Archives for November 2016

Pearl Love & Philanthropy From Jewelry Designer Wendy Mignot

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I recently received a most beautiful “The Hope Freshwater Necklace”  to review! This was formerly known as  the “Pink Ta Ta Necklace” from Jewelry Designer Wendy Mignot. It is simply beautiful and the photo does not do it justice!

This necklace is available in the following lengths: 16”, 18” and 20”. I received the 18″ and I just love the color of the pearls!

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It is also quite simple, yet elegant! I highly recommend this beautiful necklace and many other items from Wendy Mignot!

Here is more information about Wendy Mignot:

Jewelry Designer Wendy Mignot’s artistic accomplishments are most visibly seen throughout her trademark Fine Pearls and Leather Jewelry collections, but her most meaningful accomplishments and personal fulfillment stems in her work as philanthropist and humanitarian.

 

Both Wendy and her husband Jean-Noel are known in their local community of Seaside, Florida as engaged corporate citizens and their involvement with various national organizations to raise awareness, funds and promote positivity for issues ranging from women’s health to domestic abuse is ongoing.

SEYMOUR PINK

Every October, the Wendy Mignot flagship store, La Vie Est Belle in Seaside, Florida and the brand’s corporate e-commerce site; wendymignot.com, work simultaneously to raise money in support of Seymour Pink, a national charitable organization founded by Wendy’s grade school teacher from her hometown of Seymour, Connecticut. Seymour Pink raises millions of dollars to support a cure for breast cancer and also provides scholarships, gift baskets and support to families whose lives have been affected by Breast Cancer.  During October Wendy Mignot donates ALL proceeds from the sale of her pink pearls to this important cause. (www.seymourpink.com)

 

THE NATIONAL CENTER FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME

The National Center for Victims of Crime became very close to the hearts of the Mignot family after Wendy’s sister Tamara experienced first hand a violent crime. Their mission is dedicated to helping victims of crime rebuild their lives. Wendy has designed a necklace called  “Shooting Stars” specifically to honor her sister and all victims of crime.

(http://victimsofcrime.org)

 

ANTI BULLYING CAMPAIGN/BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

In 2014 Wendy Mignot hosted her first Anti-Bullying event, “Life is Beautiful and So Are You” to garner awareness and promote the importance of positive lifestyles for our youth and the harmful effects of bullying.  With her own two children’s support Wendy took to the most powerful platform – Instagram to promote inspiring messages and education. With over 30K followers thus far, Mignot continues to use social media to inspire positivity and connect with new generations – bringing awareness of the effects of bullying as well as educating on suicide prevention. Collaborating with fashion designer Nicole Paloma, the duo created a “Life is Beautiful and So Are You” hand-sewn tank top to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of the Emerald Coast. Wendy also created a special abstract heart pearl necklace with proceeds to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of the Emerald Coast. To date, Wendy has donated over $12,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of the Emerald Coast.

 

Wendy and Jean-Noel are delighted to share their “pearl love” and continue to support charities and organizations that are close to heart.

Self Disclosure: I received a free sample to facilitate this post. Top photo was provided. Bottom photo: SoCal City Kids. I am personally a big an of Jewelry Designer Wendy Mignot and always love to feature her beautiful items.

 

STACKED is the place to visit for delicious food!

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Looking for a great place to go for lunch? STACKED is the place to go!

I recently had the opportunity to check this place out for lunch and I only have great things to say! The customer service is friendly, the food is delicious and this month they have two tasty pumpkin treats you do not want to miss!

What is really cool about STACKED is that you can place your order on an iPad! I know my son would love this so I plan to take him to lunch there soon!

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You also can add and change things to the food items. I think that everyone would just love to order their food this way. I think that this is the most unique thing about STACKED but it isn’t the only thing. I had heard that the hamburgers are really good but I didn’t know that they have such creative Mac & Cheese dishes! Personally, I’m not a big Mac & Cheese lover but when I saw that they had Stacked Mac in Cajun Shrimp…well, I just had to try it!

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This really is even better than it looks! I was impressed with how many shrimps were in the dish and it was so tasty! My Mother-in-law went to lunch with me and she tried a Stacked Mac with chicken…yum!

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This month there are two pumpkin treats that you do NOT want to miss! They have a Pumpkin Cheesecake Milkshake and it is really good! I honestly think that they should have it all year but it is only there until the end of the month!

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But, my ultimate favorite was the Pumpkin Bread Pudding! Oh my! I wish I knew how to make this one! You can also add whip cream, ice cream or a variety of other things! This is so good that it would be fine by itself but I added whip cream!

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The Pumpkin Bread Pudding alone is a reason to go to STACKED! But, I have to say that the customer service is amazing too! Our Waitress Diana was the best!

To find out more about STACKED, visit their website!  I highly recommend visiting this month!

Happy November!

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Self Disclosure: I received media comped meals to facilitate this post but no other compensation was received. Photo Credit: SoCal City Kids.

Stunningly Realistic Portrayal of Racism and Love in the 20th Century

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This film, which received a standing ovation at its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2016, tells the true story of Richard and Mildred Loving, an interracial couple who fought the Supreme Court to legalize interracial marriage. It captures intimate details of their private lives, which was recorded on film in the mid-‘60s. Most importantly, the story doesn’t dwell on the Civil Rights aspect but on the personal love story between these two people. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kamhai B. comments, “When I watched this movie, it changed my perspective or at least my way of thinking about love. After watching it, I thought about the life I live today and I realize that without the Lovings, the world would be a much different place.” Juanita S., KIDS FIRST! Adult juror adds, “I can relate to the story because I grew up in Virginia and I was about nine-years-old when Richard and Mildred began their struggle.  My mother, who I credit with wisdom and foresight, realized that in Virginia equality among the races was going to be a challenge. She knew that Virginia’s laws would challenge integration in all areas, particularly in schools. We moved from Norfolk, Virginia to Philadelphia, PA in 1959.” See their full reviews below.”

Loving

by Kamhai Beard, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

 

Before I get started with my review, let me tell you something. Love is the key to everything. If any of you have seen this film, you know the main idea of the story already. But if you haven’t, let me bring you up to speed. This is a sad yet romantic film. When I watched this movie, it changed my perspective or at least my way of thinking about love. After watching it, I thought about the life I live today and I realize that without the Lovings, the world would be a much different place.

This movie is about the true story of an interracial couple who fell in love. In the beginning of the movie, we see Mr. Loving (Joel Edgerton) building a new home for himself and his wife. Little did they know that the police were going to soon find out about their marriage and shortly after, they would end up in jail. Back in 1967, in the state of Virginia, interracial marriages were illegal. But love has no color so Mildred Loving (Ruth Negga) and Richard Loving decide to fight for what they believed in. When the police find out, they try to stop them. As you watch this movie, it makes you think about love, not differences. Now get this – after watching this movie some of the actors from the film came on stage and told us more about the movie. I learned that when Peggy, the Loving’s daughter first meet Joel Edgerton (who plays her dad in the film), she called him daddy and began to cry.

The filming crew truly captures the reality of the times in so many ways.  I recommend this film for ages 10 through 18 and older. Children 10 would not have learned about this subject yet, but when you’re 10 you already start learning about the racism in their country in social studies. I give this movie 5 out of 5 stars because it was better than my expectations. It has a good storyline and a good setting and, most importantly, the titles really catches the meaning of the film. This film opens in theaters November 4, 2016 so be sure to check it out.

LOVING 

Juanita Seon Leary, KIDS FIRST! Adult Juror

 

Loving, a film based on the true story of Richard and Mildred Loving written and directed by Jeff Nichols, captures what I have said many times – “love knows no color.” I can relate to the story because I grew up in Virginia and I was about nine-years-old when Richard and Mildred began their struggle.  My mother, who I credit with wisdom and foresight, realized that in Virginia equality among the races was going to be a challenge. She knew that Virginia’s laws would challenge integration in all areas, particularly in schools. We moved from Norfolk, Virginia to Philadelphia, PA in 1959.

Loving opens with a beautiful scene of Richard Loving (Joel Edgerton) and Mildred Loving (Ruth Negga) on an acre of land that Richard purchases and shares his plan to build a home for his love and future wife.  I found it very interesting that the community where Richard and Mildred lived at that time, Central Point, Virginia was more integrated than other towns in the South. The problem was the Commonwealth of Virginia, with its law against interracial marriage.

Loving vs. Virginia is a historical civil rights case that went all the way to the Supreme Court and changed not only the lives of Richard and Mildred Loving but also reaffirmed the people’s right to marry no matter their color.

Richard Loving and Mildred Loving, along with their supportive family members show determination and courage. In one scene, when the attorney Cohen asks Richard Loving what he wants to say to the Supreme Court, he replies “Tell them I love my wife.”

 

Loving is a love story that inspires. It truly captures the feelings and surroundings of that time.

I recommend it for ages 12 to 18 and adults will most likely enjoy this as well. I give it 5 out of 5 stars for a compelling story, well told. This film opens nationwide on November 4, 2016 so go see it and experience what loving is all about.

Credit: KIDS FIRST!

Fashionable Fall Finds from Lucky & Me!

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Have a little girl?  You must check out Lucky & Me! This Fall these fashionable undergarments are a must!  Lucky & Me makes soft underwear for girls (and boys too!) that stay in place so young children can be comfortable and not worry about underwear being tight, uncomfortable and not staying in place. Girls can choose from beautifully made bikinis or hipsters while boys options include boxer briefs and boxer shorts. Lucky & Me also makes an organic cotton line – the Grayson and Lily collections. For girls who like wearing dresses and also climbing monkey bars or doing cartwheels, the Jada Bike Shorts provide her with coverage. The tri-blend fabric is breathable with a beautiful lace trim around the thigh and a tagless back ensures she won’t itch.

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I received samples of the Underwear for girls and the Jada Bike Shorts for my niece who is 2 years old and she loves them! Her favorite are the Jada Bike Shorts! She would wear them every day if she could! They come in pretty colors and are very comfortable!

See all the Lucky & Me products at https://www.luckyandme.com.

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

EnviroKidz by Natures Path Launches “Ecokeepers” ~ a Free Nature Discovery Program for Schools to Help Get Kids Outside and Benefit From Lifelong Health and Social Benefits of Discovering the Wonders of Nature

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Parental fears and busy schedules are found to be leading contributors as to why parents say they struggle to get their kids outside to play and reduce the amount of time spent in front of a screen. This finding, announced today, is part of a nationwide survey on how kids play by EnviroKidz — North America’s largest organic kids’ breakfast and snack brand by Nature’s Path. To help kids capture the lifelong health and social benefits of outside play, EnviroKidz has launched a new outdoor nature discovery program called “ecokeepers™” (envirokidz.com/ecokeepers). Free to schools and camps, it complements science and physical education curriculum by blending tactical hands-on discovery with geocaching — a modern-day treasure hunt that uses GPS on smartphones to find hidden caches.

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Of the parents surveyed, 94% say they would like schools to help their kids get outside and discover nature. The free ecokeepers program delivers on this need and can be easily adapted into existing school and camp programs. Suitable for both urban and rural schools, ecokeepers can be used in nature trails, local parks, schoolyards and city neighborhoods. Adds Mahaffy, “When you look, kids can find nature anywhere.” Each ecokeepers program kit includes: 12-page, passport-sized explorer guides for kids to capture their observations, a geocache to customize and hide, parent resources plus EnviroKidz organic peanut-free bars to help support a healthy snack break while on their journey.

 

“Playing outside in nature is critically important for kids’ development. Research shows it improves everything from problem solving to cognitive ability to social relations,” says parenting expert Amy McCready, founder of Positive Parenting Solutions. “Between screen time and the busy schedules of both parents and kids, today’s children are spending less time outside and missing out on this fun and beneficial part of childhood.”

 

Looking into how kids play, the Nature’s Path survey, which polled 525 U.S. moms (ages 25-45) with children under the age of 13, revealed that:

  • Today, 81% moms indicated that their kids have adult supervision when they play outside compared to 37% of moms when they were kids
  • 54% of moms say their kids spend more time playing in front of a screen than playing outside, while 11% say their kids are not interested in playing outside and 11% said their kids would prefer to play on an electronic device
  • 35% of moms cite fear of letting kids play outside alone, 22% are too busy juggling other priorities and 15% say they do not have the time to supervise outdoor play
  • When they can, 58% of moms do try regularly get their kids outside to discover nature; however, 94% agree it’s important that schools also help kids to discover nature.

I received a free kit to sample and this is a great kit! It included:

1 x Official Medium Geocache with Logbook & Pencil

–         Ecokeepers program materials: 3 activity books for kids, 1 x parent’s guide, 1 info sheet

–         1 x GPS trackable ladybug

–         6 boxes of EnviroKidz Peanut Free Bars

–         7 x Free Product Vouchers ($35 value)

–         1 x EnviroKidz  Choco Chimps Lunchbox

EnviroKidz recently launched the industry’s first peanut-free, organic and gluten-free granola and crispy rice bars for kids. Available in four flavors — Chocolate, Chocolate Chip, Berry Blast and Strawberry — the bars are packed with gluten-free rolled oats or wholegrain brown rice to provide lasting energy for kids while they’re on the go and enjoying nature. EnviroKidz donates 1% of all product sales to help support animal conservation and education. To date, the company has donated over $2.6 million dollars to animal charities around the world.

My son’s favorite is the Chocolate Chip! I like that they are a healthier snack! I love the kit because it’s great for motivating kids to go outdoors!

 

For more information about ecokeepers, including how teachers and kids’ club coordinators can receive a free kit and parents can download a free activity guide, visit: http://www.envirokidz.com/ecokeepers.

 

Self Disclosure: I received a free kit to facilitate this post. Photos/info and video was provided.

Spreading Holiday Cheer At The Shops At Montebello

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As the holiday season approaches, children and families can look forward to Santa’s arrival and a festive schedule of events at The Shops at Montebello, that bring so much joy this time of year.

 

Children can visit Santa daily at The Shops at Montebello starting November 5 at 10 a.m. to capture treasured photos and share their holiday wishes until December 24. The center will also feature special holiday events and entertainment throughout November and December, including:

 

  • Holiday Photo Booth: On Friday, November 25 from 12 to 2 p.m. in Center Court, enjoy the festive photo booth experience with holiday and winter wonderland accessories.
  • Pet Photos with Santa: Furry friends have the opportunity to pose with Santa during the popular Pet Photo Night on Sunday, November 27 and Sunday, December 4 from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.
  • Christmas Giving at The Shops at Montebello: On Thursday, December 1 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in Center Court, 100 students from the Boys & Girls Club of East Los Angeles will receive gifts from Santa.
  • Friday Free Days: On Friday, December 2, December 9 and December 16, the marketing team at The Shops at Montebello will be spreading holiday cheer by handing out holiday gift bags filled with retailer gift cards, coupons and other surprises to shoppers at random. There will also be a DJ and social media dessert bar in Center Court from 4 to 6 p.m.
  • Gift Wrapping: Shoppers can get their holiday gifts and goodies wrapped on the Upper Level near the Macy’s Home entrance beginning Saturday, December 3 at 2 p.m. All net proceeds benefit Boys & Girls Club of East Los Angeles, Simon Youth Foundation and the Montebello-Commerce YMCA. A full gift wrapping schedule can be found at the center.
  • Holiday Photo Booth:On Saturday, December 3 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., enjoy a festive photo booth experience with holiday and winter wonderland accessories.
  • Kidgits Breakfast with Santa: On Saturday, December 3 from 9 to 10 a.m., children and families can enjoy a yummy breakfast with Santa to create special holiday memories. Reservations are required and can be made through the mall.
  • Countdown to Christmas Prize Giveaways: From Monday, December 19 to Friday, December 23, shoppers are invited to enter to win daily prize giveaways at Simon Guest Services. Winners do not need to be present to win. Prizes include:

o   Monday, December 19: $100 Crazy 8 Gift Card

o   Tuesday, December 20: Yves Saint Laurent Men’s Cologne Gift Set

o   Wednesday, December 21: $200 Express Gift Card

o   Thursday, December 22: Michael Kors Handbag

o   Friday, December 23: $300 Coach Gift Card

 

“The holiday shopping season brings a festive and bustling atmosphere to The Shops at Montebello,” said Marida Petitjean, director of marketing and business development at The Shops at Montebello. “We love the holiday cheer that lights up the center with Santa’s arrival and lasts throughout December with this year’s list of special events.”

 

This holiday season, Simon invites everyone to celebrate “The Joy of Giving.” Giving is contagious and this season Simon invites everyone to pass that spirit on and “Give Love,” “Give Sparkle,” “Give Warmth,” and “Give Fun.” Join The Shops at Montebello to experience the season’s good cheer with the best of holiday shopping and entertainment.

 

For ongoing updates and upcoming event information, follow The Shops at Montebello on FacebookTwitter or Instagram.

Credit: The Shops at Montebello.

New ‘SANTA HQ’ Is Coming To Los Cerritos Center!

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Santa is all about the experience and this year Los Cerritos Center has partnered with HGTV to present “Santa HQ.” Families are invited to experience the wonder of Santa’s workshop in the digital age. Exciting interactive technology transforms and customizes the experience.

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This engaging new version of a visit with Santa uses digital tools to offer an augmented reality environment and a thoroughly new, enhanced social media experience for families.  At Santa HQ, kids will be “scanned” as they arrive to determine if they’ve been “naughty or nice,” enter an observatory where they will use special tablets to view Santa’s magical world – the night sky or Santa’s elves at work, for instance – be able to take an “ELFIE” (a photo opp as a dancing elf) and much more.

Early Bird Photo packages are also available starting at $34.99 through December 8. As an added bonus, guests can start to make reservations with the man of the hour now by visitingwww.santa-hq.com.

Shoppers also are invited to bring in an unwrapped toy and participate in Help Through Holiday Giving.  Los Cerritos Center hopes to gather enough toys to beast last years ABC7 Spark-Of-Love Stuff-A-Bus Toy Drive record of nine commuter busses.  All Toys will be donated to Spark-Of-Love on December 2.

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WHAT ELSE:

Santa’s Welcome Party 

November 5, 10am to 11am

Join Mrs. Claus as we welcome Santa back to Los Cerritos Center and his headquarters.  Join us for a special holiday craft, hot coco, gift bags and your best chance to visit with Santa himself!

Help Through Holiday Giving – Spark of Love Toy Drive

November 5 – December 2

Join in a 20 Year Tradition of bringing holiday cheer to children in Los Angeles County.  In partnership with the Southern California Firefighters help us collect new and unwrapped toys to benefit kids in LA County. Bring new unwrapped toys or sports equipment Santa HQ Nov. 5 through Dec. 2.

Wishing for more jingle this holiday season?  One lucky shopper will win $10,000 cash as part of HGTV’s Spreading Holiday Cheer sweepstakes. Enter online (and find official rules and complete details) visiting www.santa-hq.com/sweeps or www.mallsweepstakes.com or enter in person at the Los Cerritos Center management office. (*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY.  Open to legal residents of the 50 United States and D.C., 18 years or older (or legal age of majority under applicable law, whichever is older).  Odds of winning depend on total number of entries received.  Limit one entry per person regardless of method of entry.  Begins 11/14/16. Ends 12/24/16.  Void where prohibited.  Sponsored by Macerich Management Company, 401 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 700, Santa Monica, California 90401.)

WHEN:

Santa HQ will be open 7 days a week from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. and is located in the Main Court next to Forever 21.

WHERE:

Santa will be available for photos and visits at his Headquarters presented by HGTV, located in the Forever 21 Court.  Reservations available, but not required!

Credit: Santa HQ.

ODYSSEO by CAVALIA

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Odysseo marries the equestrian arts, stage arts and high-tech theatrical effects at never-beforeseen levels. A veritable revolution in live performance, Odysseo comprises a list of superlatives: the world’s largest touring production and traveling big top, the biggest stage, the most beautiful visual effects, and the largest number of horses at liberty.  Odysseo features 65 horses of 11 different breeds of horses, riders, acrobats and musicians as together they embark on a soulful journey from the Mongolian steppes to Monument Valley, from the African savannah to Nordic glaciers, from the Sahara to Easter Island.

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 Odysseo by Cavalia

WHEN: Returns to Orange County for the 2016 holiday season: From November 16 to January 8

WHERE: Under the White Big Top in Orange County

at the junction of the I-405 & the SR-133 in Irvine

TICKETS: Available at www.cavalia.net and by calling 1-866-999-8111.

Tickets are priced from $29.50 to $254.50 + applicable taxes and fees.

Special pricing & packages available for groups, children (2-12), juniors (13-17) and seniors (65+).

INFO: www.cavalia.net

 

Credit: Cavalia.