Second Act Movie Review and Interview- In Theaters December 21st

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Charlyne Yi, Alan Aisenberg, Jennifer Lopez, and Annaleigh Ashford star in SECOND ACT.

Have you ever thought about reinventing yourself?


So apparently the 40s are the new 30s? Well I don’t know about that, but I do know that I have a huge bucket list that is yet to be fulfilled. After numerous career changes, I have found that it is not impossible to start over. In fact, it can be fun. My life has taken unexpected turns, and it has led me to new adventures.

Last week, I met with Jennifer Lopez, her bestie Leah Remini, and Director Peter Segal at the Four Seasons in Beverly Hills, to ask some big questions about their new upcoming film, Second Act.

Thank you STX Entertainment for inviting me to screen , interview the cast, and the director of Second Act. All opinions are my own.

This romantic feel good movie is just adorable. Watch the trailer!

About Second Act

Second Act is a comedy in the vein of Working Girl and Maid In Manhattan. Jennifer Lopez stars as Maya, a 40-year-old woman struggling with frustrations from unfulfilled dreams. Until, that is, she gets the chance to prove to Madison Avenue that street smarts are as valuable as book smarts, and that it is never too late for a Second Act.

After 15 years at Value Shop ,the past six as assistant manager, she’s ready to run the big box store in Queens. Her resumé doesn’t scream upper management, but her track record sure does. She’s an innovator who listens to customers, knows what they need and finds a way to deliver. But Value Shop hires “the right man for the job” –a man with an MBA–not GED-certified Maya. Maya’s boyfriend Trey (MILO VENTIMIGLIA) and best friend Joan (LEAH REMINI) try to boost her spirits, but Maya is frustrated as once again street smarts doesn’t equal book smarts. Was her entire future determined when she was 16, or can she actually reinvent herself in her 40’s?

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I love working with women who are always upbeat and always reinventing themselves. This movie is both inspirational and relatable.

Leah Remini and Jennifer Lopez star in SECOND ACT.

Watching Jennifer Lopez and her bestie Remini on and off screen is hilarious. I loved watching them together in the film. You can tell some of the scenes were improvised, which made it much more entertaining.

In our interview Jennifer Lopez said, “I’m a romantic.  I don’t know if you’ve heard [LAUGHS ]at heart.   I’m a romantic at heart and there’s just something about this genre that it’s like real life to me.  I know some people like the drama , the reality and the grittiness and I like that too.  I love being in movies like that but there’s something that speaks to my soul about this.  Life is funny and  Shish***  happens and in romantic comedies you really get to see somebody break through a really deep fear usually that they have inside.  I’ve struggle with that in my lie and everybody does and it’s so relatable.  I love these and I love the comedy part of them.  That’s why it was so great to do this with Leah, who is one of my best friends.  How many times have we been sitting and talking about something, got angry with each other, started crying  and then make a joke…all in the same moment.  That’s what these movies are like and that’s what I love about them because that’s what life really is.”

Jennifer Lopez and Vanessa Hudgens star in SECOND ACT.

Director Peter Segal said, “To balance drama with comedy is not easy.  I’ve done all sorts of comedies.  I’ve done joke book comedies with Naked Gun and this has more heart and gravitas.  There’s a story.  A story we can’t really advertise because there’s a bit of a twist. In that…there’s a lot of serious stuff and to be able to do that and then turn around and make you laugh…there are not a lot of people who can do that and I had two.”

There were many unexpected surprises in the film. There is also some tender moments that led me to shed some tears. (take tissues to the movies just in case! )

Jennifer Lopez and Milo Ventimiglia star in SECOND ACT.

This romantic comedy is great for a girls night or date night!

It’s never too late to start over, and we can all have a Second Act, third, or even fourth… Second Act hits theaters December 21st!

Smallfoot Movie Review & Interview with Channing Tatum, Rapper Common, and Director Karey Kirkpatrick

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Earlier this month I screened Warner Bros Picture’s new film Smallfoot, and interviewed actor Channing Tatum, Rapper Common, and Director Karey Kirkpatrick to get the insider scoop on the new film. This adorable new film is a MUST-SEE and hits theaters September 28th!

 Warner Bros Sponsored Post: Thank you Warner Bros Pictures for inviting me to screen and interview the cast and director of Smallfoot.smallfoot-warnerbros-review

Synopsis

A Yeti named Migo stirs up his community when he discovers something that he didn’t know existed — a human.

In my interview, Actor Channing Tatum talked about his role as Migo… 

Question: “With saying that, what would you all say was your favorite thing about the characters that you portrayed? What’s, like, some favorite characteristics?”

Channing Tatum: “Migo is just a believer, you know? He’s a believer and he’s truthful probably first, and that’s why I

think, you know, he was kind of the perfect person to have–kind of have to go on this journey and to be kind of tasked with this–really it’s a–it was a scary thing. I mean, he thought his world was perfect.

And it’s easy to know that change needs to happen if things aren’t good. But, in his mind, things were literally perfect, and he didn’t want anything to change.

And when all of a sudden something comes into his world that completely knocks out a pillar of truth in his life, everything is questionable now. Like, everything is just on thin ice and you don’t know if anything is real.

And I think it takes a really strong person and a really, you know, kind of brave–a brave person to just, you know, sort of go out past the breakers and see what’s out there, and he does that. I think to–I think he respects, like, the stone keeper and his father so much because of the way they raised him and what they represent.

That’s why it was the hardest thing in the world to, like, say–just go against him. And–but it was–they raised him well because he did–he still spoke his truth. I mean, he didn’t lie just to stay out of trouble.”

Rap Star Common talked about the message he felt was the takeaway for moviegoers…

Common: “So, I think the–finding the truth, and speaking that truth, and believing in that truth, and not being afraid to share that truth is, I think, one of the great messages we have in this movie.”

Director Karey Kirkpatrick talked about how the film evolved during the six year project, and the impact that he hoped it would have on the audience…

Karey Kirkpatrick: And in particular, when doing family entertainment, I do believe that–you know, most of us go to the movies to be entertained, and I–I think we go to be entertained and what we hope that within that entertainment is that we are emotionally engaged and moved at some point.

But, I think kids, whether they know it or not, they go to movies to learn how to live their life. They go to watch other characters navigate difficult situations and resolve conflicts. And they use that, sometimes for good or bad, to figure out how to navigate their own relationships.

And so, I think–I take that really seriously that kids do that. It’s why they go watch the ones that work over and over and over again. Because I don’t think they’re just watching it because it’s pretty.

I think they are watching it because there are some kid fears, and some really deep things that are happening that they live through these characters as they watch them resolve conflict and grapple with issues. And I know that this movie sort of sneaks up on people at some point, and it’s like, oh, wait, this is about maybe some heavy things that are going on in the world.

And it is dealing with truth, and what is truth, and it’s dealing with authority and isolationism, and it’s dealing with–in a weird way–immigrants and the other and borders and all of these things that are in the world. But, it’s also dealing with–if you think about the world that kids live in, you know, kids live in a totalitarian world with parents and schools where, you know, you’re hearing, “because I said so”, or “as long as you live under my roof”.

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This new film has a powerful message, and talks about the importance of standing up for the truth and what you believe in. It also talks about current underlying issues like immigration, isolation, and questioning what we are told be be “facts.” Most importantly, being open to others that our different than us.

As a mother, I think this is an incredible message for our children. I truly loved this film, and recommend it for the entire family. I found myself laughing hysterically during many parts of the film.

My favorite part of the film is when Migo, discovers “smallfoot” and wants to prove to his village that they do exist. No more spoilers I promise!

The music in the film is entertaining, and it was a treat to hear Common rap some fun lyrics!

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Yeti or not Small foot is hitting theaters September 28th! 

Get your #SMALLFOOT, get your tickets here http://bit.ly/SMALLFOOTTix

Romantic Getaway at the W Hotel in Punta De Mita

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Photo Credit to Ciaran Blumenfeld

The W Hotel Punta de Mita, is a hidden gem in Nayarit Mexico. For our 21st wedding anniversary, Carlos and I decided to go on a romantic adventure without our kids to celebrate our special day. This secluded oasis was the perfect spot for us to disconnect, rejuvenate, and escape from our hectic lives.

The easy flight was 3 1/2 hours out of LAX. We were thrilled to get in some alone time and catch up.

Thank you W Hotel Punta De Mita and Riviera Nayarit for hosting us at your gorgeous hotel. All opinions are my own.

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Our first order of business was to soak up the sun, order ceviche, and a cool drink. We immediately noticed this beach front property was very private and quiet…

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We strolled on the sand, and listened to the crashing ocean waves. The sky was painted a bright salmon, pink, gray, and deep blue… It was both surreal and calming.

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About W Punta De Mita 

Eclectic design as colorful as the lush Mexican coastline, W Punta de Mita’s is a celebration of the region’s rich history. Surf fun waves in crystal clear water then kick back with a cocktail and some ceviche.

This unique hotel offers customized experiences for their guests.

HUICHOL-INSPIRED STYLE MEETS SURF CULTURE

The Hotel Accommodations 

The hotel rooms are quirky and decorated with vibrant colors.

At night the jungle comes ALIVE! We could hear the birds chirping, frogs croaking, the Chachalas (exotic birds) loud screeching, and other unusual noises.

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The hotel had many unique design and architectural elements. I walked on this elaborate tile tapestry that began at the hotel reception and led me to the the ocean…

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There is color and art everywhere at the W Hotel Punta De Mita. Our private patio was the perfect place to hangout and relax with Frida Khalo.

The W Hotel’s passion points are:

Fashion

Fuel (energy)

Design

Music

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The staff was very thoughtful and attentive. A delicious assortment of chocolates was delivered to our hotel room for our anniversary.

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The AWAY Spa is perfect for detox, retox, and repeat… Oh and there is a full bar in the spa too!

It was so nice to get in a little me time. I sipped on tea, and enjoyed the hidden spa on the property. My 60 minute Escape facial was sooo incredible and relaxing.

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Ahhh… Shift into full vacation mode at AWAY Spa, where a tranquil jungle setting, holistic amenities, customized spa therapies, and beauty treatments will leave your body nourished and looking its best for whatever comes next.

Services, Treatments and Amenities

  • Body scrub
  • Body wrap
  • Couple’s Massage
  • Facials
  • Fitness classes available
  • Hair & scalp treatments
  • Makeup Services
  • Manicures/pedicures
  • Massages
  • Plunge pools
  • Separate Men’s & Women’s Lounges
  • Steam room

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The service at the W Punta De Mita was exceptional, and surpassed our overall expectations. I can’t wait to return for another adventure!

Stay tuned for my next post! I will show you the DELICIOUS food options at the hotel…

Book Review: The ASSERTIVE Parent Hacks, Traps, & Strategies For Raising Authentic Teens

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Parenting is difficult. Things have changed so much over the years. Now with social media on the rise, there is so much as parents we need to be aware of. Author Daniel Patterson has come to the rescue, and has written “The Assertive Parent.”

As a parent, NOTHING shocks me anymore. I have heard and seen it all…

I never thought I would sound like my mother, and frankly I never wanted to. I always thought she was overbearing and over the top. But I now have a greater appreciation for my parents and their concerns while I was growing up.  I have 4 children and I have witnessed 2 of my girls go through some extremely difficult times during their high school years. I have FINALLY found a resource to keep me up on the times. I have a son that is on his way to teenage years, and I now feel like I have the tools to navigate the storm.

Thank you Daniel Patterson for writing this book. All opinions are my own.

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This book covers many important topics such as:

  • Social media awareness
  • Drugs and alcohol awareness
  • Proactive & consistent parenting
  • School & academics

This incredible book is also interactive and provides helpful checklists to help parents categorize their thoughts and concerns. It also keeps parents on their toes, and gives them inside look into the latest high school social trends. The topics discussed are EXTREMELY important and have helped me get a glimpse into an unknown world.

Parents, do you know what a Finsta is? If not, you need to read this book! 

About The Author

Patterson draws from over 15 years of experience as a high school teacher, administrator, and educational-centered parenting and teen life coach. Having received his master’s in secondary education, Patterson currently runs a full-time consulting firm, Patterson Perspective Inc. To date, he has worked with over 100 families, helping teens reach their full capacity in academic and social frameworks through positive reinforcement and giving parents the necessary tools for their children to achieve this.

About The Book

“The Assertive Parent” is a practical roadmap for parents seeking to build autonomy, authenticity, and resilience in their teenage children. The book tackles four significant topics, including substance abuse and family communications and systems. Readers will experience a solution-oriented, judgment-free, and plug-and-play resource that provides a framework for successfully modifying their approach to parenting teenagers.

“The Assertive Parent” is available for $18 at Amazon.com. For more information visit pattersonperspective.com.

Bacon Bacon and More Bacon at Slater’s 50/50 In Anaheim Hills

Featured Burger: BISON & BACON American-raised bison with thick-cut bacon, swiss cheese, jalapeño-bacon jam, lettuce, tomato and sage aioli on a honey wheat bun. (my personal fave)

It’s National Burger Month and it’s time to celebrate Yippee! 

If you are a bacon fan, you need to check out Slater’s 50/50 in Anaheim Hills.

My family absolutely LOVES “le bacon,” and we were excited to check this legendary burger joint out.  As we walked in the restaurant, we could hear and smell the sizzling bacon… It was heaven on earth!

Mike the manager, kindly greeted us and showed us to our table. He was very friendly and attentive with both the customers and his staff.  Our knowledgeable waitress walked us through the menu options. The selection was HUGE, and there were so many delicious appetizers and entrées to choose from. There was BACON in almost everything on their menu! (a pinch me moment)

Hosted: Thank you Slater’s 50/50 for inviting my family to eat at your restaurant. All opinions are my own.

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We started out with the Slater’s Vampire Dip… OMG sooo addicting! 

This loaded appetizer had roasted garlic and artichoke hearts blended with creamy melted cheese, served in a sourdough bread bowl with crispy pita and veggies for dipping.

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Bacon Mac and Cheese Balls- Yes please! These House-made bacon mac and cheese balls are breaded with panko and served with Tapatio ranch for dipping. This appetizer had just the right crisp with a rich moist inside… NOMNOM

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Check out this over the top amped up Ultimate S’more Shake! 

Whoa! This insane shake was prepared by “Mike the Man” himself. He took much pride in his creation, and explained all that was involved in making this masterpiece.

This toasted marshmallow shake has a marshmallow fluff rim & crumbled graham cracker crust is topped with fresh whipped cream, toasted marshmallows, a chocolate syrup drizzle and a campfire roasted s’more . (Add Bailey’s Irish Cream)

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The Lone Star Smoke was my son’s burger choice on the menu. He ordered the animal fries, to go with his delicious burger. (I kept stealing them lol)

It has Black Canyon Angus beef topped with smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, crispy onion rings, pickles, smoky barbecue sauce and garlic aioli on a brioche bun.

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The Original 50/50 is the most popular among bacon fans. It has beef and bacon blend, pepper jack cheese, avocado, sunny-side up egg and chipotle mayo on a brioche bun.

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Cheers! It was so nice to sit, relax, and enjoy a craft beer. There are 25 local beers to select from on tap. The ambiance is casual and inviting.  Slater’s 50/50 is a great spot for date night, or even just to sit watch the game.

Oooh… Don’t forget to ask about their new delicious bloody Mary Bar!

Hickory-Smoked Bacon Bloody Mary

They are made with house-made bacon vodka and Cutwater Bloody Mary mix, finished with thick-cut bacon and Tajin!

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We had a great time and we can’t wait to go back!  The service was exceptional, the food was incredible, and the  staff made us feel right at home…

Address:

6362 E Santa Ana Canyon Rd.

Anaheim Hills, CA 92807

 

 

Review: Focus Feature’s Tully Hits Theaters May 4th

After giving birth to three girls, my husband and I were overjoyed when we learned that we were expecting our first son. We couldn’t wait to decorate his nursery, and prepare for his arrival. Pregnancy and delivery would be perfect.  I imagined myself nursing in his beautiful room, and I’d be singing lullabies.(cheesy I know) Sadly this was not the case, and I was faced with some health challenges that spiraled into a nightmare. After delivery, I was bedridden because I was leaking spinal fluid (from the epidural) . I faced unimaginable pain, and it was very difficult for me to bond with my newborn son. I juggled three other children, one with special needs, and I was facing  postpartum depression. The whole maternal experience was far from the fairytale I had envisioned.

During my pregnancy, I often despised the women who had that “pregnancy glow.”  Those flawless stylish women who walked around in four inch heels, and always looked radiant. Those bitches who bounced back to pre-pregnancy weight immediately after delivery. How was this possible? I hated them because I was exhausted,  overwhelmed, and felt extremely unattractive. My feet were swollen, my hair was falling out, and I waddled like a penguin. Wtf had I become? I was no longer the successful entrepreneur, fit belly dancer, and tennis player. I was a deformed alien, with cankles.

Last week, I screened Focus Feature’s new film Tully and attended the press conference at the Four Seasons in Beverly Hills. This film took me on an unexpected emotional journey, one that brought me back to this very difficult period in my life.

Tully hits theaters May 4th!

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About The Film

A new comedy from Academy Award-nominated director Jason Reitman [Up in the Air] and Academy Award-winning screenwriter Diablo Cody [Juno]. Marlo [Academy Award winner Charlize Theron], a mother of three including a newborn, is gifted a night nanny by her brother [Mark Duplass]. Hesitant to the extravagance at first, Marlo comes to form a unique bond with the thoughtful, surprising, and sometimes challenging young nanny named Tully [Mackenzie Davis].

Thank you Focus Features for inviting me to screen Tully and attend the press conference. All opinions are my own.

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Charlize Theron stars as “Marlo,”  a loving mother of three in the film.

What an incredible SURPRISE!

During the screening Charlize Theron, Mackenzie Davis, and Ron Livingston surprised us at the private screening of Tully.

Charlize said, ” It is not a film about compartmentalizing parenthood. It is a film about knowing we are all going through the same journey. And that we are not alone. So hopefully we can all unite tonight. And how fucken hard it is to be a parent, but also how fucken great it is!” (Love her)

During the screening I laughed hysterically, sobbed, and cringed during many of the film’s gut wrenching moments. (don’t forget to bring tissues when you watch this film)

In this film, Charlize brilliantly depicts a haggard struggling mama, who is trying to find life balance and get in a little rest when she can. As a mother, I could easily relate to her character and to many of the situations presented in the film.

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Ron Livingston is “Drew,” a withdrawn and overworked father. He buries himself in his work to provide for his growing family, and to deflect from the reality at home. (another relatable situation)

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Mackenzie Davis is “Tully,” the night nurse, who comes to save the day… This movie has an unexpected turn of events, that blew me away.

Focus-features-Tully-DuplassMark Duplass is “Craig,” Marlo’s concerned brother, who wants to help his sister by hiring a night nurse for her.

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Jason Reitman – Director/Producer has created a film that has moved me in so many ways…

At the press conference Jason said, “This is a movie that is about that moment when you become a parent, and you feel like you need to close a chapter on a portion of your life, so that you can open up a space so your child can occupy it.”

Filmmaker Jason Reitman made his feature film debut with the 2006 Sundance hit Thank You for Smoking. He notably earned Academy Award ® nominations for directing Juno and Up in the Air, the latter of which earned Reitman a Golden Globe Award, WGA Award and BAFTA Award for Best Screenplay. His other films include Young Adult, Labor Day and Men, Women and Children. Reitman has produced three seasons of the Hulu comedy series “Casual” through his Right of Way Films. He also executive produced the Academy Award-winning film Whiplash and the Jean-Marc Vallee directed Demolition through the production company. He is in post-production on The Front Runner, which he is co-writing and directing.

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“Tully” is a brutal honest look at the frustrating situation of a mother, that speaks volumes for the lives of so many others.  This brilliant movie is a MUST-SEE. Go see it in theaters May 4th!

 

 

Pappy’s Seafood By San Pedro’s Urban Harbor

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On a lazy Sunday morning my fam bam drove up to Pappy’s Seafood Restaurant in San Pedro, California. As we made our way to the restaurant, we rolled down the windows of the car to let the fresh ocean breeze hit our faces. The urban harbor views were just breathtaking…

As we drove up, we noticed the restaurant was located on a lovely street next to vintage shops, cafes, and and small art galleries. My kids love unique places like this, where we can stroll and be “artsy cool cats.”

Pappy’s Seafood menu emphasizes sustainable and local seafood, sourced fresh from the Port of Los Angeles. There are plenty of offerings for kids and families.

Thank you Pappy’s Seafood for inviting my family to dine at your restaurant. All opinions are my own.

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The eclectic nautical themed restaurant is a casual yet chic. The staff was friendly and patiently walked us through the menu options. pappys-seafood-beer

The ambiance is serene and inviting…

Pappy’s is the kind of place you can order a tall glass of beer, enjoy fresh seafood, and disconnect from the city’s hustle and bustle…

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Here’s a recap of what we ordered:

We started out with some appetizers to share…

The Crab Cakes were made with house tarter sauce and greens. They were both delicious and addicting.

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Crab & Artichoke Dip was rich in flavor and made with and make with parmesan and a penko crust.

pappys-seafood-hush-puppiesThe Hush Puppies were crispy and sweet. They are made with corn cake and honey butter. pappys-seafood-poke

My daughter ordered this colorful Poke Bowl. It was delicious and it had a sweet kick to it. It is made with Jasmine rice, edamame, grilled pineapple, toasted sesame seeds, seaweed, and avocado wasabi mousse.

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My personal highlight was the Lobster Roll.  It was moist and full of flavor. It was served a soft and crispy roll and made with lobster meat, house mayo, lemon dill, celery, red onion, chives, and garlic herb butter. Sooo good!

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The Clambake was served with whole shrimp, corn on the cob, redskin potatoes, kielbasa sausage, clams, mussels, caramelized lemons, garlic herb butter, and bread rolls… Delicious and fun to share!

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Thinking about throwing a private party?

The Rendezvous Room is a speakeasy lounge, private dining and event space in the back of the Pappy’s building that features a discreet entrance, private restrooms, projector, and independently curated music. Original marble flooring and rich navy blue wood paneled walls create a classic, refined backdrop for private events, both big and small. Decorated with a nod to the Papadakis family, the sophisticated private event space boasts a historic collection of photography curated by Taso Papadakis that highlights San Pedro’s colorful past and original liquor licenses from the 1930’s. The aesthetic seamlessly nods to the municipal functionality and nefarious Beacon Street activity, once dubbed the toughest four blocks in the world. Available exclusively for private gatherings, The Rendezvous Room’s lounge and dining room offer an intimate experience for up to 75 guests.

Pappy’s is a Seafood gem waiting to be discovered…

Address

301 West 6th Street San Pedro, CA 90731

424.224.5444

Hours

Sunday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM Friday & Saturday: 11:30 AM – 11:30 PM

Mathnasium Two Month Progress Update

My son has been attending Mathnasium in Laguna Niguel, two times a week for last two months. This Math tutoring program has been extremely beneficial to my son, and he has improved in mathematics tremendously. In fact, we have decided to officially enroll our child in the program.

Last week, I met with the director of the program to check on my son’s progress. I was pleased to learn that in the short amount of time, he has improved by exactly twenty percent! (After two months, Mathnasium conducts a partial assessment to check the student’s progress, and a final assessment is given after a year)

This school year my son started fourth grade, and he has been introduced to more complex and difficult math concepts. Initially, he was struggling and was a bit discouraged in school. Just when we started to look for a math tutor, Mathnasium in Laguna Niguel came to the rescue! We were thrilled to learn about this incredible math center in OC. It is staffed by college-educated, Mathnasium-certified instructors who work with each child individually.

At Mathnasium, my son is taught by caring and knowledgeable instructors well-versed in integrating Mathnasium’s techniques with the math curriculum used in local Orange County schools.

Compensation: Thank you Mathnasium  for letting my son try your tutoring service for free. All opinions are my own. 

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The program began with an assessment to determine his current math level. This assessment is designed to pinpoint a child’s strengths and weaknesses. These results provide the foundation from which Mathnasium constructs the student’s customized learning plan for each child.
During the two month trial period, he worked several math topics including: addition, subtraction, multi-digit multiplication, inequality symbols, skip counting, division, naming fractions, inequality symbols and so much more…
The Mathnasium Method uses a unique combination of mental, verbal, visual, tactile, and written techniques to help children really understand math, and has been developed over more than 40 years of practical experience with thousands of students.
The first half of the hour session my son worked on math concepts. The second half he used to work on homework. Also, when he had an upcoming math exam he took his study guide to review with his tutor.
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Prizes and Incentives! 
My son is given prizes and candy for his hard work and good behavior. After each session, he looks forward to spinning the wheel for a candy. Also, my son’s math worksheet and a card is stamped. This accumulation of stamped cards can go towards redeeming a big prize.
This prize system definitely motivates my son to work harder, and to be on his best behavior. He often looks at the games a toys on display with glistening eyes. I can see him makes a mental notes of the prizes he desires.
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In the short amount of time that my son has been enrolled in the program, his improvement in Math has not gone unnoticed. He recently received this award at school. Since starting Mathnasium, he has become more confident and enthused about going to school!
My son’s overall experience has been positive, encouraging, and promising. My kiddo raves about his tutors and looks forward to going every week! As a mom, I am thrilled about his progress and the self-confidence he has gained. 

If your child struggles in Math, this place is to take your child for exceptional tutoring!

The center is at the corner of La Paz and Oso Parkway / Pacific Park Drive in the Sprouts and Home Depot shopping center

27281 La Paz Rd, Ste. L, Laguna Niguel CA 92677

(949) 360-6284 

[email protected]

Disney On Ice: Follow Your Heart

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Are you a Disney Fan?

If so, you need to see this show!

Last night, my son and I had a date night and headed to Disney On Ice: Follow Your Heart at Long Beach Arena.

It was our very first time seeing the show, and we had no idea what the night had in store for us…

Hosted: Thank you Disney On Ice for Inviting my family to see Follow Your Heart. All opinions are my own.

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As soon as the show began, we were truly enchanted. We are HUGE Disney Fans, and we were excited to see several of our favorite characters all in one arena…

Hosted: Thank you Disney On Ice for Inviting my family to see Follow Your Heart. All opinions are my own.

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Mickey, Minnie, and their friends perform in this wonderful holiday show!

Just in time for the holidays, Disney On Ice presents “Follow Your Heart.” This sensational show presented by Feld Entertainment is running in Los Angeles, Anaheim, Long Beach and Ontario. Disney On Ice will perform through January 8th, 2017.

Coupon link below!  

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About Disney On Ice- Follow Your Heart

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.

disney-on-ice-heartMy son and I were thrilled to see some of his favorite characters like Woody, Buzz Light Year, Aladdin, Dory, Mickey, and many more!

This ice skating extravaganza features the beloved stories and characters from the smash hit animated movies Disney•Pixar’s Finding Dory and Inside Out for the first time in a live production.

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My son and I loved the fact the show was interactive. It was fun to sing along to some of our favorite Disney tunes. Classics like Snow White’s, ” High Ho it’s off to work we go…”

There is one intermission during the show that gives show goers time to enjoy refreshments, snow cones, churros, popcorn, pizza and chips.  Disney souvenirs are also available.disney-follow-your-heart

The performances were spectacular, and there was never a dull moment…

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The costumes were bright and colorful. The dance numbers were jaw dropping, and the ice skaters danced flawlessly in sync.

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The actors had great stage presence and captivated the audience.

disney-follow-your-heartThe props and special effects were spectacular. There was fireworks, snow, fireworks, and awesome light effects.

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We were truly mesmerized by the aerial silk performers and the dragon dance in the Mulan number. (My personal favorite)

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The show ended with Frozen’s Elsa and Anna singing in the snow. The audience cheered and sang along to “Let It Go.”

This show is great for the entire family! Don’t miss it…

Upcoming show Locations- Dates-  Times

Long Beach (December 27, 2017 – January 1st, 2018)

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

Where: Long Beach Arena – 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802
Tickets: Prices start at $25

Ontario (January 3-7, 2018)

  • 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 and 7:00 PM
  • Sunday, January 7 11:30 AM and 3:30 PM

Where: Citizens Business Bank Arena – 4000 Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario, CA 91764
Tickets: Prices start at $25

Click here to print the coupon!  705351-D30B-Mom_Flyer-LA_Area-389861

Star Wars: The Last Jedi Now In Theaters

As a young girl, Star Wars was the center of my galactic daydreams. After the release of the Empire Strikes Back in 1980, Princess Leia became my idol. She was a strong, gorgeous, and a badass princess. One halloween, I constructed a homemade Leia costume. My costume consisted of an old ivory bed sheet, and my hair wrapped into two buns. My mother wasn’t fond of my creation, and begged me to dress into something more classic. She said, “Can’t you be Raggedy Ann?  A princess? A nun? COME ON MIJA, ANYTHING ELSE?!” I winked at her and I headed out to trick or treat (with an overflow of self confidence might I add).

Earlier this week, my childhood dream came true… My son and I screened Star Wars: The Last Jedi, at Walt Disney Studios in Burbank. The whole experience was memorable and magical! This new epic film can now be seen in theaters everywhere

Thank you Disney for inviting me to screen Star Wars: The Last Jedi. All opinions are my own.

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Synopsis

In Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: The Last Jedi, the Skywalker saga continues as the heroes of The Force Awakens join the galactic legends in an epic adventure that unlocks age-old mysteries of the Force and shocking revelations of the past.

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When my childhood idol Leia (Carrie Fisher) hit the big screen, I was overcome with tears. This fierce actress was a heroine and such a big part of my playtime memories… She will be missed.

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There were many intense battles that kept my son and I on the edge of our seats.

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In the Last Jedi we are introduced to a strong, Asian American female actress. Asians only have 1% of leading roles in the movie industry. However, this is 2017! One of the largest franchises in the world, has EXCITINGLY created an Asian female lead. Now, Asian American children can look up to Kelly Marie Tran…

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[clickToTweet tweet=”#StarWars #TheLastJedi This new film is powerful, emotional, and hilarious! ” quote=”This new film is powerful, emotional, and hilarious!”]

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Darkness rises…and light to meet it.

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Go see Star Wars: The Last Jedi with your entire family in theaters today!

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