You are here: Home / 2015 / December / Archives for 15th

Archives for December 15, 2015

Corner Bakery Cafe is the place to go this Holiday Season!

December 15, 2015 By Leave a Comment

IMG_0388   IMG_0404   IMG_0399

If you are looking for a great place to get a quick bite this holiday season, I recommend the Corner Bakery Cafe! I actually have never visited before but found out about them because they participate in a monthly beach clean up. My son and I participate in a beach clean up at Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach and the Corner Bakery Cafe gives out samples of their delicious mini chocolate chip cookies. These always taste really fresh! We decide to visit our local one in Redondo Beach.

My son and I had the opportunity to visit today for lunch and were quite impressed! By the way, my son can be quite particular and will no longer eat off a Kid’s Menu so eating out is not always the best option, so to speak. But, he gave the Corner Bakery Cafe a thumbs up!

IMG_0390    IMG_0392    IMG_0400

He loves Macaroni and Cheese but can be particular about it too! He tried the Mac & Three Cheese and gave it a 10 out of 10! That is saying a lot! Not sure what he liked best since he just said “it’s good!” Maybe, the bead crumbs…but it definitely was a hit! I was going to try one of the New Grilled Flats which are less than 330 calories. I mean..how good do these sound?!

·         Southwest Chicken with all-natural grilled chicken, zesty slaw, corn and tomato salsa, house-pickled jalapeños and avocado ranch dressing (280 calories)

·         Chicken Caesar with all-natural grilled chicken, romaine, bruschetta tomatoes, Parmesan cheese and Caesar dressing (330 calories)

·         Caprese with fresh mozzarella, bruschetta tomatoes, arugula and Parmesan cheese (310 calories)

·         BBQ Pork with pulled barbecue pork, tangy slaw, house-pickled red onions and avocado ranch dressing (320 calories)

But, something else caught my eye!

IMG_0394

An Original Grilled Panini! I tried the California Grille on whole wheat harvest. Okay, so it didn’t have 300 or even 320 calories but it was delicious! It has a mixture of grilled zucchini, marinated artichoke hearts, roasted tomatoes, and pesto with fresh spinach and provolone cheese. I was planning to eat half and take the other half home but it was so good that I ate the whole thing including a pickle and a bag of chips! And, I still had room for a delicious coffee and YES! They even had those free mini chocolate chip cookies that tasted like they just popped out of the oven!

I know my son and I will be going back to visit again soon! I think we may have to try breakfast next time!

Find a Corner Bakery Cafe near you! A great place to stop by this holiday season!

Self Disclosure: I received free coupons which discounted our lunch meal. No other compensation was received and all opinions expressed are my own.

 

 

Filed Under: Featured Services

Holiday flavors from Gaslamp Popcorn are a real Must-Try!

December 15, 2015 By Leave a Comment

GaslampPopcorn-HolidayFlavors-FlavoredPopcorn

I love Gaslamp Popcorn and their New Holiday Flavors are delicious! The holidays are quickly approaching and with them comes Gaslamp Popcorn’s exclusive holiday flavors! These include Pumpkin Pie Spice, Apple Pie, Holiday Cookie, and Peppermint Candy.  These flavors have been available since November 1 only at Ralphs!  I tried all the flavors and love them all! My favorite two are Peppermint Candy and Holiday Cookie! But, be warned! The Peppermint Candy is addicting!

Look for them at your local Ralphs this holiday season!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this post.

 

 

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

Personalized Ornaments from Hallmark are a must-have this Holiday season!

December 15, 2015 By 14 Comments

IMG_0385     IMG_0386

Looking for a beautiful and personalized ornament this Holiday season? I had the opportunity to create a Ceramic Oval Personalized Ornament on Hallmark.com. I was quite impressed with how easy it is to do and how beautiful it turned out! I just love this one and it looks wonderful on our tree!

You can purchase your own here.  Right now they are on sale for $19.99 (regularly $29.99) I love the quality and I know that this special ornament will be one we keep forever!

Would you like to win your own Hallmark personalized ornament? We have teamed up for a Giveaway! One winner will win their own ornament. To enter, leave a comment below telling us who would you put on your personalized ornament? A beloved pet? A child? Deadline to enter is December 18th, 2015 at noon PST so enter now!

Self Disclosure: I received a free product to facilitate this post and giveaway. No other compensation was received.

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized

The Top Books of this week!

December 15, 2015 By Leave a Comment

Here are the favorite books of this week!

Looking for a great series for ages 8+? The Aldo Zelnick series continues with Kerfuffle! This one will have your kids laughing out loud and actually wanting to read about Aldo and his friends! To find out more, visit http://www.aldozelnick.com/

Kerfuffle

New children’s book says there’s no place like home for the howl-idays!

9781496939395_COVER.indd

In “Granny Glitter’s Christmas Story,” artist and graphic designer Andree Siracusa (aka Granny Glitter) tells the true story of her dog Koko, a blind Chow Chow puppy she saved from euthanization at a pet store during a round of Christmas shopping for her other pets.

After his rescue, Koko adjusts to his new home he shares with Venus the Doberman, Twinkie the Pomeranian, Marker the parrot, and the neighbor’s cat, Scratch. After some tender loving care and some eye drops, Koko soon receives the best Christmas present of all — his eyesight.

Through her heart-warming story, Siracusa hopes to teach children and their parents the importance of giving all pets a chance, as well as emphasize the Christmas spirit of giving.

“We, as humans, can learn from the unconditional love we receive from animals,” Siracusa said. “It’s important that we give that unselfish love in return.”

Even though they cannot speak our language, or perhaps it is that we cannot speak in theirs, the true meaning of Christmas and unconditional love can be found within our pets.

Granny Glitter’s Christmas Story
By Andree Siracusa
ISBN: 978-1-4969-3939-5
Available in softcover and e-book
Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and AuthorHouse

About the author
Andree Siracusa is an artist and graphic designer in Florida. She has many pets, including dogs, birds and horses. She has published many other children’s books: “A Doberman’s Puppy Days,” “The Hole in the Fence,” “A Horse Named Charlie” and “The Egg Surprise.”

The following books would also make great gift ideas!

38577c25e5224cc6a8506c1b28e446bb

This one really is quite clever!

How Machines Work: Zoo Break! (ages 7-10)

This one is from DK, Caldecott-winner David Macaulay and uses pop-ups and illustrations to demonstrate the technology of six simple machines. Follow the hilarious antics of Sloth and Sengi as they try to break out of the zoo with the help of levers, pulleys, screws, inclined planes, wedges and wheels. Packed with engaging, hands-on activities, this book will gear kids up for scientific and engineering greatness. Released this past November.

bowls-of-happiness-cover-220x256

This is such a delightful story! Great for ages 4-8.

Created by internationally renowned artists Brian Tse and Alice Mak, this China Institute (with Tuttle Publishing) book teaches children about Chinese artwork and culture and their universal spirit of generosity, love, and respect for nature. The loveable illustrations are coupled with photographs of porcelain art found in the Palace Museum’s collection. Kids learn about how bowls are made and be able to draw their own Bowl of Happiness after reading the story.

did-you-have-fun-mr-emperor-cover-220x220

Engaging stories take kids through the average life of an emperor and learn about the real people who lived in the palace, including the prince who fought off a rebel invasion, the palace maids who lived in the Inner Court, the emperor who ruled twice, and the emperor who loved crickets. From China Institute with Tuttle Publishing. Ages 8+.

The following books are wonderful for young readers!

unnamed (1)unnamed (2)unnamed (3)unnamed (4)unnamed (5)

I love these these beautifully-illustrated seasonal titles from indie authors that are sure to delight children of all ages. Each of these delightful books was published via Amazon’s independent-publishing platforms – CreateSpace for print books and Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) for e-books – and all are perfectly-poised to become the next seasonal classics for generations of children and families to come. These imagination-stimulating stories and the endearing characters they introduce are great for lighting up the holiday season and bringing families everywhere even closer together:

“Captain No Beard and the Aurora Borealis”—A swashbuckling winter’s tale and the newest addition to the multi-award-winning Captain No Beard book series by Carole P. Roman, finds the daring pirate Captain No Beard and his loyal crew heaving anchor for adventure as they steer a course due north for the icy waters of the Arctic. A prolific children’s book writer, Carole’s work is inspired by the antics of her grandchildren, who she often features in the pages of her books.

 

  • “The Fox and the Snowman” – A beautiful story by author Angela Muse about a lone fox and his journey through a year of changing seasons. Along the way, the young fox discovers friendship and family in this colorful seasonal tale that’s perfect for giving and receiving at holiday time.

 

  • “The Deep and Snowy Wood” – A delightful picture book about a deer, a squirrel and a mole and the very special person who pays a brief visit to the deep and snowy wood. Penned by author Elwyn Tate, this playful rhyming title is sure to captivate children during the holiday season and all year-round.

 

 

  • “The 13 Dog Days of Christmas” – An amusing and engaging counting book for children written by Melanie Johnston and illustrated by Bob Reedy that inserts a variety of adorable dogs into the familiar 12 Days of Christmas rhyme. The giggle-inducing title helps kids with their counting skills, all with a charming holiday theme. A portion of proceeds from this book benefit Tony LaRussa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF).

Look for these books on Amazon.com!

The next one is a great one for both kids and adults!

unnamed

Life is Good, lifestyle brand spreading the power of optimism, from t-shirts, self-help book, mugs to comfy pj’s, the Holiday collection ($10-78) has something for the kids, mom, the office and even the grinch who could use some positivity in their life! Life is Good donates 10% of their net proceeds to kids in need-–that’s something to smile about. 

Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books to facilitate this holiday book post.

 

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Jasmine is Pet of the Week!

December 15, 2015 By Leave a Comment

Jasmine, Dec. 17 Pet of the Week

Do you want to give a lovely cat a warm, happy holiday season and have one for yourself? Then adopt Jasmine. This brown tabby was surrendered by an owner who, after 10 years, had no time for her. She looks and acts younger than her 13 years. Jasmine is a sweet girl and is good with kids, dogs and other cats. Meet her at the Companion Animal Village at 7700 East Spring St., (562) 570-PETS. Ask for ID#A562025.

 

(This rescue encouraged by the usual suspects.)

Courtesy of the Companion Animal Village.

Filed Under: Pet Corner

107th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade Bigger and Better Than Ever

December 15, 2015 By Leave a Comment

Boat Parade6 Credit_Blue Cotton PhotographysmAA

Now in its 107th year, the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade returns for five nights of festive fun starting Wednesday, Dec. 16. Drawing thousands of visitors annually, the parade is the longest-running lighted holiday boat parade in the nation and the largest harbor parade in California. Hosted by the Commodores Club of the Chamber of Commerce, the Christmas Boat Parade takes place nightly through Sunday, Dec. 20, 2015, featuring approximately 100 festive boats and the theme “Seas the Holidays.”

For the first time in its history, multiple nights of the parade will include Grand Marshal appearances in addition to fireworks and other festivities:

  • Wednesday, Dec. 16 – Arte Moreno: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim owner Arte Moreno has guided the Major League Baseball team to six American League West Division championships over the past 12 years. A leader both on and off the field, Moreno established the Angels Baseball Foundation in 2004 to invest in education, healthcare, arts and sciences and community-related youth programs throughout the region.
    • Fireworks will start this year’s event with a bang, lighting the sky over the Newport Beach Pier at approximately 6:15 p.m.
  • Thursday, Dec. 17 – Amy Rodriguez, Christen Press and Whitney Engen: U.S. Women’s National Soccer players Amy Rodriguez, Christen Press and Whitney Engen will kick off the second night of holiday fun on the harbor with a fan meet and greet at ExplorOcean (600 E. Bay Ave.) starting at 4:30 p.m.
    • Orange County native Amy Rodriguez has won two Olympic gold medals and has played in two World Cup games, while Christen Press is a World Cup champion who holds the title of all-time leading scorer for the Stanford University women’s soccer team. Defender Whitney Engen, also a native Southern Californian, was a highly decorated player on the University of North Carolina’s women’s soccer team and currently plays with the Boston Breakers.
  • Friday, Dec. 18 – “The Voice” Season 8 Contestants: Four alumni from the hit NBC singing show “The Voice” will bring their talents to Newport Harbor including: Brian Johnson, whose impressive vocals and range landed him a spot on the top 12 of the competition; Jacob Rummell, a singer-songwriter with powerful vocals reminiscent of Michael Jackson and Bruno Mars; Bay Brooks, a free-spirited singer with her own unique, soulful spin on country music; and Barry Minniefield, the soulful singer also known as “Hollywood’s Singing Chef” for his extraordinary talents in acting, singing and cooking.
  • Saturday, Dec. 19 – Tournament of Roses Queen and Court: For the second consecutive year, the Tournament of Roses Royal Court will dazzle onlookers before the official Rose Parade® on January 1, 2016. The Royal Court’s participation in the Christmas Boat Parade celebrates the extensive history of both beloved SoCal events. The 2016 Rose Queen® is Erika Karen Winter and the Royal Court® includes Donaly Marquez, Sarah Shaklan, Natalie Hernandez-Barber, Rachelle Liu, Regina Pullens and Bryce Bakewell.
  • Sunday, Dec. 20 – Fireworks Finale: A stunning fireworks show will conclude the five-day holiday celebration. Visitors are encouraged to secure a spot near the Balboa Pier to view the show, which starts at 9 p.m.

The parade will begin at Bay Island at 6:30 p.m. and end at the same site at approximately 9 p.m. each evening, completing its 14.7-mile route around Newport Harbor. The route offers multiple viewing spots around the harbor for residents and visitors to enjoy for free, as well as a number of restaurants around town offering beautiful harbor views.

Open December 5, Marina Park will be a brand new viewing area for this year’s parade. The 10.5-acre recreational center will provide ample space for parade-goers, with family-friendly activities planned there each night. A full route map with all viewing locations and corresponding times can be found online here.

With a wide variety of participating vessels, the festively-decorated yachts, dinghies and kayaks will vie for the top prize in categories including Best Animation/Special Effects, Best Humor/Originality, Best Music and, of course, Best Lights.

Serving as the backdrop for the parade is the annual “Ring of Lights” contest. A spectacle all its own, beautifully decorated bayside homes and businesses surrounding the harbor go all out with their own holiday spirit, featuring everything from rooftop animated scenes to dancing Christmas trees. With its own judged categories and prizes awarded, the “Ring of Lights” has become as celebrated as the boat parade itself.

Presenting sponsors of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Ring of Lights are Simple Green and Meguiar’s, and Community Sponsors are the City of Newport Beach and Visit Newport Beach, Inc., with marketing and promotional support from Newport Beach & Company. For more information about the 107th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, please visit www.christmasboatparade.com. 

About the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce

The Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce is a business organization of almost 800 members representing over 20,000 employees. The Chamber, with its five councils, committees, staff and valuable members, works with city officials, local businesses and the community at large to promote the local economy. More information can be found at www.newportbeach.com.

About the Commodores Club

The Commodores Club is a council comprised of actively involved members of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce providing leadership, organization and fundraising support on business, social and community special events that promote the overall mission of the Chamber.

About Newport Beach & Company
Founded in January 2013, Newport Beach & Co. is a non-profit organization established to serve as the official marketing agency for the city of Newport Beach. The agency brings together all of the marketing entities connected to the Newport Beach brand, and is designed to oversee separate business units that include Visit Newport Beach, Dine Newport Beach, Celebrate Newport Beach, Enterprise Newport Beach and Newport Beach TV. Additionally, Newport Beach & Co. includes the Newport Beach Foundation focused on creative charitable endeavors that support the business community. For more information, please visit www.visitnewportbeach.com.

Photo courtesy of Bleu Cotton Photography.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Frankincense Essential Oil by Simply Earth is a Must-Buy!

December 15, 2015 By Leave a Comment

584c5fe182d844fc8e4fc5e479d5d03d3bb21d62

I really like this Frankincense essential oil. I have to admit that I hadn’t heard of this one before trying it but I really like using it in the aroma diffuser that I have. It has a pleasant woody smell. I also heard that it is good for colds and I am planning to try it next time I have a cold. I am very pleased with this product and highly recommend.

More info:

Frankincense Essential Oil – 100% Pure – Non-Toxic – No Additives – Unfiltered and Undiluted with No Fillers.

-Botanical Name: Boswellia serrata | Aroma: Warm, spicy, and woody odor | Origin: India | Plant Part: Resin

-Packaged in the USA in 15ml amber glass bottles, 50% more than standard 10ml bottles. Euro dropper cap included.

-Simply Earth is a small, eco-friendly, purpose-driven, family company. We donate 13% of the profit from every product purchased to organizations that are rehabilitating trafficking victims because the average age of these beautiful woman is 13 years old.

You can purchase here.

Self Disclosure: I received a free product in exchange for an unbiased review.

Filed Under: Beauty and Fashion, Beauty and Fashion Corner