The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure at Legoland California

February 5, 2016 by

The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure at Legoland CA sign at entrance

Lights! Camera! Action!

Our friends from The LEGO® Movie and Legoland California invited us out to check out their new show. And you can only see it at Legoland California! Emmet, Wyldstyle, Unikitty, MetalBeard and Benny from “The LEGO® Movie™” are back in this all-new adventure at The LEGO® Show Place. Help them defeat the evil secret plot of the new villain, Risky Business!

The LEGO® Movie™ 4D A New Adventure reunites Emmet and friends in an all-new short story combining dazzling 3D computer animation with “4D,” real-world effects such as wind, water and fog.

In 2014, kids around the world embraced the adventures of Emmet, an ordinary, rules-following, perfectly average LEGO minifigure who is mistakenly identified as the key to saving the world in “The LEGO Movie™,” which went on to gross more than $400 million worldwide.

But what happened after the movie?

The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure at Legoland California opens February 6

Fans can find out starting Saturday, Feb. 6, now that “The LEGO Movie™ 4D A New Adventure” has officially opened at LEGOLAND California Resort.

Returning to voice their iconic characters are actors Elizabeth Banks (Wyldstyle), Nick Offerman (MetalBeard), Charlie Day (Benny) and Alison Brie (Unikitty). Actor, writer and comedian Patton Oswalt voices the scheming Risky Business, brother of movie villain President Business, a new character created exclusively for the attraction.

When asked how it felt to join a “family” of well-known characters, Patton responded, “It’s beyond flattering. It’s a clever, creative way of looking at, of all things, LEGO, and I was touched to be a part of it.” Patton added that since Risky Business is a character that fans of “The LEGO Movie” haven’t seen before, he approached his performance in hiding his character’s true intentions “with the wiles of a LEGO coyote.”

Set after the events of the movie, the 12 ½-minute story finds the gang entangled in an Evil Secret Plot involving a mysterious theme park inspired by their adventures in “The LEGO Movie,” one that requires them to call on the Master Builder skills of a surprise ally to save the day.

Watching The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure at Legoland California

“The LEGO Movie™ 4D A New Adventure” was directed by Rob Schrab, who is making his feature film directorial debut with “The LEGO Movie Sequel,” set to open May 18, 2018. When it came to designing the attraction, he said a strong story was critical to its success.

“We only spotlight them for a fraction of the amount of time,” he said, “so it’s important to get tothe fun as soon as possible. This is the first time Emmet, Wyldstyle and the gang meet since thefilm.”

Developed in collaboration with LEGOLAND owner Merlin Entertainments Group and Warner Bros. Consumer Products, the attraction was created by Los Angeles-based Pure Imagination Studios with input from Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the talented writer-directors who brought “The LEGO Movie” to hilarious life, along with producer Dan Lin.

The result is a delightfully clever blend of the same sly humor and breathtaking, built-with-LEGOvisuals that made the first-ever, full-length theatrical LEGO film a global hit among kids and adults alike.

For Offerman, the opportunity to slip back into MetalBeard’s shoes – er, bricks – was a welcome one.

“I have worked with Rob on ‘Childrens Hospital’ and ‘Parks and Recreation,’ so it was like a nice reunion of old pals from summer camp,” he said of making the attraction. “We just tried to make each other laugh with silly renderings of dead-serious pirate-y mayhem.”

“The LEGO® Movie™ 4D A New Adventure” opens on Feb. 6 at LEGOLAND California Resort in Carlsbad, Calif., following its debut in Florida on Jan. 28, and will soon be playing at all other LEGOLAND theme parks and LEGOLAND Discovery Centers worldwide in 2016.

 Who’s your favorite LEGO® Movie star? 

Planning a trip to Legoland CA soon? Check out our highlights:

For more Legoland CA fun, check out these great posts:
LEGOLAND California Holiday Snow Days
Legoland Heartlake City
5 Reasons Why Star Wars Lovers Should Visit Legoland California
Top 5 Things to Do at Legoland California When You’re 5

Filed Under: Events, San Diego, Travel, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , ,

Knott’s Berry Farm New Years Eve Celebration

December 14, 2015 by

Disclaimer: This post featuring Knott’s New Year’s Eve is brought to you by GigaSaavy

The countdown to the New Year is on at Knott’s Berry Farm! Knott’s is the place to ring in 2016 with a night full of special family-friendly experiences, including live musical acts, exclusive stage shows, and Merry Farm entertainment, culminating in a fantastic fireworks show.

We’ve been invited to head out and enjoy the celebration with our family and the kids couldn’t be more excited! As the final moments of 2015 countdown, the Knott’s Sky Cabin will dramatically rise over 200 ft. to the top of the “K” tower as special lighting effects countdown to midnight. When the cabin reaches the top at the stroke of midnight the “K” tower, the skies above Knott’s will light up with a spectacular fireworks show!

Knott’s Berry Farm is open from 10:00 am – 1:00 am and the New Year’s Eve Celebration is included with regular daytime admission. It’s the perfect way to ring in the new year with fun for the whole family! From an entertainment line up that’s not to be missed to a sky full of fireworks in celebration, this is a must attend event.

A 2016 Knott’s Season Pass is a great way to visit on New Year’s Eve. 2016 passes offer a year of family fun and includes one free visit in 2015, including the New Year’s event. And for a limited time, Season Passes can be purchased online for just 6 easy low payments of $13.50 each, the best price of the year.

Knott's New Year's Eve Fireworks

New Year’s Eve at Knott’s Berry Farm

There’s live entertainment everywhere you turn. Adding to the lineup of can’t miss entertainment are:

  • Jumpin’ Joz Band and Memories Swing Dancers invite guests to jump and jive to the sounds of Jumpin’ Joz. Join them on the dance floor and boogie into the New Year. Guests have the opportunity to learn a few moves from expert swing dancers.
  • THE REFLEXX is the best 80’s new wave cover band around who cover songs from bands such as Depeche Mode, Simple Minds, Tears for Fears, New Order, A-Ha, The Cure, Duran Duran, Flock of Seagulls, Devo, and more.
  • DJ Howly’s eclectic mix of high energy music will transform Calico Square in the place to celebrate the new year and offers a great view of the Midnight Fireworks Spectacular
  • Family-friendly comedian, Taylor Hughes, brings his hilarious comedy, magic and fun audience interaction to Boardwalk Ballroom
  • Midnight Fireworks Spectacular – Ring in the New Year with a bang. Look to the western skies for an aerial fireworks display that will amaze. And don’t miss the spectacular countdown to midnight on the Sky Cabin tower.

A New Year’s Eve celebration is not complete without a delicious meal, and Knott’s has just what you need. The New Year’s Eve buffet in Spurs Restaurant will be served from 4pm-9pm; prices are $34.99+tax for adults and $18.99+ tax for kids (3-11).

Where will you be celebrating New Year’s Eve with the kids?

Filed Under: Holidays, New Years, Travel, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , ,

LEGOLAND California Holiday Snow Days Are Here

December 2, 2015 by

Legoland California Holiday Snow Days 2015

This past Monday our family was invited to head out to LEGOLAND California and enjoy their Holiday Snow Days. Not only did we get to enjoy some fun in the snow, but there are so many fun seasonal things to do at LEGOLAND right now.

As soon as we walked into the park we were greeted with smiles and cheer. I headed over to grab a coffee before we made our way through the park to check out all of the fun celebrations happening. The winter fun runs until January 3rd 2016 and includes festive treats, holiday entertainment, cheerful decorations, family fun activities and nightly fireworks from December 26th through December 31st, 2015. 

Legoland CA Holiday Snow Days Legoland CA Holiday Snow Days - LEGO tree

The Park’s Fun Town transforms into a winter wonderland with two snow play areas for families to throw snowballs at LEGO themed targets, do a little sledding, build snowmen using LEGO accessories, and join in the Holiday Village Build at the LEGO Clubhouse. Plus guests can enjoy a holiday show from the LEGO Friends, Jingle Jammers, and the Holiday Character Dance Party featuring the LEGOLAND elves, Jingle Joe and Tinsel Toe.

Legoland CA Holiday Snow Days - playing in the snow Legoland CA Holiday Snow Days - eating snow

That’s not it! 

SEA LIFE Aquarium is getting in on the fun with a holiday-themed Daily Dive Show, crafting events and “green” holiday tips. LEGOLAND Hotel is also decking the halls with Holiday decor and themed LEGO building contests. Holiday Snow Days continues as LEGOLAND celebrates the New Year with San Diego’s biggest Kids’ New Year’s Eve Party on December 31st.

Legoland CA Holiday Snow Days - sledding

Looking for a fun way to celebrate the holidays? Grab the kids and head out to LEGOLAND for some snowy fun!

LEGOLAND California Resort is extending its Park hours for the winter holiday during these dates: November 27 & 28, December 5, 12, 19-23 and 26-31. LEGOLAND California Resort is also offering a gift for the holiday guests; from November 1st through December 24th 2015, select a date online to visit LEGOLAND California and SEA LIFE Aquarium between November 21st and January 3rd to purchase your one-day hopper ticket for only $90!

All Holiday Snow Days and Winter Nights activities located inside the Park are included in the price of a LEGOLAND California admission ticket.

Planning a trip to Legoland CA soon? Check out our highlights:

For more Legoland CA fun, check out these great posts:
The LEGO Movie 4D at Legoland CA
Legoland Heartlake City
5 Reasons Why Star Wars Lovers Should Visit Legoland California
Top 5 Things to Do at Legoland California When You’re 5

Filed Under: Events, San Diego, Travel, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , ,

Top 10 Essentials When Traveling with Dogs

September 29, 2015 by

Traveling with the family dog doesn’t have to be difficult. It’s just as easy as traveling with kids. Maybe even easier! We’re sharing our must have essentials when traveling with dogs including a few products from The Nutro™ Company as part of a sponsored series with Socialstars. #HonestToDog

Top 10 Essentials When Traveling with Dogs

I still remember the first day we brought Scout home from the pound. We had just met him the day before and as soon as I got to his cage he put his paw up as if saying hello. I played with him a bit through the fence while my husband Joseph (who was only my boyfriend at the time) went to go see if he was available. They said he was a coonhound beagle mix so we assumed we were getting a medium sized dog. But those paws. Those paws said something else! They were HUGE.

Joseph had to work that day and couldn’t get off early so I had the pleasure of heading down to pick him up after he got the snip snip. He was only 3 months old at the time and came out from behind the corner with a cone of shame around him. I didn’t even bring a collar or a leash. I was so new to this whole pet owner thing. He would be living at Joseph’s house since I lived with my dad and did not have room for another dog. But that didn’t stop me from loving on him and staying with him that first night. Staying up and sleeping on the couch to make sure he was ok and all his needs were met.

Needless to say, Scout was a very important part of my life. He was my first real big responsibility outside of chinchillas, rats, and hampsters. And he depended on me and Joseph to take care of him. We took him just about everywhere. Road trips, the beach, hiking, walks around the neighborhood, etc. Wherever we went, he went. And as we got married, added to our family – gained 3 kids, gained and lost a dog, and added many more pets after that, and as Scout got older, the trips have slowed down. But we still get out and about for a little fun. And over the years we’ve figured out the essentials when traveling with dogs.

Top 10 Essentials When Traveling with Dogs - walking the dog

Now depending on the size and personality of your dog, some of these may vary a bit. However the basics are all there! And sometimes it doesn’t matter if you’re going on a cross country trip with your pooch or simply taking a day trip to the beach. First above all, though, is to get your dog used to the car at a young(er) age. We’d take Scout on trips to the hardware store with us, to the pet store to grab food, and even to a few dog-friendly restaurants to not only get him socialized but to get him used to the car. One dog I had growing up, Simba, would get car sick every car ride and did NOT like to be in the car. I don’t think I’d attempt a long car ride with him if it could be avoided.

Top 10 Essentials When Traveling with Dogs - packing for your pooch

Top 10 Essentials When Traveling with Dogs

  1. Water – You always need to bring water with you when you’re traveling with Fido. Whether it’s a 20 minute drive to the park, a walk around the neighborhood, or a longer trip, water is essential to have with you when you have your pooch at your side.
  2. Poop Bags – Even if your dog is a once a day pooper in the same spot every day (don’t laugh… some dogs are very, er, regular) it’s good to have poop bags on hand (or even attached to their leash) at all times.
  3. Leashes – And that leads me to the next important essential, your dog’s leash. I would suggest keeping the leash attached to their collar even when in the car. It not only is convinient for getting out of the car, but should someone else need to go into your car, they can quickly secure your dog by grabbing the leash.
  4. Car Harness – Just like securing your children in a carseat, a car harness or crate is important to keep your dog safe in case of an accident or emergency. It can also act as a calm place for your dog to retreat to (the crate) if they’re feeling nervous on the trip when you reach your destination. Always keep your dog in the crate when the car is in motion OR harnessed.
  5. Towel/Bedding – if your pooch is sitting in the back seat, putting a towel down underneath them can act as some padding for them, protection for the seat, and an easy way to dry them off if you have an accident or are coming home from the beach. We’ve also found this to be an easy way to make them feel more comfortable if the car seat has an awkward angle. It also comes in handy in the back of the car as it acts like a makeshift bed.
  6. Food – Sometimes bringing food for your dog isn’t needed. But when you’re on a long road trip, or even a day trip to the beach, remembering your dog’s food is important. A food like NUTRO™ Rotations™ dog food can add a bit of variety to their diet and you can even pair it with what you’ve brought for the family to eat so your pooch can enjoy the same meal.  
  7. Food/Water Containers – Even though this is kind of a given, having a few food/water containers with you can help out in a pinch. We like the soft, collapsable containers that will fit in a purse or diaper bag. I keep one in my trunk at all times along with a small tupperware container that holds the collapsable dish, extra leash, poop bags, and a water bottle. Just in case.
  8. Toys – Not only are toys great for your destination to keep your dog happy and entertained, but a favorite toy, blanket, or chew toy can help calm your dog while you’re on your adventure. Something that reminds them of home and security. 
  9. Medications – Not all dogs are on medication however if your dog does need his daily meds, don’t forget to bring them along. I like to bring the whole bottle that includes the prescription information instead of a pill saver just in case. That way I have all of my dog’s info with me. You could also write out a list of medications to keep with you just as you would for yourself when traveling. 
  10. Treats – Keeping a little stash of treats you know your dog likes can be handy when you want to get their attention, have them respond to your commands in new situations, or simply praise them for being good on your trip.

STAINMASTER PetProtect running at the beach

This old boy has definitely left an impact on my life and I’m so happy to have his companionship. We might not be doing cross country trip anytime soon but our beach days are far from over.

Top 10 Essentials When Traveling with Dogs - Scout at 12 years old

Do you travel with your dog?

Find more great travel tips by liking The Nutro Company on Facebook or following on twitter.

®/™Trademarks of © The Nutro Company 2015

Filed Under: Life, Travel, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , ,

10 Vacation Tips With Kids

August 18, 2015 by

10 Vacation Tips with Kids

Recently I read on Facebook from a friend that vacations with kids are simply trips, not vacations. Because as a mom, or a parent, there’s no relaxing as one would expect on a vacation. And while I see where this friend is coming from, I don’t know if I buy it. Maybe that’s because the larger vacations we’ve taken with the kids usually end up being with one set of grandparents coming along as well (which I HIGHLY recommend for those who get along with their parents/in-laws). Or maybe it’s because I put myself into the vacation mentality and try to balance rest/relaxation with exploration.

I guess it all depends on the mindset of the parents, right? And the planning. As a family of 5, our next vacation is going to take a bit of planning. Luckily I’ve found some great tips for vacationing with the kids… and planning the vacations. So starting now means I’ll be ahead of the game when our next vacation gets closer, right? Because planning a vacation for a family of four seems a lot easier than planning for the five of us. And I have no idea why! 

Vacation Tips with Kids

1. 7 Tips for Surviving Family Vacations with Teens & Tweens | Shaken Together

2. Staying Sane While Traveling with Kids | Turning the Clock Back

3. Taking a Road Trip to Disney World with Kids | My Mommy World

4. 12 Tips to Traveling with Kids (Without Losing Your Mind) | That Bald Chick

5. How to Stay Happy When Traveling with Toddlers | Smarty Pants Mama

6. Baby Air Travel Essentials | Meet Kristy

7. Surviving Road Trips with Children | More Than A Mom of Three

8. How Do You Potty Train When On-The-Go? ~Sunshine and Sippy Cups

9. Your Ultimate Family Road Trip Resource Guide ~Carrie Elle

10. Tips for Traveling with Children on the Auto Train ~A TIPical Day

 

Need more help with planning your next vacation? Planning a road trip with the kids? You might find this article helpful!

Road Trip with Kids Survival Gear

Filed Under: Travel, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , ,

Why Legoland Heartlake City Isn’t Just For Girls

June 5, 2015 by

Why Legoland Heartlake City Isn't Just For Girls

When we told the kids that we were planning a trip to Legoland, after being invited to check out the grand opening of Heartlake City, my son proclaimed, “I don’t want to go! Heartlake City is for girls!”

Now we have always been one for gender equality and not pushing gender roles on our kids. My daughter plays with trucks, my son plays with our kitchen set, both enjoy imaginative play where they dress up and play pretend. They both also equally help my husband when he’s working on the cars, help me with dinner before my husband comes home from school, etc. But that’s another post.

We’ve never pushed one toy or another onto them however they’ve both naturally gravitated to gender stereotype toys when they play on their own. And that’s ok. Both love LEGOs. Blue, green, pink, purple, or yellow.

Legoland Heartlake City - heartlake stables

Legoland Heartlake City - Heartlake Stables LEGOs

The morning of the event I asked him again if he wanted to check out Heartlake City. Because a trip to go visit Heartlake City meant a trip to Legoland. He thought about it for all of a second and then exclaimed, “I want to go to Heartlake City! It’s not for girls!”

While he was at school, my daughters and I enjoyed Heartlake City on our own. We built horses and other LEGO creations in the Heartlake Stables, rode the carousel at Mia’s Riding Camp, and enjoyed a crepe at the City Park Creperie (side note: I highly suggest the nutella crepe!).

Legoland Heartlake City - mia's riding camp

Legoland Heartlake City - City Park Creperie

Once he got out of school, my husband picked him up and drove up to meet us at the park. My daughter was stoked to bring them both to Heartlake City to show them around and share what she had gotten to do all morning.

From watching my daughter’s favorite LEGO Friends of Heartlake City dance and sing on stage to splashing around at the splash pad, both my son and my daughter had a blast exploring LEGOLAND Heartlake City.

I’m fairly certain my son won’t complain about Heartlake City at Legoland California being “just for girls” again.

Legoland Heartlake City with siblings

Legoland Heartlake City splash pad

Legoland Heartlake City - friends forever stage

Why Legoland Heartlake City Isn’t Just For Girls

  1. LEGOs – Just like everywhere else in the park, the kids can get hands on and build in the Heartlake Stables. Sure, there are pink and purple LEGOs. But they’re amongst a sea of blues, greens, reds, and yellows.
  2. Rides – The kids both loved riding the carousel at Mia’s Riding Camp. Horses are for boys and girls last I checked.
  3. Splash Pad – Running through the splash pad is awesome. And it cools the kids down on a hot summers day.
  4. Crepes – Amongst other treats found in Heartlake City (you can also try Wok n’ Bowl for some delicious ramen), the nutelle crepe can speak for itself. Enough said.
  5. Family Friendly Fun – Just like everywhere else in the park, Heartlake City is filled with family friendly fun that everyone can enjoy. Sure there’s lots of pink and purple. I don’t see why pink and purple can’t be in other areas of the park too.

My daughter can’t stop talking about the fun she had with me on our adventure together. And my son wants to go back again and is already planning a return trip when he gets out of school. Because they’re kids. And LEGOLAND is fun for kids. Ok, it’s fun for adults too…

And next time? We’re tackling the LEGO CHIMA Water Park.

Legoland California San Diego

What are you looking forward to checking out at LEGOLAND California this summer?

Planning a trip to Legoland CA soon? Check out our highlights:

For more Legoland CA fun, check out these great posts:
The LEGO Movie 4D at Legoland CA
LEGOLAND California Holiday Snow Days
5 Reasons Why Star Wars Lovers Should Visit Legoland California
Top 5 Things to Do at Legoland California When You’re 5

Filed Under: Lego, San Diego, Travel, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

What’s New This Summer at Knotts Berry Farm

June 2, 2015 by

Screen Shot 2015-06-02 at 11.07.58 AM

Timber Mountain Log Ride

I have such amazing memories of the times my parents took me to amusement parks during the summer. The thrill of the rides, the indulgent good food, and the freedom to choose where we went and what we were doing next. My siblings and I were always up for an adventure and we knew that this was exactly what we would get as soon as we passed through the turnstiles at Knott’s Berry Farm.

Now with my own kids, I’m looking for that exact same experience this summer and I’ll definitely still find it at Knott’s. From the thrilling new rides, like Voyage to the Iron Reef,  to fun shows for the whole family, like Blockbuster Beagle!…on ice at the Charles M. Schulz Theatre, there is something for everyone this summer.

Voyage to the Iron Reef On-Ride 1

In just a few short weeks I’ll be taking the kids up for their first adventure of the summer. We’ll be kicking things off right with a trip to Knott’s Berry Farm to check out what’s new this summer and how we can make the most of our summer with the help of a few of our friends (hint: one of them is a beagle with a black nose and a cool red house).

Here are 13 reasons why you should visit Knott’s this summer:

The NEW Voyage to the Iron Reef – The new interactive 4-D attraction called Voyage to the Iron Reef, will take you on an adventure aboard submarine-inspired vehicles through enchanting underwater forests, disorienting ocean current tunnels, mysterious mechanical wreckage, and high definition 3D animation.

Blockbuster Beagle!…on ice (Charles M. Schulz Theatre) – Snoopy and his Peanuts buddies “go Hollywood” bringing Walk of Fame glamour, dazzling movie lot escapades and California excitement to a brand new ice show adventure. June 13 – August 23 No shows on Wednesdays

Vertical Impact & Vertical Impact Geared Up Show – Vertical Impact presents the ultimate blend of extreme stunts with high flying acrobats performing a one of a kind performance perfect for the entire family! June 13 – August 23 No shows on Mondays & Tuesdays

Charlie Brown’s Happy Campers (Camp Snoopy Theatre) – Join Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy and the world’s most popular beagle, Snoopy in a show that’s sure to make an outdoorsman out of anybody! Daily, June 14 through September 1

Big Band Swingin’ Sundays – Jump, Jive & Swing to the sounds of Orange County’s best local Big Bands. Sunday evenings, June14 – August 30

Boardwalk Dance Party (Boardwalk Circle Stage) – Dance ‘til you drop and wave your hands in the air until you just don’t care with DJ Howly, one of Orange County’s most requested “mixers & spinners”. Monday & Tuesday evenings, June 15 – August 25, plus September 7

Ghost Town Streetmosphere – Ghost Town is alive with townsfolk who will put you smack dab in the middle of the Wild West. As you mosey on through Ghost Town, say “Howdy” to returning favorites, Dusty Trail, who’s never without her six-shooter, Miss Ruby, the purtiest Saloon Gal in town, Miss Apple the School Teacher, and the rest of the Calico townsfolk. Daily June 13 – September 7

Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies (Birdcage Theatre) – Things get krazy when Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies perform their toe tappin’, knee-slappin’, side splittin’ country comedy show that has Knott’s audiences clamoring for more! Fridays through Mondays, June 13 – August 23 except 6/19 and 8/6 & 29.

 Salsa  Bands (Fiesta Plaza Stage) – Nothing says a party at the Fiesta Plaza stage better than the energy created by some of Orange County’s most popular salsa bands. Friday, Saturday & Sunday evenings, June 13 through August 23, Plus August 29, 30 and September 5, 6, & 7

The Ghost Town Miners (Spurs Stage) – For a “Yeehaw” of a good time you won’t want to miss the Ghost Town Miners sing and play some of the best bluegrass this side of the Rio Grande! Tuesday through Thursday, June 16 – August 20

The Marshal Purdy Show (Birdcage Theatre) – Come on in for some old fashioned, homespun fun that’s sure to tickle your fancy and bust your gut. Tuesday & Wednesday, June 17 – August 21

The Big Fat Steve Band (Boardwalk Circle Stage) – Back by popular demand, The Big Fat Steve Band-The Kings of Kool is a fun, exciting dance band with a swingin’ beat. Wednesday through Saturday, June 13 – August 29, plus September 5 & 6.

Calico Saloon Cancan Show (Calico Saloon) – What’s a Saloon without a show? Don’t miss the Calico Saloon Show for some good old’ fashioned bar room fun. We heard that the dancin’ girls even perform that new fandangled dance from Paree, France, the Cancan! You might even want to cool off with a tall cool bottle of the hard stuff…Sarsaparilla! Daily, June 13 – September 30, Plus September 5 – 7

What are you looking forward to at Knott’s?

Filed Under: Travel, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , ,

Must Have Essentials For Staying In A Hotel With A Baby

May 7, 2015 by

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Must Have Essentials For Staying In A Hotel With A Baby

A few weeks ago I headed to Seattle with my 2 month old for a conference and a few weeks before that we stayed in a hotel in Palm Springs for spring break. During both of these trips we stayed at a hotel and I picked up some great tips on staying in a hotel with a baby.

You really don’t have to pack everything and the kitchen sink when traveling with baby however you do need some essentials to make life easier. Things like diapers, wipes, etc can be purchased at your destination but other things are easier to bring along.

Must Have Essentials For Staying In A Hotel With A Baby

1. Portable Toys

When travelling you don’t need to bring the whole playroom but a few essential toys are a must. We like to stick with a soft ball – the o-ball rattle is our baby’s favorite, soft books or board books, and something that moves (like this caterpillar).

2. A Waterproof Pad

Since you won’t have a changing station at the hotel, a waterproof pad you can use as your changing station helps a lot with diaper changes. No need to worry about baby leaving a little mess on the hotel bed or chair. And you can clean up any mess on the mat with a baby wipe (those things clean up ANYTHING!). 

3. Bottle and Accessories

I’ve found that most times I travel, I am not travelling alone with baby. And that means that sometimes mama needs a night out. Travelling wiht a good bottle, like the Joovy Boob, and accessories like the new Nood nippes and a bottle brush with some dishwashing liquid is needed for bottle feeding. Since I am breastfeeding I also like to take along a manual pump instead of lugging around my electric pump. 

The best thing about the Nood is that it mimics the feel of the breast and helps achieve a perfect latch just like on the boob. That way the transition from boob to Nood is a smooth one. 

4. Medicine

One thing I almost forgot was our medicine cabinet. I kid, I didn’t bring the whole medicine cabinet. Just a few essentials including infant acetaminophen, saline spray (for runny noses), a nose bulb (you could also pack a Nose Frida), gripe water and some diaper rash cream. All of this fit into a sandwich size zip top bag easy for pulling out at the airport. 

5. Inflatable Tub

Now you may only be staying overnight at a hotel one night but if you’re staying any longer, sometimes an inflatable tub for baby makes bathtime a LOT easier! We have packed along our small inflatable tub before and the kids love it. We also pack along one of their own hooded towels for after bathtime. They’re a lot softer than the hotel’s towels and work as dual purpose for the pool and tub.

What are your hotel must-haves when traveling with baby?

 

Filed Under: Baby, Parenting, Travel, Uncategorized

5 Reasons Why Star Wars Lovers Should Visit Legoland California

March 9, 2015 by

5 Reasons Why Star Wars Lovers Should Visit Legoland California

We are a family of Star Wars lovers. Whether it’s watching the original trilogy, catching an episode of Clone Wars on Disney XD, or building LEGO® Star Wars™ sets, the Star Wars vibe is definitely found in our home.

So when we were asked to come attend the unveiling of the new Miniland Death Star Replica Exhibit at Legoland California, we couldn’t say no. We were already familiar with the awesomeness of the other interactive displays in Miniland from our trip last year for our son’s birthday celebration and couldn’t wait to experience these new scenes.

If you’re a Star Wars lover then you will not be disappointed. Visiting for Comic Con in a few months?? Head north for a day trip to Legoland before you go home! Here’s why… [Read more…]

Filed Under: Events, San Diego, Travel, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , ,

Road Trip with Kids Survival Tips

July 7, 2014 by

These road trip with kids survival tips featuring Capri Sun is part of a sponsored post for Socialstars. #CapriSunMomFactor

Road Trip with Kids Survival Tips #CapriSunMomFactor

A road trip with kids sound like good ideas when you’re planning it. The trip even feels like good ideas as you’re making your way to your destination. And when you finally get there – in our case it was 8 hours one day and 12 hours the next – you think, this isn’t that bad!

But then it’s time to head back home. And this is when road trips with kids get hard. I had to pull out all of my tricks for that last two days driving back from our trip and was so excited to finally be home.

Luckily this road trip was totally worth it for the whole family because we all got to meet the newest additions to our extended family; My sister’s new baby girl and my brother’s new twins. Plus the kids got to play with their cousins and had a blast doing so!  [Read more…]

Filed Under: Travel, Uncategorized Tagged With: , ,


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