Ling Ling Asian Food Los Angeles Event with Katie Chin

Self Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Ling Ling, all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

   

Last week, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the Ling Ling Asian Food Los Angeles Event (at Hipcooks in West L.A.)  with a wonderful group of Bloggers and the amazing Chef Katie Chin. It was an amazing experience and I especially enjoyed learning great cooking tips from Katie Chin and tasting the delicious Ling Ling food products! We were put into small groups and we actually made two recipes: Kale with Ginger, which is a delicious salad and Sweet & Spicy Green Beans. They were simple recipes and Katie Chin made everything seem super easy!

I know that I will be making both of these recipes for my family for Chinese New Year! My favorite was the Sweet & Spicy Green Beans!

    

Besides having so much fun at this event and meeting Katie Chin, my favorite thing was trying the delicious Ling Ling food! I had tried the Fried Rice before but had not tried the Noodles or the Potstickers. So, I was really excited to try both of them!

     

It’s really difficult to just pick one of their products as my ultimate favorite because everything was so good! I loved the delicious Authentic Asian Style Noodles! They were absolutely tasty! I tried the Drunken Noodles and the Yakisoba Noodles and I liked both of them so cannot choose between the two! I am already a big fan of Ling Ling’s Fried Rice so I am planning to make it for Chinese New Year for my family. If I have to choose a favorite though, it would be the Potstickers! I hadn’t tried them before and let’s just say…you can’t just have one! I REALLY can’t wait to find these at my local store and make them for the Chinese New Year! You can check out Ling Ling’s website here!

I also learned so much about Chinese New Year from the knowledgeable Chef Katie Chin and I am truly looking forward to making a celebration for my family this year! I actually am planning to make a feast with Ling Ling Fried Rice, Noodles and Potstickers. I am also on the lookout to find their Spring Rolls!  I will also be buying a few Red & Gold decorations and you can easily use red napkins and Oriental Trading and World Market have some really nice decorations.

I also learned about some Chinese New Year customs and superstitions from Katie Chin. Two of my favorites are the following:

1. Greeting friends with oranges or tangerines during the New Year will ensure that your friendships remain intact.

2. No sweeping on New Year’s Day as you’ll sweep all your good luck out the door. No sweeping for me on February 16th!

Here are a couple more:

Stepping into new shoes on New Year’s morning to start your year off on the right foot (A Personal Favorite of Chef Katie)
Distribution of Red Envelopes (signifying Joy and Luck) filled with money to start the year with prosperity.

So, how do you plan to celebrate Chine New Year this February 16th? Don’t forget to look for the tasty Ling Ling products at your local store! Find out where to buy here!

 

Tickets For DISNEY LIVE! Presents Mickey And Minnie’s Doorway To Magic

Open the door to reveal mesmerizing worlds of unforgettable Disney moments and grand illusions when Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic visits Long Beach Terrace Theatre & Citizens Business Bank Arena, Ontario from January 18-January 21. Tickets are on sale now.

Join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and the comical duo of Donald and Goofy as 25 of your favorite characters surprise and captivate at every turn of the knob! See the Fairy Godmother transform Cinderella’s rags into a beautiful ball gown in a split second; the Toy Story gang defy the dimensions of Andy’s toy box with the help of the green army men; and the spectacular stage debut of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider as they rise into the sky amidst the floating lanterns. With special appearances by Snow White, Tinker Bell and Aladdin’s Genie, you never know what to expect or who might join in the fun. In Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic, you hold the ultimate key to unlocking your imagination.

L O N G   B E A C H

WHEN:                 Thursday, January 18 – Friday, January 19

  • Thursday, January 18 6:30 PM
  • Friday, January 19                 1:00 PM & 6:30 PM

 

WHERE:             Long Beach Terrace Theatre – 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802

 

TICKETS:           Ticket prices start at $20

                                 Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or in-person at the venue Box Office.  *prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

 

O N T A R I O

WHEN:                 Saturday, January 20 – Sunday, January 21

  • Saturday, January 20 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM
  • Sunday, January 21 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM

 

WHERE:             Citizens Business Bank Arena – 4000 Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario, CA 91764

 

TICKETS:           Ticket prices start at $20

                                Tickets available for purchase online at DisneyLive.com or Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or in-person at the venue Box Office.     *prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply.

To learn more about Disney Live!, go to www.DisneyLive.com, visit us on Facebook and YouTube and follow us on Twitter @Disney Live!

Credit: Feld Entertainment.

Looking for a great place to catch a bite to eat this holiday season? Islands is the place to go!

     

Are you out and about still shopping for the holidays? I know I am but only for a few more days…I hope! But, one of my favorite places to go and grab a quick bite is Islands! I had the opportunity to visit one of my favorite Islands locations last week and as usual…the service and the food was great! My husband loves their burgers and he says they really have the freshest hamburger buns around!

I love their tacos! One of my favorites is the Islands’ Yaki Tacos – Flour tortillas stuffed with grilled chicken, teriyaki sauce, cheddar & Jack Cheese, fresh pineapple salsa, lettuce and tomatoes with a side of ranchero beans. But, I opted to try something new! I STILL had tacos but I tried their Northshore Tacos, Limited this time. It’s from their Paradise’s Bikini Beach options which are fewer calories but then I had to get a side of their guacamole…lol..so not sure if it was fewer calories by then but it was delicious!

I always have a wonderful time when I visit Islands! The customer service is amazing and I like that they have a wide variety of food so I always can try something new when I go there! I also tried their Chicken Tortilla Soup and I highly recommend it! If you are looking for an appetizer…you have to try my all time favorite: The Spinach and Artichoke Dip! Honestly, I can not go there and not order it!

     

Islands also offers a Gremmie menu including Li’l Sliders, Half Sandcastle (grilled cheese), Jr. Wave Burger and more.

**Additionally, Islands is giving a $5 bonus card for every $25 gift card purchase through December 31st**  Now, how cool is that?! So, don’t forget to go to Islands this holiday season! 

 

Self Disclosure: I had the opportunity to review Islands to facilitate this post. Photo Credit: SoCal City Kids. 

The Queen Mary’s All-New CHILL Unveils Calendar of International Holiday Celebrations

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The world-famous Queen Mary invites guests to embark on an international holiday expedition this winter with the unveiling of the all-new CHILL, open December 13, 2017 through January 7, 2018. Featuring the first-ever Ice Adventure Park in the U.S., the newly-inspired CHILL offers a rush of icy family fun with nightly entertainment throughout the park including international cultural celebrations, live music, Rockettes-style dance performances, fireworks, light shows, DJs, dancing, tasty food, a nightly Christmas Tree lighting ceremony and much more.

Experience the 38,000-square foot ice park honoring international holiday celebrations with one-of-a-kind entertainment and traditions of Germany, Switzerland, China, Russia, Holland, and the North Pole. Embark in traditional Chinese entertainment in CHILL’s version of the Forbidden City with nightly performances by Shaolin Monks and experience first-hand the beautiful rhythmic movements of the traditional Lion Dance. CHILL’s Kung Fu Forest will offer fireworks every Sunday night. Glide through the finish line of Shanghai Speedway nightly ($5 add on) on CHILL’s big wheel ice bikes. Saunter down Lantern Lane into the Lucky Bamboo and meet CHILL’s Panda Character for warm bear-hugs and unique selfie opportunities.

Take in the traditions of Germany with a stroll through CHILL’s Munich Market and raise a stein to the nightly live tunes from the authentic Alpine Band. Meet the ethereal Christkindle, the German gift bringer and bearer of lights, and shop traditional holiday trinkets and souvenirs at the nightly festive market. Cozy up in Switzerland’s Alpine Square by roasting marshmallows and building gooey s’mores at the toasty fire pit. Dine in the Alpine Lodge, open nightly, serving traditional Swiss bites overlooking the Matterhorn Mountain tubing slide and meet the gift bearer of the Alps, Sinterklaas, for photos and celebrations of the Twelfth Night.

Show off your best grooves as the DJ spins today’s top hits at the Russian Disco in CHILL’s Blizzard Boulevard. Experience the magic of the Northern Lights Show offered nightly at the Aurora Borealis Light show and meet the gift bringers of Russia, Father Frost and The Princess. Holland’s Windmill Way will offer nightly performances on the Illumination stage with hourly performances by Rockettes-style dancers and a nightly tree lighting ceremony. Meet the magical Father Time, Holland’s gift bearer who will share interesting facts on stargazing and how the Dutch discovered the telescope. Skate over to America’s North Pole for a visit and photo with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. Visit the Candy Bar to grab sweet treats for the little ones, and liquid candy sips for the adults.

The all-new CHILL also offers an opportunity to experience international fare. Tempt your taste buds with beverages and bites from around the globe including Germany’s Twisted Pretzel and Tasting Tavern and the Brat Haus. Pay tribute to Swiss delicacies with a visit to the Zurich Deli, the Fondue Pot, and the Alpine Lodge’s restaurant: Chateau Bar. Sip on traditional teas in China’s Zen Teahouse and the Hot Pot. Then warm up in the Russian Pierogi Paradise or the Stroganoff and Stew Pot. Curb your sweet tooth with gourmet donuts, make-your-own Gingerbread house or visit the Fire Pit to make holiday s‘mores.

CHILL pricing starts at $29.00 for adults (ages 9+) and $19.00 for kids. VIP Ultimate Expedition tickets are also available starting at $79.00 for adults (ages 9+) and $69.00 for kids. CHILL will run Dec. 13, 2017 – Jan. 7, 2018, excluding Dec. 31, 2017. For more information, including an entertainment schedule, hours of operation and to purchase tickets online, visit http://queenmary.com/chill/

Credit: The Queen Mary. 

LA Zoo’s Reindeer Romp Features Live Reindeer, Holiday Crafts, Keeper Talks, Photo Ops

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The L.A. Zoo presents the only opportunity in Los Angeles to see a herd of live reindeer at its Reindeer Romp holiday celebration, which debuts Friday, November 17, 2017, and runs through Sunday, January 7, 2018 (except Christmas Day), 10 am to 4 pm. Guests are invited to make the most of the holiday season with a full day of fun and adventure at the Zoo, an especially beautiful and enriching place to spend quality time with kids and extended family during the holidays.

The season is highlighted by a rare chance to visit with reindeer in their charming “Reindeer Village” habitat also featuring fun reindeer facts and holiday photo ops daily. Weekend activities include make-your-own antler crafts, reindeer keeper talks at 11 am and 2 pm and a rotating schedule of animals unwrapping “gifts” of their own. Visits with Santa Claus in a whimsical North Pole setting (for a nominal fee) take place on weekend days, November 18 through December 17, 11 am to 3 pm, with a variety of photo packages available. For a great value, all Reindeer Romp activities, except Santa photos, are free with paid Zoo admission. Also included with paid Zoo admission are daily close-up “Animals & You” encounters, intriguing shows, talks and guided experiences, training demonstrations and more.

The landmark Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, drawing nearly 1.8 million visitors each year, is home to a diverse collection of 1,100 animals representing 250 different species, many of which are rare or endangered, as well as a botanical collection comprising over 800 different plant species with approximately 7,000 individual plants. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), whose members meet rigorous professional standards for animal welfare, the Zoo has achieved renown as an international leader in the preservation of endangered species and a conservation center for the care and study of wildlife. Its responsibility toward wildlife conservation not only encompasses safeguarding the animals in its care but also actively participating in the preservation of some of the world’s most critically endangered species and their habitats. Its many conservation successes include having led the charge in saving California condors from extinction and restoring populations of these critically endangered animals to their native habitats. The Zoo’s lush grounds on 113 acres feature Rainforest of the Americas, an extraordinary collection of endangered and exotic mammals, reptiles, fish and amphibians living in spaces that exemplify their natural habitat in the rainforest biosphere; Chimpanzees of Mahale Mountains, home to one of the largest troops of chimpanzees in the United States; Red Ape Rain Forest, where visitors can walk among orangutans; the LAIR (Living Amphibians, Invertebrates, and Reptiles); Elephants of Asia; Campo Gorilla Reserve; and one of the largest flocks of flamingos in any zoo in the world. Among other highlights are an extraordinary, hands-on Hippo Encounter and face-to-face Giraffe Feedings; the Winnick Family Children’s Zoo and Muriel’s Ranch animal contact area; the Tom Mankiewicz Conservation Carousel; a variety of daily opportunities to learn more about animals, including close-up visits, special feedings and intriguing talks; and much more. The private, non-profit Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA), which has supported the Zoo in partnership with the City of Los Angeles for more than five decades and provides funding for and operates seven essential Zoo departments, has 60,000 member households representing more than 240,000 adults and children. As evidence of the Zoo’s popularity, GLAZA attracts one of the largest membership bases of any cultural organization in Los Angeles.

Zoo admission, which includes all Reindeer Romp activities except Santa photos, is $21 for general admission (ages 13 to 61); $18 for seniors (ages 62+), and $16 for children (ages 2 to 12). No ticket is required for children under age two. Admission for Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association members is free.

The Los Angeles Zoo is located in Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways.  5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA  90027. Free parking is available.  For additional information, contact (323) 644-4200 or visit www.lazoo.org/reindeerromp.

Credit: The Los Angeles Zoo. Photo Credit: Jamie Pham.

Record-Breaking Animated Hit Disney•Pixar’s Finding Dory Makes a Splash as part of Disney On Ice presents Follow Your Heart

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Follow your heart straight to adventure with Disney On Ice! Families will make unforgettable memories with Mickey, Minnie and all your Disney friends when the new ice show Disney On Ice presents Follow Your Heart arrives to the Greater Los Angeles Area! The ice skating extravaganza features the beloved stories & characters from the smash hit animated movies Disney•Pixar’s Finding Dory and Inside Out for the first time in a live production, with performances from December 14 through January 8, 2018 in Los Angeles (STAPLES Center), Anaheim (Honda Center), Long Beach (Long Beach Arena) and Ontario (Citizens Business Bank Arena).

 

Just keep swimming with Dory, Nemo, Marlin and new pal Hank from Disney•Pixar’s Finding Dory as they embark on a life-changing excursion to find her parents and discover the true meaning of family. Cheer with Joy, Sadness, and the rest of the Emotions from Disney•Pixar’s Inside Out as they help Riley find the confidence to win the big hockey game.

 

Venture to wintery world of Arendelle where Olaf and Kristoff help reunite royal sisters Anna and Elsa from Disney’s Frozen and learn love is the most powerful magic of all. See Cinderella, Rapunzel, Tiana and the Disney Princesses make their dreams come true through their virtues of bravery, kindness and perseverance. And celebrate true friendship with Buzz Lightyear, Woody and the Toy Story gang.

 

L O S   A N G E L E S

 

WHEN:           Thursday, December 14 – Sunday, December 17

  • Thursday, December 14 7:30 PM
  • Friday, December 15 7:30 PM
  • Saturday, December 16 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
  • Sunday, December 17 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM

 

WHERE:            STAPLES Center – 1111 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015

 

TICKETS:         Ticket prices start at $25!

                                Discount Opening Night tickets available for as low as $15 each on select seating (not valid for premium VIP/Front Row seating) 

 

Tickets available for purchase online at AXS.com, charge by phone at 888-9AXS-TIX or in-person at the venue Box Office.             *prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

 

A N A H E I M

 

WHEN:               Wednesday, December 20 – Sunday, December 24

  • Wednesday, December 20              7:00 PM
  • Thursday, December 21 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
  • Friday, December 22 11:00 AM & 7:00 PM
  • Saturday, December 23 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
  • Sunday, December 24 11:00 AM & 3:00 PM

 

WHERE:            Honda Center – 2695 E. Katella Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92806

 

TICKETS:         Ticket prices start at $25!

                                Discount Opening Night tickets available for as low as $15 each on select seating (not valid for premium VIP/Front Row seating) 

 

Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or in-person at the venue Box Office.

*prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

 

L O N G   B E A C H

 

WHEN:           Wednesday, December 27 – Monday, January 1

  • Wednesday, December 27 7:00 PM
  • Thursday, December 28 7:00 PM
  • Friday, December 29 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
  • Saturday, December 30 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
  • Sunday, December 31 11:00 AM & 3:00 PM
  • Monday, January 1 1:00 PM & 5:00 PM

 

WHERE:            Long Beach Arena – 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802

 

TICKETS:         Ticket prices start at $25!

                                Discount Opening Night tickets available for as low as $15 each on select seating (not valid for premium VIP/Front Row seating) 

 

Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or in-person at the venue Box Office.             *prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

 

O N T A R I O

 

WHEN:           Wednesday, January 3 – Sunday, January 7

  • Wednesday, January 3 7:00 PM
  • Thursday, January 4 7:00 PM
  • Friday, January 5 7:00 PM
  • Saturday, January 6 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
  • Sunday, January 7 11:30 AM & 3:30 PM

 

WHERE:            Citizens Business Bank Arena – 4000 Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario, CA 91764

 

TICKETS:         Ticket prices start at $25!

                                Discount Opening Night tickets available for as low as $15 each on select seating (not valid for premium VIP/Front Row seating) 

 

                                Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or in-person at the venue Box Office.             *prices subject to change; additional venue/ticketing fees may apply.

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To discover more about Disney On Ice, visit www.DisneyOnIce.com

or follow us on these social media platforms:

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/DisneyOnIce

Twitter: @DisneyOnIce #DisneyOnIce

YouTube: www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce

Instagram: @DisneyOnIce

Credit: Feld Entertainment.

 

It’s starting to look like Christmas at The Shops At Montebello!

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The holidays are here and it’s time for Christmas photos with Santa and Christmas shopping! The best place to go? The Shops at Montebello is a favorite of mine!

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Eager children and their families can experience the joy and magic of the holiday season with a visit to the Simon® Santa Photo Experience at The Shops at Montebello. Children can whisper wishes and capture photo memories with Santa which began on  November 10 and runs through Christmas Eve Day, December 24 at Center Court.

 Save time, avoid the line with Santa by Appointment! Now you can reserve your magical moment with Santa online at http://simonsanta.com.

For local pet owners, there is a  popular Pet Photo Night with Santa December 3 from 8:30 – 9:30 p.m. Many pet owners view their pet as an integral member of the family and are just as committed in caring for their pets as their “human” family members. Pet Photo nights are hosted after regular mall closing and the set gets an extensive cleaning following the event to remove any potential risk to allergy sufferers.

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The Shops at Montebello will also host Breakfast with Santa and a Holiday Photo Booth on December 2. Breakfast with Santa is 9 – 10 a.m. Reservations are required. Seasonal carolers will delight children and families.

I just love shopping at The Shops at Montebello because they have the best shops! Some of my favorites are the following:  Bath and Body Works, Old Navy, and Cotton On! This is the best place to find Christmas gifts for everyone on your Christmas list this holiday season! They also have some great places to catch lunch or dinner such as Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que! On Black Friday if you spend $200 or more at the following retailers: Disney Store, Express, Hollister, New York & Company, Cotton On, Steve Madden, Victoria’s Secret, Vision Center, Zales Jewelers, Robert Wayne Footwear, Bath & Body Works, and the Children’s Place..you will receive a $25 voucher from Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que.  I’m sure that there will also be some great Black Friday deals! 

Don’t miss other holiday festivities, including:

  • Black Friday Fun on November 24 where shoppers can look forward to hot chocolate and desserts, holiday photo booth and entertainment.
  • November 15 – December 24 – Enter to Win 2 Disneyland Annual Passports.  Entry forms at Guest Services.  No purchase necessary.
  • MDA Fill the Boot from November 24-26 with Montebello Fire Department hosting a fundraiser for families with muscular dystrophy.
  • Join The Shops at Montebello for the puppy Pals Family Programming Event on December 1 from 5 – 6:30 p.m. in Victoria’s Secret Court with activities for the kids and prize giveaways.
  • Don’t miss theVisa Gift Card Holiday Event with KOST 103.5 on December 2 from 2 – 4 p.m. The first 200 shoppers to receive a holiday scratcher.  Every scratcher wins a prize.  No purchase necessary.
  • The Holiday Photo Booth is December 2 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Countdown to Christmas from December 14 to 24 with Manny on the Streets from KIIS-FM.

Self Disclosure: I received some form of compensation to post. Photo Credit: SoCal City Kids.

Mozzy is Pet of the Week!

MOzzy, November 16 Pet of the Week

Ever been punished for something you didn’t do? Then you and Mozzy will have a lot to talk about. Mozzy, a pit bull terrier about 3 years old, was surrendered to the shelter by his owner. Why? The other dog in the house was a biter, so the owner was afraid Mozzy would be a biter! And not so——he’s a big lover and would rather lounge around with you than chase toys. He is good with children, the owner said, so he’d be a fine addition to your Thanksgiving get-together (keep him away from those table scraps!). Meet Mozzy on the shelter side of the Companion Animal Village at 7700 East Spring St., (562) 570-PETS. Ask for ID#A599173.

(The usual suspects contributed to this rescue)

Courtesy: Credit of the Companion Animal Village.