Our 4th Trip to Woodloch: Why This Award-Winning Family Resort Will Always Be Our Happy Place

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This is a sponsored post. All opinions within are my own.

If you’ve been following Realm of Vibes for a while, you know that Woodloch Resort in Hawley, PA is one of our all-time favorite family vacation destinations. We’ve visited four times now, and every time brings new experiences and entertainment. Our most recent trip was packed with activities, relaxation, amazing food, and the kind of family memories we’ll be talking about for years.

For this stay, we checked into the Springbrook One Bedroom Suite, which is perfect for families needing extra space, easy access to activities, and a comfortable home base. It’s become our go-to room category, and if you’re planning a Woodloch trip with kids, consider this your sign.

Family Activities at Woodloch: Something for Everyone

One of the reasons we keep coming back is the huge list of family-friendly activities Woodloch offers. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a full week, you’ll never run out of things to do.

Pro tip: bring a highlighter for the daily activity sheet to prioritize what activities are important for your family

On this trip, our family enjoyed:

  • Jewelry making
  • Painting and arts & crafts
  • Storytime and reading
  • Marshmallow roasting (a must!)
  • Bumper cars — twice, because the kids insisted 😂
  • Indoor pool, hot tubs & splash area (we spent 5 hours here on Saturday!)
  • Lakeside walks
  • Mini golf
  • Outdoor and indoor playgrounds
  • Teaching the kids bocce ball
  • And yes… Mom and Dad even snuck in sauna time 🙌

If you’re looking for a Poconos family resort with nonstop activities, Woodloch is genuinely unmatched.

The Iconic Woodloch Horse Races 🐴

A highlight of this trip? The Woodloch horse races, which are a longtime resort tradition. You “bet” on wooden horses, cheer with your table, and get way more competitive than you’d expect. It quickly became a new family favorite — fun, silly, nostalgic, and uniquely Woodloch. Emilia and Nicholas loved shouting their horses number and listening to Scooter call out the dice numbers. Although we didn’t win, we had a really fun night out and the kids were thrilled to be out past bedtime.

Dining at Woodloch: Don’t Skip Dessert

Meals are included at Woodloch. Every meal is delicious, comforting, and kid approved. I always love the delicious salads, seasonal soups, homemade breads, and entrees that I wouldn’t typically make at home (i.e. pork shank). The kid’s menu is always available, and you can order your meals to go, like we did for lunch on Saturday. Eating poolside is a vibe! If you’re planning a visit, here are two must-dos:

✔️ Order the Mud Pie for dessert (even if it is not featured, they always have it!)
✔️ Order baked goods to bring home

We went home with cookies, blueberry bread, and crumb cake. Zero regrets.

If you love all-inclusive family resorts with great food, this is your place.

Why Woodloch Continues to Be Our Happy Place

Woodloch has earned countless awards for a reason. The staff, the activities, the dining, the traditions — everything is designed to help families relax, reconnect, and actually enjoy time together.

From the giggles on the bumper cars to the concentration during crafts, the peaceful moments by the lake, and the wild energy in the indoor playground… every moment feels special.

For us, Woodloch is our happy place, and it continues to deliver unforgettable family getaways year after year.

Planning Your Family Trip to Woodloch?

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive family resort in the Poconos, a place where everything is taken care of and memories practically make themselves, Woodloch is it.

👉 Ready to plan your own Woodloch getaway? Book here using code VIBES25 (applicable stays only) to get 10% off your stay! Drop a comment or send me a message — I’m happy to help you choose the best room, best time to visit, and top activities for your family!

Be sure to check out our Ambassador page and visit Woodloch on Instagram!

The True Gifts of Christmas: Rediscovering the Meaning Behind Our Favorite Traditions

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Every December, our family pulls out the boxes of ornaments, the tangled lights, and the cocoa mugs that only appear once a year. It’s joyful and chaotic, a mix of glitter, cookies, and carols, but sometimes, in the rush to make everything magical, I forget why we do it all in the first place.

This year, I wanted to slow things down and help Emilia and Nicholas connect with the meaning behind our Christmas traditions. That’s when I received a new book published by Loyola Press: The True Gifts of Christmas: Unwrapping the Meaning Behind Our Most Cherished Traditions by Megan Alexander.

A Book That Brings Christmas Traditions to Life

In The True Gifts of Christmas, author Megan Alexander takes 25 of our most beloved holiday symbols such as candy canes, stockings, wreaths, Christmas trees, and Santa Claus, and unwraps the stories and symbolism behind each one.

Each chapter explores a single tradition and its deeper purpose, showing how these customs reflect love, generosity, hope, and faith. What I love most is that the book doesn’t feel like a history lesson. It feels like a cozy conversation. You can easily read one story each night with your family leading up to Christmas, making it a gentle and reflective countdown to the big day.

Emilia especially loved learning that the candy cane’s shape and colors have special meanings, while Nicholas was thrilled to “hunt” for candy canes around the house afterward. Every chapter gives you a simple way to bring the message to life, whether it’s crafting, baking, or performing a small act of kindness.

Why This Book Belongs in Every Family’s Holiday Season

The True Gifts of Christmas is a beautiful reset from the holiday rush. Between shopping lists, parties, and school events, it’s easy to feel like the season races by, but this book helps families pause, even for just 10 minutes, to focus on connection over consumption. The writing is warm and accessible, making it easy to adapt for all ages. Emilia can understand the reflections, while Nicholas enjoys the hands-on activities that follow.

How We’re Bringing It to Life

Here’s a glimpse of our upcoming holiday lineup inspired by The True Gifts of Christmas:

🎄 The Christmas Tree – We’ll decorate while talking about how the evergreen reminds us of the everlasting love of God. Emilia will share one “gift” she wants to give that isn’t wrapped, like kindness or patience.

🍬 Candy Canes – We’ll do a candy cane scavenger hunt for Nicholas and end with cocoa while reading the story behind its red and white stripes.

🎁 Stockings and Giving – Each of us will pick a person to surprise with a small act of giving, such as a note, a treat, or a handmade craft.

🌟 Nativity Scene – On Christmas Eve, we’ll reflect on what the true gifts of Christmas have been for our family this year.

🎅 Advent Calendars – I got the kids this Magna-Tiles Advent Calendar for a fun Christmas countdown.

The True Gifts of Christmas isn’t just a great addition to your family bookshelf. It’s a meaningful gift for teachers, grandparents, or friends who love the season but crave something deeper than glitter and wrapping paper.

Closing Thoughts

If you’ve ever wished Christmas could feel just a little slower and a little more intentional, The True Gifts of Christmas is the perfect place to start. It’s not about doing more; it’s about remembering why we celebrate in the first place.

This year, our family is choosing to unwrap not just the presents under the tree, but the true gifts that have been there all along: love, gratitude, and togetherness.

What holiday tradition holds the most meaning in your home?
Tell me in the comments or tag @realmofvibes on Instagram. I’d love to hear your stories and see how your family celebrates the true gifts of Christmas.

Be sure to check out Megan Alexander and Loyola Press on Instagram!

Inside the Grand Reopening of ShopRite Belleville – A LoCurcio Family Market

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October 19, 2025 marked an exciting milestone for Belleville and the surrounding communities: the grand re-opening of ShopRite of Belleville, which is a part of the LoCurcio Markets family. From the first gleaming shelf to the aroma of fresh-baked goods, this isn’t just a supermarket relaunch, it’s a celebration of community, connection, and the kind of everyday experience that turns grocery shopping into something special.

The Legacy Behind the Name

The LoCurcio family has been a name local shoppers trust. Their roots in New Jersey grocery stretch decades, and their stewardship of community markets reflects a personal touch you don’t always see in big box chains. In Nutley, for instance, their ShopRite location (at 437 Franklin Avenue) has become somewhat of a local gem being praised for its fresh produce, vibrant specialty departments, and even live pizza-oven action. You can read my blog on our experience at the LoCurcio Markets ShopRite of Nutley location here.

That same dedication and attention to detail are now featured in Belleville, and it’s worth noting this is not just a takeover of shelves, it’s an infusion of a family-driven ethos into an important local hub.

Our Experience at the Grand Re-Opening

Here’s a preview of what shoppers can look forward to — and what we had the pleasure of experiencing — at the ShopRite of Belleville:

✨ Stunning produce & cheese displays
Expect freshness front and center with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and an expanded specialty cheese selection (featuring both local and international favorites). We sampled the Thumann’s pastrami and ended up buying a whole pound — the kids absolutely loved it! Dietz & Watson also had a great spread of artisan cheeses and premium meats. Jason devoured the buffalo chicken sandwiches and charcuterie cups. I adore when stores offer samples; it’s the best way for my kids to discover new favorite foods.

🍕 Live pizza, made to order
Watching a chef toss dough and bake a pie in minutes is not just fun… it’s a delicious reason to linger (and order more). The kids keep asking, “Mom, when are we going back to the supermarket with the delicious pizza?” We even saw guests ordering pumpkin pizza on our way out!

🎂 The expansive bakery
The kids loved the cake pops and were mesmerized by the beautifully decorated Halloween cakes which were spooky, colorful, and totally creative! Nick got the chocolate cake pop while Emilia chose a strawberry cake pop. I got a bite of each and boy, they were very tasty!

🍪 Seasonal décor & products
We stocked up on festive finds like holiday creamers, cookies, and LoCurcio sprinkles to get in the spirit of the season.

🥗 Prepared foods & ready-to-go meals
Perfect for busy families and professionals, the new store features a robust prepared foods section with salads, empanadas, grilled entrées, sandwiches, a hot bar, and a cold bar. Jason grabbed a sandwich while I opted for a salad to enjoy at home, both delicious!

🌼 A community-first atmosphere
From the floral and plant section to kid-friendly touches like the toy aisle and locally sourced products, the new Belleville ShopRite feels personal and welcoming, more than just a grocery trip, it’s a place to explore.

💰 Competitive pricing + value
The LoCurcio family continues their tradition of pairing specialty appeal with everyday affordability, so shoppers never have to choose between quality and savings.

The Details of LoCurcio Family Markets — Belleville

Address: 726 Washington Avenue, Belleville, NJ 07109
Instagram: @locurciomarkets
Facebook: LoCurcio Markets
Website: Their ShopRite.com profile highlights the LoCurcio family’s four-generation legacy, celebrating their deep roots in the community and commitment to making every shopping experience fresh, local, and family-focused.

Join the Celebration

If you stop by, take your time to explore, grab a slice, and share your finds — maybe it’s a gooey cheese pull, a delicious cake pop, a local product, or your favorite aisle setup… and don’t forget to tag #ShopRiteBellevilleReopening and #LoCurcioMarkets when you post on Instagram and Facebook!

Have you visited any of the LoCurcio Markets locations? (Belleville, Nutley, or Kearny)

Let me know in the comments!

Exploring How a Psychic Reading Can Bring Comfort and Closure After the Loss of Our Beloved Rescue Dog, Bailey

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It’s hard to believe it’s been nearly two years since we said goodbye to our beloved rescue dog, Bailey. She wasn’t just a pet; she was my first dog, my confidant, my protector, and my constant companion. Bailey’s energy was endless; she helped me train for a half-marathon, and she had a way of welcoming every rescue dog we fostered into our home, showing them the ropes of a good life. When our children arrived, Bailey instantly became a loyal friend to them, showering them with kisses and love every single day.

Bailey’s final months were incredibly difficult. She began to limp, and after visiting a specialist, we learned she may have had cancer and could have required an amputation, chemotherapy, or other aggressive treatments that would have only bought her about a year of extra time. Jason and I made the heart-wrenching decision to let her live her remaining days in peace, even as we carried her up and down the stairs and managed her pain with multiple medications. On October 6, 2023, after one last walk around the backyard, we laid her to rest and let her go be with God.

Life without Bailey has been emptier than I could have imagined. Adding to the grief, when I retrieved her ashes, I discovered another dog’s paperwork at the bottom of the cremation box, leaving me with lingering doubts and a heavy heart. We do have a beautiful memorial to Bailey in our home, where we pray, talk, and remember her. Emilia often sits there telling Bailey how much she misses her. But as the second anniversary of Bailey’s passing approached, I realized I hadn’t felt her presence as much lately. I used to hear her walk down the hallway. I used to see her in my mind’s eye. I used to hear her bark at the delivery driver’s. I wanted reassurance. Was she okay? Was she pain-free? Did she forget about us? 

I scheduled a California Psychics phone reading with Cain, extension 7683, and spent 22 minutes speaking with him. From the very beginning, Cain was calm, genuine, and honest. I asked him if Bailey was okay, and he shared that she is with an older couple, potentially great-grandparents, who are animal lovers and caring for her. Bailey communicated that she had pulled back from visiting because she felt my sadness and didn’t want to cause me more pain. Cain reassured me that this was natural and that I would feel her presence around the holidays. We used to celebrate Halloween together with costumes and trick-or-treating, and Christmas with fancy collars and pictures with Santa. He told me that when I feel her visit, to try to remain strong, as she picks up on my energy and doesn’t want to see me upset. 

Cain even described details from our home, telling me Bailey comes to our bedroom on the right side, just like she used to when she would lick my right hand as I lay in bed. He explained her decline was irreversible, related to her brain and stomach, and that even if we had tried more aggressive treatments, it would not have helped. Importantly, he reassured me that I shouldn’t feel guilty about any decisions we made; we gave Bailey a life full of love and care.

One of the most comforting revelations was regarding Bailey’s ashes. Cain told me they truly were hers, which lifted a tremendous weight I’d carried for two years. Talking to Cain allowed me to process my grief, feel comforted, and find closure, especially as her second anniversary approached. His compassionate guidance reminded me that Bailey is at peace, being cared for, and waiting for me.

If you’ve ever lost a beloved pet and have questions about their well-being in the afterlife, or simply need comfort, I highly recommend speaking with Cain at California Psychics, extension 7683. The insight, clarity, and reassurance I received from him have been invaluable, helping me honor Bailey’s memory while finding peace in my grief. 

Bailey may have only been with us for nine years, but her impact on our lives was immeasurable. I will forever cherish the love, joy, and lessons she brought into our home, and thanks to California Psychics Advisor Cain, (ext. 7683), I now carry her memory with a sense of comfort and connection that I never thought possible after such a profound loss.

To further understand the signs and symbols that may indicate your pet’s presence in the afterlife, you might find this insightful blog post helpful as well: Communicating With a Pet In the Afterlife

Have you ever had a psychic reading? Let me know in the comments.

Family Fun Weekend at Roscoe Campsite Park, Roscoe, New York

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Fall in the Catskills is pure magic—and this year, our family found the perfect way to soak it all in with a Family Fun Weekend at Roscoe Campsite Park. Jason and I have been to Roscoe before and usually stay at the River House at Trout Town Farms, just down the road. But this trip was extra special: it was our first time bringing Emilia (7), Nicholas (3), and our 11-year-old rescue pup, Gino, for a true camping adventure. Spoiler alert: everyone had the best time.

Our Luxury Tent Stay

Forget what you know about “roughing it.” Our luxury tent at Roscoe Campsite Park felt more like a boutique cabin in the woods. With a king-size bed for us and bunk beds for the kids, there was plenty of space for the four of us to spread out. The kids thought the bunks were the coolest thing ever, while Jason and I loved sinking into the king bed after busy days of exploring.

The tent came with a full bathroom (yes, a clawfoot tub in the woods!) and a shower, which made things so easy with kids. Outside, we had a picnic table, a grill under a gazebo, and even a cozy egg chair on the patio where we enjoyed slow breakfasts and lunches together. At night, the space transformed into our own little sanctuary under the stars.

Of course, no trip to Roscoe is complete without a stop at Grizzly Bagels in downtown Roscoe. We always recommend their famous Jalapeño Cheddar bagel with scallion cream cheese, lox, tomato, and capers—it’s our go-to breakfast every single visit. The kids love the cinnamon raisin bagels with cream cheese. Fresh, flavorful, and the perfect fuel for a day of family adventures in the Catskills.

Another tradition whenever we’re in town is stopping by Roscoe Beer Co. to grab a few of their locally brewed favorites. Jason and I especially love the Streamside Pilsner—crisp, refreshing, and the perfect pairing with a classic campfire hot dog fresh off the grill. There’s just something about sipping a cold local beer under the stars while the kids run around that makes camping feel complete.

First Night Magic ✨

The moment we arrived, the weekend kicked off with one of my favorite camping traditions: roasting s’mores around the fire. Emilia and Nicholas were in heaven toasting marshmallows, sticky fingers and all. As the sun set, the whole campsite gathered to watch Hocus Pocus on the big screen—pure Halloween season vibes. It was the perfect way to start our getaway.

Farm Fun at Trout Town Farms 🐐🐓🦙

On Saturday, we joined the farm tour at Trout Town Farms, and it quickly became one of the kids’ favorite activities. They got to feed alpacas and goats, pet Gloria, the resident turkey, collect fresh eggs from the chicken coop, and even enjoyed a honey tasting. Their faces lit up as they learned where food comes from—Nicholas proudly carried his egg like it was gold, while Emilia loved feeding the alpacas.

During the tour, we also got to peek at the new Mountain Pool Trout Loft property, another unique place to stay in Roscoe. Jason and I immediately added it to our list for a future trip—it’s such a cool option for anyone who wants a mix of comfort and nature.

Pumpkins, Play, and Pure Joy 🎃

Later that day, we went pumpkin picking at Trout Town Farms, and the kids carefully picked out “the perfect ones.” Back at Roscoe Campsite Park, they decorated and carved their pumpkins during Wine & Cheese Night, while Jason and I enjoyed local wines, cheeses, and a live band. The kids danced their hearts out to the music, did arts and crafts, wore glow bracelets, and even got goodie bags filled with nostalgic toys like spinners and candies. Seeing their joy was everything.

Outdoor Adventures 🚴‍♀️🏀🐕

One of the best parts about staying at Roscoe Campsite Park is that there’s something for everyone. We spent time walking along the riverbanks, skipping rocks, and splashing in the water. Being in nature was such a reset for all of us—it really does feel good for the soul.

The kids also got plenty of time to run free. Emilia and Nicholas loved the playground, raced each other down the slides, and made new friends. We all shot hoops at the basketball court, and Gino had the time of his life exploring the dog park—his first official camping trip, and he was so happy.

We even learned how to press apples into cider. Emilia cranked the press with all her might while Nicholas cheered her on, and together they made apple cider that tasted even sweeter because they worked for it. Those little moments are what make family trips so special.

Why We Loved This Trip ❤️

Looking back, this trip was more than just a weekend getaway. It was about watching Emilia and Nicholas live their best lives—running, playing, laughing, and experiencing new things. It was about Jason and I slowing down, unplugging, and enjoying the simple joys of being together as a family. And it was about Gino finally joining us for a trip he could enjoy too in his golden years.

Plan Your Family Camping Trip in the Catskills 🏕️

If you’re looking for family camping in the Catskills that combines the beauty of nature with the comfort of home, Roscoe Campsite Park is the place. Whether you’re in a luxury tent like us, an RV, cabin, or another rental, you’ll find endless ways to make memories.

👉 Book your stay at RoscoeCampsite.com. Don’t forget to use code REALMOFVIBES15 to save 15% off your stay!

Trust me—you’ll want this experience too.

See my carousel and highlight reel on Instagram for a detailed look into our trip. Be sure to visit Roscoe Campsite Park and Trout Town Farms on Instagram, too.

Below is a Pin for you to save to your travel board.