raised by culture

Macy's Summer Food Truck Tour

2013-05-17T10:52:00.000-07:00

You know I love Macy's events and had to (HAD TO!) share the Macy's Summer Food Truck Tour with you - This Summer Macy's will take to the highways and back roads of America serving up the best of America's cuisine created by icons of the Macy's Culinary Council: featuring hot dogs and ice cream for FREE! Don't you just love Macy's?! I do!

You can find the truck right outside the Macy's South Coast Plaza Women's Department - Enjoy!

Saturday, May 18 at 1 PM

Macy's South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa, CA

Macy's Summer Food Truck Tour will also be stopping in these cities - get your food on!

Saturday, June 1 at Noon

Macy's Memorial City, Houston, TX

Saturday, June 22 at TBD

Macy's Woodland Hills, Tulsa, OK

Saturday, June 29 at TBD

Macy's Marketplace, Rochester, NY

This post is sponsored by Everywhere Society.

My Mom's Cancer Is Our Cancer - Sponsored Video

2013-05-17T00:01:00.002-07:00

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of the American Cancer Society.

It has been three years since my mom's cervical cancer diagnosis.
And only two years since her clean bill of health.
Three extra Birthdays she's been here with us.

I don't think I'll ever get used to the idea of my mom having cancer. Once the scare is there, it will always be there. I still remember the day I got the call from her. My husband and I were both working and in school full-time so on the rare occasion that we got out early from school, we would have dates before we had to pick Duke up from daycare. That one particular day I was exhausted from being in class from 8am-3pm but we decided to do some shopping. I barely walked in the door of the store and my phone rang. It never rings and never from my mama at that time. She asked me if I was sitting down, I said that we were out. She immediately said she would call me back later. I remember raising my voice and telling her, "YOU TELL ME NOW". After that is when my memory gets a little fuzzy. I can't remember if she passed the phone to my sister or she told me that her Dr. found a mass and it looked cancerous. I honestly don't remember. I do remember that my husband said I looked like I was going to faint. We rushed out of the store to pick up Duke, got home and I threw myself onto our bed and cried my eyes out. She was 1500 miles away, what could I do besides cry.

When the diagnosis was confirmed and my mom's hysterectomy was scheduled, there was no question that we would have to make the trek to Texas. Flights were crazy expensive and my husband knew how much it meant to me... he offered to drive. We had to arrange with our professors and our employers to take extra days off, get the boys out of school, bought a AAA membership, got a tuneup for our truck... We moved mountains because I wanted to just hug my mom again.

This is my mama a year after her surgery and radiation. We were all in Alabama for my cousin's Wedding which ended up being a mini family reunion. She is in rare form and acting silly...she might call me over these photos but I love that she is so full of life - not ready to give up!

Cancer sucks and that's me putting it lightly. During the last 100 years, thanks to 15 determined physicians and business leaders who wanted to raise awareness of cancer, the American Cancer Society has led the way in saving lives and creating more birthdays.

On May 22, 2013, the American Cancer Society will be celebrating it's 100th Birthday. This is a huge milestone for the American Cancer Society - they have contributed to a 20 percent decline in cancer death rates in the US since the early 1990s. They helped save nearly 1.2 million lives during that time. The American Cancer Society continues to fight for everyone to have access to quality health care, lifesaving screenings, clean air and more.

This post is sponsored by the American Cancer Society.

Sometimes You Need An Adult Playdate At Disneyland #justgothappier

2013-05-13T00:31:00.003-07:00

In between getting my layoff letter and my business trip to Arkansas was Disneyland. My freakin' awesome friend Ruby invited me as her +1. I honestly didn't know I was going to go till the day before because I was trying to make excuses that I'd be so tired for my trip... but it was exactly what I needed! I am so happy she pushed me to go with her. I want to say the last time I visited Disneyland without kids was when I was pregnant with Duke in 2005.

Our day was mellow, we weren't in a rush to get on every ride to get our money's worth. We started in California Adventure, did a little shopping and ended up in Disneyland. We strolled down Main Street and decided to have lunch at Carnation Cafe. The wait was 20-30 minutes. We left our name on the list for first available, was given a pager and headed over to Penny Arcade. Ruby had never "met" Esmeralda and after I got my card, I insisted she get one too. Her fortune was right on. An instant Esmeralda fan! We checked out some of the Disney sweet treats and returned to Carnation Cafe. The minute we sat down, the pager went off. We were escorted by an older Latino man in chef whites and when he sat us down, I had to ask him if he was Oscar Martinez - the longtime Disneyland cast member I had read about. He said yes - he has been at Disneyland for 57 YEARS. I geeked out and Ruby & I took our pictures with him. Our server Philip was just as magical. I ordered Chicken Fried Chicken and it was yummy. Ruby and I split a slice of coconut cake with mango sauce. Food was incredible. Experience was memorable. Thank you Oscar and Philip!!!

We rode Indiana Jones, sat on a bench behind Sleeping Beauty Castle and people watched. We ran into blogger friends Liz, Nicole and Dariela at Fantasy Faire and caught The Beauty & the Beast show. It was amazing. I know watching shows at Disneyland isn't really a thing but you have to see it. It's done in vaudeville style - so entertaining, so funny. I loved it! We headed back to California Adventure and met up with Ruby's friend Cynthia and got on Radiator Springs Racers. Liz totally convinced me to ride it and I'm glad I did! (I'm usually a wuss) - It is now my favorite ride at California Adventure.

Another favorite: The Mad T Party chairs. So pretty to the eyes but so comfy to tired feet. We totally vegged out and laughed an hour away.

At this point of the night, the kids would be tired and whining to go home but I got to enjoy World of Color (another first) and it was simply magical. Sometimes we parents get too caught up in parenting and don't experience good, quality time away from our kids. Trust me I don't have guilt about getting away for a couple hours or a few days - my kids need it just as much as I do. So yeah, sometimes you need an adult playdate at Disneyland. Thank you Ruby!!!

Ruby with Oscar Martinez and Philip at Carnation Cafe

Fantasy Faire - Beauty and the Beast show

We ran into fashion blogger Cid who was celebrating her Birthday at Disneyland!

Me with Dariela & Ruby / Liz & I

Oh these chairs. I want them!

*I also got to meet blogger friend Ericka!!! (sadly not pictured)

Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post. Ruby was invited to a blogger event at Disneyland and I was her guest. I am not obligated in any way to write this post. We paid for our own meal. All thoughts are my own.

Staring Into The Abyss Of Unemployment

2013-05-10T11:50:00.003-07:00

Before I left for the SoFabCon conference last week in Arkansas my husband and I received our "layoff" notices from work. I wanted to go on my business trip with my "everything is fine" mask on and I tuned out the layoff notice. We knew it was coming, for a couple months now but I was in denial. This couldn't happen to us. Not me or my husband because we are good people, we work hard. Our current employer lost the contract at Honda Center (Home of NHL Anaheim Ducks) and the building did not want to keep all of us Union employees. From a business perspective, it made sense. Dollars and cents that is. They would let go of all of us and hire new employees at minimum wage. I have been at Honda Center for 18 years and I always thought the day I would say goodbye would be on my terms.

I went on early maternity leave in January 2012 and shortly after the birth of Omar in April 2012, I requested to take one year off. My return date was to be September 1, 2013. I wouldn't have been able to go on early maternity leave and take extra time off if it wasn't for being a Union member. I wouldn't have excellent health insurance, seniority, vacation pay and a savings plan if it wasn't for my Union. I'm devastated that I will no longer have Honda Center to call my home away from home. When there was a lockout at the beginning of the season, we tapped into our savings to survive - we hung in there!!! I wish Anaheim Arena Management would just give us a little respect and tell us their plans. I need closure.

I am in tears as I write this. I have one post sitting in my draft folder - I have a hard time hitting publish on that one because I come off as mad. And I refuse to let the powers that be turn me into that person. I could go into the details of my personal and professional growth of being somewhere for 18 years but it is mentally/physically/emotionally exhausting. The arena has been a part of me and my family for 18 years. I loved going to work. I love my coworkers. I am very proud to be part of the machine that kept Honda Center going. I wish it didn't have to end like this.

Today my "everything is fine" mask is off and I'm scared of what is next for us. #thisisme

Sharing some of my favorite Honda Center memories in pictures ---
One of my favorite posts was about Florence who works for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. 27 years and she is addicted to the lifestyle. I got to see her a couple years ago and gave her a copy of this picture.
Two of my favorite coworkers - also Honda Center lifers! A Ducks game fell on Halloween and we got to dress up!

Ducks Season Ticket Holders during 2007 Stanley Cup Finals! I remember when she was pregnant and now that baby is in school!

I was there when we won the Stanley Cup!

I will miss you Arrowhead Pond of Anaheim / Honda Center.

Fourteen Candles At Medieval Times, Buena Park

2013-05-08T20:30:00.004-07:00

My boy with the light eyes, long hair and crazy sense of humor turned 14 on Sunday. He is a little more mellow than our oldest and the littles so I really wanted to do something special for him to show that mama adores him. Even though he is fourteen, he is still my baby. He is the only one that tells me he loves me still (without me saying it first), the one always walking at my side and holding my hand just because. I love it. The surprise? Dinner at Medieval Times.

On his Birthday morning, I was traveling home from Arkansas, barely slept two hours before my flight and my time was all out of wack so I didn't text him "Happy Birthday" when he woke up that morning. My husband picked me up from the airport and when I walked in the door I rushed to him, smothered him with hugs, kisses and happy birthdays. Dinner wasn't until 4:30pm so we hung out at Knott's Berry Farm for a few hours and while we were there, I absentmindedly blurted out, "We still have a couple hours till Medieval Times". My 16 year old and 7 year old were shocked - I ruined the surprise! What a fail! But you know what... Medieval Times totally saved the day. The dinner and tournament was AMAZING. We all cheered for the Red & Yellow Knight and booed at the other Knights. We ate without utensils, licked our fingers and watched swords spark! It was a great time and the perfect way to celebrate my son Damien!

Surrender to an age of bravery and honor and witness epic battles of steel and steed during our ALL-NEW SHOW. From ringside seats, discover a feast of the eyes and appetite with more action, more fun & more excitement than ever before. As you thrill to a rousing live jousting tournament, marvel at awe-inspiring horsemanship and falconry, Medieval Times serves a four-course meal fit for royalty.
Hang on to your helmet. The show is about to begin.

After you check-in you make your way to The Court of Flags door. (Doors open at 4:45pm for the 6pm show - we got there early so got to check out the action)

The Lord Chancellor opens the door and introduces Don Carlos The King and his daughter Princess Catalina. Our littlest Omar caught their attention by giving them a funny look!

After they greet you, you get colored crowns which signifies your section. We got the Red & Yellow Knight! And then you take a picture with the King.

You go through the courtyard and enter another hall (I forgot to catch the name) where you can order drinks, buy souvenirs, look at the horses and pay for a show announcement.

This horse Hispanico was absolutely gorgeous. I almost thought he wasn't real!

Guests of the Castle listening to announcements from Lord Chancellor - lots of Birthdays!

We're finally in our section and get to eat with our hands!

My 14 year old!

Bread and soup - was actually really good!

Lord Chancellor and our wench!

Our section was crazy for our Knight!

The Red & Yellow Knight Lord del Font hyping us up!

The chicken was delicious (I'm really not just saying that, it was good and I was impressed)

This was really good too - it was served hot and I wanted more!

My happy boys!

Medieval Times is currently running this promo: Adults $39.95 / Kids $29.95 with code: 3929WEB

Get Social with Medieval Times Buena Park: @MedievalTimesCA on Twitter / Like Medieval Times BP on Facebook

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: Medieval Times graciously provided tickets for my family and I to check out the show. The giveaway is sponsored and fulfilled by Medieval Times. All thoughts are my own.

Swelter Stopper is Open For Summer!

2013-05-08T13:16:00.001-07:00

I stepped off a plane on Sunday morning, was home for an hour and back out the door with my family to check out Coca-Cola's Swelter Stopper at Knott's Berry Farm. I talk about my city and Coke equally. My love is unwavering so I didn't care how tired I was! I had to make it out! The day was gloomy but we loved it (we get cranky once the temps hit 74 degrees) and the minute we were driving up Beach Blvd. you couldn't miss seeing the Coca-Cola signs and bright, big, red truck! I almost hopped out of the truck I was so excited!

So the goods!

The Swelter Stopper is Open for Summer!!! It will be making stops from April to September in CA, NY, FL, MO, GA and more - check the calendar here.
Coca-Cola launched ahh.com and you can keep adding h's all Summer long - it will eventually hit 27 h's! (It's up to 12 h's right now!) Check out each ahhh.com - there is something different on each site!
Swelter Stopper is at 50 degrees all Summer long - perfect for cooling down!
On the menu at the Perfect Serve Ice Bar: Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Coca-Cola Zero and Cherry Coke
You can make a video and share it with friends and family
There is a DJ and amazing energy dance floor! There are only 2 of these in the US! You dance on the floor, it takes your movement and powers up the floor and shows you on the screens how much work you are putting in!
Best part of the tour? Coca-Cola brings their own recycling bins!

Next stop is in Northern California at Great America - Make sure you visit!!!!!

The Swelter Stopper was parked outside of the park so you don't even have to pay admission to check it out! FREE ALERT!

My son Duke screamed when he saw me on the screen! He was so excited!

Disclosure: I was invited to check out Coca-Cola's Swelter Stopper. All thoughts are my own.

Coca-Cola Swelter Stopper At Knott's Berry Farm

2013-05-03T00:41:00.002-07:00

Today through May 8th from 11am-5pm - you can check out the Coca-Cola Swelter Stopper in front of Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, CA! Experiences Include... "Perfect Serve" Ice Bar, Interactive Gaming, GreyScreen Video Studio, Photo Station and Energy Dance Floor! And it is all FREE!!!

We happened to pass by this morning on the way to the airport and the truck looks amazing! I can't wait to check it out this weekend!

For more information, visit swelterstopper.com

Like Coca-Cola on Facebook

@swelterstopper on Twitter

Instagram: swelterstopper

Disclosure: This is not a compensated or sponsored post. I love Coca-Cola!

All Birthdays Need A Smash Cake! #BirthdayBundle

2013-05-03T00:14:00.001-07:00

You don't need a perfect party to have a good time. I only learned that a couple weeks ago after my son's 1st Birthday party. I spent weeks planning and I was so stuck on everything going to plan when all that really mattered was if the kids had fun! Kids are the best because they have no expectations, make friends easy and no worries --- They could've really cared less if I set up a fun photo booth or the cupcakes melted! But you know what makes a party? A smash cake! This was unheard of with my three oldest kids! And you surely didn't put your kid's face in it! The horror! So in my never ending quest to save a buck, I came across the $5 Birthday Bundle at Vons (also Pavilions and Safeway). For only $5 you get a Betty Crocker Cake Mix, Betty Crocker Frosting, Betty Crocker Rainbow Candles and a 2-liter 7-Up! Hello easy and delicious smash cake! You don't have to spend a small fortune on cake!

You totally don't have to have a special occasion to pick up the Birthday Bundle!

Stir up that frosting real good!

I baked the cake in a 13 x 9 pan and used a bell jar to cut out 2 cute circles of cake!

I'm telling you - super easy!

So it doesn't look perfect but the price, ease and taste was perfecto! Right on the money!

I overpaid - don't make the same mistake!

Look for the dedicated display in the baking aisle and be sure to use your store's loyalty card to receive the Birthday Bundle for $5! It is available at all Vons, Pavilions and Safeway stores from now till May 21, 2013!

This shop is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and SAFEWAY but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #BirthdayBundle http://cmp.ly/3/8vNxcO.

The Craft of Blogging Workshop

2013-04-30T15:48:00.000-07:00

Oh hey! I am one of the founders and sharers of The Craft of Blogging workshop! My blogging amigas Ruby of Growing Up Blackxican (writer for Babble) and Denise of Pear Mama (writer for Baby Center) are just as awesome as me and we created this workshop to help you! If you have ever wanted to start a blog or you have a blog but don't know how to monetize (or make that next step) - this 5 hour workshop is for you. We will cover blogging basics, discovering your voice, finding inspiration, growing your readership, monetizing and advertising, connecting with brands and working on campaigns! We want you to ask questions and we want to sit down with each of you and discuss your blogging future!

The first step is registering. Do it, do it now thecraftofblogging.eventbrite.com

Do you like extras? We are including lunch and an awesome goodie bag in the price of the workshop! The "swag" that Ruby scored is amazing - it truly shows her relationship with her brands: McDonald's, Neutrogena, Pampers and Lowe's to name a few! Denise hooked up with iLoveToCreate and Crafty Chica for some awesome swag too. I love small business and was able to score some handmade notebooks by Skinned Knees. But that's not everything - I have boxes arriving daily and my kitchen is a hot mess from acting as my storage area. Swag is cool but it's not everything - we wanted to highlight brands we love working with, our main focus is giving you the tools to do things with your blog.

Our event will be at The Makery - a very cute craft shop and studio in Anaheim, CA

We are 18 days away, take that first step - I dare you.

For more updates: @craftofblogging on Twitter

Like The Craft of Blogging on Facebook

Follow the hash tag #craftofblogging

Semi-Homemade Picadillo: Made With CravOn Fries!

2013-04-30T10:53:00.005-07:00

You know what I love? Getting food delivered to my front door to review. I noticed a few blogger friends share pictures on Instagram and write posts on new, never fried french fries called CravOn! Since our family is huge on potatoes and we prefer baking frozen fries over frying, I knew this would be soon on our grocery list! But by the magic of blogging (and having good blogger friends), I was able to score a box of the deliciousness that is CravOn.

So what's the big deal? We found a way to prep CravOn fries without flash frying, which means they have 50 percent less fat* than traditional frozen fries. So instead of tasting oil you’ll taste real, fresh potatoes. Don’t get fried. Get never fried.

The taste: Just five ingredients – potatoes, olive oil, sea salt, annatto and caramel color.

We were sent all 4 cuts to taste test: Ripple Cut Fries (crinkle), Diamond Cut Fries (exposed skin on edges), Anytime Diced Fries (a perfect snack or side dish to any meal) and Steak Cut Fries (hearty).

You bake for 20-25 minutes at 450 degrees until crispy and golden. Yes these are a little on the lighter side because I'm not a fan of crispy. Eating these doesn't make you feel guilty because they aren't fried and you don't feel weighed down. I didn't get the itis. They are perfect alone or with ketchup.

I wish I took better pictures but they didn't even last 5 minutes in my house. I baked the Anytime Diced Fries, browned a pound of ground beef, added taco seasoning and made semi-homemade Picadillo! They were so good in corn tortillas. I imagine they would be good in flour tortillas too! YUM!

You can sample CravOn - check out their Truck Schedule!

Get Social with CravOn: @CravOnFries on Twitter / Like CravOn Fries on Facebook

Disclosure: CravOn Fries graciously sent me their products for review purposes. All thoughts are my own.

Spend The Summer at Knott's Soak City

2013-04-30T09:18:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite things to do in Southern California with kids is spending the day at Knott's Soak City. We had season passes when I was pregnant with Duke. We were there just about every day and I had the best tan. Our routine was to get there early and get chairs in the shade but in a central area. That was the #1 priority. Once that was settled and sunscreen was applied, the kids went on their own and I got to relax.

Of course I would insist on family time and our family favorites are:

Gremmie Lagoon offers our smallest thrillseekers their own pint-sized playground of interactive octopus, submarines and other oversized landmarks that squirt, sprinkle, soak and splash kids and parents too!

Height Requirement: Must be UNDER 54 inches barefoot

Sunset River You can’t resist the lazy river action of the 1,780-ft.-long Sunset River. At one-third mile in length, Knott’s giant figure-eight waterway is the widest and one of the longest water park lazy rivers in the world!

Height Requirement: Guests under 42 inches must be accompanied by a responsible adult

Rider Safety: Swimmers under 48 inches must wear a life vest

Tidal Wave Bay Locals know to head for our 750,000-gallon Tidal Wave Bay for the City’s best surf. Here, you can bask in the sun when the waves are “off” and shoot the curl when the breakers start rolling in!

Height Requirement: Guests under 42 inches must be accompanied by a responsible adult

Rider Safety: Swimmers under 48 inches must wear a life vest

Toyota Beach House Exclusively for tomorrow’s surfers, the Toyota® Beach House offers three stories of hands-on water fun including interactive water guns, nozzles, faucets and other surprises. And beware! Every five minutes the water bucket unloads 500 gallons of water on anyone below!

The kids would beg for Dippin' Dots before we called it a day and if they were lucky we'd do it all over again the next day! I highly recommend getting Season Passes. They have been the answer to boredom for us and necessary for those intensely hot Summer days. We are so excited for opening weekend, we're excited to let the baby play in Gremmie Lagoon!

2013 Knott's Soak City Pass Prices: All 2013 Season Passes allow unlimited admission to Knott's Soak City during public operating days.

Adult Season Pass $59.99 - or 6 payments of $9.99

Jr./Sr. Season Pass $56.99 - or 6 payments of $9.49

PRICES GO UP ON MAY 27th!!!

For more information on Soak City, please visit www.soakcityoc.com

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I am a member of GigaSavvy Blogging Network and will receive tickets for this event as well as for the giveaway. All thoughts are my own.

Super Cute Toy Alert: Octonauts at Toys R Us!

2013-04-29T10:15:00.003-07:00

The first time we saw the Octonauts was when we were waiting in the Pediatrician's office - Omar was only a couple days old and he had jaundice. They sent us home with a biliblanket and we had to come in every day to have his blood checked. Our stress levels were explosive because of the rough labor and delivery I had and now Omar's jaundice so for a few minutes that day our minds were curious about the cute show we saw while sitting in the Doctor's office. My husband and I thought they were so cute and wondered if they had toys because we are suckers for cute characters. That was a year ago (almost to the date!) and they are still one of thee cutest kids shows ever. When the opportunity came up to review new Octonauts toys, I was so excited because I wanted to check them out! Kids almost never turn down toys so this was a no-brainer. It definitely had to pass my test.

A huge box arrived and I could not believe how adorable everything was. I was bummed that the recommended age for the toys is 3+ years old. Omar wouldn't be getting play time with the Octonauts anytime soon but that didn't stop our 7 year old Duke from totally geeking out about the Octonauts Octopod Playset and Octonauts Gup-B Mission Vehicle & Kwazii.

If you aren't familiar with Octonauts - it airs on Disney Junior and follows the daily adventures of a team of eight underwater heroes that explore the world's oceans, rescue the creatures who live there and protect their habitats - above and below the waves!

Octonauts Octo-Compass is really adorable. I let Omar play with this toy because you can hear phrases from your favorite Octonauts characters Barnacles, Kwazii and Peso. We thought the creature sounds and Octo-Alert signal were fun! It retails for $12.99 at Toys "R" Us.

Octonauts GUP-B Mission Vehicle & Kwazii are our second favorites. The GUP-B mission vehicle works on both land and in water so guess where Duke wanted to play with them? Yep, in the tub! The creatures totally change color in water. This set retails for $14.99 at Toys "R" Us.

Octonauts Rescue Assortment Barnacles & Tunip is a great addition to the GUP-B Mission Vehicle set - this action figure set comes with a Tunip water-squirter, a clamshell and sea creatures that also change colors in warm water! Duke enjoys these during his baths too. I let Omar hold Captain Barnacles during his bath. This set retails for $9.99 at Toys "R" Us.

Octonauts Octopod Playset is the motherlode. This set is super cute and Fisher-Price always has high marks with me when it comes to playsets. I remember my playsets when I was a kid and many times look for those vintage toy sets when I'm out thrifting or vintage shopping. They are excellent quality and make the best memories. The Octopod Playset is on that same level. Excellent quality and fun for all - yes even me. It makes me so happy passing this playset in my living room. I don't even have to tell you how much fun the one year old and seven year old have with the 10 play pieces including Barnacles, Kwazii, a mini GUP-A, 3 creatures, 4 rescue tools and a clip-on Octo-Alert that features phrases and sounds! This retails for $34.99 at Toys "R" Us.

Omar inspecting his loot!

For more information on Octonauts, please visit www.octonauts.com or at Octonauts Facebook page at facebook.com/octonauts.

Disclosure: I was sent Octonauts toys for review. All thoughts are my own.

Color Blocking Is Cool #IHeartMyNailArt

2013-04-29T03:45:00.003-07:00

The first few years after having the first three kids, I went into cocoon mode - I stayed insulated. But with Omar, we have been non-stop socialites and it feels good. Since my blogger sister and business partner Ruby is in town only for a few months, we're trying to make the most of it and plan fun stuff. Last Friday night we planned a girls night in at The Makery. A friend of a friend came and taught us about nail care and color blocking. We ate pizza and indulged in chocolate. Our laughs were loud and you could not ignore the busy buzz of exciting stories. The aura was beautiful and alive. More nights like this are absolutely necessary for my sanity. I think I'm going to make it a priority in my busy life to hang out with the girls for a few hours at least once a month!

At our little girls night in party, I learned some interesting things that I never knew before because 1) I was a tomboy 2) I'm a mom of boys and maybe I'm turning into one!

-Apply a clear coat first, this will fill in ridges and keep nails from yellowing

-Apply a clear coat after, this will seal the polish and make your manicure last longer

-To remove glitter polish, soak a cotton ball in nail polish remover and leave on your nail for a few minutes

-If your nails are yellowing, use a toothbrush with whitening toothpaste and brush your nails

-Color blocking your nails is applying 2 or more colors in geometric shapes

-Use paper tape, washi tape, painter's tape to color block

-Buy cheap paint brushes and use it to create designs on nails

-Push your cuticles back

-Use cuticle oil on your nails! If you have none, use extra virgin olive oil!

Our fun little setup!

I love yellows, blues and pinks!

Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear is on sale 2 for $5 and for every $5 you spend, you get 1,000 points with your Balance Rewards card!

Brisk Blue is AMAZING. My new favorite color.

Sally Hansen's product line is huge - I had to go to two different Walgreens to find the nail art pens. But you can buy them online and even find out if your local store carries a specific product! You can check out my shopping trip to Walgreens on my Google+ album

You can enter Sally Hansen Pinterest Party - Win a Year's Supply of Sally Hansen!

I made this board of color blocking inspiration - the formula I like is: one bright, one bold and one neutral. Japanese artists Yayoi Kusama and Murakami were both inspirational - both have collaborated with Louis Vuitton. Their color choices are amazing. Nail blogs Chalkboard Nails and Gnarly Gnails were also inspiration. If you haven't been to their blogs, go!

We had pizza but snuck in these goodies before, during and after!

Looks easy enough but really, my biggest issue is time. Be patient and don't take off the tape before your polish is dry!

So so many laughs!

Sandra admiring her nails! Love the yellow and blue combo!

Francisca loves her checkerboard color block nails!

I was a little inspired by Sally Hansen Color Curves

We are cool!

Get Social: @SallyHansen on Twitter / @Walgreens on Twitter

I am a member of the Collective Bias® Social Fabric® Community. This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias® and COTY #cbias #SocialFabric

Judge Me By My Fresh Business Cards From Minted

2013-04-28T21:17:00.002-07:00

Business cards are serious business. I'm not going to lie, I totally judge people by their business cards - it is a representation of who they are. I'm only kidding, I won't judge you!!! I do love a good business card though. They get priority seating in my collection! Minted has been on my radar because they have the freshest designs by indie-designers! When you choose to personalize a design, it displays the designer's information and other designs made exclusively for Minted. Personalizing was EASY! I just chose the design I wanted, quantity, paper and clicked personalize --- then you click on the text to change your greeting, font, color and size! If I can do it, you can do it. There is also an option to upload your own image.

By shopping at Minted, you support independent designers. Designers submit and collaborate, you vote, and Minted sells the winning designs. There are 43 countries represented in Minted's designer community. 6% of net sales goes directly to the designers. Minted offers 230 business card designs and I would take all of them if I could. I had a hard time choosing my favorites and still second guessing myself! Help me choose my next business card for when I attend BlogHer Food in June!

Just For Entertainment by Lehan Veenker

Vintage Massage by Aspacia Henspetter

Friendly Type by Jana Volfova

I chose to customize the Vintage Streamer design by Wondercloud Design. What do you think? I love it!

Disclosure: I am receiving business cards from Minted in exchange for this post. All thoughts are my own and not influenced by Minted.

Knott's Berry Farm Timber Mountain Log Ride Opens May 30th

2013-04-25T08:57:00.003-07:00

I know the Knott's Berry Farm Boardwalk announcement was exciting but even more exciting is news about my favorite ride at Knott's Berry Farm!!! The Calico Log Ride! It has and always will be my favorite. There is just nothing like it. It is a true classic. The Calico Log Ride opened on July 11, 1969 with screen legend John Wayne. This year the newly renovated ride will open with a new name Timber Mountain Log Ride and upgrades. Garner Holt Productions of San Bernardino is working with the Knott's team to upgrade all the ride figures and sets as well as add new scenes and characters to enhance the ride experience while still maintaining the original theming and storyline of the attraction.

I'll be honest. Ever since I became a parent, I don't really do "scary" rides anymore. I've discussed this with other parents and they feel the same. That being said, I am so excited to ride the log ride!

Congratulations Knott's Berry Farm!

The original sketch by Calico Log Ride designer Bud Hurlbut

Bud Hurlbut and Walter Knott

The Knott's - Cordelia and Walter Knott with John Wayne! Cordelia is christening the ride with a bottle of boysenberry!

Over the years...

One of the new scenes!

Making figures at Garner Holt Productions

I was AMAZED at how realistic the figure and animals look - Excellent work Garner Holt Productions!

Creative Design Director Bill Butler of Garner Holt answering questions in Scene 6 of Timber Mountain Log Ride

The outside of the Log Ride was drained - never realized how deep it really is!

Disclosure: I was invited to a media preview and hard hat tour.

Knott's Boardwalk Opens Memorial Day Weekend

2013-04-25T08:28:00.004-07:00

I live in Buena Park so we're always driving by Knott's Berry Farm. Even after all these years I still get excited to see the Knott's skyline. Last year I noticed that Perilous Plunge was closed and wondered what would be coming in! Turns out Knott's was super busy revitalizing the Boardwalk! The area will further enhance the feeling of strolling down a colorful California Boardwalk fun zone filled with amusement rides, games, and fun food offerings. Opening on May 25th for Memorial Day weekend are THREE new rides! The new Coast Rider will have everyone clinging to the handrails as they ascend 52 feet for a harrowing journey down a 1,339 foot track filled with hairpin turns, twists and spins. The Surfside Gliders let guests take the ride into their own hands as they pilot their two-man aircraft for a bird's eye view of the entire Boardwalk area. Rounding out the trio of attractions is the Pacific Scrambler where everyone gets caught in the spin. AND Knott's Boardwalk will be optimized for an exciting nighttime experience!

My family is so excited to visit Knott's Berry Farm this Summer!

Congratulations Knott's!

Here's the mockup of Knott's Boardwalk at night!

Logos for Coast Rider and Pacific Scrambler

Look it's my buddy Snoopy! We were standing on the base for Pacific Scrambler. Hard to imagine that in a month there will be a ride there!

The white and orange attraction is Coast Rider!

To take advantage of all the new offerings and experience all of Knott's Farm Fresh Fun, the park is selling 2013 Season Passes for only $72 or 6 easy payments of $12 for a limited time. As a Season Pass holder, guests receive:

Unlimited visits for the entire 2013 season
No blackout dates. That's right, no blackout dates.
Discounts at select food and merchandise locations
Discounts of Halloween Haunt tickets
Early ride time on select rides during Summer
Other great Season Pass perks and surprises throughout the year!

To purchase passes and find additional information on all Knott's Berry Farm has to offer, visit www.knotts.com

Disclosure: I was invited to a media preview and hard hat tour.

Chicken Fries & Tapatio Ranch

2013-04-20T09:19:00.000-07:00

We were at Sam's Club during our weekly shopping trip and one of the demo ladies enticed Duke when she said, "I have chicken fries". She knew exactly what to say. It was like she was speaking his language - He did a double take, looked at Chris & I and asked if he could try it. He never does that! He happily ate his sample and then begged the lady where he could find it. It was so funny! I caught their expressions when he ran over to the freezer case. It is a fact that my sons will eat any shaped breaded chicken. Dinosaurs, fries, you name it - they'll eat it.

When I tried the sample, I knew immediately that I had to try it with a Tapatio Ranch dipping sauce I had tried at a local restaurant. I had been dreaming of that sauce for weeks but didn't know if I could pull it off. Turns out it was super easy to make! EASY and so addicting! Just 2 ingredients and 3 steps. Are you planning a party or going to a party? I guarantee you will impress your friends and family with a platter of chicken fries and Tapatio Ranch sauce!

You can view the rest of our Sam's Club shopping trip on my Google+ Album

My 7 year old doesn't do sauces so I figured I would cute up his plate with onion rings and make XOXO's - he loved the idea but so did my almost 1 year old when we were trying to take shots. It was so funny seeing his little had reach in on my viewfinder that I just kept shooting!

Tapatio Ranch Ingredients
4 tablespoons Ken's Steak House Ranch
4 tablespoons Tapatio Hot Sauce

Tapatio Ranch Directions
Add Ken's Steak House Ranch Dressing + Tapatio to a bowl, stir and serve!

I added my chicken fries to the mixing dish because I wanted it to soak in there a little. After 3-5 minutes of shooting photos my chicken fries weren't soggy at all, they were perfect!

Get Social with Tyson: @ClubTyson on Twitter / Like Club Tyson on Facebook - Enter to win Six Flags tickets for your family!

I am a member of the Collective Bias® Social Fabric® Community. This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias® and Tyson #cbias #SocialFabric All thoughts are my own.

Set Your Child Up To Succeed! #QualityECE

2013-04-19T20:46:00.000-07:00

One of the hardest things I have ever had to decide was where we would send Duke for daycare. I have always worked nights so childcare was never a problem until my husband & I decided to start college when he was 4 years old. Our classes were in the day and since both of our families live in Texas, we had to find daycare. Just like other big decisions in life, we made a checklist and it included: Safety - Could we trust the staff? Cost - Can we afford it? Cleanliness - Would he be sick every other day? Education - We didn't want a high teacher turnover rate and we wanted to make sure he would be learning and not just sat in front of a tv

I mentioned to local friends we were looking around, I made calls, I did additional research and we finally chose 3 places to interview and tour. When I reached this point of the process, I wished I had resources to guide me! With all that said, I'm happy to announce that First 5 LA has launched "Quality Child Care Lasts a Lifetime" which is aimed at informing parents about the life-long benefits of quality early care and education and tips to help them make informed decisions.

Some tips I learned from First 5 LA's Quality Child Care that I could've used in 3 years ago:

Does the childcare giver respond to the children's needs and wishes?

Don't be afraid to ask if the childcare giver is certified, licensed or accredited!

Are you trained in CPR/Infant First Aid?

What would you do if my child would not stop crying?

What sort of activities and projects do you work on with children?

How do you discipline children when you see tantrums, pushing or fighting?

Thank goodness we chose a great daycare but those questions would have really helped!

Research shows that children who receive quality child care show more advanced language skills, do better in school, have fewer behavioral problems, and develop better social skills. Set your child up to succeed!

Get tips & info on choosing quality child care:

Did you know that 90% of a child's brain develops by age 5 so these early years are vital to the development how a child thinks, feels, acts, and interacts with others. Most parents are unaware of this!

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This is part of a compensated campaign with Smith New Media and ReadySetGrowLA.org. However, all opinions expressed are my own.

Craola - Stop Haunting Me

2013-04-19T15:38:00.002-07:00

Chris decided last minute (he's been full of surprises lately) last Saturday that we'd trek up to LA to check out one of our favorite artists Greg "Craola" Simkins latest show, Stop Haunting Me at Merry Karnowsky Gallery. I have said it in the past and I'll say it again, you can not look at art online - you need to see it in person. There are a few reasons for this and I'll share in a future post!

I was surprised traffic on the way up was non-existent. And by the powers that be, we found a parking space right in front of the gallery! I teased Chris that it was probably because all the hipsters left LA for Coachella. He laughed and said, I love Coachella!

I know with movies and music, I always hope that the sequels or follow-up albums are better... almost never the case but I can say... art is different. I am not an art critic but I know what I like. I know what's good. My thoughts: Craola killed this show. Slayed. His evolution is insane - love that he's using vivid colors. Greg "Craola" Simkins does a fantastic job of making old painting techniques new. Refreshing and stimulating. Take your kids.

Detailed.

Texture.

The prints from "Stop Haunting Me" show are perfectly executed. I haven't seen anything like it and we are so excited to add "The Summer Vacation" to our collection. Not the original piece because Everlast bought it but a framed print. Do not sleep on art - get one.

Greg "Craola" Simkins - Stop Haunting Me runs till May 4th, 2013
Merry Karnowsky Gallery

170 S. La Brea Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 933-4408
Open Tuesday - Saturday 12-6pm

Note: I took all of these photos but they are not copyrighted by me - if you would like to use, email xeniadroid@gmail.com

Moms Are Decision Makers #MoneyMami

2013-04-19T14:29:00.002-07:00

I am definitely not an affluent Hispanic mom but I sure can relate to this recent study released by Mass Mutual. The survey found that affluent Hispanic moms with household incomes greater than $100,000 are working to be financially responsible while managing all the household responsibilities. Working our way to be affluent, I'd say that we are trying to be more financially responsible too. I think these days all moms are concerned about the state of our families' finances.

25% of these moms see themselves as the savers and their husbands as the spenders. Again, I can relate. So true! When we're not in budget mode, my husband will spend like it's his job. I let him go a little crazy because he deserves to enjoy things.

Another finding from the survey I enjoyed reading is that these moms are starting to educate their children on finances at 6.9 years old. This is me clapping. My sons all have a Christmas budget of $100 and a Birthday limit of $25-50 each. My sons are not spoiled and even if we were wealthy they would not be spoiled. The lesson in having children on a budget is that they will bring financial responsibility with them into adulthood! Yes I learned from my mom! I am so happy they enjoy going thrifting with us and have no problem buying used clothes --- other lessons are learned: reusing and recycling. All these little steps train your littles for the big picture! Pass your knowledge down!

Are you financially savvy?

Take the Mom Financial Personality Profile Survey (English)

Take the Mom Financial Personality Profile Survey (Spanish)

Join Latina Mom Bloggers and MassMutual on April 25 from 9-10:30pm ET for the #MoneyMami Twitter Party! We’ll be discussing the results of the Mom Survey and sharing tips on household budgeting and finances. Of course, there will be prizes too, including a computer tablet and gift cards! RSVP starting on April 18^th, by visiting www.latinamombloggers.com.

I wrote this post as part of my participation in a blog tour for Latina MomBloggers on behalf of MassMutual and received compensation to thank me for taking the time to participate. However, all opinions expressed are my own.

Raybern's To The Rescue!

2013-04-15T08:22:00.003-07:00

Our family is always on the go. We are busy! Especially with an almost one year old! My husband works and goes to school. I work at home and homeschool. The teens are busy with high school and Boy Scouts. The teens love coming home from school and relaxing before they get started on homework. Relaxing to them means having a full belly and playing videogames before dinner. Their food of choice - sandwiches and chips. All the time. I don't think growing kids ever get tired of sandwiches! I know I didn't! So we switch it up for them and make sure we have Raybern's Philly Cheesesteaks in our freezer! This week is an even busier week for us because we are in go mode for Omie's First Birthday party on Sunday! I needed to shop smart - make sure I bought everything we needed for the party not only to get it out of the way but make sure I bought food that would be easy to make during the week and have enough room in my kitchen!!!

The additional dilemma is... Duke is a picky eater. The teens love Raybern's sandwiches - they just pop one in the microwave for 90 seconds and it is done. Easy, tasty, portable and filling! I figured the way to sell it to Duke would be to pair it up with Funyons. I usually don't buy them because they aren't in the budget. I will make it work!!!

So many choices but we know which ones we want!

I love that the roll stays soft!

Here we go... trying to sell it to this picky eater by letting him choose a bag of chips!

He's showing me that you put your 2 choices in that big bag! He's interested... YES! Which chips do you think he chose? You can check out my Google+ Album with my whole Sam's Club shopping trip!

I loosen the wrap, microwave and eat the sandwich right from the wrap - So simple I'm sure my 7 year old can do it! The plate is only used to hold the chips!!! Yes he chose Funyons!

Duke likes it!!!

Get Social with Raybern's: Raybern's on Facebook / Check out Raybern's Sandwiches

I am a member of the Collective Bias® Social Fabric® Community. This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias® #CBias #SocialFabric

Transformers #BeastHunters Great For Kids & Parents

2013-04-14T18:00:00.000-07:00

Transformers is loved in our home. I loved them when I was a kid, my husband loved them when he was a kid and now our sons love them. (I would be shocked if they didn't!) Transformers are timeless and Duke has been following the Transformers Prime animated series on The HUB when a new faction of Beast Transformers robots emerge on Earth: the dragon-like Predacons! When the opportunity came up to review Hasbro KRE-O Transformers Beast Hunters I went for it not only for my kid but so I could have Ripclaw Strike here!!! He is awesome! This is the first KRE-O set to enter our home, the age range is 6-12 years old. I didn't know if my 7 year old would be able to build him by himself. I just let Duke go for it. My instinct was to tell him read the instructions and then go from there but he opened the box and started opening the packages. I was worried but had his little voice in the back of my head, "Don't be like those other moms! Let me learn on my own!"

Almost an hour later and he was done! So there was a little whining in that hour but he did it... all on his own! He introduced Ripclaw Strike to his other toys and played till it was bedtime. $16.99 is a great price to pay for quiet time. I got to do dishes and catch up on some work!

My thoughts: The KRE-O set is great quality at an excellent price point. The box says: works with major brands although Duke hasn't tried it yet. He loved the 2 Kreon figures Colonel Daniel Witwicky and Ripclaw. It was challenging but not difficult for him. Ripclaw Strike is 2 figures in 1: Build a Robot or a Dragon - he's currently in dragon form. I would definitely buy more KRE-O sets for my sons or to give as gifts!

The Transformers Prime Beast Hunters Deluxe assortment features the Autobots and Decepticons with new looks and more powerful weapons to confront the new beastly Predacons! There are 16 characters (each sold separately) including Bumblebee, Wheeljack and Laserback the Predacon. The Transformers Prime Beast Hunters Voyager Class assortment features the leaders of the Autobots and Predacons as large-scale action figures! There are 6 figures in this assortment including Optimus Prime and Preadaking. The Beast Hunters product line ranges from $14.99-$19.99; ages 5 and up.

I'm a stickler for packaging. Love that the box has a handle and it's called a KRE-O Container.

I remember when he would let me open stuff for him...

Smart packaging! Love that Hasbro thought to tape the wings down instead of it getting bent in the container!

Hard at work...

Even though Duke finished this in an hour, this picture was taken the next day because he begged me to let him play!

Get Social! Transformers / Transformers Online Store / Transformers on Facebook / @HasbroNews on Twitter

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Disclaimer: I am part of the Mom It Forward blogger network, Mom It Forward and Hasbro partnered in support of this campaign. Hasbro compensated me for participation in this campaign. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

It's Friday

2013-04-12T11:19:00.002-07:00

It's Friday and an actual Friday for us because my husband just finished a two week overtime run at work and has the weekend off!!!!! He has to write a paper and we're finishing up shopping for Omie's First Birthday party because it's next weekend. I'm definitely in Momzilla mode. A year flew by. I can't believe it. My baby will be one! (But more on that later.) I am hoping for some fun, he mentioned checking out one of our favorite artists, Greg "CRAOLA" Simkins - Stop Haunting Me exhibit at Merry Karnowsky Gallery. We usually hit LA on Sundays for Sunday Funday but the gallery isn't open on Sundays. We'll see where the wind takes us....

Ponder on this. It has been weighing heavily on me for different reasons - both good and bad. I need clarity! A lot of putting it in the universe and crossing fingers!

Read a piece by Henry Rollins on American Gun Violence that I could relate to.
Henry Rollins: "America is a 50-state-wide killing field...As soon as I leave my house, I am on the kill grid." Growing up in Long Beach gave me the street smarts to survive as a kid and teen. But now as a mother, I find myself growing anxious at leaving my home with titles like this: Man cuts his arms with saws at West Covina Home Depot

Found out a Chinese station will be replacing my beloved Old School Hip Hop station KDAY. Why Southern California WHY? Do you not love the classics? The OG's? I've been sulking about it all week.

Four of my favorite fashion bloggers are featured on 15 Plus Size Bloggers Redefining Fashion Blogging!!! Gabi of Gabi Fresh mentioned one time that she doesn't only shop the plus size racks and that was an AHA! moment for me.

Sometimes I feel old and then I remember I was a teenager in the 90s. I lived it. I graduated in 1993 and this year is my 20 year high school reunion. I don't plan on attending, if someone from those days wants to find me, I'm on the Internet. 2013 also marks The Wu-Tang Clan going 20 years strong.

There were two very bizarre headlines this week. The one about Ferrets being sold as Toy Poodles made me laugh. I seriously could not stop laughing. And the one about the guy and an eel. Poor eel just going about your business, getting kidnapped, raped and then dying from the ordeal.

Thug Kitchen. 'nuff said.

And then there was this: That awkward moment when your child is watching Transformers cartoons and wondering why Optimus Prime keeps calling one of the Autobots "Ratchet". It's a tool Duke, a tool! (He has older brothers, thus the other definition he knows)

Our Mom & Son Date: Anaheim Ducks Game!

2013-04-11T09:05:00.002-07:00

Monday was the first time I ever attended a Anaheim Ducks game as a guest. I've watched as an employee from the vomitory through the years... but nothing - nothing compares to sitting in a seat as a fan. Especially when it's Ducks vs. cross-town rivals Los Angeles Kings. Our tickets weren't for the nosebleed section either. I had prime seating. It was a dream come true. Special for all those reasons and special for another reason... a date with my 7 year old! He's a funny kid. He was joking about hockey before the game but I think he's a new fan.

We let loose. We yelled, we chanted "Beat LA!" "Let's go Ducks!", We stood up and cheered. We smiled. A LOT. The game was a nailbiter. Every time the Ducks would score a goal - Kings would return with a goal too. It went into overtime but our Ducks won!!! Still #1 in the West! It was a good time. We couldn't stop talking about the game and convinced my husband that we have to take the whole family to a game!

The Smile Generation is a proud sponsor of the Anaheim Ducks for the 2013 National Hockey League season. As part of the sponsorship, the Smile Generation makes a donation to the Ducks Foundation for every Ducks goal scored during their home games at the Honda Center.

Throughout the season, Ducks fans can also visit the Smile Generation table during select home games at the Honda Center, and be treated to t-shirts, lip balm and other Smile Generation branded giveaways.

Get Social with Smile Generation: @smilegen on Twitter / The Smile Generation on Facebook

Duke could not get over how cool the Ducks blimp was.

There's our banners! A 2013 banner would sure look nice up there!

The Ducks came out to Imagine Dragons "Radioactive" song. Our family is huge fans of that song!

During the first intermission, The Smile Generation had the Smile Cam! up and so many people were excited! Huge smiles from everyone!

We snuck away to visit some of my coworkers and ran into Wildwing! YAY!!!

Big Smiles!!!

Disclosure: I attended the game as a guest of The Smile Generation. I received tickets, a t-shirt and a gift card. The opinions are completely my own and based on my experience

The New Children's Museum - San Diego, CA

2013-04-10T07:52:00.000-07:00

We recently went on a last minute staycation to our favorite city, San Diego! One of our must-see stops: The New Children's Museum! The reason why I wanted to visit is because they commission art pieces directly from leading contemporary artists and their themes are designed to help visitors think, play and create! Trash is the current exhibition and the mission is to change how we see trash, and changing perspective starts by asking more questions.

How do we decide what is trash?
How does your trash impact the lives of others?
How can we imagine new possibilities, and a new future for our trash?

Duke jumped right in and started exploring. We all wanted to venture off on our own though! There were so many things to look at and so many things to do.

My husband and I were so excited to see Vik Muniz as one of the artists. We watched a documentary called, "Waste Land" about his work.

This post is heavy on the pictures... there is more

My thoughts: The New Children's Museum knows how to curate a show. It is excellent. Bravo for the art factor - we have visited a few kids museums over the years and I always felt what I saw is easily accessible in any elementary classroom. But NCM doesn't dumb it down for the kids - they live up to their think, play, create mentality. I appreciate that since that's what we teach our children! There are a lot of details in this exhibition, take your time, take it all in and don't be afraid to touch! Check out the workshops and activities. Let your kids explore.

Duke's thoughts: It was so fun! Kids will love it!

Children over 1 and Adults are $10 each.
Closed on Tuesdays.
Every Second Sunday is FREE! Thanks Target!

The New Children's Museum
200 West Island Avenue
San Diego, CA
(619) 233-8792

@iheartncm on Twitter / The New Children's Museum on Facebook

Disclosure: I received complimentary passes to check out the museum. All thoughts are my own.