Summer Parties With Fresh & Easy

I recently told you about Fresh & Easy’s healthy, affordable food choices for Summer barbecues.  Last week, the market hosted a wine and appetizer tasting event at the SmogShoppe in Los Angeles. Wine expert Richard Wherry (who speaks better Spanish than I do) gave us tips on selecting and serving wines.

Fresh & Easy offers 170 quality, affordable wines from all over the world including Napa Valley, Argentina. Chile, and Spain.  Eight of those wines are award-winning and most of them are under $10. With so many options, how does one go about picking the perfect wine?

Keep An Open Mind – Wines are made to be shared and enjoyed and should enhance the dining experience.   The important thing is to have fun and try something new!  There’s a wine that fits every taste and personality.

Expensive Doesn’t Mean Better – Popular brands and expensive bottles don’t always mean they’re better.  There are many wines for under $10 at Fresh & Easy that are great, high-quality blends.

Aperitif – Serve sparkling wine, which pairs well with most appetizers and is great for toasting the holidays, to stimulate the appetite and make celebrations more festive.

White v. Red – As a general rule of thumb, try to serve one white wine and one red wine at parties.  You want to pair lighter bodied wines with lighter dishes and fuller bodied wines with heavier dishes.  For example, white wines pair well with seafood, salad and chicken and red wines with red meats and saucy dishes.

For more information, just visit your local Fresh & Easy store.

No compensation was received for this post.  I attended an event and received a gift bag, courtesy of the company.

Summer Barbeques With Fresh & Easy

Over the weekend, our June gloom lifted a bit and I was reminded that summer really is in full swing.  One of the things I enjoy about summer is getting together with friends.  My husband and I are foodies, so our get togethers usually include a diverse array of eats and treats.

One of my favorite markets offers a variety of affordable, tasty foods to spice up summer picnics, barbecues, and gatherings.  To celebrate summer, Fresh & Easy has teamed up with award-winning grilling expert Neil Strawder (a.k.a. Bigmista) to barbeque for visitors to the store throughout the summer.  He will serve some of Fresh & Easy’s barbecue favorites and share his secrets to grilling.  Here is the list of participating locations:

10930 Rosecrans Ave

Norwalk, CA  90650

Time:  5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

2121 W. Main St. Suite 300

Alhambra, CA  91801

Time:  4:00 pm to 6:00 pm

19350 – A W. Nordhoff St.

Northridge, CA  91324

Time:  4:00 pm to 6:00 pm

*The first 100 people will receive a reusable bag.

Not only are their foods affordable, they’re free from artificial flavors, colors, trans fats, and mostly free from high fructose corn syrup.  Most of their condiments are under $3.00 (where can you get Organic Ketchup for $1.79?).  Their breads are one of my favorites because they are baked daily by Il Fornaio.  The store also offers a variety of whole grain breads if you’re looking to eliminate white flour.

Fresh & Easy’s desserts are always really yummy.  If you’re looking for something a bit on they healthier side, try their Soft Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies with Walnuts.  And if you’re looking for a great-tasting, affordable wine, check out The Vine Yard Pinot Gris ($6.99).  You can pair it with chicken, fish, and salad dishes and although it’s not sweet per se, it’s a blend of pear, honeydew melon, and citrus flavors which gives it a bit of a “fruity” flavor.

Here is a great recipe for a brine and a savory rub to help you get your grill on (courtesy of Fresh & Easy and Bigmista):

Brine:

1/2 cup salt

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 T. allspice

2 T. garlic powder

1/2 gallon water

Put all ingredients in a large plastic bag or a 16-quart pot and soak chicken for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. Discard the brine and rinse the chicken.  Pat dry with paper towels and rub with a flavorful marinade.

Savory Rub

4 parts kosher salt

4 parts garlic powder

2 parts black pepper

1 part cayenne

Can be used with any type of meat.

No compensation was received for this post.  Product samples were provided to facilitate this review.

What’s Next at the Disneyland Resort?

Over the past few weeks, we’ve been making the most of our Disneyland annual passes before the summer season is in full swing. The resort is always bustling with newness and innovation, while still retaining it’s history…it’s familiarity.

A few weeks ago, I attended the resorts media briefing and got a glimpse of what’s to come.

World of Color is drawing audiences from all over the world (I actually spoke to a girl from Australia on holiday one of the days we were visiting) with it’s powerful fountains, larger-than-life projections, lasers, fire, music, and special effects. (Year-round)

The Disneyland resort’s summer line-up includes Fantasmic! with its new dragon, Magical fireworks starring Tinker Bell and Dumbo (we’ve seen this every night for the past month), Tomorrowland Terrace TLT Dance Club, and Pixie Hollow Enchantment.  (Now through August 29, 2010)  In the fall, Rapunzel (who will star in the upcoming animated feature Tangled) will greet guests in Fantasyland.

Disney California Adventure Park is all aglow with the colorful, exciting entertainment of Glow Fest.  (Now through August 22, 2010).

Looking ahead, Disney Cruise Line will move to Southern California (yes…I’m jumping up and down).  The Disney Wonder will make regular sailings to Alaska from Vancouver and to the Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles.  The most exciting news is that kids (under the age of 17) are free from January 23 to March 20, 2011 on seven-night cruises to the Mexican Riviera (must be accompanied by two full-fare paying guests).

2011 will also bring The Little Mermaid to Disney California Adventure Park with it’s immersive, under the sea experience called Ariel’s Undersea Adventure.  And in 2012, Cars Land makes it’s debut.  I saw the model for this at D23 and I can’t even imagine how incredible it’s going to be.  The 12-acre expansion will include 3 new attractions.

I like to stay up-to-date with what’s happening with the park, so I’ll post updates as they come.

Just a glimpse at what a media briefing is like at the Disneyland Resort.

Photo Credit: Copyright Disney. Used with permission. No unauthorized use.

No compensation was received for this post.

Summer Safety – Part 2

Summer is my favorite season…despite the fact that temperatures can climb into the 100′s in mid-July and August.  Grilling with friends, lazy days at the beach…  We have a ton of things planned this summer…and safety is at the forefront.

Because I tend to be picky with food, and have a sensitive stomach, I’m always cognizant of food safety.  I recently attended a webinar with NSF International.  I came away with several tips on avoiding food poisoning staying healthy and safe this summer:

Grilling

1.  Defrost Foods Safely

2. Practice Proper Marinating

3.  Keep Hot Foods Hot and Cold Foods Cold

4.  Cook with a Thermometer…Not With Your Eyes

5. Avoid Cross Contamination

Picnics

1.  Put Food at the Bottom With Ice Packs on Top

2.  Don’t Prepare Foods More than One Day Before Your Picnic

3.  Remember the One-Hour Rule

4.  Throw Out Leftovers

5.  Put Drinks in a Separate Cooler

6.  Carry the Cooler in the Passenger Area of the Car

7.  Avoid Taking Perishable Dishes

Travel

1.  Avoid Foods That Require Handling

2. Avoid Dishes Containing Raw or Undercooked Meat or Seafood

3. Avoid Salad Bars, Buffet Foods, Uncooked or Raw Fruits and Vegetables

4.  Avoid Street Vendors

5.  Avoid Dairy Products Unless You Know They Were Pasteurized

6.  Consume Safe Tap and Bottled Water

For more information on staying safe this summer, visit NSF International.

What are your tips for staying healthy this summer?

No compensation was received for this post.  I attended a webinar and received information and a gift for my participation.

NSF International is a not-for-profit public health and safety organization that writes standards and tests or certifies products against those standards in the areas of food, water, toy and dietary supplement safety.

Summer Safety – Part 1

Our warm, lengthy summers mean plenty of time outdoors.  With two littles to run after, safety is at the forefront of my mind.  Every year, 4,200 people go to the emergency room for pool or spa-related injuries and more than 200,000 children under the age of 14 are treated for play set related injuries.  My active 3 year old has had his share of minor bumps, scrapes and bruises…but fortunately nothing major.  Underwriters Laboratories, a leading product safety testing organization, offers some tips on keeping your kids safe this summer:

Water Safety

•Fence it in! If you have a pool at home, install a fence that is at least 4 feet high with a self-closing, self-latching gate.  Be sure the locking mechanism is high enough so a child cannot reach it.

•Deter them from climbing in! Cut overhanging tree limbs and remove chairs or ladders from the pool area to prevent children from climbing over the fence that surrounds the pool. Remove pool toys. Drain wading pools when done.

.•Keep it covered! Keep grates and drain covers in good repair and secured in place. Children should be taught to avoid these devices, as the suction from drain outlets can be strong enough to cause entrapment and drowning.

•Be prepared! Make sure you know infant and child CPR if you own a pool. Have emergency numbers posted nearby.  Have rescue devices (not flotation devices or inflatable swimming aids) such as UL-LISTED life preservers nearby.

•Supervise! Follow the 10/20 rule when you’re at the pool. The supervising adult needs to position themselves to be able to scan the pool every 10 seconds, and reach the water within 20 seconds.

Backyard Play Safety

Survey your available space! Make sure your backyard is large enough for playground equipment and offers visibility and security.  Be aware of obstacles including the garage, tree branches, utility poles, and wires.

Do your homework! Read and follow the manufacturer’s directions when setting up play set equipment.  Note weight and age requirements for the equipment you’re installing.

Keep them safe! Install protective surfacing (i.e. rubber tiles, mulch) under the play set, at least six feed
in all directions, to prevent serious injuries should a child fall.

Inspect! Make sure equipment is anchored safely in the ground, all equipment pieces are in good working order, S-hooks are entirely closed, and bolts are not protruding.

Look for potential dangers! Check for spaces that could trap children, such as openings in guardrails or between ladder rungs. These spaces should measure less than 3.5 inches or more than 9 inches.  Never attach ropes, jump ropes, clotheslines, pet leashes or cords of any kind to play set equipment which could pose a strangulation hazard.  Watch for potential trip hazards, such as rocks, tree stumps and concrete footings.  Before letting your child dig in, rake through the sand to check for debris, sharp objects, animal contamination or insect problems.

Supervise! Always supervise children on play set equipment to make sure they are playing safely.

Disney created several cute Lion King themed videos on safety…check them out here.

What are your tips for staying safe this summer?

I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Underwriters Laboratories. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Make a Splash This Swimsuit Season

Last week marked the beginning of summer, and with it came the warm Southern California weather I’ve been waiting for.  I’m so excited about our summer plans…park days, beach days, trips to amusement parks and water parks…and a huge trip at the end of the summer.  With all of the “water” activities we have planned, I have come to realize that the swimsuit is inevitable.  Now…my body is definitely not ready to be sporting anything more than a muumuu.

Fortunately Lands End has you (and I) covered…literally.  I have NEVER truly enjoyed swimsuit shopping.  Like most women, I’m self-conscious about showing that much of my body to complete strangers. But, I enjoy the beach and the pool and going to water parks with my family.  So…I grin and bear it and don the dreaded swimsuit.

Lands End conducted a survey of over 1,000 women and 8 out of 10 women (83 percent) admitted to wearing the wrong size swimsuit (you can include me in that statistic).  The result?  Saggy bottoms, too much cleavage, muffin top, and inadequate derriere coverage.  Swimsuit design has changed in the last several years.  Lands End offers high performance fabrics, a wide ranges of sizes and suits to flatter every body type including mix and match, one-piece, tankinis, bikinis, and even mastectomy suits.

Given the fact that there are over 150 items in their swimwear section, I was a bit overwhelmed.  Fortunately, you have the option of searching by size, color, bra type, body shape, anxiety zones, and control. My biggest problem right now is my baby belly that still persists, despite the fact that my daughter is 6 months old. So I searched for a swimsuit that would minimize my tummy-waist.  That narrowed my search down to 17…perfect!  I ended up choosing this tank swimsuit in Imperial Navy.

This swimsuit features a single-shoulder strap which is slimming, control lining to trim the waistline, shirred fabric across the torso to conceal and flatter, a supportive soft cup bra, and hardware at the strap to draw eyes up, away from the waistline.

The suit is made from quality fabrics (nylon/spandex) and withstood the washing machine on the gentle cycle (even though the suit should have been handwashed).  I like the way it wears…the control fabric doesn’t feel constrictive or unnatural.  And overall, I really feel like it slims me in the waist/tummy area.  I would (and am planning on) wear the suit in public and not feel self-conscious about it.

Lands End offers much in the way of support and advice for women searching for a swimsuit that fits properly and looks good.  At any time during your online shopping experience, you can chat online or via phone with a customer service representative who will assist you with finding an appropriate swimsuit. You can also use their Mix, Match, Relax interface on their website which will assist in choosing a swim collection (top, bottom, accessory).

Right now you’ll save 40% on select swimwear styles when you shop online.

No compensation was received for this post.  A product sample was provided to facilitate this review.

Camp Survival With Mabel’s Labels

The official start to summer was last week, and many children will be heading off to camp.  Once my son started school, I started labeling all of his clothes and shoes. I don’t expect that a 3 year old will be able to keep up with his stuff, but I don’t want to invest in new clothes, shoes, etc. should he lose them.

Mabel’s Labels is once again offering their Camp Pack, perfect for ensuring that everything you pack comes home with your child.  Each pack includes 15 Sticky Labels, 8 Shoe Labels, 2 Bag Tags, and 40 Iron-Ons or 50 Tag Mates. I’ve actually used most of the company’s products and I am most impressed with how long the labels stay on.

For more camp-related information including info and tips, check out their free e-book entitled Mama of Many’s Guide to Camp.  You can also keep up with the company on their Facebook page.

No compensation was received for this post. I am a Mabel’s Labels Buzzmama and periodically receive information and products.

Ten Tips for Looking and Feeling Great This Summer *Giveaway*

This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by.  The winner is Erica C. Congrats!

Summer is here, and while I’m looking forward to beach days and Disneyland nights, I’m not looking forward to wearing a swimsuit.  My daughter was born exactly six months ago and I still have baby weight to shed.  If you read my blog during that time in my life after my son was born, you may remember that I don’t start really losing the weight until I stop nursing.  It appears to be the case this time around as well.

As a woman and a mom, I strive to look and feel my best.  Eating the right foods and getting out for some exercise is important for my body.  I want to stay healthy for my family and myself. E! News host Giuliana Rancic partnered with Tropicana Trop50 to offer 50 summertime tips on looking and feeling great this summer.  Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Plan ahead to fight mid-day snack attacks without ruining your diet.  Keep a stash of healthy, single-serving snacks on hand.

2. At every meal, make sure your plate is covered with half veggies, a quarter protein, and a quarter starch.

3.  For a sweet treat, make homemade popsicles from Tropicana Trop50.  Simply pour Tropicana Trop50 into an ice tray, freeze, and enjoy. The bold new flavors of Tropicana Trop50 Pomegranate Blueberry and Pineapple Mango will satisfy your sweet tooth with 50 percent less sugar than fruit juice (it’s sweetened with Stevia!).

4. Don’t have time for hour-long workouts? Brisk 10-minute walks increase your energy and improve your mood.

5.  Give the TV, computer,  Twitter, and Facebook a break and go for a walk! It will clear your mind and reduce stress.

What are your tips for looking and feeling great this summer?

Win It! One of you will win a $10 gift card to Bloomingdales and some discount coupons for Tropicana Trop50.  Simply leave me a comment with one of your favorite tips from the site (not previously mentioned above).  Comments will close on July 5, 2010 at 11:59 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn. Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

No compensation was received for this post.  I received a gift card, courtesy of the company.

Summer Stays at Residence Inn by Marriott

Between my husband’s business travels, our annual trips to see family, and planned vacations, we stay in a lot of hotels.  My husband frequently gets put up in the Marriott and on occasion, we’ve stayed at their Residence Inn properties (most recently, their San Diego property).

If you have summer travel plans with your family, I recommend looking into Residence Inn by Marriott for your accommodations.  Their rooms (which are really more like suites) are spacious and include numerous amenities such as a kitchen, complete with microwave, stove/cooktop, dishwasher, and dining table, free hot breakfast, and free internet access.  Staying at the Residence Inn by Marriott has the look and feel of an apartment (as opposed to a hotel), considering that their rooms include a living area. Most properties have a pool and outdoor recreational area.

Residence Inn by Marriott offers 600 locations across the U. S. and Canada, most in central locations.  For information on their latest deals, or to book a stay, just visit their website.

Stay tuned!  I have a fun Marriott giveaway coming up!

“I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Residence Inn by Marriott and received a chance to win a weekend stay at a Residence Inn to facilitate my candid review. Mom Central also sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.”

Family Game Night

I hope you’re having a FAB summer!  I spent the first part sick all day and all night, but thankfully, it’s pretty much over (except the occasional bouts of nausea).  Earlier this year we purchased a Nintendo Wii Entertainment System.  I’ve primarily used it with the Wii Fit to lose weight up until I got pregnant with our second baby.  However, there are soooo many fun games I’d love to get for our family.  And I’m a total Mario addict (have been ever since my parents bought me Super Mario Bros as a child).

If you have children, then you know that it can be a struggle to find things to do in the summer (particularly when we’re all concerned about the recession).  While I don’t believe children should sit playing video games all day, I do believe they can be a fun, educational form of entertainment.  Where do you go to get games?  I usually look online.  However…I was recently re-introduced to GameStop, a family-friendly source for entertainment.  The store has family-friendly games for every entertainment system imaginable and I love the fact that they offer pre-owned titles at affordable prices.

GameStop recognizes that many of us are struggling financially, so they have declared every Tuesday Night from June 23 through September 1 Family Night In.  Any family who makes a purchase on a Tuesday will receive an extra 20% trade-in credit on pre-owned games good towards the reserve or purchase of select Family Night In video game titles, coupons for $3 off any Baskin-Robbins cake purchase of $15 or more, and the opportunity to enter the Family Night In sweeps (ten families each week will be awarded a $25 gift card redeemable at a food vendor or restaurant of their choice for dinner and a Brownie a la Mode cake for dessert, courtesy of Baskin-Robbins).

We went in and purchased 30 Family Party:  30 Great Games for the Wii (with a gift card given to us by the company).  I like that up to four players can play (which is great for encouraging the entire family to play together). Some of the games include track and field and playground games.  It’s very interactive and a fun way to “compete.”  And it doesn’t only feature “physical” games but those that challenge your mind.  I may be old, but it took me just a bit to get used to using the control the way it’s supposed to be used to manipulate the character.

Overall, our experience at GameStop was favorable.  The store we visited provided us with excellent customer service by greeting us when we arrived and assisting us in choosing a family-friendly title.  Be sure to visit your local store all summer long.

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