AN AMERICAN IN PARIS- The Musical is coming to the Segerstrom Center for the Arts starting April 25th and runs through May 7, 2017. We are thrilled that we will be attending the media preview!
AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is the new Tony Award®-winning musical about an American soldier, a mysterious French girl and an indomitable European city, each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of war.
Acclaimed director/choreographer and 2015 Tony Award®-winner Christopher Wheeldon brings the magic and romance of Paris into perfect harmony with unforgettable songs from George and Ira Gershwin in the show that earned more awards than any other musical in the 2014/15 season.
“An American in Paris is a triumph! Pure joy!” – New York Times
“Once you’ve seen it, you’ll find it hard to settle for less ever again.” – The Wall Street Journal
Running time (approximate): 2 hours and 33 minutes
Disclosure: We will receive tickets for reviewing purposes. All opinions are our own. Images are copyrighted and used with permission.
AN AMERICAN IN PARIS – THE MUSICAL
April 25th to May 7th
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA
(714) 556-2787
SCFTA.org
On April 21st Earth Day, Disneynature will release their new documentary, Born In China. The best film makers and cinematographers in the world, have collaborated on a film that follows three animal families and other rare species. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to screen this film before its release date. This extraordinary new film will definitely capture the hearts of animal lovers from around the world.
Born in China is directed by accomplished Chinese filmmaker Lu Chuan, and produced by Disney’s Roy Conli and renowned nature filmmakers Brian Leith and Phil Chapman.
Thank you Disneynature for inviting me to screen “Born In China.” All opinions are my own.
Photo credit to Disneynature
Movies can move us in many ways. They can inspire us, motivate us, and encourage us. Disneynature has created a film, that will have a long-lasting impact and will surely become a family favorite….
This sensational film has stunning cinematography and navigates through a vast terrain, from the frigid mountains to the heart of the bamboo forest, on the wings of a red-crowned crane, seamlessly tying the extraordinary tales together.
Disney is the master of storytelling. Narrator John Krasinski, tells this story in a way that is endearing and easy for children to understand.
Disneynature, in its ongoing quest to bring the natural world to the big screen as never before, presents its most ambitious project to date, taking moviegoers on a grand journey into the wilds of China. “Born In China” follows the adventures of three animal families — the majestic panda, the savvy golden monkey, and the elusive snow leopard. As you watch this film, these beautiful creatures are followed and filmed during the Winter, Spring, and Fall seasons. These animals face harsh weather conditions and scarcity of food.
Meet the Animals
Photo credit to Disneynature
Once YaYa has completed her morning chores, she returns to focus on her adorable newborn daughter, MeiMei. This film highlights the relationship between mom and cub, but also showcases the family dynamics between the father and siblings.
Photo credit to Disneynature
Say hello to Tao Tao!
Monkeys have long been seen as figures of rebellion and mischief in Chinese folk tales. And one of the most mischievous monkeys on this mountain is TaoTao. This adorable two year old is has a huge personality. I laughed when this little one was up to no good with his friends, “The Lost Boys.”
It was so sweet to see his family united and protecting one another. They often worked together to survive.
Photo credit to Disneynature
And finally, meet Dawa a strong protective Mama. She and her cubs fight to survive in extreme weather conditions. As I watched this film, there were many heart wrenching moments that moved me.
I was truly captivated by this film. I left wondering what the fate of these animals would be… After watching this film, I have a greater appreciation for wildlife. This documentary was both educational and inspirational. This film is rated G and is wonderful for the entire family.
During Born In China’s opening week (April 21-27, 2017) film proceeds will benefit the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Based on opening-week attendance, Disneynature, via the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund, will make a contribution to the WWF to help protect wild pandas and snow leopards in China.
I love scary spine-chilling films that keep me on the edge of my seat. Earlier this month, I screened a new upcoming Warner Bros. movie called, “Unforgettable.” This new seductive thriller screams sex, lies, and insanity… My kind of movie!
Thank you Warner Bros. for inviting me to screen this film. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis:
Katherine Heigl stars as Tessa Connover, who is barely coping with the end of her marriage when her ex-husband, David (Geoff Stults), becomes happily engaged to Julia Banks (Dawson)-not only bringing Julia into the home they once shared but also into the life of their daughter, Lilly (Isabella Rice). Trying to settle into her new role as a wife and a stepmother, Julia believes she has finally met the man of her dreams, the man who can help her put her own troubled past behind her. But Tessa’s jealousy soon takes a pathological turn until she will stop at nothing to turn Julia’s dream into her ultimate nightmare.
Julia Banks (Rosario Dawson) is happily engaged to David (Geoff Stults). This optimistic bright eyed woman, leaves her past behind for a new start, in a new town.
Dawson is sexy and fierce and in her role as Julia. There are many twists in turns in this movie that kept me intrigued while screening this film…
Photo credit to Karen Ballard- Warner Bros
What secrets does Julia hold in her past that can jeopardize her future with David?
You have to watch this movie to find out!
Photo credit to Karen Ballard- Warner Bros.
I cringed when Tessa (Heigl) made unbearable twisted B*#@TCH moves on Julia, David’s bride to be….
Katherine Heigl brilliantly executed the role of Tessa, a narcissistic bitter ex wife, with MAJOR control issues.
Photo credit to Karen Ballard- Warner Bros.
A mother’s bond with her child is like no other. So when Tessa has to leave her daughter with her ex hubby and his fiancé, she takes “CRAZY” to entirely whole new level…
Photo credit to Karen Ballard- Warner Bros.
Isabella Kai Rice who stars as sweet Lily, is caught in the middle of this stressful family feud.
Rice perfectly portrayed the role of a broken and conflicted child.
Photo credit to Karen Ballard- Warner Bros.
This movie was suspenseful, insane, and a powerful portrayal of jealousy gone mad…..
Move over Glenn Close (Fatal Attraction), there is a new “Femme Fatale” in town!
Unforgettable is a MUST SEE! Go see it in theaters April 21st.
The City of New Orleans is a colorful, festive, and one of my favorite places to visit in the South. The food is unique, and has distinct flavors that are forever embedded in my memory book. After traveling and eating my way through “The Big Easy,” I have a whole new level of appreciation for Cajun cuisine. I was thrilled to discover that I don’t have travel far for the authentic flavors of the South. Reel Cajun Restaurant & Bar is now open in Garden Grove….
This month, I hit up this awesome spot with my foodie pals. We were blown away by the fresh selection of crawfish, crab, shrimp, and fish. Everything on menu was OMG delicious. This little hole in the wall is a Cajun food gem!
Thank you Reel Cajun Restaurant & Bar for inviting me to try your Southern Cajun Cuisine. All opinions are on my own.
Reel Cajun is casual and kid friendly…
Score! I love places like this where I can unwind, eat good food, and enjoy a cold beer.
The menu has a variety tasty options and the prices are reasonable.
My favorite items on the menu were the garlic noodles with kielbasa and shrimp, boudin balls, and the crawfish. The cajun fries were also delicious..
Don’t forget the yummy sauces to dip everything in!
Dipping Sauces:
Creole Mustard
House Sauce
Crawfish Dip
Tarter Sauce
Spicy Ranch
Spicy Remoulade
The flavors at Reel Cajun are bold and authentic. The Gumbo was delish and had just the right amount of spice….
The Shrimp Brochette was wrapped bacon, and filled with jalapeños, mozzarella cheese, and served with cajun fries- SO GOOD!
The service was great and the staff was friendly…If you are in the Garden Grove area, this is a great spot to eat. Check out their Facebook page for daily specials..
I grew up shopping at Northgate Market, and I have watched the store evolve over that last couple of years. Some of my fondest childhood memories include going to the mercado (grocery store) with my mama on Sunday morning, to pick up the ingredients for our family meal. Northgate Gonzalez Market’s opened its newest flagship store in the City of La Habra. Let me tell you, these new stores keep getting bigger and better…
My mom’s kitchen always smells heavenly… Food is very important to my family. Our large gatherings are always centered around good food. Much like Northgate Market, our family recipes have evolved. My Papa makes yummy nopalitos (cactus), my sister Yolanda makes a great Lasagna, and my brother Ernie makes incredible fried noodles. Our family’s cuisine has become somewhat international.
It’s impossible to please everyone and my kiddos are also picky eaters. I used to shop at five different markets to get what I need, but now I don’t have to. The new Northgate Market in La Habra is GINORMOUS and has everything I need, including international products!
Please note that this is a sponsored post. Thank you Gigasavvy for inviting to the grand opening of the Northgate Market in La Habra. Rest assured, that all opinions and gushing enthusiasm are my own.
At the Grand Opening, customers stood in line since 4:30am to get a glimpse of the new store. It was awesome to see the customers dance to “El Mariachi Loco.”
I made my first stop at “La Barra” to get my coffee fix. (One of my favorite things to do) Aguas frescas, teas, and fresh juices are also served at the bar.
You can also get wheat grass shots here…
The produce is so fresh and organic products are available…
This is new!
I made my way to check out the new “Dulceria” (candy shop). The spicy tamarindo reminded me of my abuelo’s little candy store in Mexico.
The variety meats and mariscos (seafood) is colorful and fresh. They also have grass fed meats.
The ceviche bar had an array of delicious options (at least 10) Why cook it all from scratch, when you can count on the freshest ingredients and high quality food at Northgate Markets?
Don’t want to clean up? If you are planning to visit the new Northgate Market, you can relax and enjoy authentic hispanic food. You will find a fresh salad bar, pupusería, menudo, posole, fresh tortillas, and so much more! ( I love this)
Wait they have sushi too?! I think I won the lotto…. I found two sushi chefs preparing some fresh sushi. I was stunned.
I love the warm Conchas ( in the picture shown above) from the panaderia (bakery) in the morning. The bakery is loaded with my favorite carbs. (includes more than 100 new artisan breads, cakes, and cookies made fresh daily)
It’s comforting to know I can find my traditional Mexican products at Northgate Market, but it’s also exciting to see all the new food trends there too!
The new super-sized Northgate Market in La Habra is my favorite store to visit and shop at because they have everything I am looking for and then some! I also frequently visit the Northgate Market on 17th St, in Santa Ana and the Northgate Market on Lincoln in Anaheim.
My family has Smurf fever and we could not be more excited about the new movie release of Smurfs: The Lost Village. I grew up watching the cartoon in the 80’s, so this new one brings on a bit of nostalgia for me.
In this fully animated, all-new take on the Smurfs, a mysterious map sets Smurfette and her best friends Brainy, Clumsy and Hefty on an exciting and thrilling race through the Forbidden Forest filled with magical creatures to find a mysterious lost village before the evil wizard Gargamel does. Embarking on a rollercoaster journey full of action and danger, the Smurfs are on a course that leads to the discovery of the biggest secret in Smurf history.
The Sony Pictures Animation team continues to create films that have a long-lasting impact, quickly becoming family favorites.
Thank you Sony for inviting me to the Smurfs: The Lost Village Movie Junket and Premiere. All opinions are my own.
It was so awesome meeting the actors: Demi Lovato (Smurfette), Ariel Winter (Smurf Lily), Joe Manganiello (Hefty), and Jack McBrayer (Clumsy Smurf) at the press junket in Beverly Hills. Director Kelly Asbury was also in attendance. He stars as Nosey Smurf in this new film.
The all star cast is sensational! Michelle Rodriguez (SmurfStorm), Ellie Kemper (SmurfBlossom), and Julia Roberts (SmurfWillow) are all residents of the title’s Lost Village. Special voice cameos to include: Gordon Ramsay (Baker), Gabriel Iglesias (Jokey), Tituss Burgess (Vanity), Jeff Dunham (Farmer), and Jake Johnson (Grouchy).
In my interview, Demi Lavato said, ” My favorite thing about playing Smurfette, is the female empowerment aspect of this role. And I think it’s very convenient with timing of where we are at in the world today. So that was very exciting for me… And being able to play a courageous brave young female who sets out on this adventure to find out more about herself, is I think encouraging and something that is inspirational for younger woman.”
The following family headed to the premiere in Culver City, California. There was games, music, crafts, and Smurfy blue food.
Everyone joined in on the fun at the Smurfs celebration.
Celebs also made made appearances at the premiere. Glozell looked smurfy from head to toe too! Shaley Scott sings “You Will Always Find Me in Your Heart” in the new film...
We had a Smurftacular day at the premiere! Go see Smurfs: The Lost Village in theaters April 7th!
Have you been toBubblefest at the Discovery Cube OC? If not you should!
My family attended the Bubblefest exhibit at the Discovery Cube for the first time, and we were LITERALLY blown away by a gazillion bubbles… This interactive and educational exhibit is absolutely incredible!
Thank you Discovery Cube OC for inviting my family to Bubblefest. All Opinions are my own.
Bubblefest at Discovery Cube OC
There is so much to do at Bubblefest:
Mega Bubblefest Lazer Show- A MUST-SEE!
Water Pheres- (My son absolutely loved this)
Bubble Courtyard
Cube Jr. Playground
Me in a Bubble (additional Charge)
Bubble Zone
Visit Discovery Cube between now and April 16, 2017 for Bubblefest XXI – an indoor festival combining bubble artistry, real science, and spellbinding lasers for the whole family. This year’s Bubblefest features performances by bubble artist Deni Yang in the Mega Bubblefest Laser Show. The world-famous performance artist leads a viscous variety stage show, which combines music, lasers, lighting effects, and bubble artistry to create a spectacular experience for all ages! Inside the Bubble Zone, visitors will get to create their own bubble art with wands, participate in science demonstrations, roll around in water spheres and so much more!
Deni Yang’s Mega Bubblefest Laser show is spectacular and mesmerizing! He has been performing since the wee age of 3.
My son was thrilled when Deni Yang picked him to participate on stage… “Mom, that was so cool!” He’s begging me to take him again…
Deni’s family holds multiple Guinness World Records, including most people in a bubble and longest continuous bubble.
Bubblefest is bubble heaven!
Little ones love blowing their own bubbles too…
This hands-on exhibit has been the most popular attraction at the Discovery Cube for two decades… And now I know why.
If you are looking for a fun activity do with your kids during Spring break, take them to Bubblefest!
When I heard Marc Webb was directing a new film called Gifted, I immediately knew it was a must see. My girls and I are huge fans of his work (500 Days of Summer & The Amazing Spider-man), and we were thrilled to have the opportunity to screen it. I also made my way to Beverly Hills to interview the cast of this wonderful film.
Disclosure: This post was sponsored by the Role Mommy Writer’s Network. All opinions are my own.
Photo credit to Fox Searchlight Pictures
Marc Webb has delivered another masterpiece, and it’s no surprise….
Frank Adler (Chris Evans) is a single man raising a child prodigy – his spirited young niece Mary (Mckenna Grace) – in a coastal town in Florida. Frank’s plans for a normal school life for Mary are foiled when the seven-year-old’s mathematical abilities come to the attention of Frank’s formidable mother Evelyn (Lindsay Duncan) whose plans for her granddaughter threaten to separate Frank and Mary. Octavia Spencer plays Roberta, Frank and Mary’s landlady and best friend. Jenny Slate is Mary’s teacher, Bonnie, a young woman whose concern for her student develops into a connection with her uncle as well.
This comedy-drama manages to be both funny and moving. This film took my family on an unexpected emotional journey. On several occasions, we laughed and cried.
Photo credit to Fox Searchlight Pictures
This unconventional family goes through a heart wrenching custody battle with Mary’s maternal grandmother Evelyn, (Lindsay Duncan). Frank’s mother wants Mary to attend an elite school for the gifted. Frank on the other hand, wants his niece to have balance and live a normal life.
Webb’s cast is sensational… These two costars had an adorable bond on and off screen. They giggled when they talked about their behind the scenes shenanigans.
McKenna Grace said, “One of the funnest scenes for me was whenever me and Octavia were singing and dancing in her house.” She was very smart, sweet, and spunky! (much like her on-screen character).
Mary’s teacher, Bonnie (Jenny Slate) becomes deeply concerned for Mary and Frank. Jenny Slate is appealing in her role. She eventually finds herself drawn to her student’s hunky guardian Frank.
(Octavia Spencer) Frank and Mary’s neighbor helps raise Mary (McKenna Grace). She is kind hearted and funny. (love her)
Octavia expressed why she was inclined to take this role. “I really loved this beautiful story about an unconventional family surrounding this brilliant little girl.”
There is a lot of heart in this unique story, and the performances in this film are terrific.
Chris Evens said, ” I think the theme in this film is kind of rooted in parents that can be overbearing. That kind of in some degree, live vicariously through their children, and the rebellion that can happen as result of that dynamic.” This superhero brilliantly executed this role as a father.
As a mother, I found this movie to be very endearing and it also had a very profound message. I truly loved this film and think you will too!
“Sugar. Spice. And everything nice. These were the ingredients chosen to create the perfect little girls. But Professor Utonium accidentally added an extra ingredient to the concoction… Chemical X. Thus the Powerpuff Girls were born. Using their ultra-superpowers, Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup have dedicated their lives to fighting crime and the forces of evil.”
Hulu and Creators Media hosted a fun filled afternoon in Santa Monica, California. The celebration included interactive workshops, inspiring talks, and awesome activities all centered around the celebration of girl empowerment. My cousins and I were ecstatic because we got to be “Real Life Powerpuff Girls” for a day.. I know I am a bit older than the girls, but I didn’t want to miss out on the fun!
The workshops included a Science Station, Dance Instruction, and Art Class. I grew up watching the Powerpuff girls and I learned many life lessons. It taught me to feel empowered and aspire to be a leader in my community.
Thank you Hulu for inviting us to be “Real Life Powerpuff Girls for a day. All opinions are my own.
The Powerpuff Girls centers on three sugar-coated superheroes, whose missions in life alternate between going to school, fighting crime, winning at hopscotch and saving the world before bedtime. The girls are frequently called upon by the town’s childlike and naive mayor to help fight nearby criminals using their powers.
You can now stream The Powerpuff Girls anytime on Hulu!
My little cousins are so darn cute. They learned how to make miniature rocket ships. They were restless for knowledge and asked lots of questions. I could see the wheels in their brains spinning. Their eyes light up while working on the experiment.
The girls also became animators for a day and learned how to draw Bubbles. They were at ease and expressed themselves freely. Within a short time, the girls all become friends. They empowered and complimented each other.
The girls danced to empowering music. They laughed and sang along to the tunes. and “iconically whipped”(dance move). Was it a dance party or a laugh fest? Perhaps it was both.
The girls were introduced to “Real Life Superheroes.” They heard from three inspiring young girls. One was a vegan and animal rights activist, another an entrepreneur, and the third was a Jujitsu Master. They told their stories and talked about the hardships they faced.
Bubbles, Buttercup, and Blossom are truly iconic for young girls. They made a big impact in my life growing up. These three superheroes embody individuality, confidence, kind hearts, and power… I love this!
We had an awesome day at the Powerpuff Girls event. The girls were one in heart and mind. We all felt what it was like to be a real life superhero for a day, and it was amazing!
My aunt says that as soon as my little cousins got home, they watched a marathon of The Powerpuff Girls on Hulu. Sol was so excited she drew this!
Don’t forget to watch The Powerpuff Girls on Hulu!
Brazil is known for their dreamy beaches, warm people, and amazing cuisine. This is why it is so easy to fall in love with the culture. Much like the Brazilians, my family loves to surround themselves with good food and good conversation.
This month my family dined at Fogo De Chão to try a full “Churrasco Experience.” A churrascaria is a restaurant that serves grilled meat, and offers as much as one can eat. The waiters move around the restaurant with the skewers, slicing meat onto the guest’s plate. This serving style is called espeto corrido or rodízio. This is popular in Brazil.
Thank you Fogo De Chão for inviting me to try your Brazilian Cuisine. All opinions are my own.
CAUTION: The following images may cause drooling.
The fresh Market Bar showcased a colorful variety of food choices such as: crisp salads, fruit, cheese, smoked salmon, meats, and much more….
Everything was so fresh and delicious… The restaurant is located in the heart of Beverly Hills, California. This spot offers an incredible city vibe that cannot be beat.. In particular, I enjoyed the selection of cheeses. Who wouldn’t love delicious small plates, while sipping on a Brazilian crafted cocktail like the Fogo Premium Caipirinha? (Fogo Premium Aged Cachaça fresh muddled limes, cane sugar)
The salads are fresh and seasonal.
The choices were endless and there is a little something for everyone.
How To Go Fogo
Each guest’s plate is a creation of his or her own, so feel free to mix your favorite meats, sides and selections from the Market Table as you wish. There’s no wrong way to enjoy Brazilian cuisine.
Seafood options are available for my pescatarian friends…. This Mango Chilean Sea Bass was served with fresh homemade mango relish, and malagueta pepper sauce, atop delicious asparagus spears.
Brazilians love food and it shows. The choices on the menu at Fogo De Chão will make you forget that you are in the U.S.
The meats were seasoned just right and cooked to perfection…
My picky eater was happy to sink his teeth into this delicious chicken. There are so many options that make Fogo De Chão the perfect spot for big families. They offer many packages and deals to choose from.
After you eat as much as your heart desires, make room for the Caramelized Pineapple dessert. This warm pineapple is caramelized with a sugar coating, served à la mode, and drizzled with caramel.
Fogo De Chão made us feel like royalty and like family at the same time. If you want a taste of Brazilian heaven, you need to eat here….
The variety meats and mariscos (seafood) is colorful and fresh. They also have grass fed meats.
The following family headed to the premiere in Culver City, California. There was games, music, crafts, and Smurfy blue food.
Shaley Scott sings “You Will Always Find Me in Your Heart” in the new 
