Monday, April 29, 2019

The LEGO Movie 2 Review Plus #Giveaway Cause This Songs Gonna Get Stuck Inside Your Head...

Loved it!! Everything is Awesomer!

Get ready to sing, dance in your seat and move your feet... 

Sing along here to get into the awesome mood.
 
 
We love The Lego Movie 2 and can not stop singing the most catchy song ever! 
 

 



Let's address the Elephant in the room... Okay I can not get enough of the one liners that cracked us up during the film.

The Lego Movie 2 is funny, entertaining and creatively done to show a good story line we can all relate to as parents and kids.

This songs gonna get stuck inside your heeaaddd...... We are so thankful to have been invited to attend a launch party kick off event for The Lego Movie 2 at the WB Studios in Burbank. (Hosted)

I loved that Emmet and Lucy as well as other Lego Friends were on site to snap pics, dance and play with the kids.



We were able to sit back and enjoy some Lego building and cookie coloring with the kids.



I love The Lego Movie 2 since it was meant to do just that.. sit and play together.



My kids often get on each others nerves but I remind them they are 4 years apart and one just ants to play with the other or see what the other is doing out of pure interest.


It is nice to see that once again Lego puts the effort to show family values and the importance of pretend play.

Thank you to WB & The LEGO Movie 2 for the Epic Tacos for lunch too...





Okay lets get to the Movie right!?

Here are the deets on the release and combo packs.

It’s time to go where no brick has gone before when “The LEGO® Movie 2: The Second Part” arrives on 4K UHD Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD Special Edition and Digital. The much-anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed, global box office phenomenon that started it all, “The LEGO® Movie 2: The Second Part” reunites the heroes of Bricksburg in an all new action-packed adventure to save their beloved city.
 

Reprising their starring roles from the first film are Chris Pratt (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Jurassic World”) as Emmet; Elizabeth Banks (“The Hunger Games” movies, “Love & Mercy”) as Lucy, aka Wyldstyle; Will Arnett (“The LEGO® Batman Movies,” TV’s “Arrested Development”) as LEGO Batman; Alison Brie (TV’s “GLOW,” TV’s “Community”) as Unikitty; Nick Offerman (“Fargo,” TV’s “Parks and Recreation”) as MetalBeard; and Charlie Day (the “Horrible Bosses” movies, TV’s “It’s Always Sunny in Philadephia”) as Benny. They are joined by Tiffany Haddish (“Girls Trip,” “Keanu”) and Stephanie Beatriz (“Short Term 12,” TV’s “Brooklyn Nine-Nine”) as new characters Queen Watevra Wa'Nabi and General Mayhem, respectively, and Maya Rudolph (“Bridesmaids,” TV’s “Big Mouth”), as Mom. 
Warner Bros. Pictures and Warner Animation Group present, in association with LEGO System A/S, a Rideback/Lord Miller/Vertigo Entertainment Production, “The LEGO® Movie 2: The Second Part.” The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.
The 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray disc of The LEGO® Movie 2: The Second Part” will feature a Dolby Atmos® soundtrack remixed specifically for the home theater environment to place and move audio anywhere in the room, including overhead. To experience Dolby Atmos at home, a Dolby Atmos enabled AV receiver and additional speakers are required, or a Dolby Atmos enabled sound bar. Dolby Atmos soundtracks are also fully backward compatible with traditional audio configurations and legacy home entertainment equipment.
The LEGO® Movie 2: The Second Part” will also be available on Movies Anywhere. Using the free Movies Anywhere app and website, consumers can access all their eligible movies by connecting their Movies Anywhere account with their participating digital retailer accounts.
Fans can also own “The LEGO® Movie 2: The Second Part via purchase from digital retailers beginning April 16.
It’s been five years since everything was awesome and the citizens are now facing a huge new threat: LEGO DUPLO® invaders from outer space, wrecking everything faster than it can be rebuilt. The battle to defeat the invaders and restore harmony to the LEGO universe will take Emmet (Chris Pratt), Lucy (Elizabeth Banks), Batman (Will Arnett) and their friends to faraway, unexplored worlds, including a galaxy filled with fantastic planets, strange characters and catchy new songs. It will test their courage, creativity and Master Building skills, and reveal just how special they really are.

4K, BLU-RAY AND DVD ELEMENTS
 
“The LEGO® Movie 2: The Second Part” 4K UHD Combo Pack and Blu-ray Combo Pack contain the following special features:
·         Everything is Awesome Sing-along – Sing-along, trivia, games and more!
·         Commentary – Fun behind the scenes commentary by filmmakers
·         They Come in Pieces: Assembling The LEGO Movie 2 – Featurette highlighting A-list voice talent including Chris Pratt, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett and Tiffany Haddish
·         Emmet’s Holiday Party: A LEGO Movie Short – Holiday themed animated short
·         LEGO Sets in Action – Animations of the LEGO product tied to The LEGO Movie 2
·         LEGO Designers – LEGO toy designers highlight key play sets in TLM2 product line
·         Outtakes & Deleted Scenes – Never before seen scenes
·         Super Cool Music Video – Music video by Beck featuring Robyn and The Lonely Island
·         Promotion Spots – Fun custom spots featured during the theatrical campaign
 
“The LEGO® Movie 2: The Second Part” DVD Special Edition contains the following special features:
·         Commentary – Fun behind the scenes commentary by filmmakers
·         They Come in Pieces: Assembling The LEGO Movie 2 – Featurette highlighting A-list voice talent including Chris Pratt, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett and Tiffany Haddish
·         Emmet’s Holiday Party: A LEGO Movie Short – Holiday themed animated short
·         LEGO Sets in Action – Animations of the LEGO product tied to The LEGO Movie 2
·         LEGO Designers – LEGO toy designers highlight key play sets in TLM2 product line
·         Outtakes & Deleted Scenes – Never before seen scenes
·         Super Cool Music Video – Music video by Beck featuring Robyn and The Lonely Island
·         Promotion Spots – Fun custom spots featured during the theatrical campaign
  and... thank you for always supporting our adventures and letting us know what you too like to do, see and or want us to review.
 

 
It's giveaway time.... thank you to Warner Brother and The Lego Movie 2 - Good Luck All!
 

 
 
 
 
 

Saturday, April 27, 2019

Universal Studios Our First Family Visit - All You Need To Know Plus Autism Tips & Something I'd Never Do! #UniversalStudios

Universal Studios Hollywood is Pure Movie Magic Brought to Life

 
First Visits Are Always The Best... We've waited a while to visit Universal Studios Hollywood as a family.
 

 
It's a big step to take to enjoy everything Hollywood Movie Magic with kids and one on the Autism Spectrum.
 
 
Thank you to Universal Studios for having us out to experience Dark Art show on the Hogwarts Castle. Not only did we enjoy wizarding entertainment but we explored the park early beforehand! All Opinions are my own.
 
 
Since it was our first visit I thought it would be fun to do a complete separate post on just that! Tips and feedback on our 6.5 hour day at Universal Studios Hollywood. You can find our blog post on all things Wizarding World of Harry Potter here.
 
 
The lay out and navigating Universal Studios
 
There is really no way to start or finish as we found that returning to all the lands or parts of the park were a must to see more.
 
When you enter the main gate and of course take that iconic shot... grab a map and pick a starting point. Snaps some photos of your favorites along the way!
 

 
Upper and lower lots are filled with things to do but main events and shows are on the upper lot.
 
We were told by a Universal team member that it's best to take the Studio Back Lot Tram Tour during the day so that we would be able to see everything. So I'm passing along that tip.
 
 
The lower lot is stair or escalade accessible. If wheel chair is needed you can take an elevator down one leave then catch a bus ride to the bottom. Always a way to help everyone enjoy.
 
Jurassic World will be open later this year but you can peek at the construction going on coming down the escalators or riding up.
 

 
Lower lot you will find Transformers and Mummy Rides. Both are amazing and the whole family rode them.
 

 
We totally loved both rides. Lockers are available to store your goodies.. do it.. not only is it asked and suggested but the ride is super bumpy and crazy fun so just keep your bags safe!
 
 
The upper lot has just about everything else.
 
Catch that Studio Tour Tram and enjoy an hour of so much interactive movie set history it will keep you on the edge of your seat. So much so that my son had to swap over to the middle from the window seat.. haha!
 

 
 
I love that I now know how my parents felt watching my face as Jaws went by the tram when I was a kid. Priceless really!
 

 
 
Growing up the Simpson's were always a comedic relief weekly from school or soccer so of course we had to introduce the iconic funny family to our family.. right!? Yes.
 

 
Everything you can imagine seeing on TV is exactly what you walk around on site at Universal Studios.
 
 

 

My sons favorite is the Despicable Me movie line... he's a huge fan. Who am I kidding we all are.
 

Friday, April 26, 2019

Hogwarts Castle Overcome by Dark Arts Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood is Wizarding - A Must See! #DarkArts

Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle Is A Must See In Person

 
It's whimsically magical, with a twist of dark wizardry, the Dark Arts At Hogwarts Castle is magnificent for all ages to see.
 
 


 
While our recent trip, our first family trip, to Universal Studios Hollywood we were privileged to catch a preview of the new show. All Opinions are my own, thank you Universal for the experience.
 
Step into Hogsmeade and walk into a whole world of Wizarding adventures....
 
 
I was in awe watching not only what was happening right in front of my eyes that seemed like reality but also listening to my kids ask if the Castle would be okay cause we could see the inside!
 
We've seen a few videos on YouTube and they just don't do justice to seeing something like this in person. I can not rave enough about the reality you think you are seeing while the lights and even drones used captive you in those 7.5 minutes of the show.
 
 

 
If anyone is sensitive to loud noises, bright lights or effects be aware to see a video on line and prep for any special needs. There is closer up viewing and further back so that may help too
Inside Hogsmead it is really as if you were on set walking the streets and ready to shop for your wand, pet, sweets and robe.


Around Hogsmeade
 
Ready to board the Hogwarts Express... must do photo stop.
 

 
Everything  about the Wizarding World is just potterhead amazing. One could get lost in the shops for hours and come out with many things from wands to chocolate frogs. A must right.
 
There's two rides,  a roller coaster that is pleasantly smooth and fun for the whole family and of course one inside the castle.



Keep an eye out in line and on the ride for special effects that bring you right into the movie as you remember it!


 
Everything about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is so cool there is just no other way to say it. We loved it!!
 
Ideally we would have loved one more hour to brows around and look at all the fine details but more of a reason not return.
 
There is a lot to see and so we could have spent the whole day there really.
 
 


Friday, April 19, 2019

We Loved Cheat Day Land... Here Is Why!! Must Visit Pop Up of Summer 2019 #CheatDayLand

Cheat Day Land Is Now Open At The Irvine Spectrum Center

 
Hello Cheat Day Everything!!
 
Have you ever sat there thinking today is my cheat day and I want to eat and drink everything valid on a cheat day menu? I have too.
 

 
Cheat Day Land was created many a team of pretty fit and love well minded creative that came together and developed the best way to express a Cheat Day in a Land.. pop up of course.
 

 
My daughter was so surprised when we showed up, she really didn't know what to expect. Best part for me was seeing her laugh and love life just playing with pop up blow up stand up art display combos!
 

 
I mean the reality of the effect, a little dimension and paint can do is so creatively fun... you just want to join in.
 
 
Some of my favorite photo opps....
  
The Rock.. he is my man!
 
 
 
Hello bowl of cereal - looking colorful ad festive!
 
 

 
We just couldn't help ourselves and why should we... their motto is "you deserve it".
 
 

 
We jumped, we posed, we swung on donuts and we even climbed a tower of cheat foods. It was wonderful!
 
 
 

 
You can see some of our photos and videos on Instagram here and Facebook here.
 
Cheat Day Land is in a huge location next to Dave & Busters and behind Barnes & Noble at the Irvine Spectrum Center for a limited time.
 

 
Treat yourself and your summer with a fun pop up Museum you can totally get into!
 
More information on tickets and dates with times available here.
 
You will want to block out at least 1.5 hrs from start to finish.
 

 
You aren't rushed and there's so many photos ops you don't want to miss on!
 
 
 

 
Share on social media with #cheatdayland #cheatday #irvinespectrumcenter and maybe featured on Cheat Day Lands social media too!
 

Saturday, April 13, 2019

Legoland Locks it Up with Officer in Pursuit in 4D! We Loved It... Find Out Why... Open Now #LegolandCA

Officer in Pursuit at Legoland California Officially Opens Today to Everyone!!

 
Thanks to Legoland California we were able to get a sneak peek during the preview!
 

PC LEGOLAND CA


 
We spent the day in the park and kicked off our Spring Break.. yes I know it's late.
 
Ready to check out the mini movie we eagerly checked in.
 
The kids were so excited to meet and greet Officer and Hot Dog.. I know, but I'll explain more.
 
 

 

 
Lots of fun with props and photo ops.
 
We even got photo bombed by the robbers...  hey now!
 
 

 
 
 
Once inside the theater you will notice that there is fair warning that the 4D means well super 4D interactive.
 
 

 
 
It totally is...
 
 
 
Not to spoil too much but Officer in Pursuit is just that... he has a criminal to catch and he's on a mission to do so.
 

 
 
Put your glasses on and it gets really awesome!
 
Items fly at you, water seems to splash you at all directions, candy comes at your face, hot dogs go air born and so much more...
 
We loved every moment of this new mini movie.
 
What to know and tips...
 
The movie is about 15 mins long
 
There is water that comes out and splashes you a bit
 
 

 
Autism / Sensory tips..  

Tuesday, April 9, 2019

Legoland Updates, Surprises & More for 2019 2020 Plus Live Interview #LegolandCa #LegolandCalifornia

Everything is Always Awesome and Now with Lego Movie 2 well, Everything is Awesomer!

 
Get all the deets, inside scoop, new shows and so much more about Legoland California 2019 2020.
 
 

 
Thanks Legoland for giving me the opportunity to sit and chat with Jake. He's one of my favorites at Legoland and over the last 4.5 years we've gotten to know him and how much he really enjoys being part of the Lego team.
 
Jake, social media manager at Legoland California, and I sat down & talked a bit about what's to come, new additions, new shows and so much more in a fun interview.
 
Jake was so excited to share all things bricktastic coming our way. I was beyind thrilled to listen.
 
You see, Legoland has a special place in my heart, not just cause the kids love it and my family really has a good time each visit, but, because 20 years ago my mom was so excited about the opening. She wanted to see how cute this new 12 attraction theme park was. She loved it. Since losing my mama about 12 years ago, u do as many of the things she loved to see and do so that we can keep her awesome traditions alive.
 
Visiting Legoland makes me feel connected to her in a youthful way, reminds me of how happy she always was to see us, her family smiling and enjoying life.
 
These are the memories I want my kids to always remember too!
 
 

 
 
 
So let's get into it... what's new, what's coming our way and what can we see and do asap at Legoland California for 2019...
 
 
20th Birthday:
 
Celebrate Legoland's 20th with Free admission for kids 12 & under! To get more information on the birthday offer for kids in 2019, please visit: LEGOLAND.com/birthday or call 760-918-LEGO (5346).

Duplo Playtown:
 
LEGOLAND has a treat for its youngest guests as the Resort recreates the popular DUPLO® Playtown, adds a new LEGOLAND Express train and reopens in the most scenic area of the Park.
In this new location, kids will be able slide, hide, and ride throughout the interactive play area and board the new mini-locomotive for a fun-filled ride, giving more options to families with toddlers who are making their first visit to  the theme park.
 
 
LEGO Movie 2 Experience:
 
A super awesome stage set of the actual movie sets on display... see full blog post here.
 
 
LEGO Friends:
 
There’s even more to celebrate in 2019 with an all new LEGO® Friends Live Show and Character Dance Party at the new Miniland Stage.
 
Guests will be invited to sing along to new songs, learn new dance moves plus interact with some old friends who will be there to help get the party started.
 
 
Lego City 4D:
 
Just in time for spring break, minifigures and maximum adventure will come to life in the world of LEGO® City with “LEGO® City 4D- Officer in Pursuit”, a new 4D film debuting at LEGOLAND California’s LEGO Showplace Theater.
 
The new short will combine dazzling 3D computer animation with 4D real-world effects in the Park’s latest quest to save the city.
 
The movie is exclusive to LEGOLAND Parks and features tons of action and laugh out loud moments that will appeal to everyone.
 
 
Water Park:
 
Yay!!!! The Riptide Racers are now open at Surfer's Cove...
 
Full water park will be open for summer soon but we cant wait to splish splash in the sun this weekend! (we hope to visit this weekend... keep an eye on our social media!)
 
 
*** Mayor of Miniland ***
 
Did you know that your little can send in a video to be in the running?!
 
Does your kiddo love legos, Legoland & all things bricktastic?!
 
Well then check out Legoland California on IG here to find out how your child can apply to be the Mayor of Miniland!!
 
 

 
 
So that's a lot of information and some good stuff to prep for family fun when visiting Legoland California.
 
Catch our full interview with Jake & get more deets here.
 
We've enjoyed watching Legoland California expand & become a real life Lego model we've all grown up loving.
 
From 12 attractions to over 60 and 3 parts to the theme park, I'd say let the bricks keep on building and please don't ever stop!
 
 
 



Go Blue with Lucille's BBQ & Our Family for Autism Awareness Month #LucillesBBQ #AutismAwareness

Yay to Lucille's for Amazing Food and Support of Autism Awareness!

 
Thank you to Lucille's barbecue for having us in for an amazing family dinner.
 
 

 
We are very grateful to support autism awareness alongside such a wonderful brand that serves amazing food as well as beautiful character in their team!
 
From the Lucille's team at Lake Forest to their corporate offices we always have an outstanding dine out experience.
 
Very good with sensory or special needs the Lucille's team is hands down friendly and accommodating in the most delightful way.
 

 
We love dining at our local Lucille's and it's the servers, host team, manager and chefs that make it so easy to enjoy our time out as a family.

Monday, April 8, 2019

Taste HB!! Tickets on Sale Now!! Get a Taste of Huntington Beach & Support the HB Children's Library

Foodie roll Call.. the Taste of Huntington Beach is Almost Here!
 
Spring is here... looking for date night or things to do?!
 
The 19th Annual Taste of Huntington Beach Benefitting the HB Children’s Library will take place on April 28, 2019 at the Huntington Beach Sports Complex
 


The Friends of the Children’s Library, organizers of the annual Taste of Huntington Beach, is proud to announce the food, wine and beer participants to date for this year’s premiere food festival.
 
The Taste of Huntington Beach is Sunday, April 28, 2019 at the HB Sports Complex; 18100 Goldenwest, Huntington Beach, 92648 from 12 Noon to 4 PM with an exclusive VIP reception from 11 AM to 12 Noon.
The Taste of Huntington Beach showcases the best local culinary talents and the region’s top wineries and breweries.
 
For one all-inclusive price, attendees enjoy unlimited samples and sips from the area’s finest establishments.
 
 
All proceeds go to the Children’s Department of the HB Public Library.
 
Participants to date include:

VIP Restaurants
Lucci's Gourmet Deli
HQ Gastropub
Ola Mexican Kitchen

Restaurants at the Taste
2nd Floor Food Art Drinks
Albertsons- Newland Center
Avila's El Ranchito
Bangkok
BLK- Earth, Sea, Spirits
Bruxie
Bumblebee Catering
Café Cup
Chronic Jerky
Creamistry
Cruisers Pizza Bar Grill
Deli-licious
Duke's Huntington Beach
Everbowl
Grater Grilled Cheese
Kathy May's
Kaya's Kitchen
Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar
Legends Surf City
Longboard Restaurant & Pub
Luna Grill
Mangiaimo Gelato
Market Broiler
Melissa's Produce
Miguel's Jr. Mexican Grill
Mother's Market & Kitchen
Old World German Restaurant
Pacific Hideway
Pete's Sunset Grille
Ritter's Steam Kettle Cooking
Romano's Macaroni Grill
Simmzy's
SOL Cocina/Solita Tacos & Margaritas
Stonefire Grill
Stoney's
Storie's BBQ
Suzanne's Catering & Event Planning
Sweet Traders
Tanner's
TeaArias
The Pizza Press
The Public House by Evans Brewing Co
VomFASS
Ways & Means Oyster House
 
Wineries
Ammunition Wines
Ascension Cellars
Cinquain Cellars
Dierberg Winery
Graveyard Vineyards
King Frosch Wines
Lucero Vineyards
Navarro Vineyards
Orange Coast Winery
PRP Wine International
Riverstar Vineyards
San Antonio Winery
Tackitt Family Vineyards
Vinemark Cellars
We Believe Wines
Wilson Creek Winery

Breweries
Alosta Brewing Company
Angel City Brewery
Baja Brewing Company
Barley Forge Brewing Co.
Beachwood Brewing
Bootlegger's Brewery
Calidad Beer
Evans Brewing Co.
Firestone Walker
Four Sons Brewing
Hoparazzi
Laguna Beach Beer Company
Old World German Bar
RIIP Beer Company
Ritual Brewing Company
The Dude's Brewing Company
Towne Park Brewery

Other Beverages
Café Affaire
Honey Pot Meadery
Magic Bullet
Smashed Pickle
Surf City Still Works
SurfCafea
Tree Branch Cider House

Taste of Huntington Beach tickets are available online at  www.TasteHB.comand at the Children’s Department of the Huntington Beach Central Library.
General Admission tickets are $70 and include:
·       Unlimited tastes of food from 50 of the best local eateries
·       Sips from California and boutique wineries
·       Samples from premium and craft breweries
·       Live entertainment, silent auction and raffle
·       Free parking at the HB Sports Complex
VIP tickets are $90 and include all General Admission perks, plus
·       An exclusive champagne VIP reception from 11 AM-12 Noon featuring food available only to our VIPs
·       VIP tote bag, party plate, a commemorative glass wine glass and free valet parking
·       30-minute early entry into the main restaurant tent
 
Reduced price General Admission and VIP tickets are available for group purchases (10 + tickets purchased at one time). Discounted Designated Driver tickets are also available (must be 21+ to enter with a designated driver ticket).
 
For more ticket options and other information, visit www.TasteHB.com.   

Thursday, April 4, 2019

Mimi's Cafe Brings Happiness To Lunch With New Menu Items All Week Long

Mimi's Café Has A New Lunch Menu

 
It's been a while since I've eaten at Mimi's Café....
 
Thank you for having me out to try your new lunch menu. All opinions are my own.
 

 
Mimi's is special to me in a memory of my mom kind of way. We used to drop in for some yummy fresh breads and French Onion soup. Loved those times.
 
I remember her loving our time spent chatting and enjoying a good meal. We loved sharing a sandwich or a quiche and taking time to enjoy the moment.
 
It's little memories like this that were traditions for us before she passed. Now its nice to experience a lovely lunch with friends that have turned family.
 
Lunch has been updated along with a full new look to classic favorites and new bites in the whole menu.
 
With lunch combos you can choose a soup and sandwich that will also come with fries.
 
All of this for under $11 is a great deal to me.
 
 
We tried a few of the features and of course the savory soups.
 
The 5 Cheese Grilled Cheese 
 

 
 
The Turkey Royale
 


 
The Chicken
 

 
The Ham
 

 
 
Everything was delish and full of fresh flavors that I'd totally return for.
 
The French Onion soup is just as I remembered it from a few years ago and that is a taste of memories to me.
 
A lunch with friends is always refreshing and a way to recharge your energy. Laughs, food, fun... my style.
 
 

 
Mimi's Café is offering their lunch combo specials Monday To Friday from 11 to 4... enjoy!