Beach Towel Tote how-to.

This tote is a handy beach or pool accessory.... it's a beach towel & bag all in one. Martha Stewart has instructions for making your own HERE.

xoxo, K

image via martha stewart.

July 2008 Calender

July 1st:
* Super cheap, & maybe free, Movies
* Pottery Barn Kids Book Club, 10 am
July 2nd:
* Super cheap, & maybe free, Movies
* Fun at Pirates Cove, Newport Harbor Nautical Museum, 10-11 am. Stories, crafts, music & seasonal fun geared to the pre-schooler. (reservations required. 949-673-7863, ext. 105)
* Buena Park Summer Concert Series, 7-9pm. (For information call 714-236-3868)
* City of Tustin Concerts in the Park, 6pm. (For information call 714-573-3000)
July 3rd: Storytime at Two Little Monkeys
July 4th:
* Laguna Niguel Concerts in the Park, 6:30 - 8:30pm. (For information call 949-425-5100).
* Other Orange County Fourth of July Celebrations
July 5th:
* The Knack kids crafts at your local Michaels, 10 am.
* Movie at the beach, 7 pm: High School Musical
July 6th:
* Dana Point Summer Concert Series, 4:30 - 6pm. (For information call 949-248-3530)
* Los Alamitos Concerts on the Green, 6 - 7pm. (For information call 562-430-1703).
* Westminster Summer Concerts in the Park, 6:45pm. (For information call 714-895-2860)
July 8th:
* Pottery Barn Kids Book Club, 10 am
* Super cheap, & maybe free, Movies
July 9th:
* Super cheap, & maybe free, Movies
* Buena Park Summer Concert Series, 7-9pm. (For information call 714-236-3868).
* City of Orange Concerts in the Park, 7-8pm. (For information call 714-744-5599)
* City of Tustin Concerts in the Park, 6pm. (For information call 714-573-3000)
July 10th:
* Storytime at Two Little Monkeys
* What's for Lunch? Toddler Program at the Orange County Zoo, 10-11 am. Find out what animals in the zoo eat. (registration required: 714-973-6846)
July 11th:
* Laguna Niguel Concerts in the Park, 6:30 - 8:30pm. (For information call 949-425-5100)
* Movie at the beach, 7 pm: How to Eat Fried Worms
* Orange County Fair
July 12th:
* City of Cypress Concerts on the Green, 6pm. (For information call 714-229-6780).
* Movie at the beach, 7 pm: Monster House
* Orange County Fair
July 13th:
* Dana Point Summer Concert Series. (For information call 949-248-3530)
* Westminster Summer Concerts in the Park, 6:45pm. (For information call 714-895-2860)
* Yorba Linda Concerts in the Park, 5:30pm. (For information call 714-961-7167)
* Orange County Fair
July 14th: Orange County Fair
July 15th:
* Super cheap, & maybe free, Movies
* Pottery Barn Kids Book Club, 10 am
* Orange County Fair
July 16th:
* Super cheap, & maybe free, Movies
* Orange County Fair
* Buena Park Summer Concert Series, 7-9pm. (For information call 714-236-3868).
* San Juan Summer Nights, 6-8 pm. (For information call 949-493-5911)
* City of Tustin Concerts in the Park, 6pm. (For information call 714-573-3000)
* City of Orange Concerts in the Park, 7-8pm. (For information call 714-744-5599)
July 17th:
* Storytime at Two Little Monkeys
* Animals in My Backyard, Program at the Orange County Zoo, 10-11 am. Find out about the creatures that live in your backyard. (registration required: 714-973-6846)
* Orange County Fair
July 18th:
* Movie at the beach, 7 pm: Master of Disguise
* Orange County Fair
July 19th:
* The Knack kids crafts at your local Michaels, 10 am.
* Animal Art Toddler Program at the Orange County Zoo, 10-11 am. Enjoy an hour of creativity & fun with an animal theme. (registration required: 714-973-6846.)
* City of Cypress Concerts on the Green, 6pm. (For information call 714-229-6780)
* Movie at the beach, 7 pm: Madagascar
* Orange County Fair
July 20th:
* Sunset at the Santa Ana Zoo, 5:30-7:30 pm. Bring a picnic & get ready for an evening of Live music, coffee, dessert, train rides & animals.
* Westminster Summer Concerts in the Park, 6:45pm. (For information call 714-895-2860)
* Dana Point Summer Concert Series, 4:30 - 6pm. (For information call 949-248-3530)
* Los Alamitos Concerts on the Green, 6 - 7pm. (For information call 562-430-1703).
* Yorba Linda Concerts in the Park, 5:30pm. (For information call 714-961-7167)
* Orange County Fair
July 21st: Orange County Fair
July 22nd:
* Super cheap, & maybe free, Movies
* Pottery Barn Kids Book Club, 10 am
* Orange County Fair
July 23rd:
* Super cheap, & maybe free, Movies
* Buena Park Summer Concert Series, 7-9pm. (For information call 714-236-3868)
* City of Orange Concerts in the Park, 7-8pm. (For information call 714-744-5599)
* City of Tustin Concerts in the Park, 6pm. (For information call 714-573-3000)
* Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus
* Orange County Fair
July 24th:
* Storytime at Two Little Monkeys
* Animal Art Toddler Program at the Orange County Zoo, 10-11 am. Enjoy an hour of creativity & fun with an animal theme. (registration required: 714-973-6846.)
* San Clemente Summer Beach Concert Series, 6pm. (For information call 949-361-9264)
* Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus
* Orange County Fair
July 25th:
* Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus
* Movie at the beach, 7 pm: Mulan
* Orange County Fair
July 26th:
* Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus
* Movie at the beach, 7 pm: Surfs Up
* Orange County Fair
July 27th:
* Westminster Summer Concerts in the Park, 6:45pm. (For information call 714-895-2860)
* Dana Point Summer Concert Series. (For information call 949-248-3530)
* Yorba Linda Concerts in the Park, 5:30pm. (For information call 714-961-7167)
* Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus
* Orange County Fair
July 28th:
* Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus
* Orange County Fair
July 29th:
* Super cheap, & maybe free, Movies
* Pottery Barn Kids Book Club, 10 am
* Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus
* Orange County Fair
July 30th:
* Super cheap, & maybe free, Movies
* City of Orange Concerts in the Park, 7-8pm. (For information call 714-744-5599)
* City of Tustin Concerts in the Park, 6pm. (For information call 714-573-3000)
* Buena Park Summer Concert Series, 7-9pm. (For information call 714-236-3868)
* Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus
* Orange County Fair
July 31st:
* Storytime at Two Little Monkeys
* City of Tustin Movie in the Park, movie starts at dusk. (For information call 714-573-3000)
* Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus
* Orange County Fair

Fireworks and Pasta Salad

For the fourth I will be making two of my favorite pasta salads to serve to my guests. I plan to take them to the park in a cooler and have chinese take-out boxes (hopefully in red or blue) to serve them in with plastic forks.

Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes (Barefoot Contessa)

Beach Week Pasta Salad

1 (8-ounce) bottle Kraft coleslaw dressing

Dash of thyme

Pinch of ginger

1 cup mayonnaise

4 cups diced chicken, cooked

2 tablespoons green onion

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

2 cups bow-tie pasta, cooked

2 cups red grapes, cut into halves

1 cup diced celery

1 (20-ounce) can pineapple tidbits

2 cups diced apples (unpeeled)

3/4 cup slivered almonds


Combine dressing, thyme, ginger and mayonnaise. You can also add craisins and mandarin oranges as optional ingredients. Mix the rest of the ingredients except apples and almonds. Add dressing. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Add apples and almonds just before serving.

xoxo, C

image via flickr

Beach Gear 101

Coleen already did a great post on beach essentials, but I thought I'd throw my 2 cents in... with 2 kids, ages 3 & under, I don't exactly have a lot of help carrying all of the gear, not to mention, if I'm not holding their hands, the boys tend to run off on me. So, that presents a bit a of a dilemma, when you consider how much stuff is required to spend a lazy day at the beach. You can only imagine how thrilled I was to come across the Rio Brands Back Pack Chair. (I found mine at Costco for a mere $19!) As the name suggests, it's a chair & back pack all in one. It has a velcro pouch that I can carry my towels & sunblock in (& any other necessary doo-dads), & there's even a handy-dandy cell phone holder! Now when it's time to head to the beach, I sling the chair on my back, throw the cooler over my shoulder like a messenger bag, slide the sand toys on one arm, & grab a boy with each hand... & we're off!

xoxo, K

Celebrating 4th of July in the OC

Aliso Viejo July 4th Celebration with Fireworks: Grand Park, 6pm - 9:30 pm. Food, live entertainment, bounce houses, face painting, carnival games & fireworks. FREE.

Anaheim Hills 4th of July Celebration: 5/10K Run & 2K Walk, Pancake Breakfast, Dog Show at Canyon High School. Food & Game Booths, Parade, Entertainment & Fireworks at Peralta Park: 115 N. Pinney, Anaheim. FREE.

Balboa Island 4th of July Boat Parade: Newport Harbor/ Balboa Island, from 1 pm - 3 pm. FREE

Cypress Fireworks Celebration: 11200 Lexington Dr., Los Alamitos, food, entertainment & fireworks. Gates open at 4pm.

Dana Point Independence Day Fireworks Extravaganza: Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point. Day long festivities & fireworks at 9pm. FREE.

Dana Wharf Fireworks Cruises: Watch the fireworks from the water, dinner & fireworks or fireworks only cruises available.

Fullerton 4th of July Festival & Fireworks Show: Fullerton High School Stadium, from 5 pm - 9:30 pm. Live music, games, food & fireworks. FREE.

Huntington Beach 4th of July Parade & Pier Festival: 5K Run, Pancake Breakfast, Parade, Pier Festival & Fireworks. FREE.

Irvine Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration & Concert on the Green: Irvine High School. Live bands, concession stands, balloon jumpers, face painting, games & fireworks. Admission required.

Laguna Niguel 4th of July Celebration: Crown Valley Community Park, 29751 Crown Valley Pkwy., Laguna Niguel. 5K run, 10K run/walk & children's races. Pancake breakfast, free swim & fireworks. FREE.

La Habra 4th of July Spectacular: La Habra High School Stadium. Games, food, activities & fireworks. Day of admission prices: $8 for adults, $5 for children.

Mission Viejo Fourth of July Street Faire & Fireworks: Olympiad & Marguerite, Mission Viejo. Food, Games & Fireworks. FREE.

Newport Dunes Fireworks Extravaganza: Family fun, food & fireworks. Cost $50 per car (up to 5 people).

San Juan Capistrano 4th of July Celebration: San Juan Capistrano Sports Park, 25925 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano. Live music, exhibit & food booths, demonstraions, beer/wine garden, petting zoo, rides & fireworks. FREE.

Tustin July 4th Celebration: Tustin High School, 1171 El Camino Real, Tustin. Entertainment & Fireworks. FREE.

The Greatest Show on Earth

is coming to town. You & you're family shouldn't miss this magical event. According to the website here's what will be in store:

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Over The Top, a wacky and whimiscal circus spectacular where dogs fly, ASian Elephants stomp, hop, and groove and one courageous man stand eye to eye with a pack of powerful Bengal tigers. Circus celebrities help rev-up the motorcycle madness featuring one cycle on a high wire and seven speeding riders in a Globe of Steel. Extraordinary aerial acts fill the arena sky with a rare double-decker trapeze and Chinese acrobats propelling through the air. And with the audience participation, this circus is really goes Over The Top.

What: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus
When: July 23 - August 3, 2008
Where: Honda Center, Anaheim, CA

Buy tickets & check out show times HERE.

xoxo, K

Before you pack for the beach.....

As a beach-going mama, I have made two big mistakes with my boys and our beach adventures. The first mistake was last year when my youngest was exposed to a bacteria at Doheney Beach that gave him a horrible rash and diarrhea. I should have checked this website to see the pollution levels, but I just thought that all of our local beaches were safe.

My second mistake was just this last week when I invited several families to the beach during extreme high tide. This mistake could have been resolved easily by checking the tide report, but instead we were all trying to find safe spots on the beach to keep our young children from being trampled by the huge waves.

I love having information that can help keep our families safer, so be sure to check the tide report and pollution levels before going to your local beach.

xoxo, C

image via flickr

In lieu of lash extensions.

One of my girlfriends has lash extensions... & they are incredible. Unfortunately, I don't have the time or money to get my own set of extensions. However, thanks to my latest Sephora find, I've got the next best thing... created by locally owned & operated Too Faced Cosmetics, comes Lash Injection Mascara. Basically, it's like lash extensions in a tube. & let me tell you from personal experience, it's amazing! It's the one thing I put on every single day. The Too Faced website suggests "for a more natural lash just tip lases with lash injection. For the false eye lash in a tube effect, inject your lashed with 3 - 4 coats." Get your own tube of Lash Injection HERE.

xoxo, K

Apple Camp

Apple is hosting free workshops at their stores this summer recommended for families with kids 8-12. You can sign up for a movie, presentation, music, or photo workshop. We signed up for a workshop at the Fashion Island Apple Store and I think I am more excited than my son.

xoxo, C

image via flickr

Two Little Monkeys Storytime

Thanks to a reader's tip, we found out about this great local event at the Two Little Monkeys Boutique in Orange. With storytelling, singing, face painting & a live bunny... sounds like something every little kiddo would enjoy. Thanks for the tip & keep 'em coming. We love hearing about all the local happenings in Orange County!

What: Storytime
When: Every Thursday from 11 am - 12 pm
Where: Two Little Monkeys Boutique, 109 N. Glassell St., Orange, CA 92866, (714)639-0919

xoxo, K

Day at the Park

A reader recently emailed us asking for information regarding water play areas at local parks. We thought we'd go one step further & include all of the local OC parks that go "beyond the call of duty". You know, the parks that have more than just your basic swing set & playground. Now you (& your kids) will never be bored with the same old park. (For more information on each specific park, just click on the park name & you'll be transported to the city website.) Have we missed your favorite park or playground? Be sure to email us & fill us in!

Pearson Park: 400 N. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim: swimming pools, lagoons & water gardens
Walnut Grove Park: 905 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, water feature
Boysen Park: 951 S. State College Blvd., Anaheim, features a permanently grounded US Navy Cougar jet airplane, circa 1954.

City Hall Park: 401 s. Brea Blvd, Brea, swimming pool
Founder's Park: Central & Berry, Brea, climbing wall
Tri-City Park: Kraemer at Golden, Brea, fishing

Henry Bolsseranc Park: 7520 Dale Street, Buena Park: swimming pool
Carl Brenner Park: 7373 San Rafael, Buena Park, wading pool
Larwin Park: 6150 Ball Road, Buena Park, spray pool
William Peak Park: 7225 El Dorado Dr, Buena Park: swimming pool & skate park

Adlena Park: 300 N. Adlena Dr., Fullerton, spray pool
Chapman Park: 2515 San Carlos Dr., Fullerton, climbing wall
Downtown Plaza: 125 E. Wilshire Ave., Fullerton, interactive fountain
Laguna Lake Park: 3120 Lakeview Drive, Fullerton, fishing
J. Francis "Pep" Lemon Park: 701 S. Lemon, Fullerton, spray pool
Skate Park: 801 W. Valencia Dr., Fullerton

Ted Craig Regional Park: 3300 State College, Fullerton, fishing
Valencia Park: 2425 W. Valencia Dr., Fullerton, wading pool & activity slab

Eastgate Park: 12001 St. Mark St., Garden Grove, pool facility
Magnolia Park: 11402 Magnolia St., Garden Grove, pool facility
Woodbury Park: 13800 Rosita Plc., Garden Grove, pool facility

Huntington Central Park: 18000 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach, fishing, frisbee golf, horseshoes & an adventure playground featuring rope bridge, cable slide, mudslides & forts. For more information go HERE.

Deerfield Community Park: 55 Deerwood West, Irvine, disc golf course
University Community Park: 1 Beech Tree Ln., Irvine, disc golf course & adventure playground featuring activities such as climbing, exploring, jumping and crawling. for more information go HERE.
Irvine Skate Park: 14701 Harvard Ave., Irvine

Heisler Park: located along the bluffs of Cliff Drive, North Laguna, marine & tide pool reserve area
Divers & Shaws Cove & Rockpile Beach: located off the bluffs of Cliff Dr., North Laguna, marine refuge area, scuba & snorkeling
Main Beach Park: Coast Hwy & Broadway/ Hwy 133, Laguna Beach, protected tide pools.

Fashion Island Shopping Center: 401 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, CA 92660, pop up fountains near the Garys store

Eisehhower Park: 2864 N. Tustin, Ave., Orange, streams & lake for fishing

Frontier Park: 1400 Mitchell Ave., Tustin, frisbee golf
Pioneer Road Park: 10250 Pioneer Rd., Tustin, water feature

Move over Yogurtland, now there’s something creamier

The current trend is the new tart frozen yogurt at places like Yogurtland, but I am sticking to Gelato Paradiso and their traditional creamy gelato as my frozen treat of choice. Gelato Paradiso is a gelato chain in our area that has several gelaterias and carries over twenty delicious flavors that vary season to season. Gelato, also known as Italian ice cream is not for the faint of heart, it is the real deal with real cream and sugar, but claims to have half the calories when compared to most traditional ice cream.

Mom’s Favorite: Strawberries and Cream
Kid’s Favorite: Stracciatella (Chocolate Chip)

xoxo, C

image via flickr

Shakespeare by the Sea.

Shakespeare by the Sea is a Southern California-based, non-profit organization, that performs the works of Shakespeare for local communities. FREE performances can be seen June - August in San Pedro, Carson, Glendale, Hermosa Beach, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, Lawndale, Lomita, Long Beach, Manhattan Beach, Newport Beach, Rancho Palos Verdes, South Pasadena & Torrance. Check out dates, locations & play titles HERE.

What: FREE Shakespeare performances
When: June - August, 2008
Where: Find locations, date, time & play titles HERE

xoxo, K

image via here.

Escape the heat at the movies.

The movie theater is one of my favorite summer get-aways. You get to escape reality for a few short hours, & relax in a heavily air-conditioned room (without having to foot the bill). Unfortunately, movie tickets are getting pricey, even the afternoon matinees. Good thing there is an abundance of free flicks playing this summer!

AMC Summer Movie Camp: $1 G & PG movies start at 10 am every Wednesday from June 25 - August 6th. Find the nearest location & movie selections HERE.
City of Tustin FREE Movies in the Park: Thursday Nights, July 31st & all of August, admission is FREE.
FREE Family Film Festival: FREE G & PG movies start at 10 am each Tuesday & Wednesday morning at select Regal theaters, during the months of June, July & August. Find the nearest location & movie selections HERE.
FREE for All Movie Monday's: FREE movies shown on select Monday nights at the Orange County Performing Arts Center. Show starts at 8 pm, set-up begins at 5:30 pm. For more information, go Here.
Movies on the Beach: Bring the kids, lawn chairs & treats to see movies on a giant blow-up screen on the beach. Starts at 7 pm on select Friday & Saturday nights a Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina. For specific dates & movie selections go HERE.

xoxo, K

A Sneak Peek

As a mom of two boys I strive to find clothing that isn’t the same boring jeans and t-shirt. Maybe something with a little extra color or texture, but in general boys clothes are pretty boring in mainstream shops. The founders of Peek...aren’t you curious bring their savvy fashion backgrounds to children’s clothing and offer a line of clothing that is sassy and colorful for both boys and girls.

The store is light and welcoming. There are bookshelves lined with quaint books to keep little ones occupied while Mom buys everything in sight. My favorites are their retro style track jackets for boys and their bohemian dresses for girls. I visited their Fashion Island location, but you can access their entire collection online.

xoxo, C

p.s. Rumor has it, that all Spring & Summer clothes are 50 % off starting Thursday, June 26th - Tuesday, July 15th.

Getting Fit & Having Fun.

After I had my first child, I have to admit that I was a bit surprised that all that extra weight I had gained just didn't disappear after the birth of my son. When my second son was born, I was a bit more prepared, but I was still frustrated that my extra weight didn't just melt away. Next time around, I might be checking out Stroller Strides, I love the idea that it is a fitness program that you can actually do with your baby! Sign up for a FREE class & check out the location of your local class HERE.

If you're in the area though, you can meet Lisa Druxman (the creator of the Stroller Strides program), attend her FREE master class, & get a copy of her new book, Lean Mommy, signed. & get this... the first 50 to arrive will get a FREE goodie bag & will receive a raffle ticket for the opportunity to win a FREE Stroller Stride "Bob" stroller.

What: FREE Stroller Strides Class & Lean Mommy Book Signing
When: Tuesday, June 2th, 9 am (Registration is at 8:30 am)
Where: The Village of Orange, 100 E. Village Way, Orange, CA 92865

xoxo, K

FREE Summer Concert Series

If you've already checked out our calendar, then maybe you've already noticed all the fabulous FREE summer concerts happening throughout Orange County. But they really are so incredible, we thought they deserved a post all of their own. So gather up your kids, grab a blanket & some lawn chairs, pack a picnic basket & get ready to enjoy an evening of music in the park. Just click on the cities to find out all the details.

Buena Park
Cypress
Dana Point
Fullerton
Huntington Beach
Irvine
Laguna Beach
Laguna Niguel
Los Alamitos
Newport Beach
Newport Beach: Fashion Island
Orange
Ranch Santa Margarita
San Juan Capistrano
San Clemente
Seal Beach
Tustin
Westminster
Yorba Linda
Yorba Linda: Nixon Library

xoxo, K

Patriotic duds for the kids

For him a Super Delegate shirt from Peek



For her a mod dress from babystyle (spotted at Fashion Island)

xoxo, C

Pretty and Patriotic

Is it too early to start thinking about what to wear to the 4th of July Parade? I think this outfit from top to bottom is darling (love the shoes).

xoxo, C

image via Anthropologie.com

Orange County College Admission Consulting

Applying to college can be overwhelming . We offer comprehensive college admission consulting services to Orange County residents that change the college application process from a stressful situation to a rewarding experience. Students who worked with College Materials this year have already been accepted to Stanford, Georgetown, and Columbia. College Materials provides the knowledge and guidance necessary to make students competitive applicants.Our goal is to work with students to make sure that they are prepared to apply successfully to colleges that meet their social and academic expectations. All students work directly with Coleen Bryan, a seasoned Independent College Admission Counselor from southern Orange County to ensure quality of service.

Services we offer:

* Application Assistance

* Developing an academic plan for competitive colleges

* College Essay Help (How to write a memorable essay)

* Challenging course selection and productive activity identification

* Constructing an impressive co-curricular resume

* Interview Coaching

* Identifying community service opportunities in the local area

* Early College Planning

College Materials Serves The Following Areas:

Aliso Viejo, Coto de Caza, Corona del Mar, Dana Point, Dove Canyon, Foothill Ranch, Irvine, Ladera Ranch, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Monarch Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Clemente, Talega, Trabuco Canyon

Become a fan on facebook to get the latest college admissions news!

Summer Reads

I love summer reading, but I am horrible about returning books on time and do not want to give all my spending money to Barnes and Noble this summer. Fortunately, there is a solution for people like me and its called BookMooch, a community website for swapping books. BookMooch allows you to mail your books to other members in exchange for points to go towards your next selection. They even have a program that allows you to give books to your favorite charity for points.

I am going to list my favorite summer reads next week on BookMooch: Zippy and Secret Life of Bees. Check out BookMooch and I am sure everyone in your family will find something fun to read this summer.


xoxo, C

image via flickr

Taste of Anaheim

Mark your calendars, because the 13th Annual Taste of Anaheim is almost upon us... an evening of "memorable food, and entertainment". Sample food from some Anaheim's finest restaurants, (California Pizza Kitchen, Mama Cozzas, & Roy's just to name a few), while listening to lots & lots of musical entertainment. Tickets are $35 per person & can be purchased on-line HERE, or at the Grove of Anaheim Box Office.

What: The 13th Annual Taste of Anaheim
When: Thursday, June 26th, 2008, 5:30-10:00 pm
Where: The Grove of Anaheim, 2200 East Katella Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92806 (714)71-2700

xoxo, K

Making your life just a bit easier.

So... you have two kids. Do you dread the double stroller? Too long? Awkward turning radius? Maybe it's just a touch too wide to maneuver the shopping aisles of South Coast Plaza. Never fear! Phil & Ted have heard your cry for help. Their inline stroller collection is the best of both worlds. If you haven't seen them before, these strollers start off as a single, but you can attach a second seat. How cool is that? It's narrow like a normal single stroller, yet not nearly as long as the typical tandem. I've got the older, now outdated version of this stroller, & absolutely LOVE it. It manuevers great, rides smooth, & believe it or not, my kids actually fight over who gets to seat in the back seat. With four different versions of the stroller to choose from now, there's one for everyone. I did a quick internet search & found zillions of shops selling them on-line. If you do a bit of checking, you can usually find some great deals. Free shipping, Free Doubles Kit, so take the time to do a little searching! Want to check it out in person? Rumor has it that Bergstroms has them in stock.

xoxo, K

Hurry! Quick! It's a sale!

Speaking of Harvey's, look what arrived in my inbox this morning. So, I thought I'd share the love. Just click HERE, & check out some of the savings. Better hurry quick, the sale ends Thursday, June 26th & supplies are limited.xoxo, K

p.s. special thanks to our anonymous tipster who clued us into this great deal...
type in SALE08 at checkout & get an additional 20% off the sale items!

image via harvey's.

Martha Saves Dinner

I have been in a cooking funk. I am out of new ideas and all my old recipes seem boring. I knew that I needed help when we had guacamole and popcorn for dinner last week. Luckily, I found Dinner Tonight, a great blog from Martha Stewart devoted to simple and yummy recipes. There are so many great ideas: a Broccoli Sandwich (pictured), Tortilla Soup, and even a ball-game buffet. The photos are enticing and the recipes are easy, so I may be able to eat my way out of this cooking funk with a little help from Dinner Tonight.

xoxo, C

Get your SWAP on.

This past weekend some friends & I packed up our kids & headed out to one of Orange County's true cultural experiences... the Orange County Market Place, otherwise know as "the swap meet". It is seriously one-stop shopping. Part farmer's market (the grapes were delicious & on sale for 50 cents a pound), part auto mall, part bakery (we've been enjoying our New York style bagels every morning), part clothing & toy store, part furniture gallery (I am seriously considering a few of the pieces I stumbled upon), and a little bit of everything & anything in-between. Their website boasts that they have over 1,100 merchants & nearly 4 miles of walking aisles, and I believe it! I came home with so many wonderful goodies, everything from food to toys to clothes.

For the most part parking is free, although they do offer "preferred parking" nearer an entrance for a nominal fee. Being the cheapskate that I am, I opted for the free parking & it wasn't a far walk at all! Admission is just $2, but children under 12 are FREE. Definitely something to put on your list of things "to-do", just remember the swap meet will be closed from July 11, 2008 to August 3, 2008 due to the Orange County Fair.

What: The Orange County Swap Meet

When: Saturday & Sunday from 7am - 4pm

Where: The Orange County Fairgrounds, 88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa CA 92626,

(949)723-6616

xoxo, K

image via the orange county market place.

Mom Essentials for the Beach

1. A Cute Swimsuit

2. The Wonder Wheeler Plus
The cart is like a huge stroller for all of your beach gear. I can successfully wheel a cooler, boogie board, towels, and beach toys on my own without much effort. I spotted the Wonder Wheeler for sale at a local CVS in Mission Viejo.

3. A Stylish Beach Blanket


xoxo, C

Fish House Market & Grill

One of our favorite family-friendly restaurants is the Fish House Market & Grill in Orange. It's a half-service restaurant (meaning you order at the counter, & then they bring the food out to you), so it tends to be pretty quick - which helps if you have little ones in tow. They feature homemade clam chowder, great sandwiches & wraps, fish & chips, full-on entree "specialty" plates, fish tacos & a killer mud pie. Having an actual fish market on-site ensures that everything is fresh & tasty. & just about every night of the week they have some kind of special going on...

Monday Blues: Cajun Specials all day, Endless New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

Taco Tuesday: Taco specials all day long
Wednesday Fish Fry: Endless Fried Shrimp & my favorite - Kids Eat Free
Endless Tilapia Thursdays
Saturday: Slow Roasted Prime Rib Specials
Salmon Sundays: Salmon specials all day long

Fish House Market & Grill
7626 E. Chapman Ave.
Orange, CA 92869
(714)289-2908

xoxo, K

My go-to meal.

Monday's are crazy at our house. Grocery shopping, bill paying, cleaning up after the hurricane we call the weekend. With so much on my plate, I like to keep Monday night dinners quick & easy. Here is one of my favorite "go-to" meals. You'll be surprised to see how fast everyone eats it up!

Chicken Salsa Tacos

Ingredients:

Frozen, boneless chicken breasts (at least 1 per person)

1 jar of salsa (I like the chunky kind)

Tortillas

Your favorite taco/ burrito fixings (i.e. sour cream, cheese, avocados...)

Directions:

Place the frozen chicken breasts in the crock pot. Pour the entire jar of salsa over the chicken. Put the lid on the crock pot & cook all day on low. Prior to serving, use two forks to shred the chicken. Serve with your favorite fixings for quick & easy tacos or burritos... it's also perfect for taco salad.

Can't wait for dinner!

xoxo, K

image via buckaroos.

Gifts for the surfer in your life.

Under $20: Surfer Magazine's Guide to Southern California Surf Spots, the ultimate guide to catching the best waves in southern california.

About $50: Billabong boardshorts, a necessary accessory for anyone hitting the waves.

Just over $100: Californa State Parks Annual Day Use Pass, perfect for parking at his favorite surf breaks.

xoxo, K

Our new bedtime ritual.

Every night before bed, we read a story (or two or three). Our latest favorite is Starry Safari... you'll hop in a jeep & head out on an adventure. A rhino will chase you, alligators will try to eat you, & you'll scare off a lion. Written in rhyme & accompanied by great illustrations, this book is sure to become a favorite in your house too. Available HERE.

xoxo, K
image via here.

The Perfect Lunch

I met my husband for lunch the other day at Panera Bakery-Cafe and it was the perfect lunch spot. I was happy because I had a crisp salad with soup. My husband was delighted because he had a huge roast beef sandwich, and the kids were happy because their kids meal came with crayons. The menu is straightforward, but I promise there is something on the menu for everyone in the family.

Mom's Favorite: Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with Baked Potato Soup
Kids Favorite: Smoked Turkey Sandwich

xoxo, C

image via Panera.

Last Minute Gifts for Dad

Time is running out to get that special guy a great gift for Father's Days, but here are some simple ideas:

• A box set of the Office (for the Steve Carell fan)
• An itunes gift card and a subscription to Paste (for the music man)
• The Link Hydro Pack (for the Backpacker)
• A gift certificate for a massage (perfect for every man)
• Be prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads (for the soon to be Dad)

xoxo, C

image via flickr

The Perfect Disneyland Purse.

I'm a Disneyland junkie. I think I love it more than my kids do. We seriously try to go once week. (Thank heavens for season passes!) But I hate taking all the "gear". Seeing as most of the time I go by myself, with two kids, I find it best to travel light. Usually that means my stroller, a couple of diapers & some wipes that I throw in the basket, maybe some snacks & my Disneyland purse. I love Harvey's perfect little wristlet. (Did you know they're locally owned & operated?!) The purse is constructed of seat belts, so you know it's sturdy & easy to clean, it has a zippered closure to keep everything safe, & it's the perfect size to carry my wallet, phone & camera. If you'd prefer something "hands-free" check out their new, hipper version of the fanny pack , the Hipster.

xoxo, K

image via harvey's.

Perfect getaway.

I don't know about you, but somedays i just want to run away from everything. Luckily, I've found the perfect place to run to... the Montage Resort & Spa in Laguna Beach. The spa is the perfect retreat, when you just want to get away for the day. Enjoy a treatment (or two), have lunch by the pool, & be sure to take advantage of all the spa amenities: outdoor lap pool, fitness room, relaxation room with fireplace, marble steam room, sauna, outdoor cold plunge & whirlpool. I'm feeling relaxed just thinking about it.

xoxo, K

image via flickr.

A girl can dream...

If you haven't noticed already, let me be the first to tell you - it's beach season! If I had some money burning a hole in my pocket, I probably pick up THIS beach bag by Orla Kiely. The outside is made of laminate so it wipes clean easily & inside you'll find divided compartments & zipper pockets perfecting for storing your sunglasses, spf & any other beach necessities. But, I've saved the best for last... because it's last season's bag, it's on sale, check it out HERE. A girl can always be stylish... even at the beach.

xoxo, K

image via orla kiely.

The Perfect Pink Kimono

The combination of pink, chocolate brown, and the fact that you can buy this cute little kimomo sleeper for under $10.00 makes it a great choice for the new baby girl in your life. The sleeper is designed by Dwell for Target.

Spotted at Irvine Spectrum Target

xoxo, C

image via target.com