Over The Top Mommy

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Will Include Joyful New Fun at Cars Land And More Beginning November 10

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

The Happiest Place on Earth is about to get merrier, once again, as Holidays at the Disneyland Resort returns Nov. 10, 2017. The magic is endless at both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Parks, through Jan. 7, 2018. Park guests will experience festive cheer as the entire resort transforms into a winter wonderland, filled with seasonal attractions, joyful entertainment, jolly décor and themed treats. holidays-at-disneyland-resort-its-a-small-world-2This festive season, available in the Parks through Jan. 7, 2018. includes the return of favorite holiday experiences, including Festival of Holidays, “World of Color – Season of Light,” and the “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular. The Holidays at Disneyland Resort is one of our family’s favorite times of year to go and experience all of the holiday magic together! holidays-at-disneyland-resort-dca-treeExperience beloved Holiday traditions in both Parks, from snowfall on Main Street U.S.A., to glistening décor, delicious Disney-themed treats and eats, holiday entertainment and the one-of-a-kind transformations that create “it’s a small world” Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday and merry new merchandise including fun items with the “ugly sweater” theme, along with home décor and festive holiday headwear., halloween-time-at-disneyland-resort-haunted-mansion-holiday-signHere are some of the highlights in each park:

At Disneyland Park

  • Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle is a guest favorite with shimmering icicles and more than 50,000 twinkling LED lights. In the evening, the spectacular “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks and its magical snowfall finale captivate guests and create unforgettable holiday memories. disneyland-holidays-castle-daydisneyland-holidays-castle-night
  • A 60-foot Christmas tree with nearly 1,800 ornaments welcomes guests on Main Street, U.S.A. This picturesque sight is a popular backdrop for family and friends to take holiday photos year after year.
  • Disney characters celebrate the season in “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, a daily procession with floats, music, marching “tin soldiers” and holiday cheer. Santa, who makes a jolly appearance in the parade, also will be found welcoming guests at his special location in Critter Country.holidays-at-disneyland-resort-a-christmas-fantasy-parade-2holidays-at-disneyland-resort-a-christmas-fantasy-parade-1
  • The “it’s a small world” attraction shines brighter than ever as it transforms into “it’s a small world” Holiday to celebrate children around the world and the holiday traditions of their countries. The iconic music of “it’s a small world,” written by the legendary Sherman Brothers, is weaved in between the joyous caroling of holiday favorites “Jingle 3 Bells” and “Deck the Halls.” As a special treat this holiday season, FastPass will be available for this attraction.holidays-at-disneyland-resort-its-a-small-world-1
  • Haunted Mansion becomes Haunted Mansion Holiday, celebrating the collision between Christmas and Halloween with Jack Skellington and his friends from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.”halloween-time-at-disneyland-resort-haunted-mansion-holiday-facade

At Disney California Adventure Park

  • The residents of Radiator Springs decorate their establishments with festive fun along Route 66, while two Cars Land attractions put the magic in overdrive as they transform for the first time this holiday. Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters becomes Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree becomes Mater’s Jingle Jamboree. Mater and Luigi add even more cheer to the seasonal fun by singing new holiday tunes for the occasion.holidays-at-disneyland-resort-carsland-1
  • At Santa’s Holiday Visit, at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, guests will play festive Elf Games, enjoy cookie decorating and maybe have a chance to meet Santa Claus and his mischievous elves.
  • The nighttime spectacular, “World of Color – Season of Light” celebrates the warm and heartfelt spirit of the holidays as it illuminates Paradise Bay with a sparkling winter fantasy that combines classic holiday songs with memorable moments from treasured Disney and Disney•Pixar animated films.
  • In anticipation of the new Disney•Pixar film “Coco,” guests will enjoy the Coco Sneak Peek experience at Bug’s Life theater from Nov. 5-Jan. 7, along with special décor.
  • “a bug’s land” transforms for the holidays, too, as Flik and his bug friends deck their land with oversized lights and ornaments.
  • Carthay Circle along Buena Vista Street features a 1920s-inspired holiday theme to emulate Los Angeles as it appeared when Walt Disney first moved to California. A stunning, 50-foot Christmas tree features vintage-style ornaments and surrounding buildings are adorned in old-fashioned seasonal decorations.

holidays-at-disneyland-resort-carsland-2The popular Festival of Holidays is back with the sights, sounds and tastes of diverse cultural festivities and plenty of Disney magic! holidays-at-disneyland-resort-viva-navidadThis heartwarming holiday celebration is inspired by Christmas/Navidad, Hannukah, Diwali, Kwanza and Three Kings Day. Guests will experience:

  • The new Holiday Sunset Concerts: Fun dance parties featuring performing groups Phat Cat Swinger (Friday-Monday) and Mariachi Divas (TuesdayThursday) at Paradise Park
  • The soulful a capella group The Sound, which joins returning holiday performances by Mostly Kosher, Blue13 Dance Company and the Holiday Toy Drummers
  • The lively “Disney ¡Viva Navidad!,” with authentic music, dance, décor, crafts and special greetings by Disney characters, including Princess Elena of Avalor
  • The Festive Foods Marketplace, serving multicultural holiday fare at marketplace kiosks, including a range of flavors: beef corn tamale a la plancha with spicy rojo sauce, braised lamb cheeks with Mediterranean cauliflower, sweet potato pie and fruit and nut rugelach
  • Fun family activities, with holiday arts and crafts, face painting and cookie decorating
  • A festive celebration of Three Kings Day in the final days of Festival of Holidays, Jan. 4-7festival-of-holidays-coloring

The Downtown Disney shopping, dining and entertainment district and all three Hotels of the Disneyland Resort join in the holiday festivities with twinkling lights and ornaments, holiday displays, special entertainment and holiday dining with themed menus. Guests can follow the scent of gingerbread into the lobby of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa to find a big treat – a giant gingerbread replica of the hotel itself.

A very special “Holiday Time at Disneyland” tour is available for guests who wish to experience a close-up look at this festive transformation of the Disneyland Resort. This walking tour shares favorite Disneyland holiday traditions from around the world, along with reserved seating for “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade, delicious holiday treats, a collectible pin and more.

disneyland-holidays-photo-passWill you be visiting the Disneyland Resort for the Holidays this year with your family? This is the place where traditions are shared, memories are made and new experiences make the spirit of the season shine even brighter. Be sure to keep your eyes on the Disney Parks Blog for the more updates about holiday happenings!

 

Mickey Mouse To Celebrate Birthday With Fans Around the World #HappyBirthdayMickey

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

To celebrate his upcoming birthday, Mickey Mouse is surprising some of his biggest fans in eight locations around the globe. Leading up to the big day—November 18—Mickey will take off to such exciting destinations as Japan, Chile, Canada, China, England and the United States.happy-birthday-mickey-2017

These magical moments will be captured and shared on Disney’s Mickey Mouse Facebook and Instagram pages. Mickey will bring a few more surprises when he visits the Good Morning America studios in New York City on November 15. Fans are encouraged to join the fun on social media using #HappyBirthdayMickey.
disneyland-resort-celebrate-summer-mickeyHere are some of the other locations you’ll find birthday surprises celebrating Mickey:
Disney Stores and shopDisney.com – In honor of the occasion, Disney’s e-commerce site shopDisney.com will feature special Mickey birthday merchandise from November 16–23, and on November 18, all Disney Stores in the U.S. will host celebrations throughout the day with entertainment and activities.
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts
On Mickey’s birthday, the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, as well as Disney Stores in the United States, will be distributing commemorative “Happy Birthday, Mickey!” buttons. Disneyland Park in Anaheim will host a special cavalcade featuring some of Mickey’s friends along with the Disneyland Band; and at Magic Kingdom Park in Orlando, characters and performers will dance in a special birthday-themed song during Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It! There will also be commemorative merchandise, treats and photo locations throughout both resorts. Celebrations will also take place at all of Disney’s international theme parks including Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Tokyo Disney Resort and Shanghai Disney Resort.
Disney Channel and Disney Junior
Special marathons of Mickey and the Roadster Racers and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse will air throughout the weekend of November 17 on Disney Channel and Disney Junior, and a
new Mickey Mouse-themed Disney Junior Music Nursery Rhymes short entitled “Happy
Birthday” debuts November 17 on Disney Junior YouTube. On November 18, Disney
Channel will air Mickey Mouse shorts every half hour throughout the day, starting with
the premiere of “The Birthday Song,” a new short in which Minnie Mouse loses the
notes to Mickey’s birthday song and needs to recover them to save the festivities.
Disney’s Digital Worlds
In addition, D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, Oh My Disney, Babble and other Disney
sites will be posting Mickey-related videos, galleries, stories, crafts, recipes and
shareables leading up to and on his birthday. And a selection of Disney games and apps
will feature special Mickey-themed content and giveaways, including Disney Magic
Kingdoms, Kingdom Hearts Union Cross, Disney Tsum Tsum, Disney Magical Dice, Disney
Story Central, Disney Jigsaw Puzzles! and Color by Disney.cigna-run-together-mickey-and-minnieAbout Mickey’s Birthday
Mickey’s birthday is celebrated in honor of the release of his first theatrical film,
Steamboat Willie, on November 18, 1928, at the Colony Theatre in New York City. Since
then, he has starred in more than 100 cartoons and can currently be seen on Disney
Channel in the Mickey Mouse cartoon series and on Disney Junior in Mickey and the
Roadster Racers.

Some images are property of Disney. 

5 Things You’ll Love Most About Working Out at Curves®

This is a sponsored post. All opinions are 100% my own.

A little over a month ago, had the opportunity to join the Curves® community in my city. I had driven past it so many times and was always curious to see what it was like.curves-workout-3

curves-laguna-niguelfacCurves® is a one-stop-shop for every woman’s fitness needs offering a 30 minute, total-body workout with No Makeup, No Men, and No Mirrors. When you enroll in the Curves Fitness® Program, you’re able to participate in circuit classes, utilizing strength training machines, which are designed to burn fat, increase strength, and kick start weight loss.curves-workout-1Curves® recently celebrated its 25th birthday. Wow, 25 years of empowering women to take control of their health and fitness levels! curves-birthday-2I was excited to participate in their birthday celebration on one of the days I went to work out.curves-birthday-1I want to share about my experience with you and share 5 Things (I think) you’ll love most about working out at Curves.curves-list

  • The Curves Community – The moment you walk into a Curves location, you can feel the sense of community. You’ll feel so supported by all of the ladies there. People are friendly, they know your name, they say “hi”. Every time you come in to workout again, you’re greeted by name at the front desk and by the instructors on the floor and the other women there start to remember you. To have someone genuinely ask about how you’re doing and support you, is something really special. The support of other women can really help strengthen your spirit.  Get ready to embrace new friendships
  • One-on-one training and guidance with Curves coaches – Unlike other fitness clubs, your membership at Curves comes with 5 training sessions with a Coach. It not only gives you peace of mind to be walked through the circuit and be properly taught on how to use the strength resistance machines, but it will also help you build confidence to come back and do it all on your own.curves-stretch-area
  • Increased Strength.- After you’ve worked out at Curves for a couple of weeks, you’ll begin to feel increased strength. A strong body helps make everything you do easier and can help prevent common health problems like joint pain and osteoporosis.curves-workout-2
  • Better balance in your life – Having a regular routine scheduled, which includes a workout at Curves a few times (or more) per week, can really help you gain better balance in your life. At just 30 minutes per workout, you can take that time to clear your mind and just relax and refresh.
  • Your new look – After you’ve established a regular workout routine, many things seem to follow. As I mentioned, you’ll have increased strength, as well as a lot more energy. You’ll feel that sense of balance in your life too. I think overall, you’re going to have a new outlook on life and, in turn, it’ll give you a new look. Whether you’ve set and achieved fitness goals or you’ve achieved other goals such as maintaining a regular workout schedule, it’s likely that you’ll have a new look about you, one that others will notice. Several people have already asked me what I’m doing and have commented about how great I look!curves-love-your-new-look

Curves International, Inc. is one of the largest chains of fitness clubs for women. Aside from gaining better fitness, it also enabled me to navigate through my days with more confidence, resilience, and grace. It’s about feeling great every day and building a healthy future. a fitter, healthier, happier me!  Curves is truly a great place to go for more than just a workout, as you can see. There are over 4,000 locations worldwide. To find the closest to you, please go here.

Connect with Curves on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Pixar Fest Set to Open at the Disneyland Resort April 13, 2018

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

We just got one more reason to be excited about spring! I know, I know, winter hasn’t even started yet. The holidays at the Disneyland Resort have yet to even arrive, but now there’s something to be excited about come spring: Pixar Fest at the Disneyland Resort! It’s going to be the biggest Pixar celebration ever to come to Disney Parks and will bring guests together to celebrate friendship and beyond beginning April 13, 2018!pixar-fest-at-the-disneyland-resortThis limited time event will bring some of the beloved stories from Pixar Animation Studios
to life in new ways, at both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Parks,, with characters and experiences from films such as Disney•Pixar’s “Toy Story”, “Monsters, Inc.,” “Finding Nemo” and “Up.” Guests will join the fun as they experience so many new additions in both parks. together-forever-fireworksA new fireworks spectacular – “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular,” will
celebrate Pixar stories through the decades as it lights up the sky over Disneyland,
connecting guests with characters they’ve come to know and love. Along with dazzling
pyrotechnics and memorable music, a heartwarming story celebrates the theme of
friendship, an ever-present concept in Pixar animation. Guests are invited to embark on
an emotional journey that begins with the meeting of unlikely Pixar pals and follows their
adventures as they overcome obstacles and forge everlasting friendships. “Together
Forever” comes to life through projections on iconic park locations: Sleeping Beauty
Castle, the water screens of the Rivers of America, the façade of “it’s a small world” and
the buildings of Main Street, U.S.A. The grand tradition of Tinker Bell flying over
Sleeping Beauty Castle also gets a Pixar twist, with a special flyover by Buzz Lightyear.pixar-fest-play-paradeTwo favorite parades will return to the Resort, both with fresh new Pixar surprises – .  For the first time, “Pixar Play Parade” will make its way through Disneyland Park this spring, and it’s being led by someone new. The parade will begin just as all Pixar films have, with an appearance by Pixar’s iconic lamp from the short film “Luxo Jr.” Other new parade elements will welcome characters from “Up” and “Inside Out.”pixar-fest-play-parade-2Also on April 13, the guest-favorite “Paint the Night” parade returns, and this time the
parade’s 1.5 million, brilliant LED lights and catchy tunes come to Disney California
Adventure. “Paint the Night” features pals from Disney•Pixar’s “Toy Story,” “Monsters,
Inc.” and “Cars.” And another beloved Pixar story will join “Paint the Night” later in the
year, adding to this guest-favorite experience.

During PIxar Fest, guests can admire some new décor brought in for this limited time event. There will also be creatively themed food and beverage throughout the parks, as well as:

  • Exclusive event merchandise – For those who wish to get into character and celebrate friendship, an exclusive Pixar Fest charm bracelet will be part of the merchandise selection. With multiple bracelet options and a variety of charms with fun friendship messages and Pixar characters, guests can mix and match for themselves, or friends and family.
  • A collection of Pixar Shorts – Stop by the Sunset Showcase Theater at Disney California Adventure during most of Pixar Fest, to watch a collection of Pixar Shorts, including favorites such as “For the Birds” and “LAVA.” The short films will rotate during the celebration.
  • A musical troupe– Guests will be entertained with Pixar-inspired performances in the Paradise Gardens area of Disney California Adventure.Opportunities to meet n’ greet Pixar characters – A celebration of friendship this big is only complete with beloved characters like Buzz, Woody and Jessie from “Toy Story,” Mike and Sulley from “Monsters, Inc.,” Nemo and Dory from “Finding Nemo,” and Lighting McQueen and Mater from “Cars.” Those pals – and more – will be part of the fun at Pixar Fest.

Some exciting changes will be added to some of the existing attractions and entertainment in the parks that feature many favorite Pixar characters. Here’s what to expect:
At Disneyland

  • Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters: In this interactive attraction, guests fire lasers to
    help battle Evil Emperor Zurg, who is trying steal the batteries from helpless toys.
  • Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage: Guests take a submarine voyage to explore
    the world of Nemo and his underwater friends.
  • “it’s a small world”: Woody, Jessie and Bullseye from “Toy Story” are among
    the many toys and dolls found in this classic attraction.
  • Character encounters with Pixar pals: Guests can continue to meet Merida
    from “Brave” in Fantasyland and Woody and Jessie from “Toy Story” in
    Frontierland.
  • “Fantasmic!”: Favorite Pixar characters appear in the finale of “Fantasmic!”
    nightly on the Rivers of America.

At Disney California Adventure

  • Cars Land: Guests step into the world of Radiator Springs with three attractions
    plus themed shopping and dining locations across 12 acres.
  • Toy Story Mania!: Guests shrink to the size of toys and take aim at objects to
    score points in 4D midway-inspired carnival games hosted by the characters
    from the “Toy Story” films.
  • “a bug’s land”: Shrinking to the size of a bug, guests experience this story
    through family-friendly attractions.
  • Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!: Guests take a wild taxi ride
    through Monstropolis with Mike and Sulley as they search for their lost human
    friend, Boo.
  • Turtle Talk with Crush: Crush, the sea turtle from “Finding Nemo,” interacts with
    guests in live, real-time, animated conversations.
  • “World of Color”: Characters from “Finding Nemo,” “WALL-E,” “Toy Story,” “Up”
    and “a bug’s life” appear in this nighttime water spectacular which combines
    animation, music, lights and color with more than 1,200 fountains.
  • DJ’s Dance ‘n Drive: Interactive dance party in Cars Land invites guests to
    move to the music.

Spring is looking to be an extra exciting time at the Disneyland Resort. For more information, please visit here.

Tips to Know Before You Go: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party!

I was provided with tickets to attend Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Party in order to write this post. All opinions are 100% my own. 

There’s a first time for everything and this year was our family’s first time attending Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in Magic Kingdom Park! This specially ticketed event only comes around once a year, to celebrate the Halloween season and just like everything else associated with Disney Parks, it’s quite a magical experience!mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-sign-1To be honest, I think I spent half the party looking around at everything in awe,  As the park is transformed for the occasion, frightfully fun décor, grinning ghosts, costumed characters, and extra entertainment pop up all around. There’s just so much to see and do at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Party and it can be overwhelming, in a good way, of course.mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-pumpkins-1I put together a guide of tips to “know before you go” as a way to help future Mickey party-goers get the most out of their experience. Here’s my best advice for what you should see and do when you attend.tips-to-know-before-you-goPurchase your party tickets right away – Dates for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party are announced during the summertime on Walt Disney World Resort’s site and the Disney Parks Blog and usually go on sale soon afterwards. I highly recommend getting your tickets as early as possible because this event is so popular that certain dates tend to sell out right away. There’s nothing worse than being “too late”.monsters-inc-DIY-costumeDO Wear a Costume – There isn’t even a question. DO wear a costume. It doesn’t matter if you’re a kid or an adult. A majority of guests at the party are dressed up and if you don’t wear a costume, you’ll most likely feel a bit left out. I saw so many fun costumes. My favorites were groups of people with coordinating group Disney costumes. We put together simple DIY costumes from Monsters, Inc. because we were traveling and needed to pack our suitcases wisely, but I already know that next year, I’m going to get a little more nuts with our costumes. Actually, I can guarantee it!

Look up the party schedule online beforehand – It’s a good idea to look up the schedule for the party night you’re attending beforehand on the Walt Disney World site to get an idea of the schedule of special entertainment such as the parade and fireworks. mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-guideYou’ll receive a party guide for the evening as you enter at the Main Gate which is helpful to guide you to the treat stations and has other useful information. I just recommend planning a little bit beforehand so you don’t run out of time because there’s a lot to see.

mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-decorations-2Get there during daylight – Guests are able to enter Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party up to 3 hours prior to the event’s official start time of 7p.m. I highly recommend getting there while there’s still daylight, mainly for the photo opportunities. Luckily, the Disney PhotoPass photographers are very experienced and take great pictures even when it’s dark outside. Grab as many photos as you can though, while it’s still light outside. Also, getting to the party early will allow you to maximize your time on the attractions and explore all of the other things.

Speaking of photo opportunities, during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Party, there are party-exclusive Magic Shots throughout the park that you should definitely seek out. I loved this one with the Headless Horseman! .mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-headless-horseman-photopassGet your trick or treat on – Guests can pick up a trick-or-treat bag at any of of the treat stations throughout the park. Locate the treat stops by looking for the super tall, lighted up stations. Expect to leave the party with a ton of candy. Tip: Bring an bag or backpack to the party so you can dump out the trick-or-treat bags as they fill up. mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-candyEat ALL the Halloween treats – It’s always fun to find the exclusive treats and food offerings during the party, only offered this time of year. If you keep an eye on The Disney Parks Blog before your party date, they usually share about these treats so you’ll know what to look for. Check out this fun post on the Disney Parks Blog featuring Top Halloween Treats at Magic Kingdom Park. (Tip: Seek out the collectible popcorn bucket and get one!)mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-popcorn-bucketSeek out the characters and take photos – During Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, there are a plethora of photo opportunities with more Disney characters and Disney Villains than you can imagine! Even more fun is that you’ll find these characters dressed up in their own Halloween costumes. mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-pooh-and-friendsThe party is your chance to grab photos with the characters without waiting in lines that are very long. PhotoPass photos are available to download and share almost instantly through the My Disney Experience mobile app when you add Memory Maker to your vacation package and/or party ticket. (Read more info about Memory Maker here.) 
Take in a show – One of the exclusive offerings during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular show. You’ll be dazzled by this stage performance as the 3 sisters from Disney’s “Hocus Pocus”use their magic to throw the best, evil Halloween party this side of the graveyard.mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-castleDon’t miss the Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade (& Beware of the Headless Horseman) – There are 2 performances of this special Halloween-themed parade, each night of a party. See Disney characters as well as the stars of the Haunted Mansion. Each parade starts with a spooktacular ride by The Headless Horseman so beware!Happy HalloWishes Fireworks are a must! – There are so many great spots in Magic Kingdom Park where guests can go to watch the Happy HalloWishes fireworks.mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-ground-projectionsCheck out the special souvenirs and merchandise – Special souvenirs and exclusive merchandise are also available during the party and you’ll want to save some time to check out the shops along Main Street, U.S.A.mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-selfie

We had so much fun at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party this year. It was such an enchanting experience. I wish we could go back for a second night this year. There’s always next year, right?mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-us-with-pooh-and-friends

Have you been before? Share your favorite memory with me in the comments. If you’ve never been, perhaps you should look into making a special trip next Halloween season!

 

 

6 Necessities for the Baddest Moms Night Out EVER! #BadMomsXmas

This is an Evite paid post. All opinions are my own. 

Ever since I first caught wind of A Bad Moms Christmas trailer, I’ve been giddy! It’s like Christmas is coming early for me this year since it’ll be in theaters on November 1, 2017!  bad-moms-xmas-posterThe first film, Bad Moms, gave me an excuse to let loose with the girls, but I must admit…. I haven’t been out for any kind of “girl time” since then. I’m literally doing a happy dance right now because, come November 1st, I’ll have an excuse to get out with the girls!

a-bad-moms-christmas-2Can you tell I rarely get out? Before we go any further, if you haven’t watched the trailer for “A Bad Moms Christmas” yet, please do:

Here’s the story:
A Bad Moms Christmas follows 3 under-appreciated and over-burdened women as they rebel against the challenges and expectations of the Super Bowl for moms: Christmas. As if creating a more perfect holiday for their families wasn’t hard enough, they have to do all of that while hosting and entertaining their own mothers. By the end of the journey, the moms will redefine how to make the holidays special for all and discover a closer relationship with their mothers.

Bad-moms-evite-4I didn’t hesitate to call up a bunch of my funnest (and maybe craziest) girlfriends to start planning the Baddest Moms Night Out EVER! It was so easy to plan it with Evite™, which make helps make getting together effortless and more memorable. In this case “memorable” is more like kick-ass! Excuse my French, I just think an epic movie like this requires a crazy-good Moms Night Out though! How perfect is this Evite™ invitation I chose to send all my friends?

the-baddest-moms-night-out-everI put together a list of 6 Necessities for the Baddest Moms Night Out EVER! 

  • A babysitter (or hubby who’ll be home with the kids ) – First, and foremost, you’re not going to get anywhere without a sitter. Whether you have to hire one or you have a husband who will hang at home with the kids while you go out, find someone reliable and BOOK THEM NOW! Pay them double if you must (I’m referring to a sitter, not your hubby!)! Just make sure you don’t miss out on this!
  • A group of fun girlfriends – Call them, email them, text them, do whatever you can to gather your “Mom Squad” and get them committed.
  • The perfect Evite™ – Have you seen the Evite™collection created especially for “A Bad Moms Christmas”? Evite™ is always the easiest way to bring friends and family together for any event. Which one of these is your fav?
  • Your pre-purchased tickets to see “A Bad Moms Christmas” – Gone are the days of standing in line for hours, or even camping out, before a blockbuster film opens in the theaters! It’s so convenient to be able to purchase your show tickets online and have that peace of mind that you’re already “in” for whichever show your aiming for. Then you can concentrate on pre-partying! (since that IS what a Bad Moms Night Out is all about!) You can pre-purchase your tickets to see “A Bad Moms Christmas, here.
  • An amazing outfit – It’s time to either break out that killer outfit that’s already in your closet or else time to go shopping for a new one that has “Bad Mom” written all over it! I’m not saying you have to go so far as to shave your legs for the occasion, although you may want to, but A Baddest Moms Night Out EVER is not the time to sport your “Mom Jeans”, so leave those at home!
  • Wine! – Whether you’re planning on having some libations and pre-partying at your home or going out to an establishment, you’re going to need wine! And LOTS of it! If you’re not a wine drinker, then substitute it for something else! For someone like me, a mom who rarely gets out of the house, the wine is a definite necessity!

I’m so excited for my upcoming night out with the girls, especially getting out to see “A Bad Moms Christmas”! Have you planned your fun night out yet? Halloween season is practically over and thus begins the other holiday season. Why not plan your own BAD MOMS NIGHT OUT with the girls and Evite and give yourselves the gift that keeps on giving? Find all of the fun designs for “A Bad Moms Christmas” on http://www.evite.com or even on the Evite app.a-bad-moms-xmas-evite-mobile

Enjoy before you give joy this holiday season! If being A “Bad Mom” is wrong, then baby I don’t EVER wanna be right! Don’t forget to grab your tickets today!

Some images and trailer are property of Evite and/or STX Entertainment and used with permission. 

 

 

New Hotel Coming To Disneyland Resort in 2021 + Parking and Transportation Improvements

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

There was a very exciting announcement on the Disney Parks Blog yesterday and I’m giddy to share it with you! With the ongoing expansion and growth of the Disneyland Resort, they announced that for the first time in almost two decades, they’ll be opening a new Four Diamond hotel! The new hotel is set to open in 2021 and will transform the west end of the Downtown Disney District and anchor a new gateway to the Disneyland Resort. This rendering of what it will look like is amazing! new-hotel-disneyland-resort-1The 700-room hotel will feature a sophisticated design and be something never-before-seen for Anaheim. It’ll offer dynamic dining and entertainment options and a hotel experience for both resort visitors and local residents. Extensive landscaping and water elements will create a resort oasis, showcasing nature on every level of the hotel. The hotel’s location embraces the iconic Disneyland Monorail with a dedicated platform inside the hotel for direct transport into Disneyland park. Having the monorail stop inside of the hotel is such a great part about this addition and reminds me of when we stayed at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World! (Have you been there before?) new-hotel-disneyland-resort-2The guest rooms, public spaces and gardens at the new hotel will provide views of the Downtown Disney District. The addition of an upper-level restaurant and lounge will give guests a view of the spectacular nightly fireworks in Disneyland Park. The ground level of the hotel will include shops and restaurants, opening onto an expansive landscaped plaza, and complete with playful water features, creating a gathering place for guests and visitors. The new hotel will connect all four Hotels of the Disneyland Resort through lush gardens and beautifully landscaped walkways, transforming the gateway on the west side and creating a welcoming entry for our Disneyland Resort guests.

Parking and Transportation Improvements Coming to Disneyland Resort 
The Disneyland Resort will also be upgrading and improving parking and transportation as they add new parking and transportation enhancements. The centerpiece of their plans to expand includes an all-new, 6500-space parking structure to be built on the current Pinocchio surface parking lot next to Mickey & Friends. The new structure is designed to dramatically improve parking and traffic flow throughout the resort. It is expected to significantly speed up guest arrival by providing a 60 percent increase in the number of access lanes and adding additional parking capacity on the west side of the resort.disneyland-resort-new-parking-and-transportationThe additional parking capacity and access lanes will streamline vehicle arrivals on the west side of the resort and eliminate backups onto city streets. In addition, the tram boarding area will be reconfigured to enhance the transportation experience for guests parking at both the new structure and Mickey & Friends. Construction is scheduled to begin in February 2018, with the structure set to open the following year.

There’s always something new and exciting coming to Disneyland Resort and as usual, I can’t wait!

Renderings are property of Disney Parks. 

 

 

Spooky Science Exhibit at Discovery Cube Orange County Through October 31

I was invited to a media preview in order to write this post. All opinions are my own.

Calling all ghouls and goblins, this year’s Spooky Science is hosting the Monster Academy at Discovery Cube Orange County, where students will learn hair-raising science lessons from some of the world’s most famous monsters. discovery-cube-OC-spooky-science-logoThe Monster Academy features a “day-scare” learning center designed exclusively for teaching junior monsters what it takes for school success. Activities focus on creative play, shapes and colors as part of an Early Learning Core Initiative and electricity, chemistry, and optical illusions as part of a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Proficiency Core Initiative.spooky-science-exhibit-contributorMy contributor spent a very special evening at Discovery Cube Orange County with some other “young monsters”, participating in the Monster Academy. Some of the activities to explore during your visit include:

  • Frankenstein’s laboratory where you’re sure to spark amazement with his new Van de Graaff generator!
  • A station where you get to make your very own slime.
  • The Monster Academy Talent Show where each “monster” will showcase their hidden science talents!

spooky-science-exhibit-slime-1All of the “Spooky Science” activities will be available through October 31 and are included in the price of regular admission. For more information or to purchase your tickets online, please visit http://www.discoverycube.org.spooky-science-exhibit-1Connect with Discovery Cube OC on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Logo is property of Discovery Cube OC and used with permission. 

 

{Giveaway} Score Big With Islands’ NFL Happy Hour + Enter to Win

Have you heard about Islands NFL Happy Hour? It kicked off at the start of the NFL Season last month offering an extended happy hour from 4 p.m. to close in the bar area every Monday and Thursday. Guests can also enjoy the happy hour menu, which is available right now, all day Sunday, too.islands-restaurants-nhl-happy-hour-facadeDuring NFL Happy Hour, everything offered on the happy hour menu is under $10., including loaded Island Nachos ($7.99), Sliders ($4.99), Big Island Iced Tea ($5.95) and Coors Light ($2.99).
islands-mai-taiEach location also has multiple big screen TVs playing NFL RedZone and NFL Sunday Ticket, and each restaurant features bartender-call-it specials/trivia games for chances to win gift cards and swag.islands-spinach-and-artichoke-dipWe stopped by our local Islands to join in all the fun NFL Happy Hour offers. It’s always a great time at Islands, especially when we get to enjoy some of our favorite appetizers such as the Spinach & Artichoke Dip and the Cheese Fries.islands-cheese-friesOur family also just loves dining at Islands for their regular food too. Whether it’s a salad, a wrap, a burger, a BLT, or even something off their Gremmie Menu, there’s something for everyone in your party on their menu.islands-restaurant-the-wedge-blt

islands-kids-menuOh and of course, there’s always room for dessert! Specifically, Kona Pie! Have you had one before? They’re HUGE and plenty to share with your family! islands-restaurants-nhl-happy-hour-kona-pieI’m hosting a giveaway on my Facebook page right now for one (1) of my lucky readers to win a $25 Islands gift card, so they can go in and enjoy NFL Happy Hour (or anything on the menu.) To enter, go here and leave a comment telling me your favorite Islands menu item. The giveaway will be open until 11:59 p.m. on October 28, 2017. One winner will be chosen via Random Number Generator and winner will be contacted via email. Giveaway is open to U.S. residents only, ages 18 years and older. Islands Restaurants are located in CA, AZ, NV, and HI. The giveaway is in no way affiliated with Facebook. islands-restaurants-nhl-happy-hour-yaki-tacosSo, what’s your favorite thing to eat at Islands Restaurant? Leave a comment below and share with me.

Connect with Islands on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.