TICKET GIVEAWAY: Grammy® Award-Winning Okee Dokee Brothers Debuts @SegerstromArts (Ends 12/4) | Family-Style Folk Music

The Grammy® Award and two-time Parents' Choice Award winners, The Okee Dokee Brothers, bring their family-style folk music to Segerstrom Center - Samueli Theater Dec. 7 & 8, 2013!

The Okee Dokee Brothers © Alex Johnson

The Okee Dokee Brothers will take audiences on a fun-filled musical adventure with their Americana folk-meets-rock-‘n’-roll tunes that are meant to inspire families to explore the natural outdoors together.

It's National Floss Day! Tips from Healthy Smiles for Kids of Orange County! @HealthySmilesOC

This message is brought to you by Healthy Smiles for Kids of Orange County.

BLACK FRIDAY IS ALSO NATIONAL FLOSSING DAY!

Today is National Flossing Day, and it always falls on the day after Thanksgiving. It is a reminder for all Americans as early as age two, or when a child’s two teeth touch, to “floss” their way to better dental health on November 29, 2013 and every day. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 41 percent of children aged 2 to 11 had tooth decay in their first teeth. That’s a staggering number, but you can help your child avoid becoming a statistic by encouraging good dental hygiene early on.

Flossing prevents cavities from forming in between teeth. Floss is a tool that removes tartar and plaque buildup, because a toothbrush cannot clean the tight spaces between teeth and the base of the teeth and the gums. 

TIPS FROM HEALTHY SMILES FOR KIDS OF ORANGE COUNTY:

PHOTO GALLERY: LA Auto Show 2013 | @LAAutoShow #LAAutoShow #LAAS

It's the last weekend for LA Auto Show. Every year my husband tells me we have to go visit the Porsches (and especially this year), because they're debuting the new Porsche Macan. It's the smaller version of the Porsche Cayenne. So here we are again back at Porsche one year later with our boys. We spent the most time in this room thus the many pictures. I am telling you this, because when you're visiting with small children, you'll want to map out where you want to spend the most of your time. The convention is HUGE, and they will tire easily. TIP: Bringing a stroller might be the way to go.

Here are some photos that we took last weekend. Enjoy!

One of the things we love about Car Shows is when they show you a classic next to a new model. Check out this new 2014 Jaguar. What a beauty! (Located near the West Hall).

SKINCARE GIVEAWAY: Skin Laundry's 10 Minute Laser Facials and New Skin Care Products @SkinLaundry #SKINLAUNDRY

On Media Night, Skin Laundry invited some of us out to experience the 10 minute laser facials. I went not too long ago (you can read all about my first visit here), and I really wanted to try it again.

Skin Laundry uses a special laser and light technique that vaporizes the bacteria and makeup hidden deep inside your pores and is designed to tighten and tone your skin.

Wake Up to a Holiday Home Grocery Delivery @WinderFarms With EggNog @RockviewFarms

One morning we woke up to a Holiday Home Grocery Delivery by Winder Farms! It was about 7 am when we found these cooler bags at our doorstep.

Take a look at what was inside our sample delivery:

• On LEFT: home-style tortilla chips, farm fresh chocolate milk, apple juice, green beans, Pico de Gallo, and fresh GF chicken tamales.
• On RIGHT: a can of Rockview whipped topping, two cartons of Rockview Eggnog, fresh Oceanspray cranberries, home-style chocolate chip cookies, garlic butter rolls, and an apple pie. 

WOW, it was like getting presents Christmas morning! This is perfect timing for our Thanksgiving feast this week, and I cannot wait to share this with the family! Thanks, Winder Farms! You have saved me some time at the grocery store.

Hydrate @ZICO - The Official Coconut Water of the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games

ZICO is the Official Coconut Water of the Olympic Games.

Last week I received same ZICO Pure Premium Coconut Water to sample. They had some interesting flavors like Latte, Chocolate, and Pineapple. Did you know that Coconut Water is a great alternative to Dairy-Free and Lactose-Free beverages? Here are some wonderful benefits:

• It's naturally hydrating. 
• It naturally has as much potassium as a banana.
• It's Gluten Free.
• It's Dairy Free.
• It's Lactose Free.

Latte flavored coconut water with natural caffeine? It was pretty good. 

Tips for Planting a Mini-Herb Garden | Handmade Planters by ThinkEco2

 

Do you live in an apartment or condo and have limited patio space for an herb garden? Well this might be the perfect solution. ThinkEco2 (a company out of San Diego) sent us a handmade planter with reclaimed cedar and up-cycled wood to review.  I live in a condo with a small patio so this planter was the perfect size for a mini-herb garden. I think it turned it out great. Tips below!

Highlights for CHILL @TheQueenMary PLUS a Giveaway! #QueenMaryCHILL

Last week we attended a media preview of The Queen Mary's CHILL right before it opened to the public. This is their second annual year in SoCal, and we could not wait! Exploring the ice sculptures in THE ICE KINGDOM is one of our favorite holiday experiences! Here are some highlights below...

When we arrived, we walked through a magical Candy Lane with giant candy canes, snowmen, gum drops, and lollipops. It instantly felt like Christmas time.

Movie Review: Disney Frozen is Perfect for the Holidays! #DisneyFrozen

Walt Disney Animation Studios, the studio behind “Tangled” and “Wreck-It Ralph,” presents “Frozen,” a stunning big-screen comedy adventure. 

Last week we previewed the new Disney Frozen movie.

Anna (voice of Kristen Bell) and her sister Elsa (voice of Idina Menzel) were the best of friends, and they loved playing together. One day a terrible accident happens, and it will keep them apart. Parts of the movie were sad, but there were also lots of fun and funny moments. I especially enjoyed the heartfelt moments between the sisters. The film is beautiful and nicely done. The new princesses are really pretty, the graphics are amazing (WOW), the characters are adorable, and the little snowman is just lovable.

TICKET GIVEAWAY: Sky High Sports - The Trampoline Place | @SkyHighSportsUS @SkyHighOntario #SkyHighSports

If you're looking for something fun while the kids are on holiday break, you might want to try Sky High Sports. They'll have you bouncing off the walls!

Staff members can be seen monitoring and regulating safety at Sky High Sports.

GIVEAWAY: Dermasuri Deep Cleansing Exfoliating Mitt | #Review @Dermasuri

Want to know the secret of silky smooth skin that glows? You have to exfoliate! I'll have to tell you about Korean bathhouses another time. My friends and I really enjoy our scrub downs there, but you'll have to know a few things before you go. If you know what I mean and you know all about the mitts they use, you'll love this next item by Dermasuri!

Introducing the new luxury Dermasuri Deep Cleansing Exfoliating Mitt! (Just in time for the holidays!) Bringing you the secrets of East to the West, Dermasuri's deep exfoliating mitt removes dead skin cells with a unique fabric texture leaving you with smooth skin and a healthy glow.

Wordless Wednesday: Having Fun with Merida Wig | Disney on Ice @DisneyOnIce

We're having fun with a Merida wig and getting ready for her debut at Disney On Ice Presents Rockin' Ever After!  

TICKET GIVEAWAY: Disney On Ice Presents Rockin' Ever After | @DisneyOnIce

Sinus Sketcher Contest: Sudafed OPEN UP™ and Enter to Win $5,000! #SudafedOpenUp #ad

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Sudafed.

Do you suffer from sinus pressure and congestion? Right around allergy season, my eyes start to water, and I'm walking around with tissues blowing my nose. It's a little embarrassing sometimes, but I know that my husband have it worse than I do. It gets uncomfortable especially at night (not being able to breathe out of one nostril, tossing and turning), then we wake up with bags under our eyes, because we didn't get good sleep.

The other night I was playing around with Sudafed OPEN UP™ application on Facebook and entered their contest for a chance to win $5,000 and you can too. All you have to do is sketch a picture (get creative) and show them how you look and feel with sinus pain and pressure.  That's it!

Take a look at mine. 

Tech Tuesday: Keep Track of Your Family with React Mobile App | @ReactMobile #Ad

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of React Mobile.

Turn Your Phone into a Powerful Safety Device with React Mobile App!

I know that it's every parent's worry when it comes to keeping track of our kids whereabouts. What if there was a way (like having a tracking device on them) at all times? What if there was an easier way for them to just check in? Well now there is with this new app called React Mobile.

React Mobile app turns our smartphones into a powerful safety device which will alert your emergency contacts when you're in danger or feel unsafe with a touch of a button.

Making Time to Relax at Burke Williams | @Burke_Williams @OutletsatOrange #MomTime

Some of you know that I recently made the transition to go back to work Full-time. It was scary at first (finding and trusting childcare while adjusting, etc), but now it doesn't even feel like I ever stopped working. As working parents, when do you ever get a break? You'll have to teach me how you do it, because I burn out midweek, and I find it nearly impossible to make time for myself.

Those who know me know that I love spending Girl-Time at Day Spas. The main difference is the Day Spas have a full facility with a lounge (or lounges), showers, Jacuzzi, steam room, and vanity room, etc. A girl can lose track of time in a Day Spa. You might even find yourself asleep in one of the lounges and not want to leave.  

When Burke Williams asked me to come out and experience their amenities, of course, I said, YES!!

So Yes, I did it! I scheduled time for myself, and I made it a spa evening after work. (I have to schedule everything or I won't do it).

TICKET GIVEAWAY: Disney On Ice Presents Rockin' Ever After | @DisneyOnIce

Disney on Ice Presents Rockin' Ever After will be here December 11, 2013 - January 5, 2014 with an all-new live production! It's also the ice skating debut of Merida from Disney•Pixar’s BRAVE. They're coming to the STAPLES Center, Honda Center, Citizens Business Bank Arena, and Long Beach Arena! Enter for a chance to win tickets below!

Children Explore Ways to Give Back This Month @PretendCity Children's Museum

This month, children explore different ways to give back to their communities at Pretend City Children's Museum. 

Pretend City Children’s Museum, a nonprofit organization, is focused on giving back to the community during the month of November by providing exceptional educational experiences for children and their grown-ups. This month, Pretend City gives back to its young guests by teaching community giving, a concept that children often find difficult to grasp. Through thoughtfully designed activities, children explore the humanitarian ideas of philanthropy, volunteerism, donations and community support.

FROZEN Day @ChildrensPlace Sat,11/16 @TheGroveLA! #DisneyFrozen #PLACEHoliday

If you're near The Farmer's Market in LA on Saturday, November 16th, you'll want to check out the Frozen event happening at The Children's Place!

Meet stars from the upcoming comedy adventure Frozen, in theaters November 27!

Prevent SIDS with HALO SleepSacks PLUS a Giveaway! | #Review @HaloSleepSack #HALOSleepSack

I'm going to be a new auntie in the next coming months to two twin boys and a niece (they're due within a week of each other). I can hardly wait! Right now I'm helping them put a check list together for their baby registry. One of my all time favorite things to use when my boys were younger (and gift) are HALO SleepSacks. They're wearable blankets.

One of the scariest thing about being a new parent is the dangers of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is the leading cause of death among infants 1 month to 1 year old. No one can really predict the cause, but you can learn about the risks and take preventative measures. 

80-90% of SIDS-related deaths are due to unsafe sleep practices.

Since blankets are not allowed in the crib for newborns and infants, HALO SleepSacks are a safe alternative as it's a wearable blanket that's warm and kick-proof.

10-Minute Laser Facials at Skin Laundry | #Review @FashionIsland @SkinLaundry

FASHION ISLAND LOCATION NOW OPEN! 

You might have seen that I went to Skin Laundry at Fashion Island recently for a 10-minute laser facial. Yes, you have heard correctly - it's a laser facial that's only 10 minutes! I think it's perfect if you're always on the go.

GIVEAWAY: DreamWorks TURBO Now On Blu-ray DVD Digital HD! #TurboFastFun @FHEInsiders

As a Fox Home Ent Insider, I am pleased to offer you this next promotion....


From the makers of Madagascar and Kung Fu Panda, DreamWorks TURBO is out on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD today (Tuesday, November 12th)!!

Turbo is a snail and his lifelong dream is to race in the Indy 500. A snail?? NO WAY!!

Well, YES WAY! One day he gains his super-speed powers and against all the odds and ridicule from both friends AND human, he enters the race.

You'll have to watch the movie to find out how he got his powers, and what happens in the race. My kids LOVE it, and we've been watching it non-stop ever since. I KID YOU NOT!

Want to win a copy of your own? Find out how below...

THEATER: EVITA Comes to Segerstrom Center for the Arts Dec 10 – 22! #EvitaOC #SCFTA

The first national tour of the Tony®-nominated hit production, EVITA, comes to Segerstrom Center for the Arts - December 10th through December 22nd, and I can't wait!

Caroline Bowman as 'Eva Perón' in the National Tour of EVITA. Photo by Richard Termine.

EVITA is a story about Eva Perón who used her beauty and charisma to rise meteorically from the slums of Argentina to the presidential mansion as First Lady. She won international acclaim and adoration from her own people as a champion of the poor, while glamour, power and greed made her the world’s first major political celebrity.

With much anticipation, producers Hal Luftig, Scott Sanders Productions, and Troika Entertainment announced casting for the national tour of the Tony Award-Nominated Best Revival of a Musical and smash hit production of Tim Rice’s and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s EVITA.

New York Post says of this stunning new production, “The wait was worth it: packed with memorable tunes, EVITA is a MODERN MASTERPIECE!”

The national tour of EVITA will star:

• Caroline Bowman (Kinky Boots) as Eva Perón, 
• Tony-nominated Josh Young (Jesus Christ Superstar) as Che, and 
• Sean MacLaughlin (Woman in White) as Juan Perón.

The cast also features Desi Oakley as the alternate for Eva, Christopher Johnstone as Magaldi and
Krystina Alabado as the Mistress.

BBQ Heaven at Wood Ranch | #Review @IrvineSpectrum @WoodRanch #WoodRanchBBQ

Not too long ago, we were invited to Wood Ranch at the Irvine Spectrum for a Mom's Night Out to sample their menu. A night out with the ladies and BBQ?  Of course, I said, YES!!

Prepare to DROOL...


APPETIZERS 

One of the first things that came out was their Half & Half shredded onions and sweet potato fries - SO GOOD!

Feast your eyes on these mini-Pork Sliders, because we ate them all. 

NOW OPEN: Nekter Juice Bar at Bella Terra in Huntington Beach PLUS a Giveaway! #NekterJuice @NekterJuiceBar @BellaTerraHB

NEW Nekter Juice Bar Huntington Beach location! 

Last weekend, we were invited to check out the new Nekter Juice Bar in Bella Terra. Listening to everyone's enthusiasm in line about the fresh fruit and vegetables, I really wanted to try something healthy too.

Previewing Initials Inc. Handbags West Coast Launch PLUS a Giveaway! @InitialsInc #iicali Ends 11/23/13

Not too long ago, we attended an Initials, Inc. launch on the west coast.  We had the chance to preview their 2013-2014 fall and winter handbag collection and signature line. Check out this spread...

DISCOUNT OFFER: All-New Disney on Ice Presents Rockin' Ever After | @DisneyonIce

Disney on Ice Presents Rockin' Ever After is coming to SoCal December 11, 2013 - January 5, 2014 with an all-new live production.

Featuring the ice skating debut of Merida from Disney•Pixar’s BRAVE, a cast of world-class skaters brings your favorite moments from Disney•Pixar’s BRAVE, Tangled, The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast to life in a musical showcase that features the hottest tunes and talent from across the kingdom.

Mountain High Enhances Its Family Learning Center PLUS Win a Season Pass! @MtHigh

One of the things we love being in OC is that snow is only a drive-away! We love the snow and try to visit every year. For day trips, we like to take the family up to Mt. High.

Photo Courtesy of Mt. High. 

Mountain High is Southern California’s closest winter resort located just an hour and a half from Los Angeles and Orange County. The area consists of three separate mountains (Mountain High East, West, and North), and offers a wide variety of lifts and trails, a world-class terrain park, an outstanding Winter Sports School, and the region’s largest tubing area. Night skiing & snowboarding is available 5 nights-a-week and snow-making covers more than 80% of the slopes. Mountain High has been the first resort to open in Southern California for the past 16 years and traditionally operates from mid November to mid April.

Mountain High invites parents to “bring the family closer” this winter with lesson programs and discounts designed to intrigue the whole family. 

Movie Review: Thor - The Dark World Might Be Better Than the First | #FreeLoki #ThorDarkWorld @ThorMovies

We were invited to attend a pre-screening of Thor: The Dark World this week so I sent huge fans, Max and Nhi. (I think they've seen every movie out there so I was curious as to what they had to say). This is what Max reported...

If anyone is a Thor fan, this movie will not disappoint. In comparison to the first movie (which introduces us to the Norse God "Thor" - was he fit to rule?), this second movie pushes the envelope of sacrifice, romance, fate, betrayal, and revenge.

Free Event: Heritage Hill Historical Park Celebrates 150 Years of Serrano Adobe @OCParks

FREE EVENT/FREE PARKING

Heritage Hill Historical Park and OC Parks is celebrating 150 years of Serrano Adobe on Sunday, November 17th. A new exhibit will be opened to showcase what life was like during the Californio period of the Rancho history.

Built in 1863, the Serrano Adobe is the only remaining structure left from Jose Serrano’s Rancho Canada de los Alisos. Originally five adobes occupied the Rancho stretching from the 5 freeway to Cook’s Corner. Dwight Whiting purchased much of the Rancho in 1884 and his sons restored the Adobe, which was later declared a California Historic Landmark in 1932.

New Product/Giveaway: Bath Time with Tubby Table | @TubbyTable #TubbyTable

What is a Tubby Table? 

The other day, we received a Tubby Table in the mail to review. New to the market, is an activity table, designed by moms, to entertain little ones in the bathtub. Tubby Table engages children 1 and up with multi-colored numbered and shaped cups designed to help children with their fine motor skills.

EEK at the Greek Theatre 2013 Halloween Fun

Disclosure: We attended as media.

As you know, Halloween is and was a big month for us. We were all over the place, and we loved experiencing every bit of it. As we bid adieu and head into the next holiday season, I'd like to share with you one last Halloween coverage (and a sneak peak inside the VIP Lounge at the Greek Theatre). Enjoy!

We were invited to attend the 3rd Annual Eek at the Greek (Presented by MERCEDES-BENZ Dealers of Southern California). It was held at The Greek Theatre located in Griffith Park. Performing that night was Symphony In The Glen, and the front plaza was transformed into a Trick-or-Treat Village!

CHILL Returns to the Queen Mary November 22nd | @TheQueenMary #QMChill

BACK AGAIN! 

Beginning November 22, the Queen Mary will be overtaken by a deep freeze for the second annual CHILL. We went last year, and we loved it!

Photo Courtesy of Queen Mary's CHILL

It's an experience that will bring holiday cheer and North Pole temperatures to families across sunny Southern California.

McDonald’s Limited-Edition Happy Meal Books and Free E-Books | @McDonalds

In support of National Family Literacy Day, McDonald’s invites families across the Southland to celebrate the joy of reading with the launch of a new Happy Meal Books promotion. Starting Nov. 1 – Nov. 14, local McDonald’s restaurants will offer books in print for Happy Meal customers.



McDonald’s limited-edition Happy Meal Books include:

• “The Goat Who Ate Everything” – Tells a story of a goat who has a big appetite and struggles to eat right. But when he does, he feels great and becomes the playful ‘kid’ everyone loves.
• “Deana’s Big Dreams” – Shares how Deana, the world’s smallest dinosaur, grew tall by eating right. 
• “Ant, Can’t” – Features Ant, a bite-sized bodybuilder who’s big on encouraging physical fitness through exercise and eating right.
• “Doddi the Dodo Goes to Orlando” – Follows happy-go-lucky bird Doddi who travels the world. She eats right because this dodo is always on the go-go.

TICKET GIVEAWAY: 18th Annual Christmas Train 2013 @IrvineParkRR #IrvineParkRailroad #ChristmasTrain

Back for their 18th year, Irvine Park Railroad's Christmas Train will take children to the North Pole to meet Santa on select nights in November and December! We went last year and the kids loved it! We highly recommend getting there early to avoid large crowds.

(c) LetsPlayOC.com

While waiting to board the train, there are many activities for children to enjoy in Santa’s Village located next to the train station. Activities will open one hour prior to when the Christmas Train runs and will include:

v  Story Time with Mrs. Claus

v  Christmas Cookie Decorating

v  Carnival Games

v  Santa Claus Moon Bounce

v  Christmas Coloring Corner

v  Picture Stands

36th Annual Dana Point @TurkeyTrot - Run The Race Before You Stuff Your Face!

Known for its scenic coastal routes, beautiful weather, and family-friendly activities, the Dana Point Turkey Trot has become an Orange County tradition, attracting more than 16,000 participants to its 5K, 10K, Kids’ Gobble Wobble, and two-day health and wellness expo.

“For 36 years, the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce has produced one of the nation’s largest Thanksgiving Day runs,” said Heather Johnston, executive director, Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. “Whether running your first Turkey Trot or your 36th encouraging your kids to join in the Gobble Wobble, visiting with friends old and new, or exploring the health and wellness expo, we’ll have activities for the whole family.”

Limited Time: Daphne's Cali-Greek Bowl | @DaphnesGreek #Daphnes

This summer Daphne's California Greek's Mini-Pita Trio was such a hit, they decided to roll out a new item on the menu which combines two world flavors in one bowl.

Available for a limited time, Daphne's introduced the Cali-Greek Bowl (a Greek cuisine with a California twist). It comes with a choice of citrus brown rice or rice pilaf, black beans, guacamole, salsa, jalapeno bacon, Greek yogurt chipotle sauce and a choice of grilled chicken, savory gyros or falafel. You'll like that it's less than 700 calories!

"The popular response to the California flair behind Daphne's menu of traditional Greek-inspired dishes gives us room to innovate within these taste profiles that our customers crave," said Bill Trefethen, CEO of Daphne's California Greek. "We think our guests are going to enjoy this new Cali-Greek Bowl."