Archives for May 2019

Coal–May 9 Pet of the Week!

Coal looks as if he belongs either on the steps of the New York Library or sitting next to ancient-Egyptian royalty. We’re not certain of his age, which adds to the mystery. But don’t let that austere countenance fool you—Coal is a snuggler, a purrer, and an occasional talker. If you’d like to take Coal to your palace, meet him on the shelter side of the Companion Animal Village at 7700 East Spring St., (562) 570-PETS. Ask for ID#A623970.

(This rescue encouraged by the usual suspects.)

Credit: Companion Animal Village.

A quick guide to I-601a Waver

If you had any experience with the US emigration office, you’ve probably heard of I-601a waver. It is a document that allows the family of the citizens or residents to request a waiver of the multi-year bars for unlawful presence before they leave the US instead of after. Perhaps you might’ve heard of its alternate name which is provisional waiver application.

The great thing about I-601a is that it simplifies a previously confusing process. Back in the day, you had to go through much more loopholes in order to get the document. The US government decided to make everything easier so that a person can now stay within the US territory while waiting for the results of the application. This is very important as the whole process can take years to end which would prevent an individual from seeing their family during the period.

Who can apply for I-601a?

The requirements are pretty straightforward:

  • You have to be currently in the US
  • Only those who are 17 or above can apply for it
  • Individual’s immigrant visa application is in process
  • You have an in-process of obtaining an immigrant visa based on a form I-130 petition by a family relative, a form I-140 petition by an employer or an I-360 petition on a qualifying basis.
  • You can’t get to the USA as your 180 days of the unlawful visit have ended
  • Person applying should be willing to leave the country in order to obtain a visa
  • Person applying has to show proof that the family will suffer without him or her
  • You still haven’t received an interview date by the Department of State before January 2013.

Keep in mind that the whole process is quite complex and may vary from case to case. Depending on your particular situation, it might take months and months until you get a response. There is no clear explanation as well when everything is finished; you simply have to trust the office to make the best decision.

Who can’t apply for I-601a?

Of course, there are also people who aren’t allowed to apply for a waiver. Here are some of the restrictions:

  • The person is younger than 17
  • Certain reasons not including criminal charges or health issues (you should consult your attorney to learn more about these potential issues)
  • The individual has a history of deportation or deportation-connected issues
  • The applicant is barred for life
  • The I-485 application is pending
  • Person applying doesn’t have proof that the family will suffer without him or her

The list of things that may potentially prevent you from getting the visa may extend beyond these points. It is best to consult immigration lawyers like Ruby Powers before proceeding so that you can get a better understanding of a particular situation.

No matter what, the whole asylum process should be coordinated by an asylum expert. Keep mind that there is a big difference between lawyers specialized in this particular question and those who are practicing other branches of the law. Make sure to get informed properly and only then, start the process.

Burke Williams Celebrates Moms with Luxurious Mother’s Day Gift Card Packages

Burke Williams offers gifts of love this Mother’s Day with three special Gift Card Packages. Celebrate mothers this season with the gift of a transformative Mother’s Day experience they will never forget. Each package includes a collection of Burke Williams signature treatments that are sure to make mothers feel valued and appreciated. Packages are available now at all ten spa locations. Standard packages are listed below, prices vary by location.

Honor her with “Give Me Life” for $150 (valued at $180), including a 50-minute Pure Relaxation Massage or 50-minute Spa Style Facial, Spa Pedicure, and a 3-Day Spa Pass (bonus value of $225).

Delight her with “Renew My Life” for $250 (valued at $300), including an 80-minute Burke Williams Signature Massage, Spa Manicure, Spa Pedicure, and a 3- Day Spa Pass (bonus value of $225).

Cherish her with “Nurture My Soul” for $350 (valued at $425), including a Regenerate: Anti-Aging Facial, Spa Manicure, Spa Pedicure, and a 3-Day Spa Pass (bonus value of $225).

WHEN:

April 18, 2019 – May 12, 2019

WHERE:

Gift Card Packages are available at all Burke Williams spas, prices vary by location. For information on Burke Williams and to find a spa near you visit www.BurkeWilliamsSpa.com or call 1-866-239-6635.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Self Disclosure: Some form of compensation may have been received to post. Information and images were provided.

Give the Royal Treatment with Opulent Mother’s Day and Father’s Day Dining Aboard the Queen Mary!


Royal Sunday Brunch entertains with champagne, live music, and decadent signature menus

In celebration of Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, the Queen Mary invites families and friends to set sail on a culinary escapade fit for royalty. With an impressive history for tradition and excellence, dine in decadence with signature menus offered in Sir Winston’s Restaurant & Lounge, Chelsea Chowder House & Bar or truly indulge with her majesty’s award-winning Royal Sunday Brunch.

DETAILS:

  • Queen Mary’s Mother’s Day Celebration, May 12: Mother’s Day aboard the Queen Mary will offer a culinary journey throughout the historic decks. Celebrate the Queen of your life with the Mother’s Day Royal Sunday Brunch or delight in prix-fixe menu offerings at Chelsea Chowder House & Bar or Sir Winston’s Restaurant & Lounge.
    • Mother’s Day Royal Sunday Brunch: Full steam ahead to the Grand Salon where guests will be laced with elegance as they indulge in over 50 globally inspired dishes.
  • Mother’s Day at Chelsea Chowder House & Bar, Prix-Fixe Menu: Grab your loved ones and delight the taste buds with a mouthwatering menu selection from Chelsea Chowder House & Bar. The four-course gourmet meal includes:
    • First Course: Choice of Vichyssoise Soup or Lobster Bisque
    • Second Course: Baby Kale and Rocket Arugula
    • Third Course: Choice of Aspen Ridge 16 oz. Porterhouse or Duet of Land and Sea or Simply Sea Risotto or Herb Crusted Sea Bass
    • Fourth Course: Choice of Chocolate Cream Pie or Lemon Meringue Tartelette
  • Mother’s Day at Sir Winston’s Restaurant & Lounge, Prix-Fixe Menu: Dine in the world-famous Sir Winston’s Restaurant & Lounge where guests can experience a stunning view and luxurious cuisine. The five-course gourmet meal includes:
    • First Course: Choice of Lobster Bisque or Corn and Poblano Chowder
    • Second Course: Choice of Sir Winston’s Caesar or Petite Greens and Watercress
    • Third Course: Intermezzo of Mango Sorbet
    • Fourth Course: Choice of Seared Scallops of Prime Filet or Half Roasted Chicken or Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Harvest Bowl
    • Fifth Course: Choice of Red Velvet Marquise or California Fresh Fruit Tart
  • Queen Mary’s Father’s Day Celebration, June 16: Father’s Day aboard the Queen Mary will treat all fathers as Kings.
    • Father’s Day Royal Sunday Brunch:  Flowing champagne, live music and a tantalizing signature menu with worldwide elegance, the Queen Mary’s Father’s Day Royal Sunday Brunch is sure to please even the most discerning palates.

WHEN:

Mother’s Day Dining, Sunday, May 12

  • Royal Sunday Brunch
    • 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Chelsea Chowder House & Bar
    • 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
  • Sir Winston’s Restaurant & Lounge
    • 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Father’s Day Dining, Sunday, June 16

  • Royal Sunday Brunch
    • 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

PRICING:

Mother’s Day Dining, Sunday, May 12

  • Royal Sunday Brunch – $69 without champagne, $79 with champagne, $24 children (ages 4-11)
  • Chelsea Chowder House & Bar, Prix-Fixe Menu – $78 Adults
  • Sir Winston’s Restaurant & Lounge, Prix-Fixe Menu – $82 Adults, $24.95 children 12 and under

Father’s Day Dining, Sunday, June 16

  • Royal Sunday Brunch – $69 without champagne, $79 with champagne, $24 children (ages 4-11)

WHERE:

The Queen Mary

1126 Queens Highway

Long Beach, CA., 90802

Credit: The Queen Mary. Images and information were provided.

Come Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Harbor!

The Ocean Adventures Catamaran at Dana Wharf is welcoming all moms aboard for their Mother’s Day Cruise on Sunday, May 12, at 10 a.m.. This special two hour cruise offers “MOMosas” or Champagne, fresh seasonal fruit, rich juices, and fresh out of the oven pastries for every mom to relax on the glistening waters of sunny SoCal.

With whale migration in season, the Harbor’s whale watching cruises are a hot spot for families and guests of all ages to enjoy some of nature’s most magnificent creatures. As a celebration of all moms on their special day, each Dana Wharf cruise will offer these ladies of the day a complimentary glass of sparkling champagne to enjoy.

Throughout the weekend, Dana Point’s Fine Art Association will be hosting a Fine Art Show and Sale along the Harbor’s scenic boardwalk from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Choose from a variety of gorgeous paintings as a special gift for the mom in your life, or enjoy these masterpieces as you stroll along the peaceful Harbor.

Enjoy waterfront dining and seaside delights with mom at one of the Harbor’s many restaurants, catering to every taste and desire. Sip a barista-made latte by the water, grab a deli sandwich and head over to Baby Beach, or indulge in a leisurely brunch with a picturesque harbor view.

Dana Point Harbor is excited to celebrate all the moms in our lives on this special weekend and is the perfect local getaway for any last minute family planning.

Credit: Dana Point Harbor.

Fun Ways to Spend a Rainy Day!

Whether you have children or not, a rainy day stuck in the house can get boring. If you’re looking for something fun to do on your rainy day, then look no further. Here are a variety of ways you can spend your day despite the rain, depending on your budget.

Pamper Session

Why not take this day stuck indoors to look after yourself? You can do this alone, with friends or your partner; either way, take this time to relax. Who says you need to go to a spa to be pampered? It is easy enough to spend a day soaking in the bathtub whilst the rain hits your window. Try making homemade face masks or take turns giving your partner a massage.

Movie Day

Another great way to spend a rainy day is by going to the movies. You can do this at home, or you can go to your local movie theatre. Making an at home movie theatre is a lot more comfortable though and means you can skip the adverts. Perhaps pick a film trilogy so you can watch one after the other. Don’t forget to top up on lots of movie drinks and snacks! If you do not yet have Netflix, you can find deals online to get an account for free. Search the web for deal sites like this for Netflix vouchers and lots more.

Indoor Play Day Out

If you have children and they are sick of being stuck in the house, a rainy day doesn’t mean you cannot leave the house at all. Find a great indoor play area or amusement arcade near you. This will keep you sheltered from the horrible weather and still gives you the chance to get out of the house. Many indoor play areas have a space for parents to sit and have a drink whilst their kids play, giving you the opportunity for some downtime of your own.

Camp Indoors

If you love camping but the weather is not permitting, camp indoors! You can put up a tent in your living space if you have enough room, otherwise, make your own fort. This is a chance to get creative and live just like you were camping. This means getting out the cards and not using electricity. Make it a proper experience, no cheating!

Play Games

A rainy day is the perfect opportunity to play those board games that have been lying about collecting dust. A games day is a great way to bond as a family or with friends and can be plenty of fun. Perhaps invite a few friends over and have a really competitive day. This can be lots of fun, so ask all your friends to bring round any games they have.

Read a Book

A rainy day provides the perfect opportunity to get started on your book. We often dismiss reading and with so much technology around us, it is easy to see why. Reading has many great benefits and you can lose yourself for hours in a good book. Instead of sitting in front of your television, why not pick up a book and get reading?

Cook

A rainy day is a perfect time to try out those recipes that you wanted to give a go! Whether you like cooking cakes or prefer savory dishes, use this time to have some fun in the kitchen. This also provides you with the opportunity to meal prep for the week, leaving you more time through the week for other activities.

Don’t let a rainy day get you down. Instead, follow our top tips to have great fun on your next rainy day.  

National Shrimp Day = $6 Shrimp Entrées at Rubio’s on Friday, May 10th!

Doesn’t this look delicious?!

Gather your tastebuds to celebrate National Shrimp Day at Rubio’s when every shrimp entrée is just $6, with the purchase of a beverage, on Friday, May 10, 2019. Rubio’s shrimp is responsibly sourced and marinated in a blend of ancho chilies, garlic, cilantro, olive oil and lime. Next, it is pan-seared on an authentic Mexican comal. 

 Simply bring the coupon (https://www.rubios.com/coupons/national-shrimp-day) to any of Rubio’s participating locations.

 Rubio’s Coastal Grill is encouraging eating seafood twice a week to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke, based on the American Heart Association’s recommendation. Rubio’s uses responsibly sourced shrimp, and features bold, unique flavors in dishes ranging from the Salsa Verde Shrimp Tacos to the California Bowl with pan-seared shrimp and the Classic Shrimp Burrito. For more information about Rubio’s Coastal Grill and to view the menu, visit https://www.rubios.com/

Credit: Rubio’s Coastal Grill.

It’s time for the Spring Baby Roundup!

Here are my favorite Baby products for this Spring!

The b.box insulated drink bottle is a must!

The double walled stainless steel keeps liquids cool for up to 7 hours and warm for up to 5, so now little ones can stay hydrated whatever the weather. Complete with carry handle and push button opening, designed specifically for little hands. Kids love the easy drinking silicone straw top. Parents love no leaks.  www.bboxbaby.com

This next one is a must for all babies!

The ergoPouch Cocoon Swaddle & Sleep Bag!

The Cocoon ‘no origami’ baby swaddle sleep bags are designed to be both easy to use and difficult to escape from. The simple zip up design will keep baby snug and securely swaddled without the need for complicated wrapping. Made from skin-friendly, breathable organic cotton for superior comfort, the Cocoon is acknowledged as ‘hip-healthy’ by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute for its ergonomically designed bell shaped bottom which provides extra leg room for healthy hips. For those bubs that like a little more freedom or are ready to transition out of a swaddle, the Cocoon has poppers in the armholes that can be used to convert from a swaddle to a sleeping bag. Tog rated for warmth, there is an ergoPouch swaddle to suit every season.  From SRP$24.99

ABOUT ERGOPOUCH:

Melbourne, Australia-based ergoPouch was founded in 2009 by Alina Sack.  As a mother, Sack drew on her own personal experiences of sleep deprivation to come up with innovative products designed to help babies and kids get a better night’s sleep.  The award-winning ergoPouch collection includes premium quality baby swaddles, sleeping bags, sleep suits and layers available from birth to 6 years of age sizing along with organic bedding.  All ergoPouch products are made with natural fibers including Organic Cotton and Bamboo.  ergoPouch products offer great functionality and versatility with swaddles that can easily transition to a sleeping bag and sleep suits that convert from bags to suits with legs for easy use from bassinet to stroller. 

For more information visit www.ergopouch.com.

FOLLOW ERGOPOUCH:

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ergopouch

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ergopouch

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/ergopouch

YouTube:  ergoPouch

Looking for Spring shoes for baby or toddlers?
pediped outlet has you covered!

pedipedOutlet.com

•       pediped® Outlet offers high-quality pediped® shoes at a fraction of the price! 

•       With prices up to 50% off pediped.com prices, pediped® Outlet offers an exceptional value in children’s shoes. 

•       pedipedOutlet.com is the official outlet site for pediped® footwear.

•       pediped® Outlet’s award-winning styles are available in EU sizes 17 to 38 (US newborn to 6 Youth).

•       Designed to promote healthy foot development, these baby, toddler and big kid shoes have been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance

About pediped®
Exceptional quality, unsurpassed comfort, and distinctive styling have made the award-winning company the fastest growing children’s footwear brand in the United States. pediped®footwear has been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance for the promotion of healthy foot development, and preeminent orthopedic medical professionals, Dr. Mininder S. Kocher and Dr. Thomas W. Vorderer, deem pediped® shoes an excellent choice for parents/caregivers who want their children’s feet to develop naturally and healthily. pediped® has received numerous industry awards and accolades including recognition from Earnshaw’s, the premier media resource serving the children’s market. In 2015 pediped® was recognized by the Footwear Industry Awards as the Children’s Footwear Brand of the Year and earned a 2016 Earnie Award from Earnshaw’s magazine as the Footwear Brand of the Year.

pediped® is sold in over 750 stores in the United States and 40 countries worldwide with an offering of more than 120 designs for boys and girls between its three lines, Originals®, Grip ‘n’ Go™ and Flex®. The award-winning footwear is available in EU sizes 17 to 38 (US newborn to 6 Youth).

For more information on pediped outlet, visit www.pedipedoutlet.com.

https://www.instagram.com/pedipedoutlet/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pedipedoutlet

Babies need a shampoo that smalls great and doesn’t cause tears!


Babo’s Smoothing Detangling Shampoo & Wash is a must have for anyone who has hair licks, knots, tangles and frizz. Contains smoothing and detangling moisturizers for faster combing time, less pulling and no more tears!

Babo Botanicals berry shampoo/wash

About Babo Botanicals

Babo Botanicals launched in 2010 by Kate Solomon who at the time was a pioneer in natural. She is a beekeeper and was an agricultural volunteer in the US Peace Corps. She took the best of natural and developed Babo. Before Babo, she was at L’Oreal working with chemicals to develop products and wanted change in personal products – particularly with children and sensitive skin.

Now Kate has gone beyond kids and has developed a range of non-toxic cosmetics and skincare for women with sensitive skin. Babo Botanicals products are designed for the most sensitive skin, from babies to adults and are 100% gluten, soy and dairy free.
 Babo Botanicals retail partners include Amazon, Anthropologie, buybuyBABY,,The Detox Market, Follain, Goop, Grove Collaborative, Pharmaca, Target, Thrive Market, Ulta, Whole Foods Market, Wegmans and many more. For more information, visit www.babobotanicals.com.

Follow Babo Botanicals:

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This next one is just too cute! A Muslin Wrap for a new baby is a must! I love this one from Stuck on You!

There are a variety of styles to choose from! I love this one!

Australia based Stuck On You was founded in 1995 by Carrie Felton, a mom of three boys.  A global leader in personalized products for baby & beyond, Stuck On You products are available in more than 15 countries.  Felton created Stuck On You to celebrate the individuality of every name, bring joy to new parents with unique, timeless products for every child, save families time, energy and money and help them to lead a more organized life.  In addition to a broad offering of labels, the Stuck On You collection includes activity and personalized books, durable and stylish bags, lunchboxes and drink bottles, stationery, bag tags and gorgeous gifts for all ages.

 Follow Stuck on You:

Facebook

Instagram

https://au.pinterest.com/StuckonYouAust/

https://www.linkedin.com/organization/935409/admin/updates

This next one is from one of my favorite Baby product companies!


MAM has a new Learn to Brush Set!

The MAM Learn to Brush Set features a two-step learning system and includes two brushes: a MAM Training Brush ideal to practice brushing with parents and a MAM Baby’s Brush for baby to try brushing independently. The set comes with an easy to clip on safety shield that can be used on either brush.  The safety shield keeps baby safe by keeping the brush from reaching too far into baby’s mouth. 

MAM’s new oral care character Brushy the Bear is featured on the brushes and in toothbrushing stories and games on the free MAM toothbrushing app “MAM Brushy Time!”.  Suitable for babies 5+ months, the MAM Learn to Brush Set has a suggested retail price of $9.99 (two-pack) and is available now at specialty and mass retailers. 

MAM, the leading designer brand of award-winning, medically sound and innovative baby products debuts a new oral care range.  MAM’s new Brushy the Bear oral care character is featured on the new toothbrush range to raise awareness for the importance of early oral care and to make brushing fun for babies and easy for parents!

Developed with input from 26 opinion leaders in 5 countries with various professional backgrounds related to oral care, the new MAM oral care line includes five products: MAM Oral Care Rabbit, MAM Massaging Brush, MAM Training Brush, MAM Baby’s Brush and MAM Learn to Brush Set. MAM’s Brushy the Bear character appears in toothbrushing stories that are available in several formats including on a special free MAM toothbrushing app “MAM Brushy Time!”.  The MAM Baby’s Brush 2 pack and Learn to Brush Set is available now at Target stores and on Amazon   For more information on MAM’s new oral care range visit www.mambaby.com.

Self Disclosure: I received samples of the above products to feature and only feature items that I highly recommend. No other compensation was received and info and images were provided.