Published on Friday, May 17, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
I remember the day my son asked me if he could have sushi. My jaw sort of dropped, but since I didn't want to give him a reason to change his mind, I allowed him to select a cooked variety that we both agreed he might enjoy. That was the beginning of his love for the Japanese delicacy. We tend to be on the crunchier side, so while I'm always looking for healthy ... Read More »
Published on Friday, May 17, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
4,321.
That is the number of photos I currently have on my iPhone.
I obviously take a lot of photos, but sadly, most of those simply live on my iPhone or my laptop. Andrew Harvey once said that “your best camera is the one you have with you," and if you know me, then you know that I LIVE that quote! Those photos (and videos) I hold on my iPhone are more th... Read More »
Published on Thursday, May 16, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
It's been YEARS since I picked up a crayon or a marker to color, but earlier this week my children and I got creative with Crayola's new Mess Free Color Wonder products. I should really color more often because it's incredibly relaxing and therapeutic.
If you saw my DIY project this week, then you also saw the "art" my children created all over their toy box. U... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
As a Kellogg's ambassador, I am compensated for my time and honest opinions.
You know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day...but do you know why? And what constitutes breakfast? Coffee and a donut? A banana inhaled on the way to work?
Tomorrow, May 16th, 2013, the Kellogg Company will host it's first Twitter chat to discuss the importance o... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
Just a couple of years ago, I struggled to find infant and child-specific skin care products that did not contain harmful chemicals. But as parents began to demand that parabens and phthalates be replaced with botanicals and organics, companies such as Berjang were born.
This week, Totsy launched a sale featuring TooFruit Skincare products for kids. What sets t... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
No compensation was received for this post. Review/Giveaway items provided by Disney.
I don't think it's a coincidence that my daughter's favorite show is Doc McStuffins, which airs each morning on Disney Junior. The show, which premiered last year, follows the stories of Doc, a six-year-old girl who fixes stuffed animals and broken toys outside in her backyard... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, May 14, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
Update: All of the tickets for the screenings in Houston, San Diego, Los Angeles, Miami, Phoenix, New York, and Chicago have been claimed. I still have family four-packs available for El Paso, San Jose, and Dallas.
An afternoon (or evening) out at the movies is one of our favorite ways to escape from the heat, and as summer quickly approaches there will be a sle... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, May 14, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
No compensation was received for this post. I was invited to the Club Penguin Headquarters by Disney and provided travel/accommodations. All thoughts/opinions remain solely that of the author.
We live in a digital world, fueled by technology that continues to advance at lightning speeds. So when I tell you that my son has been "online" (I'll describe exactly ... Read More »
Published on Monday, May 13, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
A couple of years ago, we purchased some colorful modular furniture cubes from ViaBoxes and used them to store my children's toys. Over the years, the colors that were once vibrant have dulled. These boxes, which still have a lot of life in them, are beginning to see the wear of two small children. Since these boxes are made of wood, I decided to give them a bit... Read More »
Published on Monday, May 13, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
It's 90 degrees today, and knowing what our weather is like here in Southern California, we are in for a very hot summer! I'm home working today, but what I really want to be doing is lounging by the pool or dipping my toes in the Pacific Ocean!
I don't love heading out in a swimsuit, but after last week's inspiration from Dove, I thought I'd embrace the beauty wit... Read More »
Published on Monday, May 13, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
My father loved roller coasters. In fact, there was very little he feared, so when he took me up and upside down for the very first time on Montezooma's Revenge, I was nervous, but not fearful. He inspired my love for adventure and thrills and always encouraged me not to be afraid...to try new things...to live life.
[caption id="attachment_42928" align="alignce... Read More »
Published on Sunday, May 12, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
Thank you to Clear, for sponsoring this Girl's Day Out. Compensation and prizes provided to help facilitate this event.
Spending time with girl friends used to be spontaneous and regular. But with two small kidlets, a husband with an erratic work schedule, and a busy work-at-home job that isn't always predictable, I find that if isn't on the calendar, it doesn't... Read More »
Published on Sunday, May 12, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
As a young Latina girl growing up in the suburbs of Los Angeles, my parents wanted my story to be different. I would be the first one to finish college and go on to become a health care professional. While I never knew or felt it at the time, my parents literally worked, saved and sacrificed so that I could have the kind of education that would foster my academi... Read More »
Published on Friday, May 10, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
In my never-ending effort to take an off-the-beaten-path approach to food, I decided to attempt a Strawberry Gazpacho earlier this week. Our family adores strawberries, and now that they can be found in abundance, we stocked up by purchasing FIVE pounds to cook and bake with. The price of strawberries varies throughout the year, but May is National Strawberry Mont... Read More »
Published on Thursday, May 9, 2013 by jason
Last week we took the kids to the zoo to learn about koalas in anticipation of the upcoming release of Koala Kid. They loved getting an up-close look at their habitat and learning about what how they live, including their "diet." After their koala encounter, they were primed to get a sneak peak at Koala Kid, a new animated feature from 20th Century Fox and Walma... Read More »
Published on Thursday, May 9, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Wen. Congrats!
Our summers here in Southern California can get quite warm so an escape to cooler (and wetter) places is typically in order. If you're looking for things to do in Southern California with kids this summer, a trip to Knott's Soak City may just be the perfect activity to cool down. Fo... Read More »
Published on Thursday, May 9, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
Grocery shopping is one of our biggest weekly expenses, so naturally, I'm always looking for ways to save money. Cutting coupons, perusing store ads, and shopping for items on sale typically help lower our weekly bill. Additionally, I try to buy generic brands when I know that the quality of the items will not be compromised.
If you shop at Walmart, then you li... Read More »
Published on Thursday, May 9, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
One of the joys of living so close to my son's school is the opportunity to use our walking time as a way to catch up or prepare for the day ahead. I also remind him each day about the importance of paying attention to the surrounding environment, including any vehicles that might be coming his way.
Two years ago, Chuggington partnered with the National Hig... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, May 8, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
With Mother's Day less than one week away, I've been brainstorming gift ideas for the moms in my life. Traditionally, I've thought about those things that I would want if I were receiving the gift. "Me" time, a couple of hours at the spa, a meal that satisfies my inner foodie, or a quick staycation all top my list of Mother's Day gifts that rock! My husband has ... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, May 7, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
A few weeks ago, Jason and I were discussing what our lives were like before we had kids. What did we do? Did we stay up late watching reality TV? Did we jet off for weekend getaways? Parenthood has a funny way of creating windows of amnesia, yet I fully remember sleeping in Saturday mornings and taking turns making each other breakfast (although sadly, never ... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, May 7, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
Giggles...splashes...squeals... Those are the sounds of my kids during bath time. But it wasn't always this easy...or fun. Even as babies, my kids would protest the dreaded bath. Whether it was the fear of getting wet or simply fear of the unknown, I'll never really know. What I do know is that I can't have dirty children! So early on, I decided to get creativ... Read More »
Published on Monday, May 6, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
In my view you cannot claim to have seen something until you have photographed it.
- Emile Zola
It's probably redundant to say that I love to take photos. If you've ever met me in person, than you know that I likely have at least one, if not two cameras in hand. Andrew Harvey once said that "your best camera is the one you have with you." Some of my best phot... Read More »
Published on Monday, May 6, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
We make the kind of movies we like to watch. I love to laugh. I love to be amazed by how beautiful it is. But I also love to be moved to tears. There's lots of heart in our films.
-John Lasseter
Eight years ago, Monsters University was simply an idea. Following the success of Monsters, Inc., Disney/Pixar knew that they wanted to bring Mike and Sulley back to ... Read More »
Published on Sunday, May 5, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
This is part of a compensated campaign with Verizon FiOS Southern California.
The box office reports are out, and as predicted, Iron Man 3 opened strong! Surpassed only by Marvel's The Avengers, Iron Man 3 broke records and now holds the number 2 spot for films with the highest grossing opening.
The third installment in the series is an exciting, action-filled s... Read More »
Published on Friday, May 3, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
You know, it's times like these when I realize what a superhero I am
- Tony Stark, Iron Man 3
Audiences know to expect action when they see a superhero film, and Marvel's Iron Man 3, in theaters today, does not disappoint in this area. But what was pleasantly surprising about the epic superhuman sequel is the heart and humor that gives dimension to the story.
We... Read More »
Published on Friday, May 3, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
For many, Cinco de Mayo in both America and Mexico, this weekend is a time for celebration and remembrance. Observed on May 5th, it is a day for Mexican and Mexican-American communities to rejoice in their freedom and democracy while commemorating their culture's heritage and pride.
While I myself identify with the Puerto Rican culture, there is a camaraderie I fee... Read More »
Published on Friday, May 3, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
Playdates...Kids love them because they get to spend time with their friends, typically engaging in unstructured play. Parents love them because it allows for adult interaction and alleviates some of the stress of having to plan an activity for their children. Most of our playdates are simple...an afternoon at the park...ice cream and open play at our local indo... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, May 1, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
I hope I can protect the one thing I can't live without -Tony Stark
Sometimes, I'll walk away from a film moved...inspired...compelled to go out and do something. Other times, I'll walk away wowed, thrilled, or simply entertained. Regardless of why someone goes to the movies, that 2 to 2 1/2 hour chunk of time is designed to take audiences away from the reality o... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, April 30, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
During the week, breakfast is often a rushed, haphazard affair, and despite my best attempts at planning, I still find myself running out the door with a banana in hand as an afterthought. Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day and it's also the most important so regardless of how much time we have in the mornings, I never let my children leave the house without eat... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, April 30, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
When you believe in a thing, believe in it all the way, implicitly and unquestionable.
-Walt Disney
I truly believe that so much of Walt Disney's renowned success can be attributed to his steadfast commitment to telling stories. This man, who began his career at the age of 19, was an innovator in the realm of film and animation. Just a few of his noteworth... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, April 30, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
I wish I had captured the response of my son when I told him we would be having a mini sleepover at the LEGOLAND Hotel. My son is an avid LEGO fan, and for months we've talked about visiting the hotel. His eyes were wide with excitement and awe when I told him that we would be sleeping in a Kingdom-themed room AND that both him and his sister would have a specia... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, April 30, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
This is part of a sponsored campaign with Filtrete. All opinions are solely that of the author.
One of my new favorite things to do is watch my son play T-ball. He started Little League for the first time earlier this year, and surprisingly, it has turned out to be a good thing for our entire family. The benefits of sports for kids are numerous...social interac... Read More »
Published on Monday, April 29, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
Last month, the new 24 Disney Junior channel launched here in the US, and as a family, it really changed how our children watch television. Some of our kids' favorite shows air on Disney Junior, and they no longer have to miss them because of school. We've seen several new shows launch in the past year including Sofia the First, Doc McStuffins, and Octonauts, and ... Read More »
Published on Friday, April 26, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
One of the things I love about writing this website is the opportunity to give you sneak peaks at new products and behind-the-scenes information about experiences. To this day, I look to fellow moms when I am making a decision about a product or whether to bring my 3 year old to the latest animated film. While new, up-and-coming, and exciting characterize a large pa... Read More »
Published on Thursday, April 25, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
It is just a matter of time before my husband and I will be purchasing a new car. We are incredibly fortunate to have invested in a brand that makes quality vehicles, as our current SUV has over 270,000 miles on it! But along with reliability, safety, fuel efficiency, and durability, we both value comfort and luxury, and have a few items on our "wish list" as we shop ... Read More »
Published on Thursday, April 25, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
As an only child growing up in Los Angeles, I never lacked for the basics. In fact, it wasn't until middle school that I realized my parents were by no means wealthy. I was the first in my immediate family to go to college and my parents made a ton of sacrifices to provide me with private, quality education, facts I didn't truly appreciate until I was out of schoo... Read More »
Published on Thursday, April 25, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
Do you know what we don't do enough of? Picnics! We live less than 20 minutes from the beach, and the number of parks and open spaces in our community is endless. During our brief Spring Warm-Up, we packed up our picnic basket filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and other healthy snacks and headed to our local park for an afternoon outdoors.
My children love th... Read More »
Published on Thursday, April 25, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Soha. Congrats!
Headaches...just thinking about them gives me a headache! Stress, hormones, caffeine-withdrawal, and lack of sleep are just a few of the things I attribute to my headaches. Fortunately, I don't get them often enough to be concerned. But you won't find me anywhere without a bott... Read More »
Published on Thursday, April 25, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
I can't help but feel inspired as I walk amongst the beauty at Pixar Animation Studios. At any given time, there are hundreds of creative minds dreaming up the latest project, but you wouldn't know it because the campus is intently quiet and serene.
Earlier this month, I jet-setted off to Emeryville, California to get "schooled" on the studios' latest animated ... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, April 24, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
Have you ever refrained from doing something because it just seemed to difficult? That is how I've always felt about jams, jellies, and preserves. I'm a huge proponent of eating healthy foods made from all-natural ingredients, and very often, store-bought varieties contain high fructose corn syrup and artificial colors and flavors. Traditionally, we've picked up our... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, April 23, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
For the first time in months, we had a weekend so warm, it felt like summer! My children love the outdoors, and now that we're in the midst of a warming trend, our family will be spending more time together enjoying the warm sun, fresh flowers, and shady trees. The current state of our backyard resembles more of a playground than anything since it houses a climber, ... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, April 23, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Rhonda S. Congrats!
As a working mom, I've had to refine my multi-tasking skills in order to have time to accomplish everything I need and want to do with the least amount of stress. My mobile and tablet devices have become an integral part of my ability to get things done from practically anywhere.... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, April 23, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Dasha. Congrats!
As soon as I hear my children giggling uncontrollably, I know exactly which app they have running. With over 400 million downloads, Disney's Talking Friends have become a global phenomenon, the most notable being Talking Tom. Introduced in 2009, the Talking Friends apps offer chil... Read More »
Published on Monday, April 22, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Fayth! Congrats!
Over the past year, I've watched my son become increasingly inquisitive about nature. Questions in the last month include what happens to bugs when they die and what the difference is between slugs and snails. His kindergarten teacher weaves nature into her curriculum, which I i... Read More »
Published on Monday, April 22, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
All month long, my kids and I have been talking about what we can do to be mindful of the earth and its precious resources. From turning off lights and watching how much water we're using to recycling and being cognizant of whether or not we're being wasteful, I've tried to make every opportunity a teachable moment for them.
Many people I've spoken to simply choo... Read More »
Published on Saturday, April 20, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
From the moment we moved into our home, I've wanted a designated space where I can write comfortably during my most productive hours (typically 10 pm until midnight) without disrupting the rest of my family. My husband and I have been working on my office and I am so happy with how it's turning out! We've modernized the design of the room, set up my work space and ... Read More »
Published on Saturday, April 20, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
I used to think that the sleeplessness and lack of time for myself was a season, confined to the infant/toddler stages of my children's lives. "When they are a bit older I'll work out...lose weight...catch up on my favorite episodes of Glee...read the novel I started during pregnancy..." It's been five years, and those hours I spent nursing, rocking, and taking... Read More »
Published on Saturday, April 20, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
As a child, one of my favorite mealtime memories involved eating pancakes, waffles, and egg dishes for dinner. "Brinner" was always exciting and often broke up the monotony of our regular dishes. Unlike lunch or dinner, I often struggle to decide whether I want a savory dish, such as a Spinach and Feta Frittata or something sweet like Belgium Waffles.
[caption ... Read More »
Published on Friday, April 19, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
Recently, my husband half jokingly told me he wanted to send me back to home economics. It's no secret that I lack in domestic skills, but in the past several years, I've worked to be better at cooking from scratch, crafting with the kids, and keeping our home organized. So when I told my husband that I was going to tackle a crochet project, he was admittedly a litt... Read More »
Published on Friday, April 19, 2013 by Caryn Bailey
Earlier this week, my daughter was sitting on our couch, "reading" a book aloud. She's only three, but we've read these books so many times in the past 3 years, she knows them from cover to cover. Even as infants, I recognized the importance of instilling a love for reading within my children. Story-time with my kids is one of my most cherished moments of the day, and... Read More »