So for those of you waiting with bated breath (I’m actually pretty sure no one is waiting with bated breath to hear about anything I say unless it’s my kids waiting to hear if I’m going to let them play Mario Kart on any day other than a Friday) to hear the conclusion of my ice cream adventures in New York City, today’s your day!
After we ate (or forgot to eat) our yummy little lunch, we were escorted into another room of the loft where Kelly Ripa, Stephen Bruce, and The Steely Seductor (the split refrigerator and freezer) were waiting for us.
There were long tables set up and each kid had an ice cream-making station complete with a stool and an apron. As a mom, I was seriously impressed. I was also seriously impressed by the Candy Land atmosphere and the treats that were too pretty to eat.
 Don’t think I wasn’t getting ideas from these adorable marshmallow-filled ice cream cones…
Seriously, I think I was so busy admiring how all the food looked that I kind of forgot to eat altogether at the event.
We were introduced to Kelly, Mr. Bruce, the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, and the world famous Serendipity 3 banana split. Holy moly, that thing was a monster. A delicious, ice cream-filled, banana-clawed, chocolate- and caramel-covered monster.
At that point, the kids all got the chance to make their own banana splits. While we were making them, Kelly walked around the tables.
and really talked to all the kids. I was super surprised that my baby girl who is normally so shy was the one who actually talked to Kelly…
While my hilarious lady-lovin’ little boy couldn’t get a word out. Following a 5-year-old moment
and a banana split…
He decided he was ready to talk.
After we finished with the ice cream, we wandered back into the balloon animal/bubble party/food area (which, by the way, had some pretty amazing views!)
where the face painting re-commenced. I have to say I was super proud of my baby girl who waited a long time while quite possibly the most talented face painter in the world worked on all the bigger kids. I asked my daughter a few times if it would be okay if we didn’t get her face painted that day and she politely informed me that it would not.
It was totally worth the wait.
Since we weren’t going to miss our flight or anything, we just kind of hung out while Meredith got her face painted until we were the last people there, which would’ve been super awkward except for the fact that everyone was just so dang nice.
Sadly, we couldn’t stay forever, but we managed to snap a picture of my kids and I together before we hopped in the car to head home. No, I’m not sporting a crazy new ‘do, it’s just the wind…
We truly did have the time of our lives and can’t thank everyone (again!) enough for the opportunity! We’re also so happy to be able to help support such a wonderful cause. Please visit (even if you have already!) Kelly’s site where you can make a virtual banana split. For every banana split that you make, Electrolux will donate $1 to ovarian cancer research. And after THAT, you can make Serendipity 3’s banana split (and then invite the neighborhood over to help you finish it off…)
Maraschino Cherry
For the “Coward’s Portion,” use 1 banana, 3 large scoops of ice cream, 3 toppings, and whipped cream.
My participation in the “Banana Splits” Campaign for a Cause was sponsored by Electrolux who provided me with travel arrangements to and accommodations in New York to participate. That said, Our Best Bites totally supports and endorses both Electrolux and the Campaign for a Cause.
I absolutely love Kelly Ripa! I went to a taping in of Regis and Kelly in Vegas and she is adorable! By the way, I read your blog often and you and your kids look so familiar?? I'm sure it is a Utah connection somehow…
Kendra, I totally did and she was so humble and sweet that I didn't realize who she was until you mentioned something. She just said she was Amy and a vendor, she didn't say her last name or that she styled the event!
Thank you, everyone, for all your kindness! We would have never been able to go if we didn't have people who read our blog, so thank you for being so nice to us! 🙂
That looks like so much fun! I might be just a little bit jealous! I saw Amy Atlas did all the styling for that event. Did you get to meet her? I would have had to hunt her down. Amy Atlas, Kelly Ripa, and ice cream! What could be better?
(I have a total girl crush on Kelly Ripa.)
That is awesome face painting on a very cute face! And those treats are the most inspiring, yummy looking things. Glad you got to go.
That is awesome…what a wonderful opportunity for all of you!
omgsh!! how fun!!! LOVE all the treats! SO cute!!
LOVE Kelly 2… she is adorable.
Thanks so much for sharing, Kate! Your kids are adorable, as are you. Every time I read one of your recipes, I gain at least a pound… Sigh… Such is my life. Glad you had such a fun trip. Your kids will always remember their brush with fame!
WOW, what a super cool adventure! Thats one I would always remeber if I was a kid. Great job MOM 🙂
Oh my, your Kids are ADORABLE! Could you post a recipe for them 'cause I bet they are deeeelicious when nibbled on…?
You have the most precious little girl I think I've ever set eyes on!
Just look at that sweet painted face. It was worth the wait just for that smile.
You have some super cute kids!
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That looks so fun Kate! What a great opportunity that will be remembered forever! I agree that those treats were wonderful idea makers : ) Glad you had fun.
Nicole