Published on Thursday, December 8, 2011 by caryn
In my childhood home, my parents made a big deal about decorating and prepping for the holidays. The day after Thanksgiving we were trimming the tree, drinking eggnog, and hanging the stockings for the season. Because my children are young, our decor accents are scaled down, although we still ensure our tree is lighted and decorated festively for the season.
It's... Read More »
Published on Thursday, December 8, 2011 by caryn
Last week, the hubby and the kids spent an adventure-filled day at Knott's Merry Farm, and I can't wait to share with you our favorite highlights from the day. But since we're in right in the midst of the holiday fun, I thought I'd share a fantastic deal and opportunity to give back.
Once again, Knott's will collect hundreds of toys for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve ... Read More »
Published on Thursday, December 8, 2011 by caryn
Somewhere during my teen years, our smallish family of three made it a tradition to see a movie on Christmas Day. We'd wake up early, grab breakfast (out, of course) and head to the theater for that film...that much anticipated holiday film of the season. This year, I expect War Horse to be that film.
Unlike most red carpet premieres, traditionally held in Los ... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, December 7, 2011 by caryn
When I first purchased my iPhone, I vowed not to let my children near it, for a variety of reasons, mostly though to keep them from breaking it. I've since invested in a variety of cases, in the hopes of avoiding a catastrophe. My kids' favorite though, is the soft, bear-shaped case developed by Infantino. The reputable baby brand, known for their smartly-designed... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, December 7, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winners are Heather H and Georgia. Congrats!
This is perhaps my favorite time of year. It's been brisk here in Southern California, and it's truly starting to feel like Christmas. And while I'm busy prepping our home, shopping for friends and family, and exploring my inner foodie, I've also got safety on the ... Read More »
Published on Monday, December 5, 2011 by caryn
My husband and I love opening our home to friends and family, particularly during the holidays when we can include a festive meal. We enjoy exploring our foodie sides, experimenting with new recipes or fresh takes on the familiar. While we've had many opportunities to host people at our home, it's not often that we plan a formal party, given the fact that our children... Read More »
Published on Monday, December 5, 2011 by caryn
It seems like only yesterday that we were carving pumpkins...baking pies...remembering all that we have to be thankful for. With less than a month before Christmas, we're getting festive...trimming the tree...shopping for friends and family...exploring the foodie within...and immersing ourselves in the magic of Disney.
The Disneyland Resort has been transformed... Read More »
Published on Monday, December 5, 2011 by caryn
It's the season of giving, and while I found some incredible deals on Black Friday, I'm still struggling to find gifts for a handful of friends and family members. Interestingly enough, my greatest shopping challenges include finding gifts for close friends and family. When you've been shopping for the same person for years, it requires a bit of creativity to gift... Read More »
Published on Monday, December 5, 2011 by caryn
One of my favorite memories as a young, single woman were those last minute, impromptu visits to the theater (alone, at that). I've always been drawn to the arts, particularly musical theater, and at that time, dreamed of one day seeing a show on Broadway or in London. I've since seen numerous shows both on Broadway and in London, and while both are renowned for t... Read More »
Published on Monday, December 5, 2011 by caryn
One of our family's favorite Disney films is Toy Story 3, and very soon, Buzz, Woody, and the gang will be skating into Southern California for a spectacular production on ice. Toy Story 3 will come to life in the rink as the gang re-enact moments from the Disney/Pixar trilogy. Newcomers Ken and Lots-o'-Huggin' Bear will also make an appearance in this live prod... Read More »
Published on Friday, December 2, 2011 by caryn
As we approach the holidays, our family's focus shifts towards togetherness, tradition, food, and gift-giving. Every place I visit offers visual reminders of the holiday season. For those living in insecure households, this might be one of the most difficult times of the year, particularly because there is such an emphasis on food and "things."
This year, I'm findi... Read More »
Published on Friday, December 2, 2011 by caryn
If you'll be in the LA area this weekend, I definitely recommend checking out OVO Family Days, tomorrow December 3rd from 10 am to 1 pm. As you know, we're huge fans of Cirque du Soleil, and in advance of their upcoming winter performances under the big top in Santa Monica, they're hosting a day of face painting, chalk and balloon artists, interactive exhibits and m... Read More »
Published on Friday, December 2, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Katie. Congrats!
When I'm looking to be creative or simply gift something personal for a friend or family member, I'll often put together a themed basket. Baskets can simplify gift-giving, since the theme of the basket determines what types of items will be included. My husband is a definite coffe... Read More »
Published on Friday, December 2, 2011 by caryn
Despite the fact that I've lived in Southern California my entire life, I still find myself discovering something new on a regular basis. There is something about having kids that has stimulated my desire to explore and venture out. Perhaps it's because I want to show them the world...or at least this tiny corner of the world where we live. Or perhaps it's because... Read More »
Published on Thursday, December 1, 2011 by caryn
Earlier this year, I introduced my son to The Smurfs and he adores them. 2011 has been a year of nostalgia as I revisited some of the classics I enjoyed as a child.
On December 2nd, celebrate the holiday season with The Smurfs, will will be released on Blu-ray 3D and DVD as well as a 3-Disc Holiday Blu-ray/DVD Gift Set. The film, which is adorable, finds the Sm... Read More »
Published on Thursday, December 1, 2011 by caryn
One of the things I struggle constantly with as a parent is determining how much screen time is appropriate, and the type of programming that is acceptable. I know that when my son is watching Disney Junior, he's being exposed to age-appropriate content that is stimulating, educational, and interactive.
[caption id="attachment_28606" align="alignright" width="146... Read More »