San Diego Zoo Safari Park: A Magical Day at the Butterfly Jungle

San Diego Zoo Safari Park: A Magical Day at the Butterfly Jungle

Stepping into the Butterfly Jungle at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park felt like stepping into another world one filled with wonder, tranquility, and pure magic. Tiffany, Wynter and Skylar visited the hidden jungle aviary was alive with vibrant colors as hundreds of butterflies fluttered gracefully among the lush greenery and blooming flowers. It was unlike anything we had ever experienced, a rare and fleeting moment of connection with nature’s most delicate creatures.

Thank you Sand Diego Zoo Safari Park for hosting us!

Memorable Moments

From the moment we walked in, butterflies landed gently on our shoulders, hats, and even our hands. It felt as if time slowed down as these tiny, winged wonders danced around us. Holding out a nectar-soaked sponge, we watched in awe as a butterfly delicately sipped from it, an intimate and almost surreal encounter. The park’s wildlife specialists enriched the experience by sharing fascinating insights about their life cycle and their crucial role as pollinators, deepening my appreciation for these extraordinary insects.

A Visual Wonderland

Everywhere we turned, breathtaking sights unfolded. The bold, electric blue of a morpho butterfly caught my eye as it gracefully glided past, while a delicate painted lady rested momentarily on my wrist. It was a photographer’s paradise, each moment more beautiful than the last. The soft hum of nature, the warm sunlight filtering through the leaves, and the gentle flutters of wings made the experience feel almost otherworldly. So worth the visit!

Butterfly Jungle is NOW OPEN through April 20th

Butterfly Jungle was truly one of a kind an experience that left us feeling both peaceful and inspired. There’s something incredibly special about standing still and letting nature come to you, about witnessing the fragile beauty of butterflies up close. It’s an annual event, but each visit is unique, as no two moments in nature are ever the same. Until next time, we will hold onto the memory of this extraordinary day, grateful for the rare chance to be surrounded by such delicate wonders.

Address:

15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, California 92027-7017

St. Patrick’s Day Party Recipes

St Patricks Day

Happy St. Patty’s Day friends! I feel like the luckiest girl in the world because I ave so many amazing readers like you!

My blogger friends and I love getting together for the holidays. It’s our excuse to catch up and spend some girl time.  For St. Patty’s Day were shared some yummy food, good conversation, and celebrated friendship. This group of women inspire me to explore new recipes and get out of my comfort zone when cooking. I look forward to more foodie ventures with them!

Here are some quick recipes we shared at our St. Patrick’s Day Party! I have attached the links to some of their recipes.

St Patricks Day
Guinness and Black Bean Chile

Today I experimented a bit and made Guinness and Black Bean Chile for the first time. I have to say it was delish and it was easy to make. The girls enjoyed it. (or they are just being really nice)

Serves 8-12

  • 2 ½ pounds boneless NY sirloin steak (or top sirloin steak), cubed
  • 1 Package of  uncooked Black Beans
  • Olive Oil 3 Tablespoons
  • Lawry’s Seasoning Salt (for meat seasoning)
  •  Your choice of meat, cubed  2 ½ pounds ( I used boneless NY sirloin steak)
  • 2 (10-oz) cans chili-style diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained (Rotel brand)
  • 1 ½ cups chopped onion (from about 1 ½ medium onions)
  • 2 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 (15 oz) can Guinness Irish stout
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • shredded cheddar or cheese of choice for topping (optional)
  • sour cream for topping (optional)
  • chopped green onion for topping (optional)

First I followed the directions on the black bean package and boiled the beans. Cook in a large soup pot. Add salt to the beans. (It took over an hour).

Separately on my stove top, I added the olive oil on a skillet pan and the minced garlic. I cooked the diced meat and seasoned it with Lawry’s Seasoning Salt. (season as desired) I used approximately 1.5 Teaspoons. I cooked until fully ready.

Chop up the onion, red peppers, chopped green onion.

After the black beans were fully cooked (in the large soup pot), I added the can of Guinness Bear. I then added the veggies: Red Peppers, Onion, can of sliced chiles, and the 2 cans chili-style diced tomatoes with green chilies.

Last, I added the chile powder, cumin, and cornstarch to thicken the chile.

The girls and I served in a bowl and garnished the chile with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and sliced green onion. (shown above & optional)

St Patricks Day
Beer Cheese Fondue Recipe- By Rockin Mama

Caryn Bailey’s Beer Cheese Fudue with pretzels was a hit. I could taste a slight hint of beer in it,  but it did not overpower the cheese. We devoured it in 2.5 seconds!

St Patricks Day
Oreo Truffles Recipe- By On The Go OC

Penny’s Oreo Truffles were delightful and she said they were super easy to make…. Check out the recipe on her blog!

St Patricks Day
Rainbow Sherbert with Lemon Lime Soda- By Let’s Play OC

This drink made by Mary Tran- Let’s Play OC was refreshing!

This is what you need to make it:

  • Lemon
  • Yellow & Green Sprinkles
  • Mason Jar
  • Rainbow Sherbert
  • Lemon Lime Soda

Mary rubbed a sliced lemon on the rim of the mason jar then flipped over and dipped the glass in sprinkles.

She then scooped in the Rainbow Sherbert into the mason jar.

Last, she poured the Lemon Lime soda over the sherbert. (pour it slowly or it will foam like the pic above)

Follow my friend’s adventures on their blogs! Let’s Play OC, Family Review Guide, Rockin Mama, Balancing The Chaos , and On The Go OC! 

St. Patricks Day

Happy St. Patricks Day all!

Transformers EarthSpark Season 1 NOW Available to Stream and on DVD

Get ready for action-packed adventures in Transformers EarthSpark Season 1! Dive into our exclusive interview with Zeno Robinson and Kathreen Khavari as they discuss their roles in this great series!

Join the Malto family as they team up with Terran Transformers and legendary Autobots to take on the sinister Dr. Meridian! NOW available to stream and watch on DVD! ????

SYNOPSIS:

Transformers: EarthSpark” Season 1, Episodes 11-26 is now available to stream and on DVD. The story continues to follow the Malto family as they settle in the remote town of Witwicky, Pennsylvania. As they adjust to their new life, they become intertwined with a group of Terran Transformers, the first robots born on Earth. Together with legendary Autobots like Optimus Prime and Bumblebee, they must confront the threat of the evil half-human/half-robot cyborg Dr. Meridian, also known as MANDROID, who poses a significant danger to their world.

Top Things to Do for the Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood

Top Things to Do for the Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood

The holiday season at Universal Studios Hollywood is a magical extravaganza that’s bound to fill your heart with joy and wonder. From November 24th to January 1st, 2024, the park transforms into a haven of enchantment with two standout celebrations: “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” and “Grinchmas.”

Step into the spellbinding world of Harry Potter at Hogsmeade Village, where twinkling lights, wreaths, and garlands create a cozy holiday atmosphere.

Sip on the famous Butterbeer while exploring charming shops, enjoying the melodies of the Frog Choir, and witnessing the breathtaking “Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,” an awe-inspiring spectacle.

But the excitement doesn’t end there! Get ready for the mischievous Grinch and the Whos at “Grinchmas Who-bilation.”

Experience the new musical performance by the Who-Bee-Doo-Wops and marvel at the iconic 65-foot Grinchmas tree during the nightly lighting ceremony and snowfall flurry.

What makes this experience unforgettable? The chance to take a piece of this magic home. Exclusive ornaments, cozy apparel, and holiday-themed items available for purchase serve as cherished mementos that encapsulate the spirit of these celebrations.

Universal CityWalk adds its own charm with vibrant decorations and a spectacular 40-foot Christmas tree adorned with countless LED lights. Indulge in seasonal treats and delightful drinks at hotspots like Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Voodoo Doughnut, elevating your holiday spirit with every bite.

These celebrations are more than events; they are moments woven with laughter, wonder, and the unique spark of holiday magic that Universal Studios Hollywood delivers year after year.

For those seeking an unparalleled holiday experience, don’t miss out on these top festivities. Join us at Universal Studios Hollywood to create memories that will last a lifetime. Unwrap the holiday magic with us this season!

Visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com for more details and embark on your own magical journey.

Team Queen Bees: CHOC Adventure In The Park 2022

Team Queen Bees: CHOC Adventure In The Park 2022

I have a lot of things to be grateful for…

CHOC Hospital has been a HUGE part of our lives. My daughter Elisha was born with a really rare chromosome abnormality (Chromosome 4q deletion), This year, we will be fundraising the CHOC Adventure in The Park for our daughter Elisha.

They say that God only gives you what you can handle, but this has definitely been a very difficult journey for my family. I don’t usually write about this on my blog, because it’s very hard for me to open up and discuss this publicly. Elisha requires 24 hour care and nursing. She is in and out of the hospital, for numerous ongoing medical issues. It’s just become part of our “norm.”

I’ve decided to finally come out of my shell, and share our story. I feel this is important because I want to show my gratitude for everything CHOC has done for Elisha.

Join me Saturday, August 27th at the 2022 CHOC Adventure in the Park. Join my team or donate to #QueenBees here.

Carlos and I were young parents, and we had no idea of the amount of medical care that Elisha would need. CHOC was there for us from the very beginning. They helped us manage her care, and get the best medical treatments available. The doctors at CHOC were very compassionate, and helped us tremendously throughout most of her childhood.

Her pediatrician, Dr. Teresa Hollander, was wonderful and was very attentive. She often called us after her office hours at home, when Elisha was sick or not feeling well. She also helped us with her transition to adulthood.

Her life expectancy was only 7, but she is now she will be 30 years old in August. I cannot say that I have done this alone. My incredible parents, familia, Dr. Hollander, and the sensational CHOC staff have been a HUGE part of her story.

This year I will walk for my daughter Elisha and my niece Jerrica!

Muchismas Gracias CHOC, we could have not done this without you!

Join me Saturday, August 27th at the 2022 CHOC Adventure in the Park. Join my team or donate to #QueenBees here.

The Deets:

In honor of the 30th anniversary of the CHOC Walk, they have reimagined the traditional 5k walk into a brand new event. This unique fundraiser will allow them to bring our community back together to celebrate our CHOC heroes for a celebration under the stars.⭐️This incredible event will take place August 27th. Learn more: #linkinbio #partner

🐻Mix In- Starting at 5 pm, CHOC supporters that raise $250+ and secure their ticket* can enter Disney California Adventure® Park to mix in with non-event Guests to enjoy the Park before the party begins.

🐻 Private Party 🎉From 9 pm – 12 am, access to Disney California Adventure® Park becomes exclusive only to CHOC supporters who have met the minimum fundraising threshold to enter the event and secured their tickets.

🐻CHOC Adventures- Enjoy exclusive experiences throughout the Park, like a special showing of World of Color, CHOC-themed photo locations, a DJ & other CHOC surprises.

🐻Incentive Packages- Fundraise to higher levels to enjoy special perks, like VIP World of Color viewing, exclusive 30th anniversary swag, Disneyland® Park entrance & more!

2019 CHOC Walk

I am grateful for you all and appreciate the love and support you have shown my family throughout the years!

~Queen Bee Latina

Paws Of Fury- The Legend of Hank Now in Theaters

Paws Of Fury- The Legend of Hank Now in Theaters

Happy summer friends…

It’s getting hot! How are you staying cool this summer? Last week, we hit Paramount Pictures in Los Angeles on a bright Sunday morning to celebrate, Paws of Fury- The Legend of Hank. This adorable new film is absolutely hilarious. It is action packed, and has arrived just in time to enjoy with your entire familia this season.

Keep cool with your family by hitting theaters July 15th!

Thank you Paramount Pictures for inviting Queen Bee Latina to the Paws of Fury premiere. All opinion are my own.

In addition to watching the film, we celebrated the movie’s debut with Paws of Fury themed treats, fun games, music, and samurai training. We are fully trained for our next brawl. Lol

The all star cast includes: Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Cera, Mel Brooks, Gabriel Iglesias, Michelle Yeoh and many more talented voice actors. We loved the writing and humor. On many occasions we shared belly laughs. I recommend this film for the entire family, since there is a little something for everyone to enjoy in it.

SYNOPSIS:

A down-on-his-luck hound Hank (Michael Cera) finds himself in a town full of cats who need a hero to defend them from a ruthless villain’s (Ricky Gervais) evil plot to wipe their village off the map.  With help from a reluctant teacher (Samuel L. Jackson) to train him, our underdog must assume the role of town samurai and team up with the villagers to save the day. The only problem… cats hate dogs! Also starring Mel Brooks, George Takei, Aasif Mandvi, Gabriel Iglesias, Djimon Hounsou, Michelle Yeoh, Kylie Kuioka, and Cathy Shim, PAWS OF FURY: THE LEGEND OF HANK pounces into theatres July 15, 2022.

Watch the official trailer here.

Clarissa and I really enjoyed this adorable film, and can’t wait to watch it again!

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW! 

PAWS OF FURY: THE LEGEND OF HANK

ONLY IN THEATRES JULY 15, 2022

paws-of-fury-party

Thank With Google

As you may know, I’m excited to be one of Google’s paid early testers for their Thank with Google pilot program. I am very grateful for your support over the years. It’s been my pleasure to serve you! Thank with Google is an experimental feature that allows you to purchase a virtual sticker and directly show your appreciation for content on my website. As a loyal supporter, you can now feel more connected and engaged because you have the ability to express yourself and share what my work means to you. Again thank you for your loyalty and support. I means the world to me.

¡Muchisimas gracias! ~Queen Bee Latina xo

Back to the Outback: Exclusive Interview With Directors Clare Knight and Harry Cripps

Back to the Outback: Exclusive Interview With Directors Clare Knight and Harry Cripps

Last week, we previewed the first half hour of Netflix’s new film, “Back to the Outback.” We also interviewed film directors, Clare Knight and Harry Cripps. This adorable new animated film is a love letter and tribute to the wildlife to Australia. Learn more and check out our exclusive interview below!

BACK TO THE OUTBACK Debuts globally on Netflix December 10

Thank you Netflix for partnering on this campaign. All opinions are my own.

Check out my full interview here!

Check out the official trailer here.

SYNOPSIS

Tired of being locked in a reptile house where humans gawk at them like they’re monsters, a ragtag group of Australia’s deadliest creatures plot a daring escape from their zoo to the Outback, a place where they’ll fit in without being judged for their scales and fangs.

Leading the group is Maddie (Isla Fisher), a poisonous snake with a heart of gold, who bands together with a self-assured Thorny Devil lizard Zoe (Miranda Tapsell), a lovelorn hairy spider Frank (Guy Pearce), and a sensitive scorpion Nigel (Angus Imrie). But when their nemesis — Pretty Boy (Tim Minchin), a cute but obnoxious koala — unexpectedly joins their escape, Maddie and the gang have no choice but to take him with them.

So begins a hair-raising and hilarious road trip across Australia, as they are pursued by a zookeeper Chaz (Eric Bana) and his adventure-seeking mini-me (Diesel La Torraca). Directed by Clare Knight and Harry Cripps, and also featuring the voices of Rachel House, Keith Urban, Celeste Barber, Wayne Knight, Lachlan Ross Power, and Jacki Weaver, BACK TO THE OUTBACK is an animated adventure that proves just because something’s different, doesn’t mean it isn’t beautiful. 


Watch this film with your entire family!

Actor Jack Dylan Grazer Talks About Fitting In. #RonsGoneWrong

Earlier this month, we took an early look at Ron’s Gone Wrong and we had the opportunity to ask the sensational cast some questions about the NEW film. Middle school can be tough, and kids want the latest in tech to show their friends they are just as cool as they are. In this exclusive interview, Jack Dylan Grazer (Barney) talks about fritting in.

*See the full transcript below.

RON’S GONE WRONG opens exclusively in theatres on October 22nd!

Rons-gone-wrong-cast

Synopsis:

Barney is a socially awkward schoolboy who receives a robot named Ron — a walking, talking, digitally connected device that’s supposed to be his best friend. Barney is excited to finally have his own robot — until his new toy starts to hilariously malfunction, drawing the attention of a shady executive who wants to protect his company’s stock price at all costs.

EDITH BOWMAN:

Great. Thank you. This takes us to Jack, from Angela, who’s Queen Bee Latina, “My son, who’s in junior high, absolutely loved this film and found it super relatable. Jack, is there a message? What message do you have for kids that struggle to fit in? I guess, are going through the same sort of things that Barney is going through?


JACK DYLAN GRAZER:
I mean, who am I to give advice? I still don’t fit in. So I think well, firstly, I think the reason
that I said yes, because I wanted to, but I really related to Barney. I had just finished middle
school, which was like the worst time of my entire life. Most awkward stage of my entire life.
And when I found Barney, I was like, Oh my god, yeah, I could pull that off. I did that for
three years. I could do that again for five more years. And I had a blast.


ED HELMS:
It never ends.


JACK DYLAN GRAZER:
We’re starting the sequel next week, too. So what advice? I guess, just know who you are at
every age and the biggest thing, the most general way to say it is, just incorporate self-love
and know your self-worth. And know your value, know how valuable you are, know how valid
and valued you are. I think that’s super crucial. That’s crucial, especially because I mean, I
think Kylie touched on this, which was like, there’s so many pressures on social media. And
the funny thing about it is that, I know that I grew up with it. 75 year old Zach didn’t. So I
mean, it’s a big part of my life for business and for everything. So the freaky thing about it is
that is advertised as the greatest way of making friends ever. But yet again, it’s the most
toxic playground where you’ll get fed the most judgement you’ll ever see in your life. And it’s
a toxic place to grow up. I think. So, the greatest thing I think is you should know who you

are and stay grounded.

WATCH OFFICIAL TRAILER HERE:

  • DIRECTED BY Sarah Smith, Jean-Philippe Vine
  • WRITTEN BY Peter Baynham, Sarah Smith
  • PRODUCED BY Julie Lockhart, Lara Breay
  • CASTZach Galifianakis, Jack Dylan Grazer, Olivia Colman, Ed Helms, Justice Smith, Rob Delaney, Kylie Cantrall, Ricardo Hurtado, Marcus Scribner, Thomas Barbusca

Knott’s Berry Farm Reopens and Celebrates 100 Years

Oh how we have missed you Knott’s Berry Farm!

It’s been over a year since we have visited one of our favorite theme parks… Knott’s in Buena Park has reopened with a bang, as it celebrates 100 years of boysenberry magi!

The anniversary celebration runs through September 6, 2021. In accordance with current state guidelines, capacity will be limited and available to California residents only with reservations required for both single-day visits and Season Passholders.

Disclosure: Thank you Knott’s Berry Farm for inviting us to celebrate a 100 years with you. All opinions are own.

We were thrilled to be part of this historic event!

Knott’s Berry Farm, commemorates its 100-year anniversary with a grand summer-long anniversary celebration paying tribute to the Knott family’s rich history and legacy of family fun for all. 

Many of my best childhood memories were spent at Knott’s, and I often feel nostalgia when I visit.

This unique anniversary celebration features festive park décor, themed food items, unique entertainment, exclusive merchandise, and special surprises along the way…

We all gathered at Calico Mine stage for a welcome home celebration, and to enjoy a kick-off ceremony with special announcements and guests.

An All-New 4-D Interactive Dark Ride — Now Open!

Knott’s Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair” takes guests on an exciting journey through reimagined show scenes from the original dark ride, including the Boysenberry Pie Factory, Frog Forest, Fortune Teller Camp, Thunder Cave, and Weird Woods, culminating in a celebration at the County Fair.

The rides, food, music and summer nights at Knott’s are like no other. That’s why we love and enjoy it every time we visit.

It was so wonderful to reunite with our Knott’s family and friends. Don’t miss out on this one in a lifetime celebration! Now through September 6th.

Happy Anniversary Knott’s Berry Farm! We love you...

The Sleepover Is Now Streaming on Netflix

Written by: Victoria Eliana Camacho

Are you looking for a fun family adventure to enjoy with your whole family?

Netflix has done it again!  I screened the new film, “The Sleepover” had me laughing out loud the whole time with this silly, but heart-warming story of a family and friends. They team up to defeat some bad guys. Also, I have to mention that hunky Joe Manganiello is in it, so this movie definitely has something for everyone to enjoy! 

I have partnered with Netflix for this film. All opinions are my own.

Last Wednesday, I had the opportunity to meet the cast on an online Zoom meeting, and they were definitely a fun and lively group! 

Synopsis

In this family adventure-comedy, Clancy (Sadie Stanley) and her kid brother Kevin (Maxwell Simkins) discover that their seemingly normal stay-at-home mom Margot (Malin Åkerman) is actually a former high-end thief in the witness protection program. When both their mom and dad (Ken Marino) are kidnapped and forced to pull one last job with an ex-flame of Margot’s (Joe Manganiello), the siblings must team up to rescue their parents over the course of one action-packed night that they’ll never forget.​The Sleepover​is directed by Trish Sie (P​itchPerfect3​).

 Each actor’s character brought something unique to the film in their own fun way, so I was able to ask them how they related to their character and this is what they had to say:

Listen to the Audio Below!

Netflix has created some fun activities below – feel free to enjoy them with your kids, and your entire family.

Activity Sheets:

Bingo Card

Crossword Puzzle 

Secret Life of Parents Quiz

The Ultimate Sleepover Checklist 

Now Streaming 

Bingo Card 

Crossword Puzzle 

Secret Life of Parents Quiz

The Ultimate Sleepover Checklist 

This movie is probably one of my new  Netflix favorites. 

This Movie is NOW available on Netflix, so it’s a good movie for your next family movie night!!