Published on Friday, March 30, 2012 by caryn
I can't wait for summer! Have I mentioned that lately? While I love to bake and my kids enjoy getting crafty, we long to be outside running, jumping, exploring, swimming...did I mention swimming?
This year, my son will finally be able to swim, so we're gearing up to prepare for warm sunny days in the pool and at the beach. After cleaning out my son's drawers, I... Read More »
Published on Saturday, March 24, 2012 by caryn
What do you get a one-year old for his or her birthday? I've often struggled with that question, simply because during that second year of life, the transition from infancy to toddlerhood is profound. Developmentally, a 15 month old is much different than a 21 month old.
Last week, I introduced you to Bel Bambini, a specialty boutique featuring chic, designer m... Read More »
Published on Sunday, March 18, 2012 by caryn
My youngest recently turned two, signifying the end of the "baby" era...an era that has been bittersweet. I spent half of it wondering when it would get easier and the other half praying time would just stand still. But alas, unless something miraculous were to happen, my husband and I are pretty certain our cozy family of four is complete. That's not to say that ... Read More »
Published on Saturday, March 17, 2012 by caryn
Happy St. Patrick's Day! If you're local, head on down to Pretend City Children's Museum for their Family Fun and Wellness Fair! It's free!
... Read More »
Published on Saturday, February 11, 2012 by caryn
Having grown up in Southern California my entire life, I often find that while I've ventured all over the second largest city in the US, there are still many places to explore, particularly with my children. I love finding unique, off-the-beaten activities that offer memorable experiences.
Last week, my children and I headed over to see the brand new show that ... Read More »
Published on Friday, February 10, 2012 by caryn
Love is in the air! February is the month devoted to showing those closest to you how much you care for them. Red, white, and pink decor abound, and very soon, flower and chocolate shops will see an influx of last minute shoppers, in search of the perfect expression of their affection. I'm all about tradition but I also enjoy unique, out-of-the box ways to celeb... Read More »
Published on Saturday, January 21, 2012 by caryn
I probably shouldn't admit that while I'm writing this post, I'm finishing the last few bites of an Artie Lange cupcake from Crumbs Bake Shop...the remnants of my birthday celebration. I'll have to work out at least double time this week to counter the butter, chocolate, and cream cheese that make this cupcake so decadent. And speaking of working out, it's the new y... Read More »
Published on Friday, January 13, 2012 by caryn
It's the third highest grossing film series of all time...a worldwide phenomenon...and now...the force is back! On display at Discovery Science Center. Who would have thought there was an actual science to this fictional universe with it's humanoid robots, landspeeders, and X-Wing Fighters? Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination is the first exhibition to displa... Read More »
Published on Friday, January 6, 2012 by caryn
Christmas is so last year! But since this is a photography series, I thought I'd share some of my favorite shots captured via iPhone last week at Knott's Merry Farm which is the park's holiday transformation.
Unfiltered
What have you “captured” this week? Share your photos below!
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... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, January 3, 2012 by caryn
We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day.
-Edith Lovejoy Pierce
The new year is all about fresh starts...a chance to set new goals...an opportunity to transform habits...an endeavor to a new you.
Living in Southern California, it's easy ... Read More »
Published on Friday, December 30, 2011 by caryn
I know that my husband and I don't get in nearly the time together that we want and need. Busy schedules, small children, and life just seem to get in the way. But like all relationships, togetherness, conversation, and a bit of laughter are the "fuel" necessary to sustain it.
Plum District currently has a deal that will get you two Fandango movie tickets and a... Read More »
Published on Monday, December 19, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Darcy McDonald. Congrats!
In less than 2 weeks, we'll be ringing in the new year! In previous years, we have spent our New Year's Eve quietly at home with our littles. But this year, the hubby and I are getting a babysitter so that we can actually enjoy a some time out together as a couple.
If y... Read More »
Published on Sunday, December 18, 2011 by caryn
Tomorrow, Buzz, Woody, Jesse, and the gang will skate into Orange County! Disney On Ice Presents Disney-Pixar's Toy Story 3 at the Honda Center for a very limited run. Through Christmas, you can see the ice spectacular as moments from all three films are re-enacted in the rink.
Here are the dates for the remaining Southern California performances of Disney O... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 by caryn
'Tis the season for sweets and treats! Stores abound with baked goods this holiday season, however many are filled with preservatives, stabilizers, and ingredients only a scientist can read. We're nearing Christmas and if you simply don't have the time to bake something fabulous for your holiday gathering, check out the incredibly decadent cakes from Nothing Bun... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, December 13, 2011 by caryn
Last week, I spent a weekend in New York and was fascinated at how festive the city looks this time of year. Unlike Southern California, where holiday decor is most often seen in specific stores and venues, the entire city of New York is "dressed up" for the season, with virtually no area left untouched. SoCal locals and visitors' best bet for experiencing the mag... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, December 13, 2011 by caryn
Having grown up and lived in LA nearly my entire life, I can say without hesitancy that the OC has some of the most beautiful, well-kept parks in the Southland. Many of them are rich in history and offer much more than clean, safe places to play.
2011 marks the sixteenth year of the Christmas Train that's become a tradition at Irvine Park Railroad. ... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, December 13, 2011 by caryn
Having grown up in Southern California, I'm always amazed at the things we haven't done and the places we've never visited. During this time of year, it seems like there are endless family-friendly activities surrounding the holiday season.
Popular amongst families in the area, is the annual venture to see local displays of Christmas lights. Newport Dunes... Read More »
Published on Sunday, December 11, 2011 by caryn
Decorating gingerbread houses was a memorable tradition in my childhood home, and one I started with my son a few years back. Powell's Sweet Shoppe, our local candy store, which has this old-time look and feel to it, is offering pre-assembled cottages made from baked graham cracker to decorate this holiday season. For the past few years, we haven't bothered with h... Read More »
Published on Saturday, December 10, 2011 by caryn
As a young, single woman, I enjoyed browsing the sale racks at Macy's and trying on shoes at Steve Madden. These days, it's a rarity if I get an hour or two of uninterrupted time to myself, let alone some time to shop. Since my shopping ventures are almost always focused on my kids, my wardrobe is somewhat outdated. When I perused my closet for a dress that would ... Read More »