Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Science of Gingerbread Opens November 27th at Discovery Cube

Holiday Festivities are Headed to the Discovery Cube OC with the Science of Gingerbread!

Are you ready for more fun at the Discovery Cube OC with Holiday Cheer rolled into one!?

The Science of Gingerbread returns to the Discovery Cube with multiple activities for you and your family to enjoy. There are even builders needed for the Gingerbread fun. 

We have never attended the event before but will be heading there this year! We can not wait to let you know about all the fun that the Discovery Cube has to offer this winter season. 

Follow along and get all the updates HERE!

Activities Include: November 27, 2015 – January 3, 2016 #CubeWinter
  • Gingerbread Derby
  • Kitchen Chemistry Learning Station
  • Meet Santa and take your photo with him 
  • Cookie Decorating 
  • "Do You Want To Build A Snowman" show

Meet Santa on Select Days too!
November
Friday, 11/27/2015 – Sunday, 11/29/2015
December
Saturday, 12/5/2015 – Sunday, 12/6/2015
Saturday, 12/12/2015 – Sunday, 12/13/2015
Saturday, 12/19/2015 – Thursday, 12/24/2015

Grinchmas is Coming to Town!

Universal Has Gone GRINCH!


Hot off the press... we have never been to #Grinchmas before, but this look so very fun and entertaining!
PC Universal Studios Hollywood
Have you been before? Let me know in the comments below.

Happy WHOlidays!

+Universal Studios Hollywood 

The Entertainment Capital of L.A. Rings in the Holiday Season:
Universal Studios Hollywood Cel-Who-brates with 21 Days of “Grinchmas”
and Universal CityWalk Decks the Hall with Free Concerts, Nightly Snowfall
and Special Appearances by Santa Claus

Universal’s Winter Wonderland Holiday Festivities Take Place
November 27 through New Year’s Day 2016

Universal Studios Hollywood’s Newly Introduced Annual Passes
Add Christmas Cheer as Perfect Stocking Stuffer Gifts

Universal City, California – November 24, 2015 – It’s the most wonderful time of the year as Universal Studios HollywoodSM and Universal CityWalk® deck the halls for a wintry calendar of cool holiday activities at The Entertainment Capital of L.A.SM
very, merry “GrinchmasTM” returns to Universal Studios Hollywood as the theme park celebrates the Who-lidays with The Grinch, his faithful dog Max and a roster of Whos from the town of Who-ville.
“Grinchmas” runs weekends on December 5-7 and 12-13, then continues daily from December 18, 2015 through January 3, 2016.
The Universal Plaza, an elaborate grand piazza at the heart of the theme park, will serve as the backdrop for the lighting of the towering “Grinchmas” tree – a whimsical centerpiece twisting and spiraling 60 feet above visitors and providing the ideal setting for merry holiday making memories, while The Grinch, his adorable dog Max and the Who-villeWhos entertain guests nearby with fun-filled photo opportunities.
As part of the fab-Who-lous event, Martha May Who-vier and the Who Dolls will take center stage by the “Grinchmas” tree performing energetic musical sets to usher in the Christmas season in style.  The Wholiday Singers—a hip boy-band ensemble—will perform nightly a cappella concerts featuring a mix of Christmas favorites and pop rock.
The spirited “Grinchmas” event will also capture guests’ imagination with a variety of inspiring activities designed to create long lasting memories. These include:
·      Who-ville Post Office – Visitors will have a chance to partake in the “Grow Your Heart 3 Sizes” campaign when they share their good deeds on a postcard and mail them to The Grinch. In return, Dr. Seuss Enterprises, L.P. and Random House Children’s Books, the publishers of Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, will pay it forward by donating a book to a child in need through First Book on behalf of the sender.

·      Trim up the Tree Lot – Guests can design and personalize their own “Grinchmas” ornaments to help decorate the venue’s other “Grinchmas” trees or take them home as a keepsake.

·      Who-bilicious Cookie Dec-Who-rating – Freshly baked, ginger bread and Christmas tree cookies will be available for purchase, and guests can create their very own amazing treats with an assortment of delectable frostings and tasty toppers.

·      Story Time with Cindy-Lou Who – Cindy-Lou Who and her Who friends will gather guests of all ages – tall and small—for an engaging storytelling show of Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas, featuring special effects and audience participation.

The spirit of “Grinchmas” will also come to life aboard the world-famous behind-the-scenes Studio Tour with engaging performances by unforgettable Who-ville Whos re-enacting popular scenes and songs from the family favorite at the original film sets from the blockbuster film, “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”
Universal Studios Hollywood’s newly introduced Annual Passes add additional cheer to the holidays as special stocking stuffer gifts.  For more information or to purchase one of three new passes: the Gold Pass, the California Resident Plus Pass or the California Resident Pass, please visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com/tickets.
“Grinchmas” is included in the price of theme park admission.  More information is available atwww.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com.
The spirit of the season continues with a wintertime transformation of Universal CityWalk, beginning the day after Thanksgiving on Friday, November 27 through Friday, January 1, 2016.  A spectacular 40-foot tall Christmas tree will glistenwith 200,000 LED icicles choreographed to the lights and sounds of the season in the “5 Towers” plaza. Santa Claus will make nightly appearances and offer special photo opportunities at “5 Towers,” plaza complete with evening hourly snow falls at the heart of CityWalk.  Visits from St. Nick, along with free concert performances and an eclectic ensemble of talented street performers will make CityWalk the ultimate L.A. holiday destination.  Admission to Universal CityWalk is free.

HAVE A HAPPY GRINCHMAS!

Beautiful Winter Fantasy at the Sawdust Art Festival

Santa, Art, Crafting, food, drinks and more, the Winter Fantasy at the +SawdustArtFestival has something for everyone!

We have loved visiting the Sawdust Art Festival for years. Since I can remember my parents have taken us and now that I have kids we attend too. It is kind of tradition!
This year was the first year that we went to Winter Fantasy. The celebration of the Holidays has been going on for 25 years! 

There was a lot to see and do inside the festival grounds where there is always art to be seen. 
What can you expect to do and see?

* Santa - right in the middle of the festival there is a little house and if you time it right the snow flurries start and you can see both the big man himself and some snowfall. What I loved about this Santa, he looked and played the perfect part. My son was not listening to his best and started to jingle the bells, Santa told him to shake them and let the reindeer know that he was there. It was so sweet to see. He asked my 8yo what she wanted and when she said an American Girl Doll he said that those were super special for very responsible and nice girls. LOVED HIM! This was the first year my son did NOT cry with Santa. Score. 

* Art - There are two awesome Art stations to craft at. The crafts change each session and are super fun for all ages to do. Most are free but the ones that did cost were a dollar or two. at most. Both of the kids loved the Art spot. They made  snow man and were able to take their time doing so. My son got the help he needed and was let free to create his own version of rainbow snowman. My daughter loved the sticks and acorn she used for arms and a hat. So fun! This was a very sensory friendly activity and took up about 30mins. Parent is allowed to help. 
  
 Also a second location for art that was available is also where art is done regularly with kids for art classes. You can get all that info here!
 Both kids were able to do what they were comfortable doing. Zoe made a 12 piece hand drawn memory board game and Mikey was sitting coloring freely. Again, perfect for both kids and very sensory friendly. 
* Clay Station - On site there was clay molding. Pottery stands are there and with help, you can make a creation on the wheel. There are different costs depending if you wan to take what you make free un fired or get it fired for minimal cost. Very fun and again sensory friendly. All ages welcome. 

* Food and Drinks - there is plenty to snack on and plenty to drink. From BBQ to Mediterranean, wine to beer, you can fill your tummy if you want to!

 * Items for Sale and on Display - of course we loved looking at all the different art. Paintings, crafts, hand made jewelry, hand made ornaments, paintings and so much more. There is plenty to see and buy this year and it is all unique and beautiful. This is where I got my first toe ring in 1997. Talk about nostalgic. 

* Train Village display - check out what both of my kids and my husband could not get enough of. A super cute village where a train goes around and the WDW Monorail makes it's rounds too! So fun to see the different houses in the display too!
Everything was very cute and very full of creative spirit. You can tell that everyone displaying their wonderful items does so with passion for the arts. It really is a unique experience to see and show my kids.

Did you know that Zoomars Petting Zoo is on hand too. This was a huge help for my daughter when her brother decided to throw a fit. She was able to go in and have some animal fun. 

Thank you to Sawdust Art Festival for the invitation to attend and we will see you very soon!


#WinterFantasy #LagunaBeach #SawdustFestival #SawdustArtFestival #WinterFun #OC #ThingsToDo #Beach #FamilyFun #SensoryFriendly #AutismFriendly #StudioOne #Art #ArtClasses #pettingzoo

We Love CHOC Children's Hospital!

CHOC Children's Trauma Unit Visit

PC CHOC Children's
I was given the amazing opportunity to go behind the scenes of CHOC Children's Trauma Center. It is a division of the ER that is specifically ready for any "trauma" that may occur in children. 

Did you know that CHOC now has it's own Hospital and the trauma unit is two rooms exactly alike?
Before I get to the details of the well prepared rooms, I have to remind everyone that we have a soft spot for CHOC. 

Dr. Muhonen was the neurosurgeon that along with his team saved my nephews life, operating on him at just hours old, removing a stage 4 brain tumor 8 years ago. We are grateful for that and for the efforts given to my niece when she was born with heart disease and for my nephew who needed to have one of his kidneys removed last year. 

Just recently with my own son, it was suggested that, we see a neurologist. I have already called to schedule his appointment with CHOC neurology. I feel most comfortable in the care of the entire staff at CHOC.

As if we did not love CHOC already, after the tour I was able to take, I was set at ease knowing that if needed this hospital would be ready, able and willing to attend to my kids with the best care possible. 

The highlights of my visit with Choc Children's Trauma Center were focused on the reenactment of a real emergency - it truly was amazing to see these dedicated people ready to do whatever is needed to save a life:

* The newly opened CHOC is celebrating it's first birthday January 2016!

* Only CHILDREN'S Hospital in in OC that has pediatric focused trauma center. In our backyard. 

* Have Air Transport. They can fly to you!

* ER in general at CHOC is ready and staff is amazing but...trauma can treat children that's up to 14 that has had any traumatic injury!

* In Trauma Room - Both rooms come ready with all sizes of everything from needles to tubes, Neck braces to breathing masks.
* Each of the two trauma rooms comes ready with the top of the line electronics and tech machinery even that may be needed: a room warm up control, a glide scope for easy placement of breathing tube, a bedside ultrasound, Rapid Infuser that takes the amount of time needed to infuse an IV of blood or fluids from minutes to less than a minute. 
* ON site they have a pharmacy, ability to perform surgery, nurses, emt's, Chaplin and social work. 
* Child Life Specialist - something I found completely perfect and necessary. This team of about 25 works the entire hospital. Each is ready with the means to help kids ease their situation and comfort level with whatever the procedure or situation may be. They have IPads or Tabs that can help distract a child with their favorite show or game.
* Everything is electronic and can be seen with in the Hospital from Doctor to Special to Nurse. 

* Did you know that the Holidays bring on more room for traumas. It's know that there is less supervision, more drinking for some in home, and less helmets fastened properly. Keep an eye out for these safety measures that are most seen when kids come into the ER. 

* 40% of visits to CHOC Children's are related to falls. Of those, 35% are from windows! 

Knowing all of these things and seeing them, I am even more at ease knowing that if we needed to head to the ER and could make it, we would head to CHOC. 

If you have any other questions about CHOC ER and or Trauma Center, please let me know. If I do not know, I will find out!

Have a happy Safe Holiday everyone, 
OnTheGoOC


#CHOCChildrens #ChocTraumaCenter #CHOC Trauma #CHOC #CHOCTraumaUnit #Hospital #ER #bestinOC #OnlyOneInOC

Monday, November 23, 2015

My Kids Top 5 Must Do's at the Queen Mary CHILL!

We had a BLAST at CHILL !

Okay seriously QUEEN MARY CHILL was amazing. 

I was so excited to take my kids for so many reasons but the expectation was so beat by the reality of the actual experience. 
I am so sad for ONLY one thing, my husband had to work and missed it. WHY? There was so many FIRSTS for my kids at CHILL, I kind of wish I cold re-live it with him there so he too could see why my heart is so full!

I should start by saying that I was able to take the kids and experience everything on behalf of CHILL. In all honesty it was amazing. 

My Kids top 5 favs and must do's:

* ICE SKATING - Special to me in many ways. My daughter went out on her own on the ice for the firs time and loved it. My son, who is on the spectrum does NOT like to do certain things. I was so excited and almost cried a little when I heard him say, "I skate too mama..." THIS WAS A FIRST!! Score!
I immediately got his skates on and a dear friend helped take him around until I got on the ice, he did not want to exit the rink. CHILL has plenty of dolphins to assist in the skating for anyone who needs it. There are specific times of skating so catch it early in the time slot for the fullest time of fun. Makes it much easier for my kiddo to maintain his sensory overload. Lockers available, cool, huh!
Ice Skating with a little helper!
* Walking on board the Queen Mary - CHILL tickets come with entry to the Queen Mary and it is well worth it to save a little time a the end of your evening to unwind walking on board and enjoying some of the historic facts. Make sure to catch a view of CHILL in it's entirety on level 2 or 4 of the boat on the right side and a view of the whole city of Long Beach and it's skyline from the left side. 

There are also "Quiet Areas" of the boat and they are labeled. This made is easy for me to know where to take the kids. Zoe is super quiet but Mikey not so much. Super Autism helper there!

* Polar Express 4D - BOTH of my kids enjoyed every moment of this 4D experience. It was very interactive and the 15 mins were a good representation of the movie and what the Polar Express is all about. It was special for me since my mom used to read the book to me, it was one of her favs and is now one of our traditions. Zoe has seen the movie and read the book and loved the snipit. Mikey has done neither and loved the 4D experience...again super fun for the sensory seeking.
He left the glasses on!!!!
* Largest Rocking Horse EVER - At first I was not sure that my son would get on this but the moment he saw his sister start climbing he too decided it was going to be fun. They rocked back and forth by hand and totally in control the whole time. They loved it and laughed the whole time. 

* Ice Kingdom - Once again BOTH kids were able to enjoy this completely. I was skeptical on how Mikey would do on the ice tubing since it is singe rider, He did amazing! He was not the best listener but the staff, just as they were all night, was patient and kind, helping him make it down. Zoe was fast to get down and in line to do it again since you can go as many times as you want to!
 Inside the Ice Kingdom you HAVE TO dress up in a parka - it is below 9 degrees and totally CHILLED over! The three of us loved the story of a Christmas Carol. Mikey looked a tad bit cold, a staff member noticed, he came over and gave Mikey a hand warmer and turned to Zoe to give her one too, the kids were so grateful and that was so awesome! Thank you CHILL staff guy who was super kind!
   


Overall the noise level and the crowd was perfect for Mikey and Zoe and that helped me enjoy it all as well. 

Oh also, for a little action break to thaw out after the Ice Kingdom...There is also Paintball that is super fun for all ages! We got there a tad bit too late since we got caught up enjoying the live music and spending some extra time on the boat but will try it if we go back with the hubs!

What to make sure you check some extra fun for all:

* Santa - His house is cozy and sweet and waiting to give a treat. 

* Gingerbread House Making - We were not able to do this but if we return we will totally make one together. They were not quite ready for us and we returned too late in the evening. 

* Variety of Foods too from Chicken, Brats to sweet treats too!
Fresh and Good 
* Ice Bar - this one isn't for ALL but is for adults. NOT to be missed, it is inside the Ice Kingdom. Walk into a fully ICED over BAR and enjoy a drink for as long as you can take the CHILL! Loved it.
ICE BAR
Santa came in  as the Christmas Tree light up - this of course was after Sky Divers made their appearance right in front of our faces! Seriously the best Tree Lighting I have seen!

Thank you to the Queen Mary and CHILL for such a wonderful time full of many first for my kids! 

Right now you can still get discounts for CHILL - Use code BLACKFRIDAY for 50% off tickets on select nights NOW!

Any questions on any specifics? Just let me know and I will let you know how it went for me, mom of 2, one on and one off the autism spectrum. It was perfect for all of us and we were all able to have the best night kicking off winter fun in SoCal. 

**HOT TIP** - We thought we would need to bring up the Fast Lane pass... I would check it out and see on the timing that you go the crowds as well. If it gets too much, check it out at that time. We did not need it and we went opening night! There is so much to do and so much space for everyone to do it in.  Happy Holidays everyone!

+The Queen Mary 



#QueenMaryChill #QMChill #FamilyFun #OCWinter #WinterFun #ThingsToDo 

Friday, November 20, 2015

Get Your SUGAR RUSH On at the OC Fair Grounds Dec 5th and 6th

SUGAR RUSH IS COMING TO TOWN !!!!

The Sweetest event you will ever TASTE is headed our way. 

Inline image 2
PC Sugar Rush
+BigBite entertainment bring us this Sweet event - Sugar Rush !

If you love sweets and more this is the event for you. I can not wait to attend and taste all of the amazing sweets that will be showcased! 

Here is what you can look forward to for the 2 day event! Detyails are hot off the press!

 Still sizzling from the success of the recent Big Bite Bacon Fest in Long Beach, Big Bite Events is pleased to unveil their newest foodtainment concept, Sugar Rush. The sweetest event you will ever taste will debut Saturday, December 5 and Sunday, December 6, 2015 at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa.

Sugar Rush will be a one-of-a kind dessert showcase and sweet market experience packed with entertainment, competitions, demonstrations, walk-about tastings of decadent and delicious sweet treats and shopping from dozens of the best pastry chefs and confectioners in Southern California. Foodie enthusiasts will satisfy their sweet tooth with an overload of artisan desserts in an unparalleledsugar shoppe environment as they prepare for the holiday season.

In celebration of National Cookie Cutter week, Sugar Rush is inviting both professional confectionery and pastry chefs along with amateur dessert artisans to participate in the Sugar Rush Cookie Competition. The Sugar Rush Cookie Competition will offer everyone a chance to put a favorite family cookie recipe to the ultimate test. In addition, the Sugar Cookie Art Display Competition will bring together a cookie, an artist and a cause to battle for the best sugar cookie art display. All entries will be put on display for the festivalgoers to bid on via a silent auction. 100% of the auction proceeds will be donated to a local charity.

Festivalgoers will also enjoy chef demonstrations, live entertainment, games and crafts for kids. As with all Big Bite Event productions, there will be plenty of fun themed games and entertainment to keep eventgoers busy!

Tickets for Sugar Rush are on sale now! VIP tickets are available and include one-hour early admission before general admission guests, a VIP swag bag, chocolate and spirits pairing and access to the VIP Sugar Lounge. The event will open at 11 a.m. for VIP, 12 p.m. for general admission and continue until 5 p.m. daily.

For more information about this one-of-a-kind sweet experience and to purchase tickets visit www.SugarRushOC.com.

We will see you there, mouths full of sweets and treats!!


#Sweets #OCFairgrounds #SugarRush #WinterFun #MustDo #ThingsToDo #OC #CostaMesa #CantWait #Sugar #Treats #SweetTreats #BigBite #FunInOC

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Queen Mary CHILL Opens Friday!!

The Ice Kingdom is back at the +The Queen Mary !

Welcome to winter in SoCal. It may not be snowing in Orange County but there will be an arctic freeze taking over the Queen Mary starting November 20th!
PC Queen Mary CHILL
We have not been in the past to this Holiday event but we are attending this year and will bring all of our favorites to you after we go. We can not wait to get a taste of North Pole temperatures! 

Since this is new to us, I asked the kids what would be there MUST DO's when we get there. Of course they said everything and we will sure try to get to it all but here are our top 5:

* Ice Tubing - we are ready for the ride down 

* Ice Kingdom - set up in the dome where the Spruce Goose used to call home, this frozen over 13,00 sq ft walk through exhibit features larger than life ice creations, some over 2.5 stories tall! Grab your parka and gloves for this one - it gets under 9deg in there.

* Ice Skating - there is something always so magical about skating with winter decor all around and feeling the CHILL!
PC Queen Mary CHILL
* Illumination Candle Making Shoppe - I would love to treat my kids to a craft that we can take home and put up as part of our Holiday decor. 

* Enchanted Forest Hedge Maze - My son, who is on the spectrum, loves to go through mazes. This will be a big treat for him. 

There are so many things to do at the Queen Mary CHILL, we will probably have to try everything out that we can. I cant wait to listen to live Holiday music while we walk around in a winter wonderland.

Tickets for this super "cool" event are on sale now and opening day is just two days away! Cost runs from $29.99 for children 4 to 11 and $39.99 for adults. You can also upgrade to include Ice Skating for $15. 

Get your tickets now here! Buy online and save $5! Use Promo Code CHILL15 to get admission for $18.99 on select nights!

If you are going on Opening Night (the 20th) there will be a Christmas Tree lighting ceremony at 7:30pm - Love it!

Dates that the CHILL is running are: Nov 20 - Nov 29, Dec 1 - 6, Dec 8 - Jan 3 and Jan 7 - 10.  Hours are 7pm to 10pm and parking is $20. 

Look out for our recap of the event, since we have never been, we will have a lot to share about more must do's and can't miss things at the Queen Mary CHILL!

Oh One last heads up - Did you know that the Queen Mary offers Breakfast with Santa every Saturday starting November 28th to December 26th. All the details can be found here! you can even see the menu here.
Looks so awesome and what a magical moment and memory for the kids. 

Happy Holidays.
PC Queen Mary CHILL


#QueenMary #Chill #QueenMaryCHILL #LongBeach #WInterFun #SoCal #OC #ThingsToDo #HolidayFun #FamilyFun *we are being given entry to experience the CHILL for our honest review, all opinions are my own.*

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

ALVIN & THE CHIPMUNKS-THE MUSICAL at the Grove - Tickets on Sale now!

Alvin, Simon, Theodore... The Chipmunks are coming to Orange County!


Get ready to have some all ages fun and sing along with Alvin, Simon and Theodore in "ALVIN & THE CHIPMUNKS THE MUSICAL", coming to the City National Grove of Anaheim on December 1st at 6pm.

We have never been to the musical so we are very excited and can not wait!

My kids are looking forward to seeing the most famous Chipmunk trio and the Chipettes live on stage with the music, special effects and lighting that will bring the musical to life.
PC Alvin and the Chipmunks
I am looking forward to seeing both my kids enjoy this in their own way. My daughter has been a fan for years and my son just watched the movies and some old movies from my youth last night! What I love is that this is something that I can share with my kids that my parents shared with me. Nostalgia at its finest and that is priceless to me. 

Are you excited for the show? Guess what!? We are, and so are the Chipmunks! The awesome Trio is running a contest to giveaway tickets to the show that is going on NOW and ends on the 22nd of November. Winner will get 4 tickets to the show!!

What do you need to do to win? It's simple... do you remember the famous Christmas song the Chipmunks sing... "All I Want For Christmas Are My Two Front Teeth"...

To enter for a chance to sing along with Alvin and his gang at the Grove all you need to do is post a pic or video of your kiddos "Wishing for their two front teeth for Christmas"on Instagram with the hashtag #alvingrove and tag @GroveOfAnaheim . 

Post a picture or video and get creative!!

The top 5 most creative finalists will win a family 4 pack of tickets to the show!! Get crafty and have fun with it. When you are ready post it on your instagram and tag the Chipmunks with the hashtag so they can see it!

Follow along with all the fun on their social media too!

Get all the info on the live show here and see the seating chart and purchase tickets here

Good luck to everyone who enters and hope to see you there at the show!

al_dec1_homepage_slideshow.jpg
PC Alvin and the Chipmunks
#Chipmunks #Grove #Anaheim #LiveShow #mustSee #Alvinandthechipmunks #Chipettes #GroveofAnaheim #Musical #Holidays #Thingstodo #OrangeCounty 
* We are being given tickets to see the live show in return for social sharing, all opinions are my own *

Monday, November 16, 2015

Create Your Own at Poqet Donuts - Now Open in Irvine!

Now Open in Irvine!

Poqet Donuts is now open in Irvine and I was able to sample everything on the menu and create a few of my own.
Poqet Donuts
PC Poqet Donuts
Such a fun idea and with such great tasty options to top off your sweet treat you too will love what you create to eat. 

Sampling everything was a treat for sure but a surprise for me was the totally vegan donuts. I tried both and loved them but the samoa flavored creation was the best. 

There are so many options to create your own but the donut bar is full of options you can chose from that will not disappoint! From the sprinkles and candy to fresh fruit the toppings are plenty. Just start with glazed, chocolate, vanilla or vegan and create from there.

Their specialty flavors always on hand are, Avocado, Maple Bacon, Campfire, Peanut Butter and No J, Cookie & Cream, Strawberry Fields Forever, Pumpkin Spice, Nutella, Tiramisu, Pistachio Creme Brulee, Lemon Meringue, Cherry Red Velvet, Blueberry, Black & White Cake, Vanilla Latte, Green Tea and Butter Salt. 

**All of these also come in "mini donuts" and if you check in on Yelp you can get a free mini.**  

Grab a cappuccino, latte, mocha, juice or more to wash down your tasty creation and make another to take home. That is what I did.... I sort of felt bad not making a few for my family. I wanted them to taste the goodness too... they loved them!

Get more info and directions to Poqet Donuts here

Let me know what you come up with and try!


#PoqetDonuts #donuts #create #make #eat #yum 

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Winter Fest is Coming to OC Dec 18th - Jan 3rd!

It's beginning to look a lot like Winter! 

Have you heard the exciting news, let me tell you, the Orange County Fair Grounds will be turned into a Winter Fest for everyone to enjoy!
Here are the latest updates:

* Open December 18th through January 3rd

* Ice Skating - with a Theater Sized Screen Playing Holiday Films 

* Ice Tubing - down a 130 foot, 6 lane ice slide 

* Snowfall and Tree Lighting nightly

* Reindeer Feeding 

* over 30 carnival rides and games 

* Festive foods, crafts, cocktails 

* Magical lights and Holiday decor, including the world's largest ornament 

There are special events at the beginning of each day through out the evening, so guest are encouraged to come when it opens and stay until it closes. 

Admission starts at just $10. With that you get unlimited rides on the tubing slides (42" and taller), one carnival ride and game in the midway. Admission also grants you time with the most famous couple at Winter Fest... Mr and Mrs Claus themselves and check out what the elves have for arts and crafts. 

For more of a premium experience you can always add on upgrades. 
You can purchase tickets HERE.

Get all the details on the full experience HERE

We are looking forward to this Holiday experience. 

Our top 5 must try's for this new event:

* Indoor Ice Rink - I can not wait to try this with my daughter. 

* Snow Tubing - Always a family favorite and something I did when I was a kid with my family, passing this along to the kids is a must!

* Reindeer Viewing and Feeding - We watch the Reindeer all year long and now it's time to see one up close!

* Worlds Largest Ornament - Can't wait to take a picture at this perfect spot.

* Visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus - I heard she reads the most heartwarming stories. We will have to sit and listen to one or two...

PC Winter Fest OC
We love to keep traditions going and create new ones to pass along. Orange County has not had a huge winter celebration that locals can enjoy with so many things to do for all ages until now!

Hope to see you all at Winter Fest OC!  Stay Connected with Winter Fest on Social Media - FACEBOOK - TWITTER - INSTAGRAM .

#WinterFest #OC #WinterFestOC #FamilyFun #MustDo #ThingsToDo #WinterFun #OCFun #ThingsToDoInOC #CostaMesa #OrangeCounty #HolidayFun #IceSkating #Snow #Tubing #Food #Drinks #SnowPlay 

Monday, November 9, 2015

Ride the Train to Santa at Irvine Park RR! **GIVEAWAY**

Take a Train Ride to Santa aboard the +IrvineParkRailroad . !

It's the most wonderful time of the year! We just love the holidays and the traditions that come along with the season.

Our family has had a lot of traditions passed down over the years. A lot of them were started by my mom and dad over 40 years ago. These traditions are here to stay and I too pass them down now by doing them with my own family. 

Since having my own first birthday at Irvine Park, my family has been returning for special events, BBQ's, family time and just the scenery for many years. 

One of our most favorite times of year to visit the Irvine Park RR is Christmas time! The holidays always bring out the cool crisp air, fresh smells and the train to Santa!
PC IPRR

Sunday, November 8, 2015

Celebrate Giving Thanks with Pretend City this November

Pretend City is full of Thanks this November!

November is always a special month. There are so many reasons for us to be grateful for our blessings. The time to enjoy family and give thanks to those around us that help us in one way or another all year long. 

There is a lot going on at +PretendCity this month. Below you can see a list of all the events that +Pretend City Children's Museum will have to show thanks to all of their attendees!

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Wednesday, November 4: Celebrate Put Down the Pacifier Day!
Time:    Activities throughout the day
Specifically for:    Children of all ages; Grown-ups
Details: Is your child using a binky?  Come join us, as we read Bye-Bye Binky!  Through this story your child will learn that as they grow up, saying Bye-Bye Binky is not so hard after all!   This is your chance for your child to surrender their pacifier to the Tooth Fairy – she’ll be on hand throughout the day for a meet-and-greet opportunity.
Sensational Story Time: Is your child using a binky?  Come join us, as we read Bye-Bye Binky!  Through this story your child will learn that as they grow up, saying Bye-Bye Binky is not so hard after all!
RSVP:    Not required
Fee:    Included with museum admission
Event Link: http://pretendcity.org/event/celebrate-put-down-the-pacifier-day/

Friday, November 6: Book Reading & Signing by Laura Tovar, Author of Autumn Colors & Months Fly By!
Time:    11:00 a.m. Reading of Autumn Colors
               3:30 p.m.   Reading of Months Fly By
Specifically for:    Children of all ages; Grown-ups
Details: Laura Tovar taught music for many years in the public schools and wrote many songs and jingles for children. Laura has developed a catalog of “teaching tunes” with fun melodies that she will be sharing with us. The lyrics are catchy and are perfect for teachers and parents to read aloud with young children. Wonderful illustrations have made her songs really come alive!
Following each reading will be an engaging art activity for children to participate in led by Laura Tovar.
Laura’s books will be available for purchase in our bookstore and she will be signing books before and after the planned art activities.
RSVP: Not required
Fee:    Included with museum admission
Event Link: http://pretendcity.org/event/book-reading-signing-by-laura-tovar-author-of-autumn-colors-months-fly-by/

Wednesday, November 11: Celebrate Veterans Day  
Time: 10:30a.m. – 12:30p.m.
Specifically for: Children of All Ages
Veterans Day is an opportunity to honor and thank those who have served or are serving in the military. Today Pretend City will take the time to teach children the significance of the holiday through simple and age-appropriate activities that will show respect and appreciation to our veterans.
Smart Art: Celebrate this special day with a remembrance activity that you can take home to give to a special veteran in your life or to serve as a keepsake.
Sensational Story Time: Join us for a heartwarming story time that will teach your children about our nation’s veterans and why we honor them on this special day.
RSVP: Not required
Fee: Included with admission
Event Link: http://pretendcity.org/event/celebrate-veterans-day/
   
Friday, November 13: Celebrate World Kindness Day
Time:    Activities throughout the day
Specifically for:    Children of all ages; Grown-ups
Smart Art: Recognize kind acts and gestures with your child as you share with one another what they are.  Record those memories onto a Heart Prints to keep with you as a reminder of the lasting impression those gestures leave on your heart. 
Sensational Story Time: During the reading of Chrysanthemum, your child will be engaging in a wrinkle heart activity that will help your child understand empathy and how kindness can help mend a heart.
Let’s Move: This activity will focus on teamwork, solving problem, and communication.  Let’s link together and hula hoop our way out of this situation!
RSVP:    Not required
Fee:    Included with museum admission

Sunday, November 15: Celebrate America Recycles Day
Time:    Activities throughout the day
Specifically for:    Children of all ages; Grown-ups
Details: Ultimate Recycling machine
Smart Art: Help to build our recycle city in the art studio.  All day we will be working with recycled materials. What will you transform paper rolls, Popsicle sticks and cotton balls into? 
Sensational Story Time: Compost Stew will introduce children to the idea of composting.  They will work on science skills as they sort items to create their own composting bin and math skills as they put the composting steps in order
Symbol in a Second: Don’t throw that away, will help your child see objects in different ways.  All we have to do is use our imagination!  Continue the fun and imagination with our ultimate recycling machine to build to your hearts content. At the end create an earth badge as your pledge to help keep our world clean. 
RSVP:    Not required
Fee:    Included with museum admission

Monday, November 16: Celebrate National Button Day
Time:    Activities throughout the day
Specifically for:    Children of all ages; Grown-ups
Details:
Smart Art: It’s raining buttons in the art studio!  Buttons of every color and size will sure to amaze everyone.  Come joins us in the art studio for button theme art activities!
Musical Buttons: It’s a twist on musical chairs with large buttons!  Your children will have fun moving to the beat of the music, once it stop it’s a race to find a button!
RSVP:    Not required
Fee:    Included with museum admission

Tuesday, November 24th: Healthy Holidays with Dr. Patricia and Serving Kids Hope
Join us from 11:00-Noon for some Healthy Holiday activities with Dr. Patricia and her team from the organization Serving Kids Hope. Dr. Patricia will be leading a parent discussion group about how to encourage healthy eating habits in young children. She will also be giving parents tips for how to deal with picky eaters, how to get your child to sleep, and the importance of communication in the home. She will end the discussion with a guided visualization which she says are very beneficial for helping your child to fall asleep easily. Parents that purchase Dr. Patricia’s Book Fit Kids Revolution from our bookstore on this day will be entered into an opportunity drawing to win a free visit and consultation with Dr. Patricia. Or a Family 4 pack to Pretend City.
Dr. Patricia will be signing books and answering questions immediately following her discussion just outside the Pretend City Entrance Gate.
While the Parents are enjoying Dr. Patricia’s presentation; children 2 years and up can join her team in the adjacent community room for two fun and engaging activities. Children will read the book Stone Soup and make some healthy soup of their own to try. Then they will participate in a Gingerbread Picasso activity where they will be decorating their very own gingerbread figurines to take home and hang on the tree.
Pre-Registration is required for this event to ensure that enough materials are provided for each child and parent in attendance. The 1st 50 that register will be entered to win the book Fit Kids Revolution by Jon Gabriel & Patricia A. Ronald Riba, MD.
RSVP:    Required
Fee:    Included with museum admission

Wednesday, November 25: Celebrate Thanksgiving!   
Time:    11:00 a.m.           Sensational Story Time
3:30 p.m.             Listen & Learn
Specifically for:  Young Toddler (12-24 months), Toddlers (2-4 years), Preschoolers (3-5 years), Kindergarteners (5-6 years), School Ages (6 years and up)
Sure, Thanksgiving is known for the pilgrims, history and turkey.  But most importantly, Thanksgiving is for giving thanks; it's a holiday all about everything that we are thankful for. Today let’s celebrate family, friends, and the holiday that brings everyone together through these fun activities:
·         Sensational Story Time - Gobble gobble up these books for a Thanksgiving treat! From hilarious turkeys to holiday history your children will learn and engage.
·         Listen & Learn – Join us to Do The Turkey Pokey and learn about the farm in these fun listen and learn music and movement times. 
·         Smart Art – Thankfulness is something which is an important expression and feeling for children to understand. Help teach them what it means to be thankful by adding and decorating a leaf for our Thankful Tree.  
RSVP: Not required
Fee: Included with admission

Friday, November 27: Food & Family Friday
Time:    10:30 a.m.             Turkey Hokey Pokey-In the City Park
11:00 a.m.           Sensational Story Time in Orange Plaza- Bear Says Thanks
                2:30 p.m.              Smart Art Spud Activity- In the Real Cafe
3:30 p.m.             Sensational Story Time in Orange Plaza - Thanks for Thanksgiving
Pretend City will be a great place to get away from all the Black Friday Madness. We will be playing with our Thanksgiving leftovers in the Real Café, Dancing and Singing to Turkey Songs in the City Park, and reading books about thankfulness in the Orange Plaza.
Sensational Story Time: Join us in the Orange Plaza for a reading of Bear Says Thanks by Karma Wilson & Jane Chapman at 11:00 a.m. followed by an art activity where you child will be able to make their own quilt square. We will then be reading Thanks for Thanksgiving by Julie Markes at 3:30pm and talking about all the things that we are thankful for. Children will be able to make a Thank You card in our post office following the book reading.
Smart Art Spud Activity: Come and Play with our Mashed potato Sensory Bin in the Real Café and make your own Mr. Potato Head using Thanksgiving leftovers. We will talk about different emotions when creating our Mr. Potato Head characters by asking questions such as “do you want your character to be happy, sad, or mad?” And “What shapes create a mouth, eyes, noses?”
Music & Movement: Join us in the Pretend City Park for Dancing and Singing to the Turkey Hokey Pokey!
RSVP: Not required
Fee: Included with admission

Thank you +Pretend City Children's Museum for the educational fun my kids always have. Can not wait to bring my dad in for some Thankful pretend play with his grandchildren. 

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