Halloween 2020 Roundup

It goes without saying that this year’s Halloween will be a little different than years past. But, this is New Jersey! We rescheduled Halloween because of a hurricane, we can definitely handle this! Here’s a roundup of some fun events still on the calendar and a variety of ways to safely get into the spirit.

Scarecrow Stroll Fun

Downtown Cranford’s annual Scarecrow Stroll is happening now until November 1st. The streets are filled with spooky creations and you can vote for your favorite! Ballots are available throughout downtown and can be dropped in the newly redesigned Scarecrow Stroll Ballot Box located at the clock plaza. You can also take a selfie with a scarecrow (entry counts twice if you’re in costume!) and email it to dmc@cranfordnj.org by 10/31 to be entered into a drawing for a prize!

There is a Scarecrow Stroll movie series at the Cranford Drive-In Movie Theater with tons of spooky family favorites.

Play Halloween Bingo! Print the board located here, complete 4 squares in a row and email completed board to dmc@cranfordnj.org by 10/26 for a prize!

There is also a Cupcake Decorating contest. Buy a cupcake kit from Cake Artist Cafe at 8 Eastman St, decorate it and send a picture to dmc@cranfordnj.org by 10/31.

Dress up!

Grab your pet and participate inHowl-O-Ween!

Take a picture of your own costume and submit it to the Cranford Jaycees virtual Cranford Halloween Costume Contest!

All hope is not lost for this year’s Pumpkin Chunkin’ either! Pumpkin Chunkin’ is going to be streamed online with extra events which should make for some fun viewing!

Stop by Track 5 Coffee Saturday 10/24 from 12-4 with a canned good donation to Cranford Family Care and get a cup of apple cider, a mini muffin from Breadsmith and a novelty spider ring!

Visit our neighbors!

Westfield is putting on a great Addams Fest celebrating the spooky creations of Westfield native Charles Addams. There are wickedly decorated windows, hauntingly festive homes and even the parks are joining in on the fun. Mindowaskin Park has become Mystical and Tamaques Park has a haunted trail!

In Rahway, the Merchants and Drovers Tavern Museum is hosting Spirits of Rahway Lantern Lit Tours Friday 10/24 and Saturday 10/25. Reservations are required.

As with all events this year, wear a mask and practice social distancing. Let’s make the most of the Halloween season!

Fall in New Jersey

It’s officially fall, and I just love fall in New Jersey. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing like the Jersey Shore each summer, but don’t sleep on New Jersey in Autumn. With some of the most beautiful parks, stunning fall foliage, and the cooler, crisper weather, fall in NJ is where it’s at.

The picture on top is from a recent hike I did with my family in the Watchung Reservation. We’ve lived in Union County for 7 years, but we’ve barely scratched the surface of all this gem has to offer. There are miles of hiking trails friendly for all ages. We did this hike with our 2 year old and 5 year old in tow, and they did great! The leaves are only just starting to turn, but as they blaze red, orange, and yellow, they are a sight to behold.

This fall, I hope to hike more, go apple picking at Wightman Farms, pick out our pumpkins from the pumpkin patch at Williams Nursery, and of course check out all the scarecrows in Downtown Cranford’s annual Scarecrow Stroll. The Scarecrow Stroll, an annual outdoor event where local businesses, Girl and Boy Scout troops, and individuals create a unique scarecrow to display on the downtown streets, remains one of my most favorite fall events. I can’t wait to walk the streets and check out the spooky and silly creations.

The one event I’ll be missing this year is the Hanson Park Rubber Ducky Race. If you’ve ever been, you know it draws quite the crowd. Everyone loves watching those ducks race over the waterfall at Sperry Park. As we’ve learned, crowds are a no-go this year, so the ducks will be racing in spirit, and I’ll be sporting my Unmask the Duck t-shirt instead.

In a year that has been so abnormal, I’m really looking forward to celebrating this new season in so many familiar ways. Can you believe I made it through an entire blog post about fall without saying, “This season, fall in love with New Jersey”? Whoops! ;)

Summer Day Trips for Families

Isn't it crazy how winter feels like it will never end, and then before you know it, summer is almost here?! With temperatures topping 80 degrees and spring break coinciding this week, summer is on everyone's mind. If your family is thrilled (or terrified) by the idea of 3 whole months of no school and rising temperatures, take heart! There's an abundance of family friendly activities within driving distance. Here's just a few ideas for keeping your crew entertained this summer:

The Jersey Shore

You can't think about summer in New Jersey without thinking of the Jersey Shore. With 130 miles of coastline, NJ has some of the best beaches in the nation. A few that are particularly family friendly, offering convenient parking and dining options are Long Branch, Point Pleasant and Asbury Park.

Nature Walks and Parks

If you're interested in the great outdoors with a little less sand check out the fantastic trails and programming available at these wonderful New Jersey locales.

• Paterson Falls - A National Park in our own backyard. These falls are truly breathtaking.
• Watchung Reservation and Trailside Nature and Science Center - Trailside offers programming for toddlers and preschoolers plus the Nature Center is a great place to cool down after a a hike. The reservation also offers the Loop Playground for kids of all ages.
• South Mountain Reservation - South Mountain has miles of manageable trails, a fairy village, and a dog park for your 4 legged friend. 
• Great Swamp Watershed - Miles of trails plus fun checklists for spotting all the wildlife that abounds.
• Echo Lake Park Pedal Boats - Take a pedal boat out on the lake then head over to the playground and enjoy some ice cream.
• Liberty State Park - For breathtaking views of lower Manhattan plus the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, head to Liberty State Park. You can even catch a ferry to Lady Liberty or visit the historical railroad terminal. 
• Cheesequake State Park and Island Beach State Park - Perfect for hiking, fishing, camping, or swimming, these state parks combine the best of the parks with the best of the beach.

Farms, Aquariums, and Zoos

Why not let your little wild animals run around with some real wild animals? Even the littlest kids will enjoy seeing their favorite animals up close and personal.

Alstede Farms and Brookhollow's Barnyard offer farm fresh goodies and a chance to view your favorite farm animals up close. 

Valley Shepherd Creamy is all about sheep! In addition to delicious cheeses, they also offer tours of the sheep shearing and cheese making processes.

Fosterfields Living Historical Farm - While not a petting farm, Fosterfields allows kids to see farming as it was done in the 1920s! 

The Staten Island, Turtle Back, and Central Park Zoos are all on the smaller side and totally manageable in a day or even an afternoon. There's plenty to do with little kids, and you won't have to worry about what to see and what to skip.

The Bronx and Philadelphia Zoos, while a bit farther, are larger and offer some impressive experiences like a monorail and tiger terrace!

Go big at Camden Adventure Aquarium or go small at Jenkinsons Aquarium.

Museums

Check your local library before planning a day at one of these great NJ museums. Many offer FREE passes with just your library card!

• Grounds for Sculpture
• Liberty Science Center
• Please Touch Philadelphia
• Staten Island Children's Museum
• Garden State Discovery Museum
• Imagine That 

Outdoor Theater

While traditional theater is challenging for children, outdoor theater and puppet theater provide a unique opportunity to enjoy a show even with young kids. 

Swedish Cottage Theater - Older kids may enjoy classical marionette theater in this historic cottage in Central Park. 

Roosevelt Park Edison - With outdoor performances at convenient times for little ones (1 & 4pm), Plays in the Park (Roosevelt Park, that is) are perfect for capturing kids attention. 

Boats and Trains

It's not the destination, it's the journey right? Explore some new modes of transportation with little ones where both the journey and the destination are sure to please.

Staten Island Ferry - For unparalleled views of the Statue of Liberty, take the FREE Staten Island Ferry round trip from Battery Park. 

Train to Somerset Patriots Game - Take the Raritan Valley line to the Bridgewater Station Stop and enjoy $2 off tickets. 

Train to Long Branch or Asbury Park - Combine the best of the beach with the thrill of the train and take NJ Transit to the shore.

Amazing Playgrounds

Finally, you can always keep it simple with a trip to the playground especially when there are so many awesome playgrounds to visit this summer.

• Hoboken Pier C Floating Playground
• Ponderosa Splash Park Scotch Plains
• Kidstreet Bridgewater
• Regatta Playground at South Mountain Recreation Center
• Hudson River Park Pier 51 Playground

 

Cranford - Westfield Area Guide to Local Races (Spring Edition)

I'd love to say that I'm one of those runners who does it purely for the thrill of the wind in my hair and miles of quiet road ahead of me, but if I'm being real, I'm in it for the races. Nothing motivates me to lace up more than a great local race. I love the enthusiasm of the crowds, the thrill of the chase and of course, the post-race swag and snacks. And there's no better time to race than in the Spring! Here's a guide to this season's upcoming local (and semi-local) races. As always, this list is meant to evolve, so if I've left out any local favorites, please let me know, and I will gladly amend.

Cranford Cougar Dash

• Distance: 5k & 1 Mile Fun Run
• Location: Nomahegan Park, Cranford
• Date & Time: Sunday April 2, 8:30AM
• Benefitting: Walnut Ave and Livingston Ave School PTAs

Cherry Blossom 10k Run

• Distance: 10k
• Location: Branchbrook Park, Newark
• Date & Time: Sunday April 9, 10AM

Rutgers Unite Half Marathon & 8k

• Distance: Half Marathon & 8k
• Location: Rutgers University, Piscataway
• Date & Time: Sunday April 9, 8AM

Miles with Mom

• 5k & 1 Mile Fun Run
• Location: Oak Ridge Park, Clark
• Date & Time: Sunday April 23, 8AM
• Benefitting: Mother's Center of Central NJ

New Jersey Marathon and Half Marathon

• Marathon & Half Marathon
• Location: Monmouth Park, Oceanport
• Date & Time: Sunday April 30, 7:30AM

Newport 10k

• 10k - flat and FAST!
• Location: Newport Town Center, Jersey City
• Date & Time: Saturday May 6, 8:30AM
• Benefitting: Jersey City Medical Center

Brookside Place 5k Fun Run

• 5k and 1 Mile Fun Run
• Location: Brookside Place School, Cranford
• Date and Time: Sunday May 7, 9AM
• Benefitting: Brookside Place School PTA

Cranford - Westfield Area Dog Lovers Guide

You may think that families move to the suburbs once they have outgrown their urban apartments and are in search of more space. While that is definitely true for some folks, there's lots of reasons people make the leap from city life to small town living, and for some of us, that reason is our four-legged best friends!

Kids were not even on the horizon for me when I began looking at homes in Cranford. Really, I just wanted a dog! More and more apartments are finally recognizing that life is better with a pup, but they are still not allowed in many rented spaces. I knew I needed a dog in my life, so I found myself a home in the suburbs and adopted my sweet Layla girl. Of course once a dog lover gets a dog, the very next step is spoiling them rotten. I've spent years spoiling my girl, and I'm here to help you do the same. Read on for the top spots for dogs and dog lovers in the Cranford - Westfield Area.

1. Echo Lake Dog Park- Mountainside

Union County's natural resources are some of the biggest benefits to dog owners in our area. The wealth of parks and open space is doggie heaven, but nothing is better than the dog park! With separate spaces for small and large dogs, your best bud can play to her heart's content all seasons of the year.

2. In and Out Dog Wash- Garwood

Of course, there's nothing like the dog park to turn your dog into a bit of a mud monster, so clean him up at In and Out Dog Wash. You can either drop your pup off for traditional grooming or do it yourself at one of their four full service dog washing stations. Plus, if you bring your dog's bedding, they will wash it for you so it's clean and ready to go right along with your dog!

3. Just 4 Pooches- Cranford

If you want to take pampering your pooch to the next level, be sure to visit Just 4 Pooches. With a wide range of products from food and shampoos to leashes, collars and toys, it's pretty easy to go on a doggie spending spree. Owner, Lynne, is incredibly knowledgeable and available to answer all your questions and make great recommendations.

4, Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming- Westfield

Looking to pick up some adorable treats for your furry friend? Look no further. Woof Gang offers premium dog (and cat!) food as well as grooming services and doggie day care.

5. The Barker Lounge- Cranford

If the thought of your dog home alone while you work or travel breaks you heart, Barker Lounge is here to save the day! Just drop your pup off, and Barker promises "ample opportunity for wrestling, playing on our jungle gyms, swimming, fetching, playing tug-of-war, running, napping, playing ball, chasing bubbles, meeting new friends, and catching up with old ones." Um, can I go there? 

6. Petco- Clark

If the great local options above don't meet your needs, Petco in Clark is right up the road and offers up every imaginable pet product. Your dog will never have to wait long for the right food, treat, bed, jacket, leash or collar. Plus, the Halloween costumes are adorable.

If you haven't found your perfect pooch yet, consider Eleventh Hour Rescue. They work tirelessly to save the lives of dogs and cats in our area. Their dogs are fostered, so they are used to a home environment, and you're able to speak with their foster parents to get a very good sense of their temperaments. Most importantly Eleventh Hour stands by all their rescues and is always available for guidance and support. Life really is better with a dog, so what are you waiting for?

Cranford - Westfield Guide to Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is right around the corner. It's a time to shower the people you love with love and a great excuse for a little winter celebration after the holidays have passed. Here's some traditional and not so traditional ways to celebrate Valentine's Day with everyone you love in the Cranford - Westfield Area.

Traditional: Dinner and a Show

When planning a date night out, you really can't go wrong with dinner and movie. And thanks to the vibrant downtowns in Cranford and Westfield, you don't have to go far for either. You can park downtown, enjoy a fabulous meal then head to one of our fabulous local movie theaters or support community theater and catch a live show! Check out the local restaurants offering Valentine's Day specials then keep reading for information on movie theaters and community theater offerings.

Dinner

A Toute Heure* - Cranford

Not only one of Cranford's best restaurants, but truly one of the best restaurants I've ever had the pleasure of dining at, A Toute Heure offers lovingly prepared meals utilizing fresh, local, in season ingredients. For Valentine's Day, they are offering a 4 course tasting menu with seatings from 5pm-10pm. 

One Hundred Steps* - Cranford

Conveniently, A Toute Heure opened a sister restaurant across the street designed for seafood lovers. Normally not open Tuesdays, One Hundred Steps will be open with a special menu on Valentine's Day. They offer a raw bar as well as a seafood heavy New American cuisine menu.

Bar Americana - Cranford

Bar Americana is cozy and fun, and they are offering a three course pre-fixe menu including dessert and complimentary champagne toast!

Pairings* - Cranford

Pairings will be offering a four course dinner culminating in something called a "Chocolate Bomb." Yes please!

Tablespoon Cafe*  - Cranford

Tablespoon is featuring a four course pre fixe menu. Good luck choosing between the Maine Lobster Bisque and the Truffle Goat Cheese Ravioli for your second course!

*BYOB

Shows

One of the most fun parts of Downtown Cranford and Downtown Westfield is that each town has a local movie theater! There's nothing quite like smelling freshly popped popcorn while strolling through town. On Valentine's Day, why not catch a movie after dinner? And because Valentine's Day is a Tuesday, you can take advantage of reduced ticket prices at both locations and see a movie for less than $10 a ticket!

Cranford 5 - Cranford

Rialto 6 - Westfield

For some LIVE theater, check out the Cranford Dramatic Club! They'll be performing Noel Coward's Blithe Spirit Thursday, Friday and Saturday February 10-18. 

Wine Bars

If wine is the way to your heart, not that I know anyone like that, check out these local wine bars offering live music and Valentine's Day specials. 

Rosie's Wine Bar - Garwood

Rosie's offers a huge wine selection served in a hip atmosphere. For Valentine's Day you can purchase a special "Romance Package" in advance for a nice surprise. 

16 Prospect Wine Bar and Bistro - Westfield 

With a wonderfully warm atmosphere (think twinkly lights) and live music 5 nights a week, 16 Prospect is a great night out!

Brunch or Dinner at Home

If the Valentine's Day crowds are not your thing or maybe you're looking to include the entire family in your celebration consider a Valentine's Day brunch or make your own special meal at home with some expert help.

Paragon Tap and Table - Clark

For something a little different, Paragon is offering a Valentine's Day Brunch on Sunday February 12 from 11:30-3. Children are half the price of adults, so it's a sweet way to celebrate with the whole family!

Perrotti's Quality Meats - Cranford

If you want to really impress your date or your family, there's nothing like a home cooked meal. After all, food is love! For the best cuts of meat with a side of expert advice, check out Perrotti's. The entire team there is so knowledgable and eager to help, and their meat does not disappoint! So, pick up a couple filets or a pot roast for the whole family. 

Less Traditional Options

These next options are great for spreading the love to both dates and great friends. If you haven't celebrated Galentine's Day with your girls, you're missing out! 

Cozy and Creative

Two great ways to have a blast with those you love are to get cozy and get creative! By get cozy, I mean spas and massages. A day at the spa with your girlfriends or a couples massage with a partner is a great way to share some love! For an extensive look at spas in our area, check out my Wellness Guide. 

Two spots to check out if you're looking to flex your creative muscles are Fire Me Up Studio and Art e Vino both in Cranford.

Fire Me Up Studio - Cranford

Fire Me Up has a ton of options for unlocking your creativity including pottery painting, glass fusing, clay handbuilding and canvas painting. On Friday 2/10, they are hosting a pottery night based on the movie Ghost and on Saturday is a beautiful canvas painting. You can bring your own snacks and beverages plus your creations can double as Valentine's Day gifts!

Art e Vino - Cranford

Art e Vino is offering a couple's canvas paint night on Valentine's Day. Each partner paints half of a canvas. That's some pretty strong team building!

Fit and Fun

Sometimes getting moving with friends or a date is the best way to connect and unwind. If you're interested in checking out some area fitness classes, see my Guide to Fitness or go ice skating! Warinanco Park is closed for renovations this season, but check out Union Sports Arena. They offer public skating time Friday and Saturday nights and admission plus skate rentals are less than $20 per person!

Really Wild

If you're looking for a totally different and truly wild way to celebrate Valentine's Day check out Turtle Back Zoo! On Saturday February 11 from 6 to 10pm TBZ is hosting Date Night at the Zoo! There will be dinner and dessert, a cash bar, and a behind the scenes tour and up close animal presentation with an emphasis on "The Birds and the Bees."

Have a happy Valentine's Day, and check back here soon for more local guides including a runner's guide and one for dog lovers! 

Cranford - Westfield Guide to Wellness

In my blog post on fitness options in our area, I mentioned that there were too many fitness and wellness options to include in one post. Here is your promised follow up guide to wellness in the Cranford - Westfield Area.

This winter's buzzword seems to be "Hygge." It's the Danish term for a general feeling of coziness that, if you let it, will transform your winter. This New Yorker article captures the growing trend. The first step to feeling cozy this winter and all year round is taking care of yourself. Be sure to check out these local resources for tending to your personal wellness this year.

Juice & Health Food

"Let food be thy medicine." - Hippocrates. Health and wellness really starts from the inside out. Check out these local options for healthy and delicious fare.

1. Fresh Press Juice Co. - Cranford

Featuring cold pressed juices, organic nut milks made in house daily, cleanses, soups, salads and more!

2. The Juice House - Garwood

Offers juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls, kombucha on tap and more! Try the Papa Smurf or the Lady in Red. You will not be disappointed!

3. Fresh Bui - Westfield

Juices, smoothies, teas and more!

4. Ono Bowls - Westfield

5. Whole Foods - Clark

Everyone knows Whole Foods has a ton to offer the health conscious. The Clark location (in addition to having LOTS of parking) offers catering, a juice bar and three buffet bars serving vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options daily.

6. Edible Arrangements - Cranford

Send someone you love the gift of good health! These make an especially great gift for new parents as they help offset all the delicious lasagnas and midnight bowls of cereal.

Massage & Spa

As luxurious as they sound (and yeah they really are) massages have a lot of health and wellness benefits. Luckily, there are so many wonderful day spas in the Cranford - Westfield area, it's easy to fit massage therapy into your wellness schedule. The spas below offer many different types of massage as well as spa favorites like facials and acne treatments and speciality treatments highlighted below. 

1. Flic Spa - Cranford

Flic offers a range of massages including couples massages and prenatal massages.

2. On The Side - Westfield

On the Side offers Oncology Treatments specific to the needs of individuals suffering side effects of cancer treatment.

3. Utopia Salon and Day Spa - Westfield

Utopia is currently offering a 75 minute winter facial treatment as well as vitamin and microcurrent facials.

4. The C.A.L.M. Approach - Garwood

C.A.L.M. offers trigger point therapy and sports massages. 

5. Massage Meridians for Wellness - Westfield

Massage Meridians offers massage therapy for cancer patients as well as aromatherapy and neuromuscular therapy.

 

ACUPUNCTURE

Like massage, acupuncture is another often overlooked component of overall health and wellness. If you're looking to add acupuncture to your life, check out these area resources.

1. Acupuncture Health Associates - Westfield

Acupuncture Health Associates offers treatments for fertility, pain management and eye conditions. 

2. Acupuncture and Holistic Healing Center - Scotch Plains

Acupuncture and Holistic Healing Center offers Chinese Cupping Therapy and treatments for children's wellness. 

 

Wellness Centers

Finally, if you've tried everything above and are looking for something new and different, check out the varied wellness centers in our area.

1. Nature's Salt Cave and Float Pod - Cranford

The local publication "Downtown Cranford" recently visited this new local business and provided a great overview of all they have to offer including two salt caves and a float pod. Sessions can be bought individually, in packages or as part of a membership.

2. Seraphim Wellness - Cranford

In addition to massages and facials, Seraphim offers nutrition consultations and plans and energy treatments.

3. Bella Organici - Cranford

Bella Organici offers services like skin care and organic tanning as well as meditation classes and yoga parties!

4. Chill Cryotherapy - Westfield

Cryotherapy is the brief application of extremely cold temperature to the skin which many believe offers a variety of benefits. In case that's too chilly for you this winter, they also have a sauna :)

5. Power Stretch Studio - Westfield

If you're looking to improve your flexibility and relieve stress but aren't sure yoga is for you, check out Power Stretch Studio. A free evaluation is included in your first session. 

Cranford - Westfield Guide to Fitness

As a recent popular blog post on NJ Urban Thinker evidences, the merits of the Cranford area are far from a well kept secret. This region has so much to offer residents and visitors that it can almost be overwhelming if you don't know where to start. In an effort to highlight just some of the wonderful area businesses and resources, I've created some guides to unlocking the Cranford - Westfield region and enjoying it to the fullest. I hope they are useful to you in discovering new local treasures or planning a fun weekend outing!

It's that time of year when fitness is on everyone's mind. Whether or not you're a fan of resolutions, January is a good time to start developing some healthy habits. The non-stop eating extravaganza of the holidays is over, and it's really too cold to do much else. There are actually so many healthy resources in the Cranford - Westfield area, that it's too much for one guide. I've got a guide to overall health and wellness and a guide for runners specifically coming your way soon, so keep an eye out for those. If you're looking to kickstart your 2017 fitness plans by trying something new or taking your workouts to the next level, consider the area businesses below. Enjoy!

All promotions included below were indicated per the business website at the time this blog was published. Be sure to check with the business owners for the most up to date promotion information.

Full Service Gyms & Personal Training

First, let's start with the all-inclusive options. If you're looking to join a new gym in 2017, this area has you covered. Here are just some of the local gyms:

1. Strength and Fitness Club - Cranford

I may be partial because this is my gym, and I love it there, but this family owned and operated gym provides a friendly and supportive environment to get in shape. Strength and Fitness offers childcare and all classes are included in membership fees. Be sure to check out Circuit Mania with Ricardo or Spinsanity with Meredith!

2. Blue Peak Fitness - Cranford

Blue Peak Fitness is a full service gym with childcare, personal training, group fitness and other amenities like tanning and a smoothie bar.

3. Westfield Area Y - Westfield

There's not much the YMCA doesn't have. They offer classes that serve every member of the community's unique needs, and they offer childcare!

4. Jeni-Fit - Westfield

A truly full service gym! In addition to personal training, they offer classes in cycling, pilates, yoga, boot camp, and crossfit as well as a stroller class for new moms.

5. GHOS - Westfield 

GHOS, short for Go Hard or Starve, offers personal or group training plus nutrition counseling. A quick look at their testimonials page shows a lot of love!

6. Gold Medal Fitness - Garwood

Conveniently located, Gold Medal offers childcare and personal training as well as a variety of classes.

7. Active Life Fitness - Garwood

Active Life provides personal training specifically geared towards men and women aged 40 and up.

8. Retro Fitness - Clark

Membership at Retro Fitness includes access to their Cardio Movie Theater. Check out their free trial!

9. Game Changer Gym - Springfield

Game Changer is a gym with small group fitness classes that offers results with 3 weekly sessions.

10. Crunch Gym - Garwood

Crunch is a large gym with lots of parking and they are under $10 a month!

Cross Training

If you've done the gym thing or maybe already have a gym you love but are looking to add some cross training to your routine, check out these great options:

1. Orange Theory Fitness - Garwood

This is the new workout that everyone is talking about! Orange Theory utilizes a heart rate monitor to track intensity (your goal is to stay in the "Orange Zone") and alternates between cardiovascular and strength training promising a sustained calorie burn that lasts even after the class ends. Check out a free trial class!

2. Crossfit KOA - Cranford 

Crossfit is a much loved program both for its high intensity workouts and the sense of community among its members. Crossfit KOA can accommodate all fitness levels and offers a free trial class!

3. Cycle Studio Group - Clark

In addition to cycle classes, Cycle Studio Group also offers TRX, barre, yoga, and bootcamp. Your first class is free!

Martial Arts & Kickboxing

For a different type of cross training that offers benefits for self defense and stress relief, consider Martial Arts or Kickboxing, and be sure to check out the following local options: 

1. Cesar-Kai Academy - Cranford

Cesar- Kai offers Martial Arts and self defense classes for children and adults, and their testimonials are inspiring.

2. CKO Kickboxing - Fanwood

Nothing feels better after a stressful day that working your aggression out on the bag. CKO offers a free trial class!

3. Hands of Life Martial Arts - Garwood

Hands of Life provides a beginner friendly space for martial arts, kickboxing, and self defense. 

4. Satori Academy - Cranford

Satori borrows their name from the Japanese term for enlightenment and encourages students to be "in the moment, at your best." You don't have much to lose with a two week free trial!

Yoga, Bar(re) & Pilates

If you prefer a lower impact workout with an emphasis on mindfulness but still want to feel the burn, don't worry, there's plenty of options at your fingertips:

1. Alleum Yoga - Cranford

Start or strengthen your practice in the most peaceful setting imaginable. Take advantage of their New Student Special of 3 classes for $30! They also offer prenatal classes.

2. Hot Yoga Revolution - Cranford

You are guaranteed to work up a sweat practicing yoga in their heated rooms. Perfect for those cold winter days. Hot Yoga Revolution offers bootcamps as well as classes for beginners. You first month of unlimited classes is $50!

3. House Yoga - Kenilworth

House Yoga is a charming yoga studio offering unlimited classes for your first month for $49. Bring a friend new to the studio, and he or she can take the class with you for free!

4. Satsang Yoga - Westfield

In addition to offering a variety of yoga classes, this studio also offers free community meditation classes!

5. POE Yoga - Westfield

POE utilizes cutting-edge infrared technology to heat the room to 95 degrees for either hot yoga or hot Fire Barre. Your first class is free!

6. Bar Method - Westfield

For long, lean muscle, it doesn't get better than Bar. Bar Method offers a 30 day unlimited pass for new members for $100.

7. Pure Barre - Westfield

Inspired by ballet and named for the barre ballerinas use for support during exercises, Barre is one of the most popular low impact, total body workouts around!

8. Club Pilates - Westfield 

The Pilates Method is designed to foster strength, flexibility, balance, and mental awareness. There's no better way to start the year than with more balance. Club Pilates offers intro as well as unlimited classes.

Dance

Finally, if you've tried all the workouts above but haven't yet taken a dance class or maybe haven't taken one since you were a kid, you're missing out! These workouts are fun and challenging for both the mind and body. Be sure to include them in your fitness plan for the year!

Dance

1. Sharon Fit Belly Dance - Cranford

Sharon has classes in belly dance, line dance, and hooping as well as offering dance parties. This studio has it all!

2. Arthur Murray Dance Center - Cranford

Arthur Murray has a history dating back to 1912, and the instructors are international award winning dancers. Free personal lesson for new members!

3. Le Pari Dance Center - Fanwood

Le Pari offers a $25 introductory evaluation for new students. Members enjoy group classes, socials and singles events.

4. Fred Astaire Dance Studio - Westfield

Enjoy a free session for new students! They also offer wedding consultations if you're planning on making that first dance one to remember.

Phew! I told you there were a ton of options available in the Cranford - Westfield area for everyone looking to get in or maybe back in shape this year! Plus, if you're nervous to attend a new class alone, don't worry there are dozens of Meetup groups dedicated to finding your fitness buddies. It's a really wonderful way to meet new friends while doing something great for your health.

Did I miss anything? I'm sure I did, so please feel free to comment with your own personal favorite  area gym or fitness studio. I hope you're feeling inspired to check these places out. I know I am!

Helpful Resources

If you're thinking about buying, I suggest you keep the following three things in mind:

1. Know your budget. Getting pre-approved or pre-qualified for a mortgage is a great place to start. 
2. Determine your must-haves. Whether you need a quick commute, outstanding schools or a move-in ready home, be mindful of your priorities.
3. Partner with a licensed real estate agent who shares your values and will work tirelessly to meet your needs and help you find the home of your dreams. 

Check out these great resources for more tips and guidance, and please contact me with any questions. I'm here to make your search for the perfect home a pleasant experience. 

• 5 Habits to Start Now if You Hope to Buy a Home in 2017 - Even if buying a home is not on your immediate horizon, there are still some things you can do to get yourself in the best possible position when the time is right. 
• Putting Mortgage Rates Into Perspective - Interest rates are on the rise. What does that mean for mortgages?
• What Types of Loans Should I Know About When Buying a House? - Speaking of mortgages, it's important to find the loan that's right for you.

Just for fun...

• Fixer Upper's Dreamiest Breakfast Nooks - Even if you haven't found your perfect home yet, who's to say you can't start dreaming up your best Chip and Joanna Gaines style renovations? Breakfast is the most important meal of the day!