Living Mi Vida Loca

¡La mayor aventura de los Muppets llega a casa!

2012-01-26T08:55:00.000-08:00

Una de las comedias familiares más queridas y con mejores críticas de 2011, "The Muppets" de Disney, protagonizada por Jason Segel, la nominada al Premio de la Academia Amy Adams y la pareja de celebridades favorita Kermit the Frog y Miss Piggy debuta el 20 de marzo en Blu-ray Combo Pack ™, DVD, Digital Download y formatos On-Demand. Una película que no puedes dejar de tener para que disfrute toda la familia, el lanzamiento para uso doméstico de "The Muppets" de Disney incluye el DVD y la banda de sonido en una presentación, y también otra presentación especial, un 'Wocka-Wocka Value Pack', que incluye la película en Blu-ray de alta definición, DVD y Digital Copy (tres discos), además de una tarjeta para descarga que le permite a los fans hacerse con todas las canciones de la popular banda de sonido de la película.

El Blu-ray Combo Pack de "The Muppets" de Disney, con su imagen inmaculada y sonido perfecto, viene con una gran cantidad de contenidos adicionales, incluyendo el hilarante "The Longest Blooper Reel Ever Made (In Muppet History - We Think)", con tomas falsas y bloopers. El gran lanzamiento también incluye la divertida pieza "A Little Screen Test on the Way to the Read Through", que sigue a Jason Segel, Kermit, The Great Gonzo, Fozzie Bear, Miss Piggy y a otros personajes mientras se preparan para su primer día de rodaje, además de muchas otras cosas divertidas.

Los divertidos contenidos adicionales en el Blu-ray de "The Muppets" de Disney incluyen algo nunca antes visto, "Disney Intermission", una hilarante nueva función que le permite a los espectadores apretar pausa en su control remoto y ver cómo los Muppets se apoderan de la pantalla y entretienen hasta que la película vuelva a ponerse en marcha. Además, el lanzamiento incluye "Explaining Evil: The Full Tex Richman Song", una versión extendida del rap del villano Tex Richman (Chris Cooper, ganador del Premio de la Academia) que cuenta la historia de por qué odia a los Muppets. También se incluyen comentarios con el guionista y protagonista Jason Segel, el director James Bobin y el guionista Nicholas Stoller.

Mantente al tanto de las últimas noticias e información sobre "The Muppets" de Disney. Ve emocionantes trailers, juegos, clips de video y más en www.Disney.com/Muppets. Haz click en "me gusta" en Facebook en www.Facebook.com/Muppets. Síguenlos en Twitter @MuppetsStudio.

The Biggest Muppet Adventure Ever Comes Home!

2012-01-26T08:49:00.000-08:00

One of the year's best-loved family comedies and among the best reviewed films of 2011, Disney's "The Muppets," starring Jason Segel, Academy Award-nominee Amy Adams, and favorite celebrity couple Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy -- debuts March 20 on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, Digital Download and On-Demand formats. A must-own movie the entire family can enjoy, Disney's "The Muppets" in-home release includes the DVD and digital soundtrack packaged together and also offered as the ultimate Muppets experience, a 'Wocka-Wocka Value Pack,' which contains the movie on Blu-ray high definition, DVD and Digital Copy (three discs), plus a download card which allows fans to own all the songs from the film's hugely popular soundtrack from Walt Disney Records.

Disney's "The Muppets" Blu-ray Combo Pack, with its flawless picture and pitch perfect sound, comes with a fantastic slate of bonus content including the laugh out loud "The Longest Blooper Reel Ever Made (In Muppet History--We Think)." The exciting release also includes the hilarious featurette "A Little Screen Test on the Way to the Read Through," which follows Jason Segel, Kermit, The Great Gonzo, Fozzie Bear, Miss Piggy and others as they get ready for the first day of production, and much more fun.

Additional fun-filled features on Disney's "The Muppets" Blu-ray include a groundbreaking industry first -- 'Disney Intermission,' a hilarious all-new feature that allows viewers to press Pause on their remote control and watch as the Muppets take over the screen and entertain until the movie resumes playing. The release also includes "Explaining Evil: The Full Tex Richman Song," an extended version of the rollicking rap song by villain Tex Richman (Academy Award® winner Chris Cooper) who provides the hilarious backstory of why he hates the Muppets. The extended version of the song is included on the digital soundtrack and features Disney Music Group Tenor, Nathan Pacheco. Audio commentaries with screenwriter and star Jason Segel, director James Bobin and screenwriter Nicholas Stoller are also included.

Stay connected with the latest news and information on Disney's "The Muppets." View exciting trailers, games, video clips and more at www.Disney.com/Muppets. Like them on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/Muppets and follow via Twitter @MuppetsStudio.

Paranormal Activity 3 is out on Blu-ray/DVD today!

2012-01-24T11:26:00.000-08:00

I'll take a scary movie over any other genre any day. There's just something about getting spooked that gets my blood pumping. This weekend, my mom was over for the night so we set up shop and watched Paranormal Activity 1 and 3. We finished Paranormal Activity 2 the following morning. Though I've watched all of them before, they were still just as creepy as though I had watched them for the first time. So if you're out and about today, make sure to grab your copy of Paranormal Activity 3 as it makes it out onto the shelves TODAY!

By the way, we watched Paranormal Activity 3 on Blu-ray with the Spanish audio on. It's a great way to practice your Spanish! Also, Paranormal Activity 1 and 2 are available for streaming via Netflix ($7.99/month)

PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 3 Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack
Arriving on January 24th, the PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 3 Blu-ray/DVD combo pack includes both the theatrical version of the film and an unrated version with footage not seen in theaters, as well as Lost Tapes that reveal more footage not seen in the film. In addition, all Blu-ray and DVD releases available for purchase will be enabled with UltraViolet, a new way to collect, access and enjoy movies. With UltraViolet, consumers can easily add movies to their digital collection in the cloud, and then stream or download them – safely and securely – to a variety of devices.

And, in a first, all three films in the franchise will be available for Digital Download prior to the Blu-ray/DVD debut. This unique experience, called Paranormal Activity: The Chronology, presents the films in chronological order as a seamless marathon.

The Blu-ray/DVD combo pack breakdown is as follows:
Blu-ray:

Original Theatrical Version of the Film
Unrated Version of the Film
Lost Tapes

DVD:

Unrated Version of the Film
Digital Copy of Unrated Version—Compatible with iTunes® and Windows Media

A trilogy DVD set will also be available on January 24th exclusively at Walmart, which includes the theatrical and unrated versions of all three films plus all previously released bonus material.

In case you forgot what Paranormal Activity 3 was about, or if you haven't watched it, here's a trailer:

This is not a compensated post. I was given a copy of Paranormal Activity 3 to enjoy.

Burke Williams is offering some sweet deals for V-Day!

2012-01-21T10:00:00.000-08:00

Let Burke Williams take your love beyond the spa this Valentine’s Day.

Valentine's Day is a-coming and if you don't want to take any chances with your lover, then make sure to print out these Burke Williams deals, circle the deal you want, highlight it and then tape it to the mirror... while you're at it, tape a copy to the coffee maker and to the fridge too just-in-case.

Each of these Burke Williams exclusive romantic spa packages, “Romance,” “True Love,” and “For Two” offers a unique combination of soothing services and enhancements to create the perfect way to indulge this holiday. What better way to de-stress than with some alone time? Unless of course, you choose the "For Two" package in which case you'll be sharing your alone time with your significant other.

Burke Williams' Valentine’s Day packages are available beginning January 20 through February 14. Join them at a Burke Williams spa location near you or online at www.burkewilliamsspa.com for gift cards and reservations by location.

2012 Valentine’s Day Packages

Offered at Burke Williams Orange, West Hollywood, Torrance, Santa Monica, San Jose, Pasadena and Sherman Oaks

Romance: Just $139 (regular price $175)

Enjoy a Spa Pedicure with your choice of a 50-minute Pure Relaxation massage with enhancement -or- a 50-minute Spa Style Facial with peel.

True Love: Just $239 (regular price $300)

Indulge in a Spa Pedicure with a 50-minute Pure Relaxation massage with enhancement -and- a 50-minute Spa Style Facial with peel.

For Two: Just $269 (regular price $350)

Each of you will enjoy a luxurious 80-minute Pure Relaxation massage with enhancement or Spa Style Facial with peel.

Offered at Burke Williams, San Francisco

Romance: Just $149 (regular price $190)

Enjoy a Spa Pedicure with your choice of a 50-minute Pure Relaxation massage with enhancement -or- a 50-minute Spa Style Facial with peel.

True Love: Just $249 (regular price $330)

Indulge in a Spa Pedicure with a 50-minute Pure Relaxation massage with enhancement -and- a 50-minute Spa Style Facial with peel.

For Two: Just $289 (regular price $390)

Each of you will enjoy a luxurious 80-minute Pure Relaxation massage with enhancement or Spa Style Facial with peel.

Offered at Burke Williams, Mission Viejo

Romance: Just $159 (regular price $200)

Enjoy a Salt or Sugar Glo with your choice of a 50-minute Pure Relaxation massage with enhancement -or- a 50-minute Spa Style Facial with peel or brightener.

True Love: Just $249 (regular price $325)

Indulge in a Salt or Sugar Glo with a 50-minute Pure Relaxation massage with enhancement -and- a 50-minute Spa Style Facial with peel or brightener.

For Two: Just $269 (regular price $350)

Each of you will enjoy a luxurious 80-minute Pure Relaxation massage with enhancement or Spa Style Facial with peel or brightener.

About Burke Williams

For nearly 30 years Burke Williams spa has been committed to creating an environment of refinement that inspires and provides its guest with a luxurious sanctuary to unwind. With nine locations across Northern and Southern California, relaxation awaits with each of our European-inspired treatments including massage therapy, body wraps, facials, manicures, pedicures, baths, and an array of signature spa services.

This is not a sponsored post. I was given the opportunity to go into the lovely Burke Williams spa and try one of their services. I can't decide which one so I haven't gone yet.

Getting organized with products from Westminster Mall #ShopWestminster

2012-01-20T08:30:00.000-08:00

I have a few resolutions, but #1 on my list is getting organized. I started on this resolution the week before January 1st because in this vida loca of mine, getting organized is the only way to stay sane.

I used to be a pretty organized person before the kids came along. Now, I have to make a conscious effort to stay neat, tidy and have everything in its place. When the good folks from Simon Malls approached me about doing a post on organization - well, let's just say I was all over it because just a few weeks into the new year and I'm already running on fumes.

So I took a little trip to Westminster Mall and walked around for hours (literally) before finally settling on a few products that have made a big difference in my home and my life.

Following are a few pictures of what I've been doing around the house with these products.

The Refrigerator

Products: Food storage organizers purchased at Babies 'R Us (under $11).

We have a big fridge. Food is easily lost in there, which usually ends up costing us money because we end up throwing away so much of it. I went the extra mile here and after organizing the foods into categories (beverages, coffees, baby food, spreads, condiments, "meats", cheese and yogurts, eggs, toppings, leftovers), I labeled them using my Dymo label maker. This ensures that I consistently take the time to put food away where it belongs and allows for the Hubster to find food easily too.

Products: Triple Set - Chopsticks, Fork, Spoon ($2.99) and 60ml Hello Kitty container ($2.69)

Now that the baby is at the 7 month mark I'm ready to start distancing myself from my JJ Cole Swag diaper bag (which I completely adore but can get pretty heavy). However, there are two things that absolutely need to go with me wherever I go - besides my phone and diapers that is - and that's the hand sanitizer and the baby's feeding utensils. I purchased these two items at Tokyo Japanese Lifestyle (my new favorite store at Westminster Mall).

I tackled my disastrous cabinets with a vengeance and organized it as best I could given the limited amount of space. I honestly wish I had taken before pictures because I can assure you - it was a complete mess.

I decided to use materials that I had in our home to help with this pantry by cutting up cereal boxes and using them to organize mixes and all those spices that come in those cello bags.

Top shelf - baking products

Middle shelf - treats and hot beverage mixes
Lower shelf - oils and spices
Door - spice organizer via school fundraiser

Top shelf - Crackers and Sterilite dry goods containers (16 cups) from Target ($5.99) for cereal
Middle shelf - Re Organize helper shelf ($3.99) from Target holds pasta and snacks. Bread and rice underneath. Soups and broths on the side.
Bottom shelf - mixes, pasta sauce, peanut butters, jars on 3 tier shelf ($.99) and vitamins

Every room in my home could do with some organizing... including my restroom. How happy was I when I found just the thing that would do this! This uber-cute Hello Kitty toilet paper cover was purchased at Tokyo Japanese Lifestyle and it has a place to stash an extra toilet paper roll. I am especially in love with this product because the Hubster now has zero reason for not replacing the roll.

Hello Kitty Toilet Paper Cover ($4.99) from Tokyo Japanese Lifestyle

When I purchased the toilet paper cover I noticed that it said, "For Sale in Japan Only". I couldn't figure out why it would say this until I got home... turns out you need a special type of toilet paper holder for the cover to be displayed as it was intended. It was way too cute to return so I just wrapped the band around the entire holder.

By the way, the light in the room makes everything look yellow, but it's actually a light beige.

Room Essentials 9-Pair Shoe Rack ($3.49) from Target

And finally, this shoe rack (which I originally purchased to go in the closet) now sits by our front door. Though I had thoughts of putting a large basket there for shoes, I find that this fits our needs much better because it keeps the shoes from getting dirty, squished and mistreated. I'm thinking of painting it black.

My organizational shopping trip also gave me a dry-erase board which is hung in our kitchen and lets us know at a glance our to-do list. I also purchased these little plastic boxes for my son's underwear and sock drawer. He loves to have things in their place and the boxes make it much easier to keep them separated.

This week we're working on my son's room and getting all of his toys organized while simultaneously creating more room and hacking an IKEA toddler bed and making it a trundle bed that will go underneath the baby's crib. Busy, busy, busy...

So while I'm on this organization trip, I invite you to come with me and we'll keep ourselves motivated to stay organized the entire year. I've started a couple of boards on Pinterest which I'm constantly adding ideas to. If you have any cheap, easy and effective organizing ideas, I would love to hear them!

I am a Simon Mall Correspondent. I received a gift card from Westminster Mall to facilitate my shopping. This post do not necessarily represent Simon Property Group's positions, strategies or opinions.

Angry Birds 4th Birthday Party - Part 4 of 4

2012-01-16T17:00:00.000-08:00

Decorations

My favorite part of the party was the Angry Birds birthday banner. I made it using my Cricut (though it could easily be done without it). I started by installing the Angry Birds font found here. Then I printed out the letters, glued them to ovals I cut and then strung them onto yarn. The huge Angry Birds on the end are stickers that I glued to black cardstock.

Seeing as how there are ZERO Angry Birds party supplies, I went out and made my own by purchasing solid-colored cups (at the 99 cent store) and adding Angry Birds stickers I purchased at the swap meet ($1 for 6 sheets). Easy-peasy.

I would have gone a little crazier decorating outside but it ended up being uber-windy (darn the Santa Ana winds)! The decorations that were up I ended up tearing down before the party ended because they were getting in everybody's faces.

I also added Angry Birds stickers to the solid-colored tablecloths.

Games

You can't have a party without games! We had three in which the prizes were Angry Birds gummies (purchased at Justice for a little over $3 each).

First up was "Hot Angry Birds" - played like hot potato only to the Angry Birds tune and with the red Angry Bird instead.

Next was the Angry Birds Toss Game. This one was fun because it also got the adults involved. We set it up at a table and then had the kids toss the small Angry Birds and see who got the highest score.

Lastly, we played Angry Birds via the Roku 2 on our television. It plays similar to playing on a Wii so it was easy enough for both kids and adults to play. Everyone took turns and the highest score won. I highly recommend getting the Roku 2... not just to play Angry Birds, but because it can save you tons on your cable bill because you can stream television shows, novelas, movies and music.

$5 for a two-year subscription to Parents magazine

2012-01-14T13:21:00.000-08:00

Eversave has a GREAT deal today - for only $5 you get a two-year subscription to Parents magazine! This is perfect timing because my subscription is up this month and I'll be using this deal to subscribe to Parents for the next two years.

This Eversave offer expires 11:59 PM on Jan 23, 2012.

Parents Magazine

Today's Save:$5 for a two-year subscription to Parents magazine

Please note: Save Rewards and promo codes are not valid on this deal - but new members get $2 when they sign up and $2 after they buy and share the deal, giving them $4 towards their next Eversave purchase!

OC Event - Canned Food Drive at Knott's Berry Farm

2012-01-11T13:57:00.000-08:00

Knott's Berry Farm is partnering up with Orange County Food Bank to help fight hunger in Southern California. Every guest who donates 2 or more cans at the park between January 2-31 will receive a Regular adult admission for the price of $27.99. This special offer saves $29 off the Regular admission price of $56.99!

Go here for more info.

Hooked on Correo de Inocentes

2012-01-11T11:00:00.000-08:00

Correo de Inocentes is the first novela I've watched in about twelve years and the only reason I'm watching it is because it's available via Hulu Plus under the Latino category. The entire novela (all 61 episodes) is on there!

I don't generally watch novelas because they take a real commitment. With no DVR, it means that I have to sit in front of the TV at a certain time, every day... yeah, right. Tell that to my two kids... Knowing that it won't happen any time soon I love that I can have this novela at my fingertips on my iPad, computer or via the Roku. I can have this secret obsession without feeling like I need to plan my life around it.

By the way, have you heard that there are many people who have learned Spanish by watching novelas? I can totally see it happening. I know my Spanish has been improving in the days that I have spent watching Correo de Inocentes (if you're into drug trafficking, this is the novela for you).

Find out more about Hulu Latino here.

Angry Birds 4th birthday party - part 3 of 4

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

The Piñata

Yes, the red Angry Birds piñata is as huge as it looks. It was more than half the size of our four year old and it took up half of the backseat. At only $19.99, this piñata was a steal. We filled it up with over ten pounds of candy and toys.

This piñata did double-duty as it also held our tent in place. It was uber-windy that day and were it not for this Angry Birds piñata, the tent would have flown away.

I will warn you though that the folks where I purchased this piñata make them very resilient. They're very tough to break making it perfect for parties with lots of kids.

If you're in the OC/LA area and are interested in purchasing a similar piñata, check out Gosa Toys in Santa Ana. They are friendly, offer many different piñatas and sell their candy and toys wholesale to the public.

FREE coffee tasting at Starbucks

2012-01-10T13:52:00.000-08:00

Come to Starbucks for a free coffee tasting and vote for the roast you love most. They'll even send you home with a little something as a thank you.

US Event - Thursday Jan. 12 - Saturday Jan. 14

Canada Event - Thursday Feb. 9 - Saturday Feb. 11

American Idol is coming back next Wednesday, January 18th. #AmericanIdol

2012-01-10T10:00:00.000-08:00

American Idol - in it's 11th season - begins with a two-night premiere on Wednesday, January 18 and Thursday, January 19. Auditions will continue with a special broadcast Sunday, January 22nd (10:00 PM ET/7:00 PM PT) following the NFC Championship Game on Fox.

American Idol features host Ryan Seacrest and returning judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler (woohoo!).

The show's judges - Jackson, Lopez and Tyler - traveled to Savannah, Aspen, Galveston, Pittsburgh, Portland, San Diego and St. Louis in search of contestants with the raw talent and potential to become the next AMERICAN IDOL. Auditions continue on Wednesday, Jan. 25 and Thursday, Jan. 26; Wednesday, Feb. 1 and Thursday, Feb. 2; and Wednesday, Feb. 8 on FOX.

My favorite part, "Hollywood Rounds", airs Thursday, Feb. 9; Wednesday, Feb. 15; and Thursday, Feb. 16.

On Wednesday, Feb. 22, those who make it through Hollywood must then take the "Performance Challenge," where they face the judges one last time before the top male and top female semifinalists are revealed on Thursday, Feb. 23.

Schedule

Hollywood Rounds Begin Thursday, February 9

Performance Challenge Airs Wednesday, February 22

Semifinalists Revealed Thursday, February 23

Semifinalists Perform Tuesday, February 28 and Wednesday, February 29

America's Vote Reveals Finalists Thursday, March 1

All AMERICAN IDOL episodes begin at 8/7c unless otherwise noted.

For more on all things American Idol

Become a fan of AMERICAN IDOL on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AmericanIdol. Follow the series on Twitter @AmericanIdol and join the discussion at #AmericanIdol. Also, follow host Ryan Seacrest at @RyanSeacrest, and follow the judges: @yo_randyjackson; @JLo; and @iamstevent.

Angry Birds 4th Birthday Party - part 2 of 4

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

The Goody Bags and Donut Tower

We opted to have Krispy Kreme doughnuts instead of a traditional cake mainly because donuts are a very special treat in our home and they are easy to serve. The Hubster stacked them and added Angry Birds figurines (purchased on Amazon for $10.50).

We topped off each doughnut with whipped cream (regular and chocolate) and ice cream toppings including caramel, strawberry and chocolate syrup. It was easy to serve each person and customize the desert to their liking.

The goody bags were fabulous and made by my mom. She made two bags of each main character and we filled them with bubbles, Angry Birds bracelets, Angry Birds pens, Angry Birds stickers, handmade Angry Birds book markers, party poppers and party snaps. I purchased all the goody bag items locally, but the party poppers and party snaps can also be purchased online.

The goody bags also helped the kids carry their piñata loot home (more on that tomorrow).

Angry Birds birthday party for our four-year old - part 1 of 4

2012-01-09T08:00:00.001-08:00

My four year old had a birthday party last month and it took everything I had to convince him to have an Angry Birds birthday party instead of a Plants vs. Zombies birthday party. My reasoning? There are ZERO PvZ products available. With a five month old in the home, I couldn't imagine the hours of work I would have had to put into a Plants vs. Zombies party. As it turned out, the Angry Birds party was a lot of work too... but it came out super cool!

In an effort to keep this post short and sweet, I'll post pictures with a brief description. Any questions can be added in the comments section and I will edit the post with answers. Enjoy!

The Food

Our family is vegetarian so it was VERY important that all the food available be vegetarian and also, foods that our birthday boy would eat.

The table indoors had snacks galore including: roasted seaweed, veggie sticks, white cheddar corn puffs, a veggie tray, chocolate covered marshmallows, fruit, candy cane cookies, Kroger's homemade chocolate chip cookies, eggnog flavored almonds and cut veggies with ranch dressing.

My ever-so-crafty mom made the cute centerpieces. We filled it with shred and stuck the chocolate-covered marshmallows inside.

The centerpieces were made by covering small fish bowls with tissue paper. They're still looking great one month later!

We purchased the Angry Birds poster at Toys R Us for $5.99. It now hangs in my son's bedroom above his bed.

Cut veggies with ranch dressing in mini cups

Covered in a yellow tablecloth, the table also has red feathers and the Angry Birds logo and characters on the dishes.

We served cheese pizza alongside these snacks and washed it down with soft drinks (for the adults), water and juice.

OC Event - FREE Baseball Clinic at the Great Park

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

The Orange County Great Park is more than just a place to ride a bike, go up on a balloon, buy groceries from their Farmers Market and attend fun parties. It's also a place to take classes. From kids to adults, they have classes that will enrich your life. Coming up is their Baseball Clinic on January 15th. It's a great opportunity for kids ages 7-12 and it also happens to be FREE!

Baseball Clinic
January 15, 2012, 10:00 am-3:30pm

The Orange County Great Park will host a FREE one day instructional baseball clinic for kids ages 7 to 12. Instructors will include local collegiate and high school coaches, collegiate and professional players, i9 Sports and local volunteers. This clinic is designed to teach the basic techniques and reinforce fundamentals such as hitting, fielding, and throwing as well as specialized skills like bunting, double plays, outfield/infield relays, strength and agility and base running.

Features:
Quality Baseball Instruction
Hitting & Defensive Drills
Throwing Mechanics
Arm Care
Base Running & Bunting drills
Friendly Games
Batting practice

Items to bring (Players/Participants):
Bat, Batting Gloves, Glove
Baseball Pants or Sport Style Shorts (No Pockets), Hat
Rubber Cleats or Sport Style Shows (Tennis, Running, or Cross Trainers)
Lunch/Snacks, Water

The Scorpion King 3: Battle for Redemption available on January 10th

2012-01-08T21:22:00.000-08:00

Available January 10, 2012

On January 17th, Universal Home Entertainment will proudly present “THE SCORPION KING 3: BATTLE FOR REDEMPTION”.

This is a husband/wife-friendly movie because you get all the action that the guys like, and then you get all the half-naked men action for the girls too. The blu-ray, DVD, digital copy combo pack will be available on January 10th.

SYNOPSIS

Since his triumphant rise to power in the original blockbuster The Scorpion King, Mathayus’ kingdom has fallen and he’s lost his queen to plague. Now an assassin for hire, he must defend a kingdom from an evil tyrant and his ghost warriors for the chance to regain the power and glory he once knew. Starring Ron Perlman (Hellboy) and Billy Zane (Titanic), and featuring 6-time WWE champion Dave Bautista and UFC star Kimbo Slice, The Scorpion King 3: Battle for Redemption takes The Mummy phenomenon to an all-new level of epic action and non-stop adventure!

CAST AND FILMMAKERS

Victor Webster, Ron Perlman, Billy Zane, Kimbo Slice, Bostin Christopher, Dave Bautista, Temeura Morrison, Temeura Morrison Temeura Morrison Selina Lo, Krystal Vee

Read more about The Scorpion King 3: Battle for Redemption here.

Going from "Mami" to "Mom"

2012-01-08T08:00:00.000-08:00

I know I was griping earlier about wanting the kids to grow up faster, but gee whiz! My four year old is slowly transitioning me from being his "Mami", to being his "Mom". And the Hubster's not being spared. He's just "Dad" now. Is this what happens when they watch "older-kids" cartoon like Phineas & Ferb? Next thing you know he'll be trying to call us by our first names.

Get your Jamba Juice coupons via Facebook

2012-01-07T18:00:00.000-08:00

"Like" Jamba Juice on Facebook and access these three GREAT coupons that makes for some super-affordable drinks.

Tangled Ever After - new clip available

2012-01-07T17:09:00.000-08:00

A newly released clip from the all-new short Tangled Ever After playing in front of Beauty and the Beast 3D is now available!

Tangled is one of my favorite Disney movies (mostly because of the butt-kicking girl) and I'm happy to see that they're sharing with us what happens after she chops off her hair and reunites with her parents.

OC Events - Pretend City hosts January Events #PretendCity

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

Pretend City is ringing in 2012 with a focus on YOU! This New Year, create a new you by making sure you have everything you need to keep your family perfectly in tune and on the right track. Start off the year by learning about the value of play and healthy child development, or pick up a new hobby that both you and your child can enjoy together! Pretend City has activities planned that can assist with everything you need for a new you!

January Activities at Pretend City

Hour of Parenting Power, Office Hours with Dr. Selena Emond- Thursday Jan 19th (3:30-5:30pm)

This month focus on your new year’s family resolution by talking with behavior and parenting expert Dr. Selena Emond! As you sit down during your one-on-one appointment, Dr. Selena will work with you to identify and assess any concerns you may have for your family. You will then have the opportunity to immediately apply and utilize the tips that Dr. Selena provides by playing with your child in Pretend City with her by your side to guide you.”

RSVP: http://pretendcity.org/education/classes; 1 family per time slot

Fee: Included with museum admission

Parent and Me Art Class – Wednesday, Jan 11^th (3:30-5:30pm)

Join Pretend City as they present a dual Parent and Me Art Workshop focusing on the pastel of Monet’s Boating at Argentevil (1872). Drawing by Design instructors will teach adults the skills needed to complete a professional level piece of finished art. Whether you are a novice or a more experienced artist, this class will be an enriching and fun experience for all levels. At the same time, the children will be in another area having their own two hour lesson in a positive and engaging class of their own. Combine an afternoon of learning and fun with your child and by the end of the class, you will want to frame your masterpieces side by side!

RSVP: Event Brite

Class Maximum- 15 Children; 24 grown-ups/ Minimum- 8 Children, 8 grown-ups

Fee: $65 Parent and Child Workshop ($40 per adult/$25 per child)

Way to Play Day: A Package of Learning! - Friday Jan 13^th (10am-3pm)

Prepare your child for playgroups, preschool and even kindergarten! Learn to understand your children’s developmental progress and successfully prepare them for the world.

•Developmental Check-ups from 10:00am-12:00 noon: Assess speech, motor, cognitive and social areas (first come, first served; limited spaces available)

•Story times, tips for learning at home, and a chance to spin the wheel for a take home prize!

RSVP: Not required

Fee: Check-ups and activities are included with museum admission

*Available to Orange County residents only

2-for-1 admission on Way to Play Days: The second Friday of every month!

Life after kids - do you think about it? #EmptyNest

2012-01-04T11:00:00.000-08:00

I have two kids (both boys)... a seven month old and a four year old. The seven month old has a hard time sleeping longer than two-hours at a time at night, doesn't nap during the day, eats like there's no tomorrow and is generally a good baby. The four year old is addicted to electronics, loves Fisher-Price toys, has a mind of his own and is also a good kid. I love being a stay-at-home mom (most of the time) and I agree that it is the hardest, most unrelenting, unpaid job... unless you count dirty diapers as payment in which case I'm filthy rich. But there are times when it just gets overwhelming and it's then that I think about life after kids.

I can't wait for those years when it'll just be the Hubster and I. I know I'll miss our kids being kids, but I can't stop thinking about sleeping in, staying up late, drinking regular coffee without worrying about the baby getting the caffeine in the breast milk, selling the minivan and getting a mini coupe, going out to eat in the middle of the night... there is so much that I miss about our old life. I thought about it so much that it made me feel guilty for wanting it so soon. I mean come on... the kids aren't even in school yet!

So one day the Hubster and I are in bed and I casually ask him if he ever thinks about life after kids and as it turned out, he does! Whew... Now we stay up at night sometimes and talk about what we'll do when it'll be just us two again. We have a mental countdown (17 years and 5 months to go) and a list of things that we want to do.

Sometimes though, I feel bad talking about being an empty nester. As though I don't enjoy my life, my kids or our family. Which, by the way, I do. Other times, thinking about the future is the only thing that gets me through the day. Am I alone in this? Tell me I'm not. Tell me that you do too. Tell me that you have travel plans, tell me that you have a list of things that you're planning on doing once the kids are grown and out of the house, tell me that it doesn't make me a bad Mama for sometimes wanting them to grow up faster just so I can have some time by myself and with the man I chose to live the rest of my life with. So tell me... am I alone in this?

LA Event - From Waste to Waves—Bring your Styrofoam to the Aquarium of the Pacific on January 14

2012-01-04T08:00:00.000-08:00

Hold on to your holiday Styrofoam, and bring it to the Aquarium of the Pacific on Jan. 14. This trash will be turned into surf boards through the Waste to Waves program.

I learned something new today... the the same type of polystyrene foam material used to package electronics is also used to make surfboards. Did you know that? I sure didn't. We're also big recyclers at home so we were happy to hear about The Aquarium of the Pacific is partnering with the newly launched nonprofit organization Sustainable Surf to turn Styrofoam waste into surfboards. Recycling the foam packaging into a surfboard eliminates 50 percent of the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing a surfboard! This new eco-friendly surfboard boasts the same performance and durability of a board made from virgin petrochemical materials. Not only does this program reduce the surfboard carbon footprint, but also it helps keep Styrofoam out of the ocean where it is frequently ingested by marine animals that mistake the tiny foam particles for food. Can you imagine those poor little animals? How horrible!

How You Can Help
The Aquarium will host a foam collection drive on January 14 to support Sustainable Surf’s Waste to Waves program. Through this program expanded polystyrene, also known as plastic No. 6 or Styrofoam, is recycled into eco-friendly surfboards. Everyone who turns in a piece of Styrofoam at the Aquarium will receive a 20 percent-off coupon in the Aquarium’s Pacific Collection gift store valid on January 14.

Members of the public are encouraged to save their foam packaging waste after the holidays and bring it to the Aquarium, where it will be collected and recycled into surfboards. The foam will be transported to Marko Foam in Irvine, California, to be recycled into new surfboard blanks.

Though I do not surf (it's on my bucket list), I'm pro-anything recycled and would love to hear from surfers who have used one of these eco-friendly surfboards.

Under the Sustainable Surf Waste to Waves campaign, people can also bring waste polystyrene foam to surf shops in California that have collection bins. Waste to Waves partner organizations include Sustainable Surf, SPY, Reef, Marko Foam, the Surfrider Foundation, and Waste Management. For a list of alternative drop-off locations, or for more information, visit wastetowaves.org.

p.s. Waste to Waves is holding a raffle for a FREE surfboard. Go here to enter.

Ruby's Diner - 30 Amazing Offers for 30 Amazing Years

2012-01-02T11:00:00.000-08:00

We LOVE Ruby's Diner. It's our son's favorite place to eat and because it's so affordable, we often end up going at least a couple of times a month. The simple white and red color scheme is great and it's vintage decor is right up my alley. They also have themes at all the different Ruby's. Our favorite is the vintage planes decor in Laguna Hills.

I received an email from them sharing their news about their 30th anniversary in 2012. To celebrate, they'll be offering 30 deals during the year and they're kicking off deals 1, 2 and 3 this week.

My favorite deal is the FREE breakfast entree. We usually order the Awesome Egg Sandwich (no meat) and with it's under $7 price tag, it can't be beat. You get this huge egg and cheese sandwich and a huge side of Ruby's potatoes. Delicioso!

Go here to print out your Ruby's calendar and here to print out the deals.

OC Event - Irvine, Say Aloha! to a FREE Cup of Coffee at Seattle’s Best Coffee on January 4

2012-01-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

Mittens aren’t the only way to warm up your hands this winter. On Wednesday, January 4, Seattle’s Best Coffee will warm the hands of Irvine residents who visit their local cafe with a FREE small (8 fl. oz) cup of brewed coffee.

Those ready to trade hats and coats for leis and flip-flops can also enter for a chance to win a trip to be whisked away to a tropical paradise. Seattle’s Best Coffee will be giving away a deliciously awesome 7-day trip for two to Hawaii – including airfare and hotel accommodations. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Details on how to enter and official rules will be available at participating cafe locations January 4-February 14.*

Cafes Participating in Free Coffee Day on Jan. 4

Seattle’s Best Coffee

14450 Culver Drive, Suite D

Irvine, CA

Store hours are 5:30 am – 9:30 pm.

*Abbreviated Hawaii Sweepstakes Rules:

Sweepstakes is open to all legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who are 18 years of age or older at time of entry. Void where prohibited. There are two ways to enter: 1. Online: During the Promotional Period, visit any participating Seattle’s Best Coffee café to receive your sweepstakes card and use your smart phone or other web-enabled device to scan the QR Code located on posters in stores. You will then be directed to the Sweepstakes entry page at www.alohawintersweeps.com. You can also go directly to the Sweepstakes entry URL from any other web-enabled device. Complete all the required information including code found on card obtained at the participating Seattle’s Best Coffee café and click submit. 2. By Mail: To enter without making a store visit, clearly hand print the following on a 3” x 5” piece of plain paper: your complete name, mailing address, daytime telephone number and email address. Mail in a #10 business size envelope via First Class mail to: Seattle’s Best Coffee Aloha Winter Sweepstakes Entry, P.O. Box 606, Lynbrook, NY 11563-0606. Mail-in entries must be postmarked by 2/14/12 and received by 2/21/12. The odds of winning the Prize depend on the total number of eligible entries received via all entry methods. Prizes: (1) Grand Prize: A trip for two (2) to Hawaii. Trip includes round trip coach airfare for two and standard hotel accommodations (double occupancy) for 6 nights/7 days. The approximate retail value is $5,000. Sweepstakes subject to complete official rules, which may be obtained by asking the store manager or by visiting www.alohawintersweeps.com. Sponsor: Seattle’s Best Coffee LLC, 2401 Utah Ave. South, Seattle, WA 98134. Sweepstakes Administrator: Marden-Kane, Inc., 1055 Franklin Avenue, Suite 300, Garden City, NY 11530.

iCaughtSanta.com - Review, Coupon Code and {GIVEAWAY}

2011-12-21T12:23:00.000-08:00

If you have zero Photoshop skills (like I do), then you'll want to jump all over this awesome new site - iCaughtSanta.com. Easy to use and if your kids are doubting the existence of Santa (like my 4 year old is), then this is all the proof they'll need.

How to use:

Take a picture of the background you want (the fireplace perhaps?) and upload to iCaughtSanta.com.
Choose your Santa, and adjust Santa's size and/or brightness. Background can also be adjusted if needed.
Add border (optional)
Click "Process Image" and your digital creation will be created! Download, email or print your photo, automatically, for quick pickup at a store near you. Plus you can share it instantly to more than 30 popular web sites.

Sample picture using iCaughtSanta.com

Santa poses available:

Cost
A single photo is only $9.99, or you can upgrade to a bundle (4 photos) for just $10.00 more - and you can redeem the photos on any CatchACharacter™ site. Gift Cards and eGift Certificates are $9.99 for the first and $4.99 for each additional gift.

Coupon Code

Use SANTA50 at checkout and get 50% off your entire order!

- GIVEAWAY -

The first six readers to leave a comment below will get a code for a FREE CatchACharacter picture - including Santa! Each unique code can be redeemed on any www.CatchACharacter.com website and they never expire. Simply copy and paste a code into the coupon field box AFTER you've completed your photo.

Mandatory Entry
Leave a comment with your name/email address in the form.

Additional entries
Additional entries are listed in the form. However, if you “Like” iCaught Santa Claus on Facebook and mention Living Mi Vida Loca in a wall post (e.g. @LivingMiVidaLoca sent me) you'll get an additional three entries. Doing this second entry doesn't take much time and allows us to get more giveaways in the future. Gracias!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
About iCaughtSanta.com
Imagine the look of wonder and surprise when a child receives a photo of Santa caught in the act in his or her very own home. iCaughtSanta.com is a unique website that helps visitors create those memorable keepsake photos.

In three simple steps anyone can upload a holiday photo, add Santa Claus and print it as proof… or share it via Facebook and Twitter. Last-minute shoppers can purchase Gift Cards and eGift Certificates for loved ones with children, making iCaughtSanta.com a great gift idea even if you don't have kids yourself.

This is not a paid post. I received a coupon code to facilitate my review. My thoughts and opinions were not compromised in any way.