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It’s a New Year! You need a New Calendar to start off the New Year!

January 2, 2017 By 11 Comments

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The New Year is here and you know that you need a New Calendar!

Krispy Kreme has a Calendar that you can color. Did you know that coloring can help with Stress? It seems to work for me when I find the time. This year that is one of my resolutions! Not to color but in general, spend more time on Me and letting go of unnecessary stress! So, it means more yoga, more walks and at least some ME time every week! So, I love the concept of a calendar that you can color!  This one has great monthly coupons for such delicious items such as a Free Coffee, a Free donut and even occasionally a free dozen of donuts! Yum! I know…eating healthier and exercising tops my list this year. So, sadly, that means less donuts but I can still treat myself and I think once a month I will want a yummy donut from Krispy Kreme!

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They look as good as they taste! We have teamed up for a New Year Giveaway! Two winners will win a Free Coupon for a free dozen of donuts. To enter, leave a comment below telling us your favorite kind of donut! I have to admit, my favorite is a Krispy Kreme Cream filled donut…yum!

Deadline to enter is January 12th, 2017 @ noon PST. Two winners will randomly be chosen via Random.org.

Self Disclosure: I received a Free Calendar and free coupons to facilitate this post. I was also hoping to feature the Holiday donuts but they were so popular that they were all sold out before Christmas Eve!

Filed Under: Uncategorized

OC PARKS January 2017 Calendar Of Events!

January 2, 2017 By Leave a Comment

January 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 – Guided Nature Hike

8 – 9:15 a.m.

Join the Park Ranger for a 1-mile nature hike in the beautiful Bell Canyon area of Caspers Wilderness Park.

Location: Caspers Wilderness Park. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

Website: www.ocparks.com/caspers

Cost: Free    

Parking: $5 per vehicle (day use free)

Contact: (949) 923-2210

Special Instructions: Hike lasts approximately one hour and is suitable for all ages. Meet at the Old Corral Day Use Area. Contact park office for hike updates.

 

January 5 – Fitness Hike at Ridge Park

8:30 – 11 a.m.

Raise your heart rate and your spirits on this moderate, fast-paced, 6.5-mile hike (700-ft. elevation gain) over very steep, uneven terrain with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.

Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road

Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Website: www.ocparks.com/lagunacoast

Cost: Free   

Parking: Free

Contact: (949) 497-8324.

Special Instructions: Ages 15 and up. Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/fitnesshike. Hike is not for beginners. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Ridge Park Staging Area (Newport Coast Drive to Ridge Park Rd. east to end; meet at the gate.)

 

January 6, 25 – Animal Art II Preschool Program  

10:15 – 11:15 a.m.

Join us for an hour of creativity and fun with an animal theme! Come ready to get a little messy! Class includes hands-on learning, fun crafts, and meeting zoo animals up close!

Location: OC Zoo. 1 Irvine Park Road Orange, CA 92869

Website: www.ocparks.com/zoo

Cost: $5 per child (includes one adult)

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: Marcy Crede-Booth at (714) 973-6846

Special Instructions: Registration is required! Call (714) 973-6846 to register. Ages 3-4 years old only. Parent must accompany child for duration of program.

 

January 7 – First Saturday of the Month Morning Hike To The Redwood Grove

8:30 – 10 a.m.

Join OC Parks’ trained staff on the first Saturday of the month for an easy 1.1-mile early morning interpretive hike to the park’s Coastal Redwood grove. You will use your 5 senses to engage with nature as you stroll to the Redwoods. You will also have an opportunity to learn about our native plants along the trail. The hike begins at 8:30 a.m. from the park’s Nature Center.

Location: Carbon Canyon Regional Park. 4442 Carbon Canyon Road
Brea, CA 92823

Website: www.ocparks.com/carbon

Cost: Free   

Parking: $5 per vehicle

Contact: (714) 973-3160

Special Instructions: All ages (small children may have to be carried). Participants should remember water, sunscreen, hat and hiking shoes. Meet at Nature Center located at east end of park. Registration: call (714) 973-3160 or email carboncanyon@ocparks.com. Rain will cancel hike.

 

January 7, 14, 21, 28 – Walk with a Naturalist   

9 – 10:30 a.m.

Join O’Neill Regional Park naturalists and learn about the animals and nature of Trabuco Canyon. This will be a light to moderate walk on mostly paved roads.

Location: O’Neill Regional Park. 30892 Trabuco Canyon Road
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678

Website: www.ocparks.com/oneill

Cost: Free

Parking: $5 per vehicle

Contact: (949) 923-2260

Special Instructions: All ages welcome. Meet at the Nature Center just inside the main entrance of O’Neill Regional Park. Event is conditional on weather.

 

January 7 – Family Hike  

3 – 5 p.m.

Come and enjoy an easy, 2.5-mile family hike over moderate but uneven terrain (45-ft. elevation gain). Starting at the James Dilley Preserve we will hike one of the most diverse areas of the park to Barbara’s Lake and back. Hike is led by Laguna Canyon Foundation naturalist volunteers.

Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Website: www.ocparks.com/lagunacoast

Cost: Free     

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: (949) 923-2235

Special Instructions: Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/familyhike Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at 73 toll road; make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right).

 

January 8 – Family Fun Hike

9 – 11 a.m.

When was the last time you took the family out to hike for pure enjoyment? On this 2-mile (150-ft elevation gain) excursion, we’ll focus on fun facts, nature themed games, and wildlife habits while answering questions for your little ones.

Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Website: www.ocparks.com/aliso

Cost: Free    

Parking: Free

Contact: (949) 923-2200

Special Instructions: Ages 7 and up. MEET AT CANYON VIEW STAGING AREA. Begin at Wood Canyon Trail off Canyon Vistas in Aliso Viejo. From Pacific Park/Canyon Vistas intersection, go Northwest on Canyon Vistas. Park legally (note street signs) on or near Canyon Vistas, preferably between Coastal Oak and Madia (22144 region of Canyon Vistas.)

 

January 10 – California Native Plants and Uses

8:30 – 11 a.m.

Learn about the many fascinating uses of California native plants during the pre-mission period, on this 2-mile hike (490-ft. elevation gain) over steep and uneven terrain. This hike will focus on plants used historically for tools, food and building materials.

Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road

Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Website: www.ocparks.com/lagunacoast

Cost: Free   

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: (949) 497-8324

Special Instructions: Ages 12 and up. Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/nativeplantsanduses Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at 73 toll road; make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right.)

 

January 11 – Yoga Hike

9 – 10:30 a.m.

Stretch your mind and body on this 2.4-mile hike with a yoga twist over steep and uneven terrain (100-ft. elevation gain) led by Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.

Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Website: www.ocparks.com/aliso

Cost: Free    

Parking: Free

Contact: (949) 497-8324

Special Instructions: Ages 12 and up. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Canyon View Staging Area: Begin at Wood Canyon Trail off Canyon Vistas in Aliso Viejo. From Pacific Park/Canyon Vistas intersection, go Northwest on Canyon Vistas. Park legally (note street signs) on or near Canyon Vistas, preferably between Coastal Oak and Madia (22100 region of Canyon Vistas). Wood Canyon Trail starts as a paved sidewalk between a neighborhood park and tree-lined easement, then becomes dirt trail into the canyon. Hike leaders and participants will meet at the end of the paved sidewalk, entering the canyon.

 

January 11 – Scales, Feathers & Fur Preschool Program  

10:15 – 11:15 a.m.

Come learn all about animals covered with scales, feathers, or fur! Class includes hands-on learning, fun crafts, and meeting zoo animals up close!

Location: OC Zoo. 1 Irvine Park Road Orange, CA 92869

Website: www.ocparks.com/zoo

Cost: $5 per child (includes one adult)

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: Marcy Crede-Booth at (714) 973-6846

Special Instructions: Registration is required! Call (714) 973-6846 to register. Ages 3-4 years old only. Parent must accompany child for duration of program.

 

January 13 – A Long Winter’s Night Hike

5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Come see Peters Canyon Regional Park in a completely different setting – in the dark! Park rangers will lead a starlit hike showcasing the natural wonders that can only be seen at night. The free family event will feature many fun activities, including hot cocoa and cookies and a hike through the wilderness area.

Location: Peters Canyon Regional Park. 8548 E. Canyon View Ave. Orange, CA 92869

Website: www.ocparks.com/peters

Cost: Free   

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: (714) 973-6611

Special Instructions: Space is limited. Please call or email to register: (714) 973-6611 or peterscanyon@ocparks.com. This is an outdoor event. Please dress warmly, wear good walking shoes and bring a flashlight. Sorry, no dogs allowed on the hike. For more information visit: www.ocparks.com/nighthike.

 

January 14, 28 – Nursery and Plant Care  

8 – 11 a.m.

Join us at our native plant nursery as we care for native plants from their seed stage to their mature, ready-to-be planted stage.  Volunteers may collect seeds, sow seeds in flats, bump plants up, plant at restoration sites, sterilize plant containers, and/or help maintain the facilities for the plants.  Gain hands-on experience with habitat restoration while working alongside other zany and interesting plant lovers!

Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Website: www.ocparks.com/lagunacoast

Cost: Free   

Parking: Free passes will be provided at the nursery

Contact: (949) 923-2235

Special Instructions: Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/plantpropagation. Wear closed-toed shoes, layered clothing and sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and bring water. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Willow Canyon Staging Area (west side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, just south of El Toro Road).  Park and walk up the gravel trail 100 yards to get to the small native plant nursery, just before the trailers.

 

January 14 – Car Wreck Fitness Hike

9 – 11:30 a.m.

Long distance, high elevation hike that takes us inside Dripping Cave, up steep Mathis Canyon Trail, then by the old car wreck!

Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Website: www.ocparks.com/aliso

Cost: Free    

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: (949) 923-2200

Special Instructions: Experienced hikers ages 15 and up who are capable of an 8-mile, 900-ft. elevation gain hike on steep and rocky terrain. Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/carwreck. Be prepared for hot weather, with at least two liters of water, snack, hiking footwear, sunscreen, hat/sunglasses, and necessary medications. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park Ranger Headquarters, 28373 Alicia Parkway (from southbound Aliso Creek Road, turn right on Alicia Parkway, first right on Awma Road, left into parking lot).

 

January 14 – Geology Hike

9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Join LCF volunteer naturalists on this 4-mile geology hike (600-ft. elevation gain) over steep and uneven terrain. Hike through the oak-filled woodland of Wood Canyon and continue to the park’s highest peak. We will pass by rock formations that tell of ancient floods, landslides and the building of a great shell-filled limestone reef.

Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Website: www.ocparks.com/aliso

Cost: Free    

Parking: Free

Contact: (949) 923-2200

Special Instructions: Ages 15 and up. Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/geologyhike. This hike is not for beginners!

Bring water, hiking shoes (hiking poles suggested), snacks, the field guides of your choice, and a sense of adventure! Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Canyon View Staging Area: Begin at Wood Canyon Trail off Canyon Vistas in Aliso Viejo. From Pacific Park/Canyon Vistas intersection, go Northwest on Canyon Vistas. Park legally (note street signs) on or near Canyon Vistas, preferably between Coastal Oak and Madia (22100 region of Canyon Vistas). Wood Canyon Trail starts as a paved sidewalk between a neighborhood park and tree-lined easement, then becomes dirt trail into the canyon. Hike leaders and participants will meet at the end of the paved sidewalk, entering the canyon.

 

January 16 – Reach for the Heights with Martin Luther King, Jr.  

10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Hike up Little Sycamore trail with your family and friends, elevated by the words of our brave, brilliant and compassionate American hero, Martin Luther King, Jr. Join us at 10:00 am for a group hike – or drop in between 10:30 am and 2:00 pm to hike on your own, reading inspirational quotes along the way to lift your spirits as you climb. From the ridge, enjoy the view. This moderate 2-mile hike is over uneven, steep and sometimes rocky terrain with a 400-ft. elevation gain. At the Nix Nature Center, create a paper doll to add to our wilderness park chain of love and peace.

Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road

Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Website: www.ocparks.com/lagunacoast

Cost: Free   

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: (949) 923-2235

Special Instructions: Recommended for hikers ages 9 and up. Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/mlk. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, approximately 3.5 miles south of I-5/405).

 

January 18 – Nose, Toes & Ears Preschool Program

10:15 – 11:15 a.m.

Come find out why some animals have big or small noses or ears, and what their toes look like! Class includes hands-on learning, fun crafts, and meeting zoo animals up close!

Location: OC Zoo. 1 Irvine Park Road Orange, CA 92869

Website: www.ocparks.com/zoo

Cost: $5 per child (includes one adult)

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: Marcy Crede-Booth at (714) 973-6846

Special Instructions: Registration is required! Call (714) 973-6846 to register. Ages 3-4 years old only. Parent must accompany child for duration of program.

 

January 19 – Fitness Hike at Canyon View

8:30 – 11 a.m.

Raise your heart rate and your spirits on this strenuous, moderately paced, 6-mile hike over steep and uneven terrain (400-ft elevation gain) with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.

Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Website: www.ocparks.com/aliso

Cost: Free    

Parking: Free

Contact: (949) 923-2200

Special Instructions: Ages 15 and up. Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/fitnesshike. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Canyon View Staging Area: Begin at Wood Canyon Trail off Canyon Vistas in Aliso Viejo. From Pacific Park/Canyon Vistas intersection, go Northwest on Canyon Vistas. Park legally (note street signs) on or near Canyon Vistas, preferably between Coastal Oak and Madia (22100 region of Canyon Vistas). Wood Canyon Trail starts as a paved sidewalk between a neighborhood park and tree-lined easement, then becomes dirt trail into the canyon. Hike leaders and participants will meet at the end of the paved sidewalk, entering the canyon.

 

January 20 – Tot Walk

9 – 11:30 a.m.

Join Ranger Zach along with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers and bring your young ones (infant to age three) to explore Aliso’s wild backyard. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden and to the creek. We will see bugs, plants, birds and explore! Ranger Zach may even host a game, play guitar or introduce a local resident to the children. Come join the fun!

Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Website: www.ocparks.com/aliso

Cost: Free    

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: (949) 923-2200

Special Instructions: Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/totwalk. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Canyon View Staging Area: Begin at Wood Canyon Trail off Canyon Vistas in Aliso Viejo. From Pacific Park/Canyon Vistas intersection, go Northwest on Canyon Vistas. Park legally (note street signs) on or near Canyon Vistas, preferably between Coastal Oak and Madia (22100 region of Canyon Vistas). Wood Canyon Trail starts as a paved sidewalk between a neighborhood park and tree-lined easement, then becomes dirt trail into the canyon. Hike leaders and participants will meet at the end of the paved sidewalk, entering the canyon.

 

 

January 21 – Keep It Wild Volunteer Day

8 – 11 a.m.

Join the Laguna Canyon Foundation and OC Parks for a morning of invigorating habitat restoration work in Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. Help us create a healthier habitat for the native plants and wildlife that call the canyon their home. Depending on the time of year volunteers will assist with various restoration activities including removal of non-native plants, seed collection and/or planting of native plants.

Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Website: www.ocparks.com/aliso

Cost: Free    

Parking: Free for Keep-It-Wild volunteers

Contact: (949) 923-2200

Special Instructions: Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/keepitwild. No experience is necessary and all tools will be provided. Please wear closed toe shoes, sun protection and bring water. Come out and join the team to help restore the wild lands we all enjoy! Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park Ranger Headquarters, 28373 Alicia Pkwy (from southbound Aliso Creek Road, turn right on Alicia Parkway, first right on Awma Road, then left into parking lot).

 

January 21 – Keep It Wild Volunteer Day

8 – 11 a.m.

Join the Laguna Canyon Foundation and OC Parks for a morning of invigorating habitat restoration work in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Help us create a healthier habitat for the native plants and wildlife that call the canyon their home. Depending on the time of year volunteers will assist with various restoration activities including removal of non-native plants, seed collection and/or planting of native plants.

Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Website: www.ocparks.com/lagunacoast

Cost: Free     

Parking: Free for Keep It Wild volunteers

Contact: (949) 923-2235

Special Instructions: Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/keepitwild. No experience is necessary and all tools will be provided. Please wear closed toe shoes, sun protection and bring water. Come out and join the team to help restore the wild lands we all enjoy! Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, approximately 3.5 miles south of I-5/405).

 

January 21 – Moonstruck Night Hike 

5:30 – 8 p.m.

Come see Carbon Canyon Regional Park in a completely different setting – in the dark! Our annual fall/winter night hikes are here again. Park Rangers will lead a hike to the Redwood Grove showcasing the natural wonders that can only be seen at night. The Moonstruck Night Hike will feature many fun activities, including a visit to the Nature Center, hot cocoa and cookies, a live animal presentation by the Nature of Wildworks, and a hike through the wilderness area.

Location: Carbon Canyon Regional Park. 4442 Carbon Canyon Road
Brea, CA 92823

Website: www.ocparks.com/carbon

Cost: Free   

Parking: Free

Contact: Maureen Beckman at (714) 973-3161

Special Instructions: Make sure you dress for cold weather and bring your flashlight! Space is limited. Please call to register: (714) 973-3160 or e-mail carboncanyon@ocparks.com. For more information please visit: www.ocparks.com/moonstruck.

 

January 22 – Bird Walk

8 – 10:30 a.m.

Spot local native and winter resident birds with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists on this 1.5 mile hike over primarily flat, but uneven terrain through one of the most diverse plant communities in the United States.

Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road

Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Website: www.ocparks.com/lagunacoast

Cost: Free   

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: (949) 923-2235

Special Instructions: Ages 12 and up. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Wear hiking or walking shoes and bring your binoculars (limited binoculars available on loan).  No experience necessary!  Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/birdwalk. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at 73 toll road; make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right.)

 

 

January 22 – Introduction to Mountain Biking

8:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Join LCF volunteer Mountain Bike Trail Assistants on this beautiful 8-mile bike ride (400-ft. elevation gain) on uneven terrain. Learn mountain biking basics and trail etiquette while enjoying the canyon views.

Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Website: www.ocparks.com/aliso

Cost: Free    

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: (949) 923-2200

Special Instructions: Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/introtomountainbiking. Please come prepared with a bike suitable for off-pavement riding, sturdy shoes, helmet, gloves, water and snack. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park Ranger Headquarters, 28373 Alicia Parkway (from southbound Aliso Creek Road, turn right on Alicia Parkway, first right on Awma Road, left into parking lot).

 

January 22 – Intermediate Mountain Biking

8:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Catch beautiful canyon views on this 10-mile ride over steep and uneven terrain (1,600-ft elevation gain) with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer Mountain Bike Trail Assistants.

Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Website: www.ocparks.com/aliso

Cost: Free    

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: (949) 923-2200

Special Instructions: Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/intermediate. This is for INTERMEDIATE riders with mountain biking experience. Appropriate mountain biking equipment required. Must have helmet, gloves, hydration; a snack is strongly suggested. Also, be prepared for varied weather out in the canyons. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park Ranger Headquarters, 28373 Alicia Parkway (from southbound Aliso Creek Road, turn right on Alicia Parkway, first right on Awma Road, left into parking lot).

 

January 22 – Tracking Animals at the Nix Nature Center

1 – 4 p.m.

Animals leave their tracks all over Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. At the Nix Nature Center, join Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers and park staff to learn to read the tracks you might find along the trails. Drop in and make your own tracking book, track cast and track measuring tool! Learn about the animals that live in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.

Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Website: www.ocparks.com/lagunacoast

Cost: Free

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: (949) 497-8324

Special Instructions: Ages 9 and up. Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/trackinganimals. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Road/SR-133, approximately 3.5 miles south of I-5/405).

 

January 26 – Fitness Hike at Dilley   

8:30 – 11 a.m.

Raise your heart rate and your spirits on this strenuous, fast-paced, 5.5-mile hike over steep and uneven terrain (900-ft. elevation gain) with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.

Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Website: www.ocparks.com/lagunacoast

Cost: Free

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: (949) 497-8324

Special Instructions: Ages 15 and up. Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/fitnesshike. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at 73 toll road; and make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right.)

 

January 27 – Meditating in Nature

3:30 – 5 p.m.

Relax in nature.  Enjoy walking meditation, breathing and energization exercises, and sitting meditation. Bring a blanket and a pillow.  No experience necessary. Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Website: www.ocparks.com/lagunacoast

Cost: Free

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: (949) 497-8324

Special Instructions: Ages 16 and up. Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/meditatinginnature. Bring a blanket, pillow, and clothing in layers in case the evening is cool. No experience necessary. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, approximately 3.5 miles south of I-5/405).

 

January 29 – Then and Now: An Interactive Discovery of Animals Living in OC’s Past and Present

1 – 3 p.m.

Come out to Clark Regional Park on the last Sunday of every month to learn about the animals that ruled the land 10,000 years ago and the animals living in Orange County today. Visit the Show and Share activity table for hands-on exhibits and discover the similarities and differences between past and present animals.

Location: Clark Regional Park. 8800 Rosecrans Ave. Buena Park, CA 90621

Website: www.ocparks.com/clark

Cost: Free     

Parking: $5 per vehicle

Contact: (714) 973-3170

Special Instructions: This is a free, family-friendly event. Meet at the interpretive center, rain or shine. Pack a lunch and stay for the day at the park following the program.

 

January 29 – Junior Ranger Walk at Dilley

1 – 4:30 p.m.

Earn your Junior Ranger badge as you learn about survival in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Hike 2.5 miles on uneven terrain to Barbara’s Lake and back (45-ft. elevation gain). Learn what birds are saying to each other – and search for evidence of animal life in the park. Find out how plants survive with so little water. You will receive a free Junior Ranger booklet to use along the trail.

Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Website: www.ocparks.com/lagunacoast

Cost: Free     

Parking: $3 per vehicle

Contact: (949) 923-2235

Special Instructions: Ages 8 and up. Registration is required, sign up online: www.eventbrite.com/juniorrangerwalk. Bring water and a snack. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at 73 toll road; and make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right).

Credit: OC Parks.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Luna, New Year’s Pet of the Week!

January 2, 2017 By Leave a Comment

luna-new-years-pet-of-the-week

Luna is dressed up in a warm little Princess Leia sweater. She’s a social little 2-year-old tan Chihuahua who’s lived with birds, kids and other dogs. In honor of a beloved actress and character, Luna says, “Help me, big-hearted human—you’re my only hope!” Meet Luna on the shelter side of the Companion Animal Village at 7700 East Spring St., (562) 570-PETS. Ask for ID#A554473.

 

(The usual suspects contributed to this rescue)

Happy New Year!

 

Credit: The Companion Animal Village.

Filed Under: Pet Corner

Beauty Must-Have for the New Year!

January 2, 2017 By Leave a Comment

100-lasting-finish_product

It’s a New Year!

Looking for beauty products to try in the New Year?  Foundation by Rimmel tops my list! My favorite is the Match Perfection foundation because it leaves my skin feeling hydrated, has long-lasting coverage and isn’t heavy. It even helps with dark circles! Now, how cool is that?!

You can find it at many CVS, Walmart and Target locations and is available in 14 different shades!

Self Disclosure: I received a free sample and photo was provided.

Filed Under: Beauty and Fashion, Beauty and Fashion Corner

Lion – A Captivating Story about Family and Perseverance

January 2, 2017 By Leave a Comment

lion-poster

This story is about a five-year-old Indian boy who gets lost on the streets of Calcutta, thousands of kilometers from home. He survives many challenges before being adopted and 25 years later, sets out to find his lost family. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Maria G. comments, “This film captures everything that I look for in a film.  It is filled with emotional, heart-touching scenes, a powerful message and wonderful cinematography.” See her full review below.

 

Lion

By Maria Guerrero, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

 

 

 

Lion is a beautifully produced film that truly captivated my heart and became one of my favorite movies. This film captures everything that I look for in a film.  It is filled with emotional, heart-touching scenes, a powerful message and wonderful cinematography. It is very unique and special, very different from what you ordinarily see at the cinema.

 

The story tells about 5-year-old, vulnerable Indian boy Saroo who gets lost on a train and travels thousands of miles across India away from his dear family. Saroo faces many hardships of life all by himself. Eventually he is taken in and adopted by a caring Australian couple. Years later Saroo feels a part of himself missing and is filled with murky memories of his past as a young child in India. Using Google Earth, Saroo is determined and passionate to find his lost family through the use of this tool.

 

The lovable and kind Saroo is played by the talented Dev Patel who also had the leading role in the Oscar winning film Slumdog Millionare. Dav Patel portrays Saroo’s passionate determination to be reunited with his family and country in the most believable way. Rooney Mara plays adult Saroo’s girlfriend who aids him in finding his family. Sue Brieerley, Saroo’s adopted mother is portrayed by Nicole Kidman in another stunning performance.

 

The film runs 120 minutes and I have many favorite scenes, but what touched me most is watching the passion that drives Saroo to find his family. Although he faces many hardships and issues, his love and passion for his family drive him to not quit but overcome every obstacle. Seeing his dedication to be reunited with his roots is inspiring.

 

The message of this film touched my heart, due to similar personal experience I share with Saroo. As someone who also left their motherland at age six to come to a country with better opportunities I, like Saroo, know how it feels to be reunited with your motherland and have only mercury memories from where you come from. So I relate very deeply to the message of not forgetting your origins and staying true to your background and roots. In addition, the film portrays the message of family and unity, which are dear to me as well.

 

I highly recommend this film for ages 13 to 18. I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and expect to see this film be nominated for an Oscar. It is playing in theaters now so, go check it out. You will be glad you did.

Credit: KIDS FIRST!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Media Reviews

La La Land Delivers A Musical Like Films from The Golden Age

January 2, 2017 By Leave a Comment

lala-poster

Mia, an aspiring actress, serves lattes to movie stars in between auditions and Sebastian, a jazz musician, scrapes by playing cocktail party gigs in dingy bars, but as success mounts they are faced with decisions that begin to fray the fragile fabric of their love affair, and the dreams they worked so hard to maintain in each other threaten to rip them apart.

La La Land

By Arjun Nair, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

 

La La Land is one of the most different and entertaining movies of recent times I have ever seen. The acting and the melodious musical numbers mesmerized me. The colorful setting and dresses also add to the cinematic flair.

The story is about two aspiring people with dreams of what they want to become, Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) and Mia (Emma Stone). Sebastian is an exceptional jazz pianist who wants to revive jazz with his own jazz club which he dreams to make and Mia dreams to be an exceptional actress. The two meet under random circumstances, somewhat rudely. Drawn together by their aspiration to do what they love, they fall for each other. However, their dreams conflict with their love for each other.

Ryan Gosling excellently expresses his love for jazz and Mia. He enacts the piano playing part exceptionally well and it really looks like he is a gifted jazz pianist. Emma Stone is a show stealer as Mia with her expressive eyes, aspirations and acting skills, especially during the scenes where her character auditions and her chemistry with Ryan Gosling is amazing. John Legend, as Keith, utilizes his short on-screen time well, portraying a man with a different taste in jazz which Sebastian doesn’t like, and he happens to be a good friend in need.

Damien Chazelle’s direction keeps the movie flowing from one beautiful musical number to the next. Mandy Moore’s exceptional choreography charms us, particularly in “A Lovely Night,” which was done in one-shot on a hilltop on Sunset, and includes amazing dancing from the main actors. My favorite scene is the scene in the planetarium with creative visuals such as Sebastian and Mia flying in the sky, dancing. Sebastian and Mia’s dresses in the movie are spectacular and some of the best I have seen in a movie. The film is also shot in cinemascope which gives it the vibe of many golden Hollywood musicals.

The movie has a positive message about Mia and Sebastian never giving up their dreams. Despite multiple failures, Mia still pursues her dreams about being an actress and the same with Sebastian about starting a jazz club. I give this movie 5, out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 10 to 18. The only inappropriate thing about the movie is some of the language, but that is infrequent. This is a movie which everyone will enjoy. This film opens in theaters on December 25, 2016, so go and check it out for a unique musical unlike any other.

 

Credit: KIDS FIRST!

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Media Reviews