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Mingei Family Sunday Offers Animalistic Fun!

May 13, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Mingei Family Sunday

Family Sunday at Mingei International Museum

Mingei International Museum, located within Balboa Park, in San Diego, hosts a fun Family Sunday the 3rd Sunday of each month. Mingei’s Family Sunday offers discount admission of only $5 per family, or just $3 for individual attendees. Visitors can explore the museum’s colorful exhibitions of folk art, craft and design, win a prize for completing a treasure hunt, as well as participate in other activities such as storytelling and hands-on projects!

Animalistic Fun!

This month the Family Sunday focus will be Animals! The San Diego Zoo will be bringing two different animals to present to attendees for a special animal encounter at 1pm! (So cool!) Aside from the animal presentations, Aunt Li-Anne, a storyteller whose created original stories inspired by the new Mingei Museum animal exhibit, Menagerie – Artful Animals from the Permanent Collection, will be telling stories aloud at both 2:30pm and 3:15pm. The Mingei never leaves out a fun hands-on project on Family Sunday, so you can expect to be creative by making an original animal-inspired art project with artist Lisa Alvarez throughout the afternoon!

Save The Date!

Family Sunday will take place from Noon-4pm on Sunday, May 19th, 2013. We’ve truly enjoyed the ones we’ve attended, and you can’t beat the price! It’s a great deal, and they always have fun activities for the little ones. This month sounds exceptionally fun, and just what our kids are into: Animals, Storytime, & Hands-On Art Projects! Perhaps we’ll see you there!

Website: Family Sunday at Mingei
Twitter: @MingeiMuseum
Facebook: Mingei on Facebook


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This is not a sponsored post. We’ve enjoyed attending Family Sunday at Mingei International Museum, and believe many of our readers would enjoy this event as well. We’re happy to share this information with our followers. Our opinions are our own.

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Active Play At Jungle Gym & Cafe!

May 13, 2013 By 2 Comments

Jungle Gym & Cafe
Jungle Gym & Cafe is a spacious indoor play center located in the Santee area of San Diego, catering to kids from babies up to about age 12. I first heard about it toward the end of last summer, just about the time of the arrival of our third baby. It sounded fun, and as a surprise, I finally got the kids there, and they really had a blast!

Active Playtime at Jungle Gym & Cafe!

Jungle GymThey have a lot of things to get the kids moving, including really fun rideable animals known as Safari Cycles, such as the zebra our daughter is pictured riding here. The thing I loved about the Safari Cycles is that you actually have to put some work into having them move. The kids were getting a good amount of exercise getting the animals to roll. Adults can even ride the large Safari Cycles as well!

Aside from the cool Safari Cycles, they also have large inflatable jumpers, a really cool play jet that the kids can climb in and slide out, hammock swings, a large gymnasium with a basketball hoop, balls, and lots of things to get the kids moving, an air hockey table, Sumo Wrestlers suits, sit-on scooters, and more. The kids got a lot of exercise and enjoyed each and every moment of it!

Baby Friendly!

Jungle Gym & CafeNow that we have a baby again, I’m always looking for places that accommodate babies as well as bigger kids. The main play area at Jungle Gym & Cafe has a lot of things to cater toward babies including a baby swing, bouncy seat, and an exersaucer. So great to give them parents a free hand, and have the babies there enjoy themselves as well!

The facility had multiple changing tables, which I really appreciate, having the need for one. The cafe had plenty of clean high chairs as well. I did not notice any play toys that appeared to be a risk for choking either.

Aside from the items catering to the littlest of littles in the main play area, Jungle Gym & Cafe has a separate play room just for kids age 0-3. Inside this designated room are books, a toddler tree house, a tiny little one-tot trampoline, and more. I really appreciate them having this special play space!

Other Things I Loved

Jungle Gym & Cafe• Free Wifi
• Free electric foot massagers for the adults.
• Large variety of food and beverages at the Cafe.
• Comfortable seating throughout the play center.
• Tables, chairs, and highchairs in the Cafe area.
• Multiple restrooms within the play center.
• The play center was clean, and all the play items appeared to be in good working order.
• Conveniently located right off the freeway with visible signage and parking right in front.
• You may bring food and beverages from home (but no restaurant food).

More Things They Offer

Aside from Open Play, Jungle Gym & Cafe also offers adult fitness classes with childcare included during the classes, birthday parties, classes for kids, Parent’s Night Out, and more.

What To Know Before You Go

Jungle Gym & Cafe is a socks-only environment. Adults and kids must leave their shoes in the cubbies when they enter, and wear socks throughout the establishment. If you forget to bring socks, you may purchase some at entry.

We spent three hours playing at Jungle Gym & Cafe on our visit, and had we arrived earlier, the kids would have happily played even longer! The only reason we left when we did was because it was closing time. I suggest at least three hours for your initial visit as well.

Click HERE for more information about Jungle Gym and Cafe. As stated above, the kids had a really fun time. We’ll likely go back in the future for more active fun. Perhaps we’ll see you there!

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Have A Ball This Summer With KIDS BOWL FREE!

May 8, 2013 By 1 Comment

bowling_shoesOur kids LOVE bowling, and we plan to have a ball this summer with the Kids Bowl Free program! We went to our local bowling center a couple of weeks ago and saw a postcard reminding us about the program. We signed up for it last year, and thought it was great! We’re excited that we’ve recently collaborated with the Kids Bowl Free program to share details on how it works. As compensation, we’ve received a Family Pass, and will share how you can purchase one of your own.

KIDS BOWL FREE!

How It Works
Signing up for the Kids Bowl Free program is easy! Head over to KidsBowlFree.com, and click on the area of the map where you want to register your child(ren) for the program. A list of bowling centers will pop up. Click the bowling center of your choice. (There are a ton participating in Southern California!) The location you choose for the Kids Bowl Free program will then have a registration form for you to fill out for your child(ren). A list of dates and times available for the program should appear on the right side of the page as well. Fill out the registration, and you’ll start receiving e-mails on Sunday mornings once the program starts. The weekly coupons are good for two free games per day for your kids all summer long. Print the weekly Kids Bowl Free coupons and take them to the bowling center you chose at registration. It’s a great deal, and a good way to get the kids out and doing something active!

The Family Pass
kids_bowl_freeWant to bowl with your kids or grandchildren? If so, the Family Pass is a great way to get each of you having a ball! The Family Pass pricing begins at $24.95, and includes 2 games per person listed on the pass each day! You may include up to 4 adults on the Family Pass. The Family Pass may be purchased online at the time you register your kids for the Kids Bowl Free program, or at any time during the length of the program.

bowlingMore Program Details
• Kids age 15 & under may participate.
• Standard shoe rental rates apply. Contact the alley of your choice for pricing.
• You must register each session in which you participate. If you signed up last year, you must register again this year to receive your free weekly coupons.
• You may sign up at more than one bowling alley, but you’ll need to use a different e-mail address for each location.
• You may sign up as many as 6 kids in your household. If you have more than 6 kids age 15 or under, you may register them by signing up with a second e-mail address, as stated in the info above.
• Each bowling alley determines when the program starts and ends at their establishment, as well as the times available to participate in the program. Some start and end earlier than others, and some have more hours available for participating.

We’ve registered our kids for the program, and signed up for our Family Pass as well. The kids are already asking to go to our local bowling center to make use of their coupons! Perhaps we’ll see you there!

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We received a Family Pass from the Kids Bowl Free program for sharing information about the program with our readers. We believe many of our followers would enjoy the program, and our opinions are our own.

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Take A Step Back In Time At Historic Old Poway Park!

April 29, 2013 By 2 Comments

old_poway_parkWhen you visit Old Poway Park, it’s like taking a step back in time. Back to a time when horse drawn carriages and steam trains were the main modes of transportation, and artisans handcrafted everything from clothes, to toys, to furniture. We took a trip there this past weekend for the Train Song Festival, and once again I was reminded how much we enjoy this special park as a family.

I originally wrote this post as a printed article for the 2012 Mom’s Guide To San Diego, but am just now sharing it here. I’ve updated the article, and included some new information that wasn’t in the printed format. I hope it inspires you to take a trip there with your family as well.

DAY TRIP TO OLD POWAY PARK!
Living in San Diego, we are so lucky to have an abundance of options for fun day trips. We live in a city where we can visit the mountains, desert, and ocean all in one day! One day trip my family loves is to Old Poway Park.

old_poway_parkWhen you go to Old Poway Park, it feels like you take a step back in time. It’s a beautiful park with mature trees, plentiful grass, nice walking paths, and a cute little creek. It also has a neat and informative Heritage Museum, historic buildings which were brought to the site, working railway, Blacksmith Shop, and a toy train shop inside the Train Depot.

Our kids love trains, and the antique ones which are part of the Poway Midland Railroad, at Old Poway Park, are no exception! They have a steam locomotive, trolley, and a Speeder Car that take turns running most weekends of the year. Train tickets are reasonably priced between $1.50 – $2.50 for adults depending upon the train running, and just .50 cents per child (kids under 2 are free!). It’s fun to take a few spins around the 1/2 mile track.

old_poway_parkOld Poway Park is a great place to picnic. You can pack a lunch and enjoy the afternoon on the grass, or at one of the picnic tables. If you like to barbeque, they have barbeques available for use. If you’d rather buy lunch or dinner, The Hamburger Factory, located within the park, has delicious food in a fun atmosphere. Sometimes we go there just for the dessert!

The park hosts the Poway Farmer’s Market from 8:00am – 11:30am on Saturday mornings. The Boardwalk Craft Market, with arts and crafts made by local artisans, happens on certain Saturdays as well. The park also has special events for the family including a Train Song Festival, Old-Fashioned 4th of July, Halloween festivities, and Christmas in the Park. Oftentimes they have persons dressed in 1800′s attire, and include fun activities such as train robbery reenactments, which are make the experience all that more memorable.

old_poway_parkBe sure to set aside a few hours for your first visit. It’s fun to take your time exploring. Also, bring your camera, as it’s a great place to take family photos. As you’ll see when you visit, it’s very popular with professional photographers!

Although there is no playground equipment at Old Poway Park, there is a playground right across the street at Aubrey Park. Parking is free at both Aubrey Park, and in and around Old Poway Park. Restrooms are available at both parks as well.

Old Poway Park is located at 14134 Midland Rd., in Poway. For more information, visit www.poway.org, and search for detailed info about the park using the drop down menu on the left. Perhaps we’ll see you there!

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Hands-On Fun and Learning For Kids at Build It Workshops!

April 14, 2013 By

build_itLiving in Southern California, we’re very lucky to have an abundance of fun and educational places to take kids. From children’s museums, to parks, to indoor play spaces, there are plenty of options. When I heard about a new place called Build It Workshops, located in Carlsbad, it sounded interesting, so I had to investigate!

What Is Build It!?
Build It, “The Kid Workshop”, is specifically geared towards creative hands-on learning. Their premise is based on using science, technology, engineering, and math, in a fun environment. Instead of leading the kids with building instructions, the employees allow them to use their minds creatively, building however they wish. They are officially listed as a “Makerspace”, where as their website states “is a facility where creativity comes together.”

build_itAt the time we visited we paid $12 for the 1st child, $10 for the second for Open Build time. I didn’t pay anything for the baby & I, as non-walkers, plus up to 2 adults per child are admitted for free. Be sure to either call or check their website for current pricing. Also, NO adult is admitted without a child, and NO children may be dropped off and left without a parent or guardian. It is not a child care or daycare center.

Inside you’ll find lots of kid-size tables (think train table style) full of different things wooden planks, castle building blocks, and so much more. I counted 15 tables full of different building pieces, PLUS 5 more just full LEGO! Loads of different options for building, and I’m told that they change it up periodically, and trade out certain pieces for others from time to time.

daily_buildAs well as the tables full of building pieces, general admission also includes building and decorating a cardboard box or similar item. They also offer a “Daily Build”, which is an additional $3-$15, depending upon the item being built. When we visited the Daily Build items were a “Brushbot” and “Scibblebot”, and were reasonably priced as extra items. Our 5 year old son made a “Scribblebot”, which was essentially a little robot with ink markers as legs. Super cool!

As well as the tables full of building pieces you’ll find a long track which the kids can race their LEGO or other vehicles that they put together in the Workshop. Our kids LOVED this, and spent a fair amount of time racing against each other. They even took a video, where they placed my camera on the vehicle and raced it down the track. This was hilarious to them!

build_itBuild It is geared toward kids age 3+ to 12 years of age. I can see why the minimum suggested age is at least 3, as some of the building pieces as smaller, and both safer and more appropriate for children of that age. Beware that even though your child may be below age 3, you will still pay an entry fee for them once they walk.

The Environment
When we arrived, the kids and I were each told the rules prior to entering the building area. No running, no blocks in your mouth, no throwing, no sick kids, clean up after yourselves, etc… I loved that they were so good at showing each of us the rules, which were mounted on the wall at entry. Safety is their top priority, and make they make it clear that they are not a playground.

There are seats available for people to sit in and relax, as well as counter space for using a laptop, tablet, or reading. They offer free WIFi, and have cubbies for you to place personal items. I loved the music they were playing, which included the likes of Dave Matthews Band, Jack Johnson, and Cold Play, and found it to be a very relaxing and comfortable environment. The Workshop was very clean and organized when we visited as well.

build_it_robotSnack-Time!
Build It is a nut-free facility, and does not allow outside food inside the facility. They are more than happy for you to enjoy outside food just outside the entrance, at one of their tables. They sell some packaged snacks and beverages at reasonable prices, which you may enjoy inside (or out).

Classes
If your kids have an interest in LEGO Robotics or Scratch Programming they might be interested in the classes offered at the Workshop. The classes are an additional fee, and are taught over several sessions. They sound both fun and educational!

build_itBirthday Parties
Build It offer scheduled birthday parties. They do not allow do-it-yourself birthday parties during open build hours. Be sure to call and check if they have any scheduled parties at the time you wish to visit, as they may be closed to accommodate a party.

Junior Builder Club
If you find you love it, Build It you might want to have your child become a Junior Builder Club member. Membership includes free general entry, free Daily Builds, discounts on classes, and other members-only perks. Ask them about it, or check their website for details. (Be sure to ask abut details, as the membership details could change.)

The Employees
I spoke with Rudy, the owner for quite a long time when we visited. He’s a father of two himself, and was very friendly and good with the kids that I noticed him interacting with while we were there. His employee, Jeremy, was also very good with the kids, and personable as well. Both commute quite a distance to and from the Workshop, and seem to both love and take pride in what they do!

All in all we loved Build It! Our daughter had just as much fun as our son, and I think many of her girl friends would love it as well. I’m sure we’ll be back again, and again. You can find Build It Workshops online at this LINK. Perhaps we’ll see you there!

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Make Your Own Kind of Music at Mingei’s Family Sunday!

April 12, 2013 By
mingei

Front of Mingei Museum in Balboa Park.

Mingei International Museum, located within San Diego’s Balboa Park, conducts a fun Family Sunday from Noon-4pm once a month. Mingei’s Family Sunday offers discount admission, of only $5 per family, or $3 for individuals. Attendees can explore the museum’s colorful exhibitions of folk art, craft and design, win a prize for completing a treasure hunt as well as participate in other activities such as storytelling and hands-on projects.

This month participants are invited to construct and decorate their own bazooka and participate in a Bombshell Boom Boom musical event with guest artist and musician Sean Conway. Please Note: This month’s Family Sunday is taking place on April 14th, 2013, one week prior to the normal Sunday, as not to coincide with the Earth Fair taking place the following week.

Not familiar with the Boom Boom Bombshell? Here’s a link to a video from one that Sean did at the New Children’s Museum: Boom Boom Bomshell

We’ve truly enjoyed the Family Sunday’s we’ve attended, and you can’t beat the price! It’s a great deal, and they always have fun activities for the littles. Perhaps we’ll see you there!

Website: Family Sunday at Mingei
Twitter: @MingeiMuseum
Facebook: Mingei on Facebook


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Not a sponsored post. We’ve enjoyed attending Family Sunday at Mingei, and we believe many of our readers would enjoy this event. Our opinions are our own. This site utilizes affiliate links.

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The LEGOLAND Hotel ~ A Dream Getaway For LEGO Lovers

April 5, 2013 By

legoland_hotelThe LEGOLAND Hotel, located RIGHT next to LEGOLAND California, in the Carlsbad area of San Diego, is the first of its kind to open in the Nation! We were invited to check out this fabulous hotel prior to opening to the general public, and have lots of info to share with you!

Being the LEGO-loving family that we are, we had been anticipating the opening of this hotel for over a year, and what an INCREDIBLE hotel it is! It’s absolutely fabulous! It’s the most kid-friendly hotel that we’ve experienced, with small details and extras throughout, that make it a child’s dream hotel.

When you arrive, you’re greated by a giant LEGO clock tower with a huge smoke-blowing dragon made of 350,000 LEGO bricks! Inside the hotel lobby, behind Check-In, you’ll see a wall made of 5,000 LEGO Mini Figures, with a bicycle riding LEGO man cycling across it. A large LEGO dragon centerpiece adorns the entry with a LEGO stream that leads up to the incredible LEGO Pirate Ship Play Area filled with more LEGO, a fun chalk board and more.

pirate_themeThe Guest Rooms
This fabulous family friendly hotel has 250 guest rooms. Each of the guest rooms include two separate sleeping areas and two TVs! The adults have a Queen size bed in their sleeping area, and the kids have a bunk bed with a pull-out trundle bed in theirs. Each guest room sleeps up to 2 adults and 3 kids and features LEGO models to match the theme of the room.

The beds are comfortable, and each room has a coffee maker, and a safe. We slept well, and didn’t hear any noise from either the hallway or surrounding rooms. Although we co-slept with our baby, Pack-In Plays are available by request, on a first come, first serve basis.

kingdom_llhThe guest rooms are available in either Pirate, Kingdom, or Adventure theme. Even the bathrooms go along with the room’s theme! Rooms are available in regular or Premium Theme, with the Premium Theme rooms having more decorative LEGO elements. The kids and I had the opportunity for a private tour of each of the styles of rooms, and loved them all. Some of the rooms even have a small patios, and/or a view of the Pacific Ocean, so if this is something that appeals to you, ask about it at the time of booking.

Every room has hidden surprises, including clues that lead to an in-room treasure chest. Follow the clues to find the chest, and inside you’ll find a prize! This is one of the many things our kids were really excited to do!

Even the bathrooms are LEGO theme, from the shower curtain, to the LEGO models on the walls! We love that they provide a stool in the bathroom for the kids, as well as a trainer seat on the toilet, perfect for little bums!

bricks_llhBricks Family Restaurant
Bricks Family Restaurant is located inside the hotel, and serves breakfast and dinner. Outside guests may also dine at the restaurant. Both meals are buffet style, with a child-size buffet area, as well as adult buffet service.

The kids loved being able to walk up to the buffet to serve themselves, and talk about YUM!!! The food was absolutely delicious! We’re not talking greasy buffet, we’re talking fresh fruit and veggies, a large assortment of main course meals, and lots of beverage options. When we dined at dinner they offered items such as roast turkey with stuffing, fish, carne asada with rice and beans, salad, (the most delicious) macaroni and cheese, chicken, and SO much more. Breakfast included omlettes made to order, pancakes, French toast, salmon, scones, and SO MUCH MORE. I didn’t hear a complaint from anyone.

miniwallP_llhMini’s Cafe
Mini’s Cafe is located near the large Pirate Ship play area, above Check-In. They offer an assortment of beverages including coffee, water, juice, etc… They also offer delicious cafe-style goodies such as muffins and scones. It’s a great place for a light snack in between meals. I had a cafe mocha, which was delicious.

Skyline Lounge
Skyline Lounge is adjacent from Bricks Family Restaurant. This lounge offers lunch and dinner options, and serves the poolside area. One of the Hotel Concierge tells me “The Carne Asada Fries are the bomb!”. Here you’ll also find a large assortment of adult beverages.

legoland_hotel_poolThe Pool
The hotel has a heated pool with cabanas, lounge chairs, and poolside restaurant service. It has a super cool incline, perfect for you to easily sit with a tot and cool off, even if he/she isn’t ready for a full swim. The total pool depth is 5ft. Guests may enjoy “Swim Up Movies” poolside on Friday and Saturday nights during peak season.

Entertainment
Live entertainment, including interactive play, and storytime, is available nightly for the kids at the Castle Play Area, near Mini’s Cafe. There was a fun kids dance party with current popular music when we stayed, which really got the kids moving! It was too cute watching them! LEGO character sightings are also common in Bricks Family restaurant, something our 5 year old and baby LOVED!!!

legos_lobby_llhThe Extras
The hotel is CHOCK full of fun extras including…
• A Disco Elevator with music and pulsating lights, a mirror ball, and sound effects on each floor.
• An animated Whoopie Cushion on the 1st floor, just outside the elevator. Another fave of the SoCal Kids!
• LEGOS, LEGOS, everywhere!!! More than 3,500 LEGO models throughout the hotel, made out of more than 3 million LEGO bricks!
• Talking mirrors in the 1st floor Guest Restrooms. Turn on the water to wash your hands, and you’re greeted by a fun saying!
• Neat tables inside Mini’s Cafe and Skyline with LEGO pieces under the glass. Hubby and I thought they were neat!
• Entry to the select rides and attractions within the Park before it officially opens!

lego_frogHotel Store
A small hotel store is located inside the Lobby, full of things you may have accidentally left behind such as a phone charger, sunscreen, or other such items, as well as souvenirs, cold drinks, and snacks.

Fitness Center
A fitness center is located on the 1st floor.

LEGO Event Room
A LEGO Event Room is located on the 1st floor, which can occupy up to 120 people banquet style.

Reservations
Reservations may be made by calling 877-LEGOLAND, or by visiting www.LEGOLANDHotel.com.

All in all the LEGOLAND Hotel is an incredible hotel and perfect place for a family to stay either when visiting the Parks, or simply for a fun getaway. If you and or your family love LEGO, this is THE place to come and stay. It’s a LEGO lover’s dream, a kid’s paradise, while still completely inviting for the adults as well. Perhaps we’ll see you there!

*******For more images and insider info from our trip the the LEGOLAND Hotel, please check out our Instagram feed. Link at the top right of the page. Thanks!*******

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Many, many thanks to LEGOLAND for inviting us to stay and experience the LEGOLAND Hotel first hand. We believe many of our readers would love to stay and experience the hotel, and we are so happy to have first hand knowledge to share with them. Our opinions are our own.

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San Diego Improv Group Offers Classes For Kids and Teens!

April 3, 2013 By

nct_youth_workshopsMany years ago, in my youth, I had the interest in performing, but I wasn’t very comfortable on stage. My parents wanted to support me in my interest in performing, so they enrolled me in an acting class. It was in this class that I was first introduced to improvisation, commonly known as “improv”, and developed the confidence to stand and perform in front of an audience.

My acting instructor has long retired, but I was recently introduced to a local school that teaches improv to kids. National Comedy Theatre (NCT), the same organization that performs live family-friendly improv shows, conducts improv camps, classes, and workshops for kids and teens.

The classes, camps, and workshops through NCT are held in their studio location in the Liberty Station area of San Diego, an area which has become the hub of instruction of the arts for youth in San Diego. Improv classes are currently held from 10am-11:30am Saturday mornings for kids age 8-12 & for teens age 13-17 on Saturday afternoons from 12:30pm-2pm. They also offer camps and workshops throughout the year. A new session is starting soon! Click HERE for more details about youth improv opportunities in San Diego through NCT.

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Springtastic Fun At Knott’s Berry Bloom March 23-April 7th!

March 30, 2013 By

knoots_berry_bloom_logo
Our family was recently invited to experience the first ever Springtime celebration at Knott’s Berry Farm, Knott’s Berry Bloom! The first thing we noticed when we entered the Park were the beautiful Springtime decorations. Lots of cut-out giant-sized butterflies and flowers, live flowers, and fun photo opportunities.

knottsberrybloom

Upon entry, the kids received a paper to take around the Park to search for the Easter Beagle. Each time they found one, an employee marked it off their paper with a special paper punch. It was a fun scavenger-type hunt, and a great way to explore the Park. Upon finfishing the hunt, the kids took their finished paper to the Redemption Center at Easter Beagle Egg Garden, located in Camp Snoopy.

berry_bloom

We also loved the chalk art we saw adorning the walkway. We saw the woman coloring with the chalk, and were amazed at how the art seemed to pop out in a 3 dimensional manner. Beautiful!

berry_bloom

After a full day of exploring the Park, we decided to check out the Towering Topiary Tasting Garden, a special wine and food pairing event they were having at the Wilderness Dance Hall. They had a large assortment of wine, but since I’m still nursing the baby I opted to join the kids in sampling the different selection of nonalcoholic lemonade. My favorite was the strawberry, which I found out is sold year-round in the same location as the churros. Hubby tried a few different beer samples, and we each tried some of the delicious food pairings. This is a special event they’re having right now during Berry Bloom. The cost is $15 for 6 samples of your choice. If you go, be sure to take a look at the beautiful centerpieces made of fruit. Gorgeous!

berry_bloom

Once we left the Wilderness Dance Hall, the kids asked if they could have a pastel drawing made of their profiles. It sounded fun, and we agreed since we had never done anything like it prior, and it was reasonably priced at $10 per person. The artist did a great job, and now we have a really cool keepsake!

knottsberryfarm

Prior to leaving the Park, we decided to indulge in an ice cream cookie sandwich. It was two giant chocolate chip cookies with soft serve vanilla ice cream between the two, then rolled in mini chocolate chips. It was HUGE, and we each loved every bite of it. It too was reasonably priced at under $6.

All and all we had a Springtastic day! Berry Bloom is happening now through April 7th, 2013. Click HERE For more information on the event. Perhaps we’ll see you there!

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We were received complimentary media tickets to experience Knott’s Berry Bloom. The event was one which we believe our readers would enjoy, and our opinions are our own. Many thanks to Knott’s for inviting us for the day!

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National Comedy Theatre (NCT) Brings Family-Friendly Improv To San Diego

March 27, 2013 By

We were recently invited to an evening improv show in San Diego. My initial thought was that it would be good to attend to see if this might be a fun Date Night or a Girls Night Out option to share with our readers.

nct_sandiegoThe Show
I picked up a girlfriend and off we went to see the live show. We arrived in Mission Hills, parked, and found National Comedy Theatre (NCT) nestled away at the top of some stairs high above India Street. When arrived we saw several young kids, probably around 8 years old, with their parents at Will Call. I kind of figured they must be progressive parents, alright with exposing their littles to language and ideas which are usually forbidden for youngsters.

When we entered the theater I realized there more kids seated inside. LOTS more! I thought myself, I must be missing ~something ~. We took our seats, and waited for the show. A man went on stage, and gave us the run down on what to expect. He explained that it was improv, not stand-up comedy, and that although they took prompts from the audience, that it was a good, clean family-friendly show.

The performance we saw was hilarious! The performers doing the improv were really well, and it didn’t appear that there was a bad seat in the house. The kids in attendance all seemed to love it, and the entire audience was laughing out loud throughout the show. I didn’t expect the entertainment to be a fun way to introduce children to the world of live comedy, but it turned out to be just that. As I expected, it would also make a great Date Night or Girls Night Out / Moms Night Out.

The Location
NCT’s live performances take place in their theater on India St., in the Mission Hills neighborhood of San Diego. In this area you’ll find many restaurants, including El Indio, Shakespeare’s Pub, and Gelato Vero Cafe, to name a few. It’s a great location to have a bite to eat prior to a show.

About National Comedy Theatre (NCT)
NCT has performed more than 3600 shows in their 13+ seasons, since their opening night in October 1999. It’s the longest continuously running show in San Diego history, and is clean and appropriate for all ages. Tickets range in price from $10-$15 each, and group sale options are available. NCT also conducts improv workshops, performs at corporate and private events, conducts team building workshops, and now offers improv classes and camps for kids and teens, as well as instruction for adults.

For more information about NCT, checkout their website at this LINK. We truly enjoyed the show, and plan return with our children. My personal opinion is that it would be best understood and appreciated by kids age 8 on up. Perhaps we’ll see you there!

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Many thanks to National Comedy Theatre for inviting us to attend a live show. We had a wonderful time, and believe many of our readers would enjoy the show as well. It was seriously funny!

Filed Under: Live Family Friendly Improv with NCT Tagged With: , , , , , ,
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