Published on Saturday, July 30, 2011 by caryn
My son is probably going to go just a bit nutso over the fact that this Wednesday, we'll be hitting the red carpet for the premiere of Phineas and Ferb The Movie: Across the 2nd Dimension! The film, which is based on Disney Channel’s #1 animated hit comedy series, is set to debut on Friday, August 5th at 8:00 PM ET/PT on the Disney Channel and Saturday, August 1... Read More »
Published on Saturday, July 30, 2011 by caryn
Now that my daughter has mastered the art of getting around on her own two feet, she doesn't just walk...she runs! If you think infancy is tough, toddler-hood offers it's own set of unique challenges. That new-found ability to get around equates to freedom in the mind of a 1 1/2 year old. To channel that energy and curiosity, I strive to offer her age-appropri... Read More »
Published on Saturday, July 30, 2011 by caryn
If you're SoCal Centric and your littles are fans of Dinosaur Train, join Pretend City and PBS SoCal TOMORROW for some prehistoric fun with Buddy! Activities include digging for dinosaurs at the Beach, making dino-inspired art projects in the Art Studio, and watching episodes from Dinosaur Train. Buddy will also be at the museum so don't forget to snag a photo.
W... Read More »
Published on Saturday, July 30, 2011 by caryn
It's been strangely quiet around here, but with good reason! We are in Mammoth, California hiking, swimming, camping and enjoying the great outdoors! This coming week, I'll have some amazing photos and posts on our trip. But for now, here is a shot I took when we first arrived (taken with my iPhone while driving in the car)!
Have a rockin' weekend!... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, July 27, 2011 by caryn
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[caption id="attachment_25958" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Photo Credit: ozndrl"][/caption]
I don't remember when I became keenly aware of the fact that boys and girls are different. Perhaps it was that time in elementary school when Dominic kept bouncing his feet on the back of my chair...or when Justin told me I couldn't play Tetherball wit... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, July 26, 2011 by caryn
[caption id="attachment_25946" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Photo Credit: cienpies"][/caption]
We haven't even dried off from the pool and I'm already talking about the "s" word! : )Â Back to school season is rapidly approaching, and while we don't like to think about it, it will soon be time to think about school supplies, clothing, lunches, and... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, July 26, 2011 by caryn
[caption id="attachment_25940" align="aligncenter" width="388" caption="Photo Credit: ONE"][/caption]
I am so amazed and inspired by the women...the mothers who are going outside of their comfort zone to speak and advocate for women in need. Today's guest post comes from Cooper Munroe, co-founder of The Motherhood. She writes about her experience si... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, July 26, 2011 by caryn
[caption id="attachment_25934" align="aligncenter" width="614" caption="Photo Credit: Disney"][/caption]
I love the theater...the way the music evokes emotion...the connection between the audience and the cast...the sets which bring the story to life. Disney's Mary Poppins recently made it's debut at Segerstrom Hall, complete with tap dancing on the ceiling... Read More »
Published on Monday, July 25, 2011 by caryn
[caption id="attachment_25950" align="alignleft" width="147" caption="Photo Credit: Newport Landing"][/caption]
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is lilshuga2001. Congrats.
There are still many sunshine-filled days left of summer and we're aspiring to do something different in the next few weeks. While I've been on many a boat (both... Read More »
Published on Monday, July 25, 2011 by caryn
Today, ten women begin their journey through Kenya with ONE to see what life is like for women and moms living in the developing world. These women, many of which I know, are amazing...they are using social media for good and I am so honored to be partnering with them in their journey.
What is ONE? The organization fights extreme poverty and preventable disease... Read More »
Published on Sunday, July 24, 2011 by caryn
It's almost too good to be true...an entire weekend focused on chocolate! This weekend, July 29th through 31st, you can get your chocolate fix at Chocolate: The Event, which will be held on the streets of downtown Anaheim. Southern California's premier chocolate, coffee, wine, and music festival will feature chocolate and wine tastings, gourmet coffee and dessert sa... Read More »
Published on Sunday, July 24, 2011 by caryn
It's almost here! The largest conference for women in social media will take place in sunny San Diego this year and I'm thankful to be attending, once again, with Bumble Bee Foods. As always, there is so much to do and see in just a short amount of time. Thankfully, BlogHer will be held in a city that is almost like a second home to us. At just an hour away, we... Read More »
Published on Sunday, July 24, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Amy. D. Congrats!
Hair (or lack of it) isn't really something people think about it until they're faced with a loss. But if you think about it, hair is so much a part of a person's appearance and identity. How often have you identified a person by the color, length, and/or type of hair on their he... Read More »
Published on Friday, July 22, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is julieh. Congrats!
Have you ever purchased a product, particularly if it's something you're using with your children, and shaken your head in wonder at the creator? When I was pregnant with my son, I did a ton of research on everything from childbirth and infancy to safety and best baby gear. The most ... Read More »
Published on Thursday, July 21, 2011 by caryn
He's back! And he's cuddlier and hungrier than ever. Winnie the Pooh opened in theaters last week with it's clever and humorous story and heartwarming characters. Pooh has always been my favorite Disney character so I went in to preview the film with high expectations. The adorable full-length film, with a story line inspired by three of A.A. Milne's stories, was prod... Read More »
Published on Thursday, July 21, 2011 by caryn
Summers here in California are about spending time with family, exploring Southern California from a kid's perspective, and splashing in our community pool! We're having the best summer ever complete with swim days, afternoons at Disneyland and outdoor camp outs.
Active children, like my son, require outfits that are versatile, durable, and stylish! Check out my so... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, July 20, 2011 by caryn
With warm weather and summer vacations, it's the perfect time to get together with friends and family. In the last few months, I've really been challenging myself to come up with fresh, healthy, delicious recipes that can be made quickly without a lot of effort.
Last weekend, Laura, Amy, Aracely, Katie, Liz, and I joined forces to come up with a variety of health... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, July 19, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Sindy. Congrats!
The wildly popular show about two stepbrothers who set out each day to make the most of their summer vacation is hitting the big screen! On August 5th, the Disney Channel Original Movie Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension will debut. In the film, the "brothers" set out on... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, July 19, 2011 by caryn
We danced...
Marveled in wonder at the acrobats...
Were blown away by the magnificence and speed of Shiley the Cheetah...
And oohed and aahed over giraffes, rhinos, and buffalo...
I grew up in Southern California, but last week was my very first visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. On the contrary, I have been to the San Diego Zoo more times... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, July 19, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winners are Tiffany, SaraLee, and Holly C. Congrats!
We're in the midst of summer and over here in Southern California it's been hot! Apart from simply dressing in lighter colors and less clothing (as in skirts and sundresses), I hadn't really thought much about wearing clothing specifically designed to keep ... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, July 19, 2011 by caryn
You may remember that Totsy recently held it's first travel sale last month. It was so popular, they're doing it again! This time, they're offering significant discounts on a spa getaway for two to Tuscany and Sedona, Arizona.
The private, invite-only shopping site frequently updates sales to include the latest from boutique and designer brands. At present you'... Read More »
Published on Monday, July 18, 2011 by caryn
Dinner is the only meal of the day where our family actually sits down together. Breakfast is often rushed and lunch is not typically eaten together. As part of my resolve to eat healthy, wholesome foods, I've been aspiring to cook dinner on most nights of the week. The level of chaos surrounding dinnertime is directly related to what's happened throughout the day... Read More »
Published on Monday, July 18, 2011 by jason
It is amazing to think that anything these days would take more than a few months to bring to market. As we learned at the Ford Trends Conference, Ford still does it the right way, which takes up to 4 years! Susan Swek, Chief Designer for Ford's Color and Materials team, explained the process from start to finish in the Global Design Convergence session. Color th... Read More »
Published on Sunday, July 17, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Deborah R. Congrats!
[caption id="attachment_25733" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Photo Credit: flaivoloka"][/caption]
Road trips, play dates, swimming, and more...that is what our summer has involved and we still have many sunny days left to play. In just a few weeks, we'll be hea... Read More »
Published on Sunday, July 17, 2011 by caryn
Thanks to SUBWAY® restaurants for sponsoring my post about summer fun with my kids. Check out the Kids Eat Free program at any LA area location! Just purchase any two subs, two sides and two drinks, and you can get a kid’s meal FREE!
In the past few weeks, I've been slacking off on the "I'm going to cook each meal from scratch" commitment I made at the begin... Read More »
Published on Sunday, July 17, 2011 by caryn
Oh how I love the precision and creativity that comprise the art of baking. I'd rather venture to make vegan muffins or chocolate chip scones with fresh whipped cream than struggle over a dinner recipe.
Now you can make those fancy desserts you see demonstrated on the Food Network with a little instruction from Executive Pastry Chef Richard Ruskell at the Montage ... Read More »
Published on Sunday, July 17, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Melissa P. Congrats!
In just a few short weeks, we'll be heading on our family vacation. Along with exploring some of the beauty in our home state, we'll be embarking on a camping adventure! We're aiming to hike, swim, roast S'mores, and enjoy the great outdoors.
The hubby and I are quite a... Read More »
Published on Saturday, July 16, 2011 by caryn
It's been some time since I've seen the infamous computer-animated DreamWorks film about the solitude-loving ogre who finds his life disrupted by a group of faery tale characters forced into his swamp. Shrek The Musical opened at the Pantages Theatre this week for a limited, three-week run. With catchy, upbeat music, a heartwarming story, and awe-inspiring v... Read More »
Published on Friday, July 15, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Amy V. Congrats!
When my children were born, my desire was to capture each moment...each milestone. I really delved into my passion for photography after I'd saved enough money to purchase a Digital SLR camera. Since then, I've taken thousands of photographs...many of which sit on my hard drive with... Read More »
Published on Friday, July 15, 2011 by caryn
As part of our journey towards sustainability, we strive to purchase locally grown items, particularly produce. We are fortunate to have access to local farmer's markets which offer seasonal,  locally-sourced produce and other goods.
If you happen to be local, The Langham Huntinton in Pasadena is hosting a Farm to Table Dinner to showcase seasonal produce from ... Read More »
Published on Thursday, July 14, 2011 by caryn
[caption id="attachment_25633" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Photo Credit: Minita"][/caption]
My parents always had two children...me and a dog. My father, in particular, absolutely loves canine companionship and takes care of his dog to the T. That dog is bathed, groomed and even dressed! He sleeps in his own plush bed inside their house and eats "he... Read More »
Published on Thursday, July 14, 2011 by caryn
There's something exciting and edgy about watching the sport of auto racing. Since we're in the middle of racing season, I thought I'd share a fantastic deal Walmart is offering on tickets to Nascar races across the country. For just $99, you'll receive 4 tickets, 4 drinks, 4 hot dogs, and a racing program. The price of tickets varies from race to race, but an ind... Read More »
Published on Thursday, July 14, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Katrina. Congrats!
Last week, I introduced you to SwimWays, a company dedicated to making swimming safe and fun. I'll have some important swim safety information coming up but I wanted to share the details on their very first Twitter party.
Tomorrow, July 14th at 9 pm EST, join SwimWays, the Sw... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, July 12, 2011 by caryn
There are a few "traditions" my son and I have when we visit the Disneyland Resort. We have to ride the monorail (even if it's just around the park) and we have to get a frozen apple. And while it's not necessarily a tradition, I can't walk down Main Street without stopping at Blue Ribbon Bakery for a Blended Mocha. Dining at the resort is as much a part of the ... Read More »
Published on Monday, July 11, 2011 by caryn
As a woman, I'm compelled to be cognizant...to be concerned...to be committed to being a part of finding a cure for breast cancer. Over the weekend, several of us are getting together and my hope is that at the very least, I will raise awareness about the disease and what is being done by Suan G. Komen For the Cure.Â
KitchenAid and Susan G. Komen For the Cure hav... Read More »
Published on Monday, July 11, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Elena. Congrats!
Last week I shared our experience with Cool Cuts 4 Kids. The child-friendly hair salon makes getting a hair cut exciting and interactive. Through the end of the month, you can print a coupon that will save you $5 on any service priced $11.95 or higher. Cool Cuts 4 Kids wants one o... Read More »
Published on Monday, July 11, 2011 by caryn
Two weeks ago, Cars 2 opened in theaters and my son still talks about the film. Fortunately, he has a few movie-inspired toys to keep the movie fresh in his mind. If you've been out shopping lately, you may have noticed entire sections devoted to all-things Cars 2. Along with cars from the film, you'll find clothing, bedding, playsets, and even learning laptop... Read More »
Published on Friday, July 8, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Steph. A HUGE congrats to her!
I'm not one of those natural cooks...the type that can whip up something amazing without ever looking at a recipe. I've been challenging myself the past 5 or 6 months to get creative with our meals. Most of my solutions don't require a lot of time or effort because I... Read More »
Published on Friday, July 8, 2011 by caryn
[caption id="attachment_25494" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Photo Credit: MeiTeng "][/caption]
What are your plans this summer? Splashing at the pool or your local beach? Learning and discovering at your local museum? Splurging for concert tickets? Enjoying a family day at your nearest amusement park? Summers here in Southern Californi... Read More »
Published on Friday, July 8, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winners are Barbara Long, D Schmidt, Ellie W., and Selene. Congrats!
Saturday mornings are the traditional breakfast days in our home. My husband will make waffles or I'll bake vegan muffins from scratch. And once a month (ish), we'll frequent my favorite breakfast location...Mimi's Cafe. I love the Pain ... Read More »
Published on Friday, July 8, 2011 by caryn
I remember the very first time we took my son for a haircut. He was about a year old and there were tears...both his and mine. At the time, my son had not acquired sufficient vocabulary to understand what was going to happen. We made it through, but it wasn't the most pleasant experience.
Last week, I took my now 4 year old son to get his hair cut. He's no lo... Read More »
Published on Thursday, July 7, 2011 by caryn
My son is learning how to spell his name and that has caused a lot of excitement. With only four letters to remember, he can identify his name when written on places like his cubby at school or the plaque in his room. A few weeks ago, we received an adorable shirt with my son's name and a few of his favorite characters from the hit Disney Junior series Chuggington.Â... Read More »
Published on Thursday, July 7, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Lisa. G. Congrats!
I remember when I used to scour the sale racks at Macy's and Nordstrom for deals on clothes, shoes, and accessories. While I still do this, most of my shopping is now completed online. These days, there aren't many items that you can't find a sale or discount on. I am signed u... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, July 6, 2011 by caryn
It was 99 degrees in Orange County today. As soon as we entered July, we also entered the dry, hot summers that California is known for. Fortunately, our community has a pool and we've been taking full advantage of it!
My son is four years old and hasn't received formal swimming lessons. My goal was to enroll him in lessons prior to this point, but a series o... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, July 6, 2011 by caryn
[caption id="attachment_25442" align="aligncenter" width="452" caption="Photo Credit: Disney"][/caption]
Winnie the Pooh holds a special place in my heart. He is the honey-loving bear I grew up with as a little girl, and to this day, holds his place as my favorite Disney character. On July 15th, Walt Disney Animation Studios will release Winnie the Pooh.Â... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, July 6, 2011 by caryn
[caption id="attachment_25437" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Photo Credit: mexikids"][/caption]
As a young girl, you would often find me with a book in hand, reading every moment I could. Despite the fact that my time is very limited during this stage of my life, I still have a strong, deep-rooted passion for reading. Technology has innovate... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, July 6, 2011 by caryn
Ten days ago, Disney/Pixar's animated film Cars 2 raced to the #1 spot at the close of opening weekend. My son can't stop talking about the film, and it helps that we have some movie-inspired toys to keep us occupied. We've also been "training" with Finn McMissile in Cars 2: The Video Game.
[caption id="attachment_25422" align="aligncenter" width="488" caption="P... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, July 5, 2011 by caryn
Pizza, a favorite in our household, is one of those dishes that can be very easy to make if you decide to use a store-bought crust, sauce, and toppings. However, I prefer to make some of the components, specifically the dough, from scratch because I can control the types of ingredients used.
Restaurants across the country are now offering gourmet versions of thin, ... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, July 5, 2011 by caryn
With the re-opening of Star Tours-The Adventures Continue (now in 3D) and the debut of The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, summer at The Disneyland Resort is shaping up to be lively, musical, and magical. Disney California Adventure Park, in particular, is in the process of undergoing a host of changes, some of which include a brand new design for the... Read More »
Published on Monday, July 4, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winners are Katharina and Kathleen. Congrats!!!
We are snackers...nibblers...grazers. If we ate small, frequent, healthy meals this wouldn't be a problem. But as a family, we tend to like more snacks than we should, so I don't keep a large supply on hand. Instead, we strive to keep the indulgences to the oc... Read More »