Over The Top Mommy

Year: 2017

2017 Dates Announced for Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own,

It’s almost Halloween time at Disneyland Resort and Mickey’s Halloween Party dates and details are here! If you’ve never been to Mickey’s Halloween Party, i’t a magical experience won’t want to miss out on. This event sells out quickly every year so keep reading for dates and ticket information.mickeys-halloween-party-mickey-and-minnieMickey’s Halloween Party is a separate-ticket event, offered on 14 different nights in September and October. The event features special entertainment, Disney characters in their Halloween attire, and trick or treating at locations throughout Disneyland for candy and healthy snacks. Guests have the option of dressing up in costumes for the party. (Please review the costume guidelines before selecting your costumes.) halloween-time-at-disneyland-resort-haunted-mansion-holiday-facadeIn addition to seasonal Halloween attractions Ghost Galaxy and Haunted Mansion Holiday from “A Nightmare Before Christmas” in Disneyland Park, guests will enjoy fun, exclusive events to the party. One extra-special treat is the “Halloween Screams” fireworks spectacular, a Mickey’s Halloween Party tradition presented exclusively for party guests and hosted by “Master of Scare-omonies” Jack Skellington.mickeys-halloween-party-halloween-screamsAlso exclusive to Mickey’s Halloween Party is the “Frightfully Fun Parade” led by The 
Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow
(from the Disney animated classic “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad”). The Horseman rides through the park on his ghostly black steed with a flickering jack-o’-lantern to usher in the parade featuring Jack Skellington followed by a procession of grim, grinning (and hitchhiking) ghosts from the iconic Haunted Mansion
attraction.mickeys-halloween-party-headless-horsemanThe creepy Dr. Facilier from Disney’s “The Princess and the Frog” calls on mystical powers, summoning his Shadow Men from the bayou to loom large over his strange and twisted Voodoo parlor. The mischievous Disney villains appear out of the darkness, ready to stir up some trouble. The wicked gathering includes the Evil Queen, Jafar and Cruella.
mickeys-halloween-party-paradeDisney characters–villains as well as Mickey Mouse and friends–will appear at locations
throughout the park, and the Cadaver Dans ghostly quartet will perform on the Rivers of
America in New Orleans Square and Frontierland.halloween-time-at-the-disneyland-resort-dansnew-for-2017 Another popular feature of the party is the opportunity for guests to “mix in” with regular park guests for three hours prior to the party’s opening time. This year’s ticket to Mickey’s Halloween Party has even greater value as guests will be able to visit Disney California Adventure as well as Disneyland during those three hours prior to the beginning of the party in Disneyland.

DCA_entrance_halloweenAlso, new for 2017….guests who have admission to Mickey’s Halloween Party will enjoy the added bonus of unlimited Disney PhotoPass. What a great way to capture those special memories without having to worry about taking your own photos so you can just be in the moment with your family. You can download your images to share online or even print out at home as souvenir keepsakes. It’s a great offering and so exciting that guests will now have this included in their party ticket. 2017-mickeys-halloween-party-dates

  • Wednesday, Sept. 20
  • Friday, Sept. 22
  • Monday, Sept. 25
  • Wednesday, Sept. 27
  • Friday, Sept. 29
  • Tuesday, Oct. 3
  • Friday, Oct. 6
  • Tuesday, Oct. 10
  • Friday, Oct. 13
  • Tuesday, Oct. 17
  • Friday, Oct. 20
  • Tuesday, Oct. 24
  • Friday, Oct. 27
  • Tuesday, Oct. 31, Halloween night.

mickeys-halloween-party-ticketsTickets for Mickey’s Halloween Party, purchased in advance, are available at a discount on select nights. Prices start range from $85-$120 for Annual Passholders and $95-$120 for the general public. (The price depends on the selected party date)

Tickets for Mickey’s Halloween Party went on sale Monday, July 17 for Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club members and Disney Visa Card holdersBeginning July 24, Mickey’s Halloween Party Tickets* may be purchased by the public online and on mobile devices at http://Disneyland.com/party, as well as at the Disneyland Resort main gate and by phone at 714-781-4400.

Other important things to know about Mickey’s Halloween Party:

  • Online and mobile purchases are not available the day of the event.
  • Parking is not included in the ticket price, and parking fees will apply.
  • All guests 3 and over must have a ticket.
  •  Mickey’s Halloween Party is a non-smoking event.
  • All attractions and entertainment are subject to change.

Have you attended Mickey’s Halloween Party before or will this be your first year attending? What are you most excited for? Don’t forget to keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for more updates!

Images and rendering are property of Disney. 

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Announces Exciting Additions at D23 Expo

Oh my goodness, so many exciting announcements came out at this year’s D23 Expo!  Walt Disney Parks and Resorts announced an extraordinary line-up of brand new attractions and experiences coming to its parks and resorts around the world as it continues to revolutionize the guest experience! disneyland-resort-bob-chapekWalt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek  unveiled more than a dozen new experiences coming to Disney parks and resorts and gave a sneak peek at much-anticipated projects in development and I’m excited to share them with you! D23-expo-bob-chapek-speaks-to-fansSeveral Imagineers joined the presentation by providing details of the creativity, imagination and innovation in development around the world. Chief Creative Officer of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios John Lasseter also shared his enthusiasm for plans to include a larger Pixar presence at Disneyland Resort. In addition, there was an announcement that Fantasmic! returned to Disneyland Park last night, two nights earlier than it’s original date of  July 17th, in honor of the Expo. fantasmic-mickey

“On the heels of the many new and incredibly popular experiences that just debuted this year, the best is yet to come. We have ambitious plans for our parks and resorts around the world. We’re investing in the guest experience like never before, and we’re doing it all in way that is only possible at Disney!” Bob Chapek, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.

From new lodging and transportation options that make getting around more fun, to original
storytelling and immersive experiences based on guests’ favorites, Disney continues to provide unparalleled vacation destinations for guests across the globe in even more exciting ways than ever before.

The big D23 Expo announcements included:

  • An Unprecedented First Look at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
    Fans were elated to hear their Star Wars stories will come to life in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the newly announced name for the Star Wars-themed lands. Chapek shared exciting new details and a glimpse inside the two anchor attractions, including one that puts guests right in the middle of a battle between the First Order and the Resistance where guests will feel like they are inside a hangar bay on a Star Destroyer. Guests will also have the chance to fly the Millennium Falcon, where each guest is critical to the mission’s success. milleninum-falcon-attractionChapek also revealed many characters that guests will meet, including BB-8, Chewbacca, Rex and Kylo Ren. Representing the largest single-themed land expansion at 14 acres each, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open in 2019, with the first land debuting at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, then at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando.star-wars-battle-attraction
  • Timeless Transformation of Epcot Revealed
    Looking ahead to the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World, there are grand plans to complete the transformation that started with the debut of New Fantasyland in 2014. There are plans across Epcot to realize the original vision of the park while making it more timeless and relevant than ever before. Patterned after the number one family attraction at Disneyland Paris, Ratatouille will be added in an all-new space in the France pavilion at World Showcase. Walt-Disney-World-Epcot-RatatouilleEpcot will also see the addition of a brand new E-ticket attraction based on the rockin’ and action-packed world of Guardians of the Galaxy, the next step in how guests can encounter these characters at Walt Disney World Resort.Walt-Disney-World-Epcot-Guardians-ExteriorWalt-Disney-World-Epcot-Guardians-Interior In Future World, a new Green Mission at Mission: SPACE will take guests on a stunning tour around the Earth, and an updated Orange Mission will make the trip to Mars even more spectacular. Walt-Disney-World-Epcot-Mission-SpaceAdjacent to Mission: Space will be a new restaurant that will invite guests to travel high above the earth for an unforgettable dining experience.Walt-Disney-World-Epcot-Space-Restaurant
  • More Thrills than Ever Planned for Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom
    Disney remains at the cutting edge of deeply immersive, creative storytelling that draws guests into new worlds, and it is a legacy that lives on in every new Disney Parks experience. The first ever Mickey-themed ride-through attraction, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, will come to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Walt-Disney-World-Mickey-attractionWith a new original story and lovable attraction theme song, this new state-of-the-art ride-through attraction will take guests on a journey inside the wacky and unpredictable world of Disney Channel’s Emmy Award-winning “Mickey Mouse” cartoon shorts using new technologies that transform the flat cartoon world into an incredible dimensional experience.
    Chapek also announced that the highest rated attraction at Shanghai Disneyland is coming to Walt Disney World Resort. A thrilling, Tron-themed attraction will be added in a new area near Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom.Walt-Disney-World-Magic-Kingdom-TronWalt-Disney-World-Magic-Kingdom-TRON-2Additionally, a new live entertainment theater coming to Main Street, U.S.A., based on the iconic Willis Theater in 1920s Kansas City, will bring world-class entertainment to the world’s most popular park.Walt-Disney-World-Magic-Kingdom-Theatre
  • Pixar Fun at the Happiest Place on Earth
    In addition to announcing the summer 2018 opening of Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Chapek was joined by Chief Creative Officer of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios John Lasseter to unveil plans for Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure, where the pier will take on a brand new look as more favorite Pixar characters and stories come to life, from The Incredibles, to Inside Out to even more Toy Story. Chapek also announced there is more Pixar in store during Pixar Fest at Disneyland Resort. Starting in 2018, this limited-time offering will include a new fireworks spectacular as well as special characters and entertainment moments.As part of the celebration, the Pixar Play Parade will return to Disneyland Resort, this time at Disneyland Park and the fan favorite Paint the Night Parade will move to Disney California Adventure, one of Disney’s longest parade routes.Disneyland-Pixar-Pier
  • Disney Cruise Line to Double the Size of its Fleet by 2023
    Chapek surprised the crowd by announcing that Disney Cruise Line will add one more ship in its expansion to take family cruise vacations to a whole new level. Joining the other two new ships that were announced just last year, all three ships will be powered by one of the cleanest-burning fuels available, liquefied natural gas. When all three ships are completed by 2023, Disney Cruise Line will have nearly doubled the size of the fleet.Disney-Cruise-line-seventh-ship
  • Immersive Hotel Concepts
    Among the announcements were projects that infuse even more exciting experiences for resort hotel guests in ways that are only possible at Disney. To the delight of fans, Chapek confirmed ambitious plans to create the most experiential concept ever in an immersive Star Wars-themed hotel at Walt Disney World Resort. Dedicated entirely to the galaxy of Star Wars, it will be a one-of-a-kind experience where a luxury resort meets a multi-day adventure in a galaxy far, far away.Walt-Disney-World-Star-Wars-Themed-ResortWalt-Disney-World-Star-Wars-Themed-Resort-2Adding to the immersive resort hotel slate, Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel at Disneyland Paris will transport guests to the action-packed world of Super Heroes, including Iron Man, The Avengers, Spider-Man and more. Guests will be able to explore the Marvel Universe through its comic art, films, Super Hero costumes and more, displayed in the style of a contemporary art galleryDisneyland-Paris-Hotel-New-York-LobbyDisneyland-Paris-New-York-HotelLeading up to the July 17 opening of Copper Creek Villas & Cabins, Chapek also announced the proposed 15th Disney Vacation Club property, Disney Riviera Resort, coming to Walt Disney World Resort near Epcot.Disney-Vacation-Club-Riviera-Resort
  • Seamless Transportation Options
    Completing the immersion so guests never have to leave the story while on a Disney vacation, Chapek announced plans that will make getting around Walt Disney World Resort even more fun. An all-new Minnie Van service will provide a point-to-point transportation service in a way that only Disney can do, giving guests an even more seamless resort vacation from start to finish.Walt-Disney-World-Minnie-Van-ServiceAdditionally, a whole new transportation system called Disney Skyliner will give guests a birdseye view of Walt Disney World Resort. This brand new system will connect Disney’s Art of Animation, Pop Century and Caribbean Beach resorts, as well as the proposed new Disney Riviera Resort, with Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the International Gateway at Epcot.Walt-Disney-World-Skylinerwalt-disney-world-skyline-2
  • Honoring the Heritage of Disney Parks
    In a memorable tribute to the legacy of beloved attractions, entertainment and characters, fans enjoyed a special one-time-only performance of entertainment numbers from Disney Parks through the years. Following the return of the Main Street Electrical Parade, Chapek hinted there are even more fan favorites in store from Disney Parks’ storied past.

I’m so overwhelmed, in a good way, by all of these amazing announcements and can’t wait to see it all come to fruition at Disney Parks and Resorts! What are you most excited for?

Images are property of Disney Parks. 

Despicable Me 3 Inspired Unicorn Bait Recipe

This post was sponsored by Bounty. All opinions are 100% my own. 

I absolutely adore all things Despicable Me and was overjoyed about the release of the latest film in the series, Despicable Me 3, now in theaters! Have you seen it yet? (It’s really cute.)bounty-napkins-fun-prints-unicorn-baitIn honor of the latest film release, Bounty has introduced limited-edition Bounty with new Despicable Me 3 prints paper towels and quilted napkins. They are so cute, you’ll want to stock up your cupboard with a plethora of them. Bounty paper towels and napkins make clean-up quick and fun!, especially now with the new Despicable Me 3 prints. My daughter and I tend to get a little messy in the kitchen together whenever we cook, bake, or make anything, so these durable paper towels really help us clean as we go. Making messes together is half the fun though, right? unicorn-bait-recipe-blue-meltsOne of my (many) favorite parts about Despicable Me 3 is Agnes’ infatuation with unicorns. At the mere mention of the word “unicorn” she practically implodes! She’s beyond adorable when she talks about how they’re “just so fluffy”. We feel the exact same way about unicorns. I think people are drawn to unicorns because everything associated with them seems so happy and colorful. unicorn-bait-recipe-rainbow-candiesAfter seeing Despicable Me 3 in theaters, we were inspired to to spend an afternoon together, whipping up a batch of delicious “Unicorn Bait”. unicorn-bait-recipe-pink-and-blue-meltsBounty with new Despicable Me 3 prints are in stores just in time for Summer break with the kids and all the messy activities that come along with it! It was fairly simple to make this recipe and we only used 3 ingredients. (please see below for the exact recipe.)unicorn-bait-recipe-pink-meltsSince I love the color pink and my daughter loves the color blue, we used both colors in the popcorn coating, mixing together to even get bits that looked marbled. I was happy to have Bounty paper towels nearby to help with our sticky fingers after all of the mixing of colored candy melts and popcorn. unicorn-bait-finishedunicorn-bait-recipe-titleTo make this recipe, you only need these few ingredients:

  • 2-3 bags Microwave popcorn, popped and cooled
  • 1 bag pink candy melts
  • 1 bag blue candy melts
  • 1 bag brightly colored chocolate candiesunicorn-bait-ingredients

Unicorn Bait Preparation

  • For the unicorn bait, we made one batch of “pink” popcorn, and one batch of “blue” popcorn before combining together in a big bowl. Lay wax paper on a flat surface ahead of time. Prepare the pink candy melts by placing in a microwave-safe bowl and cooking for 30 seconds. Remove and stir. Microwave for 30 more seconds, remove, add a tiny bit of vegetable oil, and stir until smooth. Spoon over (or just pour) the popcorn in a bowl and use your hands to mix together well. Place pink popcorn onto the wax paper to cool and prepare the blue candy melts, repeating the steps to coat the popcorn.
  • When you have both popcorn colors prepared, layer them in a large bowl, alternating pink popcorn and blue popcorn. Mix together while the melts are slightly wet still so you get the marbling effect.
  • Finally, add the brightly colored candies to the mixture. You can add extra ones to the top for a finishing touch.unicorn-bait-marbling

Serve your unicorn bait in small snack cups or by the handful, on one of Bounty’s colorful napkins featuring the new Despicable Me 3 prints.unicorn-bait-snack-on-a-minion-napkinNot only is unicorn bait scrumptious, but legend has it that you can also leave some out in a small pile, to capture your very own unicorn! You just have to believe! unicorn-bait-recipe-ready-with-bountyAfter you make this sweet treat, keep the celebration going and be sure to check out Despicable Me 3 in theaters now! It’s rated PG and fun for the whole family.

 

Authentic, Fresh and Delicious Dining at Angelina’s Pizzeria Napoletana

I was invited to dine at Angelina’s Pizzeria in order to facilitate this post. All opinions are my own. 

We recently had the opportunity to dine at Angelina’s Pizzeria Napoletana in Dana Point (they also have a location in Irvine) and had such a wonderful experience as a family. The location we visited is across from the beach and is light & bright with windows all around.angelinas-pizzeria-menusAngelina’s menu offers:

  • Antipasti (appetizers),
  • Insalate (salads)
  • Le rosse pizza (red pizza)
  • Le bianche pizza (white pizza)
  • Primi (first)
  • Panuozzi (sandwiches)
  • Dolci (dessert)
  • Bevande (drinks)

There are also offerings on the Happy Hour menu, which you can order from in the restaurant.angelinas-bruschetta

We started off with an order of Bruschetta Del Giorno. It was so fresh and light. We also ordered a Pizzetta Pancetta E Patate, which is a flatbread topped with pancetta potatoes and rosemary. Mmm! angelinas-pizzetta-pancetta

Our salads were so colorful and delicious. The Golosa is made with chopped romaine hearts, red onion, tri-colored bell peppers, artichoke hearts, pumpkin seeds, fontina cheese and chef’s refreshing mustard lemon dressing. The Dall’orto is made with local organic greens, avocado, red onion, lemon vinaigrette and Grana Padana cheese. Both of these salads are a must-try, in my opinion.angelinas-pizzeria-saladsPenne Al Sugo Con Polpette, is a dish made with penne pasta, San Marzano DOP pomodoro sauce, Napoletana-style meatballs, fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil. This came highly recommended, specifically the meatballs, which are made with a “secret recipe” and we devoured the entire thing. It was amazing!angelinas-pizzeria-penneFor me, dessert time is my favorite part of any meal! If it were an acceptable custom in the U.S., I’d eat dessert first. We shared a Chocolate Tartufo which was beyond decadent. angelinas-pizzeria-chocolate-tartufoI also had my very own COCOAccino, which is Angelina’s signature dessert coffee. It’s cappuccino served in a Nutella rimmed coffee cup. It was like nothing I’ve ever experienced before and I was literally licking my cup! (which was acceptable in this case.)angelinas-pizzeria-cocoaccinoangelinas-pizzeria-top-of-cocoaccinoWhat stood out most to me the most about Angelina’s food were the fresh ingredients in each of the items. Just as important was the level of service, which was so tailored and personal. There is nothing better than finding a family dining destination where you can actually taste the passion behind the food.angelinas-pizzeria-oven This is what you’ll find when you dine at Angelina’s. Whether you stop by the Irvine or the Dana Point location, you’re going to experience a wonderful meal that will have you visiting again soon. To learn more or view Angelina’s full menu, go here.

Yogurtland’s Newest Scratch-made Delicious Flavors for Summer

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. 

This summer, yogurt lovers can pack up their picnic baskets and head to Yogurtland to enjoy five new scratch-made flavors that are reminiscent of family outings and warm summer nights.

These new promotional flavors, available from June 5 to August 6, explore the tastes of summer and are inspired by summer experiences, and the fresh fruits and desserts that are associated with them. These new flavors join Yogurtland’s more than 200 other handcrafted, gourmet flavors that are made at Yogurtland’s very own dairy with mastery and care, and with one thing in mind – delighting guests to the last spoonful.

The five mouth-watering flavors are:

Home Grown Watermelon Sorbet – Starting June 5, this delicious sorbet will have Yogurtland lovers quenching summer heat with the season’s favorite fruit. Combining everything there is to love about watermelon, sweet, fresh, and fruity, this flavor offers a refreshing experience on a hot summer day.yogurtland-watermelon-sorbetSun Kissed Strawberry Shortcake – Inspired by summer’s favorite dessert, this flavor blends the deliciousness of real California strawberries with real sweet shortbread cookie. In each spoonful, the fruity, juicy strawberry taste is followed by notes of cake and whipped cream for a complete dessert sensation.yogurtland-sunkisssed-strawberry-shortcakeSweet n’ Smooth Peaches and Cream Gelato–  This combination of fruity tartness and creamy gelato makes for the perfect summer treat. Inspired by some of the delicious treats individuals crave on a summer day, this flavor fills each spoonful with real Freestone peach taste.yogurtland-peaches-and-creamLarger Than Life Mud Pie – Chocolate fanatics rejoice, this ‘larger than life’ flavor layers rich chocolate, tasty coffee, and delectable chocolate cookies. The perfect balance of each layer comes through to create a decadent mud pie taste for all to enjoy.yogurtland-larger-than-life-mud-piePicnic Favorite Apricot Mango Tart– No picnic is complete without juicy summer fruits. The subtle balance between sweet and tart, this flavor combines two fruit favorites, sweet apricots and juicy mangos. This delicious flavor is available starting July 17.yogurtland-summer-spoonsYogurtland is also introducing two new collectible spoons, one featuring a red watermelon wedge and the other a slice of mud pie. Yogurtland is collaborating with the Watermelon Board to highlight the use of the juice of U.S-grown watermelons in this along-awaited flavor. To top off these delicious flavors, Yogurtland is introducing gummi butterflies as the perfect topping. So what are you waiting for? Get to your closest Yogurtland and try these new flavors while they’re around through August 6.

Images are property of Yogurtland. 

 

DIY Outdoor Movie Night + Bambi Snack Mix Recipe

I received promotional products from Walt Disney Studios in order to facilitate this post. All opinions are 100% my own. 

Summer is here and we decided to celebrate by throwing an outdoor movie night for a few friends and family. I couldn’t think of a better way to do so than by showing one of Disney’s all-time classic films, “Bambi”, which joined Walt Disney’s Signature Collection at the end of May, in honor of its 75th anniversary.diy-outdoor-movie-night-plus-bambi-snack-mix-recipeI loved this movie as a child and was so excited to introduce my daughter and my nieces and nephews to it also.bambi-coverThe Signature Collection release, now available at retailers, contains a variety of new bonus material including:

  • Recordings of Walt Disney discussing the challenges and triumphs during the production of “Bambi;”
  • Deleted scenes and characters;
  • Dtories and effects that “Bambi” had on the Studio, other films and artists;
  • and much, much more

Additionally, the Digital HD release includes an exclusive, heartfelt feature on the incredible artist, Tyrus Wong, who inspired the film’s soft watercolor backgrounds and beautiful palette. Here’s a sneak peek:
In our home, movies always call for snacks, which is why we whipped up a batch of “Bambi Snack Mix” for our guests to enjoy while watching “Bambi” at our outdoor movie. (Please see bottom of this post for snack recipe.)bambi-snack-mix-inside-bagI was delighted to received an amazing bundle of goodies in the mail from Disney to host my outdoor movie night. My bundle contained an AAXA P300 Pico/Micro LED Projector, an Ion Audio Tailgater Portable Bluetooth PA Speaker System with Microphone, an Apple Lightning Digital AV Adapter for iPhone, and a copy of Disney’s “Bambi” on Blu-Ray. I couldn’t wait to get started.set-up-your-own-outdoor-movieSetting up your own outdoor isn’t difficult. I promise. You can choose to project your movie onto on a light colored wall or garage, use a white sheet as a makeshift screen, or even purchase an inexpensive, portable movie screen. We opted for a wall to project ours onto.

The projector we received to use for our movie was a P300 Pico mini projector. It’s small and pretty lightweight. It also produces the most clear, beautiful projections, with high resolution and vivid colors. This projector has the capability to show movies, as well as photos and videos and pairs up with your phone or mobile device or laptop. It’s tiny but mighty and can be set up almost anywhere.bambi-home-movie-projectorAlthough the mini projector already has sound coming out of it, pairing it with the Ion Tailgater speaker system really amplified the sound, to make it even louder for the outdoors. This portable sounds system includes speakers, an amplifier, audio inputs, and wireless Bluetooth technology, all in one durable cabinet that has handles for easy transport and allows you to enjoy your music whenever and wherever you want. . (It also works with iPad, iPhone, iPod, Android devices and more.)diy-movie-setupFor our outdoor movie, I streamed the digital copy of “Bambi” on my phone by using the digital code inside the DVD on the Disney Movies Anytime app. (Do you have this app yet?) Since my laptop doesn’t have the capability to run an internal DVD, I just streamed the movie on my phone with Apple Lightning Digital AV Adapter and my phone hooked directly up to the projector. It was much easier than setting up a laptop anyway. bambi-digital-copyWhenever we have a party or a get-together, we like to do something thematic. Hosting an outdoor movie doesn’t have to be complicated and you can get away with just serving simple snacks like popcorn and drinks. We decided to whip up a batch of “Bambi’s Favorite Snack Mix” which is just a few goodies mixed in with popcorn and served in these adorable Bambi bags that my daughter created out of simple brown lunch bags we had in our cupboard.bambi-outdoor-movie-with-bagbambi-snack-mix-recipe-textTo make your own batch of “Bambi Snack Mix”, here are the ingredients you’ll need:

  • microwave popcorn, 4-6 bags, popped and cooled
  • pretzel sticks or small pretzels, 1 bag
  • chocolate chips or chocolate candies, 1 bag
  • small marshmallows, 1 bag bambi-snack-mix-ingredientsbambi-snack-mix-ingredients-mixed-together

It’s so simple to make, you just combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl. After ours was mixed together, I just filled up each Bambi snack bags with the mix and set out on a table for guests to grab before we started our outdoor movie.bambi-snack-mix-ready-for-guestsTo recreate these Bambi snack bags, you’ll just need brown paper lunch bags, a black marker, scissors, a glue stick, and a cotton ball for each one.make-a-bambi-snack-bagbambi-snack-back-supplies Here’s a short time-lapse video showing how my daughter made a Bambi snack bag.

We had so much fun hosting our very first “Movie Under the Stars” and watching Disney’s “Bambi”. I can’t wait to host our next outdoor movie party. Have you hosted an outdoor movie party before? Tell me what you watched and share some of the details of your outdoor movie party with me in the comments.

Sneak peak film footage is property of Disney. 

Armstrong Garden Centers Offer Free Kids Class Series in July

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own . 

Armstrong Garden Centers will debut its kids class series in July at select stores. The new, interactive sessions will engage the minds of children while helping them learn about critters that are important to gardens. Open to all ages, but ideal for kids grades kindergarten through third grade, topics include wiggly worms, bold butterflies and beautiful birds.

The July kids class series will only take place at Armstrong’s Carlsbad, La Cañada, La Habra, Temecula, Thousand Oaks and Torrance store locations. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.armstrong-kids-classesArmstrong Garden Centers July kids class series schedule is as follows:

  • Wednesday, July 12 at 10:00 a.m. – Wiggly Worms – Learn why worms are important to the soil and how they help plants grow. Kids in attendance will get to meet these wiggly creatures in a hands-on setting and take a worm home, too.
  • Wednesday, July 19 at 10:00 a.m. – Bold Butterflies – This class will allow children to learn about the life cycle of butterflies and how they help flowers bloom. Each child in attendance will make a butterfly feeder to take home and enjoy.
  • Wednesday, July 26 at 10:00 a.m. – Beautiful Birds – Gardens provide food and habitat for birds and birds help gardens grow. Kids attending this class will learn how along with planting a sunflower seed to take home.

California gardeners of all skill levels are invited to attend Armstrong’s community classes in July. Each workshop will encourage attendees to nurture their green thumbs with a wide range of topics to get ready for summer.Watering-gardenAdditional scheduled events for the first full month of summer include:

  • Saturday, July 15 at 9:00 a.m. – Healthy Plants: Fertilizing & Water – Different soils and plants have different nutrient requirements to stay in balance. Learn simple techniques to ensure that you have healthy and beautiful blooms and foliage all summer long. No registration required for this free class. Class not available at the Irvine Outlet location.
  • Saturday, July 22 at 9:00 a.m. – Growing Citrus in the Home Garden – Participants will learn tips to grow bounteous crops of juicy citrus fruit and hear advice from Armstrong’s experts. The Pasadena and La Habra locations will host a tropical fruit tree class during this time. Class not available at the Irvine Outlet.
  • Saturday, July 29 at 9:00 a.m. – Colorful, Flowering Water-wise Plants – Waterwise gardens can be full of colorful flowers. Armstrong’s experts will show attendees perennials and shrubs that provide blooms and beauty all year-long.Class not available at the Irvine Outlet.armstrong-garden-centers-flower

Each class is instructed by a nursery professional who will offer timely gardening advice and hands-on demonstrations.FreeGardenTalks Armstrong Garden Centers also offers free garden talks from its team of experts for local gardening clubs, homeowners associations and other community groups. For more information or to register for a class, please visit their here.

Images are property of Armstrong Garden Centers. 

 

‘Despicable Me 3’ Movie Review (No Spoilers)

I was invited to an advanced screening of Despicable Me 3 in order to write this review. All opinions are 100% my own.

I was a huge fan of the first two “Despicable Me” films, so you can imagine my excitement when I first watched the official trailer for “Despicable Me 3”! If you haven’t watched it yet, here it is:

(Please see the bottom part of this post for my spoiler-free review.of the film)

A couple of weeks ago, I received an invitation to fun “Despicable Me 3” event at The Tuck Room in L.A. It was sort of a “pre-party” for the film. We were treated to a special breakfast, sponsored by Bounty, Kellogg’s & Yummy Spoonfuls, and special guest, Food Network Star Duff Goldman was in attendance.yummy-spoonfuls-smoothiebananas-with-minionscereal-for-breakfast While we sipped on smoothies and feasted on banana pancakes, cereal, & yogurt parfaits, Duff spoke about his partnership with Bounty and “Despicable Me 3”. minion-cupcake-and-pancakesAs a result of this partnership, you can find the most adorable line of Despicable Me 3 paper towels and napkins in stores now. (Hurry while supplies last though.)bounty-minions-paper-towelsDuff made a fabulous “Despicable Me 3” themed cake for the event, with frosting that resembled the new print of the paper towels. I wanted to touch the cake, but I held myself back. It was such a cool cake!despicable-me-3-cakedespicable-me-3-cake-sideKids in attendance at the event had the opportunity to create their own “Minion” cupcake toppers with Duff’s help. He guided them step-by-step to work with fondant to put together their own creations.  how-to-make-minion-cupcakesminion-topperI think the best part was when Duff passed out Minion cupcakes FOR BREAKFAST! Yep, he gave us all special permission to eat them that early in the morning! Duff is really a lot of fun to hang out with! (As you can see)duff-goldman-1Following the breakfast, we proceeded upstairs to the iPic Theaters. (It’s attached to The Tuck Room.) We snuggled into luxurious leather recliners and wrapped ourselves in super soft blankets. ipic-theaters-seatsus-in-theaterIt was such a perfect way to watch a movie and “Despicable Me 3” did not disappoint. I’m not a big fan of posting spoilers so I will just lightly touch on some of the things you already see in the trailer.despicable-me-3-gru-and-druI swear I’ve fallen in love with Gru over the past 2 films, as he’s transitioned into (kind of) a good guy and meeting his long-lost twin brother, Dru, in this one, just adds to the fun. They are hilarious together. I also adore Gru’s girls, Margo, Edith, and Agnes, but especially Agnes and her obsession with ‘fluffy unicorns”. I won’t give away anything but I was a fan of how Gru’s wife,Lucy evolved, especially her placement within the family structure. despicable-me-3-balthazarBoth adults and children will appreciate the 80’s style villain, “Balthazar Bratt” in this film. Personally, I couldn’t get enough of the music that would come on in his every scene and I couldn’t stop laughing at all of his dance moves. It was a definite nod to the 80’s.
despicable-me-3-minionsFinally, you really can never grow tired of Minions and there are some cute Minion-involving scenes in this film, although you won’t see all of the ones from the first film. Overall, I really enjoyed watching “Despicable Me 3” with my family and I would definitely recommend it for other families with children of all ages. It’s just a light-hearted feel good film.despicable-me-3-cast Have you seen “Despicable Me 3”  yet? Let me know your thoughts.

Some images and trailer are used with permission
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‘Fantasmic!’ Nighttime Spectacular Returns to Disneyland July 17 + the Disneyland Railroad is Reopening

Summer is underway at the Disneyland Resort and visitors this time of year are in for a whole lot of WOW on their visits to both theme parks.  celebrate-summer-at-disneyland-resortThere’s something to be said about getting to experience new magic with your family, during your visit, and creating new memories together. I know it’s a favorite in our family. summer-at-disneyland-resortThe thrilling new attraction, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! opened at the end of May and according to wait times shown on the Disneyland app, it continues to draw large crowds on a daily basis. disneyland-app-guardians-of-the-galaxy-wait-timeIt’s the only Disney attraction in the universe where guests step into a Guardians of the Galaxy story, as they help Rocket rescue this cosmic gang of misfits. With multiple ride profiles, guests never know which adventure they’ll encounter.

guardians-of-the-galaxy-mission-breakout-facade

guardians-of-the-galaxy-insideMore exciting news for Disneyland Park as some of the classic attractions are scheduled to reopen n July.  On Monday, July 17, which will also be the 62nd anniversary of the 1955 grand opening of Disneyland,  a newly enhanced “Fantasmic!, will premiere. This popular nighttime spectacular. tells the story of Mickey Mouse and his vivid imagination. “Fantasmic!:will return to the Rivers of America in Frontierland with its classic theme song and engaging storyline, which guests have treasured for 25 years.fantasmic-mickeyIts portrayal of Mickey’s exploration now features new scenes with characters from “Aladdin,” “Tangled,” “The Lion King” and “Pirates of the Caribbean.”fantasmic-aladdin-sequenceOne dazzling sequence finds Aladdin and Jasmine discovering “A Whole New World” as they float on their flying carpet over a bed of fog on the Rivers of America. Those sensational “Fantasmic!” adventures come alive with new mist screens and innovative, state-of-the-art projection technology to create visuals that are brighter and more vibrant than ever before.disneyland-park-here-you-leave-todayExciting news for train lovers of all ages is the re-opening of the Disneyland Railroad, beginning July 29. Park guests aboard the Disneyland Railroad will, once again, be taken on a Grand Circle Tour of Walt Disney’s “original Magic Kingdom”.disneyland-railroadThe Disneyland Railroad, one of the park’s original attractions, returns with its iconic steam-powered locomotives for new adventures. The Disneyland Railroad will now travel across the rocks on a trestle that extends out into the Rivers of America, and for the first time ever it will make a left-hand turn on its tour of the park.new-disneyland-railroad-route-renderingAlong the way, guests will enjoy a view of Walt Disney’s legendary Dioramas of the Grand Canyon and Primeval World, which have been carefully restored to their original splendor with a bit of new magic added to both. Guests on board the Disneyland Railroad also will discover a breathtaking new view along the north bank of Rivers of America.

A gorgeous new Columbia Gorge section highlighted by five new picturesque waterfalls can be seen from the trains as well as from the Mark Twain Riverboat, Sailing Ship Columbia and Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes. This new adventure complements the scenes guests have come to know and cherish through the years. Landscapes inspired by four of America’s majestic rivers–the Mississippi, the Columbia, the Missouri and the Rio Grande–are carefully recreated, complete with indigenous rock formations, natural forests and wildlife, and the waterfalls.disneyland-mark-twainOther Classic Rivers of America attractions are also set to relaunch July 29, including the Mark Twain Riverboat, Sailing Ship Columbia and Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes. They’ll be bringing new adventures and breathtaking new views for guests to enjoy. Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island reopened June 16.disneyland-columbia-shipIn addition to the returning classics in Frontierland and New Orleans Square, the beloved Main Street Electrical Parade continues nightly performances in Disneyland through Aug.20, featuring such favorite scenes as Cinderella’s ball, the appearance (and disappearance) of Elliot, the smoke-breathing, tail-wagging “Pete’s Dragon,” and the glittering “To Honor America” finale.main-street-electrical-parade-signThere’s so much going on this summer at the Disneyland Resort. You’ll want to be sure to check out The Summer of Heroes festivities, which continue at Disney California Adventure Park through Sept. 10. For more information about all of the happenings going on at the Disneyland Resort, visit their site here.

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. Some images are property of Disneyland Resort.