DIY Baby Shower Gifts

When you’re known for giving creative, DIY gifts to family you run yourself into a problem. You become obligated to bring creative DIY gifts to everything. Last year I attended 6 baby showers. By the last one I thought I had exhausted my gift giving creativity. But then my friend announced she was having her first baby and my creative spark was rekindled. There must be something about babies, and baby showers that brings out my creative side.

This Crunchy Jellyfish Toy caught my eye because it’s crunchy and so colorful! You can get the pattern for this easy project at Kid Independent.

How adorable are these? So cute for babies first pictures, easter or just because they’re adorable! I love that the bows are velcro for easy washing, how genius is this design by  Sitting Pretty?!

 This happy stacker from Domesticesq is soft, stackable, and will keep babies entertained for minutes at a time.
Plus, it enhances hand eye co-ordination.

One of the greatest gift I received at my baby shower was a quiet book hand made by my grandmother. I’m not quite dedicated enough to create one like this made by Home Made By Jill (I like my projects to be quick) but they are truly one of a kind gifts. They can be as simple as sewn fabric and felt or really intricate with pockets, surprises and activities inside.

These pacifier clips are a quick, new sew project and cute too. You just need some fancy ribbon and clips. Check out Events By Shelbirene for instructions.

Babies just starting to reach and explore with their hands love tag blankets. Create your own like this one from Tara Being Tara.

Oh my gosh, these are great! So cute for babies who aren’t quite walking yet and they can be made in any color. Plus, I’m Topsy Turvy offers step by step crochet patterns.

This content was originally posted on Surf and Sunshine as Adorable DIY Baby Shower Gifts. If you are reading this on another site then it has been stolen! Please let us know :)

I recently had the pleasure of staying at Now Amber with my mother and my 3 year old son.  Not only is this a fabulous luxury family friendly all-inclusive resort, but it’s an ideal place for a Mexico destination wedding. I spoke with the wedding coordinator, Edith, in depth about the ins and outs of having a wedding here and have a ton of info to share with you.

I was also able to witness a wedding take place on the beach and have the photos of this towards the end of this post. I hope this helps those of you that are considering Now Amber for your wedding location, but are unable to personally take a research trip yourself.

Now Amber would love to help you plan your special day with a complimentary onsite wedding coordinator. The resort offers a free wedding package for guests that stay 7 nights or more in a minimum required room category, or when 5 rooms in any category are booked for a minimum of 3 nights per room. You can choose from three Now Amber wedding packages with rates starting at $1,000 up to $3,000, and can customize them however you like. Edith was very open to the suggestions I had about dinner options, etc so if you have an idea – just ask!

Locations

Edith showed me the options for ceremony and reception locations. They each have pros and cons. The most common question is “What happens if it rains?”, and the answer is – DON’T WORRY! They will move it indoors for you!

They have a beautiful beachfront Gazebo on a long wood deck that can accommodate up to 150 guests. This location is great for those that want to be “on the beach” but not necessarily IN the sand. The ceremony is performed under the Gazebo and the cocktail party and dinner are setup on the deck. Note: This is not a private location. You are bordered on one side by the beach/sand and the other is the main pool. BUT the nice thing is that the pool goers start going inside just before sunset anyway.

You can also choose the beach. The ceremony is performed under a decorated arch that is specially created for you. They lay down a mat walkway on the sand which makes it fairly easy to walk in heals and avoid getting sand in your shoes. This area can accommodate 200-250 guests. The ceremony, cocktail party and dinner are all set up directly on the sand. One downfall to this location is the people and vendors who walk by on the beach, but you’re going to have this problem on ANY beach.

The above image is available on the Now Amber facebook page. The wedding I saw was also on the beach and the photos are at the end of this post.

There is also a large area between the two pools that can be set up and used (up to 200 people). It’s a little hard to see in this picture, but it’s basically where all those pool chairs are under the palm trees right in the middle of this photo below.

Edith’s favorite location is the Terrace. It’s the most private outdoor option as it is located in the center of the resort, above the Barefoot Grill. There are only two entrances – one is going thru the Castaways Restaurant and the other is a long pathway/ramp located on the Secrets side of the resort. When having a privare function, there is signage placed at each to let people know not to enter. Thing is, if Edith hadn’t pointed out this located to me – I would have never even known it was there! There is nothing but the Terrace up there so now reason to go and, as you can see, is not only above the view line of anyone at the pool or beach, but it’s also surrounded by beautiful foliage.

Another bonus to this location is that if you have young children, there are no bodies of water near by that they can jump into :)

If I were to have my wedding here, I think I would like to have the ceremony on the beach, the cocktail hour on the deck and the dinner/reception on the terrace. I didn’t ask if this was possible, but I have a feeling they would be ok with that!

For really large weddings (up to 450 people) or for when it rains, the party is moved indoors into the ballroom.

When?

Rainy season in Puerto Vallarta is typically July/August through October. High travel season is November thru March/April. Did you happen to notice that leaves MAY as being the month that has beautiful weather but isn’t busy? I can attest to this! We stayed from May 5-9 and we had beautiful 80 degree weather every day and the resort occupancy was PERFECT. There were enough other people to not feel isolated, but not enough for it to seem busy or crowded. There were always plenty of pool chairs and no waits at the restaurants. I highly recommend May for this reason!

Sunset weddings are the most popular, in the summer the sun sets between 7:30 and 8:30 PM,  between 6-6:30 PM during fall and winter. The resort recommends you allow at least an hour after your ceremony for pictures. My personal recommendation is to choose your ceremony to start 1.5 – 2 hours before sunset. This will give you excellent lighting conditions and amazing photos! And unlike other resorts that accommodate 3+ weddings per day, Now Amber only allows up to 2, held at different times and different locations.

Food and Drink

If you choose the Eternity or Divine package, it includes a 1 hour cocktail party and 3 hour dinner/reception. To continue the party into the night, guests can head to the nightclub and continue to drink and dance the night away (for no fee if you are a guest of the resort). The packages include either 10 (the Moments / complimentary option) or 25 guests (the Eternity and Devine options) and additional charges apply for more guests. The current rate is $85/additional adult, which yes – is quite high. It was explained that the cocktail/dinners are completely set up from scratch at each location and they have to hire additional staff to man each of these. I have been told they they are re-evaluating this fee and it may be lowered soon. Children 3-12 pay 50% of that price and under 3 are free.

The menu is set because this is the only way the kitchen can accommodate and serve your wedding party efficiently without taking away from the other guests dining at the resort. The biggest complaint that I have seen online from brides is that you must choose ONE option to serve everyone – meaning everyone gets the same salad, main entree, and dessert (with the exception of any vegetarian/special diet needs). However, I did ask if I gave her WELL IN ADVANCE a count of guests who wanted one option (lets say steak) and guests who wanted a different option (lets say chicken) and she said she could accommodate that request. She stated that I would need to clearly mark each place setting with a card or sticker or something so that the waiters would know who gets what.

I also asked about having the dinner in one of the restaurants, and she said that would be fine as long as you had enough guests to warrant shutting it down to the other resort visitors. Another option for those of you that really want to be able to offer a variety of food options is that you can request to have it in the Carnival Buffet restaurant. They would not be able to offer it to you exclusively, but could definitely reserve a section or group of tables so that your party would be in the same area. This is definitely the least private option though.

If you would like to have a private rehearsal dinner, it will cost $25/person for 3 hours.

Finishing Touches

The Eternity or Divine packages include things like a bridal bouquet and boutonniere for the groom, up to 2 boutonnieres and corsages for your wedding party and one table centerpiece. If you want additional, they can be made for about $20-$50 each. Local flowers include roses, lilies, gerbera daisy, bird of paradise, and orchids, but florists can get almost any variety you request.

Here are some pictures of the bouquets you can choose from that come with the packages. You can also upgrade to something different for a fee.

And these are your options for the included centerpiece (also upgradable for a fee).

The Divine package offers a musical instrument soloist for your ceremony, but none include reception music options. For the resort to provide a DJ, the cost is going to be about $880. You can also choose to set up your own ipod and ask about a speaker/equipment setup fee which would be $520 for 3 hours for the reception. If you’d like a small basic audio system for the ceremony, it is $230.

There is an outside vendor fee of $100 if you bring someone in to cover a part that the resort currently offers – photographer, DJ or Hair/Makeup. However, you are welcome to use any other vendor for any other service with no fee – ie florist, general decor, cigar roller, etc.

You are welcome to bring decorations and supplies, but be aware that if you choose to ship these items, they could get stuck in Mexican customs and not arrive on time. Edith highly recommends packing and brings any important supplies with you on the plane. *TIP* ask your attending friend, family and wedding party to each bring a few items to lessen your cost and also decrease the chance of loss!

A simple cake is included in the packages. A sample of what they look like is below. The flowers are not included, and I suggest just bringing or purchasing some from a local florist!

Things to Do

Aside from just having a fabulous wedding, another big factor for me for any destination wedding is the ability for the bride, groom and guests to have FUN. Included with your stay as a guest at Now Amber are plenty of complimentary activities:

• Aqua-aerobics
• Badminton
• Beach and water volleyball
• Beach movies
• Beach soccer
• Board games
• Boogie boarding
• Euro-bungee
• Water trampoline
• Inflatable scalable iceberg
• Giant movie screen
• Gym
• Explorer’s Club for kids
• Golf range
• Kayaks
• Kite flying
• Non-motorized water sports
• Ping pong
• Snorkeling
• Water polo
• Yoga
• Scuba diving *extra fee
• Horseback riding *extra fee
• Jet skiing *extra fee

And even more to do offsite. (Would be fun to go as a group!!) They have a tour office located right on property to help you book these and more:

• Whale watching (seasonal)
• Swim with Dolphins and Sea Lions
• Tours to Guadalajara and Tequila
• A wide variety of 18-hole Golf Courses
• Excellent game fishing and open water diving
• Eco-adventure tours
• Los Arcos National Park

Important things to know

• If you have a specific day in mind, the resort suggests planning 12 months in advance as they need at least three months for all wedding plans. A deposit of $100-$500 is required to reserve your chosen date, but there are no cancellation penalties. The balance is due on arrival.
• Mexico requires you to enter the country 2-4 days before your ceremony! (arrival day, holidays and Sat., Sun. do not count towards the 2 day requirement)
• Now Amber Puerto Vallarta requires they have all documents in hand at least 5 weeks prior to your wedding day (they must be translated into Spanish before submission). You can submit them to the resort via fax or email.
• Be aware that any wedding guests not staying at the resort are required to purchase a day pass. (discounts are available for children)
• The suites can accomodate up to 4 people – 2 adults and 2 children OR 3 adults and 1 child.
• There is a complimentary supervised Kids Explorer’s Club for children aged 3-12 that is open til 10pm. This is an excellent option for you and your guests if you’d like to have a child free wedding/dinner, but still be able to bring your kids with you on vacation. You will be given a buzzer just in case they need to contact you. If you decide to party well into the night, babysitting services are available 24 hours a day for just $10 an hour.
• TIP: A few times a year, travel agents will offer a 3G Special where you can earn 1 free stay for each 5 stays booked (max 3 free stays for 15 stays booked). This is not offered directly thru the hotel so you will want to check with your travel agent.
• A perk to having your wedding at Now Amber is that it’s family friendly. But if you have guests without children or that want to stay in a more romantic atmosphere, the other side/half of the resort is Secrets Vallarta Bay. Guests of Secrets may come over to the Now side at any time and may eat at the restaurants whenever they like. Adult guests of Now Amber may eat at the restaurants on the Secrets side, only after 6pm. No children are allowed.
• *NOTE* Once you get into the water at the beach here, its very rocky – immediately. This could make taking any “trash the dress” photos difficult or at least painful on your feet. If this is something you are interested in doing, I suggest buying a pair of water socks/shoes to wear :)

You can elect to have a civil or symbolic wedding. The fee for a symbolic ceremony is $295 (only if you want both legal and symbolic ceremonies, otherwise there’s no fee). The cost of legalization runs about $400 and requires things like blood tests. Find out more info here. Requirements to get married in Mexico:

• Certified copy of birth certificate (less than one year old) – must be certified copy
• copy of Passport or Driver’s License, if applicable
• certified copy of Final Divorce Decree or Death Certificate with seal (If divorce is less than on year prior to the wedding, the marriage will need to be approved by the Judge)
• Judge’s Form
• Visa
• Two Witnesses with copy of identification (can’t be parents or grandparents of bride/groom)
• health certificate and blood test ($300 per couple) provided by a Mexican Official in Puerto Vallarta
• names and addresses of both parents
• mandatory Pre-nuptial Briefing and Certificate of Attendance. (Ensure you allow plenty of days prior to the wedding day to attend this Pre-Nuptial course.)

Real Wedding Photos from Now Amber

This content was originally posted on Surf and Sunshine as Mexico Destination Wedding: Now Amber (Puerto Vallarta). If you are reading this on another site then it has been stolen! Please let us know :)

Oh man, have you seen the teaser trailer for “Thor: The Dark World” yet? Once you see it, you’ll understand why I can’t wait for November, when Chris Hemsworth once again, picks up Thor’s hammer, to protect the world from evil.

For the Marvel comic fans, the plot is based on the classic Super Hero Thor, from Marvel’s comic book “Journey Into Mystery” #83, released in August, 1962. I’m not really into comics, so that means nothing to me, but the trailer has me excited! I think I might have even gotten a few goosebumps listening to Anthony Hopkins set the stage for Thor’s approaching battle with the Malekith (Christopher Eccleston).

As Hopkins tells us, “before the universe there was darkness,” now it’s returned and Thor, the Mighty Avenger, must fight to save Earth and all the Nine Realms from a powerful enemy that existed even before the universe. An enemy so mighty, that even Odin (Anthony Hopkins) and Asgard cannot withstand, so he’ll seek help from his brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston). This film has good vs. evil with the fate of the world depending on bad boy Loki, and superhero Thor working together? Sounds good to me.

Wait, am I the only one wondering what’s going on with Loki’s hair? Is he trying to look like Slash or Alice Cooper?

As you see from the trailer Thor returns for Jane Foster (Natalie Portman) and brings her to Asgard with him, but the question is asked “what is he willing to sacrifice?” Hmmm, I’m thinking their relationship is headed for some drama. Other stars include: Stellan Skarsgård, Idris Elba, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Kat Dennings, Ray Stevenson, Zachary Levi, Tadanobu Asano, Jaimie Alexander, and Rene Russo.

Marvel’s “Thor: The Dark World” is directed by Alan Taylor, produced by Kevin Feige, from a story by Don Payne and screenplay by Christopher L. Yost, Christopher Markus, and Stephen McFeely. “Thor: The Dark World” lands in theaters everywhere on November 8, 2013 distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.

“Like” Thor on Facebook and follow him on Twitter @ThorMovies to stay up to date on the latest happenings in Asgard, and the universe.

This content was originally posted on Surf and Sunshine as Will The Lights Go Out In Thor: The Dark World?. If you are reading this on another site then it has been stolen! Please let us know :)

Since the birth of my daughter three years ago I’ve had an agenda to get nearly every baby product made to include a vibration feature. I wanted it in bouncer seats, swings, cradles, nursing pillows – you name it. There is something about vibrations that help soothe babies to sleep or ease restless bellies. I always wondered why the feature wasn’t included in everything? Thus on every product review of every baby item purchased I have included that one request. I can’t say if Mombo included this feature on their new mombo nursing pillow because of my campaigning (although probably not), but regardless it’s genius.

Not only did they put the vibrator in the Mombo but they put it in the perfect position and it can easily be taken out or shut off without disturbing the baby. You have no idea how much I appreciate it when a company takes the time to analyze a product from a mom’s point of view. But the vibrating feature isn’t the only thing that is spot on. The Comfort & Harmony Mombo Deluxe features two-sided design with a firm, supportive side and an extra cozy, soft side. Not to mention it’s adorable and built to last through multiple kids.

Even though it’s a great nursing pillow, Ava and I use the it for so much more. With it’s soft design and fun taggies it’s the perfect tummy time aid. Unlike laying flat on the floor, when Ava lifts her head she is able to actually look around. Plus, she has even started to reach for the colorful taggies.

Before the Mombo, anytime Maddilyn wanted to help feed Ava she had to sit on my lap and we would hold Ava together. With the Mombo I can place it around Maddilyn allowing her to feed Ava “all by herself.” While it’s the perfect nursing pillow, like most great baby products it’s versatile. The Comfort & Harmony Mombo Deluxe in Taggies Fashion Monkeys is truly one of a kind and so essential we bring it with us everywhere.

Mombo products are available at Babies R Us and I recommend them for your next baby. They make the perfect shower gift too. Be sure to like Comfort & Harmony on Facebook and follow Comfort & Harmony on Twitter.

The Giveaway

1 lucky winner will win a Mombo Deluxe Nurser of their own!

How to Enter to Win

Please use this easy giveaway form below to record your entries – good luck!!

This content was originally posted on Surf and Sunshine as Mombo: The Best Baby Products Are Versatile + #Giveaway!. If you are reading this on another site then it has been stolen! Please let us know :)

Last month, I used one of my favorite online shopping tools, Sweet Relish, to show you a Rustic Wedding inspired Spring Groomsman outfit based on the classic and handsome Blakley bow tie from Brier & Moss.

Sweet Relish was kind enough to send me one of these amazing ties to give to Ben (yippeee!) but to be honest with you, neither one of us have ever tied a “real” bow tie. After a little research online, I was unsatisfied with the “How to tie a bow tie” tutorials I found so I decided to create my own.

I hope this comes in handy for you the next time you need to dress up your dapper fellow! (and now I’m seriously considering having our groomsmen wear bow ties – I LOVE this look with the vest in the top photo!!)

What do you think? Would a bow tie fit into a beach wedding?

This content was originally posted on Surf and Sunshine as How to Tie a Bow Tie: A Step By Step Photo Tutorial. If you are reading this on another site then it has been stolen! Please let us know :)

There are plenty of hotels close to Chicago’s O’Hare airport to choose from. They come in different shapes, sizes and price points, and most of them are no more than 5-15 minutes away from the terminals at O’Hare. In such a competitive market, the hotels have to find a way to set themselves apart from each other, and the InterContinental Chicago O’Hare does it with modern flair and impressive customer service.

When I checked in Friday around 11 AM, my room was ready, and Ryan at the front desk made me feel welcome. I love that he asked how was my trip in from Texas, instead of the more generic, “how was your flight?” His smile was contagious, and reminded me if I needed anything to use the “instant service” button on my phone and ask for him.

The ultra modern look of the bathroom with the Kohler fixtures, and the subway tile, give the room a fun, contemporary feel.

After getting settled in my room, I went downstairs to the fitness center. Equipped with Life fitness elliptical machines, treadmills, and circuit training machines, this is truly a “fitness center.” While I was sad the InterContinental doesn’t have an indoor pool where I could swim laps, the assortment of machines and size of their gym makes up for it.

I loved the seating area in my room, it was perfect for Saturday evening when friends came to visit, and could sit without being on the bed. Also, the desk chair was so comfortable, that I spent half of the cold, rainy afternoon working on my laptop at the desk. There’s a fully stocked min-bar below the television, but no coffee maker in the room. Since there’s a Starbucks in the lobby that’s not really an issue, unless you have to be up at 3 AM to head to the airport, and need some java to get you motivated. True story.

 Tip: There are paintings and art throughout the hotel, so if you just want to take a stroll there’s plenty to see, and all of it is for sale.

Ready to find some dinner, I was all set to walk to a nearby Mexican restaurant Maria’s, until I stepped outside into a 40 degree rain. Since I’d already had too many unpleasant experiences with the cab drivers in the area, I headed to the front desk for some advice. As a frequent traveler, I figured they’d loan me an umbrella or a poncho and wish me well.

Instead, Tim at the front desk, walked me through the hotel and out to the back side where I was just a few steps away from the restaurant! Safe and dry, now, that’s customer service! I noticed that throughout the hotel the “employee only” areas, were labeled as “colleagues only.” I wonder if its that attitude of treating their employees with respect, that influences their treatment of guests.

Back at the Intercontinental, I ran into Tim again and got walking directions to the entertainment district, and Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar. The rain had stopped, but it was still very chilly outside. So when Tim told me if I’d call him when I was ready to return to the hotel, that he’d send the shuttle over if it was available, I was even more impressed by the customer service.

Guitar above the bar at Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar

Tip: The Rosemont Entertainment District has restaurants, bars, a movie theater, and a retro bowling alley, and is located within walking distance of the hotel.

On Friday night, Toby Keith’s “I Love This Bar’” wasn’t charging a cover, and had two live bands scheduled. If you go, grab a beer, they serve them in mason jars. Also, while there aren’t really any shops nearby at the moment, on August 1, The Fashion Outlets of Chicago will open, right behind the Intercontinental.

The bar at Fresco 21 is colorful and catches your eye

Tip: There are three restaurants on the hotel property, Capital Grille for steak, McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood, and Fresco 21 Mediterranean.

While I didn’t dine at Fresco 21 on this trip, I stopped in for a quick peek at the restaurant, and loved the bottle arrangement on the bar. Anna, the food and beverage manager, showed me the menu and gave me a quick tour of the brick oven/kitchen. The bar area has a very casual vibe, and the dining room in back is a bit more formal. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week, very convenient for busy travelers staying at the hotel.

Of course, if you want to go into the city for dinner, sightseeing, etc., the blue line train is less than a mile from the hotel, and the shuttle will take you and pick you up. The weather on Saturday, after the Cubs game was so nice, that I walked back to the hotel from the CTA station. There are sidewalks the whole way, and the area seemed safe.

Mural on the wall of the third floor of the hotel in between the elevators

With so many hotels to choose from in the O’Hare/ Rosemont area, the InterContinental Chicago O’Hare stands out for me mainly because of their outstanding customer service. David, Tim, and Ryan at the front desk were all extremely helpful, and Christopher the concierge gave me some great tips on exploring the Rosemont area. The fact that you can walk to nearby restaurants, and shops in a few months, are an added bonus.

“Like” InterContinental Chicago O’Hare on Facebook and follow then on Twitter @ICOHotel to stay up to date.

This content was originally posted on Surf and Sunshine as Customer Service Rules At The InterContinental Chicago O’Hare. If you are reading this on another site then it has been stolen! Please let us know :)

In between all my travel last month, I barely had enough time to finish my son’s new Buzz Lightyear themed bedroom. If you remember, I was working on using some new Glidden Disney Paint I found at Walmart and hand painting a new mural above his bed. I did some research and found some pictures of Buzz I liked online and purchased the supplies I needed along with supplies for a special unveiling party.

After a total of about 15 hours spread over long, late nights I managed to finish just moments before we were scheduled to have the party. The night before, Whistler and I stayed up to make some cute Toy Story Alien Favor Bags for the kids as well as some photo props. The bags turned out really great, don’t you think?

We invited over 13 adults and 3 kids to join us in a BBQ to celebrate the occasion. Ben made his famous ribs and we set up the always popular bounce house for the kids to enjoy so the adults could have a little “me” time. To throw an extra fun twist into the evening, using the props we made, the best photo of the night won a $50 Walmart Gift Card!

There were good times…

And there were bad times…

But overall, everyone had a blast!

Whistler was so excited to show off his new walls along with the new Buzz and Woody Comforter we received to complete the look. He made it a point to show everyone how the lights on the ends of Buzz’s wings, his laser and the stars all glowed in the dark and everyone oo’d and ah’d while he had the biggest smile on his face. It was in that moment that all the hard work really paid off!

I’m so glad that Glidden and Walmart had the perfect supplies I needed to make this transformation. What do you think of how it came out?

BEFORE

AFTER

This content was originally posted on Surf and Sunshine as The Unveiling of The New Buzz Lightyear Themed Bedroom #DisneyPaintMom. If you are reading this on another site then it has been stolen! Please let us know :)

When I was pregnant with my daughter we were living in an apartment so I couldn’t do a lot of painting in the nursery. In order to decorate I used a lot of artwork and some DIY projects. I wish I had thought of creating my own mobile instead of the one we bought. It matched her bedding perfectly but lacked imagination unlike these awesome DIY baby mobiles. They’re made of everything from felt, card stock and paint chips to sewn fabrics, sewing hoops and wooden wreaths. It almost makes me wish I was decorating a nursery again, almost. 

These DIY mobiles are especially great for a one of a kind baby room like the stars and clouds mobile from Our Little Casita. I love the way it matches the color scheme of the room perfectly.

I tend to think of birds as belonging in a girls room – probably because I love birds in my daughters room but I think this diy bird mobile could easily fit into a boy or girls room. Part of the beauty  in this mobile by Ecab Online is how deceptively simple it’s made.

This mobile was the first DIY Mobile I saw on pinterest and it inspired me to see what else was out there. I’ve never seen an alligator mobile  and I love everything about it! Source: Cody and Alicia

This is another mobile I would love for my daughters room and probably my favorite of them all. Source: Polly Want a Cracker

This mobile from TN Dickerson Diaries is unique in that it isn’t matchy-matchy and they used craft ribbon instead of string.

This mobile by Everything Designish is made with card stock and cost under $10 to create. To match the paint in your room exactly you could use paint chips instead of card stock. This is such an easy and one of a kind project it would be perfect for a baby shower. If you’re feeling really creative you could use shapes other than circles, vary the length and color combinations.

Even though my daughter is a toddler and may be a little to old for a mobile this would be a perfect fit in her new room just as a decoration over the reading corner. The whimsy, bright design Imprint Alish chose fits our design perfectly.

This content was originally posted on Surf and Sunshine as 7 Unique DIY Baby Mobiles For Every Skill Level. If you are reading this on another site then it has been stolen! Please let us know :)

Like barbecue in texas, horseback riding at sunset, and fresh powder on the slopes, or a tasty peanut butter and jelly sandwich, some things in life just go together. Seeing the premiere of a movie like Iron Man 3 in the plush seats of Walt Disney Pictures exclusive first run theatre the El Capitan is an experience like no other. It takes the ordinary act of watching a movie and transforms it into something extraordinary. Add in the experience of walking down the red carpet with Hollywood’s A-List’ers and paparazzi and it’s unbelievable.

The El Capitan Theatre debuted on May 3, 1926. That night sleek, black limousines departed from the El Capitan leaving behind Hollywood royalty who were attending the play of “Charlot’s Revue.” Some decades later in 1989, The Walt Disney Company teamed up with Pacific Theatres to conduct a museum-quality restoration of the legendary El Capitan back to it’s original splendor. Today it’s gleaming gold and neon signage out front is a proud display of that work. The architecture and decor inside are absolutely incredible, with amazing piece everywhere you look. I’ve seen a handful of premieres at the El Capitan and each time I walk beneath the marquee I feel as though I’m apart of that old school Hollywood royalty.

The theater itself has upper and lower seating where it’s impossible to have a “bad seat” no matter where you sit. A live organist plays the might Wurlitzer while you wait for the movie to begin and each drawing of the majestic curtains is a production in itself. The layers, the lighting and the beautiful and unique way “Hollywood” is shown as the various curtains are drawn is one of my favorite things about seeing a film here.

They have a beautiful El Capitan Wall of Fame that will take you through the history of the theater and its many famous visitors and events. Make sure you leave some extra time to take a walk down memory lane to view it (located on the second level).

On the first level of the theater they often have special exhibits of props and movie paraphernalia on display. Right now you can see a Display of Collectibles & Comic Books from the Private Collection of Stan Lee! For tickets call 1 (800) DISNEY6 or visit www.elcapitantickets.com

IRON MAN 3 is currently playing at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, CA until June 20^th in Disney Digital 3D and Real D 3D and coming this summer:

• June 21^st – August 8^th: MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (Plus, see Mike & Sulley in the MU Pep Rally with the Sprit Squad Live on Stage!)
• August 9^th – September 19^th: Disney’s PLANES

*TIP* Did you know you can have character breakfasts or birthday parties here?

Yep! We actually did both that morning because it was Jennifer of Makobi Scribe’s birthday that morning! It was my first time having the famous Mickey Waffles and they even have a fun mock up red carpet where you can take photos!

One of the only ways to follow up an experience like a premiere at El Capitan is getting an ice cream at Disney’s Soda Fountain and Studio Store and doing a little shopping. If the El Capitan is the embodiement of glamorous Hollywood royalty then The Soda Fountain embodies everything that is fun and childish about Walt Disney World. It offers an old-fashioned ice cream parlor experience serving shakes, malts, cones and old fashioned soda.

And then there’s the Studio Store. Oh my. You’ll find items from the most current releases as well as hard to find and Hollywood themed general Disney merchandise.

Authentic and original artwork consumes the walls and if you know anything about Disney, then you have heard of the “Disney Vault.” They’ve recreated it high up on the walls of the store, with a gorgeous mural flowing across the walls depicting the movies in order!

If you need to complete your collection, they have a large selection of old, new and hard to find Disney Favorites.

The Soda Fountain is thick in nostalgia and epic Disney history. This is a must do experience if you’re ever strolling along Hollywood Boulevard – even if it’s just to get a cone to go at the sidewalk cone window. Don’t forget to have a seat and snap a pic with resident #HollywoodMickey right out front!

This content was originally posted on Surf and Sunshine as The El Capitan Theatre and Disney’s Soda Fountain Go Together Like PB&J #IronMan3Event. If you are reading this on another site then it has been stolen! Please let us know :)

Everyone knows my favorite places to vacation almost exclusively is on the beach. (remember the blog name? Surf and Sunshine…) Since we live in sunny so cal about 6 blocks from the beach, people sometimes think I’m a little greedy or wonder why I always want to go to places that are similar. Well, reason #1 is this.

Yeah. The water is THAT cold here. I won’t even go in. And reason #2 is, well, that it does remind me of home! I love going out and experiencing new cultures and environments, but it always also makes me appreciate and realize that I’m pretty darn lucky to live where I do. I love that I can leave a paradise like Bermuda, but still come home and smile to my own beautiful little piece of paradise.

Do you love to travel too? How would you like to not only win a family escape, but be able to choose which one you want to win? BOB Strollers is giving fans the opportunity to do that right now.

HOW IT WORKS
Beginning May 1, 2013, just visit the “Find Your ESCAPE” photo album on the BOB Facebook page and “vote” for the vacation package you would most like to win by “liking” the photo that corresponds with the vacation package. The vacation package that has received the most votes by May 31, 2013 will be offered as a giveaway to one grand prize winner in the BOB “Find Your ESCAPE” sweepstakes, beginning on June 3, 2013!

I, of course, voted for the Beach Getaway. Which vacation package would YOU select?

But WAIT. There’s more. The fine folks over at BOB would also like to give one of my lucky readers a mini-getaway at home by hosting a $100 Spa Finder Gift Card right here! Good luck :)

The Giveaway

1 lucky winner will win a $100 Spa Finder Gift Certificate.

How to Enter to Win

Please use this easy giveaway form below to record your entries – good luck!!

*NOTE* You must be on the blog to see the entry form above. If you are reading this in a newsletter or RSS feed, then please click here to go directly to the post so you can enter to win!

I have received a product or services in exchange for sharing this information with my readers. All opinions remain 100% my own. My full disclaimer can be found here.

This content was originally posted on Surf and Sunshine as Where Would You Like to Find Your Escape?. If you are reading this on another site then it has been stolen! Please let us know :)

On our first night staying on the Phoenix mountainside at the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort, we were spoiled during dinner at the Different Pointe of View restaurant. For more than 25 years, Different Pointe of View has been one of the hottest dining destinations in the Phoenix area. The amazing views from the terrace area 1,800 feet above the valley are just as impressive as the food prepared by Chef Anthony DeMuro. While the entrance and the bar/inside area of the restaurant is beautiful with incredible views,

I highly recommend you enjoy you dining experience outside!

Amazing food like the mushroom ravioli and the secret recipe lobster bisque, combined with feeling like you’re dining on top of the world, have earned the Different Pointe of View the prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award 23 yrs in a row!

The only way I can describe the food and the menu here is that I honestly wanted to try EVERY SINGLE ITEM on the menu. Since everyone felt the same, Chef indulged us and sent out so many samplings that I’m pretty sure I was stuffed even before my Halibut Cheeks arrived.

Everything I put into my mouth, I not only liked, but LOVED. You can tell that Chef pours his passion into the food and seriously, I’m positive you can not go wrong with anything this man makes. This is easily the best food I have ever eaten. EVER.

If you’re a Phoenix local, or you like to plan ahead for your vacations, make sure you look into their monthly special called the Insiders View Dinner. This exclusive treat happens once a month and is available for just 12 guests. The restaurant flies in a new wine maker each month and uses their wine as inspiration to create a special dinner. After a welcome reception, Chef will come to your table to create 4 courses paired with 4 wines for just $99! These dinners are always on Friday night and occur January thru May and Sept thru November. Just give them a call to reserve your spot!

After dining like queens, we gathered around the fire pit at The Terrace Room, on the second floor of the restaurant to relax and roast some “adult” marshmallows. *TIP* These are actually house made marshmallows infused with liquor – offered complimentary with any alcohol purchase on terrace any time!

Mixing a little fire and ice, I had a margarita Popsicle with my Grand Marnier flavored marshmallow. With a full tummy, a view of the Phoenix skyline, and my favorite girlfriends, the night was the perfect start to our Arizona adventure!

This content was originally posted on Surf and Sunshine as Delicious Eats at a Different Pointe of View. If you are reading this on another site then it has been stolen! Please let us know :)

Source: Lenses and Looking Glasses

When you plan your wedding, how much thought do you put into your wedding party photos? Do you have an idea of what you want in your photos, or do you trust your photographer to capture the personalities of the groomsmen and bridesmaids? I love looking at some of the fun and original wedding part photos on Pinterest, Facebook, and the internet.

I wonder if the bride was taking batting practice before or after her wedding, and is she wearing heels or cleats under her gown?

I had some fun at a friend’s wedding last year and took the following two photos with the groomsmen while the “real” photographer was doing family shots. I think these turned out great!

Marriage is often a ride, it goes up and down, and sometimes round and round like a carousel.

Source: True Photography

Beach weddings are usually full of photos on the beach, this party posed with a building on the pier, and the colors pop!

Source: True Photography

Groomsmen have usually been through a lot together. They’ve shared laughter, rides, and in this case, a very large drink! Almost all of the photos from this wedding are packed with fun poses, and great colors!

Source: True Photography

I love the look on the guy’s face on the right, he’s like, is the photographer serious?

Source: Wedding Photography

When a snow storm hits during the photo shoot, make the best of it like these groomsmen did. Cheers!

Source: So Sweet So Wild

I’m not sure how safe this was, but one of the most original bridal party photos I’ve come across.

Source: The Bridal Detective

Let’s reflect on today’s ceremony.

Source: Wedding Photography

You can’t buy love, but you can display it.

Source: Vancity

Are these groomsmen burying the past or helping the groom dig out of a hole?

Source: Ashley’s Bride Guide

Which bridal party photo is your favorite? Do you think its better to take the wedding party photos before or after the ceremony?

This content was originally posted on Surf and Sunshine as 12 Fun and Original Wedding Party Photos. If you are reading this on another site then it has been stolen! Please let us know :)