Real Tip Tuesday – The Fitted Sheet

Oh, that fitted sheet!  Tormentor, nemesis, laughing in my face as I wrestle you onto the bed.

Ever wonder if there’s an easier way?

Well, there’s a simple way to tell which corner goes where, right from the get-go!

Every fitted sheet should have a tag sewn into one of the corners.  That tag belongs on the bottom, left corner, if you’re laying in the bed.

Once you know where that tag goes, then it fits right on!  Now if I could just figure out how to neatly fold it…

27
Mar
2012

Real Tip – Creative Way to Display Holiday Photo Cards

I published this last year around the holidays, and thought it would be a great reminder for those looking to cherish their photo cards.  Works great on a coffee table or desk.

This time of year, I am reminded of how fortunate we are to have so many wonderful families in our lives.  We receive holiday cards with beautiful photos every day, and we love looking at the photos and seeing how everyone has changed, and how their kids are growing up.

Then the season ends, and we are left with a stack of beautiful photos, all too precious to throw away.  But I can’t bring myself to pack up any more bits of paper, so what’s a mom to do?

Well, a glass-covered coffee table in our family room is the perfect display spot!  About 5 years ago, when we first moved into the house we live in now, we purchased a new round coffee table to complement our 12-foot long sectional sofa (yes, we like our seating here at the Real OC House).  The coffee table is very pretty, but has a sleek, shiny finish on it, rather than the distressed finish of the coffee table we had before.  So I immediately made a template out of butcher paper and ordered up a piece of glass for it.

Then that year, when I was trying to figure out what to do with all the holiday photos cards, hubs had a fantastic idea – trim the photos and place them under the glass of our coffee table!  That way, we can enjoy the photos all year long.  Our daughter loves looking at family and friends every day, and when friends come over, the kids always enjoy finding their photo in the collage.  It’s a really neat way to be reminded of the many wonderful people in our lives who we might not have time to talk with as much as we’d like!

I have many friends who save their holiday photo cards creatively – by scrapbooking them each year, tying them together in a bundle by year and saving them with the holiday decorations, or scanning each photo and saving it digitally.  But for our family, we enjoy having them in a spot where we spend a lot of time.  It works for us, and might work for you, too!

Note:  I really, really wanted to include a photo of the table with the photos, but decided not to for privacy reasons.

31
Dec
2011

Real Tip Tuesday – Organizing Kids’ Schoolwork

Now that most kids are back at school again, I thought I’d re-post this helpful hint on how to organize their schoolwork.  Minimal investment needed – just a binder and a good 3-hole punch!  This year, I’m also going to add in a cd pocket and include a cd of photos or scanned pieces of artwork that are too large to fit in the binder.

My daughter brings home a TON of papers from school.  And as much as I love seeing what she’s up to, I despise paperwork.  It has a way of piling up on my desk, getting higher and higher until I finally decide it’s time to tackle the mountain, right before there’s an avalanche.  I’m really bad with keeping paperwork organized.

So this year, I started a binder for all her schoolwork.  Each week, I go through the papers, set aside the most interesting papers (the things that will represent her capabilities as a first-grader when we look back), and punch holes in them with my handy-dandy 3-hole punch.  Then I put them in a 2″ thick binder for safekeeping. If something is too large to fit into the binder (like an art project), I either take a photo for safekeeping and binder storage, or, if it’s foldable, I fold it and put it into a page protector for saving.  Scanning large pieces of artwork and downloading onto a cd to include in the binder also works well.  At the end of the school year, I’ll have a binder full of her work to flip through later on!

Oh, and as a bonus, I also save each weekly newsletter her teacher sends home.  It details the curriculum, upcoming events or field trips, and other special classroom news.  I figure these will be fun for her to look back at when she’s older.

If my daughter were more like me, she would never look through the binder again.  However, she’s extremely sentimental, likes to save everything, and is exactly like my husband (who has every paper he has ever written in his life), so I know she will appreciate this when she’s an adult.  And my need for order and logic appreciates a neatly labeled set of binders, as opposed to a box full of loose papers. So it’s a win-win!

19
Sep
2011

How I Get My Child to Talk about School

My daughter just started second grade and is growing up faster than ever!  She cares about her clothes and hair, brings home secret notes from friends, and cranks up her radio in the morning while she gets ready for school.  It’s kind of scary how grown up she has become!

One of the challenges parents face with kids in school is getting them to talk to you about their day.  I’ll be honest – this can be a challenge no matter what their age.  It’s tough for them to remember what they did if they are younger, and if they’re a little older, they’ve got other things on their mind beside sharing their day with mom or dad.

So I’ve started a new experiment.  Instead of asking generic questions that lend themselves to 2 or 3 word answers, I ask more though-provoking questions.  And guess what?  I get more thought-provoking answers!  Amazing how that works.  I’m not sure why I didn’t think of this sooner.  I’ve read at least a hundred times that you should ask questions that open up discussion, but I guess I thought I was.  And then when I really thought about the answers I was getting, I realized I needed to do better.  And so far, it’s really working.

Want to know what kind of questions I’m asking?  Here’s a list to get you started:

  • What did you do today that was brave?
  • Who was a good friend to you today and what did they do that made them a good friend?
  • Were you a good friend to anyone today?  How?
  • Did anyone make you laugh today?
  • Did you learn any new words today?
  • What new piece of information is in your brain now that wasn’t there this morning?
  • Did anyone in your class ask any interesting questions today?
  • Did anything happen today that made you particularly happy?
  • Did you do anything today that you are especially proud of?  Or not especially proud of?
  • Did you give anyone a compliment today?  What was it?
  • Did anyone give you a compliment today?  What was it?
  • Did you talk to any grown-ups other than your teacher?  Who?  What did you talk about?

These are all great conversation starters, and they provide a window into what went on during my daughter’s day.

If you have any other ideas for good questions to ask, please share.  I’d love to have some more to try out!

14
Sep
2011

Another Great Exercise if You’re Over 35 – Shoulder Presses

So, I’ve kind of started a “great exercises for women over 35″ series.  Truth is, these are great exercises for anyone.  But I’ve found that, with my slower metabolism and achier joints, weight-bearing exercises really get the job done for me.   I first wrote about the chest press, which is a regular part of my workouts.  Here’s another one that has really given me great results – the shoulder press.

There are a few reasons why I like this exercise.  First, I see a big difference in my upper arms and back when I’m doing this exercise regularly.  Second, I have serious lower back issues, and if I do shoulder presses very, very carefully, I’m building strength in my upper back, shoulders and arms to help compensate for the weakness in my lower back.  I use really light weights for this one – 5 or 7 pounds, at the most, so I don’t throw my lower back out.  Plus, I’m not looking to shape my body into an upside-down triangle, just firm it up a little.

With a hand weight in each hand, put feet shoulder width apart.  Make sure tummy is squeezed tight and pelvis is tucked under, so your back isn’t swayed.

Bring elbows out and forearms up, into a 90-degree angle.  Weights and hands should be directly over your elbows, forming an “L” shape.  Do not let weights fall in toward your shoulders.

Raise both weights overhead and touch the ends together over your head.  Return to starting “L” position.

Do 3 sets of 15.

You can click HERE for a great instructional video in case you need the visual (Plus, this gal is really, really buff).

Try these 3-4 times a week for two weeks and see if you notice a difference in your upper arms.  I bet you will!

25
Aug
2011

The Chest Press and Why It’s Great if You’re Over 35

I turned 37 last month, which is still just so hard for me to believe.  I think of myself as about an, oh, 24-year-old.  Okay, sure I was unmarried, childless, and holed up in an office umpteen hours a week when I was that age, none of which is true now, but still, I don’t feel like I’m closer to 40 than 20.

Of course, there are a few gentle reminders.  Tiny, fine lines around my eyes, lots and lots of gray hair, more creaks and aches in my joints, and the metabolism thing.  Oh yeah, that’s loads of fun.

You see, when I was closer to 20 than 40, I could eat almost anything I wanted and not gain an ounce.  I know, it’s annoying, but that’s the way it was. And unfortunately, I didn’t really appreciate it.  Because now, I swear, I just look at dessert, and the scale reads one pound heavier the next morning.  It’s weird, and frustrating, and kind of tough to deal with, to be honest.  I feel really, really lucky that I haven’t always had to worry about it, but on the other hand, to suddenly have to worry about something you never had to think about is, well, quite humbling.

It’s really become a struggle for me in the last year.  And the problem is, I love dessert.  I could give up burgers, fries, steaks, bacon, chips, salt, any of that in a heartbeat.  But I must, must, must have a little something sweet every day.  Otherwise, I’m grumpy, cranky, and just plain not fun to be around.

So, it quickly became obvious to me that I would need to figure out something other than eliminating sweets from my diet.  Sure, I don’t eat as large of a portion of dessert as I might have in the past, but I still had to do more.

And what I’ve figured out, over the past 6 months or so, is that weight training is absolutely crucial to keeping off the pudge.

Now, let me just insert a quick dose of brutal honesty here – I’m no fitness guru, physical training expert, or swimsuit model by any means.  I’m just a mom who likes to read stuff about health, who goes to the gym on a somewhat regular basis, and tries out different things to figure out what works best for me.

And I’ve found that, while cardio is important for lots of reasons, the only way to keep those extra inches off my tummy and thighs is to pick up some weights and move ‘em around a bit.

So, over the next couple of weeks, I’m going to share some of my favorite exercises I do with weights.  I don’t use really heavy weights (I have a lot of back problems and I don’t find it’s necessary anyhow) – I stick with 5, 10 and 15 pounders, depending on the exercise.  I also like really basic exercises that are sort of tried-and-true (if I’ve seen them in a magazine or book numerous times, for example).

Here’s the first one that I’ve found to be really effective – the chest press.  The most important thing to remember when doing this exercise is to keep your tummy sucked in and your lower back on the floor (or bench, if you’re using one).

Lie down on your back on the floor or a bench with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor.

Grab a weight in each hand (I use 10 or 15 pounds for this one).

Bend your arms at a 90-degree angle so that your tricep is on the floor, your elbows are in line with your shoulders, and your wrists are in line above your elbows.

Raise your arms up at the same time, touching the ends of the weights together over your chest.

Lower your arms back to the original position.

Do 3 sets of 15.

Here is a great video I found online showing you how to do this exercise (there’s an intro ad, but it’s worth sitting through to see a really great demo):

Chest Press with Dumbells

And why do I love this exercise?  Well, I find it tones up that pesky back of arm area, the bicep, and most importantly, helps keep the chest perky and strong.  All very important for us gals, right?

Do you already do this exercise?  If not, give it a try and let me know what you think!

18
Aug
2011

2011 Summer Activities in the OC – July

Yep, it’s definitely summer!  And here at the Real OC House, we’re always looking for fun, budget-friendly activities to keep us from going bonkers at home. I thought your family might be looking for something to do, too, so here’s a day-by-day rundown to help you keep the kiddos entertained in July without busting your bank account.  Enjoy!

1st – “Wild Tales” at the Muth Interpretive Center in Newport Beach.  $5 per child.  Ages 2 – 8 years.  Crafts, storytelling, nature walks and more.  Pre-registration is required

Toddler Storytime at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  10:30 am.

Grandparents and Books at the Oak View Branch Library in Huntington.  2 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Allen Oshiro Magic show at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  3 pm.

Movies on the Beach at Newport Dunes in Newport Beach. “Emperors New Groove”.  Bring your lawn chairs. Free admission, parking $10. Movie begins at sunset.

2nd – Kids’ crafts all day at the Mary Wilson Branch Library in Seal Beach.

Free admission to the La Habra Children’s Museum sponsored by Target.

Free kids’ workshop at Home Depot from 9 am – noon.  Come learn how to make a coaster set.  Appropriate for kids ages 5 – 12.  Call your local Home Depot to confirm class.

Family Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  10:30 am.  For kids ages 3 – 5.

Free craft at Lakeshore Learning Center in Laguna Hills or Fountain Valley.  11 am – 3 pm.

Lego Block Party at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport.  For elementary school-aged children.  3 pm.

Movies on the Beach at Newport Dunes in Newport Beach.  ”Monsters vs. Aliens”.  Bring your lawn chairs.  Free admission, parking $10.  Movie begins at sunset.

3rd – Summer concert at the OC Marketplace in Costa Mesa.  ”Don’t Stop Believin’” (Journey Tribute).  Noon and 2 pm.

3rd of July Celebration at El Modena High School in Orange.  Food, games, music and a fireworks show.  4 – 9 pm.

4th – July 4th Celebration at Tustin High School.  Entertainment begins at 6:30, fireworks at 9 pm.  Event is free.  For more information, call 714-573-3326.

For a more in-depth list of July 4th celebrations, click HERE

5th – Family Storytime at the San Clemente Library.  9:30 am.

Asian crafts at the Central Branch Library Friends Room in Newport.  Offered twice:  10 am – 11 am and noon – 1 pm.

Toddler Storytime at the RSM Public Library.  For kids ages 18 months – 3 years.  10:15 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Mariners and Balboa Branch Libraries in Newport.  For kids ages 3 – 5. 10:30 am.

Books and Babies at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  For infants ages 6 – 24 months.  10:30 am.

Morning Storytime at the Taft Branch Library in Orange.  For kids ages 5 and under.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Fountain Valley Library.  For kids ages 2 – 5.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Foothill Ranch Library.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Garden Grove Chapman Library.  For kids ages 18 months – 2 years.  11:15 am.

Preschool Storytime at the SJC Library.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  11:15 am.

Toddler Storytime “Stay and Play” at the Seal Beach/Mary Wilson Library.  Older siblings welcome.  11:15 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Los Alamitos/Rossmoor Library.  For kids ages 2 – 5.  11:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Foothill Ranch Library.  For kids ages 1 – 3.  11:30 am.

Grandparents and Books at the Oak View Branch Library in Huntington.  2 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Family Storytime at the Donald Dungan Branch Library in Costa Mesa.  For kids of all ages and their families.  2 pm.

Grandparents and Books at the Main Street Branch Library in Huntington.  3 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Award-winning book club discussion at the Brea Library.  For kids in Grades 3 – 8.  3:30 pm.

Concerts in the Park at Fairview Park in Costa Mesa – The Peggy Nelson Project (Top 40’s hits).  5:30 pm.

Pajama Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  6:30 pm.

Family Storytime at the La Habra Library.  7 pm.

Family Storytime at the Stanton Library.  7 pm.

Pajama Storytime at the Tustin Library.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  7 pm.

6th – Toddler Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport.  Offered twice:  9:30 – 10 am and 10:30 – 11 am.  For kids ages 2 – 3 and their parents (no older siblings, please)

Toddler Storytime at the Main Street Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids ages 1 – 3.  10 – 10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  10:30 am.  For kids age newborn – 2 and an adult.

Family Reading time at the Ladera Ranch Library.  Come read with teen volunteers.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Main Street Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids ages 3 – 5.  11 – 11:30 am.

Books and Babies at the Mariners and Balboa Branch Libraries in Newport. For infants ages 6 – 24 months.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the CDM Branch Libraries in Newport. For kids ages 3 – 5.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Garden Grove Library. For kids ages 3 – 5.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Garden Grove/West Branch Library.  For infants to 3 1/2 year olds.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the El Toro Library in Lake Forest.  For kids ages 3 – 5.  1:30 pm.

Grandparents and Books at the Oak View Branch Library in Huntington.  2 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Asian crafts at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport.  Offered twice:  2 pm – 3 pm and 4 pm – 5 pm.

Concerts in the Park at Peppertree Park in Tustin – Cold Duck (Hits from 70’s to Now).  6-8 pm.

Family movie night at the Donald Dungan Branch Library in Costa Mesa.  6:30 pm.  Free.  Tickets available up to 30 minutes prior to the show.

Pajama Storytime at the Mesa Verde Branch Library in Costa Mesa.  For kids ages 3 – 8.  7 pm.

7th – “Animal Art II” Toddler Program at the OC Zoo in Orange.  10 – 11 am.  Activities and crafts for kids age 3-4.  Event fee – $5 per child.  Parking fee – $3.  Registration required – call Marcy Crede-Booth at 714-973-6847

Gypsy Folk Ensemble Polynesian Dance show at the Ladera Ranch Library.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport. For kids ages 3 – 5.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport. For kids ages 2 – 3.  10:30 am. (no older siblings, please)

Toddler Storytime at the Banning Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids age 1 – 3.  10 – 10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  10:30 am.  For kids ages 3 – 5.

Summer Reading Program entertainment at the San Clemente Library.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Banning Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids age 3 – 5.  11 – 11:30 am.

Asian crafts at the Balboa Branch Library in Newport.  11 am.

Family Film Festival at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  Come watch a family-friendly movie in the air-conditioned community room.  2 pm.

Grandparents and Books at the Banning Branch Library in Huntington.  3 pm.  For kids of all ages.

“Cool Summer Nights” at the Shipley Nature Center in Huntington.  Every Thursday in July and August, come enjoy the nature center free from 4 – 8 pm.  Special programs included.  Donations are welcome.

“Parables with Auntie Ruth” at the Tustin Library.  7:15 pm.

“Pageant of the Masters” in Laguna Beach opens.  Runs through August 31st.

8th - Toddler Storytime at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  10:30 am.

Grandparents and Books at the Oak View Branch Library in Huntington.  2 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Asian crafts at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  3 pm.

Movies on the Beach at Newport Dunes in Newport Beach. “The Incredibles”.  Bring your lawn chairs.  Free admission, parking $10.  Movie begins at sunset.

Movies at the Muth at the Muth Interpretive Center in Newport Beach.  ”Babe”.  Free event.  6 – 9 pm.  Bring a picnic dinner and comfy chairs.

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  8 pm.

9thFullerton Arboretum Children’s Class – “Bug Safari” from 9:30 – 10:30 am.  Garden exploration and interactive bug investigation led by the Arboretum Bug Lady.  $5 per child, ages 5 and up. Registration required by Wednesday before class – call 657-278-3407.  Admission to the Arboretum is free.

Family Art Time at the Irvine Fine Arts Center. 10 – 11:30 am.  Children and their parents can experiment with different art media with guidance from an instructor. Ages 5 and up, $8 fee.  To register, click HERE

“Toy Making for Animals” kids Program at the OC Zoo in Orange.  11 am – noon.  Activities and crafts for kids age 5-8.  Event fee – $5 per child.  Parking fee – $3.  Registration required – call Marcy Crede-Booth at 714-973-6847.  Each child should bring two empty toilet paper rolls.

Family Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  10:30 am.  For kids ages 3 – 5.

Free craft at Lakeshore Learning Center in Laguna Hills or Fountain Valley.  11 am – 3 pm.

Summer concert at the OC Marketplace in Costa Mesa.  ”Woodstock Mud’” (CSN&Y Tribute).  Noon.  ”The Who Revue”.  2 pm.  Bring canned food item for free admission.

Lego Block Party at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport.  For elementary school-aged children.  3 pm.

Movies on the Beach at Newport Dunes in Newport Beach. “A Bug’s Life”.  Bring your lawn chairs.  Free admission, parking $10. Movie begins at sunset.

Concerts in the Park at Civic Center Green in Cypress – High Street (Swing, Latin, Rock, Disco).  6 pm.

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  8 pm.

10th – Restoration Program at the Muth Interpretive Center in Newport Beach.  Come help beautify the nature center!  All ages welcome, but children under 15 must have a guardian with them.  9 am – noon.

Free Second Sundays presented by Target at OCMA.  Come enjoy a fun-filled day of free crafts and admission to the museum with your children.  11 am – 4 pm.  This event is a Real OC Mom favorite!

Outdoor concert at the OC Marketplace in Costa Mesa.  ”Aquarius 68″.  Noon and 2 pm.  Bring canned food item for free admission.

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  2 pm.

Concerts in the Park at Lantern Bay Park in Dana Point – Garratt Wilkin and the Parrotheads (Jimmy Buffett Tribute).  4:30 – 6 pm.

Shakespeare By the Sea “Much Ado About Nothing” at the Bonita Canyon Sports Park in Newport Beach.  7 – 9 pm (pre-show begins at 6:45 pm).

11th – Books and Babies at the Central Branch Library in Newport. For infants ages 6 – 24 months.  9:30 – 10 am and 10:30 – 11 am.

Morning Storytime at the El Modena Branch Library in Orange.  For kids ages 5 and under.  10:30 am.

Manic Mondays Craft Program at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  For kids in First through Sixth Grade.  Presented by teen volunteers.  2 pm.

Face painting at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport. 3 – 4 pm.

Pajama Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport.  For kids ages 3 – 7.  7 – 7:30 pm.

12th – Family Storytime at the San Clemente Library.  9:30 am.

Australian crafts at the Central Branch Library Friends Room in Newport.  Offered twice:  10 am – 11 am and noon – 1 pm.

Toddler Storytime at the RSM Public Library.  For kids ages 18 months – 3 years.  10:15 am.

Preschool Storytime at the  Mariners and Balboa Branch Libraries in Newport.  For kids ages 3 – 5. 10:30 am.

Books and Babies at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  For infants ages 6 – 24 months.  10:30 am.

Morning Storytime at the Taft Branch Library in Orange.  For kids ages 5 and under.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Fountain Valley Library.  For kids ages 2 – 5.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Foothill Ranch Library.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Garden Grove Chapman Library.  For kids ages 18 months – 2 years.  11:15 am.

Preschool Storytime at the SJC Library.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  11:15 am.

Toddler Storytime “Stay and Play” at the Seal Beach/Mary Wilson Library.  Older siblings welcome.  11:15 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Los Alamitos/Rossmoor Library.  For kids ages 2 – 5.  11:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Foothill Ranch Library.  For kids ages 1 – 3.  11:30 am.

Grandparents and Books at the Oak View Branch Library in Huntington.  2 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Family Storytime at the Donald Dungan Branch Library in Costa Mesa.  For kids of all ages and their families.  2 pm.

Grandparents and Books at the Main Street Branch Library in Huntington.  3 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Award-winning book club discussion at the Brea Library.  For kids in Grades 3 – 8.  3:30 pm.

Live Animal Show at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  3:30 pm.

Concerts in the Park at Fairview Park in Costa Mesa – Time Bomb (Classic Rock).  5:30 pm.

Pajama Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  6:30 pm.

Tuesdays in the Garden at the Fullerton Arboretum.  6 – 7:30 pm.  ”Birds of Prey” – come view amazing birds of prey up close and in person with Peggy Chase from the OC Birds of Prey Center.  $5 per family, registration appreciated by Monday before the program – call 657-278-3407.

Family Storytime at the La Habra Library.  7 pm.

Family Storytime at the Stanton Library.  7 pm.

Pajama Storytime at the Tustin Library.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  7 pm.

13th - Toddler Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport.  Offered twice:  9:30 – 10 am and 10:30 – 11 am.  For kids ages 2 – 3 and their parents (no older siblings, please)

Toddler Storytime at the Main Street Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids ages 1 – 3.  10 – 10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Garden Grove/West Branch Library.  For infants to 3 1/2 year olds.  10:30 am.

Family Reading time at the Ladera Ranch Library.  Come read with teen volunteers.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  10:30 am.  For kids age newborn – 2 and an adult.

Preschool Storytime at the Main Street Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids ages 3 – 5.  11 – 11:30 am.

Books and Babies at the Mariners and Balboa Branch Libraries in Newport. For infants ages 6 – 24 months.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the CDM Branch Library in Newport. For kids ages 3 – 5.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Garden Grove Library. For kids ages 3 – 5.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the El Toro Library in Lake Forest.  For kids ages 3 – 5.  1:30 pm.

Grandparents and Books at the Oak View Branch Library in Huntington.  2 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Australian crafts at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport.  Offered twice:  2 pm – 3 pm and 4 pm – 5 pm.

Concerts in the Park at Peppertree Park in Tustin -Members Lonely (80’s).  6-8 pm.

Family movie night at the Donald Dungan Branch Library in Costa Mesa.  6:30 pm.  Free.  Tickets available up to 30 minutes prior to the show.

Concerts in the Park at Fullerton Sports Complex in Fullerton – Southbound (70’s and Southern Rock).  6:30 – 8:30 pm.

Pajama Storytime at the Mesa Verde Branch Library in Costa Mesa.  For kids ages 3 – 8.  7 pm.

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  8 pm.

14th - Preschool Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport. For kids ages 3 – 5.  10:30 am.

Puppet Art Theatre puppet show at the Ladera Ranch Library.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport. For kids ages 2 – 3.  10:30 am. (no older siblings, please)

Toddler Storytime at the Banning Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids age 1 – 3.  10 – 10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  10:30 am.  For kids ages 3 – 5.

Summer Reading Program entertainment at the San Clemente Library.  10:30 am.

“Tideland Tykes” at the Muth Interpretive Center in Newport Beach.  10:30 am.  For ages 2 – 8.  Crafts, storytelling and a nature walk.  $5 per child, pre-registration required.

Preschool Storytime at the Banning Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids age 3 – 5.  11 – 11:30 am.

Australian crafts at the Balboa Branch Library in Newport.  11 am.

Family Film Festival at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  Come watch a family-friendly movie in the air-conditioned community room.  2 pm.

Grandparents and Books at the Banning Branch Library in Huntington.  3 pm.  For kids of all ages.

“Cool Summer Nights” at the Shipley Nature Center in Huntington.  Every Thursday in July and August, come enjoy the nature center free from 4 – 8 pm.  Special programs included.  Donations are welcome.

“Parables with Auntie Ruth” at the Tustin Library.  7:15 pm

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  8 pm.

15th – The Orange County Fair opens.  Runs through August 14th.

“Wild Tales” at the Muth Interpretive Center in Newport Beach.  $5 per child.  Ages 2 – 8 years.  Crafts, storytelling, nature walks and more.  Pre-registration is required

Toddler Storytime at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  10:30 am.

Grandparents and Books at the Oak View Branch Library in Huntington.  2 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Australian crafts at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  3 pm.

Moonlit Marshmallows at the Turtle Rock Nature Center in Irvine.  Bring a flashlight, dress warm, and come make a gooey s’more around the campfire. $3 per person, 6-7 pm or 7-8 pm.  To register, click HERE

Movies on the Beach at Newport Dunes in Newport Beach. “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs”.  Bring your lawn chairs.  Free admission, parking $10. Movie begins at sunset.

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  8 pm.

“Animals in My Backyard” Toddler Program at the OC Zoo in Orange.  10 – 11 am.  Activities and crafts for kids age 3-4.  Event fee – $5 per child.  Parking fee – $3.  Registration required – call Marcy Crede-Booth at 714-973-6847

16th – Family Art Time at the Irvine Fine Arts Center. 10 – 11:30 am.  Children and their parents can experiment with different art media with guidance from an instructor. Ages 5 and up, $8 fee.  To register, click HERE

Family Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport.  10:30 am.

Free craft at Lakeshore Learning Center in Laguna Hills or Fountain Valley.  11 am – 3 pm.

Lego Block Party at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport.  For elementary school-aged children.  3 pm.

Movies on the Beach at Newport Dunes in Newport Beach. “Ratatouille”.  Bring your lawn chairs.  Free admission, parking $10.  Movie begins at sunset.

Concerts in the Park at Civic Center Green in Cypress – Mike Henebry Orchestra (Swing).  6 pm.

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  8 pm.

17th – Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  2 pm.

Concerts in the Park at Lantern Bay Park in Dana Point – The Whiskey Jack Band (Classic Rock).  4:30 – 6 pm

16th and 17th – San Clemente Ocean Festival.  Children’s activities, Woody show, surfing contest, fishing clinics, 5K run and Dolphin Dash for kids, food, art, and more. For information, click HERE.

18th - Books and Babies at the Central Branch Library in Newport. For infants ages 6 – 24 months.  9:30 – 10 am and 10:30 – 11 am.

Morning Storytime at the El Modena Branch Library in Orange.  For kids ages 5 and under.  10:30 am.

Manic Mondays Craft Program at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  For kids in First through Sixth Grade.  Presented by teen volunteers.  2 pm.

Pajama Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport.  For kids ages 3 – 7.  7 – 7:30 pm.

19th -Family Storytime at the San Clemente Library.  9:30 am.

A visit from “Noiseguy” at the Central Branch Library Friends Room in Newport.  Offered twice:  10 am – 11 am and noon – 1 pm.

Toddler Storytime at the RSM Public Library.  For kids ages 18 months – 3 years.  10:15 am.

Preschool Storytime at the  Mariners and Balboa Branch Libraries in Newport.  For kids ages 3 – 5. 10:30 am.

Books and Babies at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  For infants ages 6 – 24 months.  10:30 am.

Morning Storytime at the Taft Branch Library in Orange.  For kids ages 5 and under.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Fountain Valley Library.  For kids ages 2 – 5.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Foothill Ranch Library.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Garden Grove Chapman Library.  For kids ages 18 months – 2 years.  11:15 am.

Preschool Storytime at the SJC Library.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  11:15 am.

Toddler Storytime “Stay and Play” at the Seal Beach/Mary Wilson Library.  Older siblings welcome.  11:15 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Los Alamitos/Rossmoor Library.  For kids ages 2 – 5.  11:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Foothill Ranch Library.  For kids ages 1 – 3.  11:30 am.

Grandparents and Books at the Oak View Branch Library in Huntington.  2 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Family Storytime at the Donald Dungan Branch Library in Costa Mesa.  For kids of all ages and their families.  2 pm.

Grandparents and Books at the Main Street Branch Library in Huntington.  3 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Award-winning book club discussion at the Brea Library.  For kids in Grades 3 – 8.  3:30 pm.

Concerts in the Park at Fairview Park in Costa Mesa – Help (Beatle’s Tribute).  5:30 pm.

Tuesdays in the Garden at the Fullerton Arboretum.  6 – 7:30 pm.  ”Our Beautiful Arboretum – For Families” – come view the arboretum from a photographer’s perspective with Steve Kaye.  $5 per family, registration appreciated by Monday before the program – call 657-278-3407.

Pajama Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  6:30 pm.

Family Storytime at the La Habra Library.  7 pm.

Family Storytime at the Stanton Library.  7 pm.

Pajama Storytime at the Tustin Library.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  7 pm.

20th – Toddler Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport.  Offered twice:  9:30 – 10 am and 10:30 – 11 am.  For kids ages 2 – 3 and their parents (no older siblings, please)

Toddler Storytime at the Main Street Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids ages 1 – 3.  10 – 10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Garden Grove/West Branch Library.  For infants to 3 1/2 year olds.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  10:30 am.  For kids age newborn – 2 and an adult.

Family Reading time at the Ladera Ranch Library.  Come read with teen volunteers.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Main Street Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids ages 3 – 5.  11 – 11:30 am.

Books and Babies at the Mariners and Balboa Branch Libraries in Newport. For infants ages 6 – 24 months.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the CDM Branch Library in Newport. For kids ages 3 – 5.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the El Toro Library in Lake Forest.  For kids ages 3 – 5.  1:30 pm.

Preschool Storytime at the Garden Grove Library. For kids ages 3 – 5.  10:30 am.

Grandparents and Books at the Oak View Branch Library in Huntington.  2 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Brother Yusef Musician Show at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport.  Offered twice:  2 pm – 3 pm and 4 pm – 5 pm.

Family Game Night at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  5:30 – 7 pm.  Adults must be accompanied by a child (ages 12 and under).

Concerts in the Park at Peppertree Park in Tustin – Hodads (Surf/Buffett).  6-8 pm.

Family movie night at the Donald Dungan Branch Library in Costa Mesa.  6:30 pm.  Free.  Tickets available up to 30 minutes prior to the show.

Concerts in the Park at Fullerton Sports Complex in Fullerton – Help (Beatles Tribute).  6:30 – 8:30 pm.

Pajama Storytime at the Mesa Verde Branch Library in Costa Mesa.  For kids ages 3 – 8.  7 pm.

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  8 pm.

21st - Preschool Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport. For kids ages 3 – 5.  10:30 am.

Allen Oshiro Magic show at the Ladera Ranch Library.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport. For kids ages 2 – 3.  10:30 am. (no older siblings, please)

Toddler Storytime at the Banning Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids age 1 – 3.  10 – 10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  10:30 am.  For kids ages 3 – 5.

Summer Reading Program entertainment at the San Clemente Library.  10:30 am.

“Tideland Tykes” at the Muth Interpretive Center in Newport Beach.  10:30 am.  For ages 2 – 8.  Crafts, storytelling and a nature walk.  $5 per child, pre-registration required.

Preschool Storytime at the Banning Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids age 3 – 5.  11 – 11:30 am.

A visit with “Noiseguy” at the Balboa Branch Library in Newport.  11 am.

Family Film Festival at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  Come watch a family-friendly movie in the air-conditioned community room.  2 pm.

Grandparents and Books at the Banning Branch Library in Huntington.  3 pm.  For kids of all ages.

“Bayside Buddies” at the Muth Interpretive Center in Newport Beach.  Hands on activities, crafts and nature walks for young naturalists.  Ages 2 – 8.  $5 per child, pre-registration required.  3:30 pm.

“Cool Summer Nights” at the Shipley Nature Center in Huntington.  Every Thursday in July and August, come enjoy the nature center free from 4 – 8 pm.  Special programs included.  Donations are welcome.

“Parables with Auntie Ruth” at the Tustin Library.  7:15 pm

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  8 pm.

22nd -Toddler Storytime at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  10:30 am.

Grandparents and Books at the Oak View Branch Library in Huntington.  2 pm.  For kids of all ages.

A visit from “Noiseguy” at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  3 pm.

Movies on the Beach at Newport Dunes in Newport Beach. “Alvin and the Chipmunks”.  Bring your lawn chairs.  Free admission, parking $10.  Movie begins at sunset.

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  8 pm.

23rd - Sizzlin’ Summer Concert at Woodbridge Community Park in Irvine – Greg Young and the 2nd Street Band (hits from the past 40 years).  5:30 – 7:30 pm.

Family Art Time at the Irvine Fine Arts Center. 10 – 11:30 am.  Children and their parents can experiment with different art media with guidance from an instructor. Ages 5 and up, $8 fee.  To register, click HERE

Trail of Beauty at the Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach.  Free, self-guided walk for families anytime between 10 am – 3 pm. Follow the trail and read inspirational quotes along the way.

Family Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  10:30 am.  For kids ages 3 – 5.

Free craft at Lakeshore Learning Center in Laguna Hills or Fountain Valley.  11 am – 3 pm.

“Animal Art” Kids Program at the OC Zoo in Orange.  11 am – noon.  Activities and crafts for kids age 5-8.  Event fee – $5 per child.  Parking fee – $3.  Registration required – call Marcy Crede-Booth at 714-973-6847

Lego Block Party at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport.  For elementary school-aged children.  3 pm.

Free outdoor concert at Woodbridge Community Park in Irvine.  Bring a picnic and comfy chairs.  5:30 – 7:30 pm.  ”Gregg Young and the 2nd Street Band”.

Movies on the Beach at Newport Dunes in Newport Beach. “Cats and Dogs”.  Bring your lawn chairs.  Free admission, parking $10.  Movie begins at sunset.

Astronomy Night at the Muth Interpretive Center in Newport Beach.  Free, but donation of $2 per participant is suggested.  Pre-registration required.  Open to all ages.

24th – Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  2 pm.

Concerts in the Park at Sea Terrace Park in Dana Point – Sapadilla (Calypso).  4:30 – 6 pm

25th - Books and Babies at the Central Branch Library in Newport. For infants ages 6 – 24 months.  9:30 – 10 am and 10:30 – 11 am.

Morning Storytime at the El Modena Branch Library in Orange.  For kids ages 5 and under.  10:30 am.

Manic Mondays Craft Program at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  For kids in First through Sixth Grade.  Presented by teen volunteers.  2 pm.

Face painting at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport. 3 – 4 pm.

Pajama Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport.  For kids ages 3 – 7.  7 – 7:30 pm.

26th – Family Storytime at the San Clemente Library.  9:30 am.

David Cousins Juggling Show at the Central Branch Library Friends Room in Newport.  Offered twice:  10 am – 11 am and noon – 1 pm.

Toddler Storytime at the RSM Public Library.  For kids ages 18 months – 3 years.  10:15 am.

Preschool Storytime at the  Mariners and Balboa Branch Libraries in Newport.  For kids ages 3 – 5. 10:30 am.

Books and Babies at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  For infants ages 6 – 24 months.  10:30 am.

Morning Storytime at the Taft Branch Library in Orange.  For kids ages 5 and under.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Fountain Valley Library.  For kids ages 2 – 5.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Foothill Ranch Library.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Garden Grove Chapman Library.  For kids ages 18 months – 2 years.  11:15 am.

Preschool Storytime at the SJC Library.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  11:15 am.

Toddler Storytime “Stay and Play” at the Seal Beach/Mary Wilson Library.  Older siblings welcome.  11:15 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Los Alamitos/Rossmoor Library.  For kids ages 2 – 5.  11:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Foothill Ranch Library.  For kids ages 1 – 3.  11:30 am.

Grandparents and Books at the Oak View Branch Library in Huntington.  2 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Family Storytime at the Donald Dungan Branch Library in Costa Mesa.  For kids of all ages and their families.  2 pm.

Grandparents and Books at the Main Street Branch Library in Huntington.  3 pm.  For kids of all ages.

Exotic Animal Show at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  3:30 pm.

Award-winning book club discussion at the Brea Library.  For kids in Grades 3 – 8.  3:30 pm.

Concerts in the Park at Fairview Park in Costa Mesa – Flattop Tom and His Jumpcats (Swing, Blues and Oldies).  5:30 pm.

Tuesdays in the Garden at the Fullerton Arboretum.  6 – 7:30 pm.  ”Who Goes There?” -Get the scoop on animal poop and tracks, and learn all about the animals by the clues they leave behind.  $5 per family, registration appreciated by Monday before the program – call 657-278-3407.

Pajama Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  6:30 pm.

Family Storytime at the La Habra Library.  7 pm.

Family Storytime at the Stanton Library.  7 pm.

Pajama Storytime at the Tustin Library.  For kids ages 3 – 6.  7 pm.

27th - Toddler Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport.  Offered twice:  9:30 – 10 am and 10:30 – 11 am.  For kids ages 2 – 3 and their parents (no older siblings, please)

Toddler Storytime at the Main Street Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids ages 1 – 3.  10 – 10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Garden Grove/West Branch Library.  For infants to 3 1/2 year olds.  10:30 am.

Family Reading time at the Ladera Ranch Library.  Come read with teen volunteers.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  10:30 am.  For kids age newborn – 2 and an adult.

Preschool Storytime at the Main Street Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids ages 3 – 5.  11 – 11:30 am.

Books and Babies at the Mariners and Balboa Branch Libraries in Newport. For infants ages 6 – 24 months.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the CDM Branch Library in Newport. For kids ages 3 – 5.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Garden Grove Library. For kids ages 3 – 5.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the El Toro Library in Lake Forest.  For kids ages 3 – 5.  1:30 pm.

Grandparents and Books at the Oak View Branch Library in Huntington.  2 pm.  For kids of all ages.

David Cousins Juggling Show at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport.  Offered twice:  2 pm – 3 pm and 4 pm – 5 pm.

Concerts in the Park at Peppertree Park in Tustin – West Coast Strayz (Classic Rock).  6-8 pm.

Family movie night at the Donald Dungan Branch Library in Costa Mesa.  6:30 pm.  Free.  Tickets available up to 30 minutes prior to the show.

Concerts in the Park at Fullerton Sports Complex in Fullerton – The James Harman Band (Blues).  6:30 – 8:30 pm.

Pajama Storytime at the Mesa Verde Branch Library in Costa Mesa.  For kids ages 3 – 8.  7 pm.

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  8 pm.

28th – Drop in Crafts all day at the CDM Library in Newport.

“What’s For Lunch” Toddler Program at the OC Zoo in Orange.  10 – 11 am.  Activities and crafts for kids age 3-4.  Event fee – $5 per child.  Parking fee – $3.  Registration required – call Marcy Crede-Booth at 714-973-6847

Hullabaloo live music concert for kids at the Ladera Ranch Library.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport. For kids ages 3 – 5.  10:30 am.

Toddler Storytime at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport. For kids ages 2 – 3.  10:30 am. (no older siblings, please)

Toddler Storytime at the Banning Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids age 1 – 3.  10 – 10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  10:30 am.  For kids ages 3 – 5.

Summer Reading Program entertainment at the San Clemente Library.  10:30 am.

“Tideland Tykes” at the Muth Interpretive Center in Newport Beach.  10:30 am.  For ages 2 – 8.  Crafts, storytelling and a nature walk.  $5 per child, pre-registration required.

Preschool Storytime at the Banning Branch Library in Huntington.  For kids age 3 – 5.  11 – 11:30 am.

David Cousins Juggling Show at the Balboa Branch Library in Newport.  11 am.

Family Film Festival at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  Come watch a family-friendly movie in the air-conditioned community room.  2 pm.

Grandparents and Books at the Banning Branch Library in Huntington.  3 pm.  For kids of all ages.

“Cool Summer Nights” at the Shipley Nature Center in Huntington.  Every Thursday in July and August, come enjoy the nature center free from 4 – 8 pm.  Special programs included.  Donations are welcome.

Movies in the Park at Heritage Park in Tustin – Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs.  Begins at dusk.

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  8 pm.

29th - Toddler Storytime at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  10:30 am.

Grandparents and Books at the Oak View Branch Library in Huntington.  2 pm.  For kids of all ages.

David Cousins Juggler Show at the CDM Branch Library in Newport.  3 pm.

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  8 pm.

30th – Family Art Time at the Irvine Fine Arts Center. 10 – 11:30 am.  Children and their parents can experiment with different art media with guidance from an instructor. Ages 5 and up, $8 fee.  To register, click HERE

Family Storytime at the Central Branch Library in Newport.  10:30 am.

Preschool Storytime at the Orange Public Library in Orange.  10:30 am.  For kids ages 3 – 5.

Free craft at Lakeshore Learning Center in Laguna Hills or Fountain Valley.  11 am – 3 pm.

“The Art of Nature” presented by OCMA at the Center for Living Peace in Irvine. Come practice the principles of sculpture with your child or children.  $12 per person or $10 per person for families of 3 or more.  1 – 3 pm.

Lego Block Party at the Mariners Branch Library in Newport.  For elementary school-aged children.  3 pm.

Concerts in the Park at Civic Center Green in Cypress – Raymond Michael (Elvis tribute).  6 pm.

Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  8 pm.

31st – Huntington Beach Playhouse presents “Seussical the Musical” at the Central Library Theater.  2 pm.

Target Symphony in the Cities Musical Playground at Woodbridge Community Park in Irvine – performance by the Pacific Symphony and interactive activities for kids.  5:30 – 7:30 pm.

Concerts in the Park at Bonita Canyon Sports Park in Newport Beach.  The Gregg Young 2nd Street Band.  6 pm.

Concerts in the Park at Sea Terrace Park in Dana Point – The Amazing Wildcats (50’s).  4:30 – 6 pm

Image courtesy of ChicagoFreeEvents.com

26
Jun
2011

Michael’s Jar of Crafts

Have you seen the Giant Jar of Crafts at Michael’s? I bought one for my daughter, and it has provided HOURS of entertainment!

I love toys and activities that inspire creative, original thought. This bucket certainly fits the bill. It’s a large plastic bucket filled with all sorts of trinkets for crafting – buttons, beads, crepe paper, foam balls, pipe cleaners, popsicle sticks, and more.  It even comes with scissors and glue.  Oh, and the best part…it’s only $9.99! And there is a coupon right now for 50% off, so you can pick it up for only $5. Seriously, how can you beat that?

So far, my daughter has used it to make a caterpillar habitat in a box, a lizard nest, and bracelets that she is selling to raise money for the local animal shelter.  And the jar is still nearly full!

It’s a great thing to have on hand for a rainy day, a playdate, or even to give as a birthday gift.

You can see more details HERE, and get a 50% off Michael’s coupon (good through June 18th, so you need to use it soon!) HERE.

Happy Crafting!

16
Jun
2011

Fun Game for Mealtime

Mealtime at our house is very important to me.  It’s the one time during the day where the three of us get to sit down and spend uninterrupted time together. Usually, we talk about our day – what we learned, funny stories, highs and lows of the day.  Sometimes, though, by the time we sit down, everyone is kind of tired and not super talkative.  Or we share all about our days in five minutes, and then can’t thing of anything else to talk about.  I know, for those of you with more than one child, it’s kind of hard to imagine a quiet dinnertime!  But for us, it happens more often than I’d like to admit.

So, to help bust mealtime boredom, we like to find a fun game to play.  The challenge is that the game can’t really have “pieces” to it – no gameboard, dice to roll, etc.  It has to be fairly simple.

Hedbanz certainly fits the bill.  Real OC Daughter received this game as a birthday gift, and we’ve decided it makes a great mealtime game.  The premise is that you put on an adjustable headband, tuck a card into it that you can’t see but everyone else can, and use questions to try to figure out what your card is. It’s pretty silly, and leads to lots of giggling.  The last time we played it, I was “scissors”, and boy, did that take me FOREVER to figure out!

It’s a great conversation starter, or for those of you with multiple kids and are tired of mealtime squabbles, this works, too. Plus, it’s good for any age – the cards have a picture and the word, so you don’t have to be able to read.  So, if you’re looking for a fun game the whole family will enjoy, that’s also great for dinnertime, I highly recommend Hedbanz.

25
May
2011

Real Tip Tuesday – Drugstore.com Coupon

Have you ever shopped at Drugstore.com?  They have all the basics you need for your family, from shampoo to toothpaste to sunscreen and more.  And right now, for new customers, they have an amazing deal – spend $25, get free shipping, AND a $50 voucher for Restaurants.com!  Now really, how can you beat that?!?  Stock up on some essentials (they have lots of sun products on sale right now), have them shipped straight to your door with no shipping charge (and you’re saving gas money!), and get a voucher to use at a local restaurant.  Maybe a date night for you and hubs?  Or dinner out on a night when you’re too busy to cook? 

drugstore.com

To take advantage of this amazing offer, click HERE

17
May
2011