Curated List of Shows To Watch on Netflix While on Extended Lockdown

I have been stuck at home like you. And one of the things I ended up doing a lot of, which will be obvious in a minute, is scour my Roku player for shows to watch, either on Netflix or Prime Video. These, among other entertainment apps I have on the player to save me from pulling my hair out. But before you judge me, this is not all I do each day! However, I'll be honest. Me and my Roku? We're best buds now.

And you're welcome! I've compiled list of shows which I think you'll find worth watching because, yes, we're in this together. I gotcha! Just one piece of warning though, some of these shows says, "your discretion advised". You know the drill. You must first double-check the show before you cozy up on that couch with your kids. If not, all consequence is your fault. No kids? Then, lucky you. Grab the popcorn and start binge-watching! Stat.

Entertainment Hotlist on Netflix:
Curated for your binging pleasure. Please note. Some are subtitled or dubbed.

Surviving the Plague with a Dose of Common Sense and a Grain of Creativity

Scene outside of Costco implementing social distancing due to Covid19 / photo by MaricrisG

So, we're heading into our 3rd week of "house arrest" - don't it feel like that to you? - well, me too. I'm an introvert and shouldn't be bothered with self-isolation, but at this point even an introvert out there I'm pretty sure is already feeling claustrophobic. Have you become best friends with your pantry? Got engaged with your couch? Or got married to your kitchen? Ok, I'm not here to judge. But please, go easy on the muffins! That's me yelling at you...and at myself. You know someone's got to because my weighing scale obviously won't.

Anyway, no denying. This Covid-19 pandemic is badass! And if you're not freaking out now, you're probably from outer space. You extroverts must be getting the worst brunt of it. Has it driven you up the wall yet? Poor thing. I feel your pain. At home with kids? I double, triple, feel your pain. I'll drink more Margarita in your behalf and eat more muffins, because I can. What else is there to do, right? We're in this together.

It's no joke though that we literally have a deadly executioner prowling the streets and after our pretty heads. And yet some people pretend like there's none of that at all. What's wrong with these idjits? They're like, "I'm having none of that nonsense. I'll go lick products at the store." Or, "I'll go hold a large Sunday service." If only common sense was a medicine. A lot of people out there apparently, need to take one, stat.

So, what's helping you? Me. I watch a lot of shows on my Roku. I run. I walk. I eat. I forget to eat. I sometimes go around in circles - but only because I dance in my living room and don't have enough space. I sneeze - a lot. I itch a lot - my eyes, silly. Thanks Pollen. But I also did some other things that you can also do. Check below:

[ Entertainment Review ] OVO - Cirque Du Soleil : Delightfully Mesmerizing

Juggling human insects, anyone? / Photo courtesy of Cirque Du Soleil

As we entered the arena, right there in the middle of the stage, a huge, no, gigantic, egg sits silently. It does nothing, yet its stillness commands an imposing presence. An air of control that immediately captures your attention and gnaws at your curiosity. Then I saw insects...and my skin crawled. 

[ Contributor Review ] Cirque Du Soleil Corteo: Engaging, Mysterious, Fun

Editors Note: We received a media invite to preview the show in Charlotte NC. Our Contributor Dale shares his personal experience of the entertainment. Check his story below. 

Imagine, if you will, you’re laying in bed. You feel the tug of slumber pulling at you and you begin to fall into the Sandman’s warm embrace. Your dream begins with you lying in bed with a stream of people, your friends and family, walking towards you wailing and sobbing. One by one they approach you, touching your hand, kissing your forehead, and whispering tearful farewells.

It’s then you realize you’re dead. But you’re dreaming. Right?

And that’s how Cirque du Soleil’s Corteo begins...

Unique Handmade Collectible Gifts at Carowinds Winterfest Artisan Alley

After 12 years, Winterfest finally made its magical winter wonderland way back to Carowinds to offer fun and enchantment to each and everyone. An attraction that have been much-anticipated by those who experienced it in 2005, like me - its first and last year. Now the great thing about this year's Winterfest is that it's bigger, it's brighter and it offers more fun options for the family - including an Artisan Alley featuring unique handmade items from local and small business owner designers!

Fun and shopping rolled into one
What more can you ask for? Fun at the park and shopping! These unique items are a great buy even if you're not looking for something special for holiday gifts. Some of them are just worth having. The Artisans will be there until December 30th so, check them out and show them love and support by purchasing an item or two!

5 Myths We Busted At Scarowinds

In the Carolinas, Scarowinds is the ultimate Halloween fun destination where every year, people flock to the park to partake in its yearly transformation from a theme park to a "scream park". However, that wasn't the case for me and my family. For a little scream-worthy confession, I will tell you that for years, we avoided it like a plague - this I'm totally blaming the "chickens" for! Yes, you know, them chickens. Those that instill their fear on you. I bet you know a few of them too.

Now before you go all Judge-y, judge-y with us and the level of our scare meter, you should know that we do love scary schtuffs too. A lot. But, back then, we also have a valid reason for not going, AKA my child was too young and we were afraid there were nothing fun for us there at all. Talk about being misinformed! Then there's the, we kinda, sorta, you know, lost track and kept missing it every year... But, not this year! - oh boy! We missed out on a lot...darn chickens! 

How to Make the Most of Your Vacation by Staying In a Mountain Cabin

Sparkling waters of Lake Lure

If there is one thing interesting that we learned this year about vacation travel it's that, travelers are greatly influenced by the weather. It predetermines where they go, geographically. A factor we utilized in deciding where we should go for our mini-Summer vacation destination this year - away from where the swarm goes... the mountains!

So while the swarm heads to the coast, we headed up to meet the mountain fairies!

Welcome Summer with a Huge Splash at Carowinds Carolina Harbor Water Park

Carolina Harbor Water park officially opened it's gates to water-loving Carolinians today. A refreshing treat to welcome the arrival of Summer and its sometimes searing southern heat. The park comes to life to help you quench the heat - or drench it - whichever fits, even before it's officially Summer! So, you can just say "Summer, bring it on!"  - Carowind's got you covered.

Carowinds Taste of the Carolinas Makes A Flavorful Comeback

I had the opportunity to experience and savor the tasteful offerings of Taste of the Carolinas at Carowinds right on its opening weekend, and this year, it's a little more special...

Experience the Thrill of the Past at Carowinds New County Fair

Carowinds County Fair officially opened on March 25 of this year, with a promise that it will take you back in time to experience the good 'ol rides that brought tons of fun and excitement for the whole family in the olden county fairs of the past. My family and I had the opportunity to visit Carowinds on Easter weekend and witnessed the 4 classic rides of the newest attraction of the park in action.

Be prepared to have fun.

A Spine-Tingling Tour of Lizzie Borden's Historic House of Murders

"The thrill of adventure creeps into the very core of your soul by the very notion of finding yourself exploring the inner sanctum of one of America's haunted houses."

Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of "The Great Pumpkin" At Carowinds Great Pumpkin Fest - On Us!

It's hard to believe that October is here. But that just means Fall has come. It also means it's the season for the Great Pumpkin Fest at Carowinds!

This year marks the 50th Anniversary celebration of "It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown", and Carowinds is celebrating in with their ultimate annual fall festival - The Great Pumpkin Fest! Think super-Halloween-goodness in one fun place.

With that, we want you to be a part of this family-friendly daytime event celebrations that includes Halloween-themed live shows, a pumpkin patch, a hay bale maze, trick-or-treating, a petting zoo and so much more! Your favorite rides will be open during the day, including the award-winning Planet Snoopy kids' area as well.  All this - ON US! 

Our Maiden Voyage with Niagara Fall's Maid of the Mist

American Falls/Niagara Falls 

Niagara Falls is one of my favorite travel destinations. It's an attraction that changes with the season. It takes on a multi-faceted appearance especially during the winter. In spite of its sheer size and raging power, the falls emanates a sense of calming effect that I can't get enough of. And the rushing water exploding on the rocks at the bottom of the falls creating those continuous thick blanket of mist certainly adds to the mystique of these iconic wonder of nature.

After going to this park for years, I decided that this year, it was time for us to get up close and personal with the falls. Time to be a tourist. Not just a "passing by" visitor anymore...

Winterfest and County Fair Returns to Carowinds for a Jam Packed Fun for the Whole Family in 2017

In all the years my family and I have been going to Carowinds, I can pretty much say that we have seen how the park evolved through the years, from when it was still owned by Paramount, to that time the park got an entire makeover, character switches, attraction name changes and transformations, when it was acquired by Cedar Fair. During those years, we had favorite attractions that didn't make the cut during the changes. One of them is Winterfest.

Unfortunately, WinterFest lasted only one season in 2005 under Paramounts flagship. The next year, in 2006, Cedar Fair acquired the park. Now Carowinds is doing a time rewind and will be bringing back not just Winterfest but also County fair! And I'm beyond excited!

Escape The Intense Heat All Summer Long at Carowind's New Carolina Harbor Waterpark

Summer and Summer heat is upon us - and with a vengeance! It's so hot out there, it's enough to cook a pizza in the open heat! Yes, pizza. Not just eggs anymore. It's pizza! But, don't get caught under all these intense heat and melt - literally. Hiding in the comfort of your air conditioned home is not a very good Summer-long option either. Not with the kids home for the Summer and the inevitable threat of cabin fever - you've got to be kidding yourself if you opt to endure these! - You'll go nuts! Count on it.

But you don't have to. There is no need to. Here's a great option to get your family and your Summer vacation off to a great start, or Summer-long, whichever applies to you. All you need to do is go to Carowind's and take advantage of their new Carolina Harbor Waterpark. Your kids will thank you for it and so will yourself! Best of all, you won't be subjected to the nasty angst of FOMO.

Finding Dory Themed Party Kit and Recipes For Your Next Splashy Celebration

Baby Dory swam straight to our hearts and we can't get enough of her cuteness! In honor of her cuteness, here are some Finding Dory-themed party kit and recipes for you! Lucky you.

The BFG Dream Sweepstakes and Activity Sheets For You While You Wait

The BFG officially opens on July 1st but while you're waiting, here's a few sweet treat to start you and your little kiddos off.

Enter the BFG Dream Sweepstakes. All you need to do is share your dream. THAT simple. You'll win a trip for four to England and France! If I were you, I'd hurry and enter. Wait, I already did! - You can enter on Facebook or Twitter.

Sneak Peek on Disney's New Upcoming Movie: Moana

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ has another new feature film in their roster of new movies for the year, slated to open in November 23, 2016. The new movie “Moana”. It is about an adventurous teenager who, with help from demigod Maui, sails out on a daring mission to prove herself a master wayfinder and save her people. Watch the official trailer below to catch a glimpse at how exciting this movie is and one worth looking forward to!


More on Moana:

How To Create Lasting Memories With Your Multicultural Tweens At Disneyworld

Harambe Village Acrobats at Animal Kingdom

When our kids get older, it's a real game changer when you factor in travel and vacation destinations. This upset in balance is due to their changing interest and maturing view of what they consider fun that is also age-appropriate for them. Even the happiest place on earth can become a challenge for a tween who have become disconnected to the captivating magic that Disney possesses. Yes it can happen. And if you've been away long enough from all that magic and pixie dust - like what occurred to us-  then that by itself will hasten the process of a dying attraction to Walt's enchanting kingdom. Although I'm sure some of you will be disagreeing about now.

But my tween is not an isolated case. The only downside is, my tween's recent disenchantment may have caused a few fairies to die. Sorry Tinkerbell... However, not everything is a total loss. We did manage to re-invigorate my tween's love for Disney and renewed that attraction to a whole new level that, hopefully, may lasts her - her entire lifetime! Fingers crossed. This is how we did it... and how you can too - if you ever needed to. And if you have multicultural tweens, the better! These tips are specially made for you! They will make your experience at the happiest place on earth beyond happy - that's what I got rewarded with for doing these things anyway. It also gives your tween or tweens a whole different perspective of fun at Disneyworld - and hopefully, appreciate every single minute of being there with you!

Do You Have The Right Sunscreen? See The 22 Top-rated sunscreen lotions for babies and kids in 2016

Summer is almost here. The weather is heating up and gearing up for the Summer season. Summer equals Sunscreen. They go together like peas in a pod. My family and I are loyal fans of this much-needed necessity. We prefer the all-natural and organic versions, but there are also other products out there that are worth your money. Check the list to see if your favorite brand made the cut.