Archive for September, 2011
SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular
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I think by now you’ve all have heard me go on and on about how much I love this time of year. Truth is I really really love fall and of course Halloween! There are so many super fun events happening this month that I’m sure I won’t be able to cover them all. One of my favorite event’s is taking place every weekend in October at SeaWorld San Diego.
SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular is taking place every weekend in October. This super fun Halloween party features trick or treating, costume parties, special Halloween shows and more! The best part is that this super fun event is included with the price of admission. Kiddos can come dressed up in costume if they would like to. I know that my kiddos LOVE LOVE wearing their costume as many times as possible during the month and I want to make sure to head to SeaWorld, to take advantage of doing just that!
Halloweeen Spooktacular takes place every Saturday and Sunday in October from 1pm to 6pm. If you have been planning to make a visit to SeaWorld, this would be the perfect time. The weather is perfect, the crowds are on the smaller side and the kiddos will enjoy every minute of this super fun Halloween adventure.
To learn more about SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular head here.
Snoopy’s Costume Party/Camp Spooky at Knott’s Berry Farm
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Camp Spooky/Snoopy's Costume Party Credit: Knott's Berry Farm
I love this time of year and all the fun events that are happening around town! Halloween is fun for both young and old and Knott’s Berry Farm knows how to cater to both. Knott’s is known worldwide for The Haunt. This super fun and scary event is a favorite of my hubby and I’ve always had a blast tagging along with him and being scared out of my mind!
Knott’s Berry Farm doesn’t want the little ones to miss out and they’ve created an event that is sure to be fun for the entire family. Snoopy’s Costume Party will take place every weekend in October. This fun event is geared for kiddos 3 to 11 and offers special Halloween Themed sows, activities for the kiddos, the Monster Dance Party, a costume parade, Trick-or-Treating and two mazes geared for the kiddos. It is a non scare event and perfect for even the tiniest of tots!
Camp Spooky and Snoopy’s Costume Party is included with regular park admission. You don’t have to pay extra to enjoy this super fun party.
I’m heading over with the kiddos this Saturday and can’t wait to share all about our experience. To learn more about it head here.
Having My Glass Half Full and being a Positivity Ambassador!
Posted by: | CommentsI’ve always considered myself as having a ” glass half full” kind of attitude. I love to look at the positive and think that things always go well in life when we’re looking at things with the right attitude. It doesn’t mean that I always see things as “half full” but I most certainly try. I think it’s almost crucial to have a great attitude especially when we’re dealing with the kiddos!
I’m so excited to announce that I was selected to be a Positivity Ambassador for the California Milk Processor’s Board by Latina Mom Bloggers. I am honored to take part of this campaign because of two things. I love anything that encourages being positive and I definitely love milk! My family loves milk and we go through it like water(well maybe even more than water!). We use it to make fresh and health smoothies in the morning, as a snack, with our cereal and of course with many dinner recipes and baking. My kiddos know that milk provides a great source of calcium that helps them grow strong bones and that is the perfect companion to mom’s homemade cookies.
Remember that I mentioned earlier that I was so excited to be an ambassador of positivity because I love well anything that encourages a positive attitude? Well let me introduce you to a fun character that will help all of us have a positive attitude…
Meet Simon Felix, The Master of the Glass Half Full or en Español ,El Maestro del Vaso Medio Lleno. He is a fun and fictional character that is here to help us all have our “glass half full”.
Want to learn more about “El Maestro” or the Master? Then head over to follow him on Twitter or find him on Facebook.
Disclosure: This is part of a sponsored campaign with the California Milk Processor’s Board and Latina Mom Bloggers
Mars and Stars Event at Irvine Park
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Credit: JPL
I just came home from spending a beautiful afternoon at Irvine Park. I met up with my blogging buddy, Michele, from Fun Orange County Parks for a play date. The kiddos had a great time exploring, playing and having a great time at Irvine Park Railroad’s Pumpkin Patch.
While I was there I noticed a sign for the upcoming Mars and Stars night out, taking place on October 8th at 6pm. Mars and Stars is a combined effort between OC Parks and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL). These very special event is free to the public and is perfect for your little space ranger. The event includes presentations by experts in robotic space exploration, children’s crafts, storytime with OC Public Libraries, stargazing presented by OC Astronomers and scale models of Mars rovers.
JPL will present the Mars Science Laboratory Mission, focusing on the engineering side of the mission. Nagin Cox Assistant Flight System Engineering Manager for the mission will lead the presentation and discuss the new mission technology. This mission is part of NASA’s Mars Exploration Programs, a long-term effort of robotic exploration of the red planet. The inflatable Curiosity Rover will again be on display. The OC Zoo and Irvine Park Railroad will remain open until dusk for extended family activities.
All events and parking are free to the public, reservations are required. A perfect family adventure through the galaxy at OC Parks.
I really can’t wait to take my kiddos. My daughter and son love learning about space and this seems like it would be fun for the entire family. To learn more about this super fun event head here.
What: Mars and Stars Event- Irvine Park
When: Saturday, October 8th at 6pm.
LA County Fair and Family Four Pack/Parking Giveaway
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Update: Giveaway now closed. The winners are Rita who left a comment on happyhourmom.blogspot.com and Jenn Herrera who left a comment here. Congrats! Thank you all for entering.
The LA County Fair is in full swing. I had an opportunity to attend the fair’s food preview and had a great time! To me the The LA County Fair is the last hurrah before summer and we always make at least one trip to the fair. The fair runs Wednesday to Sunday and will close it’s doors on Sunday, October 2nd. You have two fun weekends to go out and enjoy everything that the fair has to offer.
There are a few ways you can save when you head to the fair. You can get in for Free on Thursday if you donate a new or gently used. You can also receive $5 admission after 5pm, Wednesday through Friday. All you have to do is head here to download your coupon.
It’s Giveaway time! We’re hosting a combined giveaway from one of my favorite blogging buddies, Becky from HappyHourmom.blogspot.com. We have two family four pack of tickets and parking pass to giveaway. Just leave a comment letting me know why you want to win and that’s it! Head over to HappyHourMom.blogspot.com for another opportunity to enter. Giveaway ends on Monday, Sept 26th at 11:59pm. Winners will be chosen at random. Good luck!
Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa
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The front entrance
Last weekend I spent a much needed (and deserved!) day at Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa. Although I have lived down the street from this fabulous Disneyland for adults for almost 3 years, this was my very first visit. I went with a girlfriend of mine and we planned on a day of relaxation, rejuvenation and renewal since that is what the Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa is known for.
Under the Oaks
My massage table under the oaks
Under the Oaks:
I scheduled a Swedish massage “Under the Oaks” and let me just say, it was fantastic. Being outdoors under the majestic oak trees with the sound of the waterfall was just the most serene experiences I’ve ever had. My masseuse was amazing and worked out all of my stress kinks. Her expertise and magic hands even knew that I have been driving a lot lately (I drove to the Griffith Observatory just the day before). I love my masseuse Tammy R-she’s my new best friend.
The grounds:
Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa consists of over 12 acres of lush, tropical land. Just walking around the grounds was relaxing and made me feel as if I was on vacation in the Pacific. While there, don’t forget to stop and take a gander at the 100 year old grapefruit tree that is located near Club Mud.
Pools and food:
There are over 17 pools, spas and baths to relax in at the Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa. Along with the saunas and steam room and The Grotto (extra admission fee).
Breakfast and Lunch are served daily at their Mediterranean Cuisine restaurant Cafe Sole. We ate lunch at the Cafe Sole and it was delish! I suggest eating in the cafe because the yellow jackets were out in fierce numbers! However, we ate outside and just batted the pesky buggers away with a napkin.
The lounge pool
The Mineral Bath:
The most popular of all the baths at the Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa are the Mineral Baths. The famous geothermal Mineral Bath flows year round at a comfortable 104 degrees. Just remove your silver jewelry before going in or it will tarnish. Don’t be surprised if there is a line to get in.
Can you tell these people are pleased that I am taking their picture?
Club Mud:
At Club Mud, the only red clay mineral bath in Southern California-getting dirty is encouraged! I had a blast rolling around in the mud and smearing it on my face. I felt like a kid again! I suggest wearing an old bathing suit as the mud may stain. Take lots of pictures of yourself in the Mud when you go and share them with us!
Judith at Club Mud
Cost:
Admission to the Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa is $46 Monday through Thursdays and $59 Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays. Admission grants you access to the Spa grounds, pools, baths, saunas, steam rooms, and spas. There is a discount on admission fees with a 50 minute or more service scheduled. City of Corona residents (woot!), teachers, nurses, firefighters, police and seniors 55+ receive a 10% off admission with identification. Annual passes are available to enjoy the Spa year round. This includes a years worth of admissions and discounts on services.
My suggestions for enjoying your spa day:
Arrive early and then head to the bath house to change your clothes and grab a locker. Don’t forget to bring your own swimsuit cover up-one will not be provided by Glen Ivy. Make sure to drink LOTS of water! There are several water stations with natural well water to help proponent this. I suggest that you schedule your spa services with plenty of time before and between appointments. There is no need to rush on your relaxing spa day!
After my glorious day at the Glen Ivy Hot Springs spa, I have decided to save up my money and purchase myself a membership pass. This momma could use more days relaxing!
Have you been to the Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa? What are your thoughts and suggestions about it? Share your pictures with us! Desiree@DayTrippingMom.com
For more information and to schedule your own appointment log on to Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa
-This is not a compensated or sponsored post. I went on my own and I am sharing my experience with all of you.
To read more about me and my journey to become a good mom head over to my personal blog: Sarcastic, Funny and Brutally Honest.
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A Visit to the Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego
Posted by: | CommentsOur San Diego contributor Maribel, visited the Hotel Del Coronado with her family recently and shares with us all about it:
Credit: Maribel Reyes
This past weekend my family and I were guests at the world famous Hotel Del Coronado on the Coronado Island of San Diego.
Hotel Del Coronado a.k.a. “The Del” opened in 1888 and was built by Elisha Babcock and Hampton Story. It has been photographed by many and was even the setting for several Hollywood movies such as “The Married Virgin” , “Some Like It Hot” (starring American legend Marilyn Monroe) and “The Stunt Man” among others. This Victorian beachfront resort features 679 rooms, 50 villas, 28 cottages, 2 restaurants and 4 bars and is all just a few steps away from the beach!
It is the perfect Hotel to spend a weekend away while enjoying a “staycation” or traveling with little ones.
Credit: Maribel Reyes
Our weekend began as we arrived for check-in at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. It was a sunny day and we were ready to relax and enjoy all The Del has to offer. As we walked into the lobby we felt a blast from the past with the beautiful chandelier in the center of the lobby and a classic elevator which has an attendant that will assist you to the floor you are going to. This made us feel as if we were back in the 1920′s with the iron door and walls.
Credit: Maribel Reyes
As we entered our room we realized we had a view of the best of both worlds: Ocean View to the left and the City View to our right. We felt relaxed and even sat in our balcony to enjoy the views. Our kids were happy to see and hear the ocean waves crashing along the beach. We were at the pool in less than 30 minutes with its heated waters (82 degrees!) and a cool breeze from the Pacific; we were relaxed.
You can tell that The Del welcomes families with kids-especially when the pool attendant has not only towels for their guests but also swim diapers for $1.00 each. So if you forgot swim diapers do not fret! The Del thinks of everything! They have swim goggles, kick boards, beach balls and floating noodles for their guests to enjoy as well.
We then decided to take a walk alongside the beach and we were happy to see that The Del even thought of their guests here! If you want to enjoy the beach they have beach chairs and beach umbrellas you may use, you just have to sign for them and you are good to go. The beach at The Del has front row view of the sunset and we enjoyed it while building sandcastles and listening to the waves. Our kids had lots of fun building and playing with sand without a care in the world.
Credit: Maribel Reyes
For dinner we took advantage of the setting and went to Babcock & Story Bakery. At the Babcock & Story Bakery you can enjoy the cool breeze of the Pacific while eating their delishous rolled sandwiches served with chips. For dessert we had some delicious ice cream with our choice of toppings from MooTime Creamery!
As the sun sets, The Del staff set up fire pits with chairs placed around them for their guests to enjoy making s’mores!
When we arrived at our room we were greeted by a plate of cheeses, fruits, crackers and water. It was a wonderful surprise so we enjoyed our balcony while the sun was setting gloriously in the Pacific. Our kids loved this surprise as much as we did. We felt very pampered and as if we were vacationing far from home. That is the beauty of a “staycation”! No driving or flying out of town, you’re still just a couple of miles away from home, yet so close that you enjoy it even more!
With all the fun filled activities we did, our kids were in bed by 8:30 p.m. and hubby and I got a little one on one time out on the balcony…It was truly romantic.
For breakfast we enjoyed the Sheerwater, which offers a Sunday Buffet with amazing food for $25.00 per person 12 and over $5.00 for children 4 – 11 years of age. Their Baja California Norte Omelet has shrimp in it and is simply delicious!
Shopping was also on our to-do list and we did shop. Among The Del stores there is a toy store with all your little one needs to play in the sand, puzzles, wind up toys, books about the ocean and beach and much more! We found some wooden puzzles that were unique and fun. They also have a candy store “Spreckels” sweets & treats offers delicious toffees and among our an
old-fashioned Candy Recipes book!
This was a very relaxing and fun filled weekend. The best? We didn’t have to leave San Diego to vacation! Thank you Hotel Del Coronado for all the great memories!
Wordless Wednesday : Mouse Ears
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- My son and his very first pair of “Mouse Ears”
Last Friday afternoon, we headed to Disneyland to check out the Halloween decorations and take in the sights. We had a great time and my son got his first pair of ”Mouse Ears”. He absolutely loves them and couldn’t wait to put them on. I caught this picture of him as he patiently waited inside the hat shop and watched the Halloween Parade roll by.
For more Wordless Wednesday fun head over to Angry Julie Monday.
I would love to feature your photos of your outings on Wordless Wednesday. If you have any that you would like to share please send them to mom@daytrippingmom.com
Yummy School Snack Idea Plus Giveaway! Dan-o-nino Cups
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Winner: Thank you all for entering! The contest is now closed. The winner of the giveaway is Bernadette Swails.
I love to pack a fun and healthy school snacks for the kids. Yogurt is one of our favorite treats at home and last week when we were at the grocery store, my son begged for Dan-0-nino cups to take to school. We bought two packs last week and they are long gone. My kiddos devoured them within days(I can write an entire rant on how the kids eat through a week’s worth of school/lunch items in a day or two).
Dan-o-nino cups are the perfect kid sized treats and come in all the flavors kids love. They come in six flavors which include: Strawberry, strawberry banana, vanilla, banana, peach and raspberry. Dan-O-Nino cups come in 6 and 12 packs and they contain no artificial colors or flavors and no high fructose corn syrup! That’s just the kind of reassurance a mom needs to hear!
Honestly, the best thing about Dan-o-nino cups is that not only are they a perfect snack, they are also yummy and your kiddos will love them… maybe a little too much.
It’s giveaway time!
We are giving away a $50 Visa Card to help you out to pick up Dan-o-nino cups on your next trip to the grocery store. All you have to do is leave a comment letting me know what flavor you think you would love to try out. That’s it! Contest ends next Wednesday, September 29th at 11:59 pm. Winner will be selected at random. Good Luck!
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by BabyCenter in conjunction with the BabyCenter Blog Network. All prizes and compensation are provided by BabyCenter and Dan-o-nino.
Orange County Children’s Book Festival 2011
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Happy Tuesday everyone! I know it’s only Tuesday night but I am already looking forward to the weekend. I wanted to share with you one very special event taking place next weekend that you don’t want to miss!!
The Orange County Children’s Book Festival will take place on October 2nd at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa. This very special event is the largest of it’s kind in the world and features a day of family fun, especially for the kiddos. The festival features a Free petting zoo area, storytellers, your favorite childrens authors and live entertainment geared for the kiddos.
I’m super excited to attend this year because I finally have a reader! She’s looking forward to buying some fun new books and having fun. I hope you can make it!
For additional info head here.
