Today was one of our family’s few vacation days this year and we LOVED it. We had a chance to go to the Blogger Beach Bash in Avalon in front of the Golden Inn thanks in large part to Joey Fortman’s hard work and quite a few generous sponsors.
We did not stay at the Golden Inn this year but wish we could have and heard such great things from those who did stay. We were greeted with a smile by the courteous doorman and directed where to go by the front desk. Registering for the event was a breeze and we were given beach tags, swag bags with information on the sponsors, “You Can Dig It Sand Tools” from Sandman Matt and the Sand Masters, Text bands from Hallmark, and Boogie Wipes.
The staff at Golden Inn had prepared and laid out a beautiful continental breakfast with bagels, pastries, fruit, juice, and coffee. Denise from The Painted Home , one of the sponsors and a fellow Philly Social Media Mom, decorated the tables. Let me tell you, this lady has a creative eye and can work her magic with simple items you can find in your cabinets or a thrift store. Her business card intrigued me even more because one of the words that made it on her card is TRASHPICKER. Lady, you are my friend.
Next we hit the beach. It was gorgeous today but one of those “no matter how much sunscreen you slather on you will burn” days. That part isn’t so fun. I tried, really, I did, but it was a lost cause. My poor light skinned boys and I burned. My daughter, as usual, just tanned a little more. Once we got to the beach there was no missing the main attraction. Sandman Matt was hard at work.
I have no idea how many hours it took but his masterpieces were (are) gorgeous. Even better, he taught us all how to MAKE OUR OWN. My 9 year old was hanging on to every word. He can’t wait to try it out for himself with our “You Can Dig It Sand Tool Kit”, complements of Sandman Matt. Turreted castles with winding stair steps and brick wall detailing fit for any princess (or prince). I can’t wait to see my son’s masterpieces in the future.
Lunch was provided in part by Honest Tea (check out my kids’ review) and Pop Chips. I love Honest Tea and the Chile Lime Popchips were so good – the best way to jazz up a hotdog for lunch is with some fancy and yummy sides. Cupcakes were courtesy of Truly Custom Cakery. Oops! I ate mine before I could get a picture.
We hung out by the pool for awhile but a tired mama and tired kids made going home early just a bit easier.
Big thanks for such a great day goes to:
Joey Fortman – amazing woman and a real mom
Jordan Schneider Financial – financial planner from kid to retirement
Truly Custom Cakery – best cupcakes!
The Painted Home – my kind of lady. Inspires me to think outside the box and know that even my budget can make magic happen.
Suddenly Safe & Secure Systems – innovative alarms that help keep children safer, especially love the alarm for car seats!
SandMasters – Thank you, SandMan Matt.
Bai Drinks – so many good flavors but the peach is my favorite. Best of all I can actually drink this caffeinated drink without getting jittery or sick.
Visit AC – Can’t wait until the air show in AC on 8/17!
Hallmark – Text bands + my kids = need I say more?
Honest Tea – lightly sweetened, highly refreshing
Pop Chips – Pop another one? So addicting!
Boogie Wipes – easy to carry, easy to use.
And lastly, to my handsome chauffeur for the day – my husband.
UPDATE: I just heard that I have a chance to win a girlfriend’s weekend getaway valued at $1,000. Um, yes please!! Would love a chance to go back to Avalon.
Disclosure: I received free product for this event but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sounds like a great time! Good family memories definitely. Heather and Davide – you are awesome!