.

Delicious Eats at 1907

The on-site restaurant, 1907, blew us away with its food. The buffalo wings were crispy and packed with flavor, and the French toast was absolutely decadent—both were big hits with our family. It’s fantastic to have an on-site restaurant that serves family-friendly food, making mealtime convenient, stress-free, and enjoyable for everyone! They also serve beers from Roscoe Beer Co., which are some of our favorites. A cold, locally brewed beer after a day in the snow? Yes, please!

A Little Bit of Everything

One thoughtful touch we really appreciated was the lobby shop, which had merchandise and essentials like OTC medications—because let’s be real, sometimes you forget the little things when traveling with kids! We also received some super cool shirts to remember our experience at Roscoe Mountain Club.

I also tried snowshoeing for the first time, and wow—what an experience! It was an amazing workout and a peaceful way to take in the snowy mountain scenery. Definitely something I’d love to do again.

Roscoe Mountain Club has an on-site fitness facility that offers everything you need to stay active, including a rower, elliptical, free weights, a Theraball, and medicine balls. Whether you’re getting in a full workout or just stretching after a day of adventure, you’ll have everything you need to feel your best!

Can’t Wait to Return in Warmer Months

While we had an amazing time experiencing Roscoe Mountain Club in the winter, we’re already dreaming about returning when the weather warms up. With scenic hiking trails, a beautiful golf course (I might even try a lesson since I’ve never golfed before!), and a lake perfect for fishing, it’s clear that our whole family will love it. Plus, the pickleball courts add even more fun for everyone to enjoy!

Family-Friendly Fun at Roscoe Beer Co.

We also made a stop at Roscoe Beer Co., and it’s quickly become one of our favorite family-friendly spots. The games and a trout-filled fish tank entertained the kids, while Jason and I relaxed with some cold beers. The service is consistently fantastic, and it’s a must-visit when you’re in the area. We love the delicious family-friendly food like pretzels, burgers, and fries, and Emilia couldn’t get enough of the homemade root beer—we even brought some home! Jason and I always leave with a few 4-packs, a perfect way to relive the trip when we return home.

Plan Your Own Trip!

Our weekend at Roscoe Mountain Club was filled with laughter, adventure, and amazing memories. If you’re looking for a getaway that offers great lodging, delicious food, and activities for all seasons, we highly recommend checking it out. You can book your stay at roscoemountainclub.com. We can’t wait to go back!

Spreading Joy with CardSnacks: Creative Digital Cards for Every Occasion

In our fast-paced world, staying connected with the people who matter most can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Between work, errands, and the chaos of daily life, it’s all too easy for texts to go unanswered and for phone calls to get missed. I’ve always taken pride in sending out personalized, handwritten cards. However, with the hustle and bustle of the upcoming holidays, my to-do list has become overwhelming. Between work commitments, family gatherings, and the general chaos of the season, I just haven’t had the time or memory to keep up with this beloved tradition this year. That’s where CardSnacks came to my rescue, turning moments of connection into something meaningful and memorable.

This holiday season, simplify your card-sending process with CardSnacks. You can easily create and send personalized holiday cards in just a few clicks. Include photos, videos, stickers, GIFs, and more to make each card uniquely yours. You can even add holiday music to your card – CardSnacks has many classic holiday songs. Browse their extensive Holiday Card Categories to find the perfect design or customize your e-card to add a personal touch. Not only can you send holiday cards, but CardSnacks offers a perfect solution for last-minute gifts. If you can’t spend the holidays with loved ones due to distance, send them a heartfelt CardSnack. You can send the cards by text or email. It’s a thoughtful way to show you care, even from afar. Check out their holiday card category here!

The Power of “Just Thinking of You”

A few weeks ago, I struggled to reach my dad. He did not return several of my phone calls and texts. Life gets busy for both of us, but I didn’t want the silence to feel like distance. That’s when I remembered CardSnacks. With just a few taps, I crafted a digital card. It perfectly expressed how much I missed him. It also showed that I was thinking of him. I customized it with a heartfelt message, a cheerful cover, and an upbeat song playing in the background.

The response? Instant. My dad texted me back within minutes, telling me how much the card brightened his day. He admitted it was the nudge he needed to make time for a call. In that moment, CardSnacks wasn’t just a platform for sending digital cards; it was a bridge that brought us closer.

I added GIFs, a personal voice note, a picture of Gino, a background, and text to the inside of the card to my Dad.

Celebrating Friendship in Small but Mighty Ways

Another memorable experience with CardSnacks came when my best friend went above and beyond to help me with Nick’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) for preschool. She spent hours reviewing documents, sharing her expertise, and offering emotional support. I wanted to thank her in a way that felt as special as her effort.

I found the perfect card template in the “Thank You” section of CardSnacks and personalized it with an inside joke, a cute GIF, and a heartfelt note about how much her support meant to me. It was quick to send but packed with genuine emotion. She told me it felt like a hug in digital form.

What Makes CardSnacks Special?

Here are some of the standout features that make CardSnacks my go-to for creating meaningful connections:

  1. Wide Variety of Templates: From birthdays to “just because,” CardSnacks has a template for every occasion. Whether you want to say “thank you,” “congratulations,” or “I’m sorry,” there’s something for everyone. CardSnacks also has every common and obscure calendar holiday. I never knew we could celebrate “National Pickle Day” and “World UFO Day!”
  2. Easy Customization: Add personal touches with photos, videos, stickers, GIFs, music, and text. You can even voice-record a message. The interface makes it simple to craft a greeting card that’s unique to your personality.
  3. Instant Delivery: Cards can be sent via text or email. This option is perfect for last-minute celebrations or spontaneous expressions of care.
  4. Schedule Ahead: This feature is wonderful for those who want to schedule to send!
  5. Group Cards: Collaborate with friends or family to create a card bursting with love and shared memories.
  6. Attach Gift Cards or Gifts: Easily include a gift card or physical gift with your card to make your gesture even more special and practical. CardSnacks offers gift cards to over 400 different retailers. The best part about sending a physical gift through CardSnacks is that you don’t need to know the recipient’s address. When they receive the card, they can simply enter their mailing address. This takes the pressure off you and allows the recipient to choose where they want the gift shipped!

Why CardSnacks Works for Everyone

Life gets hectic, but moments of connection don’t have to be lost. With CardSnacks, you can transform the simple act of reaching out into something extraordinary. Whether you’re bridging a gap, celebrating a win, or simply saying “I’m here,” this app makes it easier than ever to show you care. As a busy working mom, I appreciate the user-friendly interface of the website and app. It makes staying connected to family and friends so much easier.

CardSnacks has a special holiday promo for personal plans! Use the code LASTMIN24 by 12/25/24 to get $10 off in-app personal CardSnacks subscriptions with no shipping deadlines. Click here to take advantage of this offer!

If you haven’t tried CardSnacks yet, now is the perfect time. It’s a small gesture that makes a big impact. CardSnacks can be the spark that lights up their day and fosters more genuine communication.

Have you tried CardSnacks, yet? What experiences have you had sending virtual greeting cards? Let me know in the comments!

Save 30% with Code HOLI30: Perfect Holiday Cards from Basic Invite

Sponsored Post: all opinions are my own

Our Christmas card and New Year’s Eve party invitations are absolutely perfect, thanks to Basic Invite!

What do I love about using Basic Invite?

  • Unlimited Color Options: Basic Invite is one of the few websites that offers almost unlimited color options with instant online previews. Once you select a design, you can customize the color of each element on the card. With over 180 colors to choose from, your invitation will be exactly how you want it. This unique feature sets Basic Invite apart from other online stationery companies.
  • Customized Printed Samples: Basic Invite allows you to order a customized printed sample of your actual invitation before you place your final order. This way, you can see the paper quality, how it will print, and ensure that the card is perfect before sending it to your family and friends.
  • Wide Range of Envelope Colors: With over 40 different envelope colors to choose from, you can make your envelope match the invitation. All envelopes are “peel and seal” so they can be closed quickly and securely. This year, I upgraded to the “Desert Shimmer” envelope to make our mail truly stand out!
  • Address-Capturing Service: Basic Invite offers an address-capturing service that allows you to share a link on social media to request your friends and family’s addresses. These addresses are stored in your account and can be selected during the design process. Basic Invite even offers recipient address printing at no cost on all card orders. For an additional fee, they will even send your cards for you.

Foil Cards: Available in gold, silver, and rose gold, you can choose between flat or raised foil on all of Basic Invite’s foil designs. This year we decided to get gold-raised foil on our Christmas card. It adds a touch of elegance and beauty.

[Our Christmas Card for 2024 made on Basic Invite, Photographed by Jillian Spencer Studios]

Basic Invite makes it so easy to design cards and envelopes and add addresses. I love all the different templates and options. Creating cards shouldn’t be difficult, and I appreciate their website is user-friendly.

Tell me in the comments – have you ordered your Christmas cards yet? Do you need to order New Year’s Eve party invitations?

What do you think of our Christmas card? We were blessed to have Jillian of Jillian Spencer Studios in Roxbury, NJ capture our family this year. Support this local New Jersey mom by visiting her website, Instagram, and Facebook.

Then, once you get your photos from Jillian, be sure to visit Basic Invite here and check out their social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and X.

Use code HOLI30 for 30% off your Basic Invite cards!