Over The Top Mommy

Let’s Get This Summer Started With SNICKERS® Ice Cream Bars & Summer Bucket List Journals!

June 5, 2015 / Crafts & DIY, Food, Let's Eat!

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #ShareFunshine #CollectiveBias

I am so ecstatic for the arrival of summer! A few of my most favorite things about summer include wearing flip flops every day, watching summer sunsets, and most of all, slowing down the pace of life to be able to focus on creating new family memories. We just have so much more time to do things that don’t have a place in our lives during the regular school year.

Our first stop on the way home after the first day of school was at the park. My daughter LOVES to go to the little park by our house. Since it was a pretty warm day, I surprised her by bringing some SNICKERS® Ice Cream Bars in the cooler for us to enjoy while we were there.

We spent about an hour there and enjoyed our ice cream on the swings. The frozen version of this delicious candy bar is yummy and a definite summer “must-have”! Sitting there with my daughter, putting our feet in the sand, made me realize how important it is to enjoy this time together and try to hang onto these childhood years of hers for as long as possible.

My daughter and I have this annual tradition of creating a “Summer Bucket List” together. It’s like our summer goal-setting session. Our time at the park got me thinking that this year, since she’s getting older, we should do something a little bit different for our “Summer Bucket List”. Instead of just making a list, I thought it would be more age-appropriate to have her keep a “Summer Bucket List” Journal instead. I also wanted to make the occasion more of a party and include some of her friends. What better reason to celebrate the beginning of summer, right?

I ran to Walmart and bought everything we needed for our little get-together, including more of the Snickers Ice Cream Bars (I told you we loved them!), M&M’s® (Plain and Peanut), Skittles®, and Starburst® Minis Unwrapped. I found them on the novelty ice cream and candy aisles, in the grocery section.

The M&M’s® were also on an endcap. Right now you can also enter Walmart’s Share a Little Funshine Sweepstakes daily by clicking here. All of these party items are so easy to just set out on a tray so the girls can snack while they make their “Summer Bucket List” journals.

Since my daughter and her friends are going into 5th grade next year, I figured this would be a great way to document their summer in a more detailed way, with some writing and illustrations or even photos on each page. It’s always good to jot down a list of things you’re hoping to do in the summer, even trying to pick some that you haven’t done before. I took 9 of our bucket list items and made them into little printable flags that can be glued into the pages of the journal. (You’ll be able to download these a little further down, as well as a set of plain flags that can be written on.)

(1) Journal or composition book for each person (I found really cute ones with designs on the covers)
printable “Summer Bucket List” flags (I print on cardstock)
washi tape in a variety of colors and patterns
glue sticks and a hot glue gun (for use by an adult)
regular tape
colorful buttons and adhesive rhinestones
permanent markers in different colors
scissors

This year I found journals with different prints on them. You can also cover a traditional composition book with scrapbook paper. (not shown)
Cut out both printed and plain flags.
Write a “Summer Bucket List” item on each plain flag.
Using a glue stick, put on flag on each page of the journal. (You can either do this all up front or as you complete each item throughout summer)
Write about each wonderful event in the journal to preserve the memory. You can also illustrate or insert a photo of the activity, on each page.
For the cover of the journal, you can either leave it plain or decorate it. I set out washi tape, buttons, adhesive rhinestones, etc. for the girls to decorate their covers but it’s up to you.

As I mentioned earlier, I’ve made the “Summer Bucket List” flags in both printed and plain versions that you can download to make your own journals. I highly recommend printing them on cardstock. It just holds up better.

This is where you can download the printedflags and the plainflags to use with your own journals!

Look how cute her cover turned out! I helped glue on the buttons with my hot glue gun. I also love her first journal entry of the summer. We just printed out a picture to go with it and glued it on the page. I cannot wait to read my daughter’s journal at the end of summer. I just know it’s going to be filled with a lot of fun memories. For now, I’m ready to get this summer started though!

Do YOU have any special beginning-of-summer traditions with your child(ren)? What are YOUR big plans for the summer?

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Say Hello to Rubio’s Coastal Grill…Formerly Known as Rubio’s Mexican Grill!

June 4, 2015 / Food, Let's Eat!, Restaurant Reviews

When I think about Rubio’s®, I always think of fish tacos! It was the first place I tried a fish taco back in the day and I’ve been hooked ever since! In addition to its signature dish, The Original Fish Taco, this popular chain which has locations in California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, and Colorado, is known for its uniquely delicious coastal cuisine. Have you seen their new name yet? It’s now called Rubio’s Coastal Grill! I love it! Inside the restaurant, you’ll still find the same great Mexican cuisine, but with a lot more delicious options added to the menu and a new look added to many of the stores.

Throughout the month of May, several of Orange County’s locations re-opened to guests as Rubio’s Coastal Grill, after undergoing a redesigned transformation! The redesign of 45 of their California-based restaurants reflect the brand’s evolution and culinary progression. Some of the first locations to undergo this transformation already include:

Laguna Niguel
San Clemente
Rancho Santa Margarita
Foothill Ranch

Would you believe me if I told you that I frequent 4 out of 5 of the locations listed above? If the 5th location was closer to me, I’d go to that one too! Rubio’s has plans to expand to other areas within the county in the near future as well.

I recently had the opportunity to dine in one of the newly re-opened locations with Mr. Ralph Rubio. We sipped on Sangria and munched on some of their delicious chips and guacamole during introductions. Their guacamole is amazing and I’m pretty sure it’s because they insist on only using Haas avocados in their restaurants.

Mr. Rubio talked about the concept behind the new look. He also talked about how the restaurant design draws inspiration from the sea and features elements and aesthetics reminiscent of the brand’s beach heritage. There are hues of cobalt, green, indigo and sand sparkle throughout the restaurants and patios with shimmering blue tiles that guide guests to Rubio’s signature salsa bar. The salsa bar is one of the best parts because everything on it is always so fresh!

Mr. Rubio had the staff bring each of us attendees an order of Tostadas Frescas to start with. These are one of the limited time offerings on the new menu. I had one shrimp and one chicken and just looking at this picture of lime getting squeezed onto them, makes me want to go back and do it all over again. Limes just make everything taste even better.

The shells used for the Tostadas Frescas are freshly prepared and you can tell just by tasting them. I couldn’t decide if the shrimp or the chicken were my favorite one? They were both delicious and I can’t wait to return to try a beef one, as well as one with grilled veggies.

Did you know that Rubio’s uses sustainable seafood in nearly all of its seafood dishes and continues to expand its menu with innovative recipes ranging from sustainable shrimp to Atlantic salmon? This Regal Springs Tilapia taco was so delicious and I could taste how fresh the fish was. I also got to try a Grilled Gourmet Taco with Shrimp! How have I never had one of those before? It’s seriously in a category of its own!

In addition to seafood, Rubio’s also offers crisp fresh salads, grilled marinated chicken and steak, “no-fried” pinto beans, handmade guacamole, a variety of proprietary salsas, and craft beer and sangria to complement any meal. Now here comes another new feature at Rubio’s Coastal Grill….dessert! I know we’re all aware of the churros because we go there specifically for their Cinnamon Churros but now there are also a variety of more gourmet desserts being offered! And they’re featured a beautiful dessert case in the front of the store!

Mr. Rubio must’ve known my weakness for desserts because he had ALL of them brought to our table to sample! There were Caramel Chocolate Ganache Brownies, Limon Coconut Bars, and Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies. They tasted as good as they look, too!

I’m really excited about the new look of Rubio’s Coastal Grill but I’m even MORE excited about the newest menu items. As a busy mom, who’s often on the go, I’m always grateful for take out options that are healthy both for myself and my daughter. Rubio’s is somewhere I can go and always feel good about getting quality food for us.

In honor of Rubio’s recent transformation, I’m hosting a giveaway. Rubio’s has provided me with 6 cards that are each valid for a complimentary entree. I’m going to pick one lucky reader to win all 6. Just enter below in the Rafflecopter and be sure to read the directions carefully. Good luck everyone!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Stay up-to-date about Rubio’s happenings, events and more by visiting Rubio’s on Facebook and Twitter.

Disclosure: I was invited to attend a media dinner and provided with dinner in order to write my post. No other monetary compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.

See What’s New at Knott’s This Summer! #KnottsIronReef #NewAtKnotts

June 2, 2015 / Knott's, Orange County, SoCal Fun

The opinions in this article are 100% my own. I do not work for, or with, any brand mentioned in this article, nor do I have any official relationship with them. I have a relationship with GigaSavvy, for whom I create original editorial content.

Summertime is my favorite time of year! (Although it’s hard to really ever complain about the Southern California weather here) I love the relaxed feeling of summer, especially the slower pace of life since I’m off work (I teach school). Summer is when I get to enjoy extra time with my family! One of our favorite things to do together is go to Knott’s! We can’t get enough of the attractions, the food, and all the entertainment.

If you haven’t already heard, one of the biggest things to hit Knott’s this summer is the opening of the latest attraction, Voyage to the Iron Reef™! This brand-new attraction opened on May 15, 2015 and is a spectacular, interactive 4-D ride for the entire family.

Inside the attraction, you’ll help save Knott’s from mysterious creatures emerging from the seas beneath the Boardwalk in a cutting edge media-based battle. Through enchanting underwater forests, disorienting ocean current tunnels, and mysterious mechanical wreckage, high definition 3-D animation will surround guests at every turn.

Take a look at the action inside the Iron Reef:
Not only am I am anxious to get to Knott’s this summer to go on my own Voyage to the Iron Reef™, but there are also 2 new exciting shows to see! I love the shows at Knott’s! The first new show features some of my childhood favorites, The Peanuts Gang. Watch Snoopy and his friends appear in the newest production to hit the Charles M. Schultz Theatre, Blockbuster Beagle!…on ice.

You can join Snoopy and his Peanuts buddies “go Hollywood” bringing Walk of Fame glamour, dazzling movie lot escapades and California excitement to a brand new ice show adventure. Join Snoopy and our World-class ice skating stars at the Charles M. Schulz Theatre for this amazing new production! Blockbuster Beagle!…on ice runs June 13 – August 23 and is dark on Wednesdays.

The second new show at Knott’s this summer is the Vertical Impact & Vertical Impact Geared Up Show. This show is guaranteed to have you on the edge of your seat as you witness the ultimate blend of extreme stunts with high flying acrobats performing a one of a kind performance perfect for the entire family! The fun continues after dark with Vertical Impact, Geared Up! This high energy show is set to the most popular songs of today, combining everything from trampoline stunts, bmx bikes, skaters, dancers, and aerialists. Every show ends with an informal meet & greet for the guests with the entire cast on stage. The cast pumps up the volume with the latest hits, the biggest tricks and awesome special effects. The pace is intensified, the stunts are electrified, and the cast is breaking down the walls, defying gravity, and taking it all to the next level. Watch the show for the amazing aerial acrobatics, and crazy trampoline & vertical wall stunts, then stay for the after party and be a part of the show! Our own “DJ Nytemadness” will keep the party going mixing all the best of current EDM, dance & pop hits after each show while the cast joins the guests of all ages to dance, party, take selfies, and just be a part of it all. The show runs June 13 – August 23 and is dark on Mondays & Tuesdays.

In addition to these 2 brand-new shows at Knott’s this summer, there’s a TON of other entertainment going on at the park this summer too. This is where I feel like I should stop and talk about Knott’s Season Passes because there is WAY more than one day’s worth of fun to take in at Knott’s. You’re going to want to come back to Knott’s (and Knott’s Soak City Water Park) a bunch of times! Especially during the summertime!

Do you know how awesome a Knott’s Season Pass is? Not only is it the most affordable ticket in town, Knott’s also offers the option of payments to make it even more do-able for your family. The passes pay for themselves within a few visits too.

Knott’s offers the following variations of their Regular Season Pass:

You can also upgrade to a Gold Season Pass! The Gold Season Pass allows you to enjoy all the cool waterslides and fun in the sun at Knott’s Soak City Water Park, in addition to all the thrilling rides at Knott’s Berry Farm! The Gold Season Pass pays for itself in less than 2 visits!

Charlie Brown’s Happy Campers – Camp Snoopy Theatre: Join Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy and the world’s most popular beagle, Snoopy in a show that’s sure to make an outdoorsman out of anybody! The show runs daily from June 14 through September 1.

Big Band Swingin’ Sundays: Jump, Jive & Swing to the sounds of Orange County’s best local Big Bands. Catch them on Sunday evenings from June14 – August 30.

Boardwalk Dance Party – Boardwalk Circle Stage: Dance ‘til you drop and wave your hands in the air until you just don’t care with DJ Howly, one of Orange County’s most requested “mixers & spinners”. Catch the Boardwalk Dance Party on Monday & Tuesday evenings from June 15 – August 25. (Plus September 7)

Ghost Town Streetmosphere: Ghost Town is alive with townsfolk who will put you smack dab in the middle of the Wild West. New residents have put down stakes recently… Clem Culpepper, the ever hopeful gold miner, Ma & Pa Shine, our resident moonshiners & Nathan Quickly, the Pony Express Agent. And as you mosey on through Ghost Town, say “Howdy” to returning favorites, Dusty Trail, who’s never without her six-shooter, Miss Ruby, the purtiest Saloon Gal in town, Miss Apple the School Teacher, and the rest of the Calico townsfolk. The Ghost Town Streetmosphere runs daily from June 13 – September 7.

Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies – Birdcage Theatre: Things get krazy when Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies perform their toe tappin’, knee-slappin’, side splittin’ country comedy show that has Knott’s audiences clamoring for more! It’s the perfectly krazy way to spend some time at Knott’s Berry Farm! Come out to watch Fridays through Mondays from June 13 – August 23. (except 6/19 and 8/6 & 29)

Salsa Bands – Fiesta Plaza Stage: Nothing says a party at the Fiesta Plaza stage better than the energy created by some of Orange County’s most popular salsa bands. Enjoy the salsa bands on Friday, Saturday & Sunday evenings from June 13 through August 23, Plus August 29, 30 and September 5, 6, & 7.

The Ghost Town Miners – Spurs Stage: For a “Yeehaw” of a good time you won’t want to miss the Ghost Town Miners sing and play some of the best bluegrass this side of the Rio Grande! The show runs Tuesday through Thursday from June 16 – August 20.

The Marshal Purdy Show – Birdcage Theatre: Come on in for some old fashioned, homespun fun that’s sure to tickle your fancy and bust your gut on Tuesday & Wednesday from June 17 – August 21.

The Big Fat Steve Band – Boardwalk Circle Stage: Back by popular demand, The Big Fat Steve Band-The Kings of Kool is a fun, exciting dance band with a swingin’ beat. Enjoy the live musicality of rockabilly, swing and classic sounds. The only thing missing is your dance moves. Come on out Wednesday through Saturday from June 13 – August 29 Plus September 5 & 6.

The Peanuts Gang – Camp Snoopy: Meet and hug one of your favorite Peanuts characters!
Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy, Sally, Schroeder, Franklin, Woodstock, or Peppermint Patty. The characters are available in the park year round and vary daily. Calico Saloon Cancan Show – Calico Saloon: What’s a Saloon without a show? Don’t miss the Calico Saloon Show for some good old’ fashioned bar room fun. We heard that the dancin’ girls even perform that new fandangled dance from Paree, France, the Cancan! You might even want to cool off with a tall cool bottle of the hard stuff…Sarsaparilla! Enjoy the Calico Saloon Cancan Show daily from June 13 – September 30, Plus September 5 – 7.

Fool’s Gold Stunt Show – Wagon Camp: Will the bad guys manage to re route and steal the gold? Find out in this rowdy, comical, western stunt show presented on Knott’s legendary Wagon Camp stage. Watch the show year round.

Indian Trails: You won’t want to miss the beautiful music, authentic costumes and historically rich traditions presented at the Indian Trails Stage. The Indian Trails are presented Thursday through Monday on a year round schedule.

Mystery Lodge: Sit back and let this award winning, one of a kind attraction mesmerize you as our Native American Storyteller shares stories of his rich history and culture. The special effects of Mystery Lodge will amaze you daily, and is open year round.

So, raise your hand if YOU’RE ready for some summer fun at Knott’s? I know you can’t see me right now, but I”m raising mine! Hope to see you in the park this summer!

Connect with Knott’s on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

McFarland USA on Disney Blu-ray®, Disney Movies Anywhere, and Digital HD June 2! (I’m Having a Giveaway!)

May 29, 2015 / Disney DVDs, Entertainment, Movies

Are you ready to discover your inner champion? McFarland USA is coming out June 2 on Disney Blu-ray, Disney Movies Anywhere, and Digital HD. If you didn’t have the chance to see this feel-good film in theaters, it’s not a movie you want to miss. Soon you’ll be able to watch it at home!

Here’s a synopsis of the film:

In the tradition of Disney sports movies comes “McFarland, USA” based on a true story of underdogs triumphing over tremendous obstacles. This heartwarming drama follows novice runners who strive to build a cross-country team under Coach Jim White (Kevin Costner) in their predominantly Latino high school. Everyone has a lot to learn about each other, but when Coach realizes the boys’ exceptional running ability, things change. Beyond their talent, it’s the power of family, commitment to each other and work ethic that transform them into champions — helping them achieve their own American dream.

Now watch the official trailer:

Look at this simple, yummy recipe to make authentic corn tamales. Why not spend a night in with your friends or family, make some tamales and watch McFarland USA on your TV or even on your electronic device? Sounds fun to me! And I LOVE tamales!

I’m also giving away 1 gift card to one of my lucky readers which will be good for a download of McFarland USA on your own device. First you’ll just download a Disney App and then the movie will be downloaded to your device To enter, just leave a comment below telling me if you’ve seen McFarland USA yet or not? (Giveaway will end at 11:50 p.m. on June 9 and I’ll choose a random winner on June 10th. Must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US to enter.)

Good luck everyone! Now go leave a comment so you can be entered to win!

Follow McFarland USA on Facebook & Google+.

Open a 529 College Savings Plan For Your Child on ScholarShare’s National 529 Day! (5/29) If You Start It, They’ll Match It!

May 28, 2015 / Lifestyle, Motherhood

The other day, my daughter asked if we could go to the park “just for 5 minutes“? I had a ton of things to do and I almost immediately responded with a “not right now“. Then I stopped and thought about something…If she asks to go to the park, I should say “yes” because for all I know, it could be the last time she’ll ask. (*insert lump in throat).

She’s not getting any smaller and just turned 10! How did that happen? It seems like yesterday I was just rocking her to sleep every night in her nursery! Time goes by THAT fast! Before I know it, she’ll be 17 and applying to colleges! Planning for your child’s future is something you can never start too soon, specifically their college career. To some, it may seem silly to think about planning so many years ahead for college, but the cost of college nowadays is no joke! The costs associated with attending college can be overwhelming on a family and student loans are definitely not something a recent college graduate wants to have follow them! Just look at the scary statistic about student loan debt on ScholarShare‘s image below! Yikes!

ScholarShare’s 529 College Savings Plan was created for the exact reason of helping alleviate some of these burdens of carrying debt for college students. If you haven’t heard of ScholarShare before, it’s California’s own 529 College Savings Plan. This state-sponsored program is a tax-advantaged investment, designed to help and encourage families to save for future qualified higher education expenses. The sooner you start saving, the more time it will have to grow. ScholarShare has no annual account management fee, no income limit and offers a high maximum account balance.

Here are a few additional facts about ScholarShare 529 Program:

Any U.S. citizen, or resident alien with a valid Social Security Number or Taxpayer Identification Number, can open a new account- For as little as a $25 monthly contribution,
Anyone can contribute to a 529 account- Through ScholarShare’s “Give a Gift” option, family members, such as parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and even friends, can make a gift contribution to an existing account. When they are looking to give a special gift to your child, why not suggest they contribute towards their 529 account?Did you know family members can even open a new account in your child’s name and contribute towards it over the years?
A ScholarShare 529 account has tax advantages- ScholarShare offers a diverse set of investment options and provides tax-deferred growth and withdrawals free from state and federal taxes when the funds are used for qualified higher education expenses. (such as tuition and fees, books or even certain room and board costs)

On May 29 (5/29), ScholarShare is having a 529 Day Matching Promotion, “You Start It, We Match It.” In celebration of National 529 Day, if you open a ScholarShare 529 College Savings Account on Friday, May 29, 2015 from 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. PT, ScholarShare will match $50 of the initial deposit, which means your account will now start with $100 balance! If you don’t already have a ScholarShare 529 Account, this is the perfect day to start an account for your child(ren).

In order to be eligible for this matching promotion, you’ll need to:

Open a new ScholarShare College Savings Plan with an initial deposit of at least $50 (to be contributed and invested at the time the new account is opened.)
Enroll in the automatic contribution plan (ACP) for the new account with at least a $25 contribution per month.
The terms of this promotion also state that the initial deposit be made on Friday, May 29, 2015 between 12:01 a.m. to 11;59 p.m. PT.

Like I said before, time isn’t slowing down but rather, it’s doing the opposite. Starting a ScholarShare 529 College is so easy and you can even create your account online here. Then you can watch your initial $50 deposit transform into $100! That sounds like an opportunity that should not be passed up!

For more information about ScholarShare, click here. Connect with ScholarShare on Facebook and Twitter.

This is a sponsored post on behalf of ScholarShare for which I received compensation. All opinions are 100% my own.

LEGO Friends Heartlake City Is Now Open at LEGOLAND California Resort and It’s Adorable!

May 23, 2015 / SoCal Fun, Travel

Have you heard the exciting news? LEGO Friends Heartlake City is now open at LEGOLAND California Resort! The newest area at the resort is a must-see for all LEGO fans of all ages! As soon as you walk through the entrance to the city brought to life straight out of the “LEGO Friends” TV show, you can meet your favorite LEGO friends, Mia, Olivia, Andrea, Stephanie and Emma and get a glimpse inside of their LEGO lives!

Throughout Heartlake City there are several clever LEGO brick creations and life-sized figures of each of the LEGO friends. There are lots of great photo opportunities there.

Mia’s Riding Camp: Guests can experience an adventure on a carousel that’s perfect for riders of all ages and heights. Take a horseback ride atop one of 60 carousel horses (both moving and non-moving. Guests can also opt to sit inside one of the stationary jeeps on the carousel.
Heartlake Stables: Inside of this shaded stable area, guests can enjoy LEGO brick building activities and learn a little bit about horses. There’s plenty of seating here for adults to rest their legs while watching their little ones play. You’ll also want to take advantage of the cute photo opportunity to sit on one of the horses in the front area of the stable! (As a convenience, your photos are available for purchase inside the park)
Heartlake Fountain: This heart-shaped fountain is a focal point in the center of the city. Guests are welcome to play in the water, which is especially perfect on warm days. If you plan to have “splash time” on your visit, you might want to bring an extra change of clothes.
Friends Forever Stage: Mia, Olivia, Andrea, Stephanie and Emma perform their “LEGO Friends to the Rescue” show live on stage. Guests can sing and dance along with them. There are also opportunities to meet the LEGO Friends sometimes, if you hang around after the show. To check for showtimes, click here.
Heartlake City Boutique: Guests can shop til they drop here for LEGO Friends toys and a bunch of adorable items. Once you head into this boutique, I can guarantee you won’t come out empty handed! You’ll also find the LEGO Friends Hot Air Balloon in the center of the store.
The LEGO Movie Experience: Experience a bit of movie magic as you get a behind-the-scenes look at a real movie set! Step onto the LEGO Movie soundstage, check out movie footage and explore some of the awesome models which helped inspire the new and completely original 3D animated adventure THE LEGO MOVIE. You can even find characters from the LEGO Movie to take pictures with!

City Park Crêperie: Enjoy sweet, delicious crêpes at this pop-up crêperie located in the center of Heartlake City. The menu features a sugar crêpe, a Nutella crêpe, a Nutella & bananas crêpe, and a berries crêpe. We tried a Nutella crêpe this time but need to go back soon and try a different one. What a treat!
Wok n’ Bowl Ramen: This gourmet Japanese style Ramen House features freshly prepared stir-fry dishes such as orange chicken and teriyaki and ramen noodles with pork belly, chicken, or vegetables. Kids meals are also offered here.

We had such a fun day visiting Heartlake City! When I asked my daughter what her favorite part about the day was, she told me it was getting to talk to Stephanie and Emma and seeing them perform on stage with the other LEGO Friends.

My heart melts when I see her so happy. She also asked if we could return to LEGOLAND tomorrow. For me, it’s all about spending time together and creating new memories. In LEGO Friends Heartlake City there’s the opportunity to do just that!

For more information and to purchase tickets to LEGOLAND California Resort, click here. *Heartlake City is included in the cost of admission to LEGOLAND California Resort. Connect with LEGOLAND California on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.

A very special thank you to LEGOLAND California for inviting us to attend a special media day in the park and providing us with lunch. All opinions are 100% my own.

Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour For Birthday Celebrations: A Family Tradition Passed Down From My Own Childhood

May 21, 2015 / Family Fun, Food, Let's Eat!, Orange County, The Shops at Mission Viejo

I have very fond memories of visiting Farrell’s as a child with my family. It was mostly on special occasions like mine or my brother’s birthdays, but we did get to go there on other occasions as well! Going to Farrell’s for our birthdays was something we’d look forward to every year. It was the original Farrell’s children’s menu that’s responsible for my love of Peanut Butter and Banana sandwiches! Yep, the original Farrell’s had them on the kids menu and they were my fav! (I wish we had digital cameras back then so I would have pictures of it all to post now!)

Over the past few decades, Farrell’s has gone through some restructuring. At one point, they only had one location anywhere near me. Imagine my excitement when I started to hear about new locations opening up in California over the past few years! I hopped on the chance to be able to create an annual Farrell’s birthday tradition with my own daughter that was similar to what I enjoyed doing as a little girl. Did I mention we have a Farrell’s location within 5 minutes of our home? How lucky is that?

After having a super 9th birthday celebration at our local Farrell’s last year, my daughter couldn’t wait to get there again this year for her 10th birthday celebration! I don’t think we ever get tired of the ambiance in there.

The kids keep pretty busy with the fun Junior Zookeepers menu. Even at 10 years old, they’re still into it. The offerings on their menu are items that they actually enjoy and want to order. They’re also generous portions. Nothing beats a good old-fashioned grilled cheese!

Did you know that Farrell’s offers gluten-free options for guests and also has a nut allergy menu? I think that’s really important. It allows guests who might not be able to dine out of their own home normally, because of food allergies, to have options and the freedom to eat out in a restaurant without worrying. Not only does Farrell’s have these menus, their servers are educated about the different items and know the menus really well.

The kids always find it necessary to request an extra plate of pickles from our server to munch on. It’s all about the pickle for them! Bob Farrell’s Motto is “Give Them The Pickle and They’ll Come Back!” Well I know it keeps us coming back! That’s for sure!

Although I love the food at Farrell’s, we all know that the BEST part comes last….the dessert! Their dessert menu can be overwhelming (in a good way) to look at because there are so many different sundaes to choose from. It just means that you need to go back and try different sundaes on other occasions! For my daughter’s birthday, we decided to ring in “double digits” properly….with The World Famous Farrell’s ZOO! This was in addition to the complimentary birthday sundae they already bring you!

If you have never heard of The World Famous Farrell’s Zoo, pay attention to this because it’s a must-try for any and all Farrell’s go-ers! It’s made up of 4 scoops of their famous ice cream, 3 fruit flavor sherbets, 4 delicious toppings, whipped cream, cherries, and bananas! Oh and I forgot to mention the animals! (Hence the name “Zoo”!) Not only is it a ridonkulous sight too see but the crew at Farrell’s makes it an extra big deal by ringing the fire station siren to grab your attention when it’s time to deliver it to a table.

This concoction is so huge that it takes 2 servers to deliver it to your table and they bring it out on a stretcher! It’s quite the way to celebrate and sure made my birthday girl feel like the center of attention! After all of the hoopla and the birthday song of Farrell’s choice, the server will help dish out the zoo to all of the guests. It’s beyond yummy in the tummy. My daughter chose to set all of the animals aside to take home with us.

We had the best time celebrating my daughter’s 10th birthday at Farrell’s and want to send a special thank you to our server Brooke, who really helped make it a special night! We’d also like to thank Chad and Steven who are always accommodating during our frequent visits to Farrell’s!

It looks like my daughter has started a new collection of her yearly birthday stickers from Farrell’s on the inside of her closet! Well, until next year…..

Have YOU been to Farrell’s to celebrate a birthday or special occasion? If not, what are you waiting for? Get there!

Connect with Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour Restaurants on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram!

Simon San Diego Premium Outlets’ Annual Memorial Day Weekend Super Sale

May 20, 2015 / Las Americas Premium Outlets, Lifestyle, San Diego, The Carlsbad Premium Outlets

Come celebrate the unofficial start of summer with Simon Premium Outlets this Memorial Day Weekend. From Friday, May 22 through Monday, May 25, Carlsbad Premium Outlets and Las Americas Premium Outlets will both offer great deals on seasonal fashions with sidewalk sales, extended hours, extra savings on top of already low prices, and more.

Many retailers will be hosting sidewalk sales, offering additional discounts and promotions on top of the regular savings of 25 to 65 percent every day.

At Carlsbad Premium Outlets, shoppers can peruse outdoor displays at stores like BCBG Max Azria, Calvin Klein, Gap and Tommy Hilfiger to find the chicest summer looks for less.

At Las Americas Premium Outlets, shoppers can check out sidewalk sales and displays at stores like Armani Outlet, Banana Republic, BCBGMaxAzria, Calvin Klein, Coach, Gap Outlet, Guess, J.Crew, Kenneth Cole, Michael Kors, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Bahama, Tommy Hilfiger, Under Armour and more.

For extra savings, shoppers who are registered members of the VIP Shopper Club, AAA members or members of the military are encouraged to stop by the Information Center at each location to receive a complimentary VIP Coupon Book.

To help shoppers take advantage of the holiday’s savings, both Carlsbad Premium Outlets and Las Americas Premium Outlets will have extended hours all weekend long.

Friday, May 22: 9 AM-9 PM
Saturday, May 23: 9 AM-9 PM
Sunday, May 24: 9 AM-9 PM
Monday, May 25: 9 AM-9 PM

So, what are YOUR big plans for this Memorial Weekend? I think you can guess that mine include some shopping, especially with these extended hours and additional discounts! Maybe I’ll see you there!

Connect with Carlsbad Premium Outlets on Facebook and Twitter!

Connect with Las Americas Premium Outlets on Facebook and Twitter!

Sweet and Savory “Boutique” Waffles at Newport Beach’s The Waffle Affair!

May 18, 2015 / Food, Let's Eat!, Restaurant Reviews

Disclosure: I was invited to a media tasting as a guest of The Waffle Affair in order to write my review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.
The Waffle Affair is an adorable storefront, located in a shopping center off Bayside drive in Newport Beach. Situated extremely close to the water and Balboa Island, the area is known for residents who enjoy a leisurely and active outdoor lifestyle. The Waffle Affair is the perfect place to stop at to grab a hand-crafted coffee or tea and a waffle to go! If you’re thinking that the words “waffle” and “to go” don’t pair well, you must keep reading! (I suggest everyone keep reading anyway though)

It might seem “untraditional” to imagine grabbing waffles to go but these waffles are different. They don’t require any toppings or syrups and can easily be taken out to enjoy. (Don’t worry, they do also offer classic, traditional waffles with maple syrup & whipped butter, if that’s what you’re looking for!) You can choose from regular-sized waffles or waffle bites! Waffles are offered in both sweet and savory flavors, made from scratch and baked fresh to order. This means the waffles are very light and not greasy at all. There are some deliciously unique waffles on the menu at The Waffle Affair.

Here are just a few of the savory ones:

Cheddar & Cherry Hardwood Smoked Bacon
Prosciutto Di Parma & Gruyere Cheese
Oven Roasted Turkey & Havarti Cheese
Genoa Salami & Fontina Cheese
Waffle Bites with Hot Dogs or Breakfast Sausage (my daughter LOVED these)

Here are just a few of the sweet waffle options:

Liege (Belgium-style)
Madagascar Vanilla Bean
Chocolate Chip

Other waffle offerings include daily waffles and specialty & seasonal waffles. We had the pleasure of trying coconut waffle bites and carrot cake waffle bites that had a cream cheese frosting topping. They were both considered seasonal items, which are offered from time-to-time. They were amazing!

The Waffle Affair also has its own coffee bar and proudly serves Illy’s sustainably grown Arabica beans, as well as a selection of Dammann Teas, and freshly squeezed orange juice.

To view the full menu, click here. The Waffle Affair is a truly adorable place to go for breakfast, lunch, or an early dinner. The people are friendly and you’ll fall in love with the decor…especially the chandelier! But you’ll mostly fall in love with the waffles! I know I did!

The Waffle Affair is located at:

1064 Bayside Drive Newport Beach, CA 92660

949.720.8155

Connect with The Waffle Affair on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!