Alexandra : Editor
A Weekend of Spring Fair Fun!It’s a weekend of school fairs all about town! Grab the kiddos and head over to these great spring events. From St. Phil’s super fun day of rides and bounce houses, to Pennfield’s annual Sunday jam-packed with games and giggles, …
read more
Cocktails: Castle Hill’s Lip-Smacking Good CocktailsThis sun has me thinking of Summer. And I decided to re-post this archived post on summer’s cocktail picks from Castle Hill Inn. Ooh, that spectacular sprawling green lawn has me begging for a bit more warmth ... With today’s sun …
read more
Spotted: A Newport Crew Keeping Our Waters CleanA year ago I took notice to a new regatta sharing our harbor called The Atlantic Cup, a race solely dedicated to energy & ocean conservation. As a Newporter, I was immediately intrigued. Sailors were establishing an environmental cause behind …
read more
Spring Break!How can I write about family fun if I don’t take some time to enjoy my own family? Yep, we’re on spring break! Dog, child, beach, and family! See you next week when I return. Enjoy this sunshine savvy! ________________________________________________________________________________
read more
Out&About:Stroller Strides Party/Beach CleanWEEKEND FAMILY FUN. Earth Day is right around the corner, and I have some great local voices sharing how they’re making a difference to our island and for our kiddos. Don’t you just love that our babes’ generation will be …
read more
Spotted: Momprenueur Monica RodgersThere’s a mom in town starting a revelation, a revelation that uses social media and photography to empower women’s voices, feed their spirit, and reveal their deepest potential. I. Am. Hooked. Former Newporter and mama of two, Monica Rodgers, is …
read more
Cocktail Time: St-Germain SensationThis past Easter weekend still has me thinking of family, festivities...and cocktails. I first heard of this lip-smacking good libation from our savvy pals over at Newport Wine Cellar last summer, and it is still my favorite hostess cocktail. Not …
read more
Easter Egg Hunts in Newport, RIWhen I was little, my siblings and I would scour our backyard for the prized “Golden Egg”, on Easter Sunday, an old L’eggs pantyhose egg that my mother had painted gold and filled with five, one dollar bills. The lucky …
read more
Mondays w/Mom: Birthday Bucket ListsI turn old tomorrow, not ancient, but definitely a little wiser at the prime (number) age of thirty-seven. Birthdays are funny to me, ever since I can remember my birthday has caused me unnecessary anxiety, an odd quirk for a …
read more
I have this addiction to spotting trends. Seriously, if its colorful, new, pretty, or fascinating…I fall in love. Last summer, I became pretty obsessed with the shoe company TOMS, and its soulful mission. I had known of TOMS for quite …
read more
Create: DIY-The Perfect PinwheelsNothing shouts sunshine like a pinwheel. These sweet and colorful delights are a fun project to do with the kids. Afterwards, watch how the kids inspect each delicate paper wing, as they gleefully turn them in a circle (again and …
read more
Spring Classes: Creative StagesIt’s time to think outside the box for all those wiggles and giggles. We know you’ve got the sports set, so let’s focus on spring’s baby, toddler, and kid creative classes. I am big believer in the arts, creative expression, …
read more
Parties: A Little Artist’s BirthdayI love a good party, and when children and art are involved, I love it even more. Leslie Cathers, of Groovy Gator, threw one colorful birthday party for her little, aspiring artist pre-k peanut. This party was primed with creativity …
read more
Spotted! Newport Mom, Abby RoweHave you spotted Abby breezing by, with a jogging stroller in hand, and a league of moms happily trailing behind? I have, and I was eager to introduce you to this vibrant, kind Newporter, who humbly balances her time between …
read more
Mondays w/Mom: Oh, To Be VulnerableAs a parent, there is nothing worse than when you realize the lesson you’re teaching your child is a lesson you need a little refresher on yourself (cringe). Presently, I am working on encouraging my first grader to be confident, …
read more
Family Fun: 2012 Newport Winter FestivalIt’s here, school’s winter vacation and our local Newport Winter Festival. For all of us on “staycations”, don’t you fret, while our pals are off skiing or sunning (a tiny whimper just popped up from my throat) Newport is jam-packed with …
read more
Happy Valentine’s Day!I love any day that celebrates sharing sweet noted endearments with the ones we love. Whether my flowers come in the form of a FedEx delivery, or a handpicked palm full of sweets, or a blooming art bouquet tenderly drawn …
read more
DIY: Couture Parties’ Valentine’s OreosDouble stuffed Oreo-pops…yes, please! Thank goodness for our 401 party voice, Stephanie Frazier Grimm of Couture Parties, recently she launched the most stylish party ideas blog called Creating Couture Parties. I’m hooked. I nabbed this scrumptious idea for my son’s …
read more
Sisterly Tips On Being A StepmomMy baby sister got married this past Saturday, a black tie affair at the Plaza that would have had Eloise swinging from the chandelier…fantastic sibling time, no kids, and a load of champagne…heaven. My sister was the last of us …
read more
Seasonal Activities: Winter Family FunIt’s here…winter and snow, it took awhile this year, but we’re in full swing of our coastal winter. The upside is that undeniable feeling of delight you get as you watch the kiddos run outside into their first annual snowfall, …
read more
Spotted: Lisa Sarro Fitzpatrick, Co-Owner of miniWishHere at Connext, we love originality and cheer for style. So, on the heels of our recent giveaway I wanted you to meet new mama Lisa Sarro Fitzpatrick, one of the lovely owners of miniWish & Wish consignment. I met …
read more
Groovy Gator & Mini-Wish Giveaway: Winner!WE HAVE A WINNER! Congratulations to Danielle Ward! You were our lucky #22 of the drawl! I will contact you privately on how to claim your prize for the miniWISH & The Groovy Gator gift certificates. Thank you to all …
read more
Giveaway: Groovy Gator & miniWishCONTEST IS CLOSED. WINNER WAS DRAWN! Our final ’401′ New Year giveaway is for all those mamas who dream of the guilt free pleasure of buying something super cute for the kiddos without justifying the purchase…oh what heaven. And oh …
read more
Giveaway: Archbeauty Winner!ARCHBEAUTY’S LUCKY WINNER! We’ve got a winner!! Congratulations Kelly Gerson! You are the lucky winner #11. We will email you with all the information needed to collect your GC for Archbeauty makeup lesson. Send us a pretty pic after you …
read more
GIVEAWAY: Archbeauty Makeup LessonUPDATE: CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED! HOORAY WE HIT OUR NUMBERS…STAYED TUNED FOR ANOTHER ONE. -Winner will be announced on Monday, January 9th on the blog. Next giveaway to follow! Lucky number 24 How many friends have you referred to Connext? …
read more
Giveaways: RegulationsRegulations and Official Rules for our 2012 January Giveaway All Entries Agree To These Rules To Be A Valid Entree: All Internet access and usage charges are the responsibility of the entrant. If for any reason the Internet portion of …
read more
Plunge Into 2012My six year-old son, R., begged to participate in the Newport Polar Bear Plunge this New Year. After a shuffle of parenting texts back and forth between myself and my ex, it was decided R. was old enough to join …
read more
Meet Allison Schumann, Spa Director for Vanderbilt GraceI think there is very little that can compare to a day at the spa. In fact, I’d bet that every mom in town would love having two quiet hours to herself, lounging poolside in a robe, and sipping grown …
read more
We’ll See You in 2012!Connext is now officially on holiday through New Year’s Day. NYC beckons, friends & cocktails are waiting, and a little child is hopping about (literally) in anticipation for his holiday adventure with his mama. You should see this child’s local …
read more
Tallulah’s Pea Green Pesto PizzaKelly Ann and Jake Rojas, owners of Tallulah on Thames, passed along a lip-smacking good (and mighty healthy) recipe perfect for this month’s healthy Chef’s Choice. This little restaurant packs one mighty big punch, full of savory tastes in a …
read more
Seasonal Activities: Holiday Happenings!Tis’ the season of twinkle and wonder; ooh, how we love this festive time of year. Town will be buzzing with the blithe spirit of this magical season. Be sure to mark your calendars (or just keep checking ours) for …
read more
Spotted!: Meet Leslie CathersHave you ever heard of “Marvelous Mayhem”? It’s that brilliant combination of perpetual forward motion, wholehearted love, and gut busting laughter, leaving you smiling and excited all at the same time…Meet the Cathers family! Captivating middletown mama Leslie Cathers, owner …
read more
Mondays with Mom: A Gratitude Formula“Gratitude takes your breath away. You stop thinking and you connect to something more powerful than yourself. It’s such a profound moving experience that it comes from your heart.” This was my friend’s response to my a.m. phone call to …
read more
Seasonal Activities: Kids’ Winter RecreationSign’Em Up! The Winter 2012 (can you believe it?) sports/dance/afternoon fun registration is here. As our afternoons get darker, it’s a smart time to keep the kiddos energy up with a range of fun activities from art to swim…as dinner …
read more
Weekend’s 401: Halloween Fun In NewportWE TOTALLY DIG HALLOWEEN! Bought your candy and glow sticks yet? Its a jam-packed weekend for the kiddos full of giggles and treats. Savor this stage of childhood when they proudly wear their costumes daily (sometimes also to bed), and …
read more
Yummy Tummy: Halloween School SnackI have some time management issues...if it takes too much time then it’s an issue (impatience of a multi-tasker with a long task list). So when the holidays roll around, and it’s time to bring in a Halloween snack for …
read more
Seasonal Activities: Halloween Kid Fun In Newport, RIIt’s that time of year again …when all the little ghosts, witches, and superheroes come out to play! Here is our list, your go-to guide, of all the happy Halloween happenings for kids on Aquidneck Island. Mark down the dates …
read more
Spotted: The Be Green Consignment Sale in Newport, Rhode IslandIf you’re a new mama, or just put your third in pre-school, The Be Green Consignment Sale has what you’re looking for. This stylish and well-organized event feels more like a great day of bargain shopping rather than some underwhelming …
read more
Out & About: 10/14-10/16…This Weekend’s 401This Weekend’s Family 401 Fun Saturday Day: 1.)Harry Potter Day at Escobar’s Farm 1:00pm-4:00pm Prepare to be a-mazed at the little witches & warlocks party serving up all sorts of cornfield magic. Have the kiddos dress up, and be …
read more
Style Board: Newport Fall Fashion FindsAlex’s Note: We love Andrea’s picks! Keep up with all the local sales, deals, and styles over at Newportsylephile.com…She keeps us “in the know”. And never forget all these shops are a stone’s throw away! ___________________________________________________________________________
read more
Create: Cute & Inspiring Pumpkins Ideas1.) BHG 2.) BHG 3.) BHG 4.)Country Living 5.) Newport Connext 6.) Martha Stewart 7.) Parents 8.) Country Living Get inspired to try something new this season! Above are my top quick & easy (but adorable) picks for moms to do …
read more
Out&About: Harvest Fair at Norman Bird SanctuaryGuess what weekend it is?…You probably already know…It’s Harvest Fair weekend over at Norman Bird Sanctuary. I love this weekend! It’s like the first kick-off to autumn festivities, fun day Sundays, and all things fall. Ever since I moved here seven years ago, I …
read more
Spotted: Portsmouth Mom Nell MelansonMeet Portsmouth mom of two Nell Melanson. This multi-tasker is very a savvy mom. Toting around two of the cutest little tots you have ever seen, you’d never know that Nell is always balancing being a mom with her job as …
read more
Mondays With Mom: Is That A Costume?I’m not sure exactly when I became old, but I’m pretty sure it just happened yesterday after visiting our local Halloween store with my six-year old son. As my son, R., was busy fighting a dismantled hand with his newest …
read more
Out&About: 09/23-09/25-This Weekend’s Family 401Let the festivities begin! This weekend is jam-packed with festivals all geared for the kids! …And all only within a 10-mile radius (god bless saving on gas). Here’s the 401: St. Elizabeth’s, in Bristol, is hosting their annual town fair …
read more
Out&About: 09.16-09.18 This Weekend’s Family 401I am so excited (delighted even) to be writing a weekly Family 401 post over at our city’s new blog From Stem to Stern. I have to admit, it gave me a new boost of momentum that we all need …
read more
Go Play!: September Family FunWell, the fall is here-in terms of school, schedules, and new routines; but not in temperature. Nope, Mother Nature leaves us with the remembrance of summer with our September climate, and a breeze that beckons all families to get outside …
read more
We Couldn’t Resist: Kate Spade ShoesAah… Kate, it seems you’re back with a bang! Our first newsletter just went out (sign up on top left), and we felt like showing off some color. These shoes…oh, these shoes are sassy, bold, and girly. In fact, they …
read more
Out and About: Newport Labor Day WeekendHappy, Happy Labor Day Weekend! This is a little milestone for us at Newport Connext, when I say “Us” I mean me, you, and all the fantastic local voices that contribute their advice, local deals, and family musings. We have …
read more
Classes: Baby and Toddler Fall ClassesOh, those little munchkins… Their chubby cheeks, contagious giggles, and loads of new found energy! Time to sign mommy & baby up for some great fall activities that keep everyone social, and well rested for nap time. Here are our …
read more
Kid School: Aquidneck Island Bus InfoIn our household, school was supposed to start today (Tuesday)…but Hurricane Irene had different plans. Power is back on (thank goodness), and school now starts for some of our kiddos on Wednesday & Thursday…and the rest of the kiddos start …
read more
Out&About:08.26-08.28- Throw a Sunday Funday Irene party!It seems this weekend may be a wash. Sorry, I just couldn’t resist using that line. With Irene looming over our heads, our weekend’s Out & About suggestions are more like an ‘In & Intoxicated’ (wink). So it was time to …
read more
Seasonal Activities: List of Fall Sports For Kids On Aquidneck IslandWelcome back to the crazy beginning of the school year. Some kiddos begin next week! Others, begin the following (we’ll post on bus numbers next Monday). But right now, most of you are beginning to register your kiddos for sports. …
read more
Spotted!: Newport Mom and City Councilor Naomi NevillePlease meet Naomi Neville, your city councilor, a partner of a local architecture firm, wife, and proud mom of these two cuties above. With school starting soon, I thought this community advocate, and sensational architect, was the perfect mom to …
read more
Events: We’re Off On Holiday…oh, just for a week.hello savvy… we’re taking a little break, some R&R, a road trip! I was inspired to put up the “Be Back Later” sign after a recent visit to the Vet for our dog. It was here that my parenting alarm …
read more
Style Board: Summer Chic Style..and a bit’o glam.August’s Style Board is all about a certain look...sigh...one that involves a nanny, an adorable scooter, and this to-die for maxi dress, accompanied by a oh-so pretty cocktail! We’re setting a picture above of how we hope you all get …
read more
Mondays With Mom: Being You Is Under RatedMe, Myself & I the (humbly) real lessons of being true to oneself. My six-year-old son, R., is learning to read, something that I try to include in our daily routine with tons of gusto. So, when we read …
read more
Out&About:08/05-08/11-A weekend (and midweek) full of deals, relaxing & evening family fun.THIS WEEKEND & midWEEK’S FAMILY 401: Aah August, how we love your warmth and easy-going pace. It seems we want to chill with some quality family time this weekend & all next week. It’s the perfect time to take in …
read more
Out&About: 08.01.11-08.04.11-Great Family Concerts All Week Long!THIS WEEK’S FAMILY 401: Hello Savvies! We have a glorious month left of summer with the kids, and oh boy, does the fun go all week long! So, we decided share the love with our Out&About posts for the rest …
read more
This month’s MANversation is all about getting a single guy’s perspective on dating. Last month, the dads spoke on their favorite father’s day dates, this month the men are speaking about the dating scene for all our lovely single mom …
read more
THIS WEEKEND’S 401: This weekend we’re all about newpotFILM’s mini-fest. From the outdoor screenings, to the kid show, to a great GNO! It’s a film-tastic weekend! EVENING: Date Night! Please…oh, please…book a sitter, and hit the glorious green lawn at …
read more
Spotted!: Meet Newport Mom Kim KirbyPhoto Credit: Kim Fuller Photography Kim Kirby is one cool woman. I had asked my friend (another great mom), Nell, to recommend a savvy mom to spot in the boating community. Her enthusiastic answer was, “Kim Kirby!”. This stylish designer …
read more
Go Play!: Newport Farmers’ Markets…Oh, So (Green) Good!Farmers’ markets are just plain fun! Besides feeling like you have been transported to a different time, or country, a local market makes you feel a little more connected to what you’re cooking for your family, and the people growing …
read more
Be Happy. Be You.- Happy Monday, and Every Fun Day!Monday & Tuesday are vacation days for us (every girl needs a day off), so we wanted to post this brilliant picture taken by a local mom, and photographer, Beth Ludwig on her family vacation. I fell hard for this …
read more
OUT & ABOUT: 07.15-07.17 Black Ships, the Arts, Polo & Music in the ParkTHIS WEEKEND’S 401: Kid/Family activities from the Black Ships Festival, to Family Fun at Blithewold, to Tiverton’s Art Festival, to A Drum Festival… Oh my! OUR WEEKEND’S FUN SUGGESTIONS DAYTIME: Family Fun at Blithewold- The activities will include a live …
read more
Chef’s Choice: H2O’s Grilled Salmon with Corn RelishSummer has us thinking about the savory taste of seafood. Mmm…summer salmon. Newport’s chic restaurant, H2O, provided us with this fantastic recipe to make at home this weekend. We tried it out, and oh boy, is it simple and tasty! Match …
read more
Go Play!: Top 4 Family Fun Things To Do This SummerPhoto Credit: Maaike Bernstrom Photography Aquidneck Island is full of family fun! Come summer, the options are endless with all of our land and sea activities to keep a family busy. Most of the time, the beach beckons moms/families to …
read more
Meet Portsmouth native Krista Dooley. This high energy, loving mom of four, is always on the move! Literally, she’s moving with her four kids, and fun husband Lee, a few streets over in the middle of summer break. Krista and …
read more
Today is Angela Moore Giveaway!! Our friends over at Angela Moore offered one of their signature bracelets to one of our savvy readers. Then, we just got plain old giddy when we realized it was in coordinance with their 12th …
read more
Happy 4th of July from Newport Connext!Photo Credits Lft to Rt: Heidi Hope Photography, Connerton Photography, Heidi Hope Photography, Maaike Bernstrom Photography, Maaike Bernstrom Photography, Connerton Photography _______________________________________________________________________________
read more
Out&About: 07.01-07.04 Fireworks, Yachts, Gulls & Tennis!Photo Credit: Connerton Photography YOUR WEEKEND 401: It’s A Fire’crackin Weekend Of Fun! And we’re starting off with a bang! After this morning’s Angela Moore giveaway post, it’s time to spread some more love with a weekend full of family …
read more
Style Board: Beach Club CasualWednesday’s Style Board Is All About Summer Fun! Whether your sporting this look from playing with the kids at the beach, to jumping on a boat on the bay, we have you covered. Casual and chic…my two favorite words! 1.) …
read more
Expert Advice: Archbeauty’s Top Summer PicksArchbeauty’s skin extraordinaire, and savvy owner, has helped all her fellow 401 moms out by putting together a great little list of summer skin must haves. Isn’t it great having savvy moms in town to keep all of our skin …
read more
Mondays w/Mom: A Single ManeuverStrategizing Singlehood “How do I date?” I recently asked a friend, at our book club, that had been moved to the Clarke Cooke House (we gave up the books awhile back). “I don’t know, I’m married.” my friend shrugged. “Right. …
read more
Out&About: 06.24-06.26 Our Weekend SuggestionsTHIS WEEKEND’S 401: Rosecliff’s infamous Blue Garden is back this weekend only at the Newport Flower Show, a Jack Rogers trunk show hosted by Angela Moore, a St. Barnabas weekend carnival, and the flight of the Blue Angels. OUR WEEKEND …
read more
This weekend’s suggestions are pleasantly squished below this savory treat to bake for Dad below. These cookies scream “Beer For Dad!” (I call this man-flowers). In fact Amanda, the bewitching baking temptress over at Its My Party in Newport, recommends a beer aside …
read more
The thing I love most about “Spotting” moms is the variety of ages, stages, and interests of all the wonderful moms there are all around Aquidneck Island. Please meet Erin Sullivan, a young, utterly sweet, and gracious Newport mom. I …
read more
This Wednesday’s Style Board is all about DAD. Now, we were tempted to add the coffee mug, and tie (we found a killer Npt one from Vineyard Vines), but we are sticking to some great Father’s Day picks for all …
read more
Chef’s Choice: The Carnegie Abbey Club’s Summer Vegetable SaladClick here to download a printable recipe card. *Dressing attached to download. Oh, the savory delight of a summer salad! The Carnegie Abbey Club’s executive chef, Joe Melanson (really great guy), shared with us one of Carnegie’s most popular summer …
read more
Meet Newport Dads, friends, and local business owners, Mark Spring and Randy Schreiber. Mark Spring is one tall dad, who has great timing with his dry-wit delivery. This great dad juggles his time between running his noteworthy local B&B The …
read more
Go Play!: Local Pick Your Own Berry FarmsI do not have a green thumb. In fact, I am known for a garden that looks a little unkempt due my lack of weeding & watering (Er, yep). So, I revel summertime picks from local farmers’ markets and farms. There …
read more
Out & About: What to do…What to do…Talk about a week of sun & fun at the beach, we hope you all got the kids out and rolling around in that warm sand! This week has been way too busy, and has us shouting “Bring On The …
read more
WEDNESDAY’S Style Board: Bring On The Big Kids Camp Days! Sticking with this morning’s camp posting, we decided to show of the big kids-5-10yr old-style. 1. Looking mighty chic from Crewcuts. 2. Macaroni never looked so cute Crewcuts. 3. A …
read more
Here they come…it’s time! R (my active nut) has only one more week of school, and this mama is so not organized. Now, there are a slew of fantastic camps to choose from, some we just didn’t know about last …
read more
Out & About: Bring On The Weekend Sun!WEEKEND WARRIORS...it’s time to get your weekend plans set. The sun is shining, the beach is calling, and the boats are all in the water…“Why Hello Summer, we’ve missed you, glad you’re back in time for cocktail hour!” Psst- about …
read more
SPOTTED! Cheryl Richards (mom/photographer extraordinaire)We are kicking off this fun-loving series (hands down favorite) with a renowned Boston photographer, and local Newporter, Cheryl Richards. Side Note: Have you ever shot a noteworthy shutterbug? Two Words: Nerve-Wracking. Cheryl’s gracious demeanor had me convinced I was …
read more
Style Board: Yellow and BlueWednesday is Style Board Day…we l-o-v-e this day! Nothing makes us happier than showing off irrisistably pretty pieces. The majority of our picks will always come from our local 401, and my goodness...our shops have style. 1.A weekend treat from …
read more
Chef’s Choice: Zelda’s Chick-n-Mac…Oh, So Good!To kick off our Chef’s Choice series, we’re spotting the little cafe down on Thames Street full of big personality…Zelda’s! We l-o-v-e Zeldas. From the fun & lively bar to the fantastic food & dining, this place will always be …
read more
Go Play: Norman Bird SanctuaryI love taking a family hike when the sun is shining, or in our case a long, long walk, as my son R declares. At the age of six, it is just constant speed, a lot of imaginary weapons, and …
read more
Playgrounds & State ParksSwings, Slides, Monkey Bars…Oh My! Here is a list of our favorite playgrounds on Aquidneck Island & Bristol NEWPORT Aquidneck Park (Newport Library Park) Corner of King Street and Bowery Street , Newport, RI This park is always hopping. No …
read more
Indoor Rec & FunFor all local town sports such as tennis, little league, basketball, and other fun kid/grown-up activities, please check the links below. Newport Recreation Department The HUT offers year round activities & sports for kids, and adults Newport YMCA A big …
read more
SUMMER CAMPSHere are some of our favorite camps happening on the island. There are so many, we just spotted a few of our favorites! ART & SPECIALTY Art Explorations (Newport Art Museum) Newport, RI 401.848.8200 Ages 6-10 Each day we will …
read more
Hooray…It’s Launch Day!There is so much excitement around our little, but spirited, team here at Newport Connext today. Whew! A few jittery nerves also. But it’s launch day, aka ‘Welcome Savvy Mom’ day. See these heart-stopping peonies above this post? They are …
read more









